By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.

The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.

“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."

Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.

He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.

Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.

“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.

“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”

Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.

“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”

In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.

The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.

“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718359742795.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrives on the red carpet before a ceremony for team members to receive their championship rings for winning NFL's Super Bowl 58 football game Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrives on the red carpet before a ceremony for team members to receive their championship rings for winning NFL's Super Bowl 58 football game Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

🏈 Chiefs give nod to winning 'Tom & Jerry' play in jewel-filled Super Bowl ring

TOPEKA – Changes to postseason formats and championship sites for basketball, football, wrestling and track and field highlight actions approved at the June 12-13 KSHSAA Executive Board Meeting. The postseason formats are set by the KSHSAA Executive Board each year.

Basketball -&nbsp;Beginning in March of 2026, the state basketball tournaments will be moving to four total sites. Four facilities will play host to the seven classifications, 14 championships. By honoring the KSHSAA membership voted in the fall of 2023 to qualify eight boys teams and eight girls teams involved at the final site, modifications to the daily schedule will be developed. The schedule and other event details, including classification designations for each site and venue selection will be determined and announced following the 2024-25 basketball season.

Another basketball postseason change effective with the 2024-25 season will come at the 3A, 2A, 1A DI and 1A DII classifications. Each class will be divided into four regions and then seeded into two sub-states within the region: Substate A: 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16; Substate B: 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15. The winner of each substate will advance to the state basketball tournament. Further format details and dates will be sent to member schools.

Football&nbsp;- As announced in January, the state football championships will be moving to three sites with three games being played at each site. The executive board approved the following sites and schedule for 2024:

Emporia State University: Class 6A = Friday, November 29 at 2:00pm Class 4A = Saturday, November 30 at 1:00pm Class 5A = Saturday, November 30 at 7:00pm

Hutchinson Community College: Class 2A = Friday, November 29 at 6:00pm Class 3A = Saturday, November 30 at 12:00pm Class 1A = Saturday, November 30 at 5:00pm

Kiowa County High School, Greensburg: Class 8-player DII = Saturday, November 30 at 11:00am Class 6-Player = Saturday, November 30 at 3:00pm Class 8-Player DI = Saturday, November 30 at 7:00pm

Wrestling&nbsp;– Girl’s wrestling will now include four classes to mirror the boy’s classification designations. The addition of another class for girl’s wrestling necessitates the addition of another championship site. 6A, 5A, 4A and 3-1A will each have their own site to determine a champion. 3-1A state wrestling will be in Hays and 4A will be in Salina. Park City Arena and one other facility to be named later will house either 6A or 5A. State sites and regional dates will be determined at the September KSHSAA Executive Board meeting. The state wrestling tournament will take place February 28 - March 1, 2025.

Track and Field&nbsp;– Qualification for the state meet was adjusted to now be the top 3 plus the next four best regional performance in each event.

Two committees will be formed to gather input from membership school leaders. One to discuss the details behind the implementation of Esports prior to the possible adoption as a KSHSAA sanctioned activity. The second committee will review the KSHSAA calendar to consider possible alternatives to dates of postseason activities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620403640441.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSHSAATOPEKA – Changes to postseason formats and championship sites for basketball, football, wrestling and track and field highlight actions approved at the June 12-13 KSHSAA Executive Board Meeting. The postseason formats are set by the KSHSAA Executive Board each year.Basketball -&nbsp;Beginning in March of 2026, the state basketball tournaments will be moving to four total sites. Four facilities will play host to the seven classifications, 14 championships. By honoring the KSHSAA membership voted in the fall of 2023 to qualify eight boys teams and eight girls teams involved at the final site, modifications to the daily schedule will be developed. The schedule and other event details, including classification designations for each site and venue selection will be determined and announced following the 2024-25 basketball season.Another basketball postseason change effective with the 2024-25 season will come at the 3A, 2A, 1A DI and 1A DII classifications. Each class will be divided into four regions and then seeded into two sub-states within the region: Substate A: 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16; Substate B: 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15. The winner of each substate will advance to the state basketball tournament. Further format details and dates will be sent to member schools.Football&nbsp;- As announced in January, the state football championships will be moving to three sites with three games being played at each site. The executive board approved the following sites and schedule for 2024:Emporia State University: Class 6A = Friday, November 29 at 2:00pm Class 4A = Saturday, November 30 at 1:00pm Class 5A = Saturday, November 30 at 7:00pmHutchinson Community College: Class 2A = Friday, November 29 at 6:00pm Class 3A = Saturday, November 30 at 12:00pm Class 1A = Saturday, November 30 at 5:00pmKiowa County High School, Greensburg: Class 8-player DII = Saturday, November 30 at 11:00am Class 6-Player = Saturday, November 30 at 3:00pm Class 8-Player DI = Saturday, November 30 at 7:00pmWrestling&nbsp;– Girl’s wrestling will now include four classes to mirror the boy’s classification designations. The addition of another class for girl’s wrestling necessitates the addition of another championship site. 6A, 5A, 4A and 3-1A will each have their own site to determine a champion. 3-1A state wrestling will be in Hays and 4A will be in Salina. Park City Arena and one other facility to be named later will house either 6A or 5A. State sites and regional dates will be determined at the September KSHSAA Executive Board meeting. The state wrestling tournament will take place February 28 - March 1, 2025.Track and Field&nbsp;– Qualification for the state meet was adjusted to now be the top 3 plus the next four best regional performance in each event.Two committees will be formed to gather input from membership school leaders. One to discuss the details behind the implementation of Esports prior to the possible adoption as a KSHSAA sanctioned activity. The second committee will review the KSHSAA calendar to consider possible alternatives to dates of postseason activities.

KSHSAA Executive Board approves several postseason changes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a game-ending two run double off Yankees closer Clay Holmes, and the Kansas City Royals recovered after squandering a brilliant start by Alec Marsh to beat New York 4-3 on Thursday and avoid a four-game sweep.

Marsh took a no-hit bid into the seventh inning against the major league-best Yankees (49-22), who had outscored the Royals 25-8 in the first three games of the series. He allowed Juan Soto's leadoff single in that frame and then retired the next three batters to conclude his 96-pitch outing.

New York immediately went to work in the eighth against reliever John Schreiber. Anthony Rizzo homered to get the Yankees within 2-1. An error by second baseman Garrett Hampson set up Anthony Volpe's RBI grounder. Angel Zerpa came in and gave up Soto's go-ahead RBI single.

With one out in the ninth against Holmes (1-2), Drew Waters hit a grounder that went for an infield hit after Holmes and first baseman Rizzo were confused about who would field the ball. After a fielder's-grounder, Kyle Isbel singled to bring up Garcia, who hit a liner down the left-field line to score MJ Melendez from third and Isbel from first.

It was the fourth blown save in 23 chances for Holmes.

James McArthur (3-3) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City, which snapped a four-game skid. The Royals finished 2 for 10 with runners in scoring position.

Nestor Cortes gave up two runs in seven innings for New York to lower his road ERA to 5.57 from 6.17. The left-hander's ERA at Yankee Stadium is 1.77.

Bobby Witt Jr. extended his hitting streak to a career-high 14 games with a fourth-inning single and came in to score on Vinnie Pasquantino's two-run double off the wall in left-center. That gave the Royals their first lead in the series.

The Royals threatened again in the sixth. Witt led off with a single, but was caught stealing on a pickoff throw by Cortes. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro was ejected after arguing that a balk should have been called.

The Royals recalled LHP Anthony Veneziano from Triple-A Omaha and optioned LHP Daniel Lynch to Omaha.

The Yankees travel to Boston Friday to begin a three-game series against the Red Sox. RHP Luis Gil (8-1, 2.04 ERA) will face RHP Brayan Bello (6-3, 4.78 ERA).

The Royals head to Los Angeles for a three-game series against the Dodgers. LHP Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.08 ERA) will get the start for Kansas City against RHP Gavin Stone (7-2, 2.93 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718313262212.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a game-ending two run double off Yankees closer Clay Holmes, and the Kansas City Royals recovered after squandering a brilliant start by Alec Marsh to beat New York 4-3 on Thursday and avoid a four-game sweep.Marsh took a no-hit bid into the seventh inning against the major league-best Yankees (49-22), who had outscored the Royals 25-8 in the first three games of the series. He allowed Juan Soto's leadoff single in that frame and then retired the next three batters to conclude his 96-pitch outing.New York immediately went to work in the eighth against reliever John Schreiber. Anthony Rizzo homered to get the Yankees within 2-1. An error by second baseman Garrett Hampson set up Anthony Volpe's RBI grounder. Angel Zerpa came in and gave up Soto's go-ahead RBI single.With one out in the ninth against Holmes (1-2), Drew Waters hit a grounder that went for an infield hit after Holmes and first baseman Rizzo were confused about who would field the ball. After a fielder's-grounder, Kyle Isbel singled to bring up Garcia, who hit a liner down the left-field line to score MJ Melendez from third and Isbel from first.It was the fourth blown save in 23 chances for Holmes.James McArthur (3-3) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City, which snapped a four-game skid. The Royals finished 2 for 10 with runners in scoring position.Nestor Cortes gave up two runs in seven innings for New York to lower his road ERA to 5.57 from 6.17. The left-hander's ERA at Yankee Stadium is 1.77.Bobby Witt Jr. extended his hitting streak to a career-high 14 games with a fourth-inning single and came in to score on Vinnie Pasquantino's two-run double off the wall in left-center. That gave the Royals their first lead in the series.The Royals threatened again in the sixth. Witt led off with a single, but was caught stealing on a pickoff throw by Cortes. Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro was ejected after arguing that a balk should have been called.TRANSACTIONSThe Royals recalled LHP Anthony Veneziano from Triple-A Omaha and optioned LHP Daniel Lynch to Omaha.UP NEXTThe Yankees travel to Boston Friday to begin a three-game series against the Red Sox. RHP Luis Gil (8-1, 2.04 ERA) will face RHP Brayan Bello (6-3, 4.78 ERA).The Royals head to Los Angeles for a three-game series against the Dodgers. LHP Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.08 ERA) will get the start for Kansas City against RHP Gavin Stone (7-2, 2.93 ERA).___

⚾ Garcia's game-ending hit gives Royals win over Yankees

Thursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pm

Friday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pm

Saturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pm

Sunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

Thursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

AUGUSTA – The Hays Larks scored five runs over the first two
innings and then held off a late Cannons rally in a 12-6 win Wednesday in
Augusta.

The Larks took advantage of an error, scoring two runs in
the top of the first inning. In the second, CJ Reid and Kaleb Duncan added
back-to-back RBI singles putting Hays up 5-1.

Reid added an RBI double and Kaiden Ashton followed with a
run-scoring triple for a 7-4 Larks lead.

After the Cannons got a run back in the seventh Hays
exploded for five more runs in the ninth inning.

Wilbert Espinal and Tabor Stokes added run-scoring singles
in the top of the inning and then Thomas Lyssy cleared the bases with a
three-run triple as the Larks go on to pick up the 12-6 victory.

Kaleb Duncan finished 4-for-5 with two RBI's and two runs scored. Thomas Lyssy added three RBI's.

&nbsp;The Larks return home
and begin a three-game weekend series Friday with the Colorado Roughriders.

Hays PostAUGUSTA – The Hays Larks scored five runs over the first two
innings and then held off a late Cannons rally in a 12-6 win Wednesday in
Augusta.The Larks took advantage of an error, scoring two runs in
the top of the first inning. In the second, CJ Reid and Kaleb Duncan added
back-to-back RBI singles putting Hays up 5-1.Reid added an RBI double and Kaiden Ashton followed with a
run-scoring triple for a 7-4 Larks lead.After the Cannons got a run back in the seventh Hays
exploded for five more runs in the ninth inning.Wilbert Espinal and Tabor Stokes added run-scoring singles
in the top of the inning and then Thomas Lyssy cleared the bases with a
three-run triple as the Larks go on to pick up the 12-6 victory.Kaleb Duncan finished 4-for-5 with two RBI's and two runs scored. Thomas Lyssy added three RBI's.&nbsp;The Larks return home
and begin a three-game weekend series Friday with the Colorado Roughriders.

⚾Larks hold off Kansas Cannons

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Hunter Renfroe's left big toe is not fractured, the Kansas City Royals said Wednesday, two days after the team initially announced it was broken by a foul ball.

Kansas City said Renfroe is expected to miss two to three weeks, down from six to eight weeks.

Renfroe was hurt Monday when he fouled off a pair of pitches against left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. The outfielder got off to a slow start this season but had raised his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718073233917.png" alt="Hunter Renfroe -photo KC Royela" />
 <figcaption>Hunter Renfroe -photo KC Royela</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Hunter Renfroe's left big toe is not fractured, the Kansas City Royals said Wednesday, two days after the team initially announced it was broken by a foul ball.Kansas City said Renfroe is expected to miss two to three weeks, down from six to eight weeks.Renfroe was hurt Monday when he fouled off a pair of pitches against left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. The outfielder got off to a slow start this season but had raised his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.

Royals reverse initial announcement: Hunter Renfroe's left big toe not broken

The Hays Larks are inviting everyone to the 15th annual
Military Appreciation Night in conjunction with their game against the Colorado
Roughriders on Saturday, June 15th at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp; All active, reserve, and retired military
personnel are specially invited to attend and will be honored on the field
during pregame ceremonies. Military personnel will also be recognized after the
6th inning prior to the singing of “God Bless America”. Military personnel in
attendance should check in at the east side of the grandstand by 6:45 pm
Saturday evening.

Fans are encouraged to be in the park by 6:50 pm to show
their appreciation and support for all military personnel during pregame
ceremonies. Those ceremonies will feature recognition of all military personnel
in attendance, a Color Guard, and the National Anthem sung live by Uncalled-4.
Those in attendance will also enjoy patriotic music and a red, white, and blue
decorated park throughout the evening.&nbsp;
Flags lining the park will be provided courtesy of American Legion
Riders Post #173 of Hays, KS. Free admission to the game will be provided
courtesy of the Hays VFW Post 9076, VFW Auxiliary, and Kiwanis Club of Hays.

See you at Larks Park on June 15th!&nbsp; Come join the team for fantastic baseball,
pay tribute to veteran, reserve, and active military personnel and enjoy an
evening of inexpensive fun!&nbsp; For more
information please contact Frank Leo, Hays Larks Manager at 785-628-6703.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Hays Larks are inviting everyone to the 15th annual
Military Appreciation Night in conjunction with their game against the Colorado
Roughriders on Saturday, June 15th at Larks Park at 7 p.m.&nbsp; All active, reserve, and retired military
personnel are specially invited to attend and will be honored on the field
during pregame ceremonies. Military personnel will also be recognized after the
6th inning prior to the singing of “God Bless America”. Military personnel in
attendance should check in at the east side of the grandstand by 6:45 pm
Saturday evening.Fans are encouraged to be in the park by 6:50 pm to show
their appreciation and support for all military personnel during pregame
ceremonies. Those ceremonies will feature recognition of all military personnel
in attendance, a Color Guard, and the National Anthem sung live by Uncalled-4.
Those in attendance will also enjoy patriotic music and a red, white, and blue
decorated park throughout the evening.&nbsp;
Flags lining the park will be provided courtesy of American Legion
Riders Post #173 of Hays, KS. Free admission to the game will be provided
courtesy of the Hays VFW Post 9076, VFW Auxiliary, and Kiwanis Club of Hays.See you at Larks Park on June 15th!&nbsp; Come join the team for fantastic baseball,
pay tribute to veteran, reserve, and active military personnel and enjoy an
evening of inexpensive fun!&nbsp; For more
information please contact Frank Leo, Hays Larks Manager at 785-628-6703.&nbsp;

⚾ Larks set to host Military Appreciation Night June 15

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jose Trevino capped a six-run first inning with a three-run homer, Gleyber Torres added a three-run drive in the seventh and the New York Yankees romped over the Kansas City Royals 11-5 Wednesday night for their third straight win in the four-game series.

Giancarlo Stanton hit a 449-foot, two-run homer into shrubbery next to a waterfall beyond left-center, a night after hitting a 446-foot home run over three fences beyond center field.

Stanton has five home runs at Kauffman, two to left field and two to center.

“We got to get right field now, so I got one more game to do it,” Stanton said.

The major league-best Yankees (49-21) have won 12 of their last 15 games and have outscored the Royals 25-8 in the series.

New York has scored 10 runs in the first inning of the three games and leads the major leagues with 57 first-inning runs. The Yankees are 25-3 when scoring in first with a .296 batting average, 20 homers and a .971 OPS.

“A lot of good things, obviously, happened in that first inning,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “Everyone putting together really good at-bats and capped off by a no-doubter by Trevvy. ... That’s a good offense, and they're playing well, getting some contributions from everyone.”

New York has won 17 of its first 22 series, moved a season-best 28 games over .500 and improved to 17-1 against the AL Central, winning 15 in a row.

Alex Verdugo put the Yankees ahead with a two-run single and Anthony Rizzo had a sacrifice fly in the first for his first RBI since May 25. In a 1-for-36 slide this month, Rizzo singled in the seventh for his first hit since June 5.

Stanton’s home run was his 17th, and Trevino and Torres have six each.

"Big innings are tough to come back from regardless," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "We’ve done it, and we worked hard to try to get back in it tonight as well. We just couldn’t come through with a big hit a couple of times.”

Juan Soto was in right field for the second straight night after missing three games with left forearm inflammation and went 1 for 2 with a pair of walks, raising his batting average to .317.

Backed by an 8-0 lead, Cody Poteet (3-0) allowed two runs and four hits in 5 1/3 innings.

“It’s just exciting, fun to watch,” Poteet said. “When you see that, you just want to go out there and pound the strike zone because (when) they’re scoring like that early on, you just want to have a shut-down inning.”

AL batting leader Bobby Witt. Jr. doubled in Kansas City’s first run in the sixth, had three hits and lifted his average .326. The Royals have lost four in a row for the first time this season and 11 of 16 following an eight-game winning streak. Kansas City has allowed 19 runs in the first inning over its last six games.

Royals opener Dan Altavilla (0-1) gave up five runs, three hits and one walk while getting one out, raising his ERA to 33.75.

Royals: Kansas City said OF Hunter Renfroe’s left big toe is not fractured as originally thought. Renfroe fouled two balls off his foot three pitches apart Monday. He is projected to miss two-to-three weeks, down from six-to-eight weeks.

LHP Nestor Cortes (3-5, 3.68 ERA) starts Thursday’s series finale for the Yankees and RHP Alec Marsh (5-3, 4.05 ERA) for the Royals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718271789518.jpeg" alt="New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals Wednesday, June 12, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals Wednesday, June 12, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jose Trevino capped a six-run first inning with a three-run homer, Gleyber Torres added a three-run drive in the seventh and the New York Yankees romped over the Kansas City Royals 11-5 Wednesday night for their third straight win in the four-game series.Giancarlo Stanton hit a 449-foot, two-run homer into shrubbery next to a waterfall beyond left-center, a night after hitting a 446-foot home run over three fences beyond center field.Stanton has five home runs at Kauffman, two to left field and two to center.“We got to get right field now, so I got one more game to do it,” Stanton said.The major league-best Yankees (49-21) have won 12 of their last 15 games and have outscored the Royals 25-8 in the series.New York has scored 10 runs in the first inning of the three games and leads the major leagues with 57 first-inning runs. The Yankees are 25-3 when scoring in first with a .296 batting average, 20 homers and a .971 OPS.“A lot of good things, obviously, happened in that first inning,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “Everyone putting together really good at-bats and capped off by a no-doubter by Trevvy. ... That’s a good offense, and they're playing well, getting some contributions from everyone.”New York has won 17 of its first 22 series, moved a season-best 28 games over .500 and improved to 17-1 against the AL Central, winning 15 in a row.Alex Verdugo put the Yankees ahead with a two-run single and Anthony Rizzo had a sacrifice fly in the first for his first RBI since May 25. In a 1-for-36 slide this month, Rizzo singled in the seventh for his first hit since June 5.Stanton’s home run was his 17th, and Trevino and Torres have six each."Big innings are tough to come back from regardless," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "We’ve done it, and we worked hard to try to get back in it tonight as well. We just couldn’t come through with a big hit a couple of times.”Juan Soto was in right field for the second straight night after missing three games with left forearm inflammation and went 1 for 2 with a pair of walks, raising his batting average to .317.Backed by an 8-0 lead, Cody Poteet (3-0) allowed two runs and four hits in 5 1/3 innings.“It’s just exciting, fun to watch,” Poteet said. “When you see that, you just want to go out there and pound the strike zone because (when) they’re scoring like that early on, you just want to have a shut-down inning.”AL batting leader Bobby Witt. Jr. doubled in Kansas City’s first run in the sixth, had three hits and lifted his average .326. The Royals have lost four in a row for the first time this season and 11 of 16 following an eight-game winning streak. Kansas City has allowed 19 runs in the first inning over its last six games.Royals opener Dan Altavilla (0-1) gave up five runs, three hits and one walk while getting one out, raising his ERA to 33.75.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: Kansas City said OF Hunter Renfroe’s left big toe is not fractured as originally thought. Renfroe fouled two balls off his foot three pitches apart Monday. He is projected to miss two-to-three weeks, down from six-to-eight weeks.UP NEXTLHP Nestor Cortes (3-5, 3.68 ERA) starts Thursday’s series finale for the Yankees and RHP Alec Marsh (5-3, 4.05 ERA) for the Royals.___

⚾ Stanton, Trevino and Verdugo homer as Yankees beat Royals

The Hays Larks (4-2, 2-1 RMBL) step out of league play Wednesday night for a matchup with the Kansas Cannons in Augusta.&nbsp;

The Larks had their four game win streak snapped on Tuesday.

First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;

&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh8Z2Gd3zlE">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 (4-2, 2-1 RMBL) step out of league play Wednesday night for a matchup with the Kansas Cannons in Augusta.&nbsp;The Larks had their four game win streak snapped on Tuesday.First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh8Z2Gd3zlE">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 Kansas Cannons

Wednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pm

Wednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmThursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

Hays Post The Dodge City A’s scored three runs in both second and
third innings on their way to the 7-1 win over the Hays Larks Tuesday in Hays.

The Larks lone run came on a wild pitch, with the bases loaded, in the bottom of the eighth inning.&nbsp;

The loss ended the Larks (4-2, 2-1 RMBL) four-game win streak and drops them
to 4-2 on the season. 

The Larks are in Augusta Wednesday for a non-league matchup
with the Kansas Cannons.

Hays Post The Dodge City A’s scored three runs in both second and
third innings on their way to the 7-1 win over the Hays Larks Tuesday in Hays.The Larks lone run came on a wild pitch, with the bases loaded, in the bottom of the eighth inning.&nbsp;The loss ended the Larks (4-2, 2-1 RMBL) four-game win streak and drops them
to 4-2 on the season. The Larks are in Augusta Wednesday for a non-league matchup
with the Kansas Cannons.

⚾Larks come up shorts against the A's

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Aaron Judge hit his major league-leading 25th home run with a 436-foot, two-run drive into the fountain behind the center-field seats, and the New York Yankees routed the Kansas City Royals 10-1 on Tuesday night for their 11th win in 14 games.

Giancarlo Stanton followed Judge in the seventh with a 446-foot shot to center against reliever Nick Anderson for his 16th home run of the season. Austin Wells hit a three-run homer in a four-run fourth off starter Brady Singer.

Back in the lineup after his first game off this season, Judge hit his 21st homer in his last 41 games and also singled in New York’s first run. Judge raised his average to .309 and is hitting .419 with 44 RBIs in his last 35 games after batting .197 through May 2.

“I’m trying not to take that for granted. It’s a lot of fun to witness and to watch what he’s doing on a nightly basis,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “He’s just, obviously — amazing physical talent and tools and ability, but now the experience that thousands of at-bats allow you to have that gets applied with that great talent and this is what you’re seeing.”

Despite lofty stats on the scoreboard each time he steps to the plate, Judge doesn't consider himself a hitter at the level of Barry Bonds, Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera.

“I try not to look up there. Even when I'm hitting .150, I try not to look up there. I try to look at (Juan) Soto's stats,” Judge said. "They're hitting .330, though, .330, 340, which is — that’s pretty impressive. So I don't know if I'll ever get there but we can work towards it, for sure. Yeah, .330 in November, I might feel locked in.”

AL-best New York (48-21) improved to 39-4 when Judge and Stanton homer in the same game, including the playoffs, and to 16-1 against the AL Central this season. The Yankees are a season-best 27 games over .500.

Boone got his 557th victory, moving past Billy Martin into sole possession of seventh among Yankees managers.

Marcus Stroman (6-2) allowed four hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings, boosting his record to 4-0 in his last six starts. Ron Marinaccio struck out Drew Waters, stranding the bases loaded in the sixth.

Soto played right field for the Yankees and went 0 for 2 with a pair of walks before leaving with New York ahead 10-0 in the seventh. After missing the weekend series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation, Soto was the designated hitter Monday and went 1 for 3 with a walk.

Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo returned after consecutive days off and went 0 for 4. He is 1 for 33 in June, dropping his average to .221.

“It’s a grind right now and this is what makes you appreciate the sunny days in this game,” Rizzo said, adding he feels “believe it or not, close.”

“It’s tough going through, but this is part of being a baseball player,” Rizzo said.

Anthony Volpe led off with his seventh triple of the season, Soto walked and Judge followed with an RBI single. Alex Verdugo’s groundout advanced the runners and Soto slid home on Stanton’s grounder to third baseman Maikel Garcia, slapping his left hand on the plate ahead of Salvador Perez’s tag.

Singer (4-3) gave up seven runs — six earned — and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings.

“I just wish I would have obviously made some better pitches there,” he said.

Kansas City has lost 10 of 15 following an eight-game winning streak.

“I’d be surprised if there’s a team that doesn’t go through this,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “They’re going to keep grinding away.”

Freddy Fermin homered off Marinaccio in the eighth. First baseman/outfielder Nick Pratto made his professional pitching debut with a one-hit ninth for Kansas City in his first big league appearance this season.

Royals: Kansas City did not have an update on OF Hunter Renfroe, who fractured his left big toe in the series opener. Renfroe was placed on the 10-day IL and INF Adam Frazier on the bereavement list. The Royals recalled Pratto and Waters from Triple-A Omaha.

Yankees: OF Jasson Domínguez (Tommy John surgery) was 1 for 5 with an RBI single for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and is batting .440 with two homers and three RBIs in six games with the RailRiders.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Aaron Judge hit his major league-leading 25th home run with a 436-foot, two-run drive into the fountain behind the center-field seats, and the New York Yankees routed the Kansas City Royals 10-1 on Tuesday night for their 11th win in 14 games.Giancarlo Stanton followed Judge in the seventh with a 446-foot shot to center against reliever Nick Anderson for his 16th home run of the season. Austin Wells hit a three-run homer in a four-run fourth off starter Brady Singer.Back in the lineup after his first game off this season, Judge hit his 21st homer in his last 41 games and also singled in New York’s first run. Judge raised his average to .309 and is hitting .419 with 44 RBIs in his last 35 games after batting .197 through May 2.“I’m trying not to take that for granted. It’s a lot of fun to witness and to watch what he’s doing on a nightly basis,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. “He’s just, obviously — amazing physical talent and tools and ability, but now the experience that thousands of at-bats allow you to have that gets applied with that great talent and this is what you’re seeing.”Despite lofty stats on the scoreboard each time he steps to the plate, Judge doesn't consider himself a hitter at the level of Barry Bonds, Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera.“I try not to look up there. Even when I'm hitting .150, I try not to look up there. I try to look at (Juan) Soto's stats,” Judge said. "They're hitting .330, though, .330, 340, which is — that’s pretty impressive. So I don't know if I'll ever get there but we can work towards it, for sure. Yeah, .330 in November, I might feel locked in.”AL-best New York (48-21) improved to 39-4 when Judge and Stanton homer in the same game, including the playoffs, and to 16-1 against the AL Central this season. The Yankees are a season-best 27 games over .500.Boone got his 557th victory, moving past Billy Martin into sole possession of seventh among Yankees managers.Marcus Stroman (6-2) allowed four hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings, boosting his record to 4-0 in his last six starts. Ron Marinaccio struck out Drew Waters, stranding the bases loaded in the sixth.Soto played right field for the Yankees and went 0 for 2 with a pair of walks before leaving with New York ahead 10-0 in the seventh. After missing the weekend series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation, Soto was the designated hitter Monday and went 1 for 3 with a walk.Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo returned after consecutive days off and went 0 for 4. He is 1 for 33 in June, dropping his average to .221.“It’s a grind right now and this is what makes you appreciate the sunny days in this game,” Rizzo said, adding he feels “believe it or not, close.”“It’s tough going through, but this is part of being a baseball player,” Rizzo said.Anthony Volpe led off with his seventh triple of the season, Soto walked and Judge followed with an RBI single. Alex Verdugo’s groundout advanced the runners and Soto slid home on Stanton’s grounder to third baseman Maikel Garcia, slapping his left hand on the plate ahead of Salvador Perez’s tag.Singer (4-3) gave up seven runs — six earned — and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings.“I just wish I would have obviously made some better pitches there,” he said.Kansas City has lost 10 of 15 following an eight-game winning streak.“I’d be surprised if there’s a team that doesn’t go through this,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “They’re going to keep grinding away.”Freddy Fermin homered off Marinaccio in the eighth. First baseman/outfielder Nick Pratto made his professional pitching debut with a one-hit ninth for Kansas City in his first big league appearance this season.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: Kansas City did not have an update on OF Hunter Renfroe, who fractured his left big toe in the series opener. Renfroe was placed on the 10-day IL and INF Adam Frazier on the bereavement list. The Royals recalled Pratto and Waters from Triple-A Omaha.Yankees: OF Jasson Domínguez (Tommy John surgery) was 1 for 5 with an RBI single for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and is batting .440 with two homers and three RBIs in six games with the RailRiders.UP NEXT

⚾ Judge hits MLB-best 25th homer as Yankees rout Royals 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718359530579.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

🏈Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce says he wants to keep playing football 'until the wheels come off'

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Hunter Renfroe on the injured list with a fractured toe and infielder Adam Frazier on the bereavement list ahead of the second game of their four-game set against the New York Yankees on Tuesday night.

The Royals recalled outfielder Drew Waters and infielder Nick Pratto from Triple-A Omaha to take their place.

Renfroe was riding a nine-game hitting streak into Monday night's game when he squared off with Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. Renfroe fouled consecutive pitches off his left foot during the 12-pitch at-bat, but nothing appeared to be amiss until the Royals removed him from the game a couple of innings later in an eventual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-score-rodon-ebf3ab63920e46825e3866a5549afcf5">4-2 loss</a>.

Renfroe got off to a slow start this season but had bumped his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.

The Royals had been watching Waters closely at Omaha, where the 25-year-old switch-hitter was hitting .277 with seven homers and 33 RBIs through 50 games. Pratto was hitting .234 with seven homers and 30 RBIs in 53 games there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718114929294.png" alt="File photo Kansas City Royals’ Hunter Renfroe lines out againsts Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase during the ninth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Phil Long)" />
 <figcaption>File photo Kansas City Royals’ Hunter Renfroe lines out againsts Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase during the ninth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Phil Long)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals placed outfielder Hunter Renfroe on the injured list with a fractured toe and infielder Adam Frazier on the bereavement list ahead of the second game of their four-game set against the New York Yankees on Tuesday night.The Royals recalled outfielder Drew Waters and infielder Nick Pratto from Triple-A Omaha to take their place.Renfroe was riding a nine-game hitting streak into Monday night's game when he squared off with Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning. Renfroe fouled consecutive pitches off his left foot during the 12-pitch at-bat, but nothing appeared to be amiss until the Royals removed him from the game a couple of innings later in an eventual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-royals-score-rodon-ebf3ab63920e46825e3866a5549afcf5">4-2 loss</a>.Renfroe got off to a slow start this season but had bumped his batting average to .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs.The Royals had been watching Waters closely at Omaha, where the 25-year-old switch-hitter was hitting .277 with seven homers and 33 RBIs through 50 games. Pratto was hitting .234 with seven homers and 30 RBIs in 53 games there.

Royals put Renfroe on IL with fracture toe

Tuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pm

Tuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmWednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmThursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón pitched shutout ball into the seventh inning in his return to the mound where he hit his low point last September, winning his seventh straight start and leading the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday night.

Juan Soto rejoined the Yankees lineup after missing a three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation. He went 1 for 3 with a run and a walk as the designated hitter.

“I did all my treatment early today and I went to the cages making sure everything went fine and it did,” Soto said. “I've been seeing a lot of improvement. Definitely, it's not going to go away that quick.”

AL-best New York (47-21) won for the 10th time in 13 games and improved to 15-1 against the AL Central. Aaron Boone got his 556th victory, tying Billy Martin for seventh among Yankees managers.

After arriving in Kansas City at 3 a.m. following a Sunday night game in the Bronx, the Yankees gave Aaron Judge his first game off this season and rested slumping Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton.

Rodón (9-2) allowed one run and five hits in seven innings, giving up Freddy Fermin’s RBI single in the seventh. He has a 2.93 ERA in 14 starts.

Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI single in the eighth off Ian Hamilton.

Michael Tonkin worked around a walk in the ninth for his second big league save and first since last year with Atlanta. Yankees closer Clay Holmes pitched three of the previous four days.

A 34-year-old who made his major league debut in 2013, Tonkin was cut by Minnesota and the New York Mets (twice) in April.

“The first month was less than ideal, but to be here now, it's all worth it,” said Tonkin, who has increased his two-seam fastball and slider usage. “It's good to get in a groove and get comfortable and be in a position where I feel like I'm not scared that I'm going to get tapped on the shoulder after every game.”

In the final start of his first Yankees season, Rodón allowed all eight batters he faced to reach base last Sept. 29 in a 12-5 loss that dropped him to 3-8 with a 6.85 ERA in 14 starts.

When pitching coach Matt Blake came out of the dugout in an attempt to get him on track,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-new-york-rodon-ba0bb25e612bbe351f14de4da876a13e">the two exchanged a few words before Rodón turned his back on Blake</a>&nbsp;and gestured for him to return to the dugout, even though the coach was still talking. Rodón blamed himself for feeling frustrated at his performance.

“I knew this game was coming and it was circled on the calendar and I wanted to show up and give my team the best chance to win after coming out of here last year over what happened and not pitching well,” Rodón said. “I tried to flush it early on but it's hard to get that one out of your head. It wasn't just one start. It was a culmination of the whole ‘23 — wasn't so great, so that definitely motivated me.”

Alex Verdugo hit a go-ahead single in a two-run first on a grounder that glanced off the glove of a diving Witt in the shortstop hole. Verdugo scored on DJ LeMahieu’s safety squeeze against Seth Lugo (9-2), one of three sacrifice bunts by the Yankees.

Jose Trevino boosted the lead to 4-0 with a two-run single in the fourth that followed Jahmai Jones’ bunt.

Lugo gave up four runs on eight hits in seven innings and lost for the first time since April 21 after going 6-0 over eight starts. He has allowed nine runs in his last two starts, raising his ERA from 1.72 to 2.36.

“I thought I threw the ball well," Lugo said.

Kansas City has lost nine of 14 following an eight-game winning streak.

Dan Altavilla, a 31-year-old right-hander brought up from Triple-A Omaha, pitched a perfect eighth for the Royals in his first major league appearance since April 16, 2021, for San Diego.

Yankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (right elbow inflammation) is scheduled to make a third minor league rehab start on Friday.

Royals:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-renfroe-royals-broken-toe-36f155848426a6e26e110ac1be4a03ee">RF Hunter Renfroe broke his left big toe</a>&nbsp;when he fouled off two curveballs in the third inning. He played the field in the fourth but was removed at the start of the fifth. ... RHP Michael Wacha (broken left foot) will throw a bullpen Tuesday. ... 2B Michael Massey (sprained lower back) took swings and played catch in his first day of baseball activities since leaving a May 24 game.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón pitched shutout ball into the seventh inning in his return to the mound where he hit his low point last September, winning his seventh straight start and leading the New York Yankees over the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Monday night.Juan Soto rejoined the Yankees lineup after missing a three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers because of left forearm inflammation. He went 1 for 3 with a run and a walk as the designated hitter.“I did all my treatment early today and I went to the cages making sure everything went fine and it did,” Soto said. “I've been seeing a lot of improvement. Definitely, it's not going to go away that quick.”AL-best New York (47-21) won for the 10th time in 13 games and improved to 15-1 against the AL Central. Aaron Boone got his 556th victory, tying Billy Martin for seventh among Yankees managers.After arriving in Kansas City at 3 a.m. following a Sunday night game in the Bronx, the Yankees gave Aaron Judge his first game off this season and rested slumping Anthony Rizzo and Giancarlo Stanton.Rodón (9-2) allowed one run and five hits in seven innings, giving up Freddy Fermin’s RBI single in the seventh. He has a 2.93 ERA in 14 starts.Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI single in the eighth off Ian Hamilton.Michael Tonkin worked around a walk in the ninth for his second big league save and first since last year with Atlanta. Yankees closer Clay Holmes pitched three of the previous four days.A 34-year-old who made his major league debut in 2013, Tonkin was cut by Minnesota and the New York Mets (twice) in April.“The first month was less than ideal, but to be here now, it's all worth it,” said Tonkin, who has increased his two-seam fastball and slider usage. “It's good to get in a groove and get comfortable and be in a position where I feel like I'm not scared that I'm going to get tapped on the shoulder after every game.”In the final start of his first Yankees season, Rodón allowed all eight batters he faced to reach base last Sept. 29 in a 12-5 loss that dropped him to 3-8 with a 6.85 ERA in 14 starts.When pitching coach Matt Blake came out of the dugout in an attempt to get him on track,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yankees-new-york-rodon-ba0bb25e612bbe351f14de4da876a13e">the two exchanged a few words before Rodón turned his back on Blake</a>&nbsp;and gestured for him to return to the dugout, even though the coach was still talking. Rodón blamed himself for feeling frustrated at his performance.“I knew this game was coming and it was circled on the calendar and I wanted to show up and give my team the best chance to win after coming out of here last year over what happened and not pitching well,” Rodón said. “I tried to flush it early on but it's hard to get that one out of your head. It wasn't just one start. It was a culmination of the whole ‘23 — wasn't so great, so that definitely motivated me.”Alex Verdugo hit a go-ahead single in a two-run first on a grounder that glanced off the glove of a diving Witt in the shortstop hole. Verdugo scored on DJ LeMahieu’s safety squeeze against Seth Lugo (9-2), one of three sacrifice bunts by the Yankees.Jose Trevino boosted the lead to 4-0 with a two-run single in the fourth that followed Jahmai Jones’ bunt.Lugo gave up four runs on eight hits in seven innings and lost for the first time since April 21 after going 6-0 over eight starts. He has allowed nine runs in his last two starts, raising his ERA from 1.72 to 2.36.“I thought I threw the ball well," Lugo said.Kansas City has lost nine of 14 following an eight-game winning streak.Dan Altavilla, a 31-year-old right-hander brought up from Triple-A Omaha, pitched a perfect eighth for the Royals in his first major league appearance since April 16, 2021, for San Diego.TRAINER’S ROOMYankees: RHP Gerrit Cole (right elbow inflammation) is scheduled to make a third minor league rehab start on Friday.Royals:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-renfroe-royals-broken-toe-36f155848426a6e26e110ac1be4a03ee">RF Hunter Renfroe broke his left big toe</a>&nbsp;when he fouled off two curveballs in the third inning. He played the field in the fourth but was removed at the start of the fifth. ... RHP Michael Wacha (broken left foot) will throw a bullpen Tuesday. ... 2B Michael Massey (sprained lower back) took swings and played catch in his first day of baseball activities since leaving a May 24 game.UP NEXT

⚾Rodón wins his 7th straight as Yankees top the Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals outfielder Hunter Renfroe fractured his left big toe when he twice fouled off pitches from New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning on Monday night.

Renfroe fouled off seven pitches before striking out in a 12-pitch at-bat. He fouled the fourth pitch, a curveball, off the toe and fell to one knee and grimaced. He walked around in foul territory by the backstop, then stepped back into the batter's box after about 45 seconds.

Two pitches later, Renfroe fouled another curveball off the foot and hopped away from the box. He felt the toe and got back in the box about 40 seconds later.

After striking out, Renfroe went to right field in the fourth inning but was removed at the start of the fifth.

Renfroe, 32, is hitting .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs. A veteran of nine major league seasons, he agreed with Kansas City in December on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-renfroe-contract-be617f9481d4474e22f8886b48ea330d">$13 million, two-year contract</a>.

Renfroe is a .237 career hitter with 183 homers and 480 RBIs for San Diego (2016-19), Toronto (2020), Boston (2021), Milwaukee (2022), the Los Angeles Angels (2023), Cincinnati (2023) and Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718073233917.png" alt="Hunter Renfroe photo KC Royals" />
 <figcaption>Hunter Renfroe photo KC Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Royals outfielder Hunter Renfroe fractured his left big toe when he twice fouled off pitches from New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón in the third inning on Monday night.Renfroe fouled off seven pitches before striking out in a 12-pitch at-bat. He fouled the fourth pitch, a curveball, off the toe and fell to one knee and grimaced. He walked around in foul territory by the backstop, then stepped back into the batter's box after about 45 seconds.Two pitches later, Renfroe fouled another curveball off the foot and hopped away from the box. He felt the toe and got back in the box about 40 seconds later.After striking out, Renfroe went to right field in the fourth inning but was removed at the start of the fifth.Renfroe, 32, is hitting .200 with six homers and 26 RBIs. A veteran of nine major league seasons, he agreed with Kansas City in December on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-renfroe-contract-be617f9481d4474e22f8886b48ea330d">$13 million, two-year contract</a>.Renfroe is a .237 career hitter with 183 homers and 480 RBIs for San Diego (2016-19), Toronto (2020), Boston (2021), Milwaukee (2022), the Los Angeles Angels (2023), Cincinnati (2023) and Kansas City.

Royals' Hunter Renfroe fractures big toe after twice fouling off pitches

Monday, June 10
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
6:30pm

Monday, June 10
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
6:30pmTuesday, June 11
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmWednesday, June 12
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees, 6:30pmThursday, June 13
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. New York Yankees,
12:30pmFriday, June 14
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 8:30pmSaturday, June 15
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 7:30pmSunday, June 16
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers, 2:30pm

The Hays Larks closed out a three-game weekend sweep of the Denver Cougars with a 10-2 win Sunday at Larks Park. 

Wilbert Espinal was three for four
and drove in a pair of runs for the Larks as they won their fourth in a row. 

The
Larks are 2-0 in Rocky Mountain Baseball League play. 

They have Monday off
before hosting the Dodge City A’s in a league game on Tuesday. 

Hays PostThe Hays Larks closed out a three-game weekend sweep of the Denver Cougars with a 10-2 win Sunday at Larks Park. Wilbert Espinal was three for four
and drove in a pair of runs for the Larks as they won their fourth in a row. The
Larks are 2-0 in Rocky Mountain Baseball League play. They have Monday off
before hosting the Dodge City A’s in a league game on Tuesday.

⚾Larks complete sweep of Cougars

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Julio Rodríguez hit a tiebreaking single in the 10th inning, Cal Raleigh added a two-run single and the Seattle Mariners held off the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Sunday to avoid getting swept for the first time this season.

J.P. Crawford hit his second consecutive leadoff homer and George Kirby pitched seven splendid innings for the AL West leaders, who lost the first two games of the weekend series. Seattle squandered a two-run lead in the ninth but recovered to halt Kansas City's three-game winning streak.

MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer off Mariners reliever Mike Baumann (3-0) with two outs in the ninth to tie it 3-all.

Hunter Renfroe launched a two-run homer in the 10th for Kansas City, but it wasn't enough.

With runners at the corners and two outs in the 10th, Rodríguez singled to right field off James McArthur (2-3) to break a 3-all tie. Mitch Garver walked and Raleigh followed with a two-run single to make it 6-3.

Renfroe led off the bottom half with a two-run homer against Austin Voth, and Kyle Isbel singled. But then Voth retired the next two batters, including Bobby Witt Jr., and Taylor Saucedo got Vinnie Pasquantino on a game-ending grounder for his third save.

Making his major league debut, Tyler Locklear broke a 1-all tie with a seventh-inning double and scored on pinch-hitter Josh Rojas’ single to give Seattle a 3-1 lead.

Kirby permitted just two hits over the first four scoreless innings. Freddy Fermin and Renfroe hit consecutive singles in the fifth before Isbel’s squeeze bunt tied the game.

Kirby completed seven innings, allowing a run on five hits with four strikeouts.

Crawford led off with a homer for the second straight game, his 12th career leadoff shot and fifth since 2023 — most in the majors.

It was the first home run given up by Royals starter Cole Ragans since May 11.

Ragans retired 12 of the next 13 batters — eight by strikeout — and finished six innings. He allowed just one run on three hits and a walk, fanning nine.

Seattle placed 1B Ty France on the 10-day injured list with a fractured right heel and called up Locklear from Triple-A Tacoma. RHP Matt Bowman was selected from Tacoma and RHP Collin Snider was optioned to Tacoma. RHPs Levi Stoudt and Eduardo Salazar were designated for assignment.

Mariners RHP Logan Gilbert (3-4, 3.12 ERA) opposes White Sox RHP Erick Fedde (4-1, 3.27) on Monday night at home.

Kansas City had not announced a starter for its series opener at home against LHP Carlos Rodón (8-2, 3.08 ERA) and the New York Yankees.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Julio Rodríguez hit a tiebreaking single in the 10th inning, Cal Raleigh added a two-run single and the Seattle Mariners held off the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Sunday to avoid getting swept for the first time this season.J.P. Crawford hit his second consecutive leadoff homer and George Kirby pitched seven splendid innings for the AL West leaders, who lost the first two games of the weekend series. Seattle squandered a two-run lead in the ninth but recovered to halt Kansas City's three-game winning streak.MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer off Mariners reliever Mike Baumann (3-0) with two outs in the ninth to tie it 3-all.Hunter Renfroe launched a two-run homer in the 10th for Kansas City, but it wasn't enough.With runners at the corners and two outs in the 10th, Rodríguez singled to right field off James McArthur (2-3) to break a 3-all tie. Mitch Garver walked and Raleigh followed with a two-run single to make it 6-3.Renfroe led off the bottom half with a two-run homer against Austin Voth, and Kyle Isbel singled. But then Voth retired the next two batters, including Bobby Witt Jr., and Taylor Saucedo got Vinnie Pasquantino on a game-ending grounder for his third save.Making his major league debut, Tyler Locklear broke a 1-all tie with a seventh-inning double and scored on pinch-hitter Josh Rojas’ single to give Seattle a 3-1 lead.Kirby permitted just two hits over the first four scoreless innings. Freddy Fermin and Renfroe hit consecutive singles in the fifth before Isbel’s squeeze bunt tied the game.Kirby completed seven innings, allowing a run on five hits with four strikeouts.Crawford led off with a homer for the second straight game, his 12th career leadoff shot and fifth since 2023 — most in the majors.It was the first home run given up by Royals starter Cole Ragans since May 11.Ragans retired 12 of the next 13 batters — eight by strikeout — and finished six innings. He allowed just one run on three hits and a walk, fanning nine.TRAINER'S ROOMSeattle placed 1B Ty France on the 10-day injured list with a fractured right heel and called up Locklear from Triple-A Tacoma. RHP Matt Bowman was selected from Tacoma and RHP Collin Snider was optioned to Tacoma. RHPs Levi Stoudt and Eduardo Salazar were designated for assignment.UP NEXTMariners RHP Logan Gilbert (3-4, 3.12 ERA) opposes White Sox RHP Erick Fedde (4-1, 3.27) on Monday night at home.Kansas City had not announced a starter for its series opener at home against LHP Carlos Rodón (8-2, 3.08 ERA) and the New York Yankees.

⚾ Seattle scores 3 in the 10th to hold off the Royals

Sunday, June 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunday, June 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars Saturday&nbsp;at Larks Park.

&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qsIGwcggfI">Larks YouTube channel.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717183089670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Larks host the Denver Cougars Saturday&nbsp;at Larks Park.First pitch for game one is set for 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; You can view the can on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qsIGwcggfI">Larks YouTube channel.</a>Saturday is the annual McKids game.Hays Larks baseball on HaysPost.com is courtesy of the Hays Larks. The broadcast is produced by the Hays Larks

⚾🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays Larks host Denver Cougars

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tiebreaking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/luis-castillo-in-play-run-s-to-vinnie-pasquantino-aeanpa">two-run double</a>&nbsp;during Kansas City’s three-run fifth inning, and the Royals beat the Seattle Mariners 8-4 on Saturday.

Kyle Isbel had three RBIs for Kansas City, and Adam Frazier had two hits and scored two runs. The Royals earned their third consecutive win.

Kansas City trailed 3-2 before Frazier doubled and scored on Nick Loftin’s single in the fifth. With two outs and runners on the corners, Pasquantino slapped a grounder inside the first base bag.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717912050137.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino celebrated with teammates after Saturday's 8-4 win over Seattle. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino celebrated with teammates after Saturday's 8-4 win over Seattle. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tiebreaking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/luis-castillo-in-play-run-s-to-vinnie-pasquantino-aeanpa">two-run double</a>&nbsp;during Kansas City’s three-run fifth inning, and the Royals beat the Seattle Mariners 8-4 on Saturday.Kyle Isbel had three RBIs for Kansas City, and Adam Frazier had two hits and scored two runs. The Royals earned their third consecutive win.Kansas City trailed 3-2 before Frazier doubled and scored on Nick Loftin’s single in the fifth. With two outs and runners on the corners, Pasquantino slapped a grounder inside the first base bag.“Guys seem to be putting together some really nice at-bats right now,” Pasquantino said. “Two-out, runners-in-scoring-position hits, that’s going to win you some games.”J.P. Crawford and Mitch Garver homered for Seattle. Crawford finished with two hits and two RBIs.Mariners right-hander Luis Castillo (5-7) permitted a season-high five runs in five innings. He allowed six hits, struck out four and walked one.“Early in the game, nothing was easy,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said. “They were making him work through at-bats. They got a couple of huge two-out, two-run doubles that spread the gap. We weren’t able to overcome it.”Said Castillo: “Two pitches I kind of left up there and those were the two pitches that cost us the game.”Crawford put Seattle in front when he drilled Alec Marsh’s first pitch of the game for his fifth homer of the season. It was Crawford’s 11th career leadoff homer.“First pitch of the game you’re not really expecting a home run, but I was able to bounce back,” Marsh said.Marsh retired his next 13 batters — eight on strikeouts — before Garver’s seventh homer off the left-field foul pole tied it at 2 with one out in the fifth inning.“He was locating all his stuff,” Garver said. “We put ourselves in poor counts. He was able to strike out eight real quick. Not a lot going for us in the first five.”Three straight two-out singles, capped by Crawford’s grounder through the middle, produced another run for the Mariners.Marsh (5-3) struck out a season-high eight in five-plus innings. He was charged with four runs and seven hits.“His stuff was really good,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That was the best I’ve seen his curveball and sweeper in a long time. Got a lot of swing and miss on it.”Maikel Garcia hit a leadoff single in the first for Kansas City. He stole second and scored on Salvador Perez’s single.“Good at-bats, right from the get-go, making Castillo work,” Quatraro said. “We put pressure on him, no easy outs, right from Maikel’s at-bat to start the game. To get him out of there after five was huge.”Frazier made it 2-1 with a solo drive in the second for his second homer.Isbel extended Kansas City’s lead to 7-4 with a two-run double with two out in the sixth against Kirby Snead. Isbel added a sacrifice fly in the eighth.TRAINER’S ROOMMariners IF Ty France was scratched from the lineup due to soreness in his right heel.UP NEXTMariners RHP George Kirby (5-5, 4.05 ERA) opposes Royals LHP Cole Ragans (4-4, 3.21).