FRISCO, Texas (AP) — There are no official Big 12 predictions going into this season, so there will be no last-to-first narrative like what Arizona State had in its league debut.

Going into its 30th football season, the Big 12 didn't conduct a preseason media poll predicting the order of finish for the 16-team conference. The results were way off last year.

“I try to ignore it as best I can,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said Tuesday at Big 12 media days. “It’s one of the reasons we as coaches did not do a coaches poll because I think the narrative has really hurt our league. I know it hurt Arizona State and I know it hurt BYU last year.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-championship-score-45a03c18f90e196ef6e24670e17ee178">Arizona State won the Big 12 championship</a>&nbsp;game last season after being picked to finish at the bottom of the Big 12 standings. The Sun Devils were in a four-way tie for first place in the regular-season standings, beat Iowa State in the title game and were the only league team to make the College Football Playoff.

Sun Devils coach Kenny Dillingham said he couldn't care less about any of the predictions last year, or what anybody might have guessed for this season. They do have back quarterback Sam Leavitt, who was picked as the league's preseason offensive player of the year since media still voted on a&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2025/7/6/big-12-announces-2025-preseason-all-conference-football-team.aspx">preseason All-Big 12 team</a>.

“I don’t really care where people put us. Vote us first, vote us last, vote us in the middle. If we’re so focused on other people’s expectations of us, then you’re going to limit yourself,” Dillingham said Tuesday. “Who knows? Are we supposed to win six games? Are we supposed to win nine games? Are we supposed to go undefeated? Are we supposed to win zero? ... All I know is when we show up to work, we should be the very best version of ourselves. And if we compete in something, you better compete to win.”

BYU was picked to finish 13th in the Big 12, and was part of that four-way tie at the end of the regular season with 7-2 conference records. The Cougars finished 11-2 overall, including a 9-0 start in which they had an early win over ACC newcomer SMU, which made the 12-team playoff field even after losing its conference championship game.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-yormark-cfp-f2e97ef7c5e4c2848df5514309db9104">Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark</a>&nbsp;said there's no value to such preseason football polls, especially with the ever-changing landscape in the game these days. He felt Arizona State was disadvantaged because of being picked 16th long before even playing its first game.

“With the transfer portal and with roster management and what goes on as you build that roster, no one knows what they really have. They know what they have on paper, but it hasn’t played out,” Yormark said. “And that was the case with Arizona State last year. So I don’t know if it’s a trend or not but certainly it’s the right thing for the Big 12 and I’m glad we did it.”

The Big Ten Conference has long forgone doing preseason polls.

Arizona State went into the Big 12 title game last December at 15th in the CFP rankings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-yormark-cfp-rankings-rant-e16daf082149313f9cc8641118c178cf">behind three SEC teams with three losses</a>&nbsp;and Mountain West Conference champion Boise State. The Sun Devils were then 12th in the final CFP rankings, but got a first-round bye as one of the top four-ranked conference champions before the format changed for this season to more-direct seeding.

A series of tiebreakers had put Arizona State and Iowa State in the Big 12 title game, and eliminated BYU and Colorado from title contention.

Utah, which like Arizona State made its Big 12 debut last year, was the preseason favorite to win the league. The Utes won all three of their non-conference games, but went 2-7 otherwise to finish near the bottom of the Big 12 standings.

Oklahoma State was last after going 0-9 in conference play. The Cowboys had been picked third.

The Big 12 season will open Aug. 23 with Kansas State playing Iowa State in Ireland.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-tcu-football-ireland-belichick-efcca9bb2490629f514a683ccec86b6d">TCU will play its 2026 season opener there</a>&nbsp;against North Carolina.

“I’ve been on the record to say that I want this conference to be a global conference," said Yormark, who is going into his fourth year as Big 12 commissioner. “I think we can win globally big time. Playing in Ireland obviously is that first step.”

Football isn't the league's only sport going international for a league in which Yormark said 11% of the student-athletes are from outside the United States.

“Just from a recruitment standpoint, it makes sense to carry that flag outside of the domestic marketplace,” he said.

Baylor's women's basketball team will open the upcoming season in Paris. Yormark said there is a good chance of a baseball game in Mexico City next spring, and that there are conversations about events in other international markets, like Germany.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752072199712.jpeg" alt="Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman speaks during Big 12 NCAA college football media days in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman speaks during Big 12 NCAA college football media days in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)</figcaption>
 </figure>FRISCO, Texas (AP) — There are no official Big 12 predictions going into this season, so there will be no last-to-first narrative like what Arizona State had in its league debut.Going into its 30th football season, the Big 12 didn't conduct a preseason media poll predicting the order of finish for the 16-team conference. The results were way off last year.“I try to ignore it as best I can,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said Tuesday at Big 12 media days. “It’s one of the reasons we as coaches did not do a coaches poll because I think the narrative has really hurt our league. I know it hurt Arizona State and I know it hurt BYU last year.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-championship-score-45a03c18f90e196ef6e24670e17ee178">Arizona State won the Big 12 championship</a>&nbsp;game last season after being picked to finish at the bottom of the Big 12 standings. The Sun Devils were in a four-way tie for first place in the regular-season standings, beat Iowa State in the title game and were the only league team to make the College Football Playoff.Sun Devils coach Kenny Dillingham said he couldn't care less about any of the predictions last year, or what anybody might have guessed for this season. They do have back quarterback Sam Leavitt, who was picked as the league's preseason offensive player of the year since media still voted on a&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/news/2025/7/6/big-12-announces-2025-preseason-all-conference-football-team.aspx">preseason All-Big 12 team</a>.“I don’t really care where people put us. Vote us first, vote us last, vote us in the middle. If we’re so focused on other people’s expectations of us, then you’re going to limit yourself,” Dillingham said Tuesday. “Who knows? Are we supposed to win six games? Are we supposed to win nine games? Are we supposed to go undefeated? Are we supposed to win zero? ... All I know is when we show up to work, we should be the very best version of ourselves. And if we compete in something, you better compete to win.”BYU was picked to finish 13th in the Big 12, and was part of that four-way tie at the end of the regular season with 7-2 conference records. The Cougars finished 11-2 overall, including a 9-0 start in which they had an early win over ACC newcomer SMU, which made the 12-team playoff field even after losing its conference championship game.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-yormark-cfp-f2e97ef7c5e4c2848df5514309db9104">Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark</a>&nbsp;said there's no value to such preseason football polls, especially with the ever-changing landscape in the game these days. He felt Arizona State was disadvantaged because of being picked 16th long before even playing its first game.“With the transfer portal and with roster management and what goes on as you build that roster, no one knows what they really have. They know what they have on paper, but it hasn’t played out,” Yormark said. “And that was the case with Arizona State last year. So I don’t know if it’s a trend or not but certainly it’s the right thing for the Big 12 and I’m glad we did it.”The Big Ten Conference has long forgone doing preseason polls.Arizona State went into the Big 12 title game last December at 15th in the CFP rankings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-yormark-cfp-rankings-rant-e16daf082149313f9cc8641118c178cf">behind three SEC teams with three losses</a>&nbsp;and Mountain West Conference champion Boise State. The Sun Devils were then 12th in the final CFP rankings, but got a first-round bye as one of the top four-ranked conference champions before the format changed for this season to more-direct seeding.A series of tiebreakers had put Arizona State and Iowa State in the Big 12 title game, and eliminated BYU and Colorado from title contention.Utah, which like Arizona State made its Big 12 debut last year, was the preseason favorite to win the league. The Utes won all three of their non-conference games, but went 2-7 otherwise to finish near the bottom of the Big 12 standings.Oklahoma State was last after going 0-9 in conference play. The Cowboys had been picked third.<h2>Global stages</h2>The Big 12 season will open Aug. 23 with Kansas State playing Iowa State in Ireland.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-tcu-football-ireland-belichick-efcca9bb2490629f514a683ccec86b6d">TCU will play its 2026 season opener there</a>&nbsp;against North Carolina.“I’ve been on the record to say that I want this conference to be a global conference," said Yormark, who is going into his fourth year as Big 12 commissioner. “I think we can win globally big time. Playing in Ireland obviously is that first step.”Football isn't the league's only sport going international for a league in which Yormark said 11% of the student-athletes are from outside the United States.“Just from a recruitment standpoint, it makes sense to carry that flag outside of the domestic marketplace,” he said.Baylor's women's basketball team will open the upcoming season in Paris. Yormark said there is a good chance of a baseball game in Mexico City next spring, and that there are conversations about events in other international markets, like Germany.

Big 12 making no official predictions, so no last-to-first narrative this year like Arizona State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Mark Canha on the 10-day injured list with a left elbow injury Tuesday.

Canha is in his first season with the Royals after being acquired in a trade during spring training. He’s hitting .212 with a .537 OPS in 46 games this season.

Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said Canha’s injury doesn’t appear to be serious.

“I did some research,” he said. “Epicondylitis is ‘tennis elbow tendinitis.’ It’s been bothering him for a week or so. He thought he’d work through it and turn the corner a little bit. But a couple of swings yesterday really aggravated it, and he’s more sore. He knew he wasn’t going to be able to put good swings on the ball.”

In a corresponding move, infielder Cam Devanney was selected from Triple-A Omaha. He will make his MLB debut in his first appearance with the club, though he was not in the starting lineup Tuesday.

To make room on the 40-man roster, left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans was transferred to the 60-day IL. He has been on the IL since June 11 with a left rotator cuff strain.

Quatraro said Ragans' move was strictly “procedural.”

“It gives us a roster spot to call up,” he continued. “He’s not going to be back by that date (when he's eligible to return from the 60-day list), so there was no risk for us to do that. And it gives us the 40-man spot.”

Ragans has had injuries all season after a 2024 season that saw him reach his first All-Star Game and finish fourth in the AL Cy Young voting.

Ragans said this move won't affect his return to the Royals rotation.

“That’s a month away,” he said. “I started throwing yesterday, so I don’t really have a full timeline, but it’ll be a lot further into the throwing progression. We needed a roster spot, and that made sense. It literally does not change anything on how I come back, or when I come back.”

For Devanney, it's a dream come true. He said his parents, his sister and a couple of friends who could get off work will be in attendance.

“I think they’re getting here about an hour before game time, so it’s gonna be a little close," he said. "But I think they’re gonna make it.”

In 69 games with Omaha, he's batting .272 with 18 home runs and 55 RBIs.

“It’s surreal, man, I’m still processing,” he said. “I think you survive in this game (by) being adaptable and versatile. I understand the dynamic up here and what they’re looking for, so I’m just trying to fit their needs.”

Quatraro complimented Devanney's versatility.

“Cam's had a great year in Triple-A,” Quatraro said. “He had a good year last year. He’s played really well in the infield. He’s played some outfield as well. So his versatility and another right-handed bat was something we were looking for. He could be a versatile player off the bench, which is what he’ll be tonight, but we’re not going to be afraid to play him either.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752061333584.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Mark Canha watches his force out to score a run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Mark Canha watches his force out to score a run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Mark Canha on the 10-day injured list with a left elbow injury Tuesday.Canha is in his first season with the Royals after being acquired in a trade during spring training. He’s hitting .212 with a .537 OPS in 46 games this season.Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said Canha’s injury doesn’t appear to be serious.“I did some research,” he said. “Epicondylitis is ‘tennis elbow tendinitis.’ It’s been bothering him for a week or so. He thought he’d work through it and turn the corner a little bit. But a couple of swings yesterday really aggravated it, and he’s more sore. He knew he wasn’t going to be able to put good swings on the ball.”In a corresponding move, infielder Cam Devanney was selected from Triple-A Omaha. He will make his MLB debut in his first appearance with the club, though he was not in the starting lineup Tuesday.To make room on the 40-man roster, left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans was transferred to the 60-day IL. He has been on the IL since June 11 with a left rotator cuff strain.Quatraro said Ragans' move was strictly “procedural.”“It gives us a roster spot to call up,” he continued. “He’s not going to be back by that date (when he's eligible to return from the 60-day list), so there was no risk for us to do that. And it gives us the 40-man spot.”Ragans has had injuries all season after a 2024 season that saw him reach his first All-Star Game and finish fourth in the AL Cy Young voting.Ragans said this move won't affect his return to the Royals rotation.“That’s a month away,” he said. “I started throwing yesterday, so I don’t really have a full timeline, but it’ll be a lot further into the throwing progression. We needed a roster spot, and that made sense. It literally does not change anything on how I come back, or when I come back.”For Devanney, it's a dream come true. He said his parents, his sister and a couple of friends who could get off work will be in attendance.“I think they’re getting here about an hour before game time, so it’s gonna be a little close," he said. "But I think they’re gonna make it.”In 69 games with Omaha, he's batting .272 with 18 home runs and 55 RBIs.“It’s surreal, man, I’m still processing,” he said. “I think you survive in this game (by) being adaptable and versatile. I understand the dynamic up here and what they’re looking for, so I’m just trying to fit their needs.”Quatraro complimented Devanney's versatility.“Cam's had a great year in Triple-A,” Quatraro said. “He had a good year last year. He’s played really well in the infield. He’s played some outfield as well. So his versatility and another right-handed bat was something we were looking for. He could be a versatile player off the bench, which is what he’ll be tonight, but we’re not going to be afraid to play him either.”

⚾ Royals outfielder Mark Canha placed on 10-day IL with left elbow injury

The Hays Larks are on the road for the final time in 2025 as they travel to Augusta to take on the Kansas Cannons in a non-league contest Tuesday.

The first pitch is set for 7 p.m. from Augusta High School

You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks are on the road for the final time in 2025 as they travel to Augusta to take on the Kansas Cannons in a non-league contest Tuesday.The first pitch is set for 7 p.m. from Augusta High SchoolYou can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks on the road at Kansas Cannons

FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark is doubling down on his preference to stay with only five automatic qualifiers if the College Football Playoff does expand from 12 to 16 teams as many expect after this season, instead of each of the four power conferences being guaranteed multiple bids.

“We have the responsibility to do what’s right for college football ... not what's right for one or two or more conferences,” Yormark said Tuesday at Big 12 football media days. “I think 5-11 is fair. Earn it on the field, assuming we want to expand. I love the current format, but if we’re going to expand, let’s do it in a way that’s fair and equitable and gives everyone a chance.”

While the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten will have more of a say on the playoff format starting in 2026, when ESPN's $7.8 billion contract kicks in, Yormark believes the 5-11 format would be good for now and in the future. He said ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips feels the same way, and is expected to express that during his league's media days in two weeks.

“We do not need a professional model because we are not the NFL,” Yormark said. "We are college football and we must act like it."

In the 12-team format still in place for this season, the five highest-ranked conference champions are guaranteed spots in the playoff. The difference this year is that the top four highest-ranked champions are no longer guaranteed the top four seeds that come with first-round byes.

Among potential 16-team formats would be four automatic qualifiers from both the SEC and Big Ten, and two each for the Big 12 and ACC. The Big 12 last season had only conference champion Arizona State make the playoff last season.

“We want to earn it on the field," Yormark said. “It might not be the best solution today for the Big 12, given your comments about (automatic qualifiers), but long term, knowing the progress we’re making, the investments we’re making, it’s the right format for us.”

Yormark, who is going into his fourth year as Big 12 commissioner, believes that the landmark NCAA House settlement will have a positive impact for all conferences, especially if the College Sports Commission works the way it is intended in enforcing the rules in the remade system.

“It will. I have a lot of faith in Bryan Seely,” Yormark said of the former Major League Baseball executive named CEO of the new CSC. “It should create a level playing field, and I'm not giving that up.”

The Big 12 was already in transition and still at 10 teams when Yormark arrived in 2022. BYU, Cincinnati, Houston and UCF joined the league the following year.

Texas and Oklahoma, who won football national championships while in the Big 12, completed their long-planned move to the SEC last year. That is when Pac-12 schools Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah came into what is now a 16-team Big 12.

"I think parity matters, and I think ultimately over time, and that’s hopefully sooner than later, there’ll be a couple of our schools that will emerge, you know, as elite schools that are always part of the conversations at the highest levels. And that’s what we’re working towards,” Yormark said. “But it starts with parity and being competitive top to bottom. And I think we’re there.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752066475109.jpeg" alt="Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark speaks at the Big 12 NCAA college football media days in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)" />
 <figcaption>Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark speaks at the Big 12 NCAA college football media days in Frisco, Texas, Tuesday, July 8, 2025. (AP Photo/LM Otero)</figcaption>
 </figure>FRISCO, Texas (AP) — Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark is doubling down on his preference to stay with only five automatic qualifiers if the College Football Playoff does expand from 12 to 16 teams as many expect after this season, instead of each of the four power conferences being guaranteed multiple bids.“We have the responsibility to do what’s right for college football ... not what's right for one or two or more conferences,” Yormark said Tuesday at Big 12 football media days. “I think 5-11 is fair. Earn it on the field, assuming we want to expand. I love the current format, but if we’re going to expand, let’s do it in a way that’s fair and equitable and gives everyone a chance.”While the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten will have more of a say on the playoff format starting in 2026, when ESPN's $7.8 billion contract kicks in, Yormark believes the 5-11 format would be good for now and in the future. He said ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips feels the same way, and is expected to express that during his league's media days in two weeks.“We do not need a professional model because we are not the NFL,” Yormark said. "We are college football and we must act like it."In the 12-team format still in place for this season, the five highest-ranked conference champions are guaranteed spots in the playoff. The difference this year is that the top four highest-ranked champions are no longer guaranteed the top four seeds that come with first-round byes.Among potential 16-team formats would be four automatic qualifiers from both the SEC and Big Ten, and two each for the Big 12 and ACC. The Big 12 last season had only conference champion Arizona State make the playoff last season.“We want to earn it on the field," Yormark said. “It might not be the best solution today for the Big 12, given your comments about (automatic qualifiers), but long term, knowing the progress we’re making, the investments we’re making, it’s the right format for us.”Yormark, who is going into his fourth year as Big 12 commissioner, believes that the landmark NCAA House settlement will have a positive impact for all conferences, especially if the College Sports Commission works the way it is intended in enforcing the rules in the remade system.“It will. I have a lot of faith in Bryan Seely,” Yormark said of the former Major League Baseball executive named CEO of the new CSC. “It should create a level playing field, and I'm not giving that up.”The Big 12 was already in transition and still at 10 teams when Yormark arrived in 2022. BYU, Cincinnati, Houston and UCF joined the league the following year.Texas and Oklahoma, who won football national championships while in the Big 12, completed their long-planned move to the SEC last year. That is when Pac-12 schools Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah came into what is now a 16-team Big 12."I think parity matters, and I think ultimately over time, and that’s hopefully sooner than later, there’ll be a couple of our schools that will emerge, you know, as elite schools that are always part of the conversations at the highest levels. And that’s what we’re working towards,” Yormark said. “But it starts with parity and being competitive top to bottom. And I think we’re there.”

🏈 Big 12 commissioner doubles down on preference for 5-11 playoff model if CFP expands

INDIANAPOLIS — High school baseball teams across the country will be required to use a double first base beginning with the 2027 season, following a rules change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The NFHS Baseball Rules Committee proposed the revision during its annual meeting June 8-10 in Indianapolis. It was one of 10 rule changes accepted by the NFHS Board of Directors aimed at improving player safety and game flow.

The new rule, added as Rule 1-2-9, requires a double first base with a white and a contrasting colored portion. The white half must be placed in fair territory, while the colored portion lies in foul territory, divided by the foul line. The two parts must be adjacent with no gap between them.

Additional rules, including Rule 8-2-2a, outline how the double base is to be used. Batter-runners are expected to use the colored half on plays at first base unless a fielder moves into foul territory to receive a throw, in which case the white portion may be used. Batter-runners must return to the white base when leading off or tagging up. The rule also addresses interference and obstruction involving improper use of the double base during collisions.

Other changes include updates to Rule 2-5-1h and Rule 2-16-1h to clarify when a batted ball is fair or foul based on contact with either portion of the base.

The committee also approved a new restriction on defensive meetings under Rule 3-4-6. Teams are allowed one player-to-player meeting per half-inning, defined in Rule 2-10-3 as a discussion involving two or more defensive players. Additional meetings will be denied by umpires.

Uniform rules were also updated. Beginning in 2027, schools may include a name, logo, mascot or nickname on the uniform top or pants under Rule 1-4-4. Additionally, Rule 1-6-3 now prohibits players from wearing any audio or video recording devices during a game.

A full list of changes is available on the NFHS website at <a href="https://nfhs.org/">www.nfhs.org</a>.

Baseball remains one of the most popular high school sports nationwide, with 471,701 boys participating at 16,146 schools, according to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey.

INDIANAPOLIS — High school baseball teams across the country will be required to use a double first base beginning with the 2027 season, following a rules change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.The NFHS Baseball Rules Committee proposed the revision during its annual meeting June 8-10 in Indianapolis. It was one of 10 rule changes accepted by the NFHS Board of Directors aimed at improving player safety and game flow.The new rule, added as Rule 1-2-9, requires a double first base with a white and a contrasting colored portion. The white half must be placed in fair territory, while the colored portion lies in foul territory, divided by the foul line. The two parts must be adjacent with no gap between them.Additional rules, including Rule 8-2-2a, outline how the double base is to be used. Batter-runners are expected to use the colored half on plays at first base unless a fielder moves into foul territory to receive a throw, in which case the white portion may be used. Batter-runners must return to the white base when leading off or tagging up. The rule also addresses interference and obstruction involving improper use of the double base during collisions.Other changes include updates to Rule 2-5-1h and Rule 2-16-1h to clarify when a batted ball is fair or foul based on contact with either portion of the base.The committee also approved a new restriction on defensive meetings under Rule 3-4-6. Teams are allowed one player-to-player meeting per half-inning, defined in Rule 2-10-3 as a discussion involving two or more defensive players. Additional meetings will be denied by umpires.Uniform rules were also updated. Beginning in 2027, schools may include a name, logo, mascot or nickname on the uniform top or pants under Rule 1-4-4. Additionally, Rule 1-6-3 now prohibits players from wearing any audio or video recording devices during a game.A full list of changes is available on the NFHS website at <a href="https://nfhs.org/">www.nfhs.org</a>.Baseball remains one of the most popular high school sports nationwide, with 471,701 boys participating at 16,146 schools, according to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey.

⚾ NFHS to require double first base in high school baseball starting in 2027

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp;

Tuesday, July 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pm

Wednesday, July 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pm

Friday, July 11 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 6:30pm

Saturday, July 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 2:30pm

Sunday, July 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 12:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; Tuesday, July 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pmWednesday, July 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pmThursday, July 10 noneFriday, July 11 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 6:30pmSaturday, July 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 2:30pmSunday, July 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 12:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By TIM CARPENTER Kansas Reflector

TOPEKA — A bipartisan council of Kansas lawmakers voted Monday to extend by six months the deadline for the Missouri-based Kansas City Royals or the Kansas City Chiefs to accept economic development incentives from Kansas for construction of sports stadiums.

The Legislative Coordinating Council unanimously agreed to grant the reprieve so the Kansas Department of Commerce could present options for stadium deals to the LCC until Dec. 31, 2025.

A 2024 law that set the framework for issuance of STAR bonds to cover 70% of construction costs for one or both stadiums and support structures had a deadline of June 30, 2025. The statute gave the LCC authority to add another year to the timeline.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, recommended adoption of a six-month alternative for the presentation of formal proposals by the Department of Commerce to the LCC. He said he didn’t want the stadium issue to bleed into the 2026 session of the Legislature, which would convene in early January.

“We have had this law out there for a year now and each team has had a year to come to some type of conclusion,” Hawkins said. “Neither team has and quite frankly for the last month and a half, I have been very consistent across the board saying, ‘Let’s get it done.’ ”

He said he was persuaded to endorse a half-year extension because one of the teams waited from November to February for responses from the administration of Gov. Laura Kelly. Also, he said, the Kelly administration didn’t answer a proposal from a team — previously reported to be the Chiefs — for seven weeks.

“It doesn’t matter what team it was. That’s not fair to the teams, when they’re making proposals and they’re not getting responses back,” said Hawkins, who is a candidate for state insurance commissioner.

The LCC adopted the six-month extension but also voted to broaden the window of opportunity for stadium deals with Kansas to June 30, 2026. That could be a technicality, because the LCC could decide on behalf of the full House and Senate not to consider recommendations submitted after that date.

Missouri offered to finance up to 50% of the cost to renovate or build new stadiums for the Royals and Chiefs. Both franchises have played at a Jackson County, Missouri, complex since the early 1970s.

Sen. Tim Shallenberger, a Baxter Springs Republican serving as the Senate’s vice president, said he didn’t want to force the Chiefs or Royals to abruptly wrap up a deal with Kansas.

“When I was younger, I was a banker,” Shallenberger said. “Putting a deal like this together is not easy. You have landowners that look at the deadlines that we put out and use that as leverage. You have the teams look at the deadlines we put out and use that as leverage. Approved by the LCC by this December seems a little quick to me.

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, convened the LCC meeting because he recently observed signs of progress during confidential negotiations involving the Chiefs.

“We weren’t interested in being a pawn and extending for no reason at all,” Masterson said. “The sense was as long as there’s legitimate, real conversations about the possibility of that relationship … we could move forward.”

Chiefs president Mark Donovan asked Kansas lawmakers to amend the deadline to continue negotiations with Kansas on building a stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and related business developments.

In the correspondence, Donovan said complexity, importance and scale of the project made it clear “more time is needed to bring the effort to full fruition.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751970881185.png" alt="Renowned sports architect David Manica shared renderings of a potential Kansas City, Kan., stadium development for the Kansas City Chiefs.(MANICA)" />
 <figcaption>Renowned sports architect David Manica shared renderings of a potential Kansas City, Kan., stadium development for the Kansas City Chiefs.(MANICA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER Kansas ReflectorTOPEKA — A bipartisan council of Kansas lawmakers voted Monday to extend by six months the deadline for the Missouri-based Kansas City Royals or the Kansas City Chiefs to accept economic development incentives from Kansas for construction of sports stadiums.The Legislative Coordinating Council unanimously agreed to grant the reprieve so the Kansas Department of Commerce could present options for stadium deals to the LCC until Dec. 31, 2025.A 2024 law that set the framework for issuance of STAR bonds to cover 70% of construction costs for one or both stadiums and support structures had a deadline of June 30, 2025. The statute gave the LCC authority to add another year to the timeline.House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, recommended adoption of a six-month alternative for the presentation of formal proposals by the Department of Commerce to the LCC. He said he didn’t want the stadium issue to bleed into the 2026 session of the Legislature, which would convene in early January.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751970834339.png" alt="House Speaker Dan Hawkins, shown hear speaking to members of the Kansas House, recommended to colleagues on the Legislative Coordinating Council to change the deadline to Dec. 31, 2025, for presentation by the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals of proposals to make use of STAR bonds to build new sports stadiums in Kansas. A 2024 law offering bonds to cover 70% of stadium costs expired June 30, 2025. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Dan Hawkins, shown hear speaking to members of the Kansas House, recommended to colleagues on the Legislative Coordinating Council to change the deadline to Dec. 31, 2025, for presentation by the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals of proposals to make use of STAR bonds to build new sports stadiums in Kansas. A 2024 law offering bonds to cover 70% of stadium costs expired June 30, 2025. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“We have had this law out there for a year now and each team has had a year to come to some type of conclusion,” Hawkins said. “Neither team has and quite frankly for the last month and a half, I have been very consistent across the board saying, ‘Let’s get it done.’ ”He said he was persuaded to endorse a half-year extension because one of the teams waited from November to February for responses from the administration of Gov. Laura Kelly. Also, he said, the Kelly administration didn’t answer a proposal from a team — previously reported to be the Chiefs — for seven weeks.“It doesn’t matter what team it was. That’s not fair to the teams, when they’re making proposals and they’re not getting responses back,” said Hawkins, who is a candidate for state insurance commissioner.The LCC adopted the six-month extension but also voted to broaden the window of opportunity for stadium deals with Kansas to June 30, 2026. That could be a technicality, because the LCC could decide on behalf of the full House and Senate not to consider recommendations submitted after that date.Missouri offered to finance up to 50% of the cost to renovate or build new stadiums for the Royals and Chiefs. Both franchises have played at a Jackson County, Missouri, complex since the early 1970s.Sen. Tim Shallenberger, a Baxter Springs Republican serving as the Senate’s vice president, said he didn’t want to force the Chiefs or Royals to abruptly wrap up a deal with Kansas.“When I was younger, I was a banker,” Shallenberger said. “Putting a deal like this together is not easy. You have landowners that look at the deadlines that we put out and use that as leverage. You have the teams look at the deadlines we put out and use that as leverage. Approved by the LCC by this December seems a little quick to me.Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, convened the LCC meeting because he recently observed signs of progress during confidential negotiations involving the Chiefs.“We weren’t interested in being a pawn and extending for no reason at all,” Masterson said. “The sense was as long as there’s legitimate, real conversations about the possibility of that relationship … we could move forward.”Chiefs president Mark Donovan asked Kansas lawmakers to amend the deadline to continue negotiations with Kansas on building a stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and related business developments.In the correspondence, Donovan said complexity, importance and scale of the project made it clear “more time is needed to bring the effort to full fruition.”

Kan. lawmakers extend deadline for Royals, Chiefs to accept stadium incentives

HAYS – Paul Smith had three hits and Thomas Lyssy drove in three runs to lead the Hays Larks to an 8-3 win over the Newton Rebels in a non-league game Monday night at Larks Park.

Lyssy’s two-run single highlighted a three-run third which gave the Larks a 3-1 lead. Hays (18-4-1) scored four in the fourth to blow the game open. Lane Sparks opened the inning with a walk then eventually stole home. Smith added a two-run single and Lyssy an RBI single to push the lead to 7-1.

Newton (6-20) scored two on a home run and sacrifice fly in the fifth to cut the lead to 7-3. The Larks tacked on a run on an RBI double from Jackson Babcock in the seventh.

Starter Jordan Stribling (1-1) allowed one run on one hit with four strikeouts and two walks over three innings and was awarded the win. Ryan Hanks gave up two runs on two hits over two innings of relief. Nolan Wilson and Dalton Campbell both pitched a scoreless inning then Julio Romas allowed one hit with a couple of strikeouts in the final two frames.

The Larks had 13 hits on the night and drew seven walks. Meanwhile their pitching staff struck out 13 Rebel batters while walking only two.

The Larks play their final road game of the season Tuesday in Augusta against the Kansas Cannons. They then return home Thursday to begin a 10-game homestand to close out the regular season.

There was only one league game Monday. The Denver Cougars defeated the Collegiate Roughriders 18-10. The Larks now have a four-game lead over the Roughriders in the RMBL standings.

Hays Post SportsHAYS – Paul Smith had three hits and Thomas Lyssy drove in three runs to lead the Hays Larks to an 8-3 win over the Newton Rebels in a non-league game Monday night at Larks Park.Lyssy’s two-run single highlighted a three-run third which gave the Larks a 3-1 lead. Hays (18-4-1) scored four in the fourth to blow the game open. Lane Sparks opened the inning with a walk then eventually stole home. Smith added a two-run single and Lyssy an RBI single to push the lead to 7-1.Newton (6-20) scored two on a home run and sacrifice fly in the fifth to cut the lead to 7-3. The Larks tacked on a run on an RBI double from Jackson Babcock in the seventh.Starter Jordan Stribling (1-1) allowed one run on one hit with four strikeouts and two walks over three innings and was awarded the win. Ryan Hanks gave up two runs on two hits over two innings of relief. Nolan Wilson and Dalton Campbell both pitched a scoreless inning then Julio Romas allowed one hit with a couple of strikeouts in the final two frames.The Larks had 13 hits on the night and drew seven walks. Meanwhile their pitching staff struck out 13 Rebel batters while walking only two.UP NEXTThe Larks play their final road game of the season Tuesday in Augusta against the Kansas Cannons. They then return home Thursday to begin a 10-game homestand to close out the regular season.AROUND THE RMBLThere was only one league game Monday. The Denver Cougars defeated the Collegiate Roughriders 18-10. The Larks now have a four-game lead over the Roughriders in the RMBL standings.

⚾ Larks pound out 13 hits in win over Rebels

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.

Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.

Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.

Witt finished off a seven-game trip Sunday by extending his club-record hitting streak on the road to 25 games.

<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942391158166151263">Perez hit his 11th</a>&nbsp;homer, a solo shot to left in the fifth for a five-run advantage. He hit his 24th double off the top of the wall in left to drive in a run for a 3-2 lead in the third.

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-out pitch from Andrew Heaney in the first for his 15th homer and a 1-0 lead. Nick Loftin hit his second, a one-out solo shot off Génesis Cabrera in the eighth. Heaney (4-8) threw 76 pitches and allowed four runs in three innings.

Pham's homer was his third. It snapped Pittsburgh's 30-inning scoreless streak and gave the Pirates a 2-1 lead.

Steven Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth and Jonathan Bowlan allowed Alexander Canario's RBI single in the ninth to finish for Kansas City.

Cameron didn't surrender a hit after Bryan Reynolds' leadoff single in the third.

The Royals hit more home runs in their first home game of July than they did in the month of June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751969887005.jpeg" alt="ansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates on second after hitting a one-run double during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>ansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates on second after hitting a one-run double during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.Witt finished off a seven-game trip Sunday by extending his club-record hitting streak on the road to 25 games.<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942391158166151263">Perez hit his 11th</a>&nbsp;homer, a solo shot to left in the fifth for a five-run advantage. He hit his 24th double off the top of the wall in left to drive in a run for a 3-2 lead in the third.Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-out pitch from Andrew Heaney in the first for his 15th homer and a 1-0 lead. Nick Loftin hit his second, a one-out solo shot off Génesis Cabrera in the eighth. Heaney (4-8) threw 76 pitches and allowed four runs in three innings.Pham's homer was his third. It snapped Pittsburgh's 30-inning scoreless streak and gave the Pirates a 2-1 lead.Steven Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth and Jonathan Bowlan allowed Alexander Canario's RBI single in the ninth to finish for Kansas City.<h2>Key moment</h2>Cameron didn't surrender a hit after Bryan Reynolds' leadoff single in the third.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals hit more home runs in their first home game of July than they did in the month of June.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Witt Jr. and Perez homer as Royals beat the Pirates

The Hays Larks are back at home Monday night to host the Newton Rebels in a non-league matchup at Larks Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks are back at home Monday night to host the Newton Rebels in a non-league matchup at Larks Park.The first pitch is set for 7 p.m.You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks hosts Newton

The Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame will induct two coaches, five athletes and one team this August.

The 2025 inductees include: Coach Rick Keltner Coach Frank Leo Ed Schumacher Dana Albright Joe Hoffman Tasha Arneson Donna Lowen 1970-1971 Boys Basketball Team

The banquet will be held Saturday August 9th, 2025 at the Rose Garden, in Hays. Tickets can be purchased at the Brian Ruder - American Family Insurance at the corner of 27th and Indian Trail in Hays or by going online to&nbsp;<a href="https://event.auctria.com/e5f59c1a-6d34-444d-a4c1-a6876a845545/aa6cd270-8751-11e9-a741-3fcfcb35cbb0?fbclid=IwY2xjawLZCv5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETF3YUlMZFl5MkVrZG8zalVaAR4ej20doAoqetBLCAEkiaXj1UNsftuE1GNsysJCIcUbPR2-EOvX6K8ga7P1Fg_aem__d9L2M0nvmo5DnIwnNPlYQ">HERE</a>.

Follow the group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysHighHOF">Facebook page</a>&nbsp;for more information about the inductees leading up to this year's ceremony.

Funds from ticket sales help cover the cost of the banquet and also help fund scholarships.&nbsp;Jaycee Oakley and Marshall Sook were the recepients of the 2025 graduating class scholarships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684438843553.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame will induct two coaches, five athletes and one team this August.The 2025 inductees include: Coach Rick Keltner Coach Frank Leo Ed Schumacher Dana Albright Joe Hoffman Tasha Arneson Donna Lowen 1970-1971 Boys Basketball Team The banquet will be held Saturday August 9th, 2025 at the Rose Garden, in Hays. Tickets can be purchased at the Brian Ruder - American Family Insurance at the corner of 27th and Indian Trail in Hays or by going online to&nbsp;<a href="https://event.auctria.com/e5f59c1a-6d34-444d-a4c1-a6876a845545/aa6cd270-8751-11e9-a741-3fcfcb35cbb0?fbclid=IwY2xjawLZCv5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETF3YUlMZFl5MkVrZG8zalVaAR4ej20doAoqetBLCAEkiaXj1UNsftuE1GNsysJCIcUbPR2-EOvX6K8ga7P1Fg_aem__d9L2M0nvmo5DnIwnNPlYQ">HERE</a>.Follow the group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysHighHOF">Facebook page</a>&nbsp;for more information about the inductees leading up to this year's ceremony.Funds from ticket sales help cover the cost of the banquet and also help fund scholarships.&nbsp;Jaycee Oakley and Marshall Sook were the recepients of the 2025 graduating class scholarships.

🏆 Hays High Athletics Hall of Fame inductees and ceremony

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball announced the addition of six players for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Tigers announced one of the six back in December of 2024 when Nebraska high school standout Ben Johnson committed. The latest additions include two transfers and three freshmen.

Both transfers are coming to FHSU from other NCAA Division II institutions. Juju Ramirez, a native of Lawrence, Kan., is transferring from Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, while Blake Danitschek comes to FHSU from Northwest Missouri State. The freshmen joining Ben Johnson include Tegen Curley, David Johnson, and Zack Sharkey.

Ramirez had a strong junior season at Saint Anselm in 2024-25, averaging 12.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, ranking third on his team in both categories. He started all 30 games for the season. He ranked second on the team in assists, averaging 2.8 per contest. Prior to his time at Saint Anselm, Ramirez played two years at NCAA Division I affiliate University of Northern Colorado. Though he is a native of Kansas, he played his final year of high school in New Hampshire at New Hampton School.

Danitschek was a member of the Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team for four years from 2021-2025. He saw two seasons of action on the court, which included the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. He did not play in any contests last year due to injury and his first year with the Bearcats was a redshirt year. He shot 50 percent from 3-point range during the 2023-24 campaign. The Bearcats won MIAA titles in both of his seasons on the floor. A native of Wichita, Danitschek attended Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School where he was an all-state and all-league selection.

Ben Johnson capped his storied prep career at Kearney High School with a Nebraska Super State Second Team selection. He was a Super State Third Team pick his junior year and earned all-state honors his final three years of high school. In his senior year, he averaged 19.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. He also set a new career record for rebounds at Kearney High School. Johnson was named the Kearney Hub Territory Boys Basketball Player of the Year back-to-back years (2024 and 2025).

David Johnson is a native of the New York City area and just played a year of prep ball at Bridgeport Prep in Connecticut. He played in high school at St. Benedict's Prep in New Jersey. At Bridgeport Prep, he earned an all-conference and all-defensive team selection. At St. Benedict's, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game in his final season, earning all-state, all-county, and all-county tournament honors.

Tegan Curley is a native of Marshfield, Mo., but just finished playing a year of prep ball at The New School in Arkansas. As a junior at Mansfield High School in Missouri, he was an all-state and all-conference selection when he averaged 18 points and 7.4 rebounds per game.

Zack Sharkey is a native of Lowell, Ind., but crossed the state line daily to play his high school career at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, Ill. He was a two-time all-state selection in Class 3A and a two-time Chicago All-Suburbs selection. He averaged 19.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game as a senior.

The six newcomers join eight returners on the team for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751917193007.png" alt="Image Courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball announced the addition of six players for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Tigers announced one of the six back in December of 2024 when Nebraska high school standout Ben Johnson committed. The latest additions include two transfers and three freshmen.Both transfers are coming to FHSU from other NCAA Division II institutions. Juju Ramirez, a native of Lawrence, Kan., is transferring from Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, while Blake Danitschek comes to FHSU from Northwest Missouri State. The freshmen joining Ben Johnson include Tegen Curley, David Johnson, and Zack Sharkey.Ramirez had a strong junior season at Saint Anselm in 2024-25, averaging 12.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, ranking third on his team in both categories. He started all 30 games for the season. He ranked second on the team in assists, averaging 2.8 per contest. Prior to his time at Saint Anselm, Ramirez played two years at NCAA Division I affiliate University of Northern Colorado. Though he is a native of Kansas, he played his final year of high school in New Hampshire at New Hampton School.Danitschek was a member of the Northwest Missouri State men's basketball team for four years from 2021-2025. He saw two seasons of action on the court, which included the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. He did not play in any contests last year due to injury and his first year with the Bearcats was a redshirt year. He shot 50 percent from 3-point range during the 2023-24 campaign. The Bearcats won MIAA titles in both of his seasons on the floor. A native of Wichita, Danitschek attended Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School where he was an all-state and all-league selection.Ben Johnson capped his storied prep career at Kearney High School with a Nebraska Super State Second Team selection. He was a Super State Third Team pick his junior year and earned all-state honors his final three years of high school. In his senior year, he averaged 19.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. He also set a new career record for rebounds at Kearney High School. Johnson was named the Kearney Hub Territory Boys Basketball Player of the Year back-to-back years (2024 and 2025).David Johnson is a native of the New York City area and just played a year of prep ball at Bridgeport Prep in Connecticut. He played in high school at St. Benedict's Prep in New Jersey. At Bridgeport Prep, he earned an all-conference and all-defensive team selection. At St. Benedict's, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game in his final season, earning all-state, all-county, and all-county tournament honors.Tegan Curley is a native of Marshfield, Mo., but just finished playing a year of prep ball at The New School in Arkansas. As a junior at Mansfield High School in Missouri, he was an all-state and all-conference selection when he averaged 18 points and 7.4 rebounds per game.Zack Sharkey is a native of Lowell, Ind., but crossed the state line daily to play his high school career at Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, Ill. He was a two-time all-state selection in Class 3A and a two-time Chicago All-Suburbs selection. He averaged 19.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.1 steals per game as a senior.The six newcomers join eight returners on the team for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

🏀 FHSU men add six for the 2025-26 season

IRVING, Texas — Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has been named the Big 12 Conference’s Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, headlining the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Football Team announced Monday.

The redshirt sophomore is one of five Sun Devils recognized on the preseason squad, the most of any school. Arizona State is coming off a Big 12 title in its first year as a member of the league.

Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a senior, was named the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, while Utah junior quarterback Devon Dampier was selected as Newcomer of the Year.

Texas Tech and Iowa State each had three players selected to the all-conference team.

2025 Big 12 Preseason Awards Offensive Player of the Year – Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State, R-So. Defensive Player of the Year – Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech, Sr. Newcomer of the Year – Devon Dampier, QB, Utah, Jr.

Preseason All-Big 12 Team Offense QB – Sam Leavitt, Arizona State, R-So. RB – Bryson Washington, Baylor, R-So. RB – Jahiem White, West Virginia, Jr. FB/H-Back – Will Swanson, Kansas State, Sr. WR – Eric McAlister, TCU, Sr. WR – Chase Roberts, BYU, R-Sr. WR – Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State, R-Jr. TE – Joe Royer, Cincinnati, R-Sr. OL – Ben Coleman, Arizona State, Gr. OL – Spencer Fano, Utah, Jr. OL – Bryce Foster, Kansas, R-Jr. OL – Caleb Lomu, Utah, R-So. OL – Jordan Seaton, Colorado, So. PK – Will Ferrin, BYU, R-Sr. PR/KR – Josh Cameron, Baylor, R-Sr.

Defense DL – David Bailey, Texas Tech, Sr. DL – Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati, R-Sr. DL – C.J. Fite, Arizona State, Jr. DL – Lee Hunter, Texas Tech, Sr. DL – Domonique Orange, Iowa State, Sr. LB – Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech, Sr. LB – Austin Romaine, Kansas State, Jr. LB – Keaton Thomas, Baylor, R-Jr. DB – Xavion Alford, Arizona State, R-Sr. DB – Bud Clark, TCU, Sr. DB – Jeremiah Cooper, Iowa State, Sr. DB – DJ McKinney, Colorado, Jr. DB – Jontez Williams, Iowa State, R-Jr. P – Palmer Williams, Baylor, Jr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751912421409.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>Big 12 ReleaseIRVING, Texas — Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has been named the Big 12 Conference’s Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, headlining the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Football Team announced Monday.The redshirt sophomore is one of five Sun Devils recognized on the preseason squad, the most of any school. Arizona State is coming off a Big 12 title in its first year as a member of the league.Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a senior, was named the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, while Utah junior quarterback Devon Dampier was selected as Newcomer of the Year.Texas Tech and Iowa State each had three players selected to the all-conference team.2025 Big 12 Preseason Awards Offensive Player of the Year – Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State, R-So. Defensive Player of the Year – Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech, Sr. Newcomer of the Year – Devon Dampier, QB, Utah, Jr.Preseason All-Big 12 Team Offense QB – Sam Leavitt, Arizona State, R-So. RB – Bryson Washington, Baylor, R-So. RB – Jahiem White, West Virginia, Jr. FB/H-Back – Will Swanson, Kansas State, Sr. WR – Eric McAlister, TCU, Sr. WR – Chase Roberts, BYU, R-Sr. WR – Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State, R-Jr. TE – Joe Royer, Cincinnati, R-Sr. OL – Ben Coleman, Arizona State, Gr. OL – Spencer Fano, Utah, Jr. OL – Bryce Foster, Kansas, R-Jr. OL – Caleb Lomu, Utah, R-So. OL – Jordan Seaton, Colorado, So. PK – Will Ferrin, BYU, R-Sr. PR/KR – Josh Cameron, Baylor, R-Sr.Defense DL – David Bailey, Texas Tech, Sr. DL – Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati, R-Sr. DL – C.J. Fite, Arizona State, Jr. DL – Lee Hunter, Texas Tech, Sr. DL – Domonique Orange, Iowa State, Sr. LB – Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech, Sr. LB – Austin Romaine, Kansas State, Jr. LB – Keaton Thomas, Baylor, R-Jr. DB – Xavion Alford, Arizona State, R-Sr. DB – Bud Clark, TCU, Sr. DB – Jeremiah Cooper, Iowa State, Sr. DB – DJ McKinney, Colorado, Jr. DB – Jontez Williams, Iowa State, R-Jr. P – Palmer Williams, Baylor, Jr.

🏈 KU, K-State place three on 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 team

Monday, July 7 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; Monday, July 7 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pmTuesday, July 8 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pmWednesday, July 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 6:00pmThursday, July 10 noneFriday, July 11 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 6:30pmSaturday, July 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 2:30pmSunday, July 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Mets, 12:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Sunday, July 6 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks, 2:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Sunday, July 6 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks, 2:30pm

PHOENIX (AP) — Michael Lorenzen struck out seven in seven dominant innings, Bobby Witt Jr. homered and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-0 on Sunday.

Lorenzen (5-8) kept the Diamondbacks off-balance all afternoon with a mix of mid-90s fastballs and changeups. He struck out the side in the first inning and didn’t allow a hit until Randal Grichuk’s two-out double in the fifth.

Lorenzen allowed two hits and walked one.

Witt hit a solo homer off Anthony DeSclafani (0-1) in the fifth inning to extend his team-record road hitting streak to 26 games. Salvador Perez also hit a solo homer in the Royals' fourth win in six games.

Arizona had three hits and didn't get a runner past second base to lose for the fourth time in five games.

Witt's homer with one out in the fifth — hit 12th of the season — was the first hit off DeSclafani. Perez followed with his 10th later in the inning.

John Rave chased DeSclafani with a run-scoring single in the fifth inning and Kyle Isbel followed with another to put Kansas City up 4-0.

DeSclafani allowed four runs on four hits and struck out six in four innings.

Witt's homer in the fifth was the first hit by either team.

Witt's road hitting streak ties for the second-longest in the last 10 years, behind the 32-game streak by the Dodgers' Trea Turner from 2021-22. Marcus Semien also had a hit in 26 straight road games for Toronto in 2021.

Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (2-4, 2.56 ERA) pitches the opener of a three-game home series against Pittsburgh on Monday night. Arizona RHP Zac Gallen 6-9, 5.45) opens a four-game series at San Diego on Monday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751884081285.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen throws against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen throws against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)</figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — Michael Lorenzen struck out seven in seven dominant innings, Bobby Witt Jr. homered and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-0 on Sunday.Lorenzen (5-8) kept the Diamondbacks off-balance all afternoon with a mix of mid-90s fastballs and changeups. He struck out the side in the first inning and didn’t allow a hit until Randal Grichuk’s two-out double in the fifth.Lorenzen allowed two hits and walked one.Witt hit a solo homer off Anthony DeSclafani (0-1) in the fifth inning to extend his team-record road hitting streak to 26 games. Salvador Perez also hit a solo homer in the Royals' fourth win in six games.Arizona had three hits and didn't get a runner past second base to lose for the fourth time in five games.Witt's homer with one out in the fifth — hit 12th of the season — was the first hit off DeSclafani. Perez followed with his 10th later in the inning.John Rave chased DeSclafani with a run-scoring single in the fifth inning and Kyle Isbel followed with another to put Kansas City up 4-0.DeSclafani allowed four runs on four hits and struck out six in four innings.<h2>Key moment</h2>Witt's homer in the fifth was the first hit by either team.<h2>Key stat</h2>Witt's road hitting streak ties for the second-longest in the last 10 years, behind the 32-game streak by the Dodgers' Trea Turner from 2021-22. Marcus Semien also had a hit in 26 straight road games for Toronto in 2021.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (2-4, 2.56 ERA) pitches the opener of a three-game home series against Pittsburgh on Monday night. Arizona RHP Zac Gallen 6-9, 5.45) opens a four-game series at San Diego on Monday night.

⚾ Lorenzen dominant, Witt homers in Royals win over Diamondbacks

ATLANTA — Royals pitcher Kris Bubic and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. have been selected to represent the American League at the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, set for July 15 in Atlanta.

Witt, 25, earns his second consecutive All-Star nod as he continues to build on his breakout 2024 campaign. The former No. 2 overall pick has remained one of the league’s most dynamic players, hitting .292 with 12 home runs, 49 RBIs, 30 doubles, and 24 stolen bases through Sunday. He also leads all AL shortstops with 13 Outs Above Average, showcasing elite defense at a premium position.

Bubic, meanwhile, will make his first career All-Star appearance — a remarkable milestone after undergoing Tommy John surgery just over a year ago. The 27-year-old left-hander has emerged as one of the top starters in the American League this season, posting a 2.36 ERA with 107 strikeouts in 103 1/3 innings. He was named AL Pitcher of the Month in May after allowing just two earned runs across five starts.

Bubic’s resurgence has been a key piece in Kansas City’s strong first half and playoff push, while Witt continues to cement his status as a franchise cornerstone.

Though the Royals will send just two players to Atlanta, both Witt and manager Matt Quatraro voiced support for others, including third baseman Maikel Garcia and closer Carlos Estévez, as worthy of All-Star recognition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747217395170.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Kris Bubic throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros in Houston, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Kris Bubic throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros in Houston, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA — Royals pitcher Kris Bubic and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. have been selected to represent the American League at the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, set for July 15 in Atlanta.Witt, 25, earns his second consecutive All-Star nod as he continues to build on his breakout 2024 campaign. The former No. 2 overall pick has remained one of the league’s most dynamic players, hitting .292 with 12 home runs, 49 RBIs, 30 doubles, and 24 stolen bases through Sunday. He also leads all AL shortstops with 13 Outs Above Average, showcasing elite defense at a premium position.Bubic, meanwhile, will make his first career All-Star appearance — a remarkable milestone after undergoing Tommy John surgery just over a year ago. The 27-year-old left-hander has emerged as one of the top starters in the American League this season, posting a 2.36 ERA with 107 strikeouts in 103 1/3 innings. He was named AL Pitcher of the Month in May after allowing just two earned runs across five starts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750963065010.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates with teammates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Chicago, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates with teammates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Chicago, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)</figcaption>
 </figure>Bubic’s resurgence has been a key piece in Kansas City’s strong first half and playoff push, while Witt continues to cement his status as a franchise cornerstone.Though the Royals will send just two players to Atlanta, both Witt and manager Matt Quatraro voiced support for others, including third baseman Maikel Garcia and closer Carlos Estévez, as worthy of All-Star recognition.

⚾ Kris Bubic, Bobby Witt Jr. selected as Royals’ All-Star Game representatives

PARKER, Colo. –&nbsp;The Hays Larks scored 10 runs in the
final three innings and rallied for a 15-13 comeback win over the Gameday
Angels in 10 innings Saturday at Double Angel Field for the two-game series sweep.
The 

The Larks (17-4-1, 12-4 RMBL) scored two in the first and
two in the second and led 5-1 entering the bottom of the fourth but Gameday (10-12,
6-9 RMBL) answered with eight runs in the bottom of the inning which included a
solo homer and grand slam. They added another run on an error in the fifth which
pushed their lead to 10-5 where it remained until the eighth.

The Larks started their comeback with four runs in the top
of the eighth. Taber Stokes had an RBI double, Kaleb Duncan added a sacrifice
fly and Jackson Babcock a two-run double. Stokes tied the game with a one-out
RBI single in the top of the ninth. 

The Larks took the lead back with five in the top of the 10th.
Babcock opened the inning with a double, Garrett Gruell followed with a single
then stole second, both scored on Dylan LaRue’s single. Stokes hit a three-run
homer for a 15-10 lead.

The Angels got a two-out bases loaded double which scored
three but a fly out ended the game.

Trent Baker, Dylan LaRue and Taber Stokes all had three of
the Larks 17 hits. Stokes drove in five and Baker had three RBIs.

Brooks Jones (2-0) allowed three runs on two hits with 10
strikeouts and four walks over 4 1/3 innings of relief and picked up the win.

Hays Post SportsPARKER, Colo. –&nbsp;The Hays Larks scored 10 runs in the
final three innings and rallied for a 15-13 comeback win over the Gameday
Angels in 10 innings Saturday at Double Angel Field for the two-game series sweep.
The The Larks (17-4-1, 12-4 RMBL) scored two in the first and
two in the second and led 5-1 entering the bottom of the fourth but Gameday (10-12,
6-9 RMBL) answered with eight runs in the bottom of the inning which included a
solo homer and grand slam. They added another run on an error in the fifth which
pushed their lead to 10-5 where it remained until the eighth.The Larks started their comeback with four runs in the top
of the eighth. Taber Stokes had an RBI double, Kaleb Duncan added a sacrifice
fly and Jackson Babcock a two-run double. Stokes tied the game with a one-out
RBI single in the top of the ninth. The Larks took the lead back with five in the top of the 10th.
Babcock opened the inning with a double, Garrett Gruell followed with a single
then stole second, both scored on Dylan LaRue’s single. Stokes hit a three-run
homer for a 15-10 lead.The Angels got a two-out bases loaded double which scored
three but a fly out ended the game.Trent Baker, Dylan LaRue and Taber Stokes all had three of
the Larks 17 hits. Stokes drove in five and Baker had three RBIs.Brooks Jones (2-0) allowed three runs on two hits with 10
strikeouts and four walks over 4 1/3 innings of relief and picked up the win.UP NEXT

⚾ Larks rally late to extra inning win over Angels

PHOENIX (AP) — Ryne Nelson retired the first 16 Kansas City batters and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Royals 7-1 on Saturday to end a three-game losing streak.

Nelson (5-2), who moved into the rotation full-time when Corbin Burnes was sidelined for the season by elbow surgery, gave up four hits and one run over seven innings. The right-hander threw 86 pitches, walked none and struck out five.

Freddy Fermin’s sharp single to center with one out in the sixth ended Nelson’s perfect-game bid. Fermin scored on Bobby Witt Jr.'s two-out single.

Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suárez had RBI singles in the third off Michael Wacha (4-9), and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. doubled in two runs in the fifth for Arizona. Gurriel also tripled in the seventh off Taylor Clarke and scored on James McCann’s double.

Wacha lasted four-plus innings, giving up four hits and four runs. He threw 97 pitches, walking four and striking out four.

Randal Grichuk hit an&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Dbacks/status/1941628353775272246">inside-the-park homer</a>&nbsp;in the eighth. With a man on base, he hit a long fly to right-center that bounced away from outfielders Jac Caglianone and Kyle Isbel and into center field as Grichuk scored standing up for his fifth homer of the season.

Before the game, the Diamondbacks activated outfielder Corbin Carroll from the injured list. The 2023 National League Rookie of the Year, who has 20 homers and a major league-leading nine triples, was 0 for 5 in his return. He had been sidelined since June 18, when he sustained a chip fracture in his left wrist when he was hit by a pitch in Toronto.

Utilityman Tim Tawa was optioned to Triple-A Reno in a corresponding move.

Gurriel’s two-out, two-run double off reliever John Schreiber made it 4-0 in the fifth.

Nelson is 3-0 with a 2.01 ERA in his last five starts.

PHOENIX (AP) — Ryne Nelson retired the first 16 Kansas City batters and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Royals 7-1 on Saturday to end a three-game losing streak.Nelson (5-2), who moved into the rotation full-time when Corbin Burnes was sidelined for the season by elbow surgery, gave up four hits and one run over seven innings. The right-hander threw 86 pitches, walked none and struck out five.Freddy Fermin’s sharp single to center with one out in the sixth ended Nelson’s perfect-game bid. Fermin scored on Bobby Witt Jr.'s two-out single.Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suárez had RBI singles in the third off Michael Wacha (4-9), and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. doubled in two runs in the fifth for Arizona. Gurriel also tripled in the seventh off Taylor Clarke and scored on James McCann’s double.Wacha lasted four-plus innings, giving up four hits and four runs. He threw 97 pitches, walking four and striking out four.Randal Grichuk hit an&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Dbacks/status/1941628353775272246">inside-the-park homer</a>&nbsp;in the eighth. With a man on base, he hit a long fly to right-center that bounced away from outfielders Jac Caglianone and Kyle Isbel and into center field as Grichuk scored standing up for his fifth homer of the season.Before the game, the Diamondbacks activated outfielder Corbin Carroll from the injured list. The 2023 National League Rookie of the Year, who has 20 homers and a major league-leading nine triples, was 0 for 5 in his return. He had been sidelined since June 18, when he sustained a chip fracture in his left wrist when he was hit by a pitch in Toronto.Utilityman Tim Tawa was optioned to Triple-A Reno in a corresponding move.<h2>Key moment</h2>Gurriel’s two-out, two-run double off reliever John Schreiber made it 4-0 in the fifth.<h2>Key stat</h2>Nelson is 3-0 with a 2.01 ERA in his last five starts.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Nelson retires first 16 Royals in Diamondbacks' victory

The Hays Larks are in Parker, Colorado on Saturday to close out their two-game series&nbsp;against the Gameday Angels.

The first pitch is set for 6 p.m. at Double Angel Ballpark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks are in Parker, Colorado on Saturday to close out their two-game series&nbsp;against the Gameday Angels.The first pitch is set for 6 p.m. at Double Angel Ballpark.You can catch on the action on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@hayslarksbaseball/streams">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays
Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks at Gameday Angels

Saturday, July 5 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks, 2:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Saturday, July 5 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks, 2:30pmSunday, July 6 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks, 2:30pm

PHOENIX (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered twice and drove in a career-high six runs, Bobby Witt Jr. added three hits and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-3 on Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751697443136.jpeg" alt="Photo KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered twice and drove in a career-high six runs, Bobby Witt Jr. added three hits and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-3 on Friday night.The Royals have won three of their past four games. The D-backs have dropped three straight.Pasquantino gave the Royals a 3-0 lead in the first with a three-run shot into the right field seats off left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez. The first baseman took Rodriguez deep again in the fourth, this time mashing the ball 401 feet over the right-center wall for a two-run homer and an 8-2 lead.It was Pasquantino's second career multi-homer game. Mark Canha added a solo homer in the fifth.Kansas City lefty Kris Bubic (7-6) gave up three runs on seven hits and three walks over seven innings. He struck out six.Rodriguez (3-5) gave up nine runs — eight earned — over 4 1/3 innings and now has a 5.78 ERA. He struck out seven, but gave up 12 hits, including three homers.Arizona cut Kansas City's lead to 3-2 in the bottom of the first on Eugenio Suarez's sacrifice fly and Josh Naylor's RBI single. But the Royals came right back with three runs in the second to take a 6-2 lead.Suarez added a solo homer in the sixth — his 28th of the season.<h2>Key moment</h2>Rodriguez had two strikes on leadoff hitter Jonathan India in the first inning before hitting him with a pitch. Witt followed with a single and Pasquantino homered, foreshadowing a rough night for the D-backs.<h2>Key stat</h2>Rodriguez has a 6-9 record with a 5.49 ERA over 25 starts since signing with the D-backs on an $80 million, four-year deal in December 2023.<h2>Up next</h2>The series continues Saturday when the Royals send RHP Michael Wacha (4-8, 3.62 ERA) to the mound. The D-backs counter with RHP Ryne Nelson (4-2, 3.61).