ATLANTA (AP) — The Kansas City Royals completed one of the most remarkable turnarounds in major league history Friday night, clinching an American League wild card despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-royals-score-fried-02583b042ef05aa1317b0eed23af86e9">a 3-0 loss</a>&nbsp;to the Atlanta Braves.

A year ago, the Royals matched a franchise record with 106 losses. Now, they are headed to the postseason for the first time since winning the 2015 World Series.

“We’re just so proud of everyone,” said shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., the face of the revitalized franchise. “This is just the beginning of something special.”

The celebration was delayed by a masterful performance from Atlanta pitcher Max Fried. But the Royals finally popped the champagne corks in the visitors' clubhouse at Truist Park when the Minnesota Twins were eliminated with a 7-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.

“This isn’t how we ideally wanted it,” Witt said. “But we’re here. We did it. We’re so proud of each other. We can’t let one game control our season.”

Led by second-year manager Matt Quatraro, Kansas City is the first team in baseball history to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-kansas-city-major-league-baseball-playoffs-faf7e1aee9a4322eb969f93e503be055">make the playoffs after posting such a dismal mark</a>&nbsp;the previous season.

In fact, since the start of the expansion era in 1961, the Royals are just the third team to advance to the postseason after losing at least 100 games the previous year.

The Twins earned a wild card in 2017 after going 59-103 a year earlier, and the 2020 Florida Marlins qualified for a wild card during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign coming off a 57-105 debacle.

The Royals quickly fell on hard times after claiming back-to-back AL pennants in 2014 and ’15 and their first World Series title in 30 years. They had not recorded a winning season since their championship run, losing at least 100 games in three of the past six, and were a total laughingstock just a year ago.

That all changed this season with a team led by Witt, who became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-jr-steals-homers-2f244fb981427ad0622cbc0d73c200df">first shortstop in major league history</a>&nbsp;with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals.

“You can’t help but be proud,” general manager J.J. Picollo said. “It was a battle all year long. We overcame a lot of odds.”

The Royals have struggled down the stretch, enduring a pair of seven-game losing streaks.

“We had some adversity here the last month of the season,” Picollo said. “But this is a tough, resilient group and we got through and here we are celebrating this moment.”

Witt tops the majors with 210 hits and a .332 batting average, to go along with 32 homers, 109 RBIs and 31 stolen bases.

Veteran catcher Salvador Perez also is having a huge offensive season with 27 homers and 104 RBIs. The Royals made the playoffs even after losing first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, who had 97 RBIs before breaking his right thumb and undergoing surgery.

There is a chance Pasquantino could return during the playoffs if the Royals make an extended run.

Amazingly, Picollo didn’t have to break the bank to build a small-market winner.

The players that have led Kansas City to heights not seen in nearly a decade were either on the team last year and just needed a little more time to grow, or were free-agent signings and trade acquisitions that underscored Picollo’s baseball savvy.

Seth Lugo, who is 16-9 with a 3.03 ERA, signed a modest three-year, $45 million free-agent deal. Michael Wacha signed a similar two-year, $32 million deal and is 13-8 with a 3.35 ERA.

Cole Ragans has contributed 11 wins with 223 strikeouts after being acquired from the Texas Rangers in a trade last season. Brady Singer bounced back from a disappointing 2023, and Michael Lorenzen is 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA in six starts since his arrival just before the trade deadline.

The bullpen has been entirely rebuilt, too, with Lucas Erceg earning 11 saves since the Royals landed him in a trade with Milwaukee.

Owner John Sherman said he was thrilled the fans of Kansas City have a winning team to cheer for again.

“I remember we talked about this a lot, maybe in spring training, that all we want to do is play meaningful baseball in August and September and have a chance to play in October,” Sherman said. “Here we are.”

Nobody seems to be having more fun than Witt, who has put together a historic season after signing an 11-year deal worth $288.7 million to serve as the cornerstone of the franchise.

The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt is the first player in major league history with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the majors. Advanced metrics grade him as not only one of baseball’s best defenders but also one of its fastest players.

“He’s the best player in baseball,” Ragans said recently. “A special talent, a special human being."

While fans in Kansas City have seen Witt’s stardom blossoming for several seasons, his coming-out party may have come this summer during the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/home-run-derby-261037bfe182674c9cd7352725d8b62a">Home Run Derby</a>&nbsp;at Globe Life Field in Arlington, not far from where he grew up in Colleyville, Texas.

Witt reached the finals before losing 14-13 to Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers in a dramatic showdown that came down to the final swings.

Now, Witt can look forward to an even bigger stage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727514560942.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., center has champagne poured on him by teammates during the celebration in the locker room after a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., center has champagne poured on him by teammates during the celebration in the locker room after a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — The Kansas City Royals completed one of the most remarkable turnarounds in major league history Friday night, clinching an American League wild card despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/braves-royals-score-fried-02583b042ef05aa1317b0eed23af86e9">a 3-0 loss</a>&nbsp;to the Atlanta Braves.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Boys are playin&#39; some October ball! <a href="https://t.co/ghrM2oMecn">pic.twitter.com/ghrM2oMecn</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1839862815315624206?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>A year ago, the Royals matched a franchise record with 106 losses. Now, they are headed to the postseason for the first time since winning the 2015 World Series.“We’re just so proud of everyone,” said shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., the face of the revitalized franchise. “This is just the beginning of something special.”The celebration was delayed by a masterful performance from Atlanta pitcher Max Fried. But the Royals finally popped the champagne corks in the visitors' clubhouse at Truist Park when the Minnesota Twins were eliminated with a 7-2 loss to the Baltimore Orioles.“This isn’t how we ideally wanted it,” Witt said. “But we’re here. We did it. We’re so proud of each other. We can’t let one game control our season.”Led by second-year manager Matt Quatraro, Kansas City is the first team in baseball history to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-kansas-city-major-league-baseball-playoffs-faf7e1aee9a4322eb969f93e503be055">make the playoffs after posting such a dismal mark</a>&nbsp;the previous season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CLINCHED!!! The <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Royals</a> are headed to the playoffs!!! 💙💙 Saturday night, Union Station will celebrate with a special royal blue and white lighting display. 2024 file photo by Andrew McDonald, Persistent Vision Photography. <a href="https://t.co/IHaVoHW8fw">pic.twitter.com/IHaVoHW8fw</a>&mdash; Union Station KC (@UnionStationKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/UnionStationKC/status/1839868800902017147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In fact, since the start of the expansion era in 1961, the Royals are just the third team to advance to the postseason after losing at least 100 games the previous year.The Twins earned a wild card in 2017 after going 59-103 a year earlier, and the 2020 Florida Marlins qualified for a wild card during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign coming off a 57-105 debacle.The Royals quickly fell on hard times after claiming back-to-back AL pennants in 2014 and ’15 and their first World Series title in 30 years. They had not recorded a winning season since their championship run, losing at least 100 games in three of the past six, and were a total laughingstock just a year ago.That all changed this season with a team led by Witt, who became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-jr-steals-homers-2f244fb981427ad0622cbc0d73c200df">first shortstop in major league history</a>&nbsp;with multiple seasons of at least 30 homers and 30 steals.“You can’t help but be proud,” general manager J.J. Picollo said. “It was a battle all year long. We overcame a lot of odds.”The Royals have struggled down the stretch, enduring a pair of seven-game losing streaks.It didn't stop them in the end.“We had some adversity here the last month of the season,” Picollo said. “But this is a tough, resilient group and we got through and here we are celebrating this moment.”Witt tops the majors with 210 hits and a .332 batting average, to go along with 32 homers, 109 RBIs and 31 stolen bases.Veteran catcher Salvador Perez also is having a huge offensive season with 27 homers and 104 RBIs. The Royals made the playoffs even after losing first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, who had 97 RBIs before breaking his right thumb and undergoing surgery.There is a chance Pasquantino could return during the playoffs if the Royals make an extended run.Amazingly, Picollo didn’t have to break the bank to build a small-market winner.The players that have led Kansas City to heights not seen in nearly a decade were either on the team last year and just needed a little more time to grow, or were free-agent signings and trade acquisitions that underscored Picollo’s baseball savvy.Just check out the rotation.Seth Lugo, who is 16-9 with a 3.03 ERA, signed a modest three-year, $45 million free-agent deal. Michael Wacha signed a similar two-year, $32 million deal and is 13-8 with a 3.35 ERA.Cole Ragans has contributed 11 wins with 223 strikeouts after being acquired from the Texas Rangers in a trade last season. Brady Singer bounced back from a disappointing 2023, and Michael Lorenzen is 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA in six starts since his arrival just before the trade deadline.The bullpen has been entirely rebuilt, too, with Lucas Erceg earning 11 saves since the Royals landed him in a trade with Milwaukee.Owner John Sherman said he was thrilled the fans of Kansas City have a winning team to cheer for again.“I remember we talked about this a lot, maybe in spring training, that all we want to do is play meaningful baseball in August and September and have a chance to play in October,” Sherman said. “Here we are.”Nobody seems to be having more fun than Witt, who has put together a historic season after signing an 11-year deal worth $288.7 million to serve as the cornerstone of the franchise.The son of longtime big league pitcher Bobby Witt is the first player in major league history with multiple 30-30 seasons in his first three years in the majors. Advanced metrics grade him as not only one of baseball’s best defenders but also one of its fastest players.“He’s the best player in baseball,” Ragans said recently. “A special talent, a special human being."While fans in Kansas City have seen Witt’s stardom blossoming for several seasons, his coming-out party may have come this summer during the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/home-run-derby-261037bfe182674c9cd7352725d8b62a">Home Run Derby</a>&nbsp;at Globe Life Field in Arlington, not far from where he grew up in Colleyville, Texas.Witt reached the finals before losing 14-13 to Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers in a dramatic showdown that came down to the final swings.Now, Witt can look forward to an even bigger stage.The postseason.

⚾ Royals complete remarkable turnaround, clinch wildcard playoff spot

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs moved to 3-1 for the fifth straight year as they cruised to a 50-7 win over the Stanton County Trojans Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.

The Monarchs wasted no time on homecoming jumping out to an early lead scoring less than two minutes into the game on a Carson Liles touchdown pass to Adler Brown, his first career receiving touchdown, from seven yards out that put TMP up 6-0. The Monarchs scoring drive took less than two minutes and covered 64 yards.

After a quick four plays, TMP got the ball right back at their 47-yard line and put together a six-play touchdown drive that was capped off by a 29-yard touchdown run, on third and goal, by Logan Baalmann—his first of two rushing touchdowns in the first half.

The Monarchs defense netted a pair of points on the next Stanton County drive, when Ryan Casey tackled the ball carrier in the end zone for a safety putting TMP up 16-0 with just under four minutes left in the first half.

Sophomore running back Jackson Gillespie broke onto the scoreboard for the Monarchs on their next offensive drive, scoring his first of three rushing touchdowns in the first half, from six yards out with just under two minutes left in the opening frame for a 22-0 TMP lead.

He also added touchdowns of five yards and 27 yards in the second quarter, sandwiched around the Baalmann 42-yard score as TMP built a 43-0 lead with just under five minutes left in the first half.

After the Gillespie touchdown, TMP's Easton Werth forced a fumble and then returned it 22 yards for a score with the extra point making it 50-0 TMP with four minutes and 44 seconds left in the first half.

With the running clock in the second half, Stanton County kept the ball for the entire third quarter and broke into the endzone as time expired in the quarter making it 50-7 and that would be the final score.

TMP finished with 341 total yards of offense. Logan Baalmann recorded his first 100-yard rushing game with 136 yards. Jackson Gillespie added 80 yards and three touchdowns.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680362998724.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs moved to 3-1 for the fifth straight year as they cruised to a 50-7 win over the Stanton County Trojans Friday night at Lewis Field in Hays.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1925154008&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-fb-postgamecoach-inv-vs-stanton-county-september-27th-24" title="TMP FB Postgame Coach Interview Vs Stanton County September 27th 24" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP FB Postgame Coach Interview Vs Stanton County September 27th 24</a></div></div>The Monarchs wasted no time on homecoming jumping out to an early lead scoring less than two minutes into the game on a Carson Liles touchdown pass to Adler Brown, his first career receiving touchdown, from seven yards out that put TMP up 6-0. The Monarchs scoring drive took less than two minutes and covered 64 yards.After a quick four plays, TMP got the ball right back at their 47-yard line and put together a six-play touchdown drive that was capped off by a 29-yard touchdown run, on third and goal, by Logan Baalmann—his first of two rushing touchdowns in the first half.The Monarchs defense netted a pair of points on the next Stanton County drive, when Ryan Casey tackled the ball carrier in the end zone for a safety putting TMP up 16-0 with just under four minutes left in the first half.Sophomore running back Jackson Gillespie broke onto the scoreboard for the Monarchs on their next offensive drive, scoring his first of three rushing touchdowns in the first half, from six yards out with just under two minutes left in the opening frame for a 22-0 TMP lead.He also added touchdowns of five yards and 27 yards in the second quarter, sandwiched around the Baalmann 42-yard score as TMP built a 43-0 lead with just under five minutes left in the first half.After the Gillespie touchdown, TMP's Easton Werth forced a fumble and then returned it 22 yards for a score with the extra point making it 50-0 TMP with four minutes and 44 seconds left in the first half.With the running clock in the second half, Stanton County kept the ball for the entire third quarter and broke into the endzone as time expired in the quarter making it 50-7 and that would be the final score.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1925154446&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-fb-highlights-vs-stanton-county-september-27th-24" title="TMP FB Highlights Vs Stanton County September 27th 24" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP FB Highlights Vs Stanton County September 27th 24</a></div></div>TMP finished with 341 total yards of offense. Logan Baalmann recorded his first 100-yard rushing game with 136 yards. Jackson Gillespie added 80 yards and three touchdowns.

🏈Monarchs cruise to big win over Stanton County in district opener

Hays High hit the road for their first Western Athletic Conference game of the season. The four-time defending conference champion Indians opened the conference slate in Garden City.

Hays held Garden City to just two yards in the first half while scoring two touchdowns of their own for a 14-0 lead at halftime. Neither team managed to score in the first quarter. Hays fumbled on their first play of the game following a run to midfield, but the Indian defense forced a Buffalo punt three plays later.

Hays found a groove on offense in the second quarter when Ian McGuire punctuated a 9 play 79 yard drive of all rushes with a 16 yard score. Carson Moore made the score 7-0.&nbsp;

Hays lost the ball on the next punt return. The defense this time got the ball back on four plays and turnover on downs. Carter Graham found Jarek Purdy for a one handed 41 yard catch on third down to keep the ensuing Indian drive going. Holden Lind scored from three yards out for a 14-0 lead after the Moore extra point.

The first half saw Garden City lose both their starting quarterback and running back.

Hays started the first four possessions of the third quarter in Garden City territory and capitalized on all four. Ian McGuire scored the first of the four touchdowns with a three yard plunge. The next two touchdowns started with the passing arm of Graham as he found Johnny Cano for a 27 yard score and then McGuire from six yards out. Zane Viegra finished the scoring with a seven yard scamper that was set up by a Kamani Jones interception and long return.

The lone touchdown for Garden City came on a 23 yard pass with 4:14 left in the fourth quarter for the final 41-8.

The margin of victory was the largest for Hays in the series with Garden City. The previous high was 27 points which occurred on two occasions, including the first ever game played between the two in 1958.

Ian McGuire ran for 167 yards and two scores. Carter Graham threw for 92 yards on eight completions and two scores.

Hays improves to 2-2, 1-0. Garden City drops to 1-3, 0-1.&nbsp;

Hays High hit the road for their first Western Athletic Conference game of the season. The four-time defending conference champion Indians opened the conference slate in Garden City.Hays held Garden City to just two yards in the first half while scoring two touchdowns of their own for a 14-0 lead at halftime. Neither team managed to score in the first quarter. Hays fumbled on their first play of the game following a run to midfield, but the Indian defense forced a Buffalo punt three plays later.Hays found a groove on offense in the second quarter when Ian McGuire punctuated a 9 play 79 yard drive of all rushes with a 16 yard score. Carson Moore made the score 7-0.&nbsp;Hays lost the ball on the next punt return. The defense this time got the ball back on four plays and turnover on downs. Carter Graham found Jarek Purdy for a one handed 41 yard catch on third down to keep the ensuing Indian drive going. Holden Lind scored from three yards out for a 14-0 lead after the Moore extra point.The first half saw Garden City lose both their starting quarterback and running back.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1925161802&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-fb-highlights-v-garden-city-sept-27-2024" title="Hays High FB Highlights v Garden City Sept 27 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High FB Highlights v Garden City Sept 27 2024</a></div></div>Hays started the first four possessions of the third quarter in Garden City territory and capitalized on all four. Ian McGuire scored the first of the four touchdowns with a three yard plunge. The next two touchdowns started with the passing arm of Graham as he found Johnny Cano for a 27 yard score and then McGuire from six yards out. Zane Viegra finished the scoring with a seven yard scamper that was set up by a Kamani Jones interception and long return.The lone touchdown for Garden City came on a 23 yard pass with 4:14 left in the fourth quarter for the final 41-8.Coach Tony Crough<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1925161676&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-fb-post-v-garden-city-sept-27-2024" title="Hays High FB Post v Garden City Sept 27 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High FB Post v Garden City Sept 27 2024</a></div></div>The margin of victory was the largest for Hays in the series with Garden City. The previous high was 27 points which occurred on two occasions, including the first ever game played between the two in 1958.Ian McGuire ran for 167 yards and two scores. Carter Graham threw for 92 yards on eight completions and two scores.Hays improves to 2-2, 1-0. Garden City drops to 1-3, 0-1.&nbsp;

🏈 Hays opens WAC play at Garden City with a victory

Hutchinson Central Christian 46, Fairfield 6

KC Washington 60, Kansas City Central, Mo. 0

Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 66, Pleasanton 8

Riverside 21, Maur Hill - Mount Academy 14

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725918362917.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727493925389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Andale 47, Wichita Collegiate 6Andover 35, Arkansas City 7Andover Central 24, Valley Center 0Atchison 49, KC Schlagle 8Axtell 64, Blue Valley Randolph 8BV Northwest 49, Washburn Rural 23BV West 34, BV North 28Basehor-Linwood 21, De Soto 7Blue Valley 20, St. James Academy 10Blue Valley 34, BV North 28Buhler 55, Circle 14Burlingame 68, Centre 0Central Heights 14, Bluestem 6Central Plains 52, Solomon 6Centralia 58, Doniphan West 14Chase County 40, Lyndon 36Chetopa 60, Southern Coffey County 0Clay Center 42, Chapman 26Clifton-Clyde 56, Lakeside 6Coffeyville 42, Independence 0Colby 21, Hugoton 17Columbus 49, Neodesha 16Council Grove 34, Riley County 13Crest 54, St Paul 8Derby 59, Maize 7Dighton 60, Wallace County 14Dodge City 33, Liberal 14Ell-Saline 46, Canton-Galva 0Ellis 53, La Crosse 8Ellsworth 48, Lyons 7Eudora 24, Ottawa 21Frontenac 15, Girard 8Galena 36, Fredonia 22Garden Plain 56, Belle Plaine 0Gardner-Edgerton 35, Lawrence 21Goddard 41, Newton 7Goddard-Eisenhower 51, Salina Central 28Golden Plains 68, Triplains-Brewster 6Great Bend 61, Wichita North 7Hanover 28, Frankfort 22Haven 37, Douglass 0Hays 41, Garden City 8Hesston 53, Nickerson 6Highland Park 48, KC Harmon 0Hillsboro 27, Halstead 0Hodgeman County 48, St John 0Hoisington 53, Southwestern Hts. 6Holton 33, Perry-Lecompton 14Hoxie 53, Stockton 0Humboldt 56, Eureka 12Hutchinson Central Christian 46, Fairfield 6Ingalls 58, Rolla 0Inman 30, Remington 26Iola 25, Anderson County 18Jackson Heights 57, McLouth 0KC Washington 60, Kansas City Central, Mo. 0Kinsley 42, Elkhart 6Lakin 38, Cimarron 20Lebo 56, Hartford 6Lincoln 50, Washington County 0Linn 39, Thunder Ridge 16Little River 58, Goessel 0Logan 20, Wheatland-Grinnell 6Louisburg 57, Bonner Springs 8Maize South 51, Wichita Campus 13Manhattan 50, Northland Christian, Mo. 8Manhattan 52, Junction City 0McPherson 29, Winfield 23Mill Valley 49, SM South 0Minneola 56, Ashland 6Moscow 53, South Barber 8Mulvane 19, Augusta 0Nemaha Central 13, Chanute 7Ness City 44, Quinter 42Northern Heights 48, Flinthills 14Norton 35, Minneapolis 14Olathe East 23, SM North 7Olpe 14, Wabaunsee 7Osage City 74, West Franklin 0Osborne 54, St John's Beloit 0Oxford 84, Wichita Independent 12Parsons 38, Baxter Springs 7Peabody-Burns 58, Pawnee Heights 20Pittsburg 23, Fort Scott 14Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 66, Pleasanton 8Plainville 14, Smith Center 8Prairie View 50, Burlington 34Rawlins County 48, Hill City 28Republic County 18, Bennington 14Riverside 21, Maur Hill - Mount Academy 14Riverton 43, Cherryvale 6Rock Creek 42, Abilene 6Rose Hill 32, El Dorado 12Rossville 13, Maranatha 0Rural Vista 52, Wakefield 6Russell 48, Larned 28SM East 39, Olathe North 34SM Northwest 56, SM West 6Sabetha 7, Royal Valley 6Santa Fe Trail 48, Osawatomie 8Scott City 57, Ulysses 8Sedgwick 35, Marion 8Silver Lake 26, St Marys 20South Central 54, Kiowa County 8South Gray 58, Spearville 38Southeast of Saline 40, Kingman 6St. Thomas Aquinas 59, BV Southwest 10Sterling 41, Ellinwood 35Sublette 44, Meade 6Sylvan-Lucas 60, Rock Hills 12Tonganoxie 42, Paola 28Topeka 47, Emporia 14Valley Heights 32, Salina Sacred Heart 16Victoria 56, Pretty Prairie 0Wellington 43, Labette County 6Wellsville 49, Baldwin 0Wichita County 58, Trego 8Wichita Northwest 48, Kapaun Mount Carmel 24

🏈 Friday night high school scoreboard (September 27)

JOPLIN, Mo. – Fort Hays State Women's Soccer opened MIAA play on Friday evening with a 2-0 shutout of Missouri Southern. It was the third-straight shutout for the Tigers as they moved to 4-1-2 overall and 1-0 in the MIAA. The Lions moved to 1-4-2 overall, 0-1 in the MIAA.

The Tigers did all of their scoring in about a five-minute span. They took the lead in the 23rd&nbsp;minute when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sullivan-kelly/8090">Sullivan Kelly</a>&nbsp;sent a corner kick into the box which found the head of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/britney-arneson/8077">Britney Arneson</a>&nbsp;and then redirected off the foot of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/taylor-hill/8126">Taylor Hill</a>&nbsp;for a goal. In the 28th&nbsp;minute, Kelly sent another ball into the box, this time headed in by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/allison-worley/8102">Allison Worley</a>&nbsp;to put the Tigers up 2-0.

FHSU allowed 10 shots and five on goal, all saved by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/mackenzie-caldwell/8128">Mackenzie Caldwell</a>. She picked up her fourth shutout of the season and third straight in the winning effort. The opposition has been scoreless against Caldwell for just over the last 335 minutes played.

The Tigers finished with 16 shots, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sydney-cotter/8104">Sydney Cotter</a>&nbsp;with five. Missouri Southern keeper Bella Smith saved five of the seven shots on goal by the Tigers.

Fort Hays State will play its first-ever match against Pittsburg State on Sunday, which is in its first season as a program. Match time is set for 1 p.m. in Pittsburg.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727490842433.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsJOPLIN, Mo. – Fort Hays State Women's Soccer opened MIAA play on Friday evening with a 2-0 shutout of Missouri Southern. It was the third-straight shutout for the Tigers as they moved to 4-1-2 overall and 1-0 in the MIAA. The Lions moved to 1-4-2 overall, 0-1 in the MIAA.The Tigers did all of their scoring in about a five-minute span. They took the lead in the 23rd&nbsp;minute when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sullivan-kelly/8090">Sullivan Kelly</a>&nbsp;sent a corner kick into the box which found the head of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/britney-arneson/8077">Britney Arneson</a>&nbsp;and then redirected off the foot of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/taylor-hill/8126">Taylor Hill</a>&nbsp;for a goal. In the 28th&nbsp;minute, Kelly sent another ball into the box, this time headed in by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/allison-worley/8102">Allison Worley</a>&nbsp;to put the Tigers up 2-0.FHSU allowed 10 shots and five on goal, all saved by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/mackenzie-caldwell/8128">Mackenzie Caldwell</a>. She picked up her fourth shutout of the season and third straight in the winning effort. The opposition has been scoreless against Caldwell for just over the last 335 minutes played.The Tigers finished with 16 shots, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-soccer/roster/sydney-cotter/8104">Sydney Cotter</a>&nbsp;with five. Missouri Southern keeper Bella Smith saved five of the seven shots on goal by the Tigers.UP NEXTFort Hays State will play its first-ever match against Pittsburg State on Sunday, which is in its first season as a program. Match time is set for 1 p.m. in Pittsburg.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ FHSU women open MIAA play with third-straight shutout

ATLANTA (AP) — Max Fried pitched three-hit ball over 8 2/3 innings and the Atlanta Braves delayed Kansas City's playoff celebration, beating the Royals 3-0 on Friday night in the opener of a crucial series for both teams.

Sean Murphy hit a two-run homer and Marcell Ozuna trotted home on a throwing error after his first stolen base since 2022 for the Braves, who began the night one game behind Arizona and the New York Mets in the NL wild-card race.

The Mets were playing at Milwaukee, while the Diamondbacks hosted the Padres.

The Royals came in with their magic number at one to clinch their first playoff appearance since winning the 2015 World Series. They were still in position to celebrate an AL wild-card berth Friday if the Minnesota Twins lost to Baltimore.

Fried (11-10) came within one out of a shutout, giving way to Raisel Iglesias when the Royals put runners at second and third. Iglesias retired Salvador Perez on a flyout for his 33rd save.

Fried threw 98 pitches, 63 for strikes. He walked two and struck out nine.

Royals starter Brady Singer (9-13) allowed two runs on four hits with three walks and five strikeouts. Murphy homered on an 0-2 pitch in the fourth, and Ozuna tacked on an unlikely insurance run in the eighth by stealing third.

Caught off guard, Perez threw the ball into left field, allowing Ozuna to make it home to a giddy celebration in the Atlanta dugout.

Royals: First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino (broken right thumb) was on the field during batting practice and will take simulated at-bats against reliever Will Smith on Saturday.

Braves: Starting pitcher Reynaldo López (right shoulder inflammation) threw his second side session Thursday. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker did not indicate when López might be activated.

Right-hander Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Saturday. The Braves had not yet announced a starting pitcher. Lugo allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings in his last outing — a 2-0 loss to the Giants on Sept. 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727488300952.jpeg" alt="Atlanta Braves pitcher Max Fried throws in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)" />
 <figcaption>Atlanta Braves pitcher Max Fried throws in the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jason Allen)</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Max Fried pitched three-hit ball over 8 2/3 innings and the Atlanta Braves delayed Kansas City's playoff celebration, beating the Royals 3-0 on Friday night in the opener of a crucial series for both teams.Sean Murphy hit a two-run homer and Marcell Ozuna trotted home on a throwing error after his first stolen base since 2022 for the Braves, who began the night one game behind Arizona and the New York Mets in the NL wild-card race.The Mets were playing at Milwaukee, while the Diamondbacks hosted the Padres.The Royals came in with their magic number at one to clinch their first playoff appearance since winning the 2015 World Series. They were still in position to celebrate an AL wild-card berth Friday if the Minnesota Twins lost to Baltimore.Fried (11-10) came within one out of a shutout, giving way to Raisel Iglesias when the Royals put runners at second and third. Iglesias retired Salvador Perez on a flyout for his 33rd save.Fried threw 98 pitches, 63 for strikes. He walked two and struck out nine.Royals starter Brady Singer (9-13) allowed two runs on four hits with three walks and five strikeouts. Murphy homered on an 0-2 pitch in the fourth, and Ozuna tacked on an unlikely insurance run in the eighth by stealing third.Caught off guard, Perez threw the ball into left field, allowing Ozuna to make it home to a giddy celebration in the Atlanta dugout.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino (broken right thumb) was on the field during batting practice and will take simulated at-bats against reliever Will Smith on Saturday.Braves: Starting pitcher Reynaldo López (right shoulder inflammation) threw his second side session Thursday. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker did not indicate when López might be activated.UP NEXTRight-hander Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.03 ERA) will start for the Royals on Saturday. The Braves had not yet announced a starting pitcher. Lugo allowed two runs on three hits over seven innings in his last outing — a 2-0 loss to the Giants on Sept. 22.

⚾ Braves shutout Royals behind Max Fried and Sean Murphy

JOPLIN, Mo. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team defeated Missouri Southern Friday evening in the 2024 conference opener for both teams, winning in four sets - 25-22, 25-17, 21-25, 25-20. The Tigers are now 9-1 overall and 1-0 in MIAA play after winning their eighth-consecutive match, while the Lions dip to 2-10 on the year and 0-1 in league action.

This eight-match winning streak is the longest for the Tigers since FHSU opened the 2016 season with 12-straight wins. Friday was also the first time FHSU won its opening MIAA contest since 2009.

Stats from the match were not immediately available due to a technical malfunction.

Fort Hays State will wrap up the weekend Saturday with a road match against Central Missouri, with first serve set for 6 p.m. from Warrensburg, Mo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727488163259.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsJOPLIN, Mo. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team defeated Missouri Southern Friday evening in the 2024 conference opener for both teams, winning in four sets - 25-22, 25-17, 21-25, 25-20. The Tigers are now 9-1 overall and 1-0 in MIAA play after winning their eighth-consecutive match, while the Lions dip to 2-10 on the year and 0-1 in league action.This eight-match winning streak is the longest for the Tigers since FHSU opened the 2016 season with 12-straight wins. Friday was also the first time FHSU won its opening MIAA contest since 2009.Stats from the match were not immediately available due to a technical malfunction.UP NEXTFort Hays State will wrap up the weekend Saturday with a road match against Central Missouri, with first serve set for 6 p.m. from Warrensburg, Mo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏐 Tigers win conference opener at Missouri Southern

HAYS
– Garden City scored the game winning goal on a corner kick with three minutes to
play in overtime and beat Hays High 2-1 Thursday at Hays High School.

Cooper
Johnson scored the Indians only goal with three minutes left in the first half.

Hays
High is now 4-4 overall and 2-2 in the Western Athletic Conference.

Hays PostHAYS
– Garden City scored the game winning goal on a corner kick with three minutes to
play in overtime and beat Hays High 2-1 Thursday at Hays High School.Cooper
Johnson scored the Indians only goal with three minutes left in the first half.Hays
High is now 4-4 overall and 2-2 in the Western Athletic Conference.UP
NEXT

⚽ HHS falls to Garden City in overtime

TMP-Marian (2-1, 2-1 MCL) vs Stanton Co. (0-3, 0-2 HPL) Friday, September 27- 7 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. – Panther Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267941">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs return home Friday night for a week four district matchup with Stanton County.

The Monarchs are 2-1 after a win over Phillipsburg last week.&nbsp;

Stanton County is 0-3 to open the season after a loss to Ellinwood.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Live
coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian (2-1, 2-1 MCL) vs Stanton Co. (0-3, 0-2 HPL) Friday, September 27- 7 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. – Panther Field Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267941">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs return home Friday night for a week four district matchup with Stanton County.The Monarchs are 2-1 after a win over Phillipsburg last week.&nbsp;Stanton County is 0-3 to open the season after a loss to Ellinwood.Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Live
coverage includes The Monarchs Sports Network and radio.

🏈🎥 TMP opens district play with homecoming against Stanton Co.

Hays High (1-2, 0-0 WAC) vs Garden City (1-2, 0-0) Friday, September 27- 7 p.m. Garden City, Kan. – Buffalo Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267881">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The Hays High Indians open up WAC play on the road against the rival Buffaloes in a battle of a pair of 2-1 teams.&nbsp;

Hays is coming off a loss to Manhattan last week and Garden City slid past Wichita Heights for a one-point win.&nbsp;

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Central Time. Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High (1-2, 0-0 WAC) vs Garden City (1-2, 0-0) Friday, September 27- 7 p.m. Garden City, Kan. – Buffalo Stadium Radio:&nbsp;KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Hays High Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1267881">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The Hays High Indians open up WAC play on the road against the rival Buffaloes in a battle of a pair of 2-1 teams.&nbsp;Hays is coming off a loss to Manhattan last week and Garden City slid past Wichita Heights for a one-point win.&nbsp;Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Central Time. Live coverage includes The Hays High Sports Network and radio.

🏈🎥 Hays opens WAC play at Garden City

COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team captured the team title in a field of 26 schools Friday morning at the sixth running of the Gans Creek Classic. The Tigers compiled 40 points atop their top five runners, with all five finishing inside the top 25 out of 310 runners.

Running a distance of six kilometers for the first time this season,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emily-diercks/8438">Emily Diercks</a>&nbsp;placed third overall and tops amongst NCAA DII runners with a time of 21:24.7. The junior transfer hovered around 10th place for the bulk of the race before passing nine runners over the final 2,000 meters. She ran her fastest split over the last 1,000 meters, running that distance in 3:24.1 which was the third-fastest split in the entire field all morning.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;completed the race in 21:43.0, good for 13th place overall and sixth against non-NCAA Division I competition. The senior moved up in the field at each split, sitting in 20th at the 2,000-meter pole before passing seven runners the rest of the way.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8143">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;finished close behind in 16th, crossing the line in 21:48.6.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;traversed the course in 22:07.8, placing 21st. True freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emma-weiner/8147">Emma Weiner</a>&nbsp;rounded out the team scoring in 24th place, turning in a time of 22:09.6.

Jaynie Halterman of Taylor University, the fourth-ranked program in the country at the NAIA level, took home the individual crown with a time of 20:56.7, a time that would have been good for 41st in the NCAA DI race earlier in the day.

Fort Hays State will wrap up the regular season in two weeks (Oct. 11) at the ESU Invitational. The women's 5K is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.

Full FHSU Results 1st - Fort Hays State - 40 points 3rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emily-diercks/8438">Emily Diercks</a>&nbsp;- 21:24.7 13th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 21:43.01 6th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8143">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;- 21:48.6 21st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 22:07.8 24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emma-weiner/8147">Emma Weiner</a>&nbsp;- 22:09.6 47th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/makenzie-premer/8146">Makenzie Premer</a>&nbsp;- 22:47.7 61st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8132">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;- 23:00.8 67th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/8134">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;- 23:09.3 76th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/8135">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;- 23:21.7 84th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/8136">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;- 23:27.3 125th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/keziah-bachman/8138">Keziah Bachman</a>&nbsp;- 23:59.6 138th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/arely-maldonado/8144">Arely Maldonado</a>&nbsp;- 24:11.2&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727465169001.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCOLUMBIA, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team captured the team title in a field of 26 schools Friday morning at the sixth running of the Gans Creek Classic. The Tigers compiled 40 points atop their top five runners, with all five finishing inside the top 25 out of 310 runners.Running a distance of six kilometers for the first time this season,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emily-diercks/8438">Emily Diercks</a>&nbsp;placed third overall and tops amongst NCAA DII runners with a time of 21:24.7. The junior transfer hovered around 10th place for the bulk of the race before passing nine runners over the final 2,000 meters. She ran her fastest split over the last 1,000 meters, running that distance in 3:24.1 which was the third-fastest split in the entire field all morning.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;completed the race in 21:43.0, good for 13th place overall and sixth against non-NCAA Division I competition. The senior moved up in the field at each split, sitting in 20th at the 2,000-meter pole before passing seven runners the rest of the way.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8143">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;finished close behind in 16th, crossing the line in 21:48.6.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;traversed the course in 22:07.8, placing 21st. True freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emma-weiner/8147">Emma Weiner</a>&nbsp;rounded out the team scoring in 24th place, turning in a time of 22:09.6.Jaynie Halterman of Taylor University, the fourth-ranked program in the country at the NAIA level, took home the individual crown with a time of 20:56.7, a time that would have been good for 41st in the NCAA DI race earlier in the day.UP NEXTFort Hays State will wrap up the regular season in two weeks (Oct. 11) at the ESU Invitational. The women's 5K is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.Full FHSU Results 1st - Fort Hays State - 40 points 3rd -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emily-diercks/8438">Emily Diercks</a>&nbsp;- 21:24.7 13th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/jaycee-vath/8137">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;- 21:43.01 6th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/taylor-hoskinson/8143">Taylor Hoskinson</a>&nbsp;- 21:48.6 21st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/darian-hudgeons/8133">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;- 22:07.8 24th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/emma-weiner/8147">Emma Weiner</a>&nbsp;- 22:09.6 47th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/makenzie-premer/8146">Makenzie Premer</a>&nbsp;- 22:47.7 61st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/ashlyn-harbaugh/8132">Ashlyn Harbaugh</a>&nbsp;- 23:00.8 67th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/abbye-hudson/8134">Abbye Hudson</a>&nbsp;- 23:09.3 76th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/brenna-murphy/8135">Brenna Murphy</a>&nbsp;- 23:21.7 84th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/madison-sutterfield/8136">Madison Sutterfield</a>&nbsp;- 23:27.3 125th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/keziah-bachman/8138">Keziah Bachman</a>&nbsp;- 23:59.6 138th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-cross-country/roster/arely-maldonado/8144">Arely Maldonado</a>&nbsp;- 24:11.2&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏃‍♀️ FHSU women claim title in Columbia

COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team placed 11th in a field of 26 schools Friday morning at the sixth running of the Gans Creek Classic. The Tigers were second amongst NCAA DII competition, racking up 283 points across the top five runners. Two Tigers placed in the top 20.

Running a distance of eight kilometers for the first time this season,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers to the line, placing 16th out of 397 runners with a time of 24:42.0. The senior crossed the 1,000-meter split in 59th place but slowly climbed into the top 20, moving up in the field at each split.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/christian-darrah/8164">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;completed the trek in 24:49.9, placing 19th. The junior transfer moved up 10 spots over the final 3,000 meters.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/8154">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;finished 99th, turning in a time of 25:45.1.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;traversed the course in 26:02.0, good for 124th place.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8153">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;rounded out the team scoring, finishing 139th after crossing the line in 26:08.9.

Iowa Western Community College took the team title with 38 points, including three runners in the top six. The Rievers' Geofrey Ronoh placed first individually with a time of 23:25.0.

Fort Hays State will wrap up the regular season in two weeks (Oct. 11) at the ESU Invitational. The men's 8K is scheduled to begin at 4:45 p.m.

Full FHSU Results 11th - Fort Hays State - 283 points 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 24:42.0 19th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/christian-darrah/8164">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;- 24:49.9 99th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/8154">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;- 25:45.1 124th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;- 26:02.0 139th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8153">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;- 26:08.9 157th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-stegman/8159">Brady Stegman</a>&nbsp;- 26:20.4 177th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-bechle/8148">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;- 26:32.7 179th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-little/8166">Daniel Little</a>&nbsp;- 26:33.1 194th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-conway/8163">Brady Conway</a>&nbsp;- 26:39.1 205th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/cole-krug/8165">Cole Krug</a>&nbsp;- 26:46.2 209th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/chayse-mccullough/8385">Chayse McCullough</a>&nbsp;- 26:47.9 239th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ian-weich/8173">Ian Weich</a>&nbsp;- 27:11.9 251st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/elijah-mccullough/8168">Elijah McCullough</a>&nbsp;- 27:20.3 DNF -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/cori-deboest/8151">Cori DeBoest</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727457298950.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCOLUMBIA, Mo. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team placed 11th in a field of 26 schools Friday morning at the sixth running of the Gans Creek Classic. The Tigers were second amongst NCAA DII competition, racking up 283 points across the top five runners. Two Tigers placed in the top 20.Running a distance of eight kilometers for the first time this season,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers to the line, placing 16th out of 397 runners with a time of 24:42.0. The senior crossed the 1,000-meter split in 59th place but slowly climbed into the top 20, moving up in the field at each split.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/christian-darrah/8164">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;completed the trek in 24:49.9, placing 19th. The junior transfer moved up 10 spots over the final 3,000 meters.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/8154">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;finished 99th, turning in a time of 25:45.1.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;traversed the course in 26:02.0, good for 124th place.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8153">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;rounded out the team scoring, finishing 139th after crossing the line in 26:08.9.Iowa Western Community College took the team title with 38 points, including three runners in the top six. The Rievers' Geofrey Ronoh placed first individually with a time of 23:25.0.UP NEXTFort Hays State will wrap up the regular season in two weeks (Oct. 11) at the ESU Invitational. The men's 8K is scheduled to begin at 4:45 p.m.Full FHSU Results 11th - Fort Hays State - 283 points 16th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/jaret-pfizenmaier/8157">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;- 24:42.0 19th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/christian-darrah/8164">Christian Darrah</a>&nbsp;- 24:49.9 99th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ethan-fisher/8154">Ethan Fisher</a>&nbsp;- 25:45.1 124th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/noah-morenz/8156">Noah Morenz</a>&nbsp;- 26:02.0 139th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/kaiden-esfeld/8153">Kaiden Esfeld</a>&nbsp;- 26:08.9 157th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-stegman/8159">Brady Stegman</a>&nbsp;- 26:20.4 177th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-bechle/8148">Daniel Bechle</a>&nbsp;- 26:32.7 179th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/daniel-little/8166">Daniel Little</a>&nbsp;- 26:33.1 194th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/brady-conway/8163">Brady Conway</a>&nbsp;- 26:39.1 205th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/cole-krug/8165">Cole Krug</a>&nbsp;- 26:46.2 209th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/chayse-mccullough/8385">Chayse McCullough</a>&nbsp;- 26:47.9 239th -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/ian-weich/8173">Ian Weich</a>&nbsp;- 27:11.9 251st -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/elijah-mccullough/8168">Elijah McCullough</a>&nbsp;- 27:20.3 DNF -&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-cross-country/roster/cori-deboest/8151">Cori DeBoest</a>

FHSU men 11th at Gans Creek; two in top 20

Friday, September 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KKQY: Plainville FB at Smith Center, 6:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Garden City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Stanton County, 6:30pm

Saturday, September 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Central Oklahoma, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. TCU, TBD

Sunday, September 29
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 1:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers, 2:00pm

Friday, September 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KKQY: Plainville FB at Smith Center, 6:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Garden City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Stanton County, 6:30pmSaturday, September 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Central Oklahoma, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. TCU, TBDSunday, September 29
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 1:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

HAYS
– The Hays High volleyball team picked up a pair of wins at their own
triangular Thursday at Hays High School. The Indians defeated Chapman in two
and Phillipsburg in three.

Hays
def. Chapman 25-19, 25-10
Hays def. Phillipsburg 25-13, 24-26, 25-11

The
Indians have now won five-straight and nine of their last 11 matches and improved
to 12-5 on the season.

Hays PostHAYS
– The Hays High volleyball team picked up a pair of wins at their own
triangular Thursday at Hays High School. The Indians defeated Chapman in two
and Phillipsburg in three.Hays
def. Chapman 25-19, 25-10
Hays def. Phillipsburg 25-13, 24-26, 25-11The
Indians have now won five-straight and nine of their last 11 matches and improved
to 12-5 on the season.

🏐 HHS sweeps home traingular

LARNED
– The TMP-Marian volleyball team extended their win-streak to 10-straight
matches Thursday with a three-set win in Larned. The Monarchs defeated the
Indians 27-25, 25-11, 25-19.

TMP-Marian
improved their record to 13-7.

Hays PostLARNED
– The TMP-Marian volleyball team extended their win-streak to 10-straight
matches Thursday with a three-set win in Larned. The Monarchs defeated the
Indians 27-25, 25-11, 25-19.TMP-Marian
improved their record to 13-7.

🏐 Monarchs sweep Larned for 10th straight win

NORTON
– Mattias Marintzer finished in 13th place to lead the TMP-Marian boys cross
country team at the Norton Invitational Thursday. Marintzer ran a time of
19:09.00. Zecharia Dickman finished in 20 th place with a time of 19:50.07 and Rachel
Staab was 21st at 19:50.38.

Hoxie’s
Michael Haffner won the boys race with a time of 16:49.13. 

Quinter
was the boys team champ with 29 points. Hoxie finished third with 48.

Claire
Schippers led the TMP-Marian girls with a 21st place finish (25:30.27). Her sister
Gracyn finished 27th (26:37.61).

Norton’s
Emma Collins won the girls’ race with a time of 20:25.70 on her home course. Norton
won the girls’ team title with 23 points. Hoxie finished second with 48 and Goodland
third with 52.

Hays PostNORTON
– Mattias Marintzer finished in 13th place to lead the TMP-Marian boys cross
country team at the Norton Invitational Thursday. Marintzer ran a time of
19:09.00. Zecharia Dickman finished in 20 th place with a time of 19:50.07 and Rachel
Staab was 21st at 19:50.38.Hoxie’s
Michael Haffner won the boys race with a time of 16:49.13. Quinter
was the boys team champ with 29 points. Hoxie finished third with 48.Claire
Schippers led the TMP-Marian girls with a 21st place finish (25:30.27). Her sister
Gracyn finished 27th (26:37.61).Norton’s
Emma Collins won the girls’ race with a time of 20:25.70 on her home course. Norton
won the girls’ team title with 23 points. Hoxie finished second with 48 and Goodland
third with 52.

🏃‍♂️ Marintzer leads Monarchs in Norton

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals trimmed their magic number to two with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.

Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.

Salvador Perez's second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).

Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph.

Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.

Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.

In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.

Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.

The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.

Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.

Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.

Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.

“I think it was exactly what we thought it was going to be,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was just a little fatigued. We just need to alter what he does now that he is not pitching and prioritize making sure that he’s out there when we need him, not worried about building up endurance or strength for the future. It’s about the next time he takes the mound.”

Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.

Royals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.

Nationals: RHP Trevor Williams (5-1, 2.19) faces the Phillies LHP Ranger Suárez (12-7, 3.15) Friday night at Nationals Park.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727380870341.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals trimmed their magic number to two with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.Salvador Perez's second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph.Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.“I think it was exactly what we thought it was going to be,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was just a little fatigued. We just need to alter what he does now that he is not pitching and prioritize making sure that he’s out there when we need him, not worried about building up endurance or strength for the future. It’s about the next time he takes the mound.”Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.Nationals: RHP Trevor Williams (5-1, 2.19) faces the Phillies LHP Ranger Suárez (12-7, 3.15) Friday night at Nationals Park.

⚾ Royals earn series sweep of the Nationals; magic number is 2

TOPEKA - The Kansas State High School Activities Association has announced school classifications for 2024-25.

The classifications take effect immediately and effect all activities except football.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/pdf/classifications24.pdf">&nbsp;For the full list of classifications please click here.</a>

There are no changes in Class 6A or 5A.&nbsp;

Topeka-Hayden will drop from Class 4A to Class 3A.

Belle Plaine, Garden Plain, Mound City-Jayhawk Linn and Wathena-Riverside are all dropping from Class 3A to Class 2A.

Scott Community is dropping from Class 4A to Class 3A.

Douglass, Leon-Bluestem, Phillipsburg and Rossville are all moving from Class 2A to Class 3A. Highland-Doniphan West, Oswego, Solomon, Sylvan-Lucas Unified, Udall, Wichita-Central Christian Academy and Yates Center are dropping from Class 2A to Class 1A.

Ellis, Howard-West Elk, Lincoln, Meade , Oxford, Sedan and Wichita-the Independent are all dropping from Class 2A to Class 1A.

KSHSAATOPEKA - The Kansas State High School Activities Association has announced school classifications for 2024-25.The classifications take effect immediately and effect all activities except football.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/pdf/classifications24.pdf">&nbsp;For the full list of classifications please click here.</a>There are no changes in Class 6A or 5A.&nbsp;Topeka-Hayden will drop from Class 4A to Class 3A.Belle Plaine, Garden Plain, Mound City-Jayhawk Linn and Wathena-Riverside are all dropping from Class 3A to Class 2A.Scott Community is dropping from Class 4A to Class 3A.Douglass, Leon-Bluestem, Phillipsburg and Rossville are all moving from Class 2A to Class 3A. Highland-Doniphan West, Oswego, Solomon, Sylvan-Lucas Unified, Udall, Wichita-Central Christian Academy and Yates Center are dropping from Class 2A to Class 1A.Ellis, Howard-West Elk, Lincoln, Meade , Oxford, Sedan and Wichita-the Independent are all dropping from Class 2A to Class 1A.

KSHSAA announces school classifications for 2024-25

🎥 Watch This Week's Tiger Talk

Thursday, September 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals,
11:30am

Thursday, September 26
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals,
11:30amFriday, September 27
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KKQY: Plainville FB at Smith Center, 6:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Garden City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Stanton County, 6:30pmSaturday, September 28
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 5:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Central Oklahoma, 6:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. TCU, TBDSunday, September 29
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Atlanta Braves, 1:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers, 2:00pm

WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.

Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.

Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.

Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.

Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.

James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.

Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.

Royals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.

Nationals: Manager Davey Martinez confirmed that All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams has reported to the club's complex in West Palm Beach, Florida as planned and will work out there through Sunday. Abrams was demoted from the major league team Saturday for what was termed an internal matter. 

Left-hander Patrick Corbin (6-13, 5.58 ERA) will pitch likely his final game for the Washington Nationals on Thursday. He is the last remaining active Nationals player who was on the 2019 World Series-winning team. His six-year, $140-million contract expires at the end of the season. RHP Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.28) goes for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727314412664.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.Nationals: Manager Davey Martinez confirmed that All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams has reported to the club's complex in West Palm Beach, Florida as planned and will work out there through Sunday. Abrams was demoted from the major league team Saturday for what was termed an internal matter. UP NEXTLeft-hander Patrick Corbin (6-13, 5.58 ERA) will pitch likely his final game for the Washington Nationals on Thursday. He is the last remaining active Nationals player who was on the 2019 World Series-winning team. His six-year, $140-million contract expires at the end of the season. RHP Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.28) goes for Kansas City.

⚾ Royals ride bullpen to win over Nationals after Lorenzen's early exit

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State's&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;has been named MIAA Women's Golfer of the Week, announced Wednesday by the league office.

Nordlund won the MIAA Fall Conference Preview earlier this week at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb., finishing first in the 90-player field with a two-round total of 1-over 143. Playing in just her second collegiate tournament, the Sartell, Minn. native carded six birdies across the 36-hole event, posting an opening-round score of 2-over 73 before posting a 1-under 70 on day two. She trailed by four shots following the first round before beating a pair of conference opponents by one shot.

She is the sixth FHSU women's golfer to claim a tournament victory and is just the third to do so as a true freshman (Hannah Perkins - 2016 Sterling Spring Fling, Kiley Johansen - 2008 Quality Inn Maverick Invitational).

Nordlund and the rest of the FHSU women's golf team will return to action in two weeks at the Grace Shin Regional Preview October 7-8 at KickingBird Golf Club in Edmond, Okla.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727291324407.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State's&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;has been named MIAA Women's Golfer of the Week, announced Wednesday by the league office.Nordlund won the MIAA Fall Conference Preview earlier this week at Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb., finishing first in the 90-player field with a two-round total of 1-over 143. Playing in just her second collegiate tournament, the Sartell, Minn. native carded six birdies across the 36-hole event, posting an opening-round score of 2-over 73 before posting a 1-under 70 on day two. She trailed by four shots following the first round before beating a pair of conference opponents by one shot.She is the sixth FHSU women's golfer to claim a tournament victory and is just the third to do so as a true freshman (Hannah Perkins - 2016 Sterling Spring Fling, Kiley Johansen - 2008 Quality Inn Maverick Invitational).Nordlund and the rest of the FHSU women's golf team will return to action in two weeks at the Grace Shin Regional Preview October 7-8 at KickingBird Golf Club in Edmond, Okla.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ FHSU's Nordlund MIAA Women's Golfer of the Week

We're joined by Fort Hays State women's soccer coach Tyson John, volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins and football coach Chris Brown.

Tiger Talk is live on Wednesday's at 12:15 p.m. from Tiger Club inside the Robbins Center on the Fort Hays State University campus and airs on KAYS (94.3 FM/1400 AM).

We're joined by Fort Hays State women's soccer coach Tyson John, volleyball coach Jessica Wood-Atkins and football coach Chris Brown.Tiger Talk is live on Wednesday's at 12:15 p.m. from Tiger Club inside the Robbins Center on the Fort Hays State University campus and airs on KAYS (94.3 FM/1400 AM).<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (September 25, 2024)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sjky9-16e51a7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk (Sep. 25, 2024)

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– As a thank you to its dedicated and loyal fans in the western part of the state, the Kansas State men’s basketball team will host a showcase on Saturday, October 5 beginning at 4 p.m., CT at the Dodge City Civic Center in Dodge City, Kan.

The Wildcats will host an open practice followed by an autograph session at the arena with doors opening at 3 p.m., CT. Tickets start at $5 for kids under 17 and $10 for adults. For more information on the event, please visit the Dodge City Parks and Facilities website&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dodgecityks.myrec.com/info/products/default.aspx">here</a>.

The third-year head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;and his staff welcome 14 players for the 2024-25 season, including 3 returning lettermen (senior&nbsp;David N’Guessan&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Macaleab Rich) and 11 newcomers. Among those newcomers are 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (Mobi Ikegwuruka) and a top-50 high school prospect (David Castillo).

The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;Achor Achor&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;Dug McDaniel&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;Ugonna Onyenso&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;Baye Fall&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;Brendan Hausen&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;Max Jones&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton).The Wildcats finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats’ 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang’s first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.

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 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– As a thank you to its dedicated and loyal fans in the western part of the state, the Kansas State men’s basketball team will host a showcase on Saturday, October 5 beginning at 4 p.m., CT at the Dodge City Civic Center in Dodge City, Kan.The Wildcats will host an open practice followed by an autograph session at the arena with doors opening at 3 p.m., CT. Tickets start at $5 for kids under 17 and $10 for adults. For more information on the event, please visit the Dodge City Parks and Facilities website&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dodgecityks.myrec.com/info/products/default.aspx">here</a>.The third-year head coach&nbsp;Jerome Tang&nbsp;and his staff welcome 14 players for the 2024-25 season, including 3 returning lettermen (senior&nbsp;David N’Guessan&nbsp;and sophomores&nbsp;Taj Manning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Macaleab Rich) and 11 newcomers. Among those newcomers are 8 Division I transfers, a junior college All-American (Mobi Ikegwuruka) and a top-50 high school prospect (David Castillo).The transfer class is considered one of the best in the country and includes notable additions&nbsp;Achor Achor&nbsp;(Samford),&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins&nbsp;(Illinois),&nbsp;Dug McDaniel&nbsp;(Michigan) and&nbsp;Ugonna Onyenso&nbsp;(Kentucky) as well as&nbsp;Baye Fall&nbsp;(Arkansas),&nbsp;Brendan Hausen&nbsp;(Villanova),&nbsp;C.J. Jones&nbsp;(UIC) and&nbsp;Max Jones&nbsp;(Cal State Fullerton).The Wildcats finished the 2023-24 season with a 19-15 record, including an 8-10 mark in Big 12 play, and advanced to the NIT. Among the Wildcats’ 19 victories were 4 over Top 25 teams, including 3 in the Top 10. The team has won 45 games in Tang’s first two seasons, including consecutive postseason appearances.The team had their first official workout for the upcoming season on Tuesday (Sept. 24). They will have 42 days until their first exhibition game against Fort Hays State on Tuesday, Oct. 29 and 49 days before hosting New Orleans in the opener on Tuesday, Nov. 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;