JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Junction City Brigade rode a relentless offensive attack and a four-run first inning to a 14-10 victory over the Hutchinson Monarchs on Friday night at Rathert Stadium.

The Brigade struck early, posting six runs in the first two innings to take command. Kyler Horsman led the charge, driving in four runs, including a towering three-run homer to center in the fifth that gave Junction City a 12-10 lead.

“We came out swinging, and that early momentum really set the tone,” Horsman said. “Hutchinson pushed back hard, but we answered every time.”

The Monarchs (11-3) responded with a six-run fourth inning, capped by a bases-clearing double from Keegan Demmer and a two-run single by Omare Cross to jump ahead 9-6. They added another run in the fifth on a fielder’s choice to lead 10-8, but couldn’t hold the advantage.

In the bottom half of the fifth, Horsman launched a game-changing three-run homer that shifted the momentum back to the Brigade (insert record if known). Ian Luce added a solo shot in the seventh to pad the lead, and Sawyer Tolk’s RBI double in the eighth sealed the final score at 14-10.

Hutchinson’s biggest highlight came in the second inning when Blake Bradford crushed a three-run homer to center to bring the Monarchs within one. Bradford finished with three RBIs.

The teams combined for 24 runs and 26 hits in a slugfest marked by lead changes and defensive miscues, including a costly error by Monarchs outfielder Omare Cross in the second that allowed two runs to score.

Junction City will look to carry the momentum into their next matchup, while Hutchinson (11-3) aims to tighten its defense and regroup after a hard-fought loss. Hutchinson travels to Rose Hill Saturday night to take on the Wichita Wildcats.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750511558548.png" alt="Final - Monarchs lost to the Brigade in Junction City Friday night in a slug-fest." />
                        <figcaption>Final - Monarchs lost to the Brigade in Junction City Friday night in a slug-fest.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Junction City Brigade rode a relentless offensive attack and a four-run first inning to a 14-10 victory over the Hutchinson Monarchs on Friday night at Rathert Stadium.</p><p>The Brigade struck early, posting six runs in the first two innings to take command. Kyler Horsman led the charge, driving in four runs, including a towering three-run homer to center in the fifth that gave Junction City a 12-10 lead.</p><p>“We came out swinging, and that early momentum really set the tone,” Horsman said. “Hutchinson pushed back hard, but we answered every time.”</p><p>The Monarchs (11-3) responded with a six-run fourth inning, capped by a bases-clearing double from Keegan Demmer and a two-run single by Omare Cross to jump ahead 9-6. They added another run in the fifth on a fielder’s choice to lead 10-8, but couldn’t hold the advantage.</p><p>In the bottom half of the fifth, Horsman launched a game-changing three-run homer that shifted the momentum back to the Brigade (insert record if known). Ian Luce added a solo shot in the seventh to pad the lead, and Sawyer Tolk’s RBI double in the eighth sealed the final score at 14-10.</p><p>Hutchinson’s biggest highlight came in the second inning when Blake Bradford crushed a three-run homer to center to bring the Monarchs within one. Bradford finished with three RBIs.</p><p>The teams combined for 24 runs and 26 hits in a slugfest marked by lead changes and defensive miscues, including a costly error by Monarchs outfielder Omare Cross in the second that allowed two runs to score.</p><p>Junction City will look to carry the momentum into their next matchup, while Hutchinson (11-3) aims to tighten its defense and regroup after a hard-fought loss. Hutchinson travels to Rose Hill Saturday night to take on the Wichita Wildcats.</p>

⚾ Junction City Brigade out-slugs Hutchinson Monarchs in Friday night shootout

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Salvador Perez singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning for the Kansas City Royals, who got home runs from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to beat the San Diego Padres 6-5 on Friday night for their fourth straight win.

The Royals started this trip with a three-game sweep at Texas. The Padres have lost eight of 11.

San Diego’s Manny Machado hit his 12th homer leading off the ninth off Carlos Estévez, who then retired the side for his big league-leading 22nd save.

Padres manager Mike Shildt served his one-game suspension handed down by MLB after a brouhaha in Los Angeles on Thursday night after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit on the right wrist by a pitch in San Diego’s 5-3 win, which prevented a four-game sweep. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also was suspended for one game. Padres closer Robert Suarez was suspended for three games for hitting Shohei Ohtani with a pitch in the ninth inning. He is appealing.

Tatis started Friday night after imaging showed no damage.

Padres reliever Jason Adam (5-3) opened the eighth by allowing a single and a walk before the 35-year-old Perez singled to left to bring in Maikel Garcia with the go-ahead run. Drew Waters added an RBI single with two outs.

Witt homered to left with one out in the first, his 11th, off Nick Pivetta. Pivetta opened the fifth with consecutive walks to Freddy Fermin and Nick Loftin and then allowed India’s shot to left with one out for a 4-0 lead. It was his fourth.

The Padres chased starter Matt Lorenzen in the sixth as they closed to 4-2. Gavin Sheets tied it with a two-out, two-run single in the seventh off Lucas Erceg (2-2).

Jake Cronenworth worked a full count against Estévez before popping up to end it.

Xander Bogaerts, who has struggled this year, tied the Padres' franchise record by hitting safely in eight straight at-bats before popping up in the ninth.

Royals LHP Noah Cameron (2-2, 1.91 ERA) and Padres RHP Dylan Cease (2-6, 4.69) are scheduled to start Saturday night.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750483111228.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SAN DIEGO (AP) — Salvador Perez singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning for the Kansas City Royals, who got home runs from Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. to beat the San Diego Padres 6-5 on Friday night for their fourth straight win.</p><p>The Royals started this trip with a three-game sweep at Texas. The Padres have lost eight of 11.</p><p>San Diego’s Manny Machado hit his 12th homer leading off the ninth off Carlos Estévez, who then retired the side for his big league-leading 22nd save.</p><p>Padres manager Mike Shildt served his one-game suspension handed down by MLB after a brouhaha in Los Angeles on Thursday night after Fernando Tatis Jr. was hit on the right wrist by a pitch in San Diego’s 5-3 win, which prevented a four-game sweep. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also was suspended for one game. Padres closer Robert Suarez was suspended for three games for hitting Shohei Ohtani with a pitch in the ninth inning. He is appealing.</p><p>Tatis started Friday night after imaging showed no damage.</p><p>Padres reliever Jason Adam (5-3) opened the eighth by allowing a single and a walk before the 35-year-old Perez singled to left to bring in Maikel Garcia with the go-ahead run. Drew Waters added an RBI single with two outs.</p><p>Witt homered to left with one out in the first, his 11th, off Nick Pivetta. Pivetta opened the fifth with consecutive walks to Freddy Fermin and Nick Loftin and then allowed India’s shot to left with one out for a 4-0 lead. It was his fourth.</p><p>The Padres chased starter Matt Lorenzen in the sixth as they closed to 4-2. Gavin Sheets tied it with a two-out, two-run single in the seventh off Lucas Erceg (2-2).</p><h2>Key moment</h2><p>Jake Cronenworth worked a full count against Estévez before popping up to end it.</p><h2>Key stat</h2><p>Xander Bogaerts, who has struggled this year, tied the Padres' franchise record by hitting safely in eight straight at-bats before popping up in the ninth.</p><h2>Up next</h2><p>Royals LHP Noah Cameron (2-2, 1.91 ERA) and Padres RHP Dylan Cease (2-6, 4.69) are scheduled to start Saturday night.</p><p>___</p>

⚾ Perez hits go-ahead single as the Royals beat the Padres

The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played Saturday evening at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City at 7 p.m. You can <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/0fce9ba7-ff80-48a6-b97e-2489a278824d">hear the game on our Eagle Media</a> stations across the state.

The West team held camp throughout the week at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson before departing for Dodge City on Thursday.&nbsp;

Below are thoughts from area student-athletes and coaches that will be partaking in the all-star football game Saturday.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750344094178.jpeg" alt="Helmets from the offensive players of the Kansas Shrine Bowl West team. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Helmets from the offensive players of the Kansas Shrine Bowl West team. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl will be played Saturday evening at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City at 7 p.m. You can <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/0fce9ba7-ff80-48a6-b97e-2489a278824d">hear the game on our Eagle Media</a> stations across the state.</p><p>The West team held camp throughout the week at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson before departing for Dodge City on Thursday.&nbsp;</p><p>Below are thoughts from area student-athletes and coaches that will be partaking in the all-star football game Saturday.</p><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Terrell King (Hutchinson)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=pkbpw-18e181a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Mike Vernon (Hutchinson)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vfmzn-18e181d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Nash Wray (Haven)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6ec2c-18e1823-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Bodey Redenbaugh (Buhler)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=59qhf-18e1824-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Catch Delaney (McPherson)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=znmgk-18e182a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Shrine Bowl: Karter Gonzalez (Hesston)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jinkh-18e1827-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426278069.jpeg" alt="Mike Vernon, Hutchinson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Mike Vernon, Hutchinson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426303381.jpeg" alt="Tyson Bauerle, Hesston High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Tyson Bauerle, Hesston High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426346292.jpeg" alt="Karter Gonzalez, Hesston High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Karter Gonzalez, Hesston High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426376916.jpeg" alt="Catch Delaney, McPherson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Catch Delaney, McPherson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426409484.jpeg" alt="Terrell King, Hutchinson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Terrell King, Hutchinson High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426458188.jpeg" alt="Bodey Redenbaugh, Buhler High School (closest lineman) and Connor Herman, Halstead High School (56 on helmet) (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Bodey Redenbaugh, Buhler High School (closest lineman) and Connor Herman, Halstead High School (56 on helmet) (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426573867.jpeg" alt="Henry Hecox, Moundridge High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>Henry Hecox, Moundridge High School (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750426636771.jpeg" alt="West team head coach Dominick Dingle (Wichita Heights) addresses the team following a practice at Gowans Stadium. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
                        <figcaption>West team head coach Dominick Dingle (Wichita Heights) addresses the team following a practice at Gowans Stadium. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
                    </figure>

🎧📷 Area student-athletes prepare in Hutch for Shrine Bowl Saturday

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
                        <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Friday, June 20, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=48bv2-18e17fb-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals sweep Rangers; ⚾ Wind Surge bounces back; 🏈 Shrine Bowl audio

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750252970088.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><p><em>Wichita Wind Surge</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p>NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 19, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/john-klein-804619"><strong>John Klein</strong></a>&nbsp;threw five innings and gave up just one hit in a Wichita Wind Surge 5-1 victory over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. After the Wind Surge opened the night with five runs in the first, the tandem of Klein and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ricky-castro-690462"><strong>Ricky Castro</strong></a>&nbsp;held the Travelers to just a run on four hits in the ballgame.</p>
<p>Wichita sent all nine men in their lineup to the plate and scored five runs in the top of the first.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kala-i-rosario-693850"><strong>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario</strong></a>&nbsp;cracked a two-RBI double off the left field wall, ahead of scoring on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/rubel-cespedes-686438"><strong>Rubel Cespedes</strong></a>&nbsp;single up the middle. A bases-loaded fielder&rsquo;s choice off the bat of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/tyler-dearden-676280"><strong>Tyler Dearden</strong></a>&nbsp;brought in the fourth run, followed by a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jose-salas-691191"><strong>Jose Salas</strong></a>&nbsp;line drive sacrifice fly to right field. Those five runs would be all the Wind Surge would need tonight.</p>
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1935848792978309310&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwichita-scores-five-runs-in-the-first-to-bounce-back-against-arkansas&amp;sessionId=b0d2e6b59f0ed0156cdb0f7906b0e085f327e1c4&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1935848792978309310"></iframe></div>
<p>Klein threw his best start of the season, striking out six batters over five innings of one-hit baseball. He earned the win and now stands at an even 4-4 on the season.</p>
<p>Hunter Fitz-Gerald brought in the lone Arkansas run on a single to center in the bottom of the eighth. Castro shut the door in the ninth as the long reliever, finishing with four innings of one-run baseball with three hits and two strikeouts in his first save of the season.</p>
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1935882866577096760&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwichita-scores-five-runs-in-the-first-to-bounce-back-against-arkansas&amp;sessionId=b0d2e6b59f0ed0156cdb0f7906b0e085f327e1c4&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1935882866577096760"></iframe></div>
<p><strong>POSTGAME NOTES</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>The Twins&rsquo; High-A affiliated Cedar Rapids Kernels clinched the Midwest League First-Half West Division Title earlier tonight on the road against the Beloit Sky Carp.</li>
<li>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario is credited with driving in three of the eight runs Wichita has scored in the two games.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge sent all nine hitters in their lineup to the plate in the first inning.</li>
<li>Wichita&rsquo;s first five men in the lineup all scored in the first frame.</li>
<li>Ricky Castro records his second career save.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Wind Surge continue the series with the Arkansas Travelers on June 20 at 7:05 PM at Dickey-Stephens Park. Wichita returns to Equity Bank Park for a series with the Springfield Cardinals on June 24. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</p></div>

⚾ Wind Surge bounce back against Travelers

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Top prospect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-caglianone-b777242d68ce78c9f85b19d1e4464317">Jac Caglianone went deep twice</a>&nbsp;for his first two homers in the majors, and the Kansas City Royals finished their first three-game sweep at Texas since 2003 with a 4-1 win over the Rangers on Thursday.

Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot, and Michael Wacha held the Rangers hitless until Wyatt Langford's one-out single in the sixth. The right-hander allowed two hits and a run with five strikeouts in six innings.

Wacha (4-6) was the third Kansas City starter to win for the first time in June as part of the sweep, with the Royals coming off a 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season. Kansas City already had clinched its first series win in Arlington in 11 years.

Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth for his AL-leading 21st save and second of the series.

Pasquantino's team-leading 11th homer opened the scoring in the first off right-hander Shawn Armstrong, the starter in a bullpen game for Texas. A run of 11 consecutive scoreless appearances ended for Armstrong (2-2).

Caglianone greeted Jacob Latz with his first big league homer leading off the second. The 22-year-old won a lefty-lefty matchup with a 387-foot drive into the Texas bullpen in right-center field.

The 6-foot-5 Caglianone mastered the lefty-lefty thing again to start the ninth, sending Robert Garcia's first pitch 439 feet over the Texas bullpen.

Latz went a career-high 5 2/3 innings, giving up three hits and a run.

Adolis García was the potential tying run when Wacha got him on a popout to finish his outing in the sixth.

Marcus Semien extended the longest hitting streak for the Rangers this season to 11 games with an RBI double in the sixth.

Both teams open road series Friday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.91 ERA) is set to go for Kansas City against San Diego. Texas RHP Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19) is set to face Pittsburgh a day after his 37th birthday.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750372128993.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone celebrates in the dugout after hitting his first career home run during a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, June 19, 2025, Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Albert Pena)" />
                        <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone celebrates in the dugout after hitting his first career home run during a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Thursday, June 19, 2025, Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Albert Pena)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Top prospect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-caglianone-b777242d68ce78c9f85b19d1e4464317">Jac Caglianone went deep twice</a>&nbsp;for his first two homers in the majors, and the Kansas City Royals finished their first three-game sweep at Texas since 2003 with a 4-1 win over the Rangers on Thursday.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">First Cags crush in the books. 💪 <a href="https://t.co/rP7FSzEdAV">pic.twitter.com/rP7FSzEdAV</a></p>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1935776308556108102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The rookie’s raking! <a href="https://t.co/vByHTxAQRq">pic.twitter.com/vByHTxAQRq</a></p>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1935803868287205867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jac Caglianone&#39;s first HR: 387 ft. to RCF<br>Jac Caglianone&#39;s second HR: 439 ft. to RCF<br><br>Here&#39;s how they sounded across the Royals Baseball Network. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoyalsRadioRewind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoyalsRadioRewind</a> <a href="https://t.co/8SHaFaf6Kd">pic.twitter.com/8SHaFaf6Kd</a></p>&mdash; Jake Eisenberg (@JakeEisenberg_) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeEisenberg_/status/1935812652229345323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot, and Michael Wacha held the Rangers hitless until Wyatt Langford's one-out single in the sixth. The right-hander allowed two hits and a run with five strikeouts in six innings.</p><p>Wacha (4-6) was the third Kansas City starter to win for the first time in June as part of the sweep, with the Royals coming off a 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season. Kansas City already had clinched its first series win in Arlington in 11 years.</p><p>Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth for his AL-leading 21st save and second of the series.</p><p>Pasquantino's team-leading 11th homer opened the scoring in the first off right-hander Shawn Armstrong, the starter in a bullpen game for Texas. A run of 11 consecutive scoreless appearances ended for Armstrong (2-2).</p><p>Caglianone greeted Jacob Latz with his first big league homer leading off the second. The 22-year-old won a lefty-lefty matchup with a 387-foot drive into the Texas bullpen in right-center field.</p><p>The 6-foot-5 Caglianone mastered the lefty-lefty thing again to start the ninth, sending Robert Garcia's first pitch 439 feet over the Texas bullpen.</p><p>Latz went a career-high 5 2/3 innings, giving up three hits and a run.</p><h2>Key moment</h2><p>Adolis García was the potential tying run when Wacha got him on a popout to finish his outing in the sixth.</p><h2>Key stat</h2><p>Marcus Semien extended the longest hitting streak for the Rangers this season to 11 games with an RBI double in the sixth.</p><h2>Up next</h2><p>Both teams open road series Friday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.91 ERA) is set to go for Kansas City against San Diego. Texas RHP Jacob deGrom (6-2, 2.19) is set to face Pittsburgh a day after his 37th birthday.</p>

⚾🎥 Jac Caglianone goes deep twice as Royals beat Rangers

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
                        <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Thursday, June 19, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=es82b-18e0282-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals win second straight; ⚾ Monarchs win pitchers duel; 2 of Rusty Hilst's state title calls

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Behind dominant relief pitching and just enough offense, the Hutchinson Monarchs edged the Junction City Brigade 2-1 in a tightly contested game Wednesday night at Hobart-Detter Field.

Lachlan Rosser started for the Monarchs but had trouble with control from the very start. He walked four, struck-out 2 giving up 1 run and 1 hit over the 1.1 innings pitched. He was able to work his way out of a bases loaded jam in the top of the first with nobody out. 

Cole Toureau was stellar in long relief for the Monarchs, entering in the second inning and tossing 5.2 brilliant frames. The right-hander gave up just one hit, walked three, and struck out eight to earn the win.

Aiden Sowers locked down the final six outs for the save, allowing only one hit and one walk while fanning two — including the final out of the game with the potential tying run on second base.

The Brigade struck first in the second inning when Ian Luce scored from third on a costly error by Monarchs third baseman Joey Senstock. That would be Junction City’s only run of the night.

Hutchinson answered in the fourth. Jake Knox singled and came around to score on a triple by Dylan Bell, tying the game at 1-1. The Monarchs took the lead for good in the sixth when Drew Bugner crossed the plate on an error by Brigade first baseman Brayden Harpole following a grounder by Blake Bradford.

Junction City starter Max Lialios was tough in the loss, allowing just four hits and two runs — only one earned — across eight innings. He struck out three and walked one.

The game was a brisk affair, lasting just 2 hours and 1 minute, as both pitching staffs were sharp throughout the night.

With the win, the Monarchs, now 11-2 continue to hold their ground in the league standings while showcasing the depth of their bullpen.

Hutchinson is off today, but will travel to Junction City on Friday before a road game in Wichita on Saturday versus the Wichita Wildcats College team. The next home game is Monday, June 23rd at Hobart-Detter versus the Wildcats again.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750327478813.png" alt="Final - Hutch wins pitchers' duel game with Junction City at Hobart-Detter Wednesday night." />
                        <figcaption>Final - Hutch wins pitchers' duel game with Junction City at Hobart-Detter Wednesday night.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Behind dominant relief pitching and just enough offense, the Hutchinson Monarchs edged the Junction City Brigade 2-1 in a tightly contested game Wednesday night at Hobart-Detter Field.</p><p>Lachlan Rosser started for the Monarchs but had trouble with control from the very start. He walked four, struck-out 2 giving up 1 run and 1 hit over the 1.1 innings pitched. He was able to work his way out of a bases loaded jam in the top of the first with nobody out. </p><p>Cole Toureau was stellar in long relief for the Monarchs, entering in the second inning and tossing 5.2 brilliant frames. The right-hander gave up just one hit, walked three, and struck out eight to earn the win.</p><p>Aiden Sowers locked down the final six outs for the save, allowing only one hit and one walk while fanning two — including the final out of the game with the potential tying run on second base.</p><p>The Brigade struck first in the second inning when Ian Luce scored from third on a costly error by Monarchs third baseman Joey Senstock. That would be Junction City’s only run of the night.</p><p>Hutchinson answered in the fourth. Jake Knox singled and came around to score on a triple by Dylan Bell, tying the game at 1-1. The Monarchs took the lead for good in the sixth when Drew Bugner crossed the plate on an error by Brigade first baseman Brayden Harpole following a grounder by Blake Bradford.</p><p>Junction City starter Max Lialios was tough in the loss, allowing just four hits and two runs — only one earned — across eight innings. He struck out three and walked one.</p><p>The game was a brisk affair, lasting just 2 hours and 1 minute, as both pitching staffs were sharp throughout the night.</p><p>With the win, the Monarchs, now 11-2 continue to hold their ground in the league standings while showcasing the depth of their bullpen.</p><p>Hutchinson is off today, but will travel to Junction City on Friday before a road game in Wichita on Saturday versus the Wichita Wildcats College team. The next home game is Monday, June 23rd at Hobart-Detter versus the Wildcats again.</p>

⚾ Monarchs edge Junction City in classic pitching duel

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered and drove in four runs, helping the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 6-3 on Wednesday night.

Garcia capped Kansas City's four-run third inning with a three-run drive for his career-best eighth homer. He also tripled in Bobby Witt Jr. in the eighth.

Garcia's three hits matched a season high, and his four RBIs equaled a career best.

The Royals have taken the first two in their three-game set at Texas following an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season.

Kris Bubic (6-4) earned his first win since May 19. He allowed nine hits and three runs in 5 1/3 innings, throwing a season-high 101 pitches.

Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth inning for his AL-best 20th save.

Patrick Corbin (4-6) allowed four runs over five innings for the Rangers, who have dropped two straight following a four-game win streak.

Texas opened a 2-0 lead in the first on Wyatt Langford’s RBI double and Adolis García’s run-scoring single. It closed 4-3 in the fifth on back-to-back doubles by Josh Jung and Jake Burger.

Sam Haggerty had three hits for the Rangers, matching a career high.

Texas played its second consecutive game without infielder Josh Smith, who is sidelined with a minor hamstring issue.

Lucas Erceg, the second of four Kansas City relievers, got Adolis García to ground into a double play with runners on the corners to end the seventh inning.

Texas was 5 for 13 with runners in scoring position, leaving nine on base.

Kansas City goes for the sweep Thursday with RHP Michael Wacha (3-6, 3.38 ERA). Texas will go with a bullpen game, starting with RHP Shawn Armstrong (2-1, 2.90).

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750303157188.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered and drove in four runs, helping the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 6-3 on Wednesday night.</p><p>Garcia capped Kansas City's four-run third inning with a three-run drive for his career-best eighth homer. He also tripled in Bobby Witt Jr. in the eighth.</p><p>Garcia's three hits matched a season high, and his four RBIs equaled a career best.</p><p>The Royals have taken the first two in their three-game set at Texas following an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season.</p><p>Kris Bubic (6-4) earned his first win since May 19. He allowed nine hits and three runs in 5 1/3 innings, throwing a season-high 101 pitches.</p><p>Carlos Estévez pitched a perfect ninth inning for his AL-best 20th save.</p><p>Patrick Corbin (4-6) allowed four runs over five innings for the Rangers, who have dropped two straight following a four-game win streak.</p><p>Texas opened a 2-0 lead in the first on Wyatt Langford’s RBI double and Adolis García’s run-scoring single. It closed 4-3 in the fifth on back-to-back doubles by Josh Jung and Jake Burger.</p><p>Sam Haggerty had three hits for the Rangers, matching a career high.</p><p>Texas played its second consecutive game without infielder Josh Smith, who is sidelined with a minor hamstring issue.</p><h2>Key moment</h2><p>Lucas Erceg, the second of four Kansas City relievers, got Adolis García to ground into a double play with runners on the corners to end the seventh inning.</p><h2>Key stat</h2><p>Texas was 5 for 13 with runners in scoring position, leaving nine on base.</p><h2>Up next</h2><p>Kansas City goes for the sweep Thursday with RHP Michael Wacha (3-6, 3.38 ERA). Texas will go with a bullpen game, starting with RHP Shawn Armstrong (2-1, 2.90).</p>

⚾ Maikel Garcia homers to help the Royals beat the Rangers

Hutchinson Community College sophomore first baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;was named a national Gold Glove winner on Wednesday.

The American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) released its NJCAA Division I Gold Glove team for the 2025. Maher, a sophomore from Colorado Springs, Colorado was one of Jayhawk Conference players on this year's team, which recognizes the top defensive players in the nation.

Maher, outfielder Marcus Dierks and Fort Scott pitcher Reese Kortum represent the KJCCC on this year's Gold Glove team.

Maher is the fifth Blue Dragon to earn a national Gold Glove award. Maher joins Ben McLaughlin (2022), Shane Cooper (2017), Michael Helman (2016) and Bennett Oliver (2013) as ABCA Gold Glove winners.

Previously named All-Jayhawk West honorable mention and All-Region 6 Gold Club this season, Maher is just the sixth Blue Dragon player in program history to post a 1.000 fielding percentage with more than 150 defensive chances.

Maher started 60 games at first base in 2025 and did not commit an error in 418 total defensive chances. Maher's 418 defensive chances ranked seventh in Blue Dragon single-season history. His 412 putouts are four-most in Blue Dragon history, third most by a Hutchinson first baseman.

Maher helped the 2025 Blue Dragons lead the Jayhawk West in defense this season with a .972 team fielding percentage.

Over his two years with the Blue Dragons, Maher committed only three errors in 467 total defensive chances.

Maher's .994 career fielding percentage breaks the old career record of .993 set by Scott Wolverton in 2017 and 2018. Maher is only the sixth Blue Dragon with a career fielding percentage of .990 with 150 defensive chances or more.

The Blue Dragons finished 40-21 this season, placing third in the Jayhawk West. The Dragons swept the Allen Red Devils in two games in the Plains District opening-round series at Hobart-Detter Field. The Blue Dragons went 1-2 in the Plains District Tournament in Salina.

Offensively, Maher hit .299 for the season (58 for 194) with 14 doubles, eight home runs, 41 RBIs and 59 runs scored.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750340899824.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>Hutchinson CC Sports Information</i></p><p>Hutchinson Community College sophomore first baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;was named a national Gold Glove winner on Wednesday.</p><p>The American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) released its NJCAA Division I Gold Glove team for the 2025. Maher, a sophomore from Colorado Springs, Colorado was one of Jayhawk Conference players on this year's team, which recognizes the top defensive players in the nation.</p><p>Maher, outfielder Marcus Dierks and Fort Scott pitcher Reese Kortum represent the KJCCC on this year's Gold Glove team.</p><p>Maher is the fifth Blue Dragon to earn a national Gold Glove award. Maher joins Ben McLaughlin (2022), Shane Cooper (2017), Michael Helman (2016) and Bennett Oliver (2013) as ABCA Gold Glove winners.</p><p>Previously named All-Jayhawk West honorable mention and All-Region 6 Gold Club this season, Maher is just the sixth Blue Dragon player in program history to post a 1.000 fielding percentage with more than 150 defensive chances.</p><p>Maher started 60 games at first base in 2025 and did not commit an error in 418 total defensive chances. Maher's 418 defensive chances ranked seventh in Blue Dragon single-season history. His 412 putouts are four-most in Blue Dragon history, third most by a Hutchinson first baseman.</p><p>Maher helped the 2025 Blue Dragons lead the Jayhawk West in defense this season with a .972 team fielding percentage.</p><p>Over his two years with the Blue Dragons, Maher committed only three errors in 467 total defensive chances.</p><p>Maher's .994 career fielding percentage breaks the old career record of .993 set by Scott Wolverton in 2017 and 2018. Maher is only the sixth Blue Dragon with a career fielding percentage of .990 with 150 defensive chances or more.</p><p>The Blue Dragons finished 40-21 this season, placing third in the Jayhawk West. The Dragons swept the Allen Red Devils in two games in the Plains District opening-round series at Hobart-Detter Field. The Blue Dragons went 1-2 in the Plains District Tournament in Salina.</p><p>Offensively, Maher hit .299 for the season (58 for 194) with 14 doubles, eight home runs, 41 RBIs and 59 runs scored.</p>

⚾ HutchCC's Maher named ABCA NJCAA Gold Glove winner

Hutchinson Community College national championship golfer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;has been named a finalist for the 2025 Gary Player International Golfer of the Year Award.

Presented by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) and FlightScope, the award recognizes outstanding international student-athletes in college golf across NCAA Divisions I, II, III, NAIA and NJCAA.

Box, a sophomore from Leicester, England, became the second Blue Dragon golfer to capture an NJCAA Individual national championship when he captured the 2025 NJCAA title on May 16 at Sand Creek Station.

Box shot a 1-over-par 73 in the fourth and final round and finished with a 5-under 283 for his fourth tournament win of the season and fifth of his Blue Dragon career.

Box joined Ben Partridge as the only Blue Dragon golfers to win the NJCAA Individual national championship in program history. Partridge won a four-hole playoff with teammate Harry Crockett in 2021 in Lubbock, Texas.

Box also joined Partridge in an exclusive club as the only back-to-back NJCAA first-team All-Americans in back-to-back seasons. Box is also the eighth Blue Dragon to earn both NJCAA and PING All-America honors in the same season.

Other finalists at the NJCAA Division I level are Gabriele Bravin (Heartland College); Adam Bresnu (Odessa), Stanley Campbell (Mississippi Gulf Coast), Jorge Parada (South Mountain) and Scott Spark (Midland).

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750268694918.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson CC Sports Information" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson CC Sports Information</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Hutchinson CC Sports Information</p><p>Hutchinson Community College national championship golfer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;has been named a finalist for the 2025 Gary Player International Golfer of the Year Award.</p><p>Presented by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) and FlightScope, the award recognizes outstanding international student-athletes in college golf across NCAA Divisions I, II, III, NAIA and NJCAA.</p><p>Box, a sophomore from Leicester, England, became the second Blue Dragon golfer to capture an NJCAA Individual national championship when he captured the 2025 NJCAA title on May 16 at Sand Creek Station.</p><p>Box shot a 1-over-par 73 in the fourth and final round and finished with a 5-under 283 for his fourth tournament win of the season and fifth of his Blue Dragon career.</p><p>Box joined Ben Partridge as the only Blue Dragon golfers to win the NJCAA Individual national championship in program history. Partridge won a four-hole playoff with teammate Harry Crockett in 2021 in Lubbock, Texas.</p><p>Box also joined Partridge in an exclusive club as the only back-to-back NJCAA first-team All-Americans in back-to-back seasons. Box is also the eighth Blue Dragon to earn both NJCAA and PING All-America honors in the same season.</p><p>Other finalists at the NJCAA Division I level are Gabriele Bravin (Heartland College); Adam Bresnu (Odessa), Stanley Campbell (Mississippi Gulf Coast), Jorge Parada (South Mountain) and Scott Spark (Midland).</p>

⛳ HutchCC's Box named finalist for Gary Player Award

McPherson High School is proud to announce Stephanie Patterson as the new head coach of the Bullpup Softball Program. Coach Patterson brings a strong background as both a player and coach and was most recently a varsity assistant on the undefeated 2025 Bullpup team that captured the 4A State Championship.

Originally from the Hutchinson area, Patterson is a graduate of Buhler High School (2011) and a former standout at Kansas Wesleyan University, where she played four years and was part of two conference championship teams. Her teams also earned a top-25 national ranking in NAIA.

Patterson has five years of coaching experience at the high school level. She served as an assistant coach at Buhler High School for four seasons before joining the Bullpup staff in 2025. Her dedication, energy, and deep understanding of the game have made an immediate impact on the McPherson program.

“MHS is excited to name Stephanie Patterson as the next head coach of the Bullpup Softball Program,” said Athletic Director Shane Backhus. “Her experience with our program, as well as the high school program at Buhler, has provided her with a strong coaching foundation that we are confident can lead our program for years to come.”

Coach Patterson lives a busy life as a mother of two—Quinn and Maverick Copeland—and can often be found coaching her daughter’s teams or cheering on her son from the stands. She is passionate about the game of softball and is eager to lead the next chapter of success for McPherson Softball.

To kick off her first season as head coach, Patterson will host a Bullpup Softball Camp at Grant Sports Complex, July 14–17 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The camp is open to young athletes looking to sharpen their skills and connect with the program.

For questions or additional information, Coach Patterson can be reached at spatterson@security1st.com or (620) 200-6809.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750262089450.png" alt="Photo Courtesy McPherson High School" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy McPherson High School</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>McPherson High School</i></p><p>McPherson High School is proud to announce Stephanie Patterson as the new head coach of the Bullpup Softball Program. Coach Patterson brings a strong background as both a player and coach and was most recently a varsity assistant on the undefeated 2025 Bullpup team that captured the 4A State Championship.</p><p>Originally from the Hutchinson area, Patterson is a graduate of Buhler High School (2011) and a former standout at Kansas Wesleyan University, where she played four years and was part of two conference championship teams. Her teams also earned a top-25 national ranking in NAIA.</p><p>Patterson has five years of coaching experience at the high school level. She served as an assistant coach at Buhler High School for four seasons before joining the Bullpup staff in 2025. Her dedication, energy, and deep understanding of the game have made an immediate impact on the McPherson program.</p><p>“MHS is excited to name Stephanie Patterson as the next head coach of the Bullpup Softball Program,” said Athletic Director Shane Backhus. “Her experience with our program, as well as the high school program at Buhler, has provided her with a strong coaching foundation that we are confident can lead our program for years to come.”</p><p>Coach Patterson lives a busy life as a mother of two—Quinn and Maverick Copeland—and can often be found coaching her daughter’s teams or cheering on her son from the stands. She is passionate about the game of softball and is eager to lead the next chapter of success for McPherson Softball.</p><p>To kick off her first season as head coach, Patterson will host a Bullpup Softball Camp at Grant Sports Complex, July 14–17 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The camp is open to young athletes looking to sharpen their skills and connect with the program.</p><p>For questions or additional information, Coach Patterson can be reached at spatterson@security1st.com or (620) 200-6809.</p>

🥎 McPherson High School names Patterson new head coach

DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.

The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:

Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).

Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.

The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.

<a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf"><b>Click here</b></a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725282945901.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>DODGE CITY, Kan. — Eagle Media will serve as the official radio broadcast partner of the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, set for Saturday, June 21, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.</p><p>The broadcast team features Gerard Wellbrock as play-by-play, Dustin Armbruster as analyst, and Sean Boston and Anthony Gorges reporting from the West and East sidelines, respectively. Glen Grunwald will serve as the producer.</p><p>The game will air live across five Eagle Media markets:</p><ul>
                        <li>Hutchinson (102.9 FM – flagship station)
</li><li>Great Bend (100.7 FM)
</li><li>Hays (101.9 FM)
</li><li>Salina (910 AM/107.5 FM)</li><li>Manhattan (103.5 FM)
</li>
                    </ul><p>Additional coverage will be available on affiliate stations in Beloit (1190 AM, 102.9 FM, 105.5 FM) and Coffeyville (690 AM/104.1 FM).</p><p>Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. with a 30-minute show featuring interviews and more.</p><p>The Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to producing annual events that benefit Shriners Children’s. Since its inception in 1974, the organization has raised nearly $4 million for the healthcare network, which provides pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.</p><p>In addition to the East vs. West all-star football game, Kansas Shrine All-Star Events include the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, the KWCA Kansas Shrine Duals, and a variety of other game week activities. Shriners Children’s, formerly known as Shriners Hospitals for Children, operates facilities and outreach programs worldwide, offering innovative research, teaching programs, and family-centered care to children up to age 18.</p><p><a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/uploads/1/0/2/8/10280235/2025_kansas_shrine_bowl_rosters_-_updated_6-16-25.pdf"><b>Click here</b></a> for complete rosters for the Kansas Shrine Bowl game.</p>

Eagle Media to serve as official radio home of Kansas Shrine Bowl

<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a><br><i>Hutch Post</i>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Rusty Hilst, a revered teacher, broadcaster, and golfer who became a cornerstone of the Hutchinson community for more than five decades, has died after a long battle with ALS. He was 82.

Best known for his steady voice on the radio and his steady hand in the classroom, Hilst dedicated his life to education, athletics, and storytelling, leaving behind a legacy etched into generations of Hutchinson lives.&nbsp;

“Rusty was the most prepared person I’ve ever met when it came to his sports broadcasts,” said longtime broadcast partner Rob Dreher. “We were super early to any broadcast we ever did. I’ll miss the away games and car rides the most.”&nbsp;

Born on Dec. 29, 1942, in Pratt, Hilst overcame early adversity after contracting rheumatic fever in second grade. Confined to bed for eight months, he taught himself to read, a foreshadowing of the intellect and resilience that would define his life.&nbsp;

His family moved to Hutchinson in 1957, where Hilst soon became a standout golfer at Hutchinson High School. He helped lead the Salthawks to a 4-man state title in 1960 and remained deeply tied to local golf throughout his life, winning city championships and later earning a place in the Kansas Golf Hall of Fame in 2002.&nbsp;

After earning degrees from Valparaiso University and the University of Kansas, Hilst planned to pursue a PhD until a last-minute vacancy at Hutch High brought him home. What started as a one-semester teaching stint turned into a 53-year career shaping minds and mentoring students as beloved math teacher and golf coach. He taught calculus, trigonometry and college algebra and became chair of the HHS Math Department in 1978.&nbsp;

In 1969, Hilst added another title to his résumé: broadcaster. He began calling games for KWHK Radio, then joined KWBW in 1980, launching a decades-long career covering Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Community College, and the NJCAA Tournament. He served as sports director at Eagle Communications from 1995 to 2019 and earned numerous honors, including the Hod Humiston Award from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters and Kansas Sportscaster of the Year in 2004.&nbsp;

“For 22 seasons, from September 1998 to March 2019, Rusty Hilst and I shared the road, the press box, and countless memories,” said former broadcast partner Glen Grunwald. “He was a dear friend, a mentor, and truly one of a kind.”&nbsp;

Grunwald described Hilst as the consummate professional, calm, thorough, and generous with his time. “Rusty had a passion for sports, but even more so for the people around him. He poured his heart into everything he did,” Grunwald said.&nbsp;

Grunwald, who partnered with Hilst for more than two decades on Salthawk broadcasts, remembered a man who was more than just a colleague, he was a friend and mentor whose wisdom carried into everyday life.&nbsp;

“A few days before Christmas 2022, Rusty told me he had been diagnosed with ALS,” longtime broadcast partner Dan Naccarato said. “He faced the most difficult ordeal imaginable with dignity, courage, wisdom and humor.”&nbsp;

In 2014, Hilst became the first non-player, coach or administrator inducted into the Hutchinson Community College Quarterback Club Hall of Fame, a recognition of his unmatched service to Blue Dragon athletics through broadcasting and advocacy.&nbsp;

In 2023, Hilst received one of the state’s highest honors in education when he was inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame, a tribute to his extraordinary impact in the classroom over five decades.&nbsp;

Later that year, Hutchinson High School dedicated “Rusty’s Room,” a calm space for students to reset emotionally and mentally, fittingly located in the same hallway where he taught math for most of his 54-year teaching career.&nbsp;

“When I changed careers from the corporate world to teaching at HutchCC, Rusty was one of the first mentors I called,” Naccarato added. “His advice, to trust your intuition, build relationships with students, and learn to teach without using textbooks, still echoes in my mind today.”&nbsp;

From his early days teaching himself to read, to the late nights preparing for radio broadcasts, Hilst’s life was defined by a love for learning, a gift for connection, and a voice that guided, and comforted, thousands.&nbsp;

“Rusty leaves behind a legacy of excellence, kindness, and integrity,” Grunwald said. “He will be missed but never forgotten.”&nbsp;

Memorial services have not yet been announced but will be posted when available.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750256600191.jpeg" alt="In this 2019 file photo taken before a Hutchinson Community College football game, longtime Blue Dragon broadcaster Rusty Hilst, seated, poses with Rob Dreher, left, and Glen Grunwald, right, in the press box at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson, Kan. Hilst died after a long battle with ALS at the age of 82." />
                        <figcaption>In this 2019 file photo taken before a Hutchinson Community College football game, longtime Blue Dragon broadcaster Rusty Hilst, seated, poses with Rob Dreher, left, and Glen Grunwald, right, in the press box at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson, Kan. Hilst died after a long battle with ALS at the age of 82.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a><br><i>Hutch Post</i></p><p>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Rusty Hilst, a revered teacher, broadcaster, and golfer who became a cornerstone of the Hutchinson community for more than five decades, has died after a long battle with ALS. He was 82.</p><p>Best known for his steady voice on the radio and his steady hand in the classroom, Hilst dedicated his life to education, athletics, and storytelling, leaving behind a legacy etched into generations of Hutchinson lives.&nbsp;</p><p>“Rusty was the most prepared person I’ve ever met when it came to his sports broadcasts,” said longtime broadcast partner Rob Dreher. “We were super early to any broadcast we ever did. I’ll miss the away games and car rides the most.”&nbsp;</p><p>Born on Dec. 29, 1942, in Pratt, Hilst overcame early adversity after contracting rheumatic fever in second grade. Confined to bed for eight months, he taught himself to read, a foreshadowing of the intellect and resilience that would define his life.&nbsp;</p><p>His family moved to Hutchinson in 1957, where Hilst soon became a standout golfer at Hutchinson High School. He helped lead the Salthawks to a 4-man state title in 1960 and remained deeply tied to local golf throughout his life, winning city championships and later earning a place in the Kansas Golf Hall of Fame in 2002.&nbsp;</p><p>After earning degrees from Valparaiso University and the University of Kansas, Hilst planned to pursue a PhD until a last-minute vacancy at Hutch High brought him home. What started as a one-semester teaching stint turned into a 53-year career shaping minds and mentoring students as beloved math teacher and golf coach. He taught calculus, trigonometry and college algebra and became chair of the HHS Math Department in 1978.&nbsp;</p><p>In 1969, Hilst added another title to his résumé: broadcaster. He began calling games for KWHK Radio, then joined KWBW in 1980, launching a decades-long career covering Hutchinson High School, Hutchinson Community College, and the NJCAA Tournament. He served as sports director at Eagle Communications from 1995 to 2019 and earned numerous honors, including the Hod Humiston Award from the Kansas Association of Broadcasters and Kansas Sportscaster of the Year in 2004.&nbsp;</p><p>“For 22 seasons, from September 1998 to March 2019, Rusty Hilst and I shared the road, the press box, and countless memories,” said former broadcast partner Glen Grunwald. “He was a dear friend, a mentor, and truly one of a kind.”&nbsp;</p><p>Grunwald described Hilst as the consummate professional, calm, thorough, and generous with his time. “Rusty had a passion for sports, but even more so for the people around him. He poured his heart into everything he did,” Grunwald said.&nbsp;</p><p>Grunwald, who partnered with Hilst for more than two decades on Salthawk broadcasts, remembered a man who was more than just a colleague, he was a friend and mentor whose wisdom carried into everyday life.&nbsp;</p><p>“A few days before Christmas 2022, Rusty told me he had been diagnosed with ALS,” longtime broadcast partner Dan Naccarato said. “He faced the most difficult ordeal imaginable with dignity, courage, wisdom and humor.”&nbsp;</p><p>In 2014, Hilst became the first non-player, coach or administrator inducted into the Hutchinson Community College Quarterback Club Hall of Fame, a recognition of his unmatched service to Blue Dragon athletics through broadcasting and advocacy.&nbsp;</p><p>In 2023, Hilst received one of the state’s highest honors in education when he was inducted into the Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame, a tribute to his extraordinary impact in the classroom over five decades.&nbsp;</p><p>Later that year, Hutchinson High School dedicated “Rusty’s Room,” a calm space for students to reset emotionally and mentally, fittingly located in the same hallway where he taught math for most of his 54-year teaching career.&nbsp;</p><p>“When I changed careers from the corporate world to teaching at HutchCC, Rusty was one of the first mentors I called,” Naccarato added. “His advice, to trust your intuition, build relationships with students, and learn to teach without using textbooks, still echoes in my mind today.”&nbsp;</p><p>From his early days teaching himself to read, to the late nights preparing for radio broadcasts, Hilst’s life was defined by a love for learning, a gift for connection, and a voice that guided, and comforted, thousands.&nbsp;</p><p>“Rusty leaves behind a legacy of excellence, kindness, and integrity,” Grunwald said. “He will be missed but never forgotten.”&nbsp;</p><p>Memorial services have not yet been announced but will be posted when available.&nbsp;</p><div><iframe title="Remembering Rusty Hilst: 5th and 6th straight state title final calls" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5rfn9-18deb23-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Hutchinson mourns loss of beloved teacher, broadcaster Rusty Hilst

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
                        <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Wednesday, June 18, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=g5tbt-18de55d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals end losing streak; ⚾ Wind Surge win in Arkansas; ⚾ Monarchs home tonight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Mother Nature took the win Tuesday night as severe storms sweeping through central Kansas forced the postponement of the scheduled game between the Hutchinson Monarchs and Kingman Islanders. A makeup date has not yet been announced.

The Monarchs (10-2) will look to bounce back tonight as they host the Junction City Brigade in a non-league matchup at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

Hutchinson is slated for 19 home games this season, all of which will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Glen Grunwald of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750247979073.jpeg" alt="Game Day - Hutch Monarchs vs Junction City Brigade tonight at Hobart-Detter Field" />
                        <figcaption>Game Day - Hutch Monarchs vs Junction City Brigade tonight at Hobart-Detter Field</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Mother Nature took the win Tuesday night as severe storms sweeping through central Kansas forced the postponement of the scheduled game between the Hutchinson Monarchs and Kingman Islanders. A makeup date has not yet been announced.</p><p>The Monarchs (10-2) will look to bounce back tonight as they host the Junction City Brigade in a non-league matchup at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.</p><p>Hutchinson is slated for 19 home games this season, all of which will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Glen Grunwald of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.</p><div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2466966?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs host Junction City Brigade at Hobart-Detter

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750252970088.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><p><em>Wichita Wind Surge</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p>NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (June 17, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/andrew-cossetti-681355"><strong>Andrew Cossetti</strong></a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kyler-fedko-693459"><strong>Kyler Fedko</strong></a>&nbsp;both account for multiple RBIs in the Wichita Wind Surge 6-1 win over the Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. All six runs for the Wind Surge came unanswered after they were left trailing 1-0 after four frames.</p>
<p>Both starting pitchers,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/darren-bowen-804539"><strong>Darren Bowen</strong></a>&nbsp;and Adam Seminaris, faced just one batter over the minimum through the first three innings. Bowen picked off a runner at first base while Seminaris gave up just one hit over that span.</p>
<p>After loading the bases on a hit and two walks, the Travelers were the first team to get on the board after an infield groundout in the bottom of the fourth. Fedko chopped one to the left side to tie the game 1-1 in the top of the fifth after Ben Ross scored from third base.</p>
<p>Fedko singled to left to bring in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/darren-bowen-804539"><strong>Jake Rucker</strong></a>&nbsp;for the lead in the top of the seventh. Wichita then scored four runs on four hits to start the eighth, with Cossetti collecting two RBIs and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/rubel-cespedes-686438"><strong>Rubel Cespedes</strong></a>&nbsp;and Rucker each receiving one in the inning.</p>
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<p><a href="https://www.milb.com/player/michael-martinez-681597"><strong>Michael Martinez</strong></a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jacob-wosinski-814291"><strong>Jacob Wosinski</strong></a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/tanner-schobel-802355"><strong>Tanner Andrews</strong></a>&nbsp;all entered out of the bullpen to shut out Arkansas for the final five and a third innings of the ballgame. Martinez escaped a jam with men on second and third in the fourth. Wosinski earned the win to improve to 1-1 in Wichita this year after striking out three over two innings of one-hit baseball, while Andrews shut the door by leaving men on the corners in the bottom of the ninth.</p>
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<p><strong>POSTGAME NOTES</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Darren Bowen and Michael Martinez each picked off a baserunner while on the mound for Wichita.</li>
<li>The five straight wins are the most games the Wind Surge have taken consecutively in 2025.</li>
<li>None of the four Wichita pitchers used tonight gave up more than three hits.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge bullpen as a unit struck out six men against zero walks over the last five and a third innings.</li>
<li>After the win, Wichita stands three games back of Springfield for first place in the Texas League North</li>
</ul>
<p>The Wind Surge continue their series with the Arkansas Travelers on June 18 at 4:35 PM at Dickey-Stephens Park. Wichita returns to Equity Bank Park for a series with the Springfield Cardinals on June 24. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</p></div>

⚾ Wind Surge earn come-from-behind win Tuesday

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bobby-witt-jr-homers-9-on-a-fly-ball-to-left-field?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">Bobby Witt Jr. went deep</a>&nbsp;in his hometown team's ballpark for the first time and the Kansas City Royals stopped a six-game losing streak with a 6-1 victory over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.

Seth Lugo struck out a season-high nine for his first win since May 1 as all three active Kansas City All-Stars from last year's Midsummer Classic at Globe Life Field returned to Texas and had a hand in ending the team's five-game skid against the Rangers.

Lugo (4-5), who threw a scoreless inning in the American League's 5-3 victory last July, gave up three hits and a run over six innings in his return to Arlington.

With the Royals coming off an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season, Perez hit a two-run shot for a 3-0 lead in the first inning. After adding an RBI double in the fourth, Perez connected for his eighth homer of the year, a solo shot that made it 6-1 in the sixth.

Witt also homered off Jack Leiter in a matchup between sons of former major league pitchers. Witt grew up in the Dallas area, where Bobby Witt settled after spending 11 of his 16 big league seasons with the Rangers.

Leiter (4-4) is the son of Al Leiter, who had a 19-year major league career. The rookie right-hander gave up eight hits and six runs — both matching season highs — in 5 2/3 innings.

The Rangers equaled their season high by striking out 14 times.

Texas rookie Alejandro Osuna had his first career RBI in the fourth.

Perez had his 18th multihomer game, breaking George Brett's franchise record.

Kansas City's Kris Bubic (5-4, 1.92 ERA) faces Patrick Corbin (4-5, 3.66) in a matchup of lefties Wednesday.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750218631971.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bobby-witt-jr-homers-9-on-a-fly-ball-to-left-field?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">Bobby Witt Jr. went deep</a>&nbsp;in his hometown team's ballpark for the first time and the Kansas City Royals stopped a six-game losing streak with a 6-1 victory over the Texas Rangers on Tuesday night.</p><p>Seth Lugo struck out a season-high nine for his first win since May 1 as all three active Kansas City All-Stars from last year's Midsummer Classic at Globe Life Field returned to Texas and had a hand in ending the team's five-game skid against the Rangers.</p><p>Lugo (4-5), who threw a scoreless inning in the American League's 5-3 victory last July, gave up three hits and a run over six innings in his return to Arlington.</p><p>With the Royals coming off an 0-6 homestand that matched their longest losing streak of the season, Perez hit a two-run shot for a 3-0 lead in the first inning. After adding an RBI double in the fourth, Perez connected for his eighth homer of the year, a solo shot that made it 6-1 in the sixth.</p><p>Witt also homered off Jack Leiter in a matchup between sons of former major league pitchers. Witt grew up in the Dallas area, where Bobby Witt settled after spending 11 of his 16 big league seasons with the Rangers.</p><p>Leiter (4-4) is the son of Al Leiter, who had a 19-year major league career. The rookie right-hander gave up eight hits and six runs — both matching season highs — in 5 2/3 innings.</p><p>The Rangers equaled their season high by striking out 14 times.</p><h2>Key moment</h2><p>Texas rookie Alejandro Osuna had his first career RBI in the fourth.</p><h2>Key stat</h2><p>Perez had his 18th multihomer game, breaking George Brett's franchise record.</p><h2>Up next</h2><p>Kansas City's Kris Bubic (5-4, 1.92 ERA) faces Patrick Corbin (4-5, 3.66) in a matchup of lefties Wednesday.</p>

⚾ Perez homers twice as Royals beat the Rangers 

SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Stanley’s stay in South Florida is getting extended.

The Florida Panthers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-2024-panthers-oilers-game-7-37f35a84a80b8f1494d3c38511d312f6">repeated as Stanley Cup champions</a>&nbsp;by beating the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-f1e4c21e1c1170b42e881a56efa444c9">Game 6 of the final</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday night, becoming the NHL’s first back-to-back winners since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fl-state-wire-montreal-canadiens-tampa-bay-lightning-canada-hockey-78ac7459e35576c83c5512baf63c43c4">Tampa Bay in 2020 and ’21</a>&nbsp;and the third team to do it this century.

Sam Reinhart scored four goals, becoming just the sixth player in league history and first since Maurice Richard in 1957 to get that many in a game in the final. His third to complete the hat trick sent rats, along with hats, flying onto the ice. Matthew Tkachuk, one of the faces of the franchise, fittingly scored the Cup clincher.

More rats were part of the victory celebration when the clock hit zeroes. Panthers players mobbed in the corner, while the Oilers watched in dismay.

“Good evening, South Florida,” Commissioner Gary Bettman said before presenting the trophy to captain Aleksander Barkov. “It feels like we just did this.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-c81b1f92bc991a8d0b966b80a2c7101f">Sergei Bobrovsky</a>&nbsp;stopped 28 of the 29 shots he faced, closing the door on a rematch with the same end result. The only goal came from fellow Russian Vasily Podkolzin in garbage time, long after the outcome was decided and the NHL put a bow on a remarkable season that included Alex Ovechkin’s milestone as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ovechkin-gretzky-nhl-scoring-record-6f42df7b99d4693cc3f5bd6aff009af4">all-time leading goal scorer</a>&nbsp;and Olympics-like buzz around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/4-nations-faceoff-nhl-dcef4c79bda1ade74d472b85adcad8e8">the 4 Nations tournament</a>&nbsp;in February.

There were chants of “We want the Cup!” as the final moments ticked away. The Panthers already had it.

“This is as good as the first one,” Reinhart said. “We learned some lessons. We stayed on the gas, foot on the pedal, and obviously the result speaks for itself.”

Not long after the Lightning made three trips to the final in a row, Florida has done the same and now has the makings of a dynasty. The Panthers have won 11 of 12 playoff series since T&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-relationships-florida-15cfbe5f1682d785c585251f8298ad8c">kachuk arrived</a>&nbsp;by trade and Paul Maurice took over as coach in the summer of 2022.

“We’ve got to be a dynasty now,” Tkachuk said. “Three years in a row finals, two championships. This is a special group.”

The only time they have been on the wrong side of a handshake line was the final in Vegas in 2023, only after several key players were banged up and gutting through significant injuries.

From the core of Tkachuk, Reinhart, Barkov and Sam Bennett on down the roster,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-healthy-panthers-oilers-ee9b7e66cee6e21dc53dd8759933a32b">they were much healthier</a>&nbsp;this time around and were boosted by key trade deadline additions Brad Marchand and Seth Jones. Bennett led all goal-scorers this postseason with 15, and Marchand had six in the final alone.

Bennett won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. Barkov handed the Cup to first-time champion Nate Schmidt, and all the others winning it for the first time got it soon after.

“It’s amazing to be able to be here,” Schmidt said. “I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.”

Getting depth contributions from throughout the lineup allowed them to overpower Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and the Oilers, who struggled with Florida’s ferocious forecheck and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-74ab5264db15b6c798c9620362f72dd8">switched goaltenders multiple times</a>&nbsp;in the final. Stuart Skinner got the nod in Game 6 and was again done in by mistakes in front of him that ended with the puck in the net behind him and had his own blunder on Reinhart’s second goal.

McDavid tried to take over but was again stymied by Barkov, Jones and Bobrovsky. He finished with seven points in his second career trip to the final, again denied his first title.

The Panthers spent more time leading during this Stanley Cup Final than any previous team in history, 255:49 minutes in all.

“We lost to a really good team,” McDavid said. “Nobody quit, nobody threw the towel in, but they’re a heck of a team. They’re back-to-back Stanley Cup champions for a reason.”

Canada’s Stanley Cup drought reached 31 seasons and 32 years dating to Montreal in 1993. Teams in the U.S. Sun Belt have won it five of the past six times, four of them in Florida.

This run through Tampa Bay in five games, Toronto in seven, Carolina in five and Edmonton in six showed how clinical the Panthers have become under Maurice, who has coached more NHL games than everyone except Scotty Bowman and is now a two-time champion.

So is Marchand, who last hoisted the Cup in 2011 with the Boston Bruins. The 14-year gap is the third-longest in league history, just shy of 16 for Chris Chelios from 1986 to 2002 and 15 for Mark Recchi from ’91 to ’06.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750251799557.jpeg" alt="The Florida Panthers raise the Stanley Cup after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final in Sunrise, Fla., Tuesday, June 17, 2025. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP)" />
                        <figcaption>The Florida Panthers raise the Stanley Cup after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final in Sunrise, Fla., Tuesday, June 17, 2025. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SUNRISE, Fla. (AP) — Stanley’s stay in South Florida is getting extended.</p><p>The Florida Panthers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-2024-panthers-oilers-game-7-37f35a84a80b8f1494d3c38511d312f6">repeated as Stanley Cup champions</a>&nbsp;by beating the Edmonton Oilers 5-1 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-f1e4c21e1c1170b42e881a56efa444c9">Game 6 of the final</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday night, becoming the NHL’s first back-to-back winners since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fl-state-wire-montreal-canadiens-tampa-bay-lightning-canada-hockey-78ac7459e35576c83c5512baf63c43c4">Tampa Bay in 2020 and ’21</a>&nbsp;and the third team to do it this century.</p><p>Sam Reinhart scored four goals, becoming just the sixth player in league history and first since Maurice Richard in 1957 to get that many in a game in the final. His third to complete the hat trick sent rats, along with hats, flying onto the ice. Matthew Tkachuk, one of the faces of the franchise, fittingly scored the Cup clincher.</p><p>More rats were part of the victory celebration when the clock hit zeroes. Panthers players mobbed in the corner, while the Oilers watched in dismay.</p><p>“Good evening, South Florida,” Commissioner Gary Bettman said before presenting the trophy to captain Aleksander Barkov. “It feels like we just did this.”</p><p><a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-c81b1f92bc991a8d0b966b80a2c7101f">Sergei Bobrovsky</a>&nbsp;stopped 28 of the 29 shots he faced, closing the door on a rematch with the same end result. The only goal came from fellow Russian Vasily Podkolzin in garbage time, long after the outcome was decided and the NHL put a bow on a remarkable season that included Alex Ovechkin’s milestone as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ovechkin-gretzky-nhl-scoring-record-6f42df7b99d4693cc3f5bd6aff009af4">all-time leading goal scorer</a>&nbsp;and Olympics-like buzz around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/4-nations-faceoff-nhl-dcef4c79bda1ade74d472b85adcad8e8">the 4 Nations tournament</a>&nbsp;in February.</p><p>There were chants of “We want the Cup!” as the final moments ticked away. The Panthers already had it.</p><p>Now they get to keep it.</p><p>“This is as good as the first one,” Reinhart said. “We learned some lessons. We stayed on the gas, foot on the pedal, and obviously the result speaks for itself.”</p><p>Not long after the Lightning made three trips to the final in a row, Florida has done the same and now has the makings of a dynasty. The Panthers have won 11 of 12 playoff series since T&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-relationships-florida-15cfbe5f1682d785c585251f8298ad8c">kachuk arrived</a>&nbsp;by trade and Paul Maurice took over as coach in the summer of 2022.</p><p>“We’ve got to be a dynasty now,” Tkachuk said. “Three years in a row finals, two championships. This is a special group.”</p><p>The only time they have been on the wrong side of a handshake line was the final in Vegas in 2023, only after several key players were banged up and gutting through significant injuries.</p><p>From the core of Tkachuk, Reinhart, Barkov and Sam Bennett on down the roster,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-healthy-panthers-oilers-ee9b7e66cee6e21dc53dd8759933a32b">they were much healthier</a>&nbsp;this time around and were boosted by key trade deadline additions Brad Marchand and Seth Jones. Bennett led all goal-scorers this postseason with 15, and Marchand had six in the final alone.</p><p>Bennett won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. Barkov handed the Cup to first-time champion Nate Schmidt, and all the others winning it for the first time got it soon after.</p><p>“It’s amazing to be able to be here,” Schmidt said. “I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.”</p><p>Getting depth contributions from throughout the lineup allowed them to overpower Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and the Oilers, who struggled with Florida’s ferocious forecheck and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stanley-cup-nhl-playoffs-74ab5264db15b6c798c9620362f72dd8">switched goaltenders multiple times</a>&nbsp;in the final. Stuart Skinner got the nod in Game 6 and was again done in by mistakes in front of him that ended with the puck in the net behind him and had his own blunder on Reinhart’s second goal.</p><p>McDavid tried to take over but was again stymied by Barkov, Jones and Bobrovsky. He finished with seven points in his second career trip to the final, again denied his first title.</p><p>The Panthers spent more time leading during this Stanley Cup Final than any previous team in history, 255:49 minutes in all.</p><p>“We lost to a really good team,” McDavid said. “Nobody quit, nobody threw the towel in, but they’re a heck of a team. They’re back-to-back Stanley Cup champions for a reason.”</p><p>Canada’s Stanley Cup drought reached 31 seasons and 32 years dating to Montreal in 1993. Teams in the U.S. Sun Belt have won it five of the past six times, four of them in Florida.</p><p>This run through Tampa Bay in five games, Toronto in seven, Carolina in five and Edmonton in six showed how clinical the Panthers have become under Maurice, who has coached more NHL games than everyone except Scotty Bowman and is now a two-time champion.</p><p>So is Marchand, who last hoisted the Cup in 2011 with the Boston Bruins. The 14-year gap is the third-longest in league history, just shy of 16 for Chris Chelios from 1986 to 2002 and 15 for Mark Recchi from ’91 to ’06.</p>

🏒 Back-to-back Cats: Panthers repeat as Stanley Cup champions by beating the Oilers in 6 games

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce and Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith, who skipped voluntary workouts after receiving the franchise tag, were present for the start of the Kansas City Chiefs' mandatory three-day minicamp Tuesday.

Kelce also was absent for the voluntary workouts that had been open to reporters in recent weeks.

Smith is hoping to land a long-term contract with the Chiefs, who chose him in the sixth round of the 2021 draft, when his stock had plummeted amid health concerns. He has far outplayed that draft positioning, though, and that is why the Chiefs gave him the franchise tag — essentially a $23.4 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season.

Smith and the Chiefs have until mid-July to work out a new contract, otherwise he will play the season on the one-year deal.

Smith was not made available to reporters Tuesday, but the fact that he reported to the mandatory minicamp — rather than risk a potential fine — was noteworthy. Two years ago, defensive tackle Chris Jones held out all summer and into the start of the regular season before eventually agreeing to a contract with Kansas City.

“It's good (Smith) didn't take my approach,” Jones quipped. “He shouldn't take advice from me.”

While the Chiefs worked through several lineups during the roughly 90-minute session, Smith's decision to report did give them an opportunity to see what their revamped offensive line could look like this upcoming season.

After they struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes for most of last season, and especially during a lopsided Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Chiefs began the makeover by trading two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney to the Bears for a draft pick in March.

The Chiefs proceeded to draft Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, with the final pick in the first round.

Simmons was widely considered the top tackle available, but he was coming off a knee injury that caused him to slip to the 32nd overall pick. The Chiefs were confident in their medical workup on him, though, and that gamble appears to be paying off: He was on the field and moving around well during the start of the minicamp.

“Just trying to be available as I can right now,” he said.

It's unclear whether Simmons will be a full participant when training camp begins in late July, but things appear to be trending in that direction. And that raises hopes around Kansas City that Mahomes will finally have a capable blind-side protector.

“I wanted to be able to throw the pads on ASAP,” Simmons said. “Whatever the staff allows me to do, I'm definitely going to do.”

<p>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce and Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith, who skipped voluntary workouts after receiving the franchise tag, were present for the start of the Kansas City Chiefs' mandatory three-day minicamp Tuesday.</p><p>Kelce also was absent for the voluntary workouts that had been open to reporters in recent weeks.</p><p>Smith is hoping to land a long-term contract with the Chiefs, who chose him in the sixth round of the 2021 draft, when his stock had plummeted amid health concerns. He has far outplayed that draft positioning, though, and that is why the Chiefs gave him the franchise tag — essentially a $23.4 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season.</p><p>Smith and the Chiefs have until mid-July to work out a new contract, otherwise he will play the season on the one-year deal.</p><p>Smith was not made available to reporters Tuesday, but the fact that he reported to the mandatory minicamp — rather than risk a potential fine — was noteworthy. Two years ago, defensive tackle Chris Jones held out all summer and into the start of the regular season before eventually agreeing to a contract with Kansas City.</p><p>“It's good (Smith) didn't take my approach,” Jones quipped. “He shouldn't take advice from me.”</p><p>While the Chiefs worked through several lineups during the roughly 90-minute session, Smith's decision to report did give them an opportunity to see what their revamped offensive line could look like this upcoming season.</p><p>After they struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes for most of last season, and especially during a lopsided Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Chiefs began the makeover by trading two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney to the Bears for a draft pick in March.</p><p>The Chiefs proceeded to draft Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, with the final pick in the first round.</p><p>Simmons was widely considered the top tackle available, but he was coming off a knee injury that caused him to slip to the 32nd overall pick. The Chiefs were confident in their medical workup on him, though, and that gamble appears to be paying off: He was on the field and moving around well during the start of the minicamp.</p><p>“Just trying to be available as I can right now,” he said.</p><p>It's unclear whether Simmons will be a full participant when training camp begins in late July, but things appear to be trending in that direction. And that raises hopes around Kansas City that Mahomes will finally have a capable blind-side protector.</p><p>“I wanted to be able to throw the pads on ASAP,” Simmons said. “Whatever the staff allows me to do, I'm definitely going to do.”</p>

🏈 TE Travis Kelce, franchised guard Trey Smith attend Chiefs minicamp

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas baseball senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135">Brady Counsell</a>&nbsp;was named a finalist for the 2025 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. I Gold Glove team, the American Baseball Coaches Association announced Monday. Counsell is the first player in program history to be a finalist for the award.

Counsell is one of three third basemen that were selected as finalists, along with Murf Gray from Fresno State and Nico Senese at Georgia Southern. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 18 via social media by Rawlings Sporting Goods.

An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2025, Counsell was a huge asset defensively for Kansas. Counsell posted a .992 fielding percentage by committing only one error in 121 chances. He provided versatility for the Jayhawks by starting games at third base, left field and second base. Counsell was involved in eight double plays, while having 69 putouts and 51 assists.

The ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove teams were first recognized in 2007 and are presented annually to the top defensive players from each division of collegiate and high school baseball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750188106960.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><i>Kansas Athletics</i></p><p>LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas baseball senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135">Brady Counsell</a>&nbsp;was named a finalist for the 2025 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. I Gold Glove team, the American Baseball Coaches Association announced Monday. Counsell is the first player in program history to be a finalist for the award.</p><p>Counsell is one of three third basemen that were selected as finalists, along with Murf Gray from Fresno State and Nico Senese at Georgia Southern. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 18 via social media by Rawlings Sporting Goods.</p><p>An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2025, Counsell was a huge asset defensively for Kansas. Counsell posted a .992 fielding percentage by committing only one error in 121 chances. He provided versatility for the Jayhawks by starting games at third base, left field and second base. Counsell was involved in eight double plays, while having 69 putouts and 51 assists.</p><p>The ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove teams were first recognized in 2007 and are presented annually to the top defensive players from each division of collegiate and high school baseball.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>