KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Linebacker John Johnson&nbsp;was named to the D2Football.com Elite 100 Watch List for the upcoming 2024 season. Johnson received D2CCA All-Super Region 3 honors last year with a second-team pick at linebacker after earning All-MIAA First Team honors.

Johnson was one of 11 players in the MIAA named to the watch list. The last Tiger to be named to the D2Football.com Elite 100 Watch List was tight end Hunter Budke going into the 2022 season.

Johnson led the Tigers in tackles last year with 89, while recording two interceptions. He had a career-high 15 tackles against nationally ranked and NCAA playoff participant Central Missouri in Warrensburg and reached double figures in tackles three times last year.

Below is the Elite 100 Watch List for 2024.

First Team - Offense QB Zach Zebrowski 6-2, 208, Sr. Central Missouri RB Blake Delacruz 5-8, 195, Sr. Harding RB Jada Byers 5-7, 185, Sr. Virginia Union WR Max McLeod 6-3, 200, Sr. Colorado Mines WR Tyler Kahmann 6-3, 204, Sr. Emporia State TE Sam Pitz 6-6, 245, Sr. Minnesota Duluth OL Marshall Foerner 6-7, 305, Sr. Minnesota State OL Gabe Clark 6-5, 313, Sr. Central Missouri OL Colton Grier 6-7, 300, Sr. Southern Arkansas OL Gabe Brown 6-3, 315, Sr. Grand Valley State OL Bryce George 6-5, 314, Jr. Ferris State

First Team - Defense DL Andre Jefferson 6-2, 295, Sr. Lenoir-Rhyne DL Marquise Fleming 6-1, 235, Sr. Wingate DL Maven Kretche 6-6, 265, Sr. Minnesota State DL Marcus Hansen 5-11, 240, Jr. Bemidji State LB Micah Cretsinger 6-2, 240, Sr. Saginaw Valley State LB Garrett Cox 5-11, 230, Sr. IUP LB Anthony Cardamone 6-2, 230, Jr. Grand Valley State DB Tanner Volk 6-1, 175, Sr. Central Washington DB Melvin Smith Jr. 6-0, 185, Sr. Southern Arkansas DB Peyton Buckley 6-1, 205, Sr. Augustana DB Daniel Bone III 6-0, 195, Sr. CSU Pueblo

First Team - Special Teams K Logan Turner 5-9, 200, Sr. Southwest Baptist P Blake Doud 6-5, 205, Jr. Colorado Mines AP Braden Jay 5-9, 185, Jr. Harding

Second Team - Offense QB Sammy Edwards 6-2, 188, Sr. Valdosta State RB Kendel Givens 5-9, 215, Sr. Ouachita Baptist RB Chavon Wright 5-8, 200, Jr. Charleston WR Gage Florence 5-10, 185, Jr. MSU Moorhead WR Erick Willis III 5-8, 160, Jr. California (PA) TE Eddie Burgess 6-4, 250, Jr. Upper Iowa OL Aiden Williams 6-6, 295, Sr. Minnesota Duluth OL Slade Edwards 6-3, 290, Jr. Central Washington OL Noah Plsek 6-5, 291, Jr. Angelo State OL Bruno Onwuazor 6-9, 310, Jr. Virginia State OL Jake Gannon 6-2, 295. Jr. Bemidji State

Second Team - Defense DL Jamae Blank 6-3, 225, Sr. UNC Pembroke DL Dre Hall 6-1, 245, Sr. Harding DL Gary Lewis 6-2, 215, Jr. Henderson State DL Jake Fisher 6-5, 260, Sr. Northwest Missouri State DL Jack Barkley 6-1, 220, Sr. Pittsburg State DL Kendall Lightfoot 6-1, 240, Gr. Western Colorado DL JT Cavender 6-0, 220, Sr. West Texas A&amp;M DL Major Williams 6-1, 190, Sr. Carson-Newman DL Darius Bruce 6-1, 177, Sr. IUP DL Andrew Pitts 5-9, 156, Sr. Angelo State DL Josiah Johnson 5-11, 210, Sr. Ouachita Baptist

Second Team - Special Teams K Bradley Larson 5-8, 175, Sr. Angelo State P Michael Shine 6-0, 160, Jr. Mississippi College AP Yogi Flager 5-10, 170, Sr. McKendree

SQUAD - Offense QB Brayden Long 6-3, 220, Sr. Slippery Rock QB Jack Strand 6-5, 220, Jr. MSU Moorhead QB Andrew Edwards 6-3, 200, Jr. Henderson State QB Carson Gulker 6-4, 220, Jr. Ferris State RB Tyler Flanagan 6-0, 205, Jr. Central Washington RB Idris Lawrence 5-10, 185, Gr. Slippery Rock RB Kelvin Smith 5-10, 207, Sr. Delta State RB Jariq Scales 5-10, 190, Sr. Southern Arkansas RB Marcellous Hawkins 5-11, 210, Jr. Central Missouri WR Malachi Langley 5-11, 190, Sr. Lincoln (PA) WR Jeremiah Taylor 6-2, 190, Sr. Shepherd WR Tyrese Hunt Thompson 6-1, 180, Jr. Ferris State WR Reggie Ratzlaff 6-3, 215, Sr. CSU Pueblo WR Connor Flannigan 5-10, 190, Sr. Ouachita Baptist WR Rashawn Harvey 6-1, 180, Sr. Slippery Rock WR Jeremiah Cooley 6-3, 215, Sr. UT Permian Basin TE Deontay Campbell 6-5, 244, Sr. Missouri Southern AP DeAree Rogers 5-10, 185, So. Lenior Rhyne OL Jett Janssen 6-4. 280, Sr. Wayne State College OL Jaelon Brown 6-5, 340, Sr. Delta State OL Sherman Deaton 6-5, 300, Sr. Emporia State OL Ty Lucas 6-2, 305, Jr. Shepherd OL Adam Kase 6-4, 300, Sr. Kutztown OL Nic Van De Graaf 6-3, 300, Sr. Colorado Mines OL Yoesph Carter 6-4. 290, Sr. Findlay

SQUAD - Defense DL Geemontae Peck 6-4, 310, Sr. Davenport DL Hunter O'Connor 6-3, 260, Sr. Chadron State DL Stephen Hoffman 6-4, 270, Gr. Bemidji State DL Frank Mulipola 6-4, 275, Jr. UT Permian Basin DL Byron Puryear 6-4, 230, Sr. West Florida DL Niles King 6-5. 260, Jr. Grand Valley State DL Vershaud Richardson 6-3. 245, Sr. Arkansas Tech LB Will Breland 6-3, 230, Sr. West Florida LB Domonique Davis 5-10, 220, Sr. Central State LB John Johnson&nbsp;6-3, 230, Sr. Fort Hays State LB Cam Hollobaugh 6-0, 220, Sr. Walsh LB Alex Kowalczyk 5-11, 220, Jr. Wayne State College LB Dexter Fitzpatrick 6-2, 220, Sr. Mars Hill LB Haden Wallace 6-2, 215, Sr. Augustana LB Brandon Rawls 6-2, 225, Jr. Saginaw Valley State LB Trevon Stanford 6-3, 200, Sr. West Alabama DB Devin Pringle 5-10, 182, Jr. Grand Valley State DB Josh Stokes 5-10, 175, Jr. Slippery Rock DB Mikael King 5-10, 180, Jr. Tuskegee DB Jackson Zimmerman 6-1, 185, Jr. Colorado Mines DB Cahleel Smith 6-0, 203, Sr. Northwest Missouri State DB CJ Brown 6-0, 190, Gr. Kutztown DB Michael Brown 6-1, 206, Sr. Indianapolis DB Giye Jenkins 5-11, 175, Sr. New Haven DB Jordan Rogers 5-10, 178, Jr. Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723152425256.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Linebacker John Johnson&nbsp;was named to the D2Football.com Elite 100 Watch List for the upcoming 2024 season. Johnson received D2CCA All-Super Region 3 honors last year with a second-team pick at linebacker after earning All-MIAA First Team honors.Johnson was one of 11 players in the MIAA named to the watch list. The last Tiger to be named to the D2Football.com Elite 100 Watch List was tight end Hunter Budke going into the 2022 season.Johnson led the Tigers in tackles last year with 89, while recording two interceptions. He had a career-high 15 tackles against nationally ranked and NCAA playoff participant Central Missouri in Warrensburg and reached double figures in tackles three times last year.Below is the Elite 100 Watch List for 2024.First Team - Offense QB Zach Zebrowski 6-2, 208, Sr. Central Missouri RB Blake Delacruz 5-8, 195, Sr. Harding RB Jada Byers 5-7, 185, Sr. Virginia Union WR Max McLeod 6-3, 200, Sr. Colorado Mines WR Tyler Kahmann 6-3, 204, Sr. Emporia State TE Sam Pitz 6-6, 245, Sr. Minnesota Duluth OL Marshall Foerner 6-7, 305, Sr. Minnesota State OL Gabe Clark 6-5, 313, Sr. Central Missouri OL Colton Grier 6-7, 300, Sr. Southern Arkansas OL Gabe Brown 6-3, 315, Sr. Grand Valley State OL Bryce George 6-5, 314, Jr. Ferris StateFirst Team - Defense DL Andre Jefferson 6-2, 295, Sr. Lenoir-Rhyne DL Marquise Fleming 6-1, 235, Sr. Wingate DL Maven Kretche 6-6, 265, Sr. Minnesota State DL Marcus Hansen 5-11, 240, Jr. Bemidji State LB Micah Cretsinger 6-2, 240, Sr. Saginaw Valley State LB Garrett Cox 5-11, 230, Sr. IUP LB Anthony Cardamone 6-2, 230, Jr. Grand Valley State DB Tanner Volk 6-1, 175, Sr. Central Washington DB Melvin Smith Jr. 6-0, 185, Sr. Southern Arkansas DB Peyton Buckley 6-1, 205, Sr. Augustana DB Daniel Bone III 6-0, 195, Sr. CSU PuebloFirst Team - Special Teams K Logan Turner 5-9, 200, Sr. Southwest Baptist P Blake Doud 6-5, 205, Jr. Colorado Mines AP Braden Jay 5-9, 185, Jr. HardingSecond Team - Offense QB Sammy Edwards 6-2, 188, Sr. Valdosta State RB Kendel Givens 5-9, 215, Sr. Ouachita Baptist RB Chavon Wright 5-8, 200, Jr. Charleston WR Gage Florence 5-10, 185, Jr. MSU Moorhead WR Erick Willis III 5-8, 160, Jr. California (PA) TE Eddie Burgess 6-4, 250, Jr. Upper Iowa OL Aiden Williams 6-6, 295, Sr. Minnesota Duluth OL Slade Edwards 6-3, 290, Jr. Central Washington OL Noah Plsek 6-5, 291, Jr. Angelo State OL Bruno Onwuazor 6-9, 310, Jr. Virginia State OL Jake Gannon 6-2, 295. Jr. Bemidji StateSecond Team - Defense DL Jamae Blank 6-3, 225, Sr. UNC Pembroke DL Dre Hall 6-1, 245, Sr. Harding DL Gary Lewis 6-2, 215, Jr. Henderson State DL Jake Fisher 6-5, 260, Sr. Northwest Missouri State DL Jack Barkley 6-1, 220, Sr. Pittsburg State DL Kendall Lightfoot 6-1, 240, Gr. Western Colorado DL JT Cavender 6-0, 220, Sr. West Texas A&amp;M DL Major Williams 6-1, 190, Sr. Carson-Newman DL Darius Bruce 6-1, 177, Sr. IUP DL Andrew Pitts 5-9, 156, Sr. Angelo State DL Josiah Johnson 5-11, 210, Sr. Ouachita BaptistSecond Team - Special Teams K Bradley Larson 5-8, 175, Sr. Angelo State P Michael Shine 6-0, 160, Jr. Mississippi College AP Yogi Flager 5-10, 170, Sr. McKendreeSQUAD - Offense QB Brayden Long 6-3, 220, Sr. Slippery Rock QB Jack Strand 6-5, 220, Jr. MSU Moorhead QB Andrew Edwards 6-3, 200, Jr. Henderson State QB Carson Gulker 6-4, 220, Jr. Ferris State RB Tyler Flanagan 6-0, 205, Jr. Central Washington RB Idris Lawrence 5-10, 185, Gr. Slippery Rock RB Kelvin Smith 5-10, 207, Sr. Delta State RB Jariq Scales 5-10, 190, Sr. Southern Arkansas RB Marcellous Hawkins 5-11, 210, Jr. Central Missouri WR Malachi Langley 5-11, 190, Sr. Lincoln (PA) WR Jeremiah Taylor 6-2, 190, Sr. Shepherd WR Tyrese Hunt Thompson 6-1, 180, Jr. Ferris State WR Reggie Ratzlaff 6-3, 215, Sr. CSU Pueblo WR Connor Flannigan 5-10, 190, Sr. Ouachita Baptist WR Rashawn Harvey 6-1, 180, Sr. Slippery Rock WR Jeremiah Cooley 6-3, 215, Sr. UT Permian Basin TE Deontay Campbell 6-5, 244, Sr. Missouri Southern AP DeAree Rogers 5-10, 185, So. Lenior Rhyne OL Jett Janssen 6-4. 280, Sr. Wayne State College OL Jaelon Brown 6-5, 340, Sr. Delta State OL Sherman Deaton 6-5, 300, Sr. Emporia State OL Ty Lucas 6-2, 305, Jr. Shepherd OL Adam Kase 6-4, 300, Sr. Kutztown OL Nic Van De Graaf 6-3, 300, Sr. Colorado Mines OL Yoesph Carter 6-4. 290, Sr. FindlaySQUAD - Defense DL Geemontae Peck 6-4, 310, Sr. Davenport DL Hunter O'Connor 6-3, 260, Sr. Chadron State DL Stephen Hoffman 6-4, 270, Gr. Bemidji State DL Frank Mulipola 6-4, 275, Jr. UT Permian Basin DL Byron Puryear 6-4, 230, Sr. West Florida DL Niles King 6-5. 260, Jr. Grand Valley State DL Vershaud Richardson 6-3. 245, Sr. Arkansas Tech LB Will Breland 6-3, 230, Sr. West Florida LB Domonique Davis 5-10, 220, Sr. Central State LB John Johnson&nbsp;6-3, 230, Sr. Fort Hays State LB Cam Hollobaugh 6-0, 220, Sr. Walsh LB Alex Kowalczyk 5-11, 220, Jr. Wayne State College LB Dexter Fitzpatrick 6-2, 220, Sr. Mars Hill LB Haden Wallace 6-2, 215, Sr. Augustana LB Brandon Rawls 6-2, 225, Jr. Saginaw Valley State LB Trevon Stanford 6-3, 200, Sr. West Alabama DB Devin Pringle 5-10, 182, Jr. Grand Valley State DB Josh Stokes 5-10, 175, Jr. Slippery Rock DB Mikael King 5-10, 180, Jr. Tuskegee DB Jackson Zimmerman 6-1, 185, Jr. Colorado Mines DB Cahleel Smith 6-0, 203, Sr. Northwest Missouri State DB CJ Brown 6-0, 190, Gr. Kutztown DB Michael Brown 6-1, 206, Sr. Indianapolis DB Giye Jenkins 5-11, 175, Sr. New Haven DB Jordan Rogers 5-10, 178, Jr. Pittsburg State&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 FHSU's Johnson named to D2Football.com Elite 100 watch list

SAINT-DENIS, France (AP) — Noah Lyles lost the Olympic 200 meters Thursday, falling to Botswana's Letsile Tebogo, then being tended to by medics who carted him off the track in a wheelchair suffering with what The Associated Press learned was a case of COVID.

After crossing the line third for the second straight Olympics, Lyles fell to his back and eventually sat up to be tended to by medical staff. A person familiar with Lyles' condition, who did not want to be identified, told AP was diagnosed with COVID two days before the final.

It's the second straight Olympics the virus has played a major role in Lyles' trip to the Games. He also won the bronze in the Tokyo Olympics, and he has said the empty stands and the year-long delay before the Games led to depression that hampered his performance and inspired his road to Paris.

Tebogo, 21, led wire-to-wire and won in 19.46 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in history, but .15 slower than Lyles' top time. Kenny Bednarek finished in 19.62 for his second straight silver, and Lyles, four nights&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-olympics-100m-lyles-thompson-ccf37184afc2f3318271d4c495d2a16b">after winning a close-as-can-be 100</a>, ran the curve in 19.70.

Lyles came into Paris having not been beaten in a 200 since that night in Tokyo, and after his win in the 100, he brought the bronze medal to the press conference, slammed it on the table and said that had been his motivation for three full years.

Thursday’s final marked the second straight night Tebogo beat him to the finish line in the Lyles’ favorite race. Lyles' win streak ended when he finished second in the semifinal. After that one, skipped his traditional meeting with reporters to head to the medical tent. His coach said he was fine.

This time, Tebogo was leading as the sprinters reached the curve. Usually at that point, Lyles puts on his trademark close, but there was no strong finish — only a desperate push in to the line then a collapse onto the purple track.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723145343801.png" alt="Noah Lyles, of the United States, rests on the track following the men's 200-meters final at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France.(AP Photo/Petr David Josek)" />
 <figcaption>Noah Lyles, of the United States, rests on the track following the men's 200-meters final at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Saint-Denis, France.(AP Photo/Petr David Josek)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAINT-DENIS, France (AP) — Noah Lyles lost the Olympic 200 meters Thursday, falling to Botswana's Letsile Tebogo, then being tended to by medics who carted him off the track in a wheelchair suffering with what The Associated Press learned was a case of COVID.After crossing the line third for the second straight Olympics, Lyles fell to his back and eventually sat up to be tended to by medical staff. A person familiar with Lyles' condition, who did not want to be identified, told AP was diagnosed with COVID two days before the final.It's the second straight Olympics the virus has played a major role in Lyles' trip to the Games. He also won the bronze in the Tokyo Olympics, and he has said the empty stands and the year-long delay before the Games led to depression that hampered his performance and inspired his road to Paris.Tebogo, 21, led wire-to-wire and won in 19.46 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in history, but .15 slower than Lyles' top time. Kenny Bednarek finished in 19.62 for his second straight silver, and Lyles, four nights&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-olympics-100m-lyles-thompson-ccf37184afc2f3318271d4c495d2a16b">after winning a close-as-can-be 100</a>, ran the curve in 19.70.Lyles came into Paris having not been beaten in a 200 since that night in Tokyo, and after his win in the 100, he brought the bronze medal to the press conference, slammed it on the table and said that had been his motivation for three full years.Now, he’ll get another one.Thursday’s final marked the second straight night Tebogo beat him to the finish line in the Lyles’ favorite race. Lyles' win streak ended when he finished second in the semifinal. After that one, skipped his traditional meeting with reporters to head to the medical tent. His coach said he was fine.This time, Tebogo was leading as the sprinters reached the curve. Usually at that point, Lyles puts on his trademark close, but there was no strong finish — only a desperate push in to the line then a collapse onto the purple track.

Lyles, suffering from COVID, finishes 3rd in Olympic 200 meters 

MANHATTAN, Kan. — As part of K-State Athletics' continued effort to provide the Best Fan Experience in the Big 12, all athletics facilities will be cashless venues starting with the 2024-25 season. Going cashless will reduce wait times while providing a faster and more secure payment system for fans. The change will also allow the facilities and staff to operate more efficiently.

K-State Athletics has transitioned to entirely cashless payment systems throughout its venues. This changeover includes the ticket office, concessions, parking, Rally House locations, gameday Cat Cushion purchases and other points of sale in the facilities. Fans can use traditional credit/debit card payment methods, while checks will not be accepted.

K-State team stores transitioned to cashless payments during the 2020 season, and most of the concessions stands were converted to card-only stations over the past two seasons. The main concession stands will also accept Apple Pay.

Single-game parking transactions in the East and West lots of the K-State Athletics Complex will also transition to cashless payments. ADA parking for football will continue to be available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis when lots open five hours prior to kickoff.

Men's and women's basketball single-game general admission parking will now be available for purchase in advance of gameday through the K-State ticket website (www.kstatesports.com/tickets). Fans can also purchase parking using a credit card on gameday when lots open 90 minutes prior to tipoff.

Fans with season parking passes for both football and basketball will continue to receive a hangtag to display containing a QR code that will now be scanned upon entry into the lots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723137608658.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. — As part of K-State Athletics' continued effort to provide the Best Fan Experience in the Big 12, all athletics facilities will be cashless venues starting with the 2024-25 season. Going cashless will reduce wait times while providing a faster and more secure payment system for fans. The change will also allow the facilities and staff to operate more efficiently.K-State Athletics has transitioned to entirely cashless payment systems throughout its venues. This changeover includes the ticket office, concessions, parking, Rally House locations, gameday Cat Cushion purchases and other points of sale in the facilities. Fans can use traditional credit/debit card payment methods, while checks will not be accepted.K-State team stores transitioned to cashless payments during the 2020 season, and most of the concessions stands were converted to card-only stations over the past two seasons. The main concession stands will also accept Apple Pay.Single-game parking transactions in the East and West lots of the K-State Athletics Complex will also transition to cashless payments. ADA parking for football will continue to be available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis when lots open five hours prior to kickoff.Men's and women's basketball single-game general admission parking will now be available for purchase in advance of gameday through the K-State ticket website (www.kstatesports.com/tickets). Fans can also purchase parking using a credit card on gameday when lots open 90 minutes prior to tipoff.Fans with season parking passes for both football and basketball will continue to receive a hangtag to display containing a QR code that will now be scanned upon entry into the lots.

K-State games going cashless

Friday, August 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6:30pm

Saturday, August 10
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars, 5:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 5:30pm

Thursday, August 8Friday, August 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6:30pmSaturday, August 10
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars, 5:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 5:30pmSunday, 8/11

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had two homers, a double and four RBIs as the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 8-4 Wednesday night and salvaged the final game of a three-game series.

“He's just a phenomenal baseball player,” teammate Vinnie Pasquantino said of Witt. “I don't know that there's a word I can say. He's not going to talk about personal accolades, but I will. He deserves to be in (the MVP) conversation.”

With the victory, the Royals moved 1 1/2 games ahead of Boston in the race for a wild-card spot in the American League. In the AL Central, Kansas City moved within a half-game of second-place Minnesota, which lost to the Chicago Cubs. The Royals are four games back of Cleveland, which was swept in a doubleheader by Arizona.

Witt had his fourth multi-homer game of the season, getting the Royals on the scoreboard in the first with his 21st homer. Witt's second homer of the game was a 421-foot blast to center field in the sixth inning. He also added a two-run double.

“The pressure brings me pleasure,” Witt said about his clutch hitting. “I go up there in those situations and try to control what I can control and find a good pitch to hit.”

That attribute is not lost on his manager.

“I think he's the best player in the league,” Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly, I'm going to be biased.”

But the admiration for Witt extended to the visiting clubhouse.

“That kid is special. He’s special,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “The way he conducts himself, the way he plays the game. From our dugout, I hate it, but I love it. He’s so polite. I think the game is in good hands.”

The Royals have homered in 13 consecutive games, tied for the second-longest streak in club history.

Cole Ragans (9-7) allowed four runs, one earned, on six hits in 6 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking two.

“I was confident that he had the stuff to keep them off balance,” Quatraro said. “His efficiency kept him going back out there. He'll get two extra days off before his next start, so we felt confident with where he was.”

Kutter Crawford (7-9) took the loss, working 3 2.3 innings and allowing six runs on five hits. He had three strikeouts and four walks.

After Witt's homer in the first, the Royals added a run in the second on a two-out single by Michael Massey, scoring MJ Melendez.

The Red Sox moved ahead in the third inning when Romy Gonzalez hit a two-out, three-run homer into the left-field bullpen. All three runs were unearned, as Ceddanne Rafaela reached base with no outs on an error on Massey. Danny Jansen lined a home run, his seventh of the season, into the same bullpen leading off the fourth.

The Royals regained the lead with five runs in the bottom of the fourth. Kansas City scored its first run of the inning on a wild pitch before Witt's opposite-field double scored two. Pasquantino then hit his 17th homer of the season — a two-run shot — off reliever Brennan Bernardino, extending his hitting streak to 11 games.

Red Sox: RHP Chris Martin was reinstated from the 15-day injured list, where he had been since July 5 (retroactive to July 4) with right elbow inflammation. In a corresponding move, LHP Cam Booser was optioned to Triple-A Worcester. ... OF Tyler O'Neill was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to Aug. 4) with a left leg infection. INF/OF Emmanuel Valdez was recalled from Worcester to take his place.

Red Sox: Open a three-game series against the Houston Astros on Friday. No starting pitchers have been named.

Royals: Open a two-game home series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723112149461.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr., left, is congratulated by Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) after hitting a solo home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr., left, is congratulated by Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) after hitting a solo home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had two homers, a double and four RBIs as the Kansas City Royals beat the Boston Red Sox 8-4 Wednesday night and salvaged the final game of a three-game series.“He's just a phenomenal baseball player,” teammate Vinnie Pasquantino said of Witt. “I don't know that there's a word I can say. He's not going to talk about personal accolades, but I will. He deserves to be in (the MVP) conversation.”With the victory, the Royals moved 1 1/2 games ahead of Boston in the race for a wild-card spot in the American League. In the AL Central, Kansas City moved within a half-game of second-place Minnesota, which lost to the Chicago Cubs. The Royals are four games back of Cleveland, which was swept in a doubleheader by Arizona.Witt had his fourth multi-homer game of the season, getting the Royals on the scoreboard in the first with his 21st homer. Witt's second homer of the game was a 421-foot blast to center field in the sixth inning. He also added a two-run double.“The pressure brings me pleasure,” Witt said about his clutch hitting. “I go up there in those situations and try to control what I can control and find a good pitch to hit.”That attribute is not lost on his manager.“I think he's the best player in the league,” Matt Quatraro said. “Clearly, I'm going to be biased.”But the admiration for Witt extended to the visiting clubhouse.“That kid is special. He’s special,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “The way he conducts himself, the way he plays the game. From our dugout, I hate it, but I love it. He’s so polite. I think the game is in good hands.”The Royals have homered in 13 consecutive games, tied for the second-longest streak in club history.Cole Ragans (9-7) allowed four runs, one earned, on six hits in 6 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking two.“I was confident that he had the stuff to keep them off balance,” Quatraro said. “His efficiency kept him going back out there. He'll get two extra days off before his next start, so we felt confident with where he was.”Kutter Crawford (7-9) took the loss, working 3 2.3 innings and allowing six runs on five hits. He had three strikeouts and four walks.After Witt's homer in the first, the Royals added a run in the second on a two-out single by Michael Massey, scoring MJ Melendez.The Red Sox moved ahead in the third inning when Romy Gonzalez hit a two-out, three-run homer into the left-field bullpen. All three runs were unearned, as Ceddanne Rafaela reached base with no outs on an error on Massey. Danny Jansen lined a home run, his seventh of the season, into the same bullpen leading off the fourth.The Royals regained the lead with five runs in the bottom of the fourth. Kansas City scored its first run of the inning on a wild pitch before Witt's opposite-field double scored two. Pasquantino then hit his 17th homer of the season — a two-run shot — off reliever Brennan Bernardino, extending his hitting streak to 11 games.TRANSACTIONS:Red Sox: RHP Chris Martin was reinstated from the 15-day injured list, where he had been since July 5 (retroactive to July 4) with right elbow inflammation. In a corresponding move, LHP Cam Booser was optioned to Triple-A Worcester. ... OF Tyler O'Neill was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to Aug. 4) with a left leg infection. INF/OF Emmanuel Valdez was recalled from Worcester to take his place.UP NEXT:Red Sox: Open a three-game series against the Houston Astros on Friday. No starting pitchers have been named.Royals: Open a two-game home series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday.

⚾ Bobby Witt's 2 homers, 4 RBIs lead the Royals past the Red Sox

By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - As Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker worked on the field during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph, behind the scenes he was busy negotiating a new deal.

That culminated Wednesday as the Chiefs officially announced Butker had signed a four-year extension with the team which makes him the highest-paid kicker in the league.

"I think offense is definitely the strength of the NFL right now, there's a lot of points being scored and kickers are part of that, games are closer than ever," Butker tells reporters after practice. "(Justin) Tucker signed his contract two years ago and then Jake Elliot just signed and tied his, so I'm grateful to be able to move it up a little bit."

Butker's new deal will net him $6.4 million annually, while Justin Tucker and Jake Elliot are making just $6 million.

Most notably, Butker negotiated the new deal himself. Butker says it was a lot of fun.

"My personality I'm an introvert, I don't really like the attention, so even being an NFL kicker is kind of an odd thing for me, I don't like the loud noises, the attention that comes my way," Butker explains. "But when I'm in the moment and I'm executing the kick, I'm so grateful for that opportunity and I kind of negotiated this contract the same way."

"It would have been easy for me to have an agent handle the contract, but I kind of attacked this fear and I wanted to go out and have faith in myself to represent myself, and do something that not a lot of players do and it wasn't to difficult."

Butker says he actually used his background as an industrial engineer at Georgia Tech during the negotiations.

"I can handle the spreadsheets and making sure I'm doing the right job with the counter offers and such and getting to a good deal," Butker says. "But, it was a challenge that I took on and I felt like going on year eight I kind of understand the NFL well enough, I understand contracts well enough from being involved with the NFLPA, and obviously I have a great relationship with the front office here."

"And so, I was able to negotiate my own contract over 8 to 10 weeks and I'm really excited about it and I think it's empowering for players to know that no one's going to represent you better than you."

Chiefs prepared to show off new dynamic receivers in preseason game

The Chiefs wrapped up their final practice of the week in St. Joseph today and now turn their attention to the first preseason game on Saturday in Jacksonville.&nbsp;

One of the more exciting aspects of the first preseason game is seeing all the Chiefs new offensive weapons, like Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy, in action.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes says he's extremely excited to see these new weapons in game action.&nbsp;

"Obviously for me to go out there and play these guys and showcase what we have the ability to do, but to learn from our mistakes too," Mahomes tells reporters from the podium post-practice. "You're going to go out there and play for real and play against someone else, I'm tired of going against Spags (Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) and every defense known to man, and so I think just going out there, letting the guys play, make decisions under fire, and have them make those right decisions and learn from mistakes after."&nbsp;

Mahomes says with his new speedy receivers they'll obviously be able to hit guys over the top.&nbsp;

"But I think the biggest thing is you want to be able to do both, I think that's something we've worked on all camp is you're going to be able to hit the guys over the top and then when the defense plays deep you have to be able to hit the medium type things, and we have to be able to run the football," Mahomes explains. &nbsp;

"And that's what makes great offenses great, is having the ability to do all of that, and so as much as I want to throw it deep every single play, I think just being able to do everything is going to be the biggest part of our offense."&nbsp;

Head Coach Andy Reid says that during Saturday's game the ones will play the first quarter, two's the second and so on.&nbsp;

Kickoff from Jacksonville is at 6pm, the game can be heard on 96.9, KFIX beginning at 5 p.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722105936347.jpeg" alt="Kicker Harrison Butker (7) attempts a kick as new punter Matt Araiza (49) holds/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Kicker Harrison Butker (7) attempts a kick as new punter Matt Araiza (49) holds/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. - As Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker worked on the field during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph, behind the scenes he was busy negotiating a new deal.That culminated Wednesday as the Chiefs officially announced Butker had signed a four-year extension with the team which makes him the highest-paid kicker in the league."I think offense is definitely the strength of the NFL right now, there's a lot of points being scored and kickers are part of that, games are closer than ever," Butker tells reporters after practice. "(Justin) Tucker signed his contract two years ago and then Jake Elliot just signed and tied his, so I'm grateful to be able to move it up a little bit."Butker's new deal will net him $6.4 million annually, while Justin Tucker and Jake Elliot are making just $6 million.Most notably, Butker negotiated the new deal himself. Butker says it was a lot of fun."My personality I'm an introvert, I don't really like the attention, so even being an NFL kicker is kind of an odd thing for me, I don't like the loud noises, the attention that comes my way," Butker explains. "But when I'm in the moment and I'm executing the kick, I'm so grateful for that opportunity and I kind of negotiated this contract the same way.""It would have been easy for me to have an agent handle the contract, but I kind of attacked this fear and I wanted to go out and have faith in myself to represent myself, and do something that not a lot of players do and it wasn't to difficult."Butker says he actually used his background as an industrial engineer at Georgia Tech during the negotiations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723056872013.png" alt="Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker waves to fans as he comes down the field to practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker waves to fans as he comes down the field to practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>"I can handle the spreadsheets and making sure I'm doing the right job with the counter offers and such and getting to a good deal," Butker says. "But, it was a challenge that I took on and I felt like going on year eight I kind of understand the NFL well enough, I understand contracts well enough from being involved with the NFLPA, and obviously I have a great relationship with the front office here.""And so, I was able to negotiate my own contract over 8 to 10 weeks and I'm really excited about it and I think it's empowering for players to know that no one's going to represent you better than you."Chiefs prepared to show off new dynamic receivers in preseason gameThe Chiefs wrapped up their final practice of the week in St. Joseph today and now turn their attention to the first preseason game on Saturday in Jacksonville.&nbsp;One of the more exciting aspects of the first preseason game is seeing all the Chiefs new offensive weapons, like Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy, in action.Quarterback Patrick Mahomes says he's extremely excited to see these new weapons in game action.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723056916638.jpeg" alt="Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes throws a pass during Chiefs practice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>"Obviously for me to go out there and play these guys and showcase what we have the ability to do, but to learn from our mistakes too," Mahomes tells reporters from the podium post-practice. "You're going to go out there and play for real and play against someone else, I'm tired of going against Spags (Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) and every defense known to man, and so I think just going out there, letting the guys play, make decisions under fire, and have them make those right decisions and learn from mistakes after."&nbsp;Mahomes says with his new speedy receivers they'll obviously be able to hit guys over the top.&nbsp;"But I think the biggest thing is you want to be able to do both, I think that's something we've worked on all camp is you're going to be able to hit the guys over the top and then when the defense plays deep you have to be able to hit the medium type things, and we have to be able to run the football," Mahomes explains. &nbsp;"And that's what makes great offenses great, is having the ability to do all of that, and so as much as I want to throw it deep every single play, I think just being able to do everything is going to be the biggest part of our offense."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723057106176.jpeg" alt="Patrick Mahomes (15) points out things to receivers Mecole Hardman (17) and Skyy More (24)/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Patrick Mahomes (15) points out things to receivers Mecole Hardman (17) and Skyy More (24)/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>Head Coach Andy Reid says that during Saturday's game the ones will play the first quarter, two's the second and so on.&nbsp;Kickoff from Jacksonville is at 6pm, the game can be heard on 96.9, KFIX beginning at 5 p.m.&nbsp;

🏈 With contract complete, Butker ready to focus on first preseason game

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State is receiving votes in the 2024 United Soccer Coaches Preseason Top 25 Poll, released on August 6. The Tigers appeared in the receiving votes section of the poll three times last year and last ranked among the Top 25 during October of the 2022 season.

Fort Hays State has eight returners on this year's squad, but four of those returners earned all-conference honors in 2023. Three of the four all-conference selections were all-region honorees. The Tigers will see an influx of 28 newcomers this year as head coach Alex Nichols&nbsp;enters his first year guiding the program.

Fellow GAC/MIAA conference member Southern Nazarene starts the year inside the Top 25 at No. 23. FHSU will also face a pair of preseason ranked teams in non-conference play, which includes No. 8 Midwestern State and No. 12 Maryville.

Below is the United Soccer Coaches Men's Soccer Preseason Top 25. Rank - School - Prev W-L-T 1 - Franklin Pierce - 1 - 21-0-2 2 - Colorado State University-Pueblo - 2 - 18-5-3 3 - Florida Tech - 3 - 13-3-5 4 - Lewis - 4 - 13-4-6 5 - California State University-Los Angeles - 5 - 18-1-3 6 - Limestone - 6 - 14-3-2 7 - Gannon - 7 - 18-2-2 8 - Midwestern State - 8 - 20-1-1 9 - University of Charleston - 9 - 19-2-0 10 - Cal Poly Pomona - 10 - 14-2-5 11 - Barry - 11 - 13-4-1 12 - Maryville&nbsp; - 12 - 12-4-6 13 - West Florida - 13 - 12-1-6 14 - Post 14 - 13-2-6 15 - Indianapolis - 15 - 12-2-7 16 - Clayton State - 16 - 15-3-3 17 - Illinois-Springfield - 17 - 13-1-7 18 - California State-Chico - 18 - 11-2-7 19 - Lynn - 19 - 10-3-6 20 - Wingate - 20 - 12-5-2 21 - Fort Lewis College - 21 - 12-5-4 22 - Tiffin - 22 - 14-3-3 23 - Southern Nazarene - 23 - 14-5-2 24 - McKendree - 24 - 12-2-7 25 - Millersville 25 - 14-3-3&nbsp;

Also receiving votes: Point Loma Nazarene, California State Monterey Bay, Lincoln Memorial, West Chester, Mississippi College, Lake Erie College,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Rogers State, Colorado Mesa&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723043096558.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State is receiving votes in the 2024 United Soccer Coaches Preseason Top 25 Poll, released on August 6. The Tigers appeared in the receiving votes section of the poll three times last year and last ranked among the Top 25 during October of the 2022 season.Fort Hays State has eight returners on this year's squad, but four of those returners earned all-conference honors in 2023. Three of the four all-conference selections were all-region honorees. The Tigers will see an influx of 28 newcomers this year as head coach Alex Nichols&nbsp;enters his first year guiding the program.Fellow GAC/MIAA conference member Southern Nazarene starts the year inside the Top 25 at No. 23. FHSU will also face a pair of preseason ranked teams in non-conference play, which includes No. 8 Midwestern State and No. 12 Maryville.Below is the United Soccer Coaches Men's Soccer Preseason Top 25. Rank - School - Prev W-L-T 1 - Franklin Pierce - 1 - 21-0-2 2 - Colorado State University-Pueblo - 2 - 18-5-3 3 - Florida Tech - 3 - 13-3-5 4 - Lewis - 4 - 13-4-6 5 - California State University-Los Angeles - 5 - 18-1-3 6 - Limestone - 6 - 14-3-2 7 - Gannon - 7 - 18-2-2 8 - Midwestern State - 8 - 20-1-1 9 - University of Charleston - 9 - 19-2-0 10 - Cal Poly Pomona - 10 - 14-2-5 11 - Barry - 11 - 13-4-1 12 - Maryville&nbsp; - 12 - 12-4-6 13 - West Florida - 13 - 12-1-6 14 - Post 14 - 13-2-6 15 - Indianapolis - 15 - 12-2-7 16 - Clayton State - 16 - 15-3-3 17 - Illinois-Springfield - 17 - 13-1-7 18 - California State-Chico - 18 - 11-2-7 19 - Lynn - 19 - 10-3-6 20 - Wingate - 20 - 12-5-2 21 - Fort Lewis College - 21 - 12-5-4 22 - Tiffin - 22 - 14-3-3 23 - Southern Nazarene - 23 - 14-5-2 24 - McKendree - 24 - 12-2-7 25 - Millersville 25 - 14-3-3&nbsp;Also receiving votes: Point Loma Nazarene, California State Monterey Bay, Lincoln Memorial, West Chester, Mississippi College, Lake Erie College,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Rogers State, Colorado Mesa&nbsp;

⚽ FHSU men receives votes in United Soccer Coaches preseason poll

Wednesday, August 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pm

Wednesday, August 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmThursday, August 8Friday, August 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6:30pmSaturday, August 10
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars, 5:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 5:30pmSunday, 8/11

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Dominic Smith scored the go-ahead run on a wild pitch in the sixth inning on a call that was overturned on a challenge, and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Tuesday night.

Smith doubled to open the sixth and moved to third on a single to center field by Eric Sogard. After David Hamilton struck out looking, Smith charged home on a pitch by KC's Seth Lugo that bounced in front of the plate and got away from catcher Salvador Perez. Perez chased the ball to the backstop, wheeled and threw to Lugo, who appeared to tag a diving Smith for an apparent out.

The Red Sox challenged the call, which was overturned on review.

“Dom (Smith) wasn’t too sure,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “Mikey (Brenly, the Red Sox’s replay coordinator) right away said, ‘Challenge it. He got in.’”

Smith called his diving toward the plate a “freestyle” when asked what stroke he used.

“I tried to make a move," Smith said. "I wasn’t sure when (Royals pitcher Seth Lugo) tagged me, but when I saw (manager Alex Cora) go for the challenge, I felt good about it.

“I’ve been seeing a lot of our speedy guys (use the swim move) all year. My slide is a little bit slower than other people’s, so I might have a little more time to make a move.”

Later in the inning, with the bases loaded and two out Yoshida singled through the right side, driving in two more runs.

The Red Sox, who have won the first two games of the three-game set, trail the Royals by a half-game for the third American League wild-card spot.

Brennan Bernadino (4-3) worked a third of an inning and earned the win in relief. Kenley Jansen picked up his 21st save, striking out Bobby Witt Jr., the MLB leader in hits and batting average, to end it.

“That’s the best I’ve seen the big boy, especially in that last at bat,” Cora said of Jansen. “It was cutter, sinker, cutter. The velocity, the movement, to have him rested was very important.”

Lugo (13-6) allowed six runs, four earned, on six hits in 5 1/3 innings in the loss.

“Another competitive outing,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “His command was a little bit off, I think. He was maybe trying to be a little too fine. We were looking up there in the sixth and we were right in the game.”

Lugo said overturning the call was the right call.

“I could tell that I didn’t get his arm and his hand got the plate,” Lugo said. “I was hoping they didn’t have a good enough video to show that.”

Boston held a 6-3 lead heading into the bottom of the eighth inning when the Royals' MJ Melendez lined a two-run double to the wall, scoring Vinnie Pasquantino and Perez and cutting the deficit to a run.

Kansas City's Bobby Witt Jr. lined a one-out double in the first before Pasquantino pulled one through the right side of the infield for an RBI single.

The Red Sox answered with a pair of unearned runs in the second. Connor Wong singled. Smith hit a grounder to second, but Michael Massey failed to field it. With one out, David Hamilton bounced one over the wall, scoring Wong. Smith scored on a groundout by Ceddanne Rafaela.

Masataka Yoshida homered with one out in the third to extend the Boston lead to 3-1.

The Royals used three straight two-out hits to tie the game in the fifth. Massey launched a 434-foot home run to right center. Witt followed with a bloop single and scored on a double by Pasquantino.

Red Sox: Boston manager Alex Cora said RHP Chris Martin played catch Monday and felt good Tuesday, so it's likely he'll be activated from the injured list before Wednesday's game. He has been on the IL since July 5 (retroactive to July 4) with right elbow inflammation. ... OF Tyler O'Neill, who has been out of the lineup with an illness since Aug. 3, feels better and is also likely to return to the lineup Wednesday.

The Red Sox and Royals will conclude their three-game series Wednesday night. Boston will start RHP Brayan Bello (7-8, 3.81 ERA) against KC's LHP Cole Ragans (8-7, 3.35 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723023745529.jpeg" alt="Boston Red Sox's Dominic Smith (2) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo to score during the sixth inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Boston Red Sox's Dominic Smith (2) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo to score during the sixth inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Dominic Smith scored the go-ahead run on a wild pitch in the sixth inning on a call that was overturned on a challenge, and the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Tuesday night.Smith doubled to open the sixth and moved to third on a single to center field by Eric Sogard. After David Hamilton struck out looking, Smith charged home on a pitch by KC's Seth Lugo that bounced in front of the plate and got away from catcher Salvador Perez. Perez chased the ball to the backstop, wheeled and threw to Lugo, who appeared to tag a diving Smith for an apparent out.The Red Sox challenged the call, which was overturned on review.“Dom (Smith) wasn’t too sure,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “Mikey (Brenly, the Red Sox’s replay coordinator) right away said, ‘Challenge it. He got in.’”Smith called his diving toward the plate a “freestyle” when asked what stroke he used.“I tried to make a move," Smith said. "I wasn’t sure when (Royals pitcher Seth Lugo) tagged me, but when I saw (manager Alex Cora) go for the challenge, I felt good about it.“I’ve been seeing a lot of our speedy guys (use the swim move) all year. My slide is a little bit slower than other people’s, so I might have a little more time to make a move.”Later in the inning, with the bases loaded and two out Yoshida singled through the right side, driving in two more runs.The Red Sox, who have won the first two games of the three-game set, trail the Royals by a half-game for the third American League wild-card spot.Brennan Bernadino (4-3) worked a third of an inning and earned the win in relief. Kenley Jansen picked up his 21st save, striking out Bobby Witt Jr., the MLB leader in hits and batting average, to end it.“That’s the best I’ve seen the big boy, especially in that last at bat,” Cora said of Jansen. “It was cutter, sinker, cutter. The velocity, the movement, to have him rested was very important.”Lugo (13-6) allowed six runs, four earned, on six hits in 5 1/3 innings in the loss.“Another competitive outing,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “His command was a little bit off, I think. He was maybe trying to be a little too fine. We were looking up there in the sixth and we were right in the game.”Lugo said overturning the call was the right call.“I could tell that I didn’t get his arm and his hand got the plate,” Lugo said. “I was hoping they didn’t have a good enough video to show that.”Boston held a 6-3 lead heading into the bottom of the eighth inning when the Royals' MJ Melendez lined a two-run double to the wall, scoring Vinnie Pasquantino and Perez and cutting the deficit to a run.Kansas City's Bobby Witt Jr. lined a one-out double in the first before Pasquantino pulled one through the right side of the infield for an RBI single.The Red Sox answered with a pair of unearned runs in the second. Connor Wong singled. Smith hit a grounder to second, but Michael Massey failed to field it. With one out, David Hamilton bounced one over the wall, scoring Wong. Smith scored on a groundout by Ceddanne Rafaela.Masataka Yoshida homered with one out in the third to extend the Boston lead to 3-1.The Royals used three straight two-out hits to tie the game in the fifth. Massey launched a 434-foot home run to right center. Witt followed with a bloop single and scored on a double by Pasquantino.TRAINING ROOM:Red Sox: Boston manager Alex Cora said RHP Chris Martin played catch Monday and felt good Tuesday, so it's likely he'll be activated from the injured list before Wednesday's game. He has been on the IL since July 5 (retroactive to July 4) with right elbow inflammation. ... OF Tyler O'Neill, who has been out of the lineup with an illness since Aug. 3, feels better and is also likely to return to the lineup Wednesday.UP NEXT:The Red Sox and Royals will conclude their three-game series Wednesday night. Boston will start RHP Brayan Bello (7-8, 3.81 ERA) against KC's LHP Cole Ragans (8-7, 3.35 ERA).

⚾ Dominic Smith scores go-ahead run on wild pitch as Red Sox beat Royals

Jim Kearney was a Chiefs Legend, a Super Bowl Champion, and a member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame" Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. "During his nine-year career in Kansas City, Jim was part of an AFL Championship team and helped lead the Chiefs defense to a 23-7 victory in Super Bowl IV. 

Jim first appeared in a Chiefs uniform in 1967, and for the next eight years, he never missed a game. And yet, the most impressive parts of Jim's life happened off the field. 

After his playing days, he became a high school teacher and coach. He mentored hundreds of children in the Kansas City area, and he will be remembered as a great player, a great teacher and a great man. My family and I send our deepest condolences to Shirley and the entire Kearney family.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723053115512.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City ChiefsJim Kearney was a Chiefs Legend, a Super Bowl Champion, and a member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame" Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt said. "During his nine-year career in Kansas City, Jim was part of an AFL Championship team and helped lead the Chiefs defense to a 23-7 victory in Super Bowl IV. Jim first appeared in a Chiefs uniform in 1967, and for the next eight years, he never missed a game. And yet, the most impressive parts of Jim's life happened off the field. After his playing days, he became a high school teacher and coach. He mentored hundreds of children in the Kansas City area, and he will be remembered as a great player, a great teacher and a great man. My family and I send our deepest condolences to Shirley and the entire Kearney family.

🏈 Chiefs mourn the Passing of former safety Jim Kearney

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - After some offseason troubles, there were questions among Chiefs fans of if wide receiver Rashee Rice would be with the team at the start of training camp.

With the threat of a suspension, Rice being able to focus on football at camp is very important.

"Just because I get to be out here and still be a part of my team and we get to dominate and focus on our goal this year," Rice tells reporters.

Rice's potential suspension by the NFL is a dark cloud looming over Chiefs camp, but Rice would not comment on that.

"It's a legal process and my team is handling it off the field for me," Rice says.

Rice knows through it all though he has one man in his corner, his quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

"He's been very important, he's there for me whenever I need him, on or off the field, he's only a call away and he's always going to pick up my call, so I got him," Rice says.

The Chiefs have been spending this week of training camp beginning to fully gear up for their first preseason game this weekend.

Kansas City still has a few players injured, that may not play Saturday, and a slew of young guys working to prove they deserve to be on the 53-man roster.

Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says he's excited to see the chemistry between some of those young players in the first preseason game.

"Who will communicate in the heat of battle, you know sometimes it's controlled here but kind of getting into a real game atmosphere," Spagnuolo tells reporters following practice. "Biggest thing is I want to see guys that are unknown to me from their toughness and tackling, those are gonna be the two biggest things."

Several young players in the Chiefs secondary have been working hard during training camp at Missouri Western, hoping to make an impact on the team.

Spagnuolo is ready to see some of those young players step up in the first preseason game on Saturday.

"Jaden (Hicks), all of them, Kamal (Hadden), even guys, Ekow (Boye-Doe) didn't play a lot back there last year right, guys that haven't had a lot of time back there, I'd like to see those guys," Spagnuolo says.

Spagnulo says he's ready to see some of the toughness from players in an actual game, as he determines whose "tough tough" and whose "fake tough."

The Chiefs have one more practice at Missouri Western before they depart for Jacksonville. They take the practice fields Wednesday at 9:15 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722969378400.jpeg" alt="Rashee Rice catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Rashee Rice catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostST. JOSEPH, Mo. - After some offseason troubles, there were questions among Chiefs fans of if wide receiver Rashee Rice would be with the team at the start of training camp.With the threat of a suspension, Rice being able to focus on football at camp is very important."Just because I get to be out here and still be a part of my team and we get to dominate and focus on our goal this year," Rice tells reporters.Rice's potential suspension by the NFL is a dark cloud looming over Chiefs camp, but Rice would not comment on that."It's a legal process and my team is handling it off the field for me," Rice says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722969423609.jpeg" alt="Rashee Rice/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Rashee Rice/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>Rice knows through it all though he has one man in his corner, his quarterback Patrick Mahomes."He's been very important, he's there for me whenever I need him, on or off the field, he's only a call away and he's always going to pick up my call, so I got him," Rice says.The Chiefs have been spending this week of training camp beginning to fully gear up for their first preseason game this weekend.Kansas City still has a few players injured, that may not play Saturday, and a slew of young guys working to prove they deserve to be on the 53-man roster.Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says he's excited to see the chemistry between some of those young players in the first preseason game."Who will communicate in the heat of battle, you know sometimes it's controlled here but kind of getting into a real game atmosphere," Spagnuolo tells reporters following practice. "Biggest thing is I want to see guys that are unknown to me from their toughness and tackling, those are gonna be the two biggest things."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722969461905.jpeg" alt="Chiefs rookie safety Jaden Hicks makes a play on Travis Kelce/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs rookie safety Jaden Hicks makes a play on Travis Kelce/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>Several young players in the Chiefs secondary have been working hard during training camp at Missouri Western, hoping to make an impact on the team.Spagnuolo is ready to see some of those young players step up in the first preseason game on Saturday."Jaden (Hicks), all of them, Kamal (Hadden), even guys, Ekow (Boye-Doe) didn't play a lot back there last year right, guys that haven't had a lot of time back there, I'd like to see those guys," Spagnuolo says.Spagnulo says he's ready to see some of the toughness from players in an actual game, as he determines whose "tough tough" and whose "fake tough."The Chiefs have one more practice at Missouri Western before they depart for Jacksonville. They take the practice fields Wednesday at 9:15 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722969603874.jpeg" alt="Rookie cornerback Kamal Hadden (17) covers receiver Montrell Washington (80) who goes for the one handed catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Rookie cornerback Kamal Hadden (17) covers receiver Montrell Washington (80) who goes for the one handed catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏈 Chiefs Rice focused on football as potential suspension looms

Tuesday, August 6&nbsp; KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pm

Tuesday, August 6&nbsp; KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmWednesday, August 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmThursday, August 8Friday, August 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6:30pmSaturday, August 10
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars, 5:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 5:30pmSunday, 8/11

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — James Paxton pitched six solid innings, Masataka Yoshida tied his career high with four of Boston's 18 hits and the Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 9-5 on Monday night.

Boston, which has won four of its last five, now trails the Royals by 1 1/2 games for the final American League wild card spot.

“It was a humble approach,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “We hit the ball all over the place. We ran the bases well. The kids did a great job in the bottom of the lineup.

"We just kept putting pressure on them. They have a good team; it took a lot. But give our guys credit, they showed up today and did their job. Now we have to win the series, either tomorrow or the next day.”

Paxton (9-3) allowed two runs on five hits to pick up his first win&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/red-sox-trades-sims-garcia-28244b06789dd496ce5101d6149df8d3">since being traded to the Red Sox</a>&nbsp;by the Dodgers.

“I felt good out there,” Paxton said. “To have (Cora) have that confidence in me was awesome.”

Boston catcher Connor Wong said Paxton was exactly who the Red Sox thought they were getting in the trade.

“We knew from last year that he gets better as the game went on,” Wong said of Paxton, who had 19 starts with Boston in 2023. “He did that against us in L.A. That's just who he is.”

Brady Singer (8-7) allowed four runs on 10 hits in 5 2/3 innings. He allowed at least one hit in every inning.

“I thought he pitched well,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Singer. “He really battled. They made a lot of contact, a lot of singles early. (Singer) couldn't quite put them away. Where he was in the sixth, after giving up those two runs in the second, we had a really good chance to win that game.”

Singer wasn't happy with his performance.

“I felt like the sinker in was going to be a huge part of it,” he said. “But I left a few over the middle of the plate and gave up a few hits on it.”

David Hamilton pulled a double down the right field line for Boston's first run in the second. Jarren Duran added an RBI with a slow roller.

The Royals got on the board in the third. Kyle Isbel coaxed a one-out walk from Paxton and advanced to second on a groundout. Bobby Witt Jr. lined a single to right, scoring Isbel.

Michael Massey tripled off the top of the wall in right center in the fourth and scored when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/james-paxton-in-play-run-s-to-freddy-fermin?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Freddy Fermin tapped one off the end of the bat</a>&nbsp;that resulted in an RBI single.

Boston regained the lead in the sixth. Reliever Angel Zerpa gave up a line drive down the left field line to Duran, scoring two runs.

The Red Sox added four more runs off Zerpa, including two on Romy Gonzalez’s pinch-hit home run, before recording an out in the seventh.

“With a 2-0 count I thought he was going to challenge me,” Gonzalez said. “He made a pitch where I wanted it and I put a good swing on it.”

The Royals scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh off Cooper Criswell.

Red Sox: OF Tyler O'Neill, who missed Boston's last two games with an illness, was not in the lineup. Manager Alex Cora said O'Neill was “feeling better, but not great. Still available, but not starting.”

The Red Sox and Royals will play the second game of a three-game series Tuesday night. Boston will send RHP Brayan Bello (10-5, 5.13 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Seth Lugo (13-5, 2.57 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722937257358.jpeg" alt="Boston Red Sox starting pitcher James Paxton throws to a Kansas City Royals batter during the first inning of a baseball game, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Boston Red Sox starting pitcher James Paxton throws to a Kansas City Royals batter during the first inning of a baseball game, Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — James Paxton pitched six solid innings, Masataka Yoshida tied his career high with four of Boston's 18 hits and the Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 9-5 on Monday night.Boston, which has won four of its last five, now trails the Royals by 1 1/2 games for the final American League wild card spot.“It was a humble approach,” Boston manager Alex Cora said. “We hit the ball all over the place. We ran the bases well. The kids did a great job in the bottom of the lineup."We just kept putting pressure on them. They have a good team; it took a lot. But give our guys credit, they showed up today and did their job. Now we have to win the series, either tomorrow or the next day.”Paxton (9-3) allowed two runs on five hits to pick up his first win&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/red-sox-trades-sims-garcia-28244b06789dd496ce5101d6149df8d3">since being traded to the Red Sox</a>&nbsp;by the Dodgers.“I felt good out there,” Paxton said. “To have (Cora) have that confidence in me was awesome.”Boston catcher Connor Wong said Paxton was exactly who the Red Sox thought they were getting in the trade.“We knew from last year that he gets better as the game went on,” Wong said of Paxton, who had 19 starts with Boston in 2023. “He did that against us in L.A. That's just who he is.”Brady Singer (8-7) allowed four runs on 10 hits in 5 2/3 innings. He allowed at least one hit in every inning.“I thought he pitched well,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Singer. “He really battled. They made a lot of contact, a lot of singles early. (Singer) couldn't quite put them away. Where he was in the sixth, after giving up those two runs in the second, we had a really good chance to win that game.”Singer wasn't happy with his performance.“I felt like the sinker in was going to be a huge part of it,” he said. “But I left a few over the middle of the plate and gave up a few hits on it.”David Hamilton pulled a double down the right field line for Boston's first run in the second. Jarren Duran added an RBI with a slow roller.The Royals got on the board in the third. Kyle Isbel coaxed a one-out walk from Paxton and advanced to second on a groundout. Bobby Witt Jr. lined a single to right, scoring Isbel.Michael Massey tripled off the top of the wall in right center in the fourth and scored when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/james-paxton-in-play-run-s-to-freddy-fermin?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">Freddy Fermin tapped one off the end of the bat</a>&nbsp;that resulted in an RBI single.Boston regained the lead in the sixth. Reliever Angel Zerpa gave up a line drive down the left field line to Duran, scoring two runs.The Red Sox added four more runs off Zerpa, including two on Romy Gonzalez’s pinch-hit home run, before recording an out in the seventh.“With a 2-0 count I thought he was going to challenge me,” Gonzalez said. “He made a pitch where I wanted it and I put a good swing on it.”The Royals scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh off Cooper Criswell.TRAINER'S ROOMRed Sox: OF Tyler O'Neill, who missed Boston's last two games with an illness, was not in the lineup. Manager Alex Cora said O'Neill was “feeling better, but not great. Still available, but not starting.”UP NEXTThe Red Sox and Royals will play the second game of a three-game series Tuesday night. Boston will send RHP Brayan Bello (10-5, 5.13 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Seth Lugo (13-5, 2.57 ERA).___

⚾ Boston's 18 hits lifts Red Sox over Royals

By GERARD WELLBROCK Voice of the Tigers

HAYS – The Fort Hays State football team held their first
official practice of the 2024 season Monday morning at Lewis Field.

Chris Brown enters his 13th season as the Tigers head coach
and was happy with what he saw in the two-plus hour workout.

“Great energy, great excitement.” Brown said. “Kids went
really hard. There was great effort across the board on both sides of the ball.
I was proud of them. I mean, they're good communication. You could feel the
energy as each play was going on.”

“Guys were making plays on both sides of the ball as well,
which is great to see, but these guys got better in the summer. You can tell
there's some great leadership. You can tell there's other guys trying to step
up and be leaders as well, so I'm very pleased with day one."

FHSU returns 20 of 22 starters from a 7-4 team in 2023, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. Brown says the experience showed Monday in practice.

“Just the ownership of this team, holding guys accountable, making sure they're lining up properly, making sure they're playing hard, making sure they're finishing plays.” Brown said. “Right now, I think the best thing is we have some depth at all positions, and that's awesome because we haven't had that in years past. So we’ve got guys stepping up and doing what they need to do to help improve this team.”

Despite having a veteran team, Brown says all stating
positions are up for grabs.

“You look at every position that we have right now, there's
a competition going on to see who's going to start, and that's awesome. And
that's what you've got to have to be a great football team. Those guys
competing every single day to win that starting job.”

The Tigers will be back on the field in
helmets Tuesday morning before adding shoulder pads on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday is their
first practice in full pads.

The Tigers open the 2024 season on Thursday, August 29 at home against Angelo State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722890830557.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown addresses his team after their first official practice of the 2024 season (Gerard Wellbrock photo)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown addresses his team after their first official practice of the 2024 season (Gerard Wellbrock photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Voice of the TigersHAYS – The Fort Hays State football team held their first
official practice of the 2024 season Monday morning at Lewis Field.Chris Brown enters his 13th season as the Tigers head coach
and was happy with what he saw in the two-plus hour workout.“Great energy, great excitement.” Brown said. “Kids went
really hard. There was great effort across the board on both sides of the ball.
I was proud of them. I mean, they're good communication. You could feel the
energy as each play was going on.”“Guys were making plays on both sides of the ball as well,
which is great to see, but these guys got better in the summer. You can tell
there's some great leadership. You can tell there's other guys trying to step
up and be leaders as well, so I'm very pleased with day one."<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/1889676774&color=%23ff5500&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/chris-brown-080524" title="Chris Brown 080524" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown 080524</a></div></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722891008069.jpeg" alt="Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)" />
 <figcaption>Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722891038844.jpeg" alt="Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)" />
 <figcaption>Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU returns 20 of 22 starters from a 7-4 team in 2023, which includes all 11 on offense and nine on defense. Brown says the experience showed Monday in practice.“Just the ownership of this team, holding guys accountable, making sure they're lining up properly, making sure they're playing hard, making sure they're finishing plays.” Brown said. “Right now, I think the best thing is we have some depth at all positions, and that's awesome because we haven't had that in years past. So we’ve got guys stepping up and doing what they need to do to help improve this team.”Despite having a veteran team, Brown says all stating
positions are up for grabs.“You look at every position that we have right now, there's
a competition going on to see who's going to start, and that's awesome. And
that's what you've got to have to be a great football team. Those guys
competing every single day to win that starting job.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722891073964.jpeg" alt="Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)" />
 <figcaption>Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722891099860.jpeg" alt="Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)" />
 <figcaption>Images from FHSU's first football practice of 2024 (Gerard Wellbrock photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Tigers will be back on the field in
helmets Tuesday morning before adding shoulder pads on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday is their
first practice in full pads.The Tigers open the 2024 season on Thursday, August 29 at home against Angelo State.

🏈 FHSU holds first practice of 2024 season

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Matt Araiza concedes there were moments during the past two years when he thought the 82-yard punt he uncorked in a preseason game for the Buffalo Bills might remain his only NFL effort.

“There were times that I didn’t and there were times that I did,” Araiza said Monday. “Honestly, it kept going back and forth in my mind. But yeah, there was a lot of moments where I thought it was over, so I’m incredibly grateful to be here.”

The “here” is training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs at Missouri Western State University, where Araiza aims to restart his NFL career. Two weeks after that 82-yard punt in a game against Indianapolis, a lawsuit was filed against Araiza alleging his involvement in the gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in 2021.

The San Diego County District attorney did not file charges in the case, and in July 2023 Araiza filed a defamation lawsuit against the accuser. The parties agreed to drop their lawsuits in December with neither side admitting wrongdoing and no money was involved.

Araiza said he’s trying to put the saga behind him.

“Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion. But I think if you do your own research, I think you can come to a pretty clear conclusion,” he said.

Throughout the last years, however, football has remained his focus.

“I love football. I love being out here,” Araiza said. "So it was on my mind a lot. It was tough to watch Sundays for sure. Really tough.”

The Chiefs signed Araiza as a free agent on Feb. 22, and he impressed special teams coordinator and assistant head coach Dave Toub during offseason workouts.

“Coming in, I consider him a rookie because he really only kicked one game and preseason and he was done. So as a rookie, he’s really above the line in my opinion," Toub said. "I think he’s way ahead right now. He’s really hitting some good punts in team periods. That’s what you want to see now. I mean, that’s one thing, but now you got to see him do it in a game. That’s a whole other level. We got to see that.”

The “Punt God” gets that opportunity Saturday when the Chiefs open the preseason at Jacksonville. Head coach Andy Reid offered his advice for the 24-year-old punter on Monday.

“I like him. Just keep working. Consistency always as you go," Reid said. "You can see it. I mean, he’s booming the thing. Be curious to see in games, let’s see how he does there.”

Araiza doesn’t care much for the “Punt God” nickname he picked up while kicking at San Diego State, but he turns more heartfelt when discussing his return to an NFL field on Saturday.

“It’s going to be pretty surreal. Definitely going to take it all in," Araiza said. "Like I said, just grateful for the opportunity and grateful to get back to that moment because that’s my favorite thing is being out there in a pressure situation in a game with the rush, pads on, everything. I think that’s where I’m at my best so I can’t wait to get back out there.”

NOTES: Wide receiver Kadarius Toney was a limited participant Monday in his first action since an ankle injury on July 31. … Linebacker Nick Bolton (elbow) missed his fourth practice Monday. … Defensive tackle Chris Jones sustained a shoulder stinger during practice but later returned. … Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden attended Chiefs practice Sunday and Monday. “He and I go way back 30 years, so we’ve known each other a long time,” Reid said. “So it’s good to get him up here. He’s always got good input on things, very smart, great football coach. Enjoy having him around, great energy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722892453783.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs punter Matt Araiza (49) walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp Saturday, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs punter Matt Araiza (49) walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp Saturday, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Matt Araiza concedes there were moments during the past two years when he thought the 82-yard punt he uncorked in a preseason game for the Buffalo Bills might remain his only NFL effort.“There were times that I didn’t and there were times that I did,” Araiza said Monday. “Honestly, it kept going back and forth in my mind. But yeah, there was a lot of moments where I thought it was over, so I’m incredibly grateful to be here.”The “here” is training camp for the Kansas City Chiefs at Missouri Western State University, where Araiza aims to restart his NFL career. Two weeks after that 82-yard punt in a game against Indianapolis, a lawsuit was filed against Araiza alleging his involvement in the gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in 2021.The San Diego County District attorney did not file charges in the case, and in July 2023 Araiza filed a defamation lawsuit against the accuser. The parties agreed to drop their lawsuits in December with neither side admitting wrongdoing and no money was involved.Araiza said he’s trying to put the saga behind him.“Everyone’s entitled to their own opinion. But I think if you do your own research, I think you can come to a pretty clear conclusion,” he said.Throughout the last years, however, football has remained his focus.“I love football. I love being out here,” Araiza said. "So it was on my mind a lot. It was tough to watch Sundays for sure. Really tough.”The Chiefs signed Araiza as a free agent on Feb. 22, and he impressed special teams coordinator and assistant head coach Dave Toub during offseason workouts.“Coming in, I consider him a rookie because he really only kicked one game and preseason and he was done. So as a rookie, he’s really above the line in my opinion," Toub said. "I think he’s way ahead right now. He’s really hitting some good punts in team periods. That’s what you want to see now. I mean, that’s one thing, but now you got to see him do it in a game. That’s a whole other level. We got to see that.”The “Punt God” gets that opportunity Saturday when the Chiefs open the preseason at Jacksonville. Head coach Andy Reid offered his advice for the 24-year-old punter on Monday.“I like him. Just keep working. Consistency always as you go," Reid said. "You can see it. I mean, he’s booming the thing. Be curious to see in games, let’s see how he does there.”Araiza doesn’t care much for the “Punt God” nickname he picked up while kicking at San Diego State, but he turns more heartfelt when discussing his return to an NFL field on Saturday.“It’s going to be pretty surreal. Definitely going to take it all in," Araiza said. "Like I said, just grateful for the opportunity and grateful to get back to that moment because that’s my favorite thing is being out there in a pressure situation in a game with the rush, pads on, everything. I think that’s where I’m at my best so I can’t wait to get back out there.”NOTES: Wide receiver Kadarius Toney was a limited participant Monday in his first action since an ankle injury on July 31. … Linebacker Nick Bolton (elbow) missed his fourth practice Monday. … Defensive tackle Chris Jones sustained a shoulder stinger during practice but later returned. … Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden attended Chiefs practice Sunday and Monday. “He and I go way back 30 years, so we’ve known each other a long time,” Reid said. “So it’s good to get him up here. He’s always got good input on things, very smart, great football coach. Enjoy having him around, great energy.”

🏈 Punter Araiza sees Chiefs Training Camp as a fresh start

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, who made the game-winning field goal in Kansas City’s Super Bowl victory two years ago, has agreed on a four-year contract extension that makes him the highest-paid kicker in the NFL.

Butker announced the deal on X, saying: “There’s no place I’d rather be than with the Chiefs, excited to finalize a 4 year extension. To the Heights!”

ESPN reported that Butker is receiving a $25.6 million extension that includes $17.75 million guaranteed.

Butker has converted 89.1% of his field goals (197 for 221) in seven seasons with the Chiefs. He’s made 70% percent (28 for 40) from beyond 50 yards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722892306920.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker waves to the fans as he walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp Saturday, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker waves to the fans as he walks to the field at the start of an NFL football training camp Saturday, July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, who made the game-winning field goal in Kansas City’s Super Bowl victory two years ago, has agreed on a four-year contract extension that makes him the highest-paid kicker in the NFL.Butker announced the deal on X, saying: “There’s no place I’d rather be than with the Chiefs, excited to finalize a 4 year extension. To the Heights!”ESPN reported that Butker is receiving a $25.6 million extension that includes $17.75 million guaranteed.Butker has converted 89.1% of his field goals (197 for 221) in seven seasons with the Chiefs. He’s made 70% percent (28 for 40) from beyond 50 yards.

🏈 Butker signs 4-year extension with Chiefs

Monday, August 5
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pm

Monday, August 5
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmTuesday, August 6&nbsp; KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmWednesday, August 7
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. Boston Red Sox, 6:30pmThursday, August 8Friday, August 9
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 6:30pmSaturday, August 10
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars, 5:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas City Royals vs. St. Louis Cardinals, 5:30pmSunday, 8/11

DETROIT (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday.

Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field.

Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722821513239.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday.Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field.Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.“I like to be in those situation — it is do or die and that's a lot of fun,” Melendez said. “I'm going to be ready late in games, whether they need me to hit or play defense. I have to stay as locked in as possible, just like I'm in the game.”Tigers manager A.J. Hinch used lefty Shelby Miller in the ninth, knowing the Royals would be sending up their left-handed hitters.“I think Shelby had given up eight hits against lefties all year going into that inning,” Hinch said. “They got two, two-strike hits from Renfroe and Fermin, and then a bad splitter to a guy who can hit the ball out of the park.”Chris Stratton (4-3) got the win with a scoreless eighth. The Royals' Hunter Harvey, who squandered a two-run lead in the ninth inning of a 6-5, 11-inning loss on Saturday, pitched the ninth for his first save.“We acquired (Harvey) to pitch in high-leverage situations, and that was high leverage,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “There's a reason we gave up good players to get him, so we're not going to run away from one bad outing.”The Royals have won six of their last seven games.“We talked a lot about how they got one from us yesterday late, and then we turned around and did that today,” Quatraro said. “That's why you can't get too high or too low, because the same thing will happen to you.”The Tigers went 2-7 on a nine-game homestand against Minnesota, Cleveland and Kansas City.The Tigers have two healthy starting pitchers after trading Jack Flaherty, so manager Hinch has relied heavily on his bullpen. On Sunday, he got four scoreless innings from Alex Faedo and Brenan Hanifee before turning the ball over to Brant Hurter for his major league debut.The Tigers took a 1-0 lead when Zach McKinstry tripled and scored on Gio Urshela's two-out single in the second inning. Matt Vierling made it 2-0 in the fifth, driving in Javier Baez with a sacrifice fly.Hurter struck out Salvador Perez and Paul DeJong to get out of a jam in the sixth inning, and allowed two hits before leaving after the seventh. Will Vest pitched the eighth, but Miller couldn't finish it.“Our pitching was awesome,” Hinch said. “Faedo had to battle and Hanifee came in and got the ball on the ground. They stacked the lineup expecting to see Hurter, and he got us once through the order. After that, we had avenues to get it done, so it is a gut-punch to lose.”Miller (5-7) worked two-thirds of an inning and took the loss.UP NEXTRoyals: Open a three-game home series against the Red Sox on Monday. RHP Brady Singer (8-6, 2.88) is scheduled to start against Boston LHP James Paxton (8-3, 4.52).Tigers: After an off day Monday, take on the Mariners for three games in Seattle. Detroit's RHP Keider Montero (1-5, 6.18) is scheduled to start Tuesday. Seattle has not named a starter.___