
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States Supreme Court has handed down several big decisions in the last several days, but one of the ones that could mean a lot to Presidential elections going forward is a decision they made on faithless electors.

"The court, in a majority opinion held that a state can mandate an elector to vote in a particular way and can have these sorts of penalties if an elector chooses not to follow that mandate," said KU Law professor Lou Mulligan.

In 2016, seven of the 535 electors cast votes at odds with the popular-vote winners and three attempted to do so.

"Every state has some different scheme by which electors are obligated to follow the vote of the populace," Mulligan said. "Whether its by pledge or some sort of penalty or removal or fine, the states have different schemes."

The court held that regardless of the scheme, that power is the state's. This could even make the movement to have the popular vote decide the Presidency able to be executed without getting rid of the Electoral College, at least in theory.

"Each state could say, "My electors don't do what state voters do, but you vote pursuant to the national vote, rather, yeah, I think that this opinion would say if your state wants to have that state law and bind its electors that way, it can do that."

That would mean such an agreement would not require an act of Congress, but rather of the state legislature in each state.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The United States Supreme Court has handed down several big decisions in the last several days, but one of the ones that could mean a lot to Presidential elections going forward is a decision they made on faithless electors."The court, in a majority opinion held that a state can mandate an elector to vote in a particular way and can have these sorts of penalties if an elector chooses not to follow that mandate," said KU Law professor Lou Mulligan.In 2016, seven of the 535 electors cast votes at odds with the popular-vote winners and three attempted to do so."Every state has some different scheme by which electors are obligated to follow the vote of the populace," Mulligan said. "Whether its by pledge or some sort of penalty or removal or fine, the states have different schemes."The court held that regardless of the scheme, that power is the state's. This could even make the movement to have the popular vote decide the Presidency able to be executed without getting rid of the Electoral College, at least in theory."Each state could say, "My electors don't do what state voters do, but you vote pursuant to the national vote, rather, yeah, I think that this opinion would say if your state wants to have that state law and bind its electors that way, it can do that."That would mean such an agreement would not require an act of Congress, but rather of the state legislature in each state.

Electors can be penalized, KU law professor sees opening for change

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Saturday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Ram driven by&nbsp; Ronald D. Partlow, 46, Hutchinson, was northbound on K14 just south of Arlington Road when he fell asleep. 

The pickup drifted into the east ditch where it rolled two and a half times and came to rest on its roof.

EMS transported&nbsp;Partlow to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6p.m. Saturday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Dodge Ram driven by&nbsp; Ronald D. Partlow, 46, Hutchinson, was northbound on K14 just south of Arlington Road when he fell asleep. The pickup drifted into the east ditch where it rolled two and a half times and came to rest on its roof.EMS transported&nbsp;Partlow to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man from Hutchinson hospitalized after he falls asleep, pickup rolls

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — About $30,000 remains from the CDBG-CV grant that was awarded to Hutchinson in June. The subcommittee that was formed to dole out that money has decided to take a little different approach with some of the remaining funds by giving an opportunity for home-based daycare to receive financial help.&nbsp;

“As people go back to work and look for child care and school is up in the air, we wanted to make sure there were some funds available for that,” said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. “ What the City Council has said is that they would like to keep some of those funds and do just grants for home-based daycare.”

The County also received similar funding but has not had the response the city has had. When the county extended the deadline for applications, it was flooded with proposals from Hutchinson. Hvitlok says unfortunately those businesses will not be able to take advantage of the county funds.

“That’s kind of the catch, unfortunately," Hvitlok said. “The county also was awarded those funds allocated directly for communities outside of Hutchinson."

Hvitlok says another round of applications will be taken later this month for businesses who may want assistance.

“We are working on the details on how much will actually be left over,” Hvitlok said. “Once we do that, we’ll see where the numbers line up and we’ll do a second small round of general applications probably towards the latter end of July.”&nbsp;

Hvitlok says once they address the daycare funding they hope to have about $15,000 to $20,000 left over for the second round of applications.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — About $30,000 remains from the CDBG-CV grant that was awarded to Hutchinson in June. The subcommittee that was formed to dole out that money has decided to take a little different approach with some of the remaining funds by giving an opportunity for home-based daycare to receive financial help.&nbsp;“As people go back to work and look for child care and school is up in the air, we wanted to make sure there were some funds available for that,” said Ryan Hvitlok with the City of Hutchinson. “ What the City Council has said is that they would like to keep some of those funds and do just grants for home-based daycare.”The County also received similar funding but has not had the response the city has had. When the county extended the deadline for applications, it was flooded with proposals from Hutchinson. Hvitlok says unfortunately those businesses will not be able to take advantage of the county funds.“That’s kind of the catch, unfortunately," Hvitlok said. “The county also was awarded those funds allocated directly for communities outside of Hutchinson."Hvitlok says another round of applications will be taken later this month for businesses who may want assistance.“We are working on the details on how much will actually be left over,” Hvitlok said. “Once we do that, we’ll see where the numbers line up and we’ll do a second small round of general applications probably towards the latter end of July.”&nbsp;Hvitlok says once they address the daycare funding they hope to have about $15,000 to $20,000 left over for the second round of applications.

City wants portion of CDBG-CV funds to go to daycare

NEWTON, Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed 18 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:

· A female in her 70s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 60s. She had known out-of-state travel. · A female in her 50s. This case is under investigation. · A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 40s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 40s. She is a close contact of a known active case. She has already met recovery criteria. · A female in her 30s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. He had known out-of-state travel. · A male in his 50s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown. · A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case. · A male between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation. He has already met recovery criteria.

All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.

Harvey County has had 81 COVID-19 cases to date, including 77 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 35 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals remain hospitalized. There have been 2,118 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

<figure>
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 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. —The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed 18 new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County. The confirmed cases include:· A female in her 70s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 60s. She had known out-of-state travel. · A female in her 50s. This case is under investigation. · A female in her 50s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 40s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 40s. She is a close contact of a known active case. She has already met recovery criteria. · A female in her 30s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. Her source of exposure is unknown. · A female in her 20s. She was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A female in her 20s. She is a close contact of a known active case. · A female in her 20s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. This case is under investigation. · A male in his 60s. He had known out-of-state travel. · A male in his 50s. He was in contact with another individual with COVID-19 in another county. · A male in his 40s. His source of exposure is unknown. · A male in his 30s. He is a close contact of a known active case. · A male between 10-and-19 years old. This case is under investigation. He has already met recovery criteria.All of the above individuals are in home isolation. The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all close contacts.Harvey County has had 81 COVID-19 cases to date, including 77 confirmed and four probable cases. There are 35 known active cases in Harvey County. Two individuals remain hospitalized. There have been 2,118 tests for COVID-19 conducted in Harvey County.

Harvey County confirms eighteen more cases of COVID-19, currently 35 active

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Party clarified the format for the upcoming forum Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

The July 14th event will be for a debate between Senator Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, candidates for State Senate district 34 at 7 p.m. &amp; the Big 1st Congressional candidates Tracey Mann and Dr. Bill Clifford at 8 p.m. 

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital pavilion.

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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Republican Party clarified the format for the upcoming forum Tuesday night at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.The July 14th event will be for a debate between Senator Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, candidates for State Senate district 34 at 7 p.m. &amp; the Big 1st Congressional candidates Tracey Mann and Dr. Bill Clifford at 8 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. in the hospital pavilion.

Format clarified for pair of Republican debates Tuesday

BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will have a long list of things to take care of to kick off the new fiscal year on Monday.&nbsp;

The board will go through the usual new year items, including establishing funds for all schools along with committee and staff appointments.

The board will also go over numerous employment matters and hold several executive sessions for personnel. Some action may be taken on those matters.

Finally, the board will go over supplemental and services contracts for the next school year and approve a memorandum of understanding with Horizons Mental Health Center.

Monday’s meeting of the Buhler USD 313 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Buhler High School Library.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 School Board will have a long list of things to take care of to kick off the new fiscal year on Monday.&nbsp;The board will go through the usual new year items, including establishing funds for all schools along with committee and staff appointments.The board will also go over numerous employment matters and hold several executive sessions for personnel. Some action may be taken on those matters.Finally, the board will go over supplemental and services contracts for the next school year and approve a memorandum of understanding with Horizons Mental Health Center.Monday’s meeting of the Buhler USD 313 School Board begins at 6 p.m. at the Buhler High School Library.

Buhler USD 313 meets to start new business year Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday brought some good news for Hutchinson motorists. The intersection of 11th and Main is open again as the North Main projects moved further south.&nbsp;

Work over the next week will include new sidewalks between 11th and 12th Avenues, and new sewer line work between 11th and 10th. Work will then proceed south between 10th and 8th Avenue. Access to Main will be restricted in those areas.&nbsp;

Most of the work will be on the west side of Main and traffic will be restricted in those areas. The west intersection of 9th and Main is now closed.

If you need any information on this or any other city street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday brought some good news for Hutchinson motorists. The intersection of 11th and Main is open again as the North Main projects moved further south.&nbsp;Work over the next week will include new sidewalks between 11th and 12th Avenues, and new sewer line work between 11th and 10th. Work will then proceed south between 10th and 8th Avenue. Access to Main will be restricted in those areas.&nbsp;Most of the work will be on the west side of Main and traffic will be restricted in those areas. The west intersection of 9th and Main is now closed.If you need any information on this or any other city street project contact Hutchinson Public Works at 620-694-1900.

11th and Main now open

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is further altering its events schedule in the wake of the pandemic.

The Chamber announced Friday that its July 15 luncheon will now be held on Zoom instead of in person. The event was scheduled for the Crystal Ballroom.

The event is scheduled for noon and with Kansas Gas Service as the host. The speaker will be Scott Sewell with Kansas Main Street.

Registration can be done online at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/VirtualMembership%20Luncheon%20%20Sponsored%20by%20Kansas%20Gas%20Service-6416/details">hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is further altering its events schedule in the wake of the pandemic.The Chamber announced Friday that its July 15 luncheon will now be held on Zoom instead of in person. The event was scheduled for the Crystal Ballroom.The event is scheduled for noon and with Kansas Gas Service as the host. The speaker will be Scott Sewell with Kansas Main Street.Registration can be done online at <a href="https://members.hutchchamber.com/events/VirtualMembership%20Luncheon%20%20Sponsored%20by%20Kansas%20Gas%20Service-6416/details">hutchchamber.com</a>.

Chamber lunch event will be on Zoom

KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman living with a water emergency this week received good news Friday morning. The Kansas Department of Health lifted the do not drink order.

The state issued the order due to high levels of nitrate in secondary water sources activated to meet the needs of the community, according to a media release from the city.

The secondary water source is not longer in use and and all other conditions that placed the water system at risk of contamination are resolved, according to the KDHE.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594053743620.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY—Residents in Kingman living with a water emergency this week received good news Friday morning. The Kansas Department of Health lifted the do not drink order.The state issued the order due to high levels of nitrate in secondary water sources activated to meet the needs of the community, according to a media release from the city.The secondary water source is not longer in use and and all other conditions that placed the water system at risk of contamination are resolved, according to the KDHE.

6 day water emergency in Kingman is over

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man wanted for a parole violation was arrested in Hutchinson after he fled from law enforcement Thursday night.

Gabriel Sanchez is being held on a bond of $29,300 on numerous counts including flee and elude, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and criminal damage to property.

According to police, Sanchez was spotted in the 500 block of E. Avenue A around 9 p.m. When authorities tried to take him into custody he got in a vehicle and tried to flee. Sanchez allegedly rammed a patrol officer’s vehicle and drove at two police officers before leaving the area. The chase wound its way from Avenue A into South Hutchinson before heading back into the city.&nbsp;

The chase ended when Sanchez lost control of the truck he was driving and crashed at the intersection of Sherman and Severance where he was taken into custody.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson man wanted for a parole violation was arrested in Hutchinson after he fled from law enforcement Thursday night.Gabriel Sanchez is being held on a bond of $29,300 on numerous counts including flee and elude, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and criminal damage to property.According to police, Sanchez was spotted in the 500 block of E. Avenue A around 9 p.m. When authorities tried to take him into custody he got in a vehicle and tried to flee. Sanchez allegedly rammed a patrol officer’s vehicle and drove at two police officers before leaving the area. The chase wound its way from Avenue A into South Hutchinson before heading back into the city.&nbsp;The chase ended when Sanchez lost control of the truck he was driving and crashed at the intersection of Sherman and Severance where he was taken into custody.There were no injuries reported.

Hutchinson man arrested after chase through the city

Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

UNDATED (AP) — Northern Kentucky basketball player Karl Harris is persevering through difficult times. He grew up with no real memories of his father, lost his brother in a case of mistaken identity and survived daily trips through a rough part of Chicago on his way to school. Harris remained dedicated in the classroom and on the court, earning a Division I scholarship and becoming the first male in his family to earn a college degree. His dream of playing in the NCAA Tournament was wiped out by the coronavirus pandemic, but Harris is already focused on his next goals. He has some workouts lined up for pro teams in Turkey. He also plans a trip to Los Angeles to learn more about the film industry. Says Harris: "It's just continuing to grind every day."

Yanks closer Chapman has coronavirus; Astros cancel workout

HOUSTON (AP) — Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman has tested positive for the coronavirus and is experiencing mild symptoms. New York manager Aaron Boone announced the news Saturday. He said Chapman "overall is doing well" but "will not be here for the foreseeable future." 

Chapman threw a bullpen session Tuesday and Boone wouldn't comment on whether he had been at Yankee Stadium since. Boone said the team had gone through contact tracing protocols, and no other players or personnel would be forced to isolate because of Chapman's positive test.

New York is also without infielder DJ LeMahieu (leh-MAY'-hyoo) and right-hander Luis Cessa (SEH'-suh) due to the virus. Yankees slugger Aaron Judge was scratched from a simulated game with a stiff neck.

The AL East champion Yankees open the season July 23 at Washington.

In Houston, the Astros canceled their workout Saturday after learning that a staff member could have been exposed to a person outside the organization with the coronavirus. It's the second time this week the Astros have canceled a workout because of concerns about the pandemic. Houston also scrapped its Monday workout because of delays with testing results due to the holiday weekend, as did some other teams around the majors. 

— Texas Rangers outfielder Joey Gallo says he doesn't know if he actually had the coronavirus despite two positive tests, since he never had any symptoms and also had multiple negative tests. Gallo said Saturday that he planned to have a more extensive antibody test to be sure after a finger-prick test didn't indicate that he had COVID-19. The All-Star slugger missed the first week of the Rangers summer camp after two positive tests that sandwiched a negative result during intake testing. 

— Cleveland Indians outfielder Delino DeShields (deh-LY'-noh deh-SHEELDZ') Jr. worked out with his teammates at training camp for the first time after being sidelined by the COVID-19 virus. DeShields had suffered some "mild symptoms" after testing positive with the virus before the Indians reported to Cleveland for the re-start of training camp last week. DeShields arrived a few days ago, but he was only cleared Saturday after twice testing negative. DeShields is one of 10 outfielders trying to win a spot on the club's 30-man roster. He batted .249 and stole 24 bases in 118 games for the Rangers last season.

— Yoenis Céspedes (yoh-EHN'-ehs SEHS'-peh-dehs) is sure he'll be ready to start the pandemic-delayed season with the New York Mets. Out of the lineup for almost two years, the 34-year-old slugger said Saturday he finally is close to fully recovered from a string of injuries to his feet and legs. The Mets open at home July 24 against Atlanta. And with the designated hitter available in the National League this year, Céspedes is a prime candidate for that role during a shortened schedule of 60 games. The two-time All-Star missed last season and most of 2018. He had surgery on both heels and then broke his right ankle in a nasty fall at his Florida ranch.

— Albert Pujols' 20th season in the majors is about to begin with the Los Angeles Angels. When it does, the 40-year-old slugger is likely to be the oldest player in the big leagues. Although time has chipped away at Pujols' mountainous talent, he has never believed his advancing age will prevent him from putting up other big numbers on the diamond. His recent years of diminishing overall production have been counterbalanced by still-steady power numbers. They've done nothing to hurt his confidence as he heads into this short season with big plans.

Stars' Polak, Canucks' Baertschi won't report to NHL camps

UNDATED (AP) — Edmonton's Mike Green and Vancouver's Sven Baertschi are opting out. Dallas defenseman Roman Polak isn't reporting for now. And Tampa Bay captain Steven Stamkos isn't reporting at full strength. 

Green and Baertschi joined Calgary defenseman Travis Hamonic in choosing not to participate in the resumption of the NHL season. Polak is not on the Stars' roster for the start of training camp, and a team spokesman said the 34-year-old won't be attending at this time. Green and Hamonic decided not to play for family reasons. 

The Tampa Bay Lightning won't have captain Steven Stamkos at 100% for the opening of camp because of a lower-body injury, but they're optimistic he'll be ready when games get under way in early August.

The Minnesota Wild, who face the Canucks in the qualifying round, have ruled out defenseman Greg Pateryn indefinitely with an upper-body injury. 

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Saturday the league will be taking over injury and illness disclosure from teams as a way of protecting player privacy. 

LeBron won't wear social justice message on Lakers jersey

UNDATED (AP) — LeBron James says his thoughts on social justice can't be contained on the back of a basketball jersey. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar won't wear one of the NBA-approved social justice messages on the back of his jersey when the NBA resumes competition later this month in the Orlando bubble.

As part of the NBA's recognition of the nationwide invigoration of the social justice movement sparked by the death of George Floyd, NBA players are allowed to choose from a lengthy list of possible messages for their jerseys during the league's restart. James is among just a few who declined to choose one of the messages.

— Houston Rockets stars James Harden and Russell Westbrook did not travel with the team to Orlando and did not participate in the team's first practice. Coach Mike D'Antoni didn't provide a reason for their absence but said he expects both players to join the team in Florida soon. Houston's first game is July 31 against the Dallas Mavericks.

— San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich says he had some reservations about being at the NBA restart at the Disney complex near Orlando, Florida. But after talks with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and others, he decided it would be smart and safe to be with the Spurs for the resumption of the season. Popovich says it's about more than basketball. He points to how the league can help make changes in society by raising awareness to social causes and a need to combat racism. Meanwhile, Popovich, who is also the U.S. men's basketball coach, says he is watching how Japan is handling the coronavirus. The NBA plans to start next season in December, which could complicate Olympic availability for players. It's not clear if the playoffs would be finished before the Olympics would begin on July 23, 2021.

Thomas keeps clean card for 2-shot lead at Muirfield Village

DUBLIN, Ohio (AP) — Justin Thomas went from a three-shot deficit to a two-shot lead in the Workday Charity Open. Thomas had a third consecutive round without bogeys, this one a 66. He made birdies early to keep pace with Collin Morikawa. When Morikawa fell back, Thomas added three birdies to hold off Viktor Hovland. The Norwegian star also had a 66. 

The final round is a glimpse of golf's next generation. All three will be in the final group because of an early start to avoid storms. The round needs to finish Sunday to have a day to get ready for the Memorial.

UNDATED (AP) — The Pac-12 has become the second major conference to shift to a conference-only fall schedule amid growing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. The decision covers football, women's and women's soccer and women's volleyball. Conference-only schedules will be announced no later than July 31. 

The announcement came a day after the Big Ten opted to eliminate nonconference games for all fall sports. The Atlantic Coast, Big 12 and Southeastern conferences are still weighing options for fall sports. 

In other developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic: 

— Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott has tested positive for COVID-19. The 55-year-old tested positive late this week after experiencing flu-like symptoms and is self-quarantining at the direction of his doctor, according to a statement by the conference. Scott is continuing to carry on his duties as commissioner remotely.

— The Indy Eleven has resumed its United Soccer League season with fans inside Lucas Oil Stadium, a home they share with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts. The retractable roof was supposed to be open, but late afternoon storms forced team officials to keep it closed. Before entering, fans were required to undergo temperature checks and go through contactless security checkpoints. They also were required to wear face coverings.

— Scott Dixon earned his third straight victory Saturday with an improbable triumph in the opening race of a weekend doubleheader at Road America, as IndyCar welcomed fans to its races for the first time this season. Dixon has won each of the three IndyCar races to take place thus far during this pandemic-delayed season. He's the first IndyCar driver to start a season with at least three consecutive victories since Sebastien Bourdais reeled off four straight to start the 2006 campaign.

— The NHRA has resumed its season in front of fans at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis. Tommy Johnson Jr. topped Funny Car qualifying Saturday at the NHRA Nationals in the series' return from a more than four-month break because of the coronavirus pandemic. Johnson was the winner in the last race before competition was suspended.

Art Collector takes the Blue Grass at Keeneland

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Art Collector took a big step toward the Kentucky Derby, pulling away from the filly Swiss Skydiver in the stretch in the Blue Grass at Keeneland for his first graded stakes victory. 

The Kentucky-bred son of Bernardini and Distorted Legacy by Distorted Humor started the $600,000, Grade 2 event from the No. 3 post and battled Shivaree and Swiss Skydiver to the far turn. Rushie joined the chase at the final turn, but before Art Collector and Swiss Skydiver separated themselves from the 13-horse field. The two ran side by side before Art Collector took control at the 1/8th pole in the 3½-lengths win. 

Art Collector improved to 3-0 this year and has four wins and a second in eight starts. The colt collected 100 points toward the 146th Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.

<h2>Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press</h2>UNDATED (AP) — Northern Kentucky basketball player Karl Harris is persevering through difficult times. He grew up with no real memories of his father, lost his brother in a case of mistaken identity and survived daily trips through a rough part of Chicago on his way to school. Harris remained dedicated in the classroom and on the court, earning a Division I scholarship and becoming the first male in his family to earn a college degree. His dream of playing in the NCAA Tournament was wiped out by the coronavirus pandemic, but Harris is already focused on his next goals. He has some workouts lined up for pro teams in Turkey. He also plans a trip to Los Angeles to learn more about the film industry. Says Harris: "It's just continuing to grind every day."Update on the latest sportsMLB-NEWSYanks closer Chapman has coronavirus; Astros cancel workoutHOUSTON (AP) — Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman has tested positive for the coronavirus and is experiencing mild symptoms. New York manager Aaron Boone announced the news Saturday. He said Chapman "overall is doing well" but "will not be here for the foreseeable future." Chapman threw a bullpen session Tuesday and Boone wouldn't comment on whether he had been at Yankee Stadium since. Boone said the team had gone through contact tracing protocols, and no other players or personnel would be forced to isolate because of Chapman's positive test.New York is also without infielder DJ LeMahieu (leh-MAY'-hyoo) and right-hander Luis Cessa (SEH'-suh) due to the virus. Yankees slugger Aaron Judge was scratched from a simulated game with a stiff neck.The AL East champion Yankees open the season July 23 at Washington.In Houston, the Astros canceled their workout Saturday after learning that a staff member could have been exposed to a person outside the organization with the coronavirus. It's the second time this week the Astros have canceled a workout because of concerns about the pandemic. Houston also scrapped its Monday workout because of delays with testing results due to the holiday weekend, as did some other teams around the majors. In other MLB news:— Texas Rangers outfielder Joey Gallo says he doesn't know if he actually had the coronavirus despite two positive tests, since he never had any symptoms and also had multiple negative tests. Gallo said Saturday that he planned to have a more extensive antibody test to be sure after a finger-prick test didn't indicate that he had COVID-19. The All-Star slugger missed the first week of the Rangers summer camp after two positive tests that sandwiched a negative result during intake testing. — Cleveland Indians outfielder Delino DeShields (deh-LY'-noh deh-SHEELDZ') Jr. worked out with his teammates at training camp for the first time after being sidelined by the COVID-19 virus. DeShields had suffered some "mild symptoms" after testing positive with the virus before the Indians reported to Cleveland for the re-start of training camp last week. DeShields arrived a few days ago, but he was only cleared Saturday after twice testing negative. DeShields is one of 10 outfielders trying to win a spot on the club's 30-man roster. He batted .249 and stole 24 bases in 118 games for the Rangers last season.— Yoenis Céspedes (yoh-EHN'-ehs SEHS'-peh-dehs) is sure he'll be ready to start the pandemic-delayed season with the New York Mets. Out of the lineup for almost two years, the 34-year-old slugger said Saturday he finally is close to fully recovered from a string of injuries to his feet and legs. The Mets open at home July 24 against Atlanta. And with the designated hitter available in the National League this year, Céspedes is a prime candidate for that role during a shortened schedule of 60 games. The two-time All-Star missed last season and most of 2018. He had surgery on both heels and then broke his right ankle in a nasty fall at his Florida ranch.— Albert Pujols' 20th season in the majors is about to begin with the Los Angeles Angels. When it does, the 40-year-old slugger is likely to be the oldest player in the big leagues. Although time has chipped away at Pujols' mountainous talent, he has never believed his advancing age will prevent him from putting up other big numbers on the diamond. His recent years of diminishing overall production have been counterbalanced by still-steady power numbers. They've done nothing to hurt his confidence as he heads into this short season with big plans.NHL-PLAYERS OUTStars' Polak, Canucks' Baertschi won't report to NHL campsUNDATED (AP) — Edmonton's Mike Green and Vancouver's Sven Baertschi are opting out. Dallas defenseman Roman Polak isn't reporting for now. And Tampa Bay captain Steven Stamkos isn't reporting at full strength. Green and Baertschi joined Calgary defenseman Travis Hamonic in choosing not to participate in the resumption of the NHL season. Polak is not on the Stars' roster for the start of training camp, and a team spokesman said the 34-year-old won't be attending at this time. Green and Hamonic decided not to play for family reasons. The Tampa Bay Lightning won't have captain Steven Stamkos at 100% for the opening of camp because of a lower-body injury, but they're optimistic he'll be ready when games get under way in early August.The Minnesota Wild, who face the Canucks in the qualifying round, have ruled out defenseman Greg Pateryn indefinitely with an upper-body injury. NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Saturday the league will be taking over injury and illness disclosure from teams as a way of protecting player privacy. NBA-NEWSLeBron won't wear social justice message on Lakers jerseyUNDATED (AP) — LeBron James says his thoughts on social justice can't be contained on the back of a basketball jersey. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar won't wear one of the NBA-approved social justice messages on the back of his jersey when the NBA resumes competition later this month in the Orlando bubble.As part of the NBA's recognition of the nationwide invigoration of the social justice movement sparked by the death of George Floyd, NBA players are allowed to choose from a lengthy list of possible messages for their jerseys during the league's restart. James is among just a few who declined to choose one of the messages.In other NBA news:— Houston Rockets stars James Harden and Russell Westbrook did not travel with the team to Orlando and did not participate in the team's first practice. Coach Mike D'Antoni didn't provide a reason for their absence but said he expects both players to join the team in Florida soon. Houston's first game is July 31 against the Dallas Mavericks.— San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich says he had some reservations about being at the NBA restart at the Disney complex near Orlando, Florida. But after talks with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and others, he decided it would be smart and safe to be with the Spurs for the resumption of the season. Popovich says it's about more than basketball. He points to how the league can help make changes in society by raising awareness to social causes and a need to combat racism. Meanwhile, Popovich, who is also the U.S. men's basketball coach, says he is watching how Japan is handling the coronavirus. The NBA plans to start next season in December, which could complicate Olympic availability for players. It's not clear if the playoffs would be finished before the Olympics would begin on July 23, 2021.PGA-WORKDAY OPENThomas keeps clean card for 2-shot lead at Muirfield VillageDUBLIN, Ohio (AP) — Justin Thomas went from a three-shot deficit to a two-shot lead in the Workday Charity Open. Thomas had a third consecutive round without bogeys, this one a 66. He made birdies early to keep pace with Collin Morikawa. When Morikawa fell back, Thomas added three birdies to hold off Viktor Hovland. The Norwegian star also had a 66. The final round is a glimpse of golf's next generation. All three will be in the final group because of an early start to avoid storms. The round needs to finish Sunday to have a day to get ready for the Memorial.VIRUS OUTBREAK-SPORTSPAC-12 shifts to conference-onlyUNDATED (AP) — The Pac-12 has become the second major conference to shift to a conference-only fall schedule amid growing concerns over the coronavirus pandemic. The decision covers football, women's and women's soccer and women's volleyball. Conference-only schedules will be announced no later than July 31. The announcement came a day after the Big Ten opted to eliminate nonconference games for all fall sports. The Atlantic Coast, Big 12 and Southeastern conferences are still weighing options for fall sports. In other developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic: — Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott has tested positive for COVID-19. The 55-year-old tested positive late this week after experiencing flu-like symptoms and is self-quarantining at the direction of his doctor, according to a statement by the conference. Scott is continuing to carry on his duties as commissioner remotely.— San Antonio coach Gregg — The Indy Eleven has resumed its United Soccer League season with fans inside Lucas Oil Stadium, a home they share with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts. The retractable roof was supposed to be open, but late afternoon storms forced team officials to keep it closed. Before entering, fans were required to undergo temperature checks and go through contactless security checkpoints. They also were required to wear face coverings.— Scott Dixon earned his third straight victory Saturday with an improbable triumph in the opening race of a weekend doubleheader at Road America, as IndyCar welcomed fans to its races for the first time this season. Dixon has won each of the three IndyCar races to take place thus far during this pandemic-delayed season. He's the first IndyCar driver to start a season with at least three consecutive victories since Sebastien Bourdais reeled off four straight to start the 2006 campaign.— The NHRA has resumed its season in front of fans at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis. Tommy Johnson Jr. topped Funny Car qualifying Saturday at the NHRA Nationals in the series' return from a more than four-month break because of the coronavirus pandemic. Johnson was the winner in the last race before competition was suspended.HORSE RACING-ART COLLECTORArt Collector takes the Blue Grass at KeenelandLEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Art Collector took a big step toward the Kentucky Derby, pulling away from the filly Swiss Skydiver in the stretch in the Blue Grass at Keeneland for his first graded stakes victory. The Kentucky-bred son of Bernardini and Distorted Legacy by Distorted Humor started the $600,000, Grade 2 event from the No. 3 post and battled Shivaree and Swiss Skydiver to the far turn. Rushie joined the chase at the final turn, but before Art Collector and Swiss Skydiver separated themselves from the 13-horse field. The two ran side by side before Art Collector took control at the 1/8th pole in the 3½-lengths win. Art Collector improved to 3-0 this year and has four wins and a second in eight starts. The colt collected 100 points toward the 146th Derby on Sept. 5 at Churchill Downs.

Sunday Sports Headlines

HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs (16-4) pounded out a team record 18 hits of the Great Bend Bat Cats pitching with Taylor Barber leading the charge with 5 RBI's going 3 for 5 on the night.&nbsp; Barber picked up his Monarch career 163rd hit in the 2nd inning to drive in two runs to take over the career hits crown from former Monarch Trevor Turner.

Hutchinson got a solid start from Mikel Howell who went 5 innings while giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while striking out 5 to get the win.&nbsp; Great Bend's Joe Richter took the loss.

The Monarchs got multiple hit games from Barber, Dylan Nedved, Drew Reetz, Clayton Chadwick and Austin Hamm to lead Hutchinson in hitting.&nbsp; Those five attributed to 14 of the 18 Monarch hits on the night&nbsp; plus 9 of the 13 runs.

Relievers Josh Fortenberry and Aaron Haase came on in the seventh and ninth innings respectively to shut the door on the Bat Cats.&nbsp; Fortenberry pitched 2 innings and struck out 4.

Same two teams meet tonight with an earlier that usual start at 6 pm at Hobart-Detter field in Carey Park.&nbsp; Monday is an off day for the Monarchs, then Tuesday they travel to Wichita State's Eck stadium to wrap up the four game series with the Bat Cats in the early 5 pm contest at Eck Stadium.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs (16-4) pounded out a team record 18 hits of the Great Bend Bat Cats pitching with Taylor Barber leading the charge with 5 RBI's going 3 for 5 on the night.&nbsp; Barber picked up his Monarch career 163rd hit in the 2nd inning to drive in two runs to take over the career hits crown from former Monarch Trevor Turner.Hutchinson got a solid start from Mikel Howell who went 5 innings while giving up 4 runs on 5 hits while striking out 5 to get the win.&nbsp; Great Bend's Joe Richter took the loss.The Monarchs got multiple hit games from Barber, Dylan Nedved, Drew Reetz, Clayton Chadwick and Austin Hamm to lead Hutchinson in hitting.&nbsp; Those five attributed to 14 of the 18 Monarch hits on the night&nbsp; plus 9 of the 13 runs.Relievers Josh Fortenberry and Aaron Haase came on in the seventh and ninth innings respectively to shut the door on the Bat Cats.&nbsp; Fortenberry pitched 2 innings and struck out 4.Same two teams meet tonight with an earlier that usual start at 6 pm at Hobart-Detter field in Carey Park.&nbsp; Monday is an off day for the Monarchs, then Tuesday they travel to Wichita State's Eck stadium to wrap up the four game series with the Bat Cats in the early 5 pm contest at Eck Stadium.

Monarchs slam Bat Cats; Barber sets career hits mark

LUBBOCK, Tx. -College football’s national signing periods start in five and seven months, respectively, and Texas Tech just picked up its ninth oral commitment for the class on Friday. The Red Raiders already have a big chunk of the class’s defensive line in place, though.

DeMeco Roland, a defensive tackle from Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College, made his pledge to the Red Raiders on Friday. He’s the fourth defensive linemen in the class, joining ends E’Maurion Banks from Wichita Falls Rider and Charles Esters III from Cedar Hill and nose tackle Solomon Wright from Vian, Oklahoma.

Hutchinson lists Roland at 6-foot-3 and 306 pounds. As a freshman last season, he was credited with five tackles, including 1 1/2 tackles for loss.

According to recruiting services, Roland also has been offered scholarships by Arkansas, Arkansas State, Nevada, North Texas, Syracuse and UT-San Antonio.

As a high-school senior in 2018, Roland was a starter on the Oklahoma Class 6A state championship team at Broken Arrow. He was credited with 47 tackles, including seven tackles for loss and two sacks, helping Broken Arrow go 13-0.

Before that season, he was listed by The Oklahoman as the state’s No. 23 prospect on the newspaper’s Super 30 list of top recruits.

Roland’s hometown just outside Tulsa, Oklahoma, is 13 miles from that of Texas Tech offensive line coach Steve Farmer, who’s from Coweta, and 82 miles from Tech coach Matt Wells’ hometown of Sallisaw.

Roland committed to North Texas out of high school, but wound up going the junior-college route.

The NJCAA announced on Thursday its recommendation that the majority of fall sports competition move to the spring of 2021 as a precaution against the COVID-19 outbreak. Roland told Red Raider Sports he plans to graduate from Hutchinson in December and then transfer to Tech.

LUBBOCK, Tx. -College football’s national signing periods start in five and seven months, respectively, and Texas Tech just picked up its ninth oral commitment for the class on Friday. The Red Raiders already have a big chunk of the class’s defensive line in place, though.DeMeco Roland, a defensive tackle from Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College, made his pledge to the Red Raiders on Friday. He’s the fourth defensive linemen in the class, joining ends E’Maurion Banks from Wichita Falls Rider and Charles Esters III from Cedar Hill and nose tackle Solomon Wright from Vian, Oklahoma.Hutchinson lists Roland at 6-foot-3 and 306 pounds. As a freshman last season, he was credited with five tackles, including 1 1/2 tackles for loss.According to recruiting services, Roland also has been offered scholarships by Arkansas, Arkansas State, Nevada, North Texas, Syracuse and UT-San Antonio.As a high-school senior in 2018, Roland was a starter on the Oklahoma Class 6A state championship team at Broken Arrow. He was credited with 47 tackles, including seven tackles for loss and two sacks, helping Broken Arrow go 13-0.Before that season, he was listed by The Oklahoman as the state’s No. 23 prospect on the newspaper’s Super 30 list of top recruits.Roland’s hometown just outside Tulsa, Oklahoma, is 13 miles from that of Texas Tech offensive line coach Steve Farmer, who’s from Coweta, and 82 miles from Tech coach Matt Wells’ hometown of Sallisaw.Roland committed to North Texas out of high school, but wound up going the junior-college route.The NJCAA announced on Thursday its recommendation that the majority of fall sports competition move to the spring of 2021 as a precaution against the COVID-19 outbreak. Roland told Red Raider Sports he plans to graduate from Hutchinson in December and then transfer to Tech.

HutchCC's Defensive Tackel DeMeco Roland commits to Texas Tech

As reported last Thursday, the NJCAA is considering moving the majority of fall sports to the spring of 2021.

KWCH, KAKE and KSN television all caught up with Hutchinson Community College Athletic Director Josh Gooch for comments on Friday.

“We are going to be flexible,” says Athletic Director Josh Gooch. “We hope our fan base will be flexible. We have a good following in Blue Dragon Nation.”

At 10-2 last year the Blue Dragons were ready to grace the gridiron in just over a month.

The National Junior College Athletic Association used Twitter on Thursday to recommend a majority of fall sports move to the spring.

“I was a little caught off guard that that tweet would come,” says Gooch.

But Gooch says those plans were almost immediately changed when the NJCAA announced Thursday that a majority of fall sports should be moved to spring, which affects all but Cross Country at Hutchinson Community College. It could mean fewer games for the Blue Dragon football team.

“As they meet on Monday they are going to finalize the exact amount of games. I am sure there will be a reduction. What that reduction is will be decided,” says Gooch.

It is the world we now live in, Gooch says. adding nothing is normal but he is hoping no matter when they play Hutch teams will have a strong, established sports schedule.

“Our student-athletes, they come here with the expectations to be able to compete in the fall,” says Gooch. “They will still have the same opportunities just going to move a semester.”

He says it may not be ideal, but it’s necessary to keep the Blue Dragons blazing forward.

“Just make the most of each opportunity,” Gooch says. “I think that is what the NJCAA is trying to provide, a chance to have championship competition, and the best way to move that was to move this to the spring.”

The NJCAA is expected to make a final decision on Monday.

As reported last Thursday, the NJCAA is considering moving the majority of fall sports to the spring of 2021.KWCH, KAKE and KSN television all caught up with Hutchinson Community College Athletic Director Josh Gooch for comments on Friday.“We are going to be flexible,” says Athletic Director Josh Gooch. “We hope our fan base will be flexible. We have a good following in Blue Dragon Nation.”At 10-2 last year the Blue Dragons were ready to grace the gridiron in just over a month.The National Junior College Athletic Association used Twitter on Thursday to recommend a majority of fall sports move to the spring.“I was a little caught off guard that that tweet would come,” says Gooch.But Gooch says those plans were almost immediately changed when the NJCAA announced Thursday that a majority of fall sports should be moved to spring, which affects all but Cross Country at Hutchinson Community College. It could mean fewer games for the Blue Dragon football team.“As they meet on Monday they are going to finalize the exact amount of games. I am sure there will be a reduction. What that reduction is will be decided,” says Gooch.It is the world we now live in, Gooch says. adding nothing is normal but he is hoping no matter when they play Hutch teams will have a strong, established sports schedule.“Our student-athletes, they come here with the expectations to be able to compete in the fall,” says Gooch. “They will still have the same opportunities just going to move a semester.”He says it may not be ideal, but it’s necessary to keep the Blue Dragons blazing forward.“Just make the most of each opportunity,” Gooch says. “I think that is what the NJCAA is trying to provide, a chance to have championship competition, and the best way to move that was to move this to the spring.”The NJCAA is expected to make a final decision on Monday.

‘We are going to be flexible’: NJCAA recommending colleges move fall sports to spring

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - With the announcement Saturday that&nbsp;Cam Gallagher&nbsp;had tested positive for COVID-19, the Royals’ catching depth is now perilously thin, with Opening Day less than two weeks away.

Gallagher, who homered in Friday night’s intrasquad game, was placed on the 10-day injured list. Catchers Salvador Perez (COVID-19) and Meibrys Viloria (undisclosed) were placed on the 10-day IL last weekend.

The Royals are running out of bodies to put behind the dish. They added non-roster catchers Oscar Hernández, Allan de San Miguel and Freddy Fermin in the past week to have enough backstops to get through Summer Camp.

It’s getting to the point that manager Mike Matheny, a former big league catcher, was jokingly asked if the Royals would employ a player/manager to start the season.

“Who do you got in mind?” Matheny said, laughing. “I think I could catch one out of one inning and then my knees would give out.”

But the situation is concerning for the Royals, who may have to turn to prospects MJ Melendez (Kansas City’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/prospects/royals/mj-melendez-669004" target="_blank">No. 13 prospect</a>, per MLB Pipeline) or Nick Dini, who has some big league experience, to start the season.

Asked if the Royals were on the hunt for more catching depth, Matheny said, "I think it will give opportunities to guys who are here already. We might have an opportunity to get some of these [injured list] guys through and go from there -- I know there’s no guarantee a guy [can’t get COVID-19 again].

“But we just have to have other guys make the most of their opportunity. And we have to keep the guys who are asymptomatic and who are quarantined somewhat sharp and hope to get them back out here and get them going. There’s no perfect science to getting guys back -- you need two negative tests and sometimes that can go quickly. We’re hopeful we’ll get [our catchers] back.”

Gallagher played his best scrimmage of camp on Friday night, smashing a long home run off Mike Montgomery while also playing flawlessly behind the plate.

“To say this caught me by surprise would be an understatement,” Gallagher said in a statement. “I played in [Friday] night’s intrasquad game and felt great, then received the news this morning that my most recent test had come back positive. I am asymptomatic and will continue to work as hard as I can to stay ready while I quarantine. The first couple of weeks of workouts have just made me that much more excited about our ballclub, and I can’t wait to rejoin them and compete as soon as I’m allowed.”

Picking on Dozier Royals right fielder Hunter Dozier got a scare earlier this week when he was hit on the right wrist by a pitch from right-hander Brady Singer. Dozier was hit again Saturday by right-hander Jesse Hahn. Dozier didn’t take his base; instead, he lined a sharp double to left field on the next pitch.

In his next at-bat, Dozier was brushed off the plate by a fastball from Hahn. And on the next pitch, Dozier again ripped a line drive for a hit.

“It was an offspeed pitch that hit him this time,” Matheny said, “but he stayed in there and got a good swing in. He hit the ball hard twice. He looks good.”

Gordon goes deep Alex Gordon belted a two-run homer to right-center in his first at-bat Saturday.

“Yeah, the crowd went wild,” Matheny joked, though he was also referring to the cheers from Gordon’s teammates.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - With the announcement Saturday that&nbsp;Cam Gallagher&nbsp;had tested positive for COVID-19, the Royals’ catching depth is now perilously thin, with Opening Day less than two weeks away.Gallagher, who homered in Friday night’s intrasquad game, was placed on the 10-day injured list. Catchers Salvador Perez (COVID-19) and Meibrys Viloria (undisclosed) were placed on the 10-day IL last weekend.The Royals are running out of bodies to put behind the dish. They added non-roster catchers Oscar Hernández, Allan de San Miguel and Freddy Fermin in the past week to have enough backstops to get through Summer Camp.It’s getting to the point that manager Mike Matheny, a former big league catcher, was jokingly asked if the Royals would employ a player/manager to start the season.“Who do you got in mind?” Matheny said, laughing. “I think I could catch one out of one inning and then my knees would give out.”But the situation is concerning for the Royals, who may have to turn to prospects MJ Melendez (Kansas City’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/prospects/royals/mj-melendez-669004" target="_blank">No. 13 prospect</a>, per MLB Pipeline) or Nick Dini, who has some big league experience, to start the season.Asked if the Royals were on the hunt for more catching depth, Matheny said, "I think it will give opportunities to guys who are here already. We might have an opportunity to get some of these [injured list] guys through and go from there -- I know there’s no guarantee a guy [can’t get COVID-19 again].“But we just have to have other guys make the most of their opportunity. And we have to keep the guys who are asymptomatic and who are quarantined somewhat sharp and hope to get them back out here and get them going. There’s no perfect science to getting guys back -- you need two negative tests and sometimes that can go quickly. We’re hopeful we’ll get [our catchers] back.”Gallagher played his best scrimmage of camp on Friday night, smashing a long home run off Mike Montgomery while also playing flawlessly behind the plate.“To say this caught me by surprise would be an understatement,” Gallagher said in a statement. “I played in [Friday] night’s intrasquad game and felt great, then received the news this morning that my most recent test had come back positive. I am asymptomatic and will continue to work as hard as I can to stay ready while I quarantine. The first couple of weeks of workouts have just made me that much more excited about our ballclub, and I can’t wait to rejoin them and compete as soon as I’m allowed.”Picking on Dozier Royals right fielder Hunter Dozier got a scare earlier this week when he was hit on the right wrist by a pitch from right-hander Brady Singer. Dozier was hit again Saturday by right-hander Jesse Hahn. Dozier didn’t take his base; instead, he lined a sharp double to left field on the next pitch.In his next at-bat, Dozier was brushed off the plate by a fastball from Hahn. And on the next pitch, Dozier again ripped a line drive for a hit.“It was an offspeed pitch that hit him this time,” Matheny said, “but he stayed in there and got a good swing in. He hit the ball hard twice. He looks good.”Gordon goes deep Alex Gordon belted a two-run homer to right-center in his first at-bat Saturday.“Yeah, the crowd went wild,” Matheny joked, though he was also referring to the cheers from Gordon’s teammates.

KC's Gallagher tests positive but asymptomatic

WICHITA, Kan. - The Buhler Senior Nationals are 4-0 in the Best of the Great Plains Tournament after a mid-morning 5-3 win over 316 Elite Batsy at Wichita States’s Eck Stadium.

Buhler sits in first place in the Premier Pool. Next action looks to be early Sunday When pool play advances into bracket play.

WICHITA, Kan. - The Buhler Senior Nationals are 4-0 in the Best of the Great Plains Tournament after a mid-morning 5-3 win over 316 Elite Batsy at Wichita States’s Eck Stadium.Buhler sits in first place in the Premier Pool. Next action looks to be early Sunday When pool play advances into bracket play.

Buhler Senior Nationals continue to shine in Wichita Tourney

HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs (15-4)&nbsp; host the Great Bend Bat Cats Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park at 7 pm. &nbsp;This is the second game of a four game set vs Great Bend for this season. Hutch edged the Bat Cats 8-6 last night in Great Bend.

Catch all the action on Hutchpost.com as the Eagle Sports team will provide live streaming video tonight. &nbsp;Sports Director Glen Grunwald and KWBW Radio Program Director Rob Dreher will have the call and Sarah Peterson will provide video coverage.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs (15-4)&nbsp; host the Great Bend Bat Cats Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park at 7 pm. &nbsp;This is the second game of a four game set vs Great Bend for this season. Hutch edged the Bat Cats 8-6 last night in Great Bend.Catch all the action on Hutchpost.com as the Eagle Sports team will provide live streaming video tonight. &nbsp;Sports Director Glen Grunwald and KWBW Radio Program Director Rob Dreher will have the call and Sarah Peterson will provide video coverage.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/obs-qWhzbWE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥 LIVE VIDEO STREAM: Hutchinson Monarchs vs Great Bend Bat Cats Saturday night at 7pm

UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten Conference won't play nonconference games in football and a handful of other sports this fall because of the coronavirus pandemic. The league also warned that it was "prepared not to play" at all to keep its athletes safe. The decision affects more than 40 games, including some marquee matchups like Notre Dame against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field. The announcement came a day after the Ivy League called off all fall sports. Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith says he is "very concerned" about the season.

NHL, players approve plan to resume season, extend CBA

UNDATED (AP) — Hockey became the latest sport to finalize a return during a global pandemic after NHL owners and players approved an agreement Friday to resume the season — and with it an assurance of labor peace through September 2026.

Games are scheduled to begin Aug. 1 in Toronto and Edmonton, Alberta, with coronavirus cases in the U.S. pushing the league into Canada for the summer and fall until the Stanley Cup is awarded in late September or early October. 

Training camps open across North America on Monday, which is also the deadline for players to opt out of participating with no penalty.

The return-to-play plan, tentatively approved by the NHL and NHL Players' Association on Monday, was ratified by the league's board of governors and with majority approval from players following a three-day voting period, ending Friday. Along with it, the two sides also formally approved a four-year extension of the collective bargaining agreement.

The NHL is back with an expanded 24-team playoff format, but things will be much different from the norm: There will be no fans. There will be between five and six games a day at the start — up to three at each site, which will be heavily cordoned off from the public. 

UNDATED (AP) — San Francisco Giants star catcher Buster Posey is the latest big-name player to skip this season because of concerns over the coronavirus. Posey says his family finalized the adoption of identical twin girls this week. The babies were born prematurely and Posey said after consultations with his wife and doctor he decided to opt out of the season.

The babies born last Friday were about eight weeks premature. They are healthy but will need to spend time in neonatal intensive care and will have weakened immune systems for the next few months.

Posey joins other top players such as Dodgers pitcher David Price, Washington first baseman Ryan Zimmerman and Colorado's Ian Desmond in opting out this season. 

— All-Star slugger Joey Gallo has worked out with the Texas Rangers for the first time during their summer camp. Gallo was cleared and at workouts Friday after missing the first week following positive tests for coronavirus. The 26-year-old outfielder said he never felt any symptoms but had two positive tests that sandwiched a negative result during intake testing. His return to the field comes two weeks before the scheduled start of the season against Colorado. He had 22 homers in 70 games and made his first All-Star appearance last year before wrist surgery ended his season.

— The Toronto Blue Jays are shifting Vladimir Guerrero Jr. across the diamond, moving the slugger to first base from third. Blue Jays Manager Charlie Montoyo said Guerrero feels comfortable at first and the team has Travis Shaw ready to play third. Montoyo also said Guerrero will see time as a designated hitter. He didn't rule out that he will play some third in the future. 

— The Red Sox and Blue Jays will play two exhibition games at Fenway Park before baseball's delayed regular-season opener. Toronto will visit Boston on July 21 and 22 before heading down to Tampa Bay for its opener. The Red Sox are scheduled to open at home against the Baltimore Orioles on July 24.

— Former Red Sox catcher Mike Ryan had died. Ryan was a catcher on the 1967 "Impossible Dream" team. In all, he spent 35 years in professional baseball. Ryan also played for the Phillies and Pirates and was a bullpen coach on Philadelphia's 1980 World Series championship team. The Red Sox said Ryan died in his sleep on Tuesday in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. He was 78. 

Elimination of nonconference games could have ripple effect

UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten and Pac-12 became the first leagues to shift to an all-conference fall schedule as the college sports world faces difficult decisions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More Power Five conferences could follow, causing a ripple effect on small-conference schools across the country. If more big conferences ditch nonconference games, smaller schools who rely on "buy games" to help fund their athletic departments will take huge financial hits at a time when they're already facing ugly bottom lines.

Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner John Swofford says the league expects to make its decision on fall sports in late July. 

The league put out Swofford's statement Friday afternoon, saying the league has prepared "numerous scenarios" for fall competition over the last few months. The decision would come from the league's board of directors.

Earlier this week, the ACC delayed the start of fall competition until at least Sept. 1. That move impacts non-revenue programs like soccer, volleyball, field hockey and cross country, but not football for now. The first football game involving an ACC team is North Carolina State's trip to Louisville on Sept. 2.

In other developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic:

— The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, a conference of historically black colleges, is suspending all fall sports out of concern over the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference says several of its schools are in states experiencing dramatic increases in new COVID-19 cases. It says the recent rise in cases has led to a pause in phased reopening plans in many of those states, resulting in uncertainty as to whether students will return to campus this fall at several CIAA institutions. 

— The University of Virginia says two football players have tested positive for COVID-19 and will self-isolate for at least 10 days. The school says other members of the program found to have come into close contact with them will also go into quarantine. The school tested 110 players when they began returning to campus for voluntary workouts on July 5. The players with positive test results will self-isolate for 10 days, or until they have been fever-free for at least three days, whichever is longer. 

— The University of Michigan says two athletes tested positive during a second round of COVID-19 testing, bringing the total to four out of the 375 who have been tested. The school says none of the 139 staff members have tested positive.

— The Jacksonville Jaguars are planning to play home games in front of a significantly reduced capacity this fall. Fans in attendance will be required to wear face coverings. The team released details in an email to season-ticket holders Friday. Jacksonville expects about 25% capacity at TIAA Bank Field in 2020 "in compliance with state and local authorities and following CDC social distancing guidelines." The stadium's capacity is listed at over 67,000. 

— Japan's professional baseball league opened the delayed season three weeks ago. Now fans are back, too. After playing in empty stadiums to get started, Japan began allowing up to 5,000 fans into the games on Friday, or 50% of the stadium capacity — whichever is smaller. Officials hope to allow stadiums to be filled to 50% capacity beginning on Aug. 1.

NBA teams at Disney had tough travel-party decisions to make

UNDATED (AP) — The 22 teams participating in the NBA restart were all at the Disney campus together for the first time Friday.

None of them, however, made it to the Orlando, Florida area with their usual travel party.

Leaving families behind for several weeks — or maybe even three months, depending on how deep a team goes in the playoffs — during a pandemic isn't the only hardship that teams are dealing with during this restart. Space limitations within the quasi-bubble at Disney also meant that teams had to cut their official traveling parties down to 37 personnel, including players, so many people who usually travel with a club aren't on this trip.

It's expected that as the bubble population shrinks after six teams are eliminated from playoff contention and then eight more are ousted in the first postseason round, teams will be allowed to bring in more staff.

Morikawa builds big lead at Muirfield Village before storms

DUBLIN, Ohio (AP) —Collin Morikawa takes a three-shot lead into the weekend at the Workday Charity Open. 

He made nine birdies Friday for a 66 and leads over Justin Thomas and Kevin Streelman. Storms twice halted play at Muirfield Village, so the second round wasn't completed. That means Brooks Koepka has to wait to see if his big finish allowed him to make the cut. Koepka birdied five of his last seven holes for a 69 and was one-shot outside the cut. Nearly three dozen players were to return Saturday morning to complete their rounds.

British Olympic gymnasts decry 'abusive behavior'

LONDON (AP) — British Olympians Becky and Ellie Downie say they've suffered from abusive behavior in gymnastics training for many years, adding their voices to a growing number of gymnasts coming forward with similar complaints.

<h2>Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press</h2>UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten Conference won't play nonconference games in football and a handful of other sports this fall because of the coronavirus pandemic. The league also warned that it was "prepared not to play" at all to keep its athletes safe. The decision affects more than 40 games, including some marquee matchups like Notre Dame against Wisconsin at Lambeau Field. The announcement came a day after the Ivy League called off all fall sports. Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith says he is "very concerned" about the season.<h2>Update on the latest sports</h2>VIRUS OUTBREAK-NHLNHL, players approve plan to resume season, extend CBAUNDATED (AP) — Hockey became the latest sport to finalize a return during a global pandemic after NHL owners and players approved an agreement Friday to resume the season — and with it an assurance of labor peace through September 2026.Games are scheduled to begin Aug. 1 in Toronto and Edmonton, Alberta, with coronavirus cases in the U.S. pushing the league into Canada for the summer and fall until the Stanley Cup is awarded in late September or early October. Training camps open across North America on Monday, which is also the deadline for players to opt out of participating with no penalty.The return-to-play plan, tentatively approved by the NHL and NHL Players' Association on Monday, was ratified by the league's board of governors and with majority approval from players following a three-day voting period, ending Friday. Along with it, the two sides also formally approved a four-year extension of the collective bargaining agreement.The NHL is back with an expanded 24-team playoff format, but things will be much different from the norm: There will be no fans. There will be between five and six games a day at the start — up to three at each site, which will be heavily cordoned off from the public. MLB-NEWSPosey opts to skip the seasonUNDATED (AP) — San Francisco Giants star catcher Buster Posey is the latest big-name player to skip this season because of concerns over the coronavirus. Posey says his family finalized the adoption of identical twin girls this week. The babies were born prematurely and Posey said after consultations with his wife and doctor he decided to opt out of the season.The babies born last Friday were about eight weeks premature. They are healthy but will need to spend time in neonatal intensive care and will have weakened immune systems for the next few months.Posey joins other top players such as Dodgers pitcher David Price, Washington first baseman Ryan Zimmerman and Colorado's Ian Desmond in opting out this season. In other MLB news:— All-Star slugger Joey Gallo has worked out with the Texas Rangers for the first time during their summer camp. Gallo was cleared and at workouts Friday after missing the first week following positive tests for coronavirus. The 26-year-old outfielder said he never felt any symptoms but had two positive tests that sandwiched a negative result during intake testing. His return to the field comes two weeks before the scheduled start of the season against Colorado. He had 22 homers in 70 games and made his first All-Star appearance last year before wrist surgery ended his season.— The Toronto Blue Jays are shifting Vladimir Guerrero Jr. across the diamond, moving the slugger to first base from third. Blue Jays Manager Charlie Montoyo said Guerrero feels comfortable at first and the team has Travis Shaw ready to play third. Montoyo also said Guerrero will see time as a designated hitter. He didn't rule out that he will play some third in the future. — The Red Sox and Blue Jays will play two exhibition games at Fenway Park before baseball's delayed regular-season opener. Toronto will visit Boston on July 21 and 22 before heading down to Tampa Bay for its opener. The Red Sox are scheduled to open at home against the Baltimore Orioles on July 24.— Former Red Sox catcher Mike Ryan had died. Ryan was a catcher on the 1967 "Impossible Dream" team. In all, he spent 35 years in professional baseball. Ryan also played for the Phillies and Pirates and was a bullpen coach on Philadelphia's 1980 World Series championship team. The Red Sox said Ryan died in his sleep on Tuesday in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. He was 78. VIRUS OUTBREAK-SPORTSElimination of nonconference games could have ripple effectUNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten and Pac-12 became the first leagues to shift to an all-conference fall schedule as the college sports world faces difficult decisions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More Power Five conferences could follow, causing a ripple effect on small-conference schools across the country. If more big conferences ditch nonconference games, smaller schools who rely on "buy games" to help fund their athletic departments will take huge financial hits at a time when they're already facing ugly bottom lines.Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner John Swofford says the league expects to make its decision on fall sports in late July. The league put out Swofford's statement Friday afternoon, saying the league has prepared "numerous scenarios" for fall competition over the last few months. The decision would come from the league's board of directors.Earlier this week, the ACC delayed the start of fall competition until at least Sept. 1. That move impacts non-revenue programs like soccer, volleyball, field hockey and cross country, but not football for now. The first football game involving an ACC team is North Carolina State's trip to Louisville on Sept. 2.In other developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic:— The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, a conference of historically black colleges, is suspending all fall sports out of concern over the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference says several of its schools are in states experiencing dramatic increases in new COVID-19 cases. It says the recent rise in cases has led to a pause in phased reopening plans in many of those states, resulting in uncertainty as to whether students will return to campus this fall at several CIAA institutions. — The University of Virginia says two football players have tested positive for COVID-19 and will self-isolate for at least 10 days. The school says other members of the program found to have come into close contact with them will also go into quarantine. The school tested 110 players when they began returning to campus for voluntary workouts on July 5. The players with positive test results will self-isolate for 10 days, or until they have been fever-free for at least three days, whichever is longer. — The University of Michigan says two athletes tested positive during a second round of COVID-19 testing, bringing the total to four out of the 375 who have been tested. The school says none of the 139 staff members have tested positive.— The Jacksonville Jaguars are planning to play home games in front of a significantly reduced capacity this fall. Fans in attendance will be required to wear face coverings. The team released details in an email to season-ticket holders Friday. Jacksonville expects about 25% capacity at TIAA Bank Field in 2020 "in compliance with state and local authorities and following CDC social distancing guidelines." The stadium's capacity is listed at over 67,000. — Japan's professional baseball league opened the delayed season three weeks ago. Now fans are back, too. After playing in empty stadiums to get started, Japan began allowing up to 5,000 fans into the games on Friday, or 50% of the stadium capacity — whichever is smaller. Officials hope to allow stadiums to be filled to 50% capacity beginning on Aug. 1.NBA RESTART-TRAVEL PARTIESNBA teams at Disney had tough travel-party decisions to makeUNDATED (AP) — The 22 teams participating in the NBA restart were all at the Disney campus together for the first time Friday.None of them, however, made it to the Orlando, Florida area with their usual travel party.Leaving families behind for several weeks — or maybe even three months, depending on how deep a team goes in the playoffs — during a pandemic isn't the only hardship that teams are dealing with during this restart. Space limitations within the quasi-bubble at Disney also meant that teams had to cut their official traveling parties down to 37 personnel, including players, so many people who usually travel with a club aren't on this trip.It's expected that as the bubble population shrinks after six teams are eliminated from playoff contention and then eight more are ousted in the first postseason round, teams will be allowed to bring in more staff.PGA-WORKDAY OPENMorikawa builds big lead at Muirfield Village before stormsDUBLIN, Ohio (AP) —Collin Morikawa takes a three-shot lead into the weekend at the Workday Charity Open. He made nine birdies Friday for a 66 and leads over Justin Thomas and Kevin Streelman. Storms twice halted play at Muirfield Village, so the second round wasn't completed. That means Brooks Koepka has to wait to see if his big finish allowed him to make the cut. Koepka birdied five of his last seven holes for a 69 and was one-shot outside the cut. Nearly three dozen players were to return Saturday morning to complete their rounds.GYMMNASTICS-BRITAIN-ABUSE COMPLAINTSBritish Olympic gymnasts decry 'abusive behavior'LONDON (AP) — British Olympians Becky and Ellie Downie say they've suffered from abusive behavior in gymnastics training for many years, adding their voices to a growing number of gymnasts coming forward with similar complaints.The sisters said coaches pressured them to lose weight and overtrain, which took mental and physical tolls. They were inspired to tell their story after former teammates did the same.In a letter posted Thursday on their respective Twitter accounts, they said: "Speaking out is something we've both felt we really needed to do for a long time now, but in truth, we've been afraid to do so."Both women represented Britain in the 2016 Olympic Games but they say their success has come at a high price.Twenty-eight-year-old Becky said she was called "mentally weak" for questioning her training regimen in 2018. She then injured her ankle in "a direct consequence of the unsafe training." Her 20-year-old sister said a nutritionist required her to send daily pictures of herself wearing just underwear to prove she wasn't gaining weight. She was 14 years old at that time.British Gymnastics CEO Jane Allen this week announced an independent review of claims of mistreatment. She said the British Gymnastics Integrity Unit already exists to investigate allegations and that there are welfare officers around the country.BULL RIDING-CROWDSProfessional bull riding set to welcome fans back into arenaSIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — As bull riders attempted to hang on to their rides for eight seconds Friday night, they were encouraged by something they hadn't heard in months — the cheers of a crowd.A little more than a thousand fans were on hand in the 9,000-seat arena to watch one of the first indoor professional sporting events since the coronavirus pandemic began. The Professional Bull Riders event ended a month-long competition that until Friday has played out before silent stands. It's a cautious step toward giving sports fans who have been cooped up for months a chance to leave their homes and watch a bull attempt to throw a man from its back as the rider tries to hold on.

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