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

Friday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pm

Saturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pm

Sunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Friday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pmSaturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pmSunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Hays Post Sports WICHITA – The Hays Larks scored six runs over the first four
innings and starter Simon Lunsford allowed just one unearned run over six and
two-thirds hitless innings in a 10-4 win over the San Diego Stars Thursday at
Eck Stadium in Wichita.

The Larks scored a run in the first inning on a Jackson
Babcock groundout. They added another single run in the second on a groundout
by CJ Reid. 

Hays’ big inning came in the top of the third inning when Dylan
Larue doubled off the right field wall, scoring two runs, making it 4-0 Larks.
Tabor Stokes added an RBI single for a 5-0 Hay lead through two and a half
innings.

San Diego took advantage of an error by the Larks in the bottom
of the inning, cutting the lead to 5-1, Hays.

In the fourth, Hays’ Thomas Lyssy added to the lead on an
RBI single, making it 6-1 Larks.

After three straight scoreless innings, for both teams, Hays’
Trent Baker doubled in a run in the top of the eighth and then in the ninth,
the Larks scored three more runs for a 10-2 lead.

Paul Smith led off the inning with a triple, and the Larks
followed with a Wibert Espinal RBI single, and a two-out Reid double put Hays
up eight heading into the bottom of the ninth.

San Diego pushed across a pair of runs in the inning,
securing the 10-4 victory.

Nine of the 10 Larks who went to the plate collected at
least one hit. Tabor Stokes had three hits and CJ Reid drove in three runs. 

The Larks have now won 10 straight games at the NBC World
Series and are one win away from getting back to the championship game.

They will take on the Lonestar Kraken at 8:30 p.m. tonight.
Hays beat the Kraken 7-4 in pool play on Monday.

The Hutchinson Monarchs take on the Seattle Cheney Studs in
the other semifinal game on Friday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754052277838.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post Sports WICHITA – The Hays Larks scored six runs over the first four
innings and starter Simon Lunsford allowed just one unearned run over six and
two-thirds hitless innings in a 10-4 win over the San Diego Stars Thursday at
Eck Stadium in Wichita. The Larks scored a run in the first inning on a Jackson
Babcock groundout. They added another single run in the second on a groundout
by CJ Reid. Hays’ big inning came in the top of the third inning when Dylan
Larue doubled off the right field wall, scoring two runs, making it 4-0 Larks.
Tabor Stokes added an RBI single for a 5-0 Hay lead through two and a half
innings.San Diego took advantage of an error by the Larks in the bottom
of the inning, cutting the lead to 5-1, Hays.In the fourth, Hays’ Thomas Lyssy added to the lead on an
RBI single, making it 6-1 Larks.After three straight scoreless innings, for both teams, Hays’
Trent Baker doubled in a run in the top of the eighth and then in the ninth,
the Larks scored three more runs for a 10-2 lead.Paul Smith led off the inning with a triple, and the Larks
followed with a Wibert Espinal RBI single, and a two-out Reid double put Hays
up eight heading into the bottom of the ninth.San Diego pushed across a pair of runs in the inning,
securing the 10-4 victory.Nine of the 10 Larks who went to the plate collected at
least one hit. Tabor Stokes had three hits and CJ Reid drove in three runs. The Larks have now won 10 straight games at the NBC World
Series and are one win away from getting back to the championship game.They will take on the Lonestar Kraken at 8:30 p.m. tonight.
Hays beat the Kraken 7-4 in pool play on Monday.The Hutchinson Monarchs take on the Seattle Cheney Studs in
the other semifinal game on Friday.

⚾Larks advance back to the NBC semifinals with win over Stars

WICHITA - The Hays Larks will take on the San Diego Stars in the quarterfinals of the NBC World Series in Wichita.

The Larks are 3-0 at the NBC and earned a bye to the quarterfinals by winning their pool.

San Diego advanced to the quarterfinals with a win over Lonestar Baseball, 9-7, earlier today.

The game is scheduled to start at approximately 9:30 p.m. at Eck Stadium in Wichita.&nbsp;

You can watch every Larks game from the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcws">NBC World Series</a> on Hays Post thanks
to our sponsors and the NBC.

Hays Larks baseball on Hays Post is brought to you by: Brungardt Hower First Care Clinic Gib’s Auto Supply Glassman Corporation Herrman Physical Therapy Midwest Energy Nex Tech Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hann and Mitch Keeley Shelter Insurance Agents Dustin Schumacher and Todd Keller The ARC of Central Plains Thrift Store M &amp; D Excavating Incorporated Phaze 2

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753331542160.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA - The Hays Larks will take on the San Diego Stars in the quarterfinals of the NBC World Series in Wichita.The Larks are 3-0 at the NBC and earned a bye to the quarterfinals by winning their pool.San Diego advanced to the quarterfinals with a win over Lonestar Baseball, 9-7, earlier today.The game is scheduled to start at approximately 9:30 p.m. at Eck Stadium in Wichita.&nbsp;You can watch every Larks game from the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcws">NBC World Series</a> on Hays Post thanks
to our sponsors and the NBC.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TFaYwthuSyw?si=Oo_MCTIRQG__9eyl" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Hays Larks baseball on Hays Post is brought to you by: Brungardt Hower First Care Clinic Gib’s Auto Supply Glassman Corporation Herrman Physical Therapy Midwest Energy Nex Tech Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hann and Mitch Keeley Shelter Insurance Agents Dustin Schumacher and Todd Keller The ARC of Central Plains Thrift Store M &amp; D Excavating Incorporated Phaze 2

⚾🎥 LIVE: Hays Larks take on San Diego Stars at NBC Word Series

WICHITA – Due to continuing thunder and lightning Wednesday the
6 p.m. single elimination game between Derby and Junction City and the 8:30
p.m. matchup between San Diego and Lonestar have been moved to Thursday.

Now the San Diego and Lonestar game will be play at 9 a.m. Thursday.
The winner will play the Hays Larks in the final game of the day Thursday, scheduled
for approximately 9:30 p.m.

Thursday’s NBC schedule can be found below: 9:00 a.m. San Diego vs. Lonestar 11:30 a.m. Junction City vs. Derby continuation 1:00 p.m. &nbsp;Santa
Barbara vs. Kraken 4:00 p.m. &nbsp;Alaska
Goldpanners vs. Hutchinson Monarchs 7:00 p.m. &nbsp;Seattle vs.
winner of Junction City-Derby

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753969249985.jpeg" alt="Thursday's NBC schedule update" />
 <figcaption>Thursday's NBC schedule update</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – Due to continuing thunder and lightning Wednesday the
6 p.m. single elimination game between Derby and Junction City and the 8:30
p.m. matchup between San Diego and Lonestar have been moved to Thursday.Now the San Diego and Lonestar game will be play at 9 a.m. Thursday.
The winner will play the Hays Larks in the final game of the day Thursday, scheduled
for approximately 9:30 p.m.Thursday’s NBC schedule can be found below: 9:00 a.m. San Diego vs. Lonestar 11:30 a.m. Junction City vs. Derby continuation 1:00 p.m. &nbsp;Santa
Barbara vs. Kraken 4:00 p.m. &nbsp;Alaska
Goldpanners vs. Hutchinson Monarchs 7:00 p.m. &nbsp;Seattle vs.
winner of Junction City-Derby<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753969345354.jpeg" alt="NBC bracket update" />
 <figcaption>NBC bracket update</figcaption>
 </figure>

⚾Updated NBC World Series schedule

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Thursday, July 31
 noneFriday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pmSaturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pmSunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez drove in MJ Melendez with a single leading off the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Wednesday while matching a major league record by using nine total pitchers in the shutout.

Sam Long (1-2) was the last of the relievers for Kansas City. He had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 10th before striking out Sean Murphy and Eli White and getting Luke Williams to line out to left field.

Kansas City put Melendez on second base as a pinch runner in the bottom half, and Perez rapped the second pitch from Daysbel Hernandez (4-2) into the gap in right field to give the Royals the win.

The only other club to use nine pitchers in a shutout was Cleveland, which also did it in a 10-inning game in 2016.

Joey Wentz, claimed off waivers by the Braves earlier this month, dazzled while pitching a mere 25 minutes away from Shawnee Mission East High School, where he put together one of the best prep pitching careers in Kansas history.

The former first-round draft pick has largely failed to live up to expectations, and he carried a 5.76 ERA into his fourth start for Atlanta. But Wentz allowed just one hit and three walks over 6 2/3 innings, striking out seven.

With their rotation ailing, the Royals countered with a contingent of relief pitchers.

Angel Zerpa started on no rest and pitched into the second, and Jonathan Bowlan was their only reliever who retired more than three batters — he went two innings. John Schreiber struck out the side in the fourth, and Hunter Harvey escaped a two-on, no-out jam in the sixth by recording three consecutive outs.

Long's escape in the 10th set up Perez's winning hit in the bottom half.

The low-scoring affair came after the Braves won the series-opener 10-7 and the Royals won 9-6 on Tuesday night.

The Braves have not announced their starter for Thursday in Cincinnati, though newly acquired RHP Carlos Carrasco is likely to get the ball. The Royals have the day off before opening a series Friday night in Toronto.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753917266978.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez drove in MJ Melendez with a single leading off the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Wednesday while matching a major league record by using nine total pitchers in the shutout.Sam Long (1-2) was the last of the relievers for Kansas City. He had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 10th before striking out Sean Murphy and Eli White and getting Luke Williams to line out to left field.Kansas City put Melendez on second base as a pinch runner in the bottom half, and Perez rapped the second pitch from Daysbel Hernandez (4-2) into the gap in right field to give the Royals the win.The only other club to use nine pitchers in a shutout was Cleveland, which also did it in a 10-inning game in 2016.Joey Wentz, claimed off waivers by the Braves earlier this month, dazzled while pitching a mere 25 minutes away from Shawnee Mission East High School, where he put together one of the best prep pitching careers in Kansas history.The former first-round draft pick has largely failed to live up to expectations, and he carried a 5.76 ERA into his fourth start for Atlanta. But Wentz allowed just one hit and three walks over 6 2/3 innings, striking out seven.With their rotation ailing, the Royals countered with a contingent of relief pitchers.Angel Zerpa started on no rest and pitched into the second, and Jonathan Bowlan was their only reliever who retired more than three batters — he went two innings. John Schreiber struck out the side in the fourth, and Hunter Harvey escaped a two-on, no-out jam in the sixth by recording three consecutive outs.<h2>Key moment</h2>Long's escape in the 10th set up Perez's winning hit in the bottom half.<h2>Key stat</h2>The low-scoring affair came after the Braves won the series-opener 10-7 and the Royals won 9-6 on Tuesday night.<h2>Up next</h2>The Braves have not announced their starter for Thursday in Cincinnati, though newly acquired RHP Carlos Carrasco is likely to get the ball. The Royals have the day off before opening a series Friday night in Toronto.

⚾️ Perez's single in 10th lifts Royals over the Braves

WICHITA – As single-elimination bracket play begins Wednesday at the
NBC World Series in Wichita, officials have released the bracket, and the Hays
Larks will take on the winner of the game between the Lonestar Baseball Club
and the San Diego Stars at 6 p.m. Thursday in Wichita.

The Larks won pool A with a perfect 3-0 record and earned a
bye to the quarterfinals.

Lonestar Baseball Club and the San Diego Stars play the
final game of the day on Wednesday.

You can watch every Larks game from the NBC World Series on
Hays Post thanks to our sponsors and the NBC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753886629738.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – As single-elimination bracket play begins Wednesday at the
NBC World Series in Wichita, officials have released the bracket, and the Hays
Larks will take on the winner of the game between the Lonestar Baseball Club
and the San Diego Stars at 6 p.m. Thursday in Wichita.The Larks won pool A with a perfect 3-0 record and earned a
bye to the quarterfinals.Lonestar Baseball Club and the San Diego Stars play the
final game of the day on Wednesday.You can watch every Larks game from the NBC World Series on
Hays Post thanks to our sponsors and the NBC.Hays Larks baseball on Hays Post is brought to you by: Brungardt Hower First Care Clinic Gib’s Auto Supply Glassman Corporation Herrman Physical Therapy Midwest Energy Nex Tech Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hann and Mitch Keeley Shelter Insurance Agents Dustin Schumacher and Todd Keller The ARC of Central Plains Thrift Store M &amp; D Excavating Incorporated Phaze 2

⚾Bracket set for NBC World Series

Wednesday, July 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 12:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Wednesday, July 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 12:30pmThursday, July 31
 noneFriday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pmSaturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pmSunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

NORMAN, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's golf team had four individuals named 2024-25 Cobalt Golf All-America Scholars, announced Tuesday (July 29) by the Golf Coaches Association of America.

Jacob George, Parker Krob, Cooper Scheck and Cole Streck all received the honor this season. FHSU's four honorees were the most in the MIAA and tied for fourth in all Division II behind only Georgia Southwestern, Lander and Saint Leo who had five selections each.

To be eligible for Cobalt Golf All-America Scholar nomination, an individual must be a sophomore, junior or senior both academically and athletically. In addition, they must participate in 50% of their team's competitive rounds, have a stroke average under 78.0 in NCAA Division II, and maintain a minimum cumulative career grade-point average of 3.2. A recipient must also be of high moral character and be in good standing at their college or university.

Jacob George played in 27 rounds on the year, turning in a stroke average of 76.11. He fired four rounds at-or-under par. George completed his degree in finance this spring with a cumulative GPA of 3.54. The Winfield, Kan. native was a CSC Academic All-District pick and was named on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the fourth time.

Parker Krob posted a stroke average of 75.75 as a senior, including a pair of sub-par rounds. He graduated this spring with a degree in biology emphasizing in health professions with a cumulative GPA of 3.54. The Stockton, Kan. native was named to the CSC Academic All-District list for the second time in his career in addition to being listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the fourth time.

Cooper Scheck led the squad with a stroke average of 72.15 across 33 rounds of competition, earning PING All-Central Region honors in addition to picking up his second All-MIAA honor. The junior won the Newman Invitational and turned in six top-10 finishes while finishing at-or-under par in six of his 12 tournaments. Scheck fired 11 sub-par rounds, including a 7-under 64 in the first round of the Hillcat Classic. He continues to maintain a perfect 4.00 GPA as a health and human performance major emphasizing in sport and exercise therapy. He was a second team CSC Academic All-America At-Large selection in addition to earning CSC Academic All-District status for a second time while also earning the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award, the MIAA Academic Excellence Award and a spot on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll.

Cole Streck finished up his career as a Tiger as an All-MIAA selection after turning in a stroke average of 73.9 across 30 events. He tied for second on the team with seven rounds at-or-under par, including a 4-under 67 at the Hillcat Classic. Streck graduated this spring with a degree in finance, finishing with a cumulative GPA of 3.29. The Great Bend, Kan. native picked up his second MIAA Academic Honor Roll recognition this season.

A total of 15 MIAA student-athletes received the honor, including three from Central Missouri, Central Oklahoma and Rogers State and two from Northeastern State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753880447405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNORMAN, Okla. - The Fort Hays State men's golf team had four individuals named 2024-25 Cobalt Golf All-America Scholars, announced Tuesday (July 29) by the Golf Coaches Association of America.Jacob George, Parker Krob, Cooper Scheck and Cole Streck all received the honor this season. FHSU's four honorees were the most in the MIAA and tied for fourth in all Division II behind only Georgia Southwestern, Lander and Saint Leo who had five selections each.To be eligible for Cobalt Golf All-America Scholar nomination, an individual must be a sophomore, junior or senior both academically and athletically. In addition, they must participate in 50% of their team's competitive rounds, have a stroke average under 78.0 in NCAA Division II, and maintain a minimum cumulative career grade-point average of 3.2. A recipient must also be of high moral character and be in good standing at their college or university.Jacob George played in 27 rounds on the year, turning in a stroke average of 76.11. He fired four rounds at-or-under par. George completed his degree in finance this spring with a cumulative GPA of 3.54. The Winfield, Kan. native was a CSC Academic All-District pick and was named on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the fourth time.Parker Krob posted a stroke average of 75.75 as a senior, including a pair of sub-par rounds. He graduated this spring with a degree in biology emphasizing in health professions with a cumulative GPA of 3.54. The Stockton, Kan. native was named to the CSC Academic All-District list for the second time in his career in addition to being listed on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll for the fourth time.Cooper Scheck led the squad with a stroke average of 72.15 across 33 rounds of competition, earning PING All-Central Region honors in addition to picking up his second All-MIAA honor. The junior won the Newman Invitational and turned in six top-10 finishes while finishing at-or-under par in six of his 12 tournaments. Scheck fired 11 sub-par rounds, including a 7-under 64 in the first round of the Hillcat Classic. He continues to maintain a perfect 4.00 GPA as a health and human performance major emphasizing in sport and exercise therapy. He was a second team CSC Academic All-America At-Large selection in addition to earning CSC Academic All-District status for a second time while also earning the MIAA Scholar-Athlete Award, the MIAA Academic Excellence Award and a spot on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll.Cole Streck finished up his career as a Tiger as an All-MIAA selection after turning in a stroke average of 73.9 across 30 events. He tied for second on the team with seven rounds at-or-under par, including a 4-under 67 at the Hillcat Classic. Streck graduated this spring with a degree in finance, finishing with a cumulative GPA of 3.29. The Great Bend, Kan. native picked up his second MIAA Academic Honor Roll recognition this season.A total of 15 MIAA student-athletes received the honor, including three from Central Missouri, Central Oklahoma and Rogers State and two from Northeastern State.

⛳Four FHSU Men's Golfers Collect All-America Scholar Status

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Isbel hit a pivotal three-run double and Vinnie Pasquantino homered as the Kansas City Royals beat Atlanta 9-6 on Tuesday night after Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. exited&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-acuna-jr-injury-ea24ba20c3d1664ba44337fadf4217c1">with tightness in his right Achilles tendon.</a>

Seth Lugo (8-5) won his first start since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-seth-lugo-extension-dc4a058fb1eb5c167e719a246baee7bf">agreeing Monday to a $46 million, two-year contract</a>&nbsp;for 2026 and ’27. Pasquantino finished with three hits and two RBIs.

Bobby Witt Jr. also drove in two runs for the Royals, and Jonathan India had a two-run double.

Marcell Ozuna homered and knocked in three for Atlanta, and Austin Riley also went deep. But right-hander Erick Fedde (3-11) fell behind 4-0 after two innings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/atlanta-braves-grant-holmes-9f9e3897c5ddc25bed63368154a7483c">his Braves debut.</a>

Acuña left in the sixth inning after chasing down a ball in right field. He will be placed on the 10-day injured list, the Braves said.

Pasquantino hit a solo homer in the first, and Isbel gave Kansas City a 7-3 lead with his bases-clearing double in the sixth. Witt added a run-scoring single and Pasquantino an RBI double to make it 9-3.

Lugo took a shutout into the sixth, but got only two more outs. He was charged with three runs and seven hits while striking out five and walking four.

Carlos Estévez, the fifth Royals reliever, got three outs for his 28th save.

With the bases loaded and two outs in the sixth, Hunter Harvey retired Jurickson Profar on a flyball to preserve a 4-3 lead for the Royals before they scored five times in the bottom half.

The Royals have scored at least five runs in seven of their last 11 games, something they accomplished only 21 times prior to the All-Star break.

The Braves will send LHP Joey Wentz (2-2, 5.76 ERA) to the mound on Wednesday. The Royals hadn't announced a scheduled starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753845105172.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kyle Isbel hit a pivotal three-run double and Vinnie Pasquantino homered as the Kansas City Royals beat Atlanta 9-6 on Tuesday night after Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. exited&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-acuna-jr-injury-ea24ba20c3d1664ba44337fadf4217c1">with tightness in his right Achilles tendon.</a>Seth Lugo (8-5) won his first start since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-seth-lugo-extension-dc4a058fb1eb5c167e719a246baee7bf">agreeing Monday to a $46 million, two-year contract</a>&nbsp;for 2026 and ’27. Pasquantino finished with three hits and two RBIs.Bobby Witt Jr. also drove in two runs for the Royals, and Jonathan India had a two-run double.Marcell Ozuna homered and knocked in three for Atlanta, and Austin Riley also went deep. But right-hander Erick Fedde (3-11) fell behind 4-0 after two innings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/atlanta-braves-grant-holmes-9f9e3897c5ddc25bed63368154a7483c">his Braves debut.</a>Michael Harris II had three hits.Acuña left in the sixth inning after chasing down a ball in right field. He will be placed on the 10-day injured list, the Braves said.Pasquantino hit a solo homer in the first, and Isbel gave Kansas City a 7-3 lead with his bases-clearing double in the sixth. Witt added a run-scoring single and Pasquantino an RBI double to make it 9-3.Lugo took a shutout into the sixth, but got only two more outs. He was charged with three runs and seven hits while striking out five and walking four.Carlos Estévez, the fifth Royals reliever, got three outs for his 28th save.<h2>Key moment</h2>With the bases loaded and two outs in the sixth, Hunter Harvey retired Jurickson Profar on a flyball to preserve a 4-3 lead for the Royals before they scored five times in the bottom half.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have scored at least five runs in seven of their last 11 games, something they accomplished only 21 times prior to the All-Star break.<h2>Up next</h2>The Braves will send LHP Joey Wentz (2-2, 5.76 ERA) to the mound on Wednesday. The Royals hadn't announced a scheduled starter.

⚾Isbel and Pasquantino power Royals to win over Braves 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals designated Rich Hill for assignment on Tuesday, a week after the 45-year-old left-hander pitched in the first game of his 21st big league season.

Hill went 0-2 with a 5.00 ERA in two starts with Kansas City. The Royals were his 14th team, matching Edwin Jackson for the major league record.

Kansas City also brought up right-hander Thomas Hatch from Triple-A Omaha before its game against Atlanta.

Hill allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">in a 6-0 loss</a>&nbsp;at the Chicago Cubs a week ago. He became the oldest player to start a major league game since May 27, 2012, when lefty Jamie Moyer tossed his final game with Colorado at age 49.

He also started for Kansas City on Monday against Atlanta, issuing six walks while surrendering four runs in four innings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-royals-score-walks-20894eb2401d925d07c0a0287b3e105b">in a 10-7 loss</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753880458416.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Monday, July 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Monday, July 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals designated Rich Hill for assignment on Tuesday, a week after the 45-year-old left-hander pitched in the first game of his 21st big league season.Hill went 0-2 with a 5.00 ERA in two starts with Kansas City. The Royals were his 14th team, matching Edwin Jackson for the major league record.Kansas City also brought up right-hander Thomas Hatch from Triple-A Omaha before its game against Atlanta.Hill allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">in a 6-0 loss</a>&nbsp;at the Chicago Cubs a week ago. He became the oldest player to start a major league game since May 27, 2012, when lefty Jamie Moyer tossed his final game with Colorado at age 49.He also started for Kansas City on Monday against Atlanta, issuing six walks while surrendering four runs in four innings&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-royals-score-walks-20894eb2401d925d07c0a0287b3e105b">in a 10-7 loss</a>.

⚾Kansas City Royals designate 45-year-old LHP Rich Hill for assignment

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Wide receiver Marquise Brown was among several Kansas City Chiefs who left practice with an injury Tuesday, when the nearly 2 1/2-hour workout was conducted in temperatures that produced a triple-digit heat index by its conclusion.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid said that Brown, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, had hurt his ankle early in the practice. Brown was sitting up while he was driven in a cart from the practice fields to the locker room.

“I haven't seen him yet but they took him up. I don't think it's too bad but we'll see,” Reid said.

“Hollywood” Brown was among several wide receivers who got dinged up. Second-year standout Xavier Worthy “banged his head,” Reid said, but returned to the practice field. And 2022 second-round pick Skyy Moore, who at this point appears to be a longshot to make the roster out of training camp, also left practice with a hamstring injury.

Others who missed time included fifth-round pick Jeffrey Bassa (ankle sprain), tight end Jake Briningstool (hamstring), linebacker Cooper McDonald (illness) and defensive backs Deon Bush (hamstring), Eric Scott Jr. (hamstring) and Darius Rush (hamstring).

Kristian Fulton, who signed a two-year, $20 million deal in free agency, remains on the PUP list with a knee issue.

“It's hard work. You're out there in the heat. It's tough," said Reid, who soaked through his windbreaker with sweat, “but the guys battled through. I appreciate the tempo they set and all the energy that they gave.”

In one case, a bit too much energy. First-round pick Josh Simmons, who appears to have the inside track on the starting left tackle spot, got into a shoving match with third-round choice Ashton Gillotte, who is trying to earn snaps at defensive end. The dust-up led to a couple of punches being thrown before Reid and other players intervened.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Wide receiver Marquise Brown was among several Kansas City Chiefs who left practice with an injury Tuesday, when the nearly 2 1/2-hour workout was conducted in temperatures that produced a triple-digit heat index by its conclusion.Chiefs coach Andy Reid said that Brown, who missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, had hurt his ankle early in the practice. Brown was sitting up while he was driven in a cart from the practice fields to the locker room.“I haven't seen him yet but they took him up. I don't think it's too bad but we'll see,” Reid said.“Hollywood” Brown was among several wide receivers who got dinged up. Second-year standout Xavier Worthy “banged his head,” Reid said, but returned to the practice field. And 2022 second-round pick Skyy Moore, who at this point appears to be a longshot to make the roster out of training camp, also left practice with a hamstring injury.Others who missed time included fifth-round pick Jeffrey Bassa (ankle sprain), tight end Jake Briningstool (hamstring), linebacker Cooper McDonald (illness) and defensive backs Deon Bush (hamstring), Eric Scott Jr. (hamstring) and Darius Rush (hamstring).Kristian Fulton, who signed a two-year, $20 million deal in free agency, remains on the PUP list with a knee issue.“It's hard work. You're out there in the heat. It's tough," said Reid, who soaked through his windbreaker with sweat, “but the guys battled through. I appreciate the tempo they set and all the energy that they gave.”In one case, a bit too much energy. First-round pick Josh Simmons, who appears to have the inside track on the starting left tackle spot, got into a shoving match with third-round choice Ashton Gillotte, who is trying to earn snaps at defensive end. The dust-up led to a couple of punches being thrown before Reid and other players intervened.

🏈Chiefs' Marquise Brown among several players injured in sweltering training camp practice

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Nearly six years ago, when the Kansas City Chiefs were just beginning their rise to prominence, Chris Jones tweaked a muscle in practice bad enough that coach Andy Reid made the difficult decision to hold him out of a playoff game against Houston.

Jones wanted to play. In fact, he tried to push through the injury in warmups. But Reid was steadfast, and the Chiefs didn't need him in the end. After spotting the Texans a 24-0 lead, Patrick Mahomes &amp; Co. caught fire, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1129919fad337ff1d482dc02cb5a4059">Kansas City rolled to a 51-31 victory</a>. And when Jones returned the next week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6dc66c81f740e1534e351b8250791c2f#:~:text=By%20DAVE%20SKRETTA,the%20Chiefs%20in%20Week%2010.">the Chiefs handily beat the Titans</a>&nbsp;for the AFC championship — two wins that ultimately propelled them to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-49ers-sports-general-super-bowl-football-ap-top-news-8f6178fbfa3844677b5fc374bc53b80f">their first Super Bowl title</a>&nbsp;in five decades.

It turns out the backstory to the injury explains a lot about why Jones, now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-chris-jones-5f562ac65a27dda647fe94a39df9d7e9">a 31-year-old veteran</a>&nbsp;preparing for his 10th season in the league, has become a three-time All-Pro and one of the game's premier defensive players.

He's competitive. He's relentless. And he doesn't suffer fools gladly.

You see, in practice, hitting the quarterback is strictly verboten. It's why QBs usually wear a different-colored jersey, yellow in the case of Kansas City. Yet pulling back as a defender whose instincts are honed to bring down whomever has the ball can be a difficult challenge, even more so when it's Patrick Mahomes dancing around the pocket, almost as if he's mocking you.

“So we were in a battle,” Jones recalled, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-training-camp-3bda8270013a5f3376dcf92b20644c4f">a recent training camp practice</a>&nbsp;in the brutal heat and humidity that seems to engulf Missouri Western State University this time of year, "and I had to show Pat that I can really catch you.

“I just chill,” — usually, Jones added— “because we have to stay 5 to 10 yards away from the quarterback. And it got serious one day, and I ended up pulling a (muscle). And I was like: ‘You know what, Pat? You got it.’”

Yes, the affable Jones had been so competitive that, even in a midweek practice against his own teammates, he managed to hurt himself before what to that point had been the most important game of a championship season.

“Now,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said, “we've got a special rule for Chris on that.”

The so-called Chris Rule is quite simple: Once he beats the offensive line in practice, he must stand there.

“Patrick does some crazy stuff back there. It gets very competitive,” Jones said, sounding downright exasperated. “You know you can't touch the quarterback, so the quarterback can stand and hold the ball for five or six seconds during the play.”

You can see how that could become annoying. Even infuriating.

Fortunately for Jones, there are no Chris Rules when games begin. And that is decidedly unfortunate for opposing QBs, who have become keenly aware of his game-wrecking ability. Jones followed a 15 1/2-sack season three years ago and 10 1/2 the next with five sacks last season, a number made more modest only because the 6-foot-6, 310-pound Jones was faced with constant double- and triple-teams, and those in turn allowed many of his teammates to get to the quarterback instead.

George Karlaftis had eight sacks last season, helping to earn him a four-year, $93 million deal a couple of weeks ago. Tershawn Wharton produced a career-best 6 1/2, which earned him a three-year, $30 million contract with Carolina.

“I've watched (Jones) over the years,” said Jerry Tillery, who signed with the Chiefs in the offseason to play alongside him, “and that's somebody at the top of our game who's doing it the best. To watch this guy work and to be with him — I think that type of player is somebody who can raise everybody's level.”

Jones acknowledged that his game has had to evolve over the years, especially the past six, since those days of trying to chase Mahomes around practice. He still is one of the strongest players in the league, capable of beating a woebegone offensive lineman with brute force, but he now has the priceless benefit of experience on his side.

His explosive athletic ability paired with some nuance and craft has made for quite a combination.

“I mean, he’s as dynamic as they come,” Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady said.

On the superheated training fields of Missouri Western, about an hour's drive north of Arrowhead Stadium, that dynamism can still last only as long as it takes Jones to beat the man in front of him — sometimes a fraction of a second. Then, according to the Chris Rules, Jones will dutifully stand up and watch the rest of the play unfold.

“Over time,” Jones said, “you get to see the younger guys are faster. You're a little slower. You don't move the same. So you have to cherish these moments. Cherish these individuals you get to battle with every day, and enjoy the practice.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753815224654.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones acknowledges fans as he jogs between drills during Back Together Weekend at the team's NFL football training camp, Sunday, July 27, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones acknowledges fans as he jogs between drills during Back Together Weekend at the team's NFL football training camp, Sunday, July 27, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Nearly six years ago, when the Kansas City Chiefs were just beginning their rise to prominence, Chris Jones tweaked a muscle in practice bad enough that coach Andy Reid made the difficult decision to hold him out of a playoff game against Houston.Jones wanted to play. In fact, he tried to push through the injury in warmups. But Reid was steadfast, and the Chiefs didn't need him in the end. After spotting the Texans a 24-0 lead, Patrick Mahomes &amp; Co. caught fire, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1129919fad337ff1d482dc02cb5a4059">Kansas City rolled to a 51-31 victory</a>. And when Jones returned the next week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6dc66c81f740e1534e351b8250791c2f#:~:text=By%20DAVE%20SKRETTA,the%20Chiefs%20in%20Week%2010.">the Chiefs handily beat the Titans</a>&nbsp;for the AFC championship — two wins that ultimately propelled them to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-49ers-sports-general-super-bowl-football-ap-top-news-8f6178fbfa3844677b5fc374bc53b80f">their first Super Bowl title</a>&nbsp;in five decades.It turns out the backstory to the injury explains a lot about why Jones, now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-chris-jones-5f562ac65a27dda647fe94a39df9d7e9">a 31-year-old veteran</a>&nbsp;preparing for his 10th season in the league, has become a three-time All-Pro and one of the game's premier defensive players.He's competitive. He's relentless. And he doesn't suffer fools gladly.You see, in practice, hitting the quarterback is strictly verboten. It's why QBs usually wear a different-colored jersey, yellow in the case of Kansas City. Yet pulling back as a defender whose instincts are honed to bring down whomever has the ball can be a difficult challenge, even more so when it's Patrick Mahomes dancing around the pocket, almost as if he's mocking you.“So we were in a battle,” Jones recalled, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-training-camp-3bda8270013a5f3376dcf92b20644c4f">a recent training camp practice</a>&nbsp;in the brutal heat and humidity that seems to engulf Missouri Western State University this time of year, "and I had to show Pat that I can really catch you.“I just chill,” — usually, Jones added— “because we have to stay 5 to 10 yards away from the quarterback. And it got serious one day, and I ended up pulling a (muscle). And I was like: ‘You know what, Pat? You got it.’”Yes, the affable Jones had been so competitive that, even in a midweek practice against his own teammates, he managed to hurt himself before what to that point had been the most important game of a championship season.“Now,” Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said, “we've got a special rule for Chris on that.”The so-called Chris Rule is quite simple: Once he beats the offensive line in practice, he must stand there.Just stand there.“Patrick does some crazy stuff back there. It gets very competitive,” Jones said, sounding downright exasperated. “You know you can't touch the quarterback, so the quarterback can stand and hold the ball for five or six seconds during the play.”You can see how that could become annoying. Even infuriating.Fortunately for Jones, there are no Chris Rules when games begin. And that is decidedly unfortunate for opposing QBs, who have become keenly aware of his game-wrecking ability. Jones followed a 15 1/2-sack season three years ago and 10 1/2 the next with five sacks last season, a number made more modest only because the 6-foot-6, 310-pound Jones was faced with constant double- and triple-teams, and those in turn allowed many of his teammates to get to the quarterback instead.George Karlaftis had eight sacks last season, helping to earn him a four-year, $93 million deal a couple of weeks ago. Tershawn Wharton produced a career-best 6 1/2, which earned him a three-year, $30 million contract with Carolina.“I've watched (Jones) over the years,” said Jerry Tillery, who signed with the Chiefs in the offseason to play alongside him, “and that's somebody at the top of our game who's doing it the best. To watch this guy work and to be with him — I think that type of player is somebody who can raise everybody's level.”Jones acknowledged that his game has had to evolve over the years, especially the past six, since those days of trying to chase Mahomes around practice. He still is one of the strongest players in the league, capable of beating a woebegone offensive lineman with brute force, but he now has the priceless benefit of experience on his side.His explosive athletic ability paired with some nuance and craft has made for quite a combination.“I mean, he’s as dynamic as they come,” Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady said.In games, anyway.On the superheated training fields of Missouri Western, about an hour's drive north of Arrowhead Stadium, that dynamism can still last only as long as it takes Jones to beat the man in front of him — sometimes a fraction of a second. Then, according to the Chris Rules, Jones will dutifully stand up and watch the rest of the play unfold.“Over time,” Jones said, “you get to see the younger guys are faster. You're a little slower. You don't move the same. So you have to cherish these moments. Cherish these individuals you get to battle with every day, and enjoy the practice.”

🏈Chiefs' Chris Jones: The backstory behind the 'Chris Rule,' and what's made him a three-time All-Pro

COLBY&nbsp;—&nbsp;Colby Community College is proud to announce the hiring of Sandra Glover as the new head coach for the Trojan Track and Field program.

Glover is a former Olympian, world medalist, and decorated collegiate coach who brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and championship pedigree to Colby's athletics department.

A 2000 U.S. Olympian and University of Houston graduate, Glover boasts an exceptional resume as both an athlete and a coach. She is a World Championships silver medalist (2003) and bronze medalist (2005) in the 400-meter hurdles and was a four-time USA Track &amp; Field Trials Champion (1999–2002). Glover was also an NCAA All-American in 1991 during her collegiate career.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Glover to Colby," said Colby Athletic Director Kenny Hernandez. "Her background as an elite competitor and a mentor to dozens of high-performing student-athletes makes her the perfect fit to lead our program. Her commitment to academic and athletic excellence aligns with the mission of Colby Community College."

Glover most recently served as an assistant track &amp; field coach at Western New Mexico University, where she oversaw sprints, hurdles, jumps, and mid-distance events. Prior to that, she spent five highly successful years at her alma mater, the University of Houston (2019–2024), coaching long sprinters, hurdlers, and middle-distance athletes.

During her tenure with the Cougars, she played a key role in developing elite talent, coaching nine NCAA First Team All-Americans, four NCAA Second Team All-Americans, and seven NCAA National Qualifiers. She also guided three athletes to Big 12 Conference championships and helped produce 30 American Conference First Team selections.

Among her standout athletes was Kelly-Ann Beckford, the 2024 Big 12 Female Indoor Athlete of the Year, who set a University of Houston school record in the 800m with a time of 2:00.70. She also coached Sydni Townsend, who represented Houston in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials and is the program's 400m hurdles record holder (55.00). Another standout, Lloyd Frilot, captured the American Conference 800m title and school record under Glover's guidance.

Before her time at Houston, Glover coached at Alcorn State University (2015–2018), where she produced two SWAC Conference Champions and helped set 11 school records, and Prairie View A&amp;M University (2014–2015), where she focused on sprints, hurdles, and jumps. She began her collegiate coaching journey at Houston Christian University (2011–2013) as a volunteer assistant.

When asked about what excites her about this new opportunity, Glover shared, "At the junior college level, you're building a foundation. You're preparing student-athletes for the next step in their journey, and it's important to develop a strong, competitive product that encourages four-year coaches to keep coming back for more."

Glover is a USATF Level 1 certified coach and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston (1993). Beyond her athletic and coaching accolades, she brings strong leadership skills and a passion for mentorship. She is known for fostering student-athlete development both on the track and in the classroom, emphasizing effective communication, goal setting, and accountability.

Looking ahead, Glover expressed her vision for the program, stating, "I'm excited to develop exceptional talent and help elevate Colby into a highly respected and competitive program."

At Colby, Glover will lead both the men's and women's track &amp; field programs. She will be responsible for recruiting, training, competition scheduling, and building on the Trojans' growing tradition of athletic and academic success.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753797210784.jpeg" alt="Sandra Glover. Photo by Colby Community College" />
 <figcaption>Sandra Glover. Photo by Colby Community College</figcaption>
 </figure>Colby Community CollegeCOLBY&nbsp;—&nbsp;Colby Community College is proud to announce the hiring of Sandra Glover as the new head coach for the Trojan Track and Field program. Glover is a former Olympian, world medalist, and decorated collegiate coach who brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and championship pedigree to Colby's athletics department.A 2000 U.S. Olympian and University of Houston graduate, Glover boasts an exceptional resume as both an athlete and a coach. She is a World Championships silver medalist (2003) and bronze medalist (2005) in the 400-meter hurdles and was a four-time USA Track &amp; Field Trials Champion (1999–2002). Glover was also an NCAA All-American in 1991 during her collegiate career."We are excited to welcome Coach Glover to Colby," said Colby Athletic Director Kenny Hernandez. "Her background as an elite competitor and a mentor to dozens of high-performing student-athletes makes her the perfect fit to lead our program. Her commitment to academic and athletic excellence aligns with the mission of Colby Community College."Glover most recently served as an assistant track &amp; field coach at Western New Mexico University, where she oversaw sprints, hurdles, jumps, and mid-distance events. Prior to that, she spent five highly successful years at her alma mater, the University of Houston (2019–2024), coaching long sprinters, hurdlers, and middle-distance athletes.During her tenure with the Cougars, she played a key role in developing elite talent, coaching nine NCAA First Team All-Americans, four NCAA Second Team All-Americans, and seven NCAA National Qualifiers. She also guided three athletes to Big 12 Conference championships and helped produce 30 American Conference First Team selections.Among her standout athletes was Kelly-Ann Beckford, the 2024 Big 12 Female Indoor Athlete of the Year, who set a University of Houston school record in the 800m with a time of 2:00.70. She also coached Sydni Townsend, who represented Houston in the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials and is the program's 400m hurdles record holder (55.00). Another standout, Lloyd Frilot, captured the American Conference 800m title and school record under Glover's guidance.Before her time at Houston, Glover coached at Alcorn State University (2015–2018), where she produced two SWAC Conference Champions and helped set 11 school records, and Prairie View A&amp;M University (2014–2015), where she focused on sprints, hurdles, and jumps. She began her collegiate coaching journey at Houston Christian University (2011–2013) as a volunteer assistant.When asked about what excites her about this new opportunity, Glover shared, "At the junior college level, you're building a foundation. You're preparing student-athletes for the next step in their journey, and it's important to develop a strong, competitive product that encourages four-year coaches to keep coming back for more."Glover is a USATF Level 1 certified coach and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston (1993). Beyond her athletic and coaching accolades, she brings strong leadership skills and a passion for mentorship. She is known for fostering student-athlete development both on the track and in the classroom, emphasizing effective communication, goal setting, and accountability.Looking ahead, Glover expressed her vision for the program, stating, "I'm excited to develop exceptional talent and help elevate Colby into a highly respected and competitive program."At Colby, Glover will lead both the men's and women's track &amp; field programs. She will be responsible for recruiting, training, competition scheduling, and building on the Trojans' growing tradition of athletic and academic success.

Olympian Sandra Glover hired as head track and field coach

WICHITA – The Hays Larks remained unbeaten at the NBC World
Series in Wichita Monday as they knocked off the Lonestar Kracken 7-4, in a
battle of 2-0 teams, and claimed a first-round bye with a 3-0 record. 

The Larks (31-4-1) jumped out early, scoring three runs in
the first inning, taking advantage of three walks and a hit by pitch. They
scored single runs on a hit by pitch by Lorenzo Rios, a bases-loaded walk by
Kaleb Duncan and a ground out by Thomas Lyssy.

Nolan Wilson got the start for the Larks and held the
Kracken bats at bay. He didn’t allow a run until the top of the fifth and then
was lifted in the sixth. He allowed three runs on five hits, five walks and
three strikeouts in five plus innings.

The Larks led 3-1 through four and a half innings before
adding two more in the bottom of the fifth. Lyssy drove in his second run of
the game on a sacrifice fly, and Tabor Stokes doubled in a run, making it 5-1
Larks.

The Kracken scored two runs in the sixth inning, cutting the
Larks' lead to 5-3.

Hays’ Jackson Babcock added a sacrifice fly in the bottom of
the sixth for a 6-3.

Lonestar got another run back in the top of the seventh, but
Hays answered with a run on a wild pitch for a 7-4 lead.

Six different Larks collected one hit each.

Thomas Lyssy drove in two runs for the Larks. 

Hays, by winning pool A, gets a bye in the first round of
single elimination, which begins on Wednesday. 

Hays Post SportsWICHITA – The Hays Larks remained unbeaten at the NBC World
Series in Wichita Monday as they knocked off the Lonestar Kracken 7-4, in a
battle of 2-0 teams, and claimed a first-round bye with a 3-0 record. The Larks (31-4-1) jumped out early, scoring three runs in
the first inning, taking advantage of three walks and a hit by pitch. They
scored single runs on a hit by pitch by Lorenzo Rios, a bases-loaded walk by
Kaleb Duncan and a ground out by Thomas Lyssy.Nolan Wilson got the start for the Larks and held the
Kracken bats at bay. He didn’t allow a run until the top of the fifth and then
was lifted in the sixth. He allowed three runs on five hits, five walks and
three strikeouts in five plus innings.The Larks led 3-1 through four and a half innings before
adding two more in the bottom of the fifth. Lyssy drove in his second run of
the game on a sacrifice fly, and Tabor Stokes doubled in a run, making it 5-1
Larks.The Kracken scored two runs in the sixth inning, cutting the
Larks' lead to 5-3.Hays’ Jackson Babcock added a sacrifice fly in the bottom of
the sixth for a 6-3.Lonestar got another run back in the top of the seventh, but
Hays answered with a run on a wild pitch for a 7-4 lead.Nolan Wilson earned the victory.Six different Larks collected one hit each.Thomas Lyssy drove in two runs for the Larks. Hays, by winning pool A, gets a bye in the first round of
single elimination, which begins on Wednesday.

⚾Larks knock off Kraken, clinch 1st round bye

Tuesday, July 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tuesday, July 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 6:00pmWednesday, July 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 12:30pmThursday, July 31
 noneFriday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pmSaturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pmSunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ronald Acuña Jr., Marcell Ozuna and Austin Riley homered as the Atlanta Braves snapped a five-game losing streak with a 10-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals, who equaled a club record by walking 14 batters Monday night.

It was the fourth time the Royals walked 14 and the first since 2006.

Acuña hit a two-run homer, his 14th, in the third and an inning later Ozuna added another two-run shot, also his 14th. Riley hit a solo homer, his 15th, in the seventh — and his three-run double in the eighth made it 9-3.

Spencer Strider (5-8) pitched five innings, giving up two runs on seven hits and two walks with three strikeouts. Raisel Iglesias squelched a Royals rally in the ninth for his 12th save.

Six of Kansas City's walks were issued by Rich Hill (0-2), who went four innings and gave up four runs and four hits. It was the second start of 2025 for the 45-year-old Hill after making his season debut with the Royals last Tuesday. It was also Hill’s 250th career start and 388th appearance in his 21st season.

Randal Grichuk hit his eighth homer, his first with the Royals since being acquired from Arizona on Saturday. Bobby Witt Jr. hit two doubles and leads the majors with 36. Maikel Garcia had two doubles among his three hits.

Royals catcher Salvador Perez was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-royals-salvador-perez-9a119dc57d34070ee0714048fff93a6b">hit on the left elbow by a pitch</a>&nbsp;in the third and later left the game with a bruise.

After the Royals scored two runs with none out in the ninth, Iglesias came in and gave up a sacrifice fly before securing the victory.

The Braves had nine hits, six for extra bases.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ronald Acuña Jr., Marcell Ozuna and Austin Riley homered as the Atlanta Braves snapped a five-game losing streak with a 10-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals, who equaled a club record by walking 14 batters Monday night.It was the fourth time the Royals walked 14 and the first since 2006.Acuña hit a two-run homer, his 14th, in the third and an inning later Ozuna added another two-run shot, also his 14th. Riley hit a solo homer, his 15th, in the seventh — and his three-run double in the eighth made it 9-3.Spencer Strider (5-8) pitched five innings, giving up two runs on seven hits and two walks with three strikeouts. Raisel Iglesias squelched a Royals rally in the ninth for his 12th save.Six of Kansas City's walks were issued by Rich Hill (0-2), who went four innings and gave up four runs and four hits. It was the second start of 2025 for the 45-year-old Hill after making his season debut with the Royals last Tuesday. It was also Hill’s 250th career start and 388th appearance in his 21st season.Randal Grichuk hit his eighth homer, his first with the Royals since being acquired from Arizona on Saturday. Bobby Witt Jr. hit two doubles and leads the majors with 36. Maikel Garcia had two doubles among his three hits.Royals catcher Salvador Perez was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-royals-salvador-perez-9a119dc57d34070ee0714048fff93a6b">hit on the left elbow by a pitch</a>&nbsp;in the third and later left the game with a bruise.<h2>Key moment</h2>After the Royals scored two runs with none out in the ninth, Iglesias came in and gave up a sacrifice fly before securing the victory.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Braves had nine hits, six for extra bases.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾Acuña, Ozuna and Riley homer as Braves beat the Royals

WICHITA - The Hays Larks will look to remain unbeaten in pool play and move to 3-0 at the NBC World Series Monday night as they take on the Lonestar Kracken. 

Lonestar is also 2-0 after a pair of run-rule victories. 

Monday’s game is scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m. at Eck
Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753331542160.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA - The Hays Larks will look to remain unbeaten in pool play and move to 3-0 at the NBC World Series Monday night as they take on the Lonestar Kracken. Lonestar is also 2-0 after a pair of run-rule victories. Monday’s game is scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m. at Eck
Stadium.You can watch every Larks game from the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcws">NBC World Series</a> on Hays Post thanks
to our sponsors and the NBC.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/32jCeB6uSPA?si=ocYeU06ZRi4yldlc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Hays Larks baseball on Hays Post is brought to you by: Brungardt Hower First Care Clinic Gib’s Auto Supply Glassman Corporation Herrman Physical Therapy Midwest Energy Nex Tech Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hann and Mitch Keeley Shelter Insurance Agents Dustin Schumacher and Todd Keller The ARC of Central Plains Thrift Store M &amp; D Excavating Incorporated Phaze 2

⚾🎥 LIVE: Hays Larks take on Lonestar Kracken at NBC Word Series

The MIAA held it's annual media day Monday at Emporia State University.

Fort Hays State coach Chris Brown, quarterback Caleb Heavner and linebacker John Johnson address the media.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753724824000.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post SportsThe MIAA held it's annual media day Monday at Emporia State University.Fort Hays State coach Chris Brown, quarterback Caleb Heavner and linebacker John Johnson address the media.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LICDhC_tCio?si=xs4ddhsOd6jm36u2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🏈🎥Fort Hays State football at MIAA Media Day

EMPORIA, Kan. – Fort Hays State Football was tabbed third in both the MIAA Preseason Coaches and Media Polls, released on Monday (July 28) at MIAA Football Media Day. The Tigers are picked where they finished last year in the standings, coming off an 8-3 overall, 6-3 MIAA performance in 2024.

Fort Hays State tied for third in the MIAA regular season standings with Central Missouri, both at 6-3. The Tigers were right on the cut line of getting into the NCAA Playoffs, ranked eighth in the final super region rankings release as the top seven teams were selected to the playoffs. The Tigers defeated Central Missouri head-to-head in Hays last year and got the nod for the higher spot in the preseason polls with Central Missouri listed fourth in both.

Central Oklahoma and Pittsburg State led the way in both polls, coming off NCAA playoff appearances in 2024. UCO was picked first in the coaches poll, while PSU slightly edged UCO for first in the media poll despite UCO having more first-place votes. Central Oklahoma was the MIAA champion in 2024 with an 8-1 conference mark and went on to finish the year 12-2 overall by advancing to the Round of 16 in the NCAA playoffs. Pittsburg State finished 2024 8-3 overall after going 7-2 in MIAA action. The Gorillas lost their opening game of the NCAA playoffs.

Fort Hays State returns seven of its regular starters from the 2024 season on offense, but just four on defense. FHSU had the third-best scoring offense and fourth-best total offense in the MIAA last year, but backed it with the best scoring defense and second-best total defense in the conference. The Tigers return six All-MIAA selections from last year's squad in 2025. The group includes Josh Shaw (OL), Porter Dannevik (OL), Cale Cormaney (TE), and Caleb Heavner (QB) on offense, and John Johnson (LB) and Gaven Haselhorst (DL) on defense.

For the second-straight year, Fort Hays State will open with Angelo State at home on Thursday, August 28. The Tigers will have five home games throughout the 2025 regular season, which includes two in September, one in October, and one in November. The Tigers start with two non-conference games (one home, one away) before jumping into MIAA play for its final nine games of the regular season.

Below are the MIAA Football Preseason Polls

2025 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Oklahoma [7] – 78 points 2. Pittsburg State [3] – 75 points 3. Fort Hays State – 62 points 4. Central Missouri – 57 points 5. Emporia State – 50 points 6. Northwest Missouri – 41 points 7. Missouri Western – 29 points 8. Nebraska Kearney – 28 points 9. Washburn – 21 points 10. Missouri Southern – 9 points [#] - Number of First Place Votes

2025 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Pittsburg State [13] – 310 points 2. Central Oklahoma [18] – 307 points 3. Fort Hays State [2] – 271 points 4. Central Missouri [1] – 239 points 5. Northwest Missouri – 215 points 6. Emporia State – 167 points 7. Nebraska Kearney – 120 points 8. Missouri Western – 107 points 9. Washburn – 88 points 10. Missouri Southern – 46 points [#] - Number of First Place Votes

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753714264021.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsEMPORIA, Kan. – Fort Hays State Football was tabbed third in both the MIAA Preseason Coaches and Media Polls, released on Monday (July 28) at MIAA Football Media Day. The Tigers are picked where they finished last year in the standings, coming off an 8-3 overall, 6-3 MIAA performance in 2024.Fort Hays State tied for third in the MIAA regular season standings with Central Missouri, both at 6-3. The Tigers were right on the cut line of getting into the NCAA Playoffs, ranked eighth in the final super region rankings release as the top seven teams were selected to the playoffs. The Tigers defeated Central Missouri head-to-head in Hays last year and got the nod for the higher spot in the preseason polls with Central Missouri listed fourth in both.Central Oklahoma and Pittsburg State led the way in both polls, coming off NCAA playoff appearances in 2024. UCO was picked first in the coaches poll, while PSU slightly edged UCO for first in the media poll despite UCO having more first-place votes. Central Oklahoma was the MIAA champion in 2024 with an 8-1 conference mark and went on to finish the year 12-2 overall by advancing to the Round of 16 in the NCAA playoffs. Pittsburg State finished 2024 8-3 overall after going 7-2 in MIAA action. The Gorillas lost their opening game of the NCAA playoffs.Fort Hays State returns seven of its regular starters from the 2024 season on offense, but just four on defense. FHSU had the third-best scoring offense and fourth-best total offense in the MIAA last year, but backed it with the best scoring defense and second-best total defense in the conference. The Tigers return six All-MIAA selections from last year's squad in 2025. The group includes Josh Shaw (OL), Porter Dannevik (OL), Cale Cormaney (TE), and Caleb Heavner (QB) on offense, and John Johnson (LB) and Gaven Haselhorst (DL) on defense.For the second-straight year, Fort Hays State will open with Angelo State at home on Thursday, August 28. The Tigers will have five home games throughout the 2025 regular season, which includes two in September, one in October, and one in November. The Tigers start with two non-conference games (one home, one away) before jumping into MIAA play for its final nine games of the regular season.Below are the MIAA Football Preseason Polls2025 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL 1. Central Oklahoma [7] – 78 points 2. Pittsburg State [3] – 75 points 3. Fort Hays State – 62 points 4. Central Missouri – 57 points 5. Emporia State – 50 points 6. Northwest Missouri – 41 points 7. Missouri Western – 29 points 8. Nebraska Kearney – 28 points 9. Washburn – 21 points 10. Missouri Southern – 9 points [#] - Number of First Place Votes2025 MIAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON MEDIA POLL 1. Pittsburg State [13] – 310 points 2. Central Oklahoma [18] – 307 points 3. Fort Hays State [2] – 271 points 4. Central Missouri [1] – 239 points 5. Northwest Missouri – 215 points 6. Emporia State – 167 points 7. Nebraska Kearney – 120 points 8. Missouri Western – 107 points 9. Washburn – 88 points 10. Missouri Southern – 46 points [#] - Number of First Place Votes

🏈FHSU Football Tabbed Third in 2025 MIAA Preseason Polls

Hays Post Sports HAYS – Lonnie Melvin fired a four-under 67 at Smoky Hill Country
Club to claim the 2025 Hays Merchant Golf tournament championship by two shots
over second-place Nick Vonlintel.

The annual tournament was played July 26th at the
Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and July 27th at Smoky Hill Country Club.

Alex Hobelmann’s three-under 69 at the Fort Hays Municipal Course
paced the field after day one. 

Vonlintel and Seth Oakley were both one shot back with a
round of 70. Melvin was four shots off the lead with a 73.

On the second day, Melvin was able to erase the deficit and
secure the two shot victory over Vonlintel, 140 to 142.

Jacob George finished third with rounds of 73 and 74 for a
combined scored of 147.

Hobelmann followed his 69 with a 79 and his two-day total
was 148.

Brendon Goss rounded out the top five with rounds of 74 and
76 for a total of 150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753755348572.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Post Sports HAYS – Lonnie Melvin fired a four-under 67 at Smoky Hill Country
Club to claim the 2025 Hays Merchant Golf tournament championship by two shots
over second-place Nick Vonlintel.The annual tournament was played July 26th at the
Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course and July 27th at Smoky Hill Country Club.Alex Hobelmann’s three-under 69 at the Fort Hays Municipal Course
paced the field after day one. Vonlintel and Seth Oakley were both one shot back with a
round of 70. Melvin was four shots off the lead with a 73.On the second day, Melvin was able to erase the deficit and
secure the two shot victory over Vonlintel, 140 to 142.Jacob George finished third with rounds of 73 and 74 for a
combined scored of 147.Hobelmann followed his 69 with a 79 and his two-day total
was 148.Brendon Goss rounded out the top five with rounds of 74 and
76 for a total of 150.You can find the complete results below:<figure>
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⛳Melvin claims Hays Merchants golf tournament victory

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

Monday, July 28
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Monday, July 28
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 6:00pmTuesday, July 29
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 6:00pmWednesday, July 30
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Atlanta Braves, 12:30pmThursday, July 31
 noneFriday, August 1
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 5:30pmSaturday, August 2
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 1:30pmSunday, August 3
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals at Toronto Blue Jays, 12:00pm

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor made his training camp debut after missing their first four practices because of a knee injury, and he was right in the mix with the starters Sunday as they put on pads for the first time.

Backup tight end Tre Watson, who also had been out with a groin injury, passed his physical and joined Taylor on the field.

Taylor has started all 33 regular-season games he has played for Kansas City over the past two seasons. But his blocking metrics coupled with a propensity for penalties mean his job is far from secure. The Chiefs signed backup 49ers tackle Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal and used their first-round draft pick on Ohio State standout Josh Simmons.

After the first week of camp, Simmons appears to have the inside track on the left tackle job, which was a problem position for the Chiefs all of last season. So when Taylor returned, it was in a rotation with Moore for first-team snaps on Sunday.

“We're getting back in the swing. He hasn't done anything," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said of Taylor, who showed up on the injury report with knee trouble much of last season and had offseason surgery. “But all three are kind of competing there.”

Reid said he was pleased with the way Simmons looked in his first padded practice. There was some question about whether he would even be ready for camp after tearing his patellar tendon in a game with the Buckeyes last season.

“He did some good things. I wasn't focusing on him the whole time, but I thought he did some good things,” Reid said. “He's a work in progress. He has to keep working. Young guy.”

Meanwhile, Reid said cornerback Kristian Fulton had a procedure to “clean out” his knee in the spring, which is why he remains on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-rosters-injured-reserve-pup-ff72ea1b9734719ea8f14bf4a0dc25b5">physically unable to perform list</a>. The Chiefs gave him a two-year, $20 million deal in March.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753641748665.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks between drills at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks between drills at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs right tackle Jawaan Taylor made his training camp debut after missing their first four practices because of a knee injury, and he was right in the mix with the starters Sunday as they put on pads for the first time.Backup tight end Tre Watson, who also had been out with a groin injury, passed his physical and joined Taylor on the field.Taylor has started all 33 regular-season games he has played for Kansas City over the past two seasons. But his blocking metrics coupled with a propensity for penalties mean his job is far from secure. The Chiefs signed backup 49ers tackle Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal and used their first-round draft pick on Ohio State standout Josh Simmons.After the first week of camp, Simmons appears to have the inside track on the left tackle job, which was a problem position for the Chiefs all of last season. So when Taylor returned, it was in a rotation with Moore for first-team snaps on Sunday.“We're getting back in the swing. He hasn't done anything," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said of Taylor, who showed up on the injury report with knee trouble much of last season and had offseason surgery. “But all three are kind of competing there.”Reid said he was pleased with the way Simmons looked in his first padded practice. There was some question about whether he would even be ready for camp after tearing his patellar tendon in a game with the Buckeyes last season.“He did some good things. I wasn't focusing on him the whole time, but I thought he did some good things,” Reid said. “He's a work in progress. He has to keep working. Young guy.”Meanwhile, Reid said cornerback Kristian Fulton had a procedure to “clean out” his knee in the spring, which is why he remains on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-rosters-injured-reserve-pup-ff72ea1b9734719ea8f14bf4a0dc25b5">physically unable to perform list</a>. The Chiefs gave him a two-year, $20 million deal in March.

🏈Right tackle Jawaan Taylor returns to practice as Chiefs put pads on for first time in training camp

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jared Allen will be wearing a cowboy hat next weekend in Canton for his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/football-hall-of-fame-a8a41e9c62d040159b825d42bda6f8b2">Hall of Fame</a>&nbsp;induction, the signature apparel that inspired his celebratory calf-roping act after each sack and still serves as a fitting snapshot of his off-the-field life.

Raised on a horse ranch in Northern California, Allen was audacious enough at age 8 to tell his father he planned to become a professional football player.

He fulfilled that vision with a relentless vengeance on the offensive tackles tasked with blocking him and the quarterbacks who tried to escape, using exceptional quickness, creative moves and pure strength to accumulate 136 sacks and four first team All-Pro selections as a defensive end over a 12-year career in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/NFL">NFL</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753544234043.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs Jared Allen (69) celebrates a play against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter of a football game Sunday, Oct. 7, 2007 in Kansas City, Mo. Jared Allen is a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's class of 2022.(AP Photo/Dick Whipple, File)(Dick Whipple | AP)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs Jared Allen (69) celebrates a play against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter of a football game Sunday, Oct. 7, 2007 in Kansas City, Mo. Jared Allen is a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame's class of 2022.(AP Photo/Dick Whipple, File)(Dick Whipple | AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jared Allen will be wearing a cowboy hat next weekend in Canton for his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/football-hall-of-fame-a8a41e9c62d040159b825d42bda6f8b2">Hall of Fame</a>&nbsp;induction, the signature apparel that inspired his celebratory calf-roping act after each sack and still serves as a fitting snapshot of his off-the-field life.Raised on a horse ranch in Northern California, Allen was audacious enough at age 8 to tell his father he planned to become a professional football player.He fulfilled that vision with a relentless vengeance on the offensive tackles tasked with blocking him and the quarterbacks who tried to escape, using exceptional quickness, creative moves and pure strength to accumulate 136 sacks and four first team All-Pro selections as a defensive end over a 12-year career in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/NFL">NFL</a>.“When you're doing what you love to do, you want to honor the game by being great, not in an arrogant way but in a way to show respect and gratitude for all those who came before you,” said Allen, who will be honored at the ceremony next weekend along with Antonio Gates, Eric Allen and Sterling Sharpe. “I always wanted to go out there and let people know I genuinely loved playing this game.”First making his mark with the Kansas City Chiefs and then reaching another level with the Minnesota Vikings, Allen was one of the most fun-loving players of his generation.That went all the way down to his routine of running away from the play, dropping to one knee, twirling his hand as if he had a lasso and pretending to catch a calf in a rodeo before extending both arms outward to the crowd. He was a showman who had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMdCi9Oomho">plenty to show for it</a>.The crossroads of Allen's career came upon consummation of the 2008 trade that sent him from the Chiefs to the Vikings, his promising start in the NFL tainted by off-the-field trouble that followed him from Idaho State.Chiefs general manager Carl Peterson, who drafted Allen in the fourth round in 2004, soured on the prodigious pass rusher after two different citations for drunken driving in 2006 and declared him a “young man at risk.” Allen was irked by the lack of front-office support and asked to be dealt, absent a new contract.After accumulating 15 1/2 sacks in 14 games in 2007 after serving a two-game suspension, Allen finally got his wish. Having given up alcohol after the second arrest, he redoubled his conditioning efforts in determination to prove his worth.“I loved Kansas City. I wanted to spend my whole career there. Unfortunately, you learn the business side of the game can be a little ruthless, and I'm just stubborn enough to want to get my way,” Allen said.The Vikings sent their first-round pick and two third-round picks in 2008 to the Chiefs, then signed Allen to a six-year, $73 million deal that at the time was the largest in history for a defensive player. He earned every penny, too, without any salary reductions or early releases that often follow big-money contracts in a league that has little patience for declining production by players with large cap hits.“With a contract like that and a trade like that comes a lot of pressure,” Allen said. “It's not in my saddle to rest on my laurels. The most impressive thing was I was able to play it out. I think I represented myself well."Allen averaged more than 14 sacks per season over six years with the Vikings, including a career-best 22 sacks in 2011 that came within one-half of the record set by Michael Strahan and later matched by T.J. Watt.Allen is officially 12th on the career sacks list, a statistic the NFL didn’t compile until 1982.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/sacks_career.htm">Research by Pro Football Reference</a>&nbsp;on all games played before then produced a comprehensive list that has Allen with the 16th-most sacks in history, after winding down his career with the Chicago Bears in 2014 and being traded to the Carolina Panthers the following season.While he ditched his drinking problem and cleaned up off the field, Allen never lost his thrill-seeking lifestyle, once running with the bulls in Spain, and killing a wild boar in Texas with a knife. He was a joke-cracking, wide-smiling life of the locker room with the Vikings, where he forged lifelong friendships that transcended the bitter disappointment of losing in overtime to the New Orleans Saints in the NFC championship game after the 2009 season.Picked up at the airport in Minneapolis after the trade by defensive line coach Karl Dunbar and the alpha males of the position group, Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, Allen quickly knew he was in the right place.“I am as competitive as they come, and it was brought to another level walking into that room,” Allen said. “The minute I got into that car, Pat and Kevin started talking trash about how I couldn’t play the run.”Allen formed the alpha center of those Vikings teams with the Williamses on one of the best defensive lines in the league. He frequently was at his best when the lights were on, including a 4 1/2-sack game on Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers when Brett Favre quarterbacked the Vikings to a 2009 victory in his first revenge matchup against the Packers.The Vikings have a long history of dominant defensive linemen, with Alan Page, Carl Eller, Chris Doleman and John Randle all enshrined before Allen in Canton. The famed Purple People Eaters — Page, Eller, Jim Marshall and Gary Larsen — helped the Vikings reach four Super Bowls and set a high standard for their successor.“You’re never going to race ’em, but I wanted people to talk about myself, Pat and Kevin,” Allen said. “We wanted to be the fiercest, nastiest front four you could be, and that was all to pay respect to the guys who did it before us.”