HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending NBC World Series champion Hutchinson Monarchs will host the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park Saturday night with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m.

The Monarchs are slated for 20 home games with all 20 games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Sean Boston will have the play-by-play call with Matt Peterson providing the video stream sponsored by Mid-Way Motors.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719836204125.png" alt="Game Day vs Bat Cats - July 6th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Game Day vs Bat Cats - July 6th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The defending NBC World Series champion Hutchinson Monarchs will host the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park Saturday night with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m.The Monarchs are slated for 20 home games with all 20 games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Sean Boston will have the play-by-play call with Matt Peterson providing the video stream sponsored by Mid-Way Motors.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1116215?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

⚾ Monarchs host Great Bend Bat Cats on Saturday

July 5: LHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/679156" target="_blank">Walter Pennington</a>&nbsp;selected from Triple-A Omaha; RHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/carlos-hernandez-672578" target="_blank">Carlos Hernández</a>&nbsp;optioned to Triple-A Omaha; RHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/656186" target="_blank">Dan Altavilla</a>&nbsp;transferred to 60-day injured list

In an effort to give their bullpen a fresh arm and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/walter-pennington-showing-potential-as-royals-take-notice" target="_blank">one of the top strike-throwers in the Minor Leagues</a>, the Royals promoted Pennington on Friday ahead of the series opener at Coors Field -- which just so happens to be 15 miles away from Pennington's hometown of Broomfield, Colo., and the home of the Rockies, the team Pennington grew up rooting for. Now, he's set to make his MLB debut sometime over the weekend.

"It's complete elation," Pennington said. "I grew up here. I was dreaming of being a professional baseball player, and it all started right here at this stadium. Now, making it come true is a dream come true."

Pennington played college baseball and graduated from the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colo., just 20 miles west of Coors Field. He went undrafted in 2020 -- when the Draft was five rounds -- and was signed by the Royals in August by Kansas area scout Matt Price after he saw Pennington pitch in an independent and summer ball tournament in Wichita.

Pennington steadily rose through the Royals' system and really burst onto the scene this year after an invite to big league Spring Training. In 32 games with Omaha this year, Pennington has a 2.35 ERA and 76 strikeouts in 53 2/3 innings.

"He's been really good against lefties," manager Matt Quatraro said. "He's been good against righties as well, and he can provide length. He's very versatile. … [Strike-throwing] is what we prioritize and stress getting guys ahead of hitters. And he's done that all year."

Pennington replaces Hernández, who has struggled to find the zone since he returned to Kansas City at the end of June. To make room of the 40-man roster for Pennington, the Royals transferred Altavilla to the 60-day IL as the righty recovers from an oblique/lat strain suffered on June 20.

July 5: INF&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/624428" target="_blank">Adam Frazier</a>&nbsp;reinstated from 10-day IL;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/680769" target="_blank">CJ Alexander</a>&nbsp;optioned to Triple-A OmahaAfter just one game on a rehab assignment, in which he went 0-for-4 with a strikeout for Double-A Northwest Arkansas, Frazier is back with the Royals and healed from his right thumb strain he suffered on June 22 in Texas.

Frazier wasn't in the lineup Friday because of lefty Kyle Freeland on the mound for the Rockies, but Quatraro said the veteran utilityman will be available off the bench and will see time playing second base, the outfield and as a pinch-hitter like he did before the injury.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239729221.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/royals-injuries-and-roster-moves">Via MLB.com</a>July 5: LHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/679156" target="_blank">Walter Pennington</a>&nbsp;selected from Triple-A Omaha; RHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/carlos-hernandez-672578" target="_blank">Carlos Hernández</a>&nbsp;optioned to Triple-A Omaha; RHP&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/656186" target="_blank">Dan Altavilla</a>&nbsp;transferred to 60-day injured listIn an effort to give their bullpen a fresh arm and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/walter-pennington-showing-potential-as-royals-take-notice" target="_blank">one of the top strike-throwers in the Minor Leagues</a>, the Royals promoted Pennington on Friday ahead of the series opener at Coors Field -- which just so happens to be 15 miles away from Pennington's hometown of Broomfield, Colo., and the home of the Rockies, the team Pennington grew up rooting for. Now, he's set to make his MLB debut sometime over the weekend."It's complete elation," Pennington said. "I grew up here. I was dreaming of being a professional baseball player, and it all started right here at this stadium. Now, making it come true is a dream come true."Pennington played college baseball and graduated from the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colo., just 20 miles west of Coors Field. He went undrafted in 2020 -- when the Draft was five rounds -- and was signed by the Royals in August by Kansas area scout Matt Price after he saw Pennington pitch in an independent and summer ball tournament in Wichita.Pennington steadily rose through the Royals' system and really burst onto the scene this year after an invite to big league Spring Training. In 32 games with Omaha this year, Pennington has a 2.35 ERA and 76 strikeouts in 53 2/3 innings."He's been really good against lefties," manager Matt Quatraro said. "He's been good against righties as well, and he can provide length. He's very versatile. … [Strike-throwing] is what we prioritize and stress getting guys ahead of hitters. And he's done that all year."Pennington replaces Hernández, who has struggled to find the zone since he returned to Kansas City at the end of June. To make room of the 40-man roster for Pennington, the Royals transferred Altavilla to the 60-day IL as the righty recovers from an oblique/lat strain suffered on June 20.July 5: INF&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/624428" target="_blank">Adam Frazier</a>&nbsp;reinstated from 10-day IL;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/680769" target="_blank">CJ Alexander</a>&nbsp;optioned to Triple-A OmahaAfter just one game on a rehab assignment, in which he went 0-for-4 with a strikeout for Double-A Northwest Arkansas, Frazier is back with the Royals and healed from his right thumb strain he suffered on June 22 in Texas.Frazier wasn't in the lineup Friday because of lefty Kyle Freeland on the mound for the Rockies, but Quatraro said the veteran utilityman will be available off the bench and will see time playing second base, the outfield and as a pinch-hitter like he did before the injury.

⚾ Royals make roster moves before weekend series

Anthony Volpe has one word for state of the skidding Yankees: `Brutal'

NEW YORK (AP) — A major league-best 49-21 through June 12, the New York Yankees are a big league-worst 5-15 since. The Yankees wasted a three-run lead against the Boston Red Sox in the latest deflating defeat when Masataka Yoshida hit a tying, two-run homer off Clay Holmes with two outs in the ninth inning and Ceddane Rafaela homered against Tommy Kahnle leading off the 10th. Boston's 5-3 win sent the Yankees to their 14th loss in 18 games, a slide that started at Fenway Park on June 15.

USA Basketball men's Olympic team arrives for camp in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (AP) — After months of planning, it's time for the U.S. Olympic team — one that will go to the Paris Games later this month seeking a fifth consecutive gold medal — to take the floor. The first practice for the squad is Saturday, the start of a four-day training camp before its exhibition opener against Canada on Wednesday. Players began arriving Thursday in Las Vegas; Stephen Curry was the first to check in for camp, perhaps underscoring how anxious he is for what will be his first Olympics. The 12 players have all known each other for years, but the task of becoming a team starts in earnest Saturday.

Merino last-gasp goal sends Spain to Euro 2024 semis after dramatic extra-time win over Germany

STUTTGART, Germany (AP) — Substitute Mikel Merino has headed Spain into the semifinals at the European Championship as his goal in the final minute of extra time saw La Roja snatch a 2-1 win over Germany and brought an end to Toni Kroos' career. Florian Wirtz's equaliser in the last minute had sent the intense quarterfinal between two of the best teams in the tournament to extra time. Dani Olmo netted the opener early in the second half. Spain defender Dani Carvajal was sent off late for a second yellow card and will be suspended for Tuesday's semifinal against Portugal or France. Fellow defender Robin le Normand will also miss the match after picking up a booking.

Ronaldo heading home as France beats Portugal 5-3 in a penalty shootout in Euro 2024 quarterfinals

HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — France has beaten Portugal 5-3 in a penalty shootout to reach the European Championship semifinals and end Cristiano Ronaldo's bid to win the title in his last appearance at the tournament. The game finished 0-0 following extra time and after Joao Felix hit a post with a penalty in the shootout, Theo Hernández converted the clinching kick. France had lost in penalty shootouts at its last two major tournaments — in the last 16 at the Euros in 2021 and in the 2022 World Cup final. The 39-year-old Ronaldo has said this will be his last European Championship. France will play Spain in the semifinals after its extra-time win over Germany in Stuttgart.

Canada beats Venezuela in extra round of penalty kicks, reaches semifinals in 1st Copa America

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Ismael Koné scored in the sixth round of the shootout after a third save by Maxime Crépeau and Canada advanced to the semifinals of its first Copa America with a victory over Venezuela. The Canadians won 4-3 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw in the quarterfinals. Jacob Shaffelburg scored in the 13th minute for Canada before Salomón Rondón got the equalizer in the 64th minute for Venezuela. The victory earned 48th-ranked Canada a rematch with Lionel Messi and Argentina on Tuesday night at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz comes back to beat Frances Tiafoe in the third round

LONDON (AP) — Defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz has come back to eliminate Frances Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-2 to reach the fourth round. The third-seeded Alcaraz was outplayed for stretches by No. 29 Tiafoe on Friday but improved to 12-1 for his career in fifth sets. Tiafoe fell to 6-13 in that category. Alcaraz will continue to pursue a second consecutive title at the All England Club and his fourth Grand Slam trophy overall. Tiafoe was not quite able to pull out what would have been a surprising victory for someone who arrived at Wimbledon with a sprained ligament in his right knee and a losing record this season.

Mother of big league Lowe brothers sees them face each other for 1st time since her cancer diagnosis

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — There is a Lowe family reunion this weekend in Texas. The mother of big league players Nathaniel and Josh is getting to watch her sons play against each other for the first time since being diagnosed with brain cancer last year. Wendy Lowe was unable to attend at Tampa Bay last October when Nathaniel Lowe and the Texas Rangers played against younger brother Josh and the Rays in an AL Wild Card playoff series. She was going through chemotherapy then. When the two teams met in Florida the first week this season, neither brother played because both were on the injured list.

Klay Thompson offers thoughtful farewell to Warriors, fans in Instagram post

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Klay Thompson offered a farewell message to the Bay Area and Golden State fans after departing the Warriors in free agency earlier this week to join the Dallas Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract. On Instagram, Thompson posted to his 17.1 million followers a photo of himself holding his new No. 11 jersey from after being drafted by the Warriors in 2011 with the 11th overall selection out of Washington State. The 34-year-old Thompson won four championships with the Warriors alongside Splash Brother Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

Pirates rookie Paul Skenes needed just 10 electrifying starts to enter the All-Star conversation

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes is putting together a resume worthy of an All-Star. Skenes improved to 5-0 with a 2.15 ERA after working seven strong innings in a victory over the New York Mets. The 22-year-old is the first pitcher in major league history to record at least seven strikeouts in nine of his first 10 starts. Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton says Skenes is entering the conversation for All-Star consideration.

Boxer Ryan Garcia apologizes for using racial slurs, says he is going to rehab

Boxer Ryan Garcia has apologized in a series of social media posts after he used racial slurs against Black people and disparaged Muslims in livestreamed comments. The 25-year-old Garcia was expelled by the World Boxing Council on Thursday over his remarks. He also announced Friday on the social media platform X that he was going to rehab. Last month, Garcia was suspended for a year by the New York State Athletic Commission, which also ruled that his April 20 victory over Devin Haney would be considered a no-contest after he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

		New York City FC	at	Austin FC	8:30 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, July 6th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Saturday, July 6th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Summary for July 6th, 2024:<div><iframe title="AP Sports Summary for July 6th, 2024" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=stf7k-165eed3-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>Anthony Volpe has one word for state of the skidding Yankees: `Brutal'NEW YORK (AP) — A major league-best 49-21 through June 12, the New York Yankees are a big league-worst 5-15 since. The Yankees wasted a three-run lead against the Boston Red Sox in the latest deflating defeat when Masataka Yoshida hit a tying, two-run homer off Clay Holmes with two outs in the ninth inning and Ceddane Rafaela homered against Tommy Kahnle leading off the 10th. Boston's 5-3 win sent the Yankees to their 14th loss in 18 games, a slide that started at Fenway Park on June 15.USA Basketball men's Olympic team arrives for camp in Las VegasLAS VEGAS (AP) — After months of planning, it's time for the U.S. Olympic team — one that will go to the Paris Games later this month seeking a fifth consecutive gold medal — to take the floor. The first practice for the squad is Saturday, the start of a four-day training camp before its exhibition opener against Canada on Wednesday. Players began arriving Thursday in Las Vegas; Stephen Curry was the first to check in for camp, perhaps underscoring how anxious he is for what will be his first Olympics. The 12 players have all known each other for years, but the task of becoming a team starts in earnest Saturday.Merino last-gasp goal sends Spain to Euro 2024 semis after dramatic extra-time win over GermanySTUTTGART, Germany (AP) — Substitute Mikel Merino has headed Spain into the semifinals at the European Championship as his goal in the final minute of extra time saw La Roja snatch a 2-1 win over Germany and brought an end to Toni Kroos' career. Florian Wirtz's equaliser in the last minute had sent the intense quarterfinal between two of the best teams in the tournament to extra time. Dani Olmo netted the opener early in the second half. Spain defender Dani Carvajal was sent off late for a second yellow card and will be suspended for Tuesday's semifinal against Portugal or France. Fellow defender Robin le Normand will also miss the match after picking up a booking.Ronaldo heading home as France beats Portugal 5-3 in a penalty shootout in Euro 2024 quarterfinalsHAMBURG, Germany (AP) — France has beaten Portugal 5-3 in a penalty shootout to reach the European Championship semifinals and end Cristiano Ronaldo's bid to win the title in his last appearance at the tournament. The game finished 0-0 following extra time and after Joao Felix hit a post with a penalty in the shootout, Theo Hernández converted the clinching kick. France had lost in penalty shootouts at its last two major tournaments — in the last 16 at the Euros in 2021 and in the 2022 World Cup final. The 39-year-old Ronaldo has said this will be his last European Championship. France will play Spain in the semifinals after its extra-time win over Germany in Stuttgart.Canada beats Venezuela in extra round of penalty kicks, reaches semifinals in 1st Copa AmericaARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Ismael Koné scored in the sixth round of the shootout after a third save by Maxime Crépeau and Canada advanced to the semifinals of its first Copa America with a victory over Venezuela. The Canadians won 4-3 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw in the quarterfinals. Jacob Shaffelburg scored in the 13th minute for Canada before Salomón Rondón got the equalizer in the 64th minute for Venezuela. The victory earned 48th-ranked Canada a rematch with Lionel Messi and Argentina on Tuesday night at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.Defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz comes back to beat Frances Tiafoe in the third roundLONDON (AP) — Defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz has come back to eliminate Frances Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (2), 6-2 to reach the fourth round. The third-seeded Alcaraz was outplayed for stretches by No. 29 Tiafoe on Friday but improved to 12-1 for his career in fifth sets. Tiafoe fell to 6-13 in that category. Alcaraz will continue to pursue a second consecutive title at the All England Club and his fourth Grand Slam trophy overall. Tiafoe was not quite able to pull out what would have been a surprising victory for someone who arrived at Wimbledon with a sprained ligament in his right knee and a losing record this season.Mother of big league Lowe brothers sees them face each other for 1st time since her cancer diagnosisARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — There is a Lowe family reunion this weekend in Texas. The mother of big league players Nathaniel and Josh is getting to watch her sons play against each other for the first time since being diagnosed with brain cancer last year. Wendy Lowe was unable to attend at Tampa Bay last October when Nathaniel Lowe and the Texas Rangers played against younger brother Josh and the Rays in an AL Wild Card playoff series. She was going through chemotherapy then. When the two teams met in Florida the first week this season, neither brother played because both were on the injured list.Klay Thompson offers thoughtful farewell to Warriors, fans in Instagram postSAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Klay Thompson offered a farewell message to the Bay Area and Golden State fans after departing the Warriors in free agency earlier this week to join the Dallas Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract. On Instagram, Thompson posted to his 17.1 million followers a photo of himself holding his new No. 11 jersey from after being drafted by the Warriors in 2011 with the 11th overall selection out of Washington State. The 34-year-old Thompson won four championships with the Warriors alongside Splash Brother Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.Pirates rookie Paul Skenes needed just 10 electrifying starts to enter the All-Star conversationPITTSBURGH (AP) — Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes is putting together a resume worthy of an All-Star. Skenes improved to 5-0 with a 2.15 ERA after working seven strong innings in a victory over the New York Mets. The 22-year-old is the first pitcher in major league history to record at least seven strikeouts in nine of his first 10 starts. Pittsburgh manager Derek Shelton says Skenes is entering the conversation for All-Star consideration.Boxer Ryan Garcia apologizes for using racial slurs, says he is going to rehabBoxer Ryan Garcia has apologized in a series of social media posts after he used racial slurs against Black people and disparaged Muslims in livestreamed comments. The 25-year-old Garcia was expelled by the World Boxing Council on Thursday over his remarks. He also announced Friday on the social media platform X that he was going to rehab. Last month, Garcia was suspended for a year by the New York State Athletic Commission, which also ruled that his April 20 victory over Devin Haney would be considered a no-contest after he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Chicago Cubs	5	L.A. Angels	1	Final	Detroit	5	Cincinnati	4	Final	Chicago White Sox	3	Miami	2	Final	San Francisco	4	Cleveland	2	Final	Colorado	4	Kansas City	2	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Boston	5	N.Y. Yankees	3	Final	Texas	3	Tampa Bay	0	Final	Houston	13	Minnesota	12	Final	Seattle	2	Toronto	1	Final	Baltimore	3	Oakland	2	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	14	N.Y. Mets	2	Final	St. Louis	7	Washington	6	Final	Philadelphia	8	Atlanta	6	Final	San Diego	10	Arizona	8	Final	L.A. Dodgers	8	Milwaukee	5	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Dallas	85	Atlanta	82	Final	Chicago	88	Seattle	84	Final OT	Los Angeles	98	Las Vegas	93	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		L-A Angels	at	Chi Cubs	2:20 p.m.			Chi White Sox	at	Miami	4:10 p.m.			Detroit	at	Cincinnati	4:10 p.m.			San Francisco	at	Cleveland	4:10 p.m.			Kansas City	at	Colorado	9:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Boston	at	N-Y Yankees	1:05 p.m.			Houston	at	Minnesota	2:10 p.m.			Tampa Bay	at	Texas	4:05 p.m.			Baltimore	at	Oakland	4:07 p.m.			Toronto	at	Seattle	4:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		N-Y Mets	at	Pittsburgh	4:05 p.m.			St. Louis	at	Washington	4:05 p.m.			Milwaukee	at	L-A Dodgers	7:15 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	Atlanta	7:15 p.m.			Arizona	at	San Diego	9:40 p.m.	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		New York	at	Indiana	1 p.m.			Washington	at	Minnesota	8 p.m.	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER		Miami	at	Cincinnati	7:30 p.m.			Toronto FC	at	Columbus	7:30 p.m.			Vancouver	at	CF Montréal	7:30 p.m.			D.C. United	at	Orlando City	7:30 p.m.			New York	at	Philadelphia	7:30 p.m.			New York City FC	at	Austin FC	8:30 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Real Salt Lake	9:30 p.m.			New England	at	Seattle	10:30 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Saturday

DENNIS GEORGATOS Associated Press

DENVER (AP) — Brenton Doyle broke an eighth-inning tie with a two-run double in the Colorado Rockies' 4-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.

Doyle finished with three hits, the tiebreaking double coming off reliever John Schreiber (3-3). Michael Toglia had a solo home run for Colorado that weathered a replay review.

“I knew the guy had a good sinker and sweeper, so I wanted to get something up in the zone,” Doyle said. “I took the first ball and was going to be pretty aggressive with the next pitch, just wanted it up in the zone, and I got it.”

The winning double was Doyle's seventh extra-base hit in his last four games, the most by a Colorado player in a four-game span since Charlie Blackmon also had seven from June 13-16, 2019. Doyle's batting average stands at .274, 71 points higher than his average at the end of last year, his first full season in the majors.

“When you’re producing, putting good swings on the baseball and finding barrels, you know this game can be a lot more fun and confidence can also raise with that. I’m in a good spot," said Doyle, who worked hard in the offseason fine-tuning his swing.

Salvador Perez had an RBI single and Freddy Fermin added three hits, including a single off Jalen Beeks leading off the ninth inning. Nick Loftin followed with a single before Beeks retired the next three batters for his eighth save. Victor Vodnik (2-1) worked a scoreless inning in relief for the victory.

The Royals went up 1-0 in the first inning when Bobby Witt Jr. doubled and scored an out later on a single by Perez.

Toglia connected on a 2-2 offering from Cole Ragans in the third inning, sending it the opposite way and just barely over the fence in left. Left fielder Dairon Blanco made a leaping attempt at the wall, his glove appearing to make glancing contact with the cupped hands of a fan who also tried to catch the ball. The ball dropped into the first row of the bleachers. The replay review upheld the home run call, ruling there was no conclusive evidence the spectator had interfered with Blanco in the field of play.

“I would have been pretty upset, like very upset actually,” Toglia said. “Because it’s not easy. But every one counts and I’m glad that one went my way.”

Ragans, though, had a replay review on a homer go against him for the second straight start. He also saw a home run call upheld in his last start against Cleveland when replay review could not determine whether a ball struck a metal support for netting before appearing to hit off the foul pole.

“At the end of the day, you just got to move on,” Ragans said. “It’s early in the game. It’s a 1-1 tie. ... It’s out of my hands. Nothing that I can do about it. Just got to move on and keep executing."

The Royals moved in front on an unearned run in the fourth inning, and the Rockies tied it at 2 in the sixth on Elias Díaz's RBI single.

Both starters turned in solid performances, with Ragans going seven innings and allowing two runs on five hits. He struck out eight but had four wild pitches, the most in a game by a pitcher this season. Colorado’s Kyle Freeland also went seven innings and allowed two runs — one earned — on seven hits.

Rockies RHP Germán Márquez is getting closer to returning from reconstructive elbow surgery. Márquez threw 69 pitches for Double-A Hartford on Thursday in his second rehab start, striking out two and walking one. He reached 99 mph with his fastball. “He came out of that fine,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “He’s healthy. He feels good.” Márquez, who underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2023, is expected to have one more rehab start Tuesday with Hartford and could rejoin the Rockies during their seven-game road trip next week that leads up to the All-Star break July 15-18.

Kansas City RHP Seth Lugo (11-2, 2.17 ERA), who’s tied for the major league lead in wins, was scheduled to start Saturday against LHP Austin Gomber (1-5, 4.72 ERA).

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>DENNIS GEORGATOS Associated PressDENVER (AP) — Brenton Doyle broke an eighth-inning tie with a two-run double in the Colorado Rockies' 4-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Friday night.Doyle finished with three hits, the tiebreaking double coming off reliever John Schreiber (3-3). Michael Toglia had a solo home run for Colorado that weathered a replay review.“I knew the guy had a good sinker and sweeper, so I wanted to get something up in the zone,” Doyle said. “I took the first ball and was going to be pretty aggressive with the next pitch, just wanted it up in the zone, and I got it.”The winning double was Doyle's seventh extra-base hit in his last four games, the most by a Colorado player in a four-game span since Charlie Blackmon also had seven from June 13-16, 2019. Doyle's batting average stands at .274, 71 points higher than his average at the end of last year, his first full season in the majors.“When you’re producing, putting good swings on the baseball and finding barrels, you know this game can be a lot more fun and confidence can also raise with that. I’m in a good spot," said Doyle, who worked hard in the offseason fine-tuning his swing.Salvador Perez had an RBI single and Freddy Fermin added three hits, including a single off Jalen Beeks leading off the ninth inning. Nick Loftin followed with a single before Beeks retired the next three batters for his eighth save. Victor Vodnik (2-1) worked a scoreless inning in relief for the victory.The Royals went up 1-0 in the first inning when Bobby Witt Jr. doubled and scored an out later on a single by Perez.Toglia connected on a 2-2 offering from Cole Ragans in the third inning, sending it the opposite way and just barely over the fence in left. Left fielder Dairon Blanco made a leaping attempt at the wall, his glove appearing to make glancing contact with the cupped hands of a fan who also tried to catch the ball. The ball dropped into the first row of the bleachers. The replay review upheld the home run call, ruling there was no conclusive evidence the spectator had interfered with Blanco in the field of play.Toglia was relieved by the decision.“I would have been pretty upset, like very upset actually,” Toglia said. “Because it’s not easy. But every one counts and I’m glad that one went my way.”Ragans, though, had a replay review on a homer go against him for the second straight start. He also saw a home run call upheld in his last start against Cleveland when replay review could not determine whether a ball struck a metal support for netting before appearing to hit off the foul pole.“At the end of the day, you just got to move on,” Ragans said. “It’s early in the game. It’s a 1-1 tie. ... It’s out of my hands. Nothing that I can do about it. Just got to move on and keep executing."The Royals moved in front on an unearned run in the fourth inning, and the Rockies tied it at 2 in the sixth on Elias Díaz's RBI single.Both starters turned in solid performances, with Ragans going seven innings and allowing two runs on five hits. He struck out eight but had four wild pitches, the most in a game by a pitcher this season. Colorado’s Kyle Freeland also went seven innings and allowed two runs — one earned — on seven hits.TRAINER’S ROOMRockies RHP Germán Márquez is getting closer to returning from reconstructive elbow surgery. Márquez threw 69 pitches for Double-A Hartford on Thursday in his second rehab start, striking out two and walking one. He reached 99 mph with his fastball. “He came out of that fine,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “He’s healthy. He feels good.” Márquez, who underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2023, is expected to have one more rehab start Tuesday with Hartford and could rejoin the Rockies during their seven-game road trip next week that leads up to the All-Star break July 15-18.UP NEXTKansas City RHP Seth Lugo (11-2, 2.17 ERA), who’s tied for the major league lead in wins, was scheduled to start Saturday against LHP Austin Gomber (1-5, 4.72 ERA).

⚾ Rockies beat Royals Friday

TULSA, Okla.—The Wichita Wind Surge technically lost twice, 5-4 and 7-0, against the Tulsa Drillers at ONEOK Field. Wichita dropped to 7-18 in one-run games in the first contest, a continued game that was suspended yesterday. They also got shut out for the fourth time this season in the following initially scheduled matchup.

Aaron Sabato&nbsp;didn’t waste any more time in the restarted contest from last night by slugging his ninth home run of the season, a solo shot, on a 3-0 fastball in the first at-bat of the top of the sixth to break the tie for a 2-1 lead. Austin Beck matched that feat as the leadoff man for Tulsa in the bottom half of the frame to put the game back into a deadlock at 2-2.

Tulsa loaded the bases in the bottom of the eighth by stringing a trio of singles against&nbsp;Travis Adams. Wichita’s righty struck out the following three batters to keep the game tied heading into the ninth.

Ben Ross&nbsp;then left the yard in left on a solo shot on the first pitch he saw to give the Wind Surge a 3-2 lead in the top of the ninth.&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;also lined a single up the middle to score Luke Keaschall from second, while Rucker got retired 8-2-6 trying to advance to second.

Taylor Young put the Drillers within one on an RBI double when they were down to their final out in the bottom of the ninth. Damon Keith then found the Tulsa bullpen in right-center with a walk-off two-run home run for a 5-4 Drillers win that technically began last night.

Game 2 began at 7 PM, with neither team putting up anything until the bottom of the fourth for the Drillers. Young scored from third on a third-strike wild pitch that bolted to the backstop. While Griffin Lockwood-Powell would work a walk to load the bases with one out in the inning,&nbsp;Marco Raya&nbsp;retired the following two hitters to get out of the jam.

Yeiner Fernandez doubled the Tulsa lead on his first home run of the season, a solo dinger, to right field an inning later in the last of the fifth. Wichita tried to work strategy by intentionally walking Keith to load the bases with one out; the next batter struck out swinging, and then Jose Ramos earned another free pass to bring home a third Drillers run. Lockwood-Powell singled to center and added three more after an error to make it 6-0 Tulsa.

Damon Keith singled to right field to score Alex Freeland after the stretch in the seventh for the final run of the night for the Drillers. The Wind Surge would get a pair of singles thanks to Rucker and McCusker two innings later in the ninth before a flyout ended the ballgame.

Adams took the loss in game one. Now, he’s at 4-6 in 2024 after giving up four earned runs on seven hits alongside six strikeouts in three and two-thirds innings. Raya is also 0-2 after the nightcap, surrendering four earned runs on five hits and two walks with seven outs in the first four innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720256852146.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TULSA, Okla.—The Wichita Wind Surge technically lost twice, 5-4 and 7-0, against the Tulsa Drillers at ONEOK Field. Wichita dropped to 7-18 in one-run games in the first contest, a continued game that was suspended yesterday. They also got shut out for the fourth time this season in the following initially scheduled matchup.Aaron Sabato&nbsp;didn’t waste any more time in the restarted contest from last night by slugging his ninth home run of the season, a solo shot, on a 3-0 fastball in the first at-bat of the top of the sixth to break the tie for a 2-1 lead. Austin Beck matched that feat as the leadoff man for Tulsa in the bottom half of the frame to put the game back into a deadlock at 2-2.Tulsa loaded the bases in the bottom of the eighth by stringing a trio of singles against&nbsp;Travis Adams. Wichita’s righty struck out the following three batters to keep the game tied heading into the ninth.Ben Ross&nbsp;then left the yard in left on a solo shot on the first pitch he saw to give the Wind Surge a 3-2 lead in the top of the ninth.&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;also lined a single up the middle to score Luke Keaschall from second, while Rucker got retired 8-2-6 trying to advance to second.Taylor Young put the Drillers within one on an RBI double when they were down to their final out in the bottom of the ninth. Damon Keith then found the Tulsa bullpen in right-center with a walk-off two-run home run for a 5-4 Drillers win that technically began last night.Game 2 began at 7 PM, with neither team putting up anything until the bottom of the fourth for the Drillers. Young scored from third on a third-strike wild pitch that bolted to the backstop. While Griffin Lockwood-Powell would work a walk to load the bases with one out in the inning,&nbsp;Marco Raya&nbsp;retired the following two hitters to get out of the jam.Yeiner Fernandez doubled the Tulsa lead on his first home run of the season, a solo dinger, to right field an inning later in the last of the fifth. Wichita tried to work strategy by intentionally walking Keith to load the bases with one out; the next batter struck out swinging, and then Jose Ramos earned another free pass to bring home a third Drillers run. Lockwood-Powell singled to center and added three more after an error to make it 6-0 Tulsa.Damon Keith singled to right field to score Alex Freeland after the stretch in the seventh for the final run of the night for the Drillers. The Wind Surge would get a pair of singles thanks to Rucker and McCusker two innings later in the ninth before a flyout ended the ballgame.Adams took the loss in game one. Now, he’s at 4-6 in 2024 after giving up four earned runs on seven hits alongside six strikeouts in three and two-thirds innings. Raya is also 0-2 after the nightcap, surrendering four earned runs on five hits and two walks with seven outs in the first four innings.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge drops suspended game and drops late contest

GREAT BEND, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs returned to action Friday night after having their game at Derby rained out and postponed on Wednesday.

Hutchinson defeated the Great Bend Bat Cats 10-3 at Al Burns park in Great Bend.

Details of that contest were unavailable from poinstreak or social media.

Next action for the Monarchs is a home game on Saturday versus the Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter field in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720256312196.jpeg" alt="Hutch Monarchs 10, Great Bend Bat Cats 3" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Monarchs 10, Great Bend Bat Cats 3</figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND, Kan. - The Hutchinson Monarchs returned to action Friday night after having their game at Derby rained out and postponed on Wednesday.Hutchinson defeated the Great Bend Bat Cats 10-3 at Al Burns park in Great Bend.Details of that contest were unavailable from poinstreak or social media.Next action for the Monarchs is a home game on Saturday versus the Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter field in Hutchinson.&nbsp;First pitch is scheduled for 7pm.

⚾ Hutch Monarchs win in Great Bend

The will to win has put Jayce Meyer on another level for starting pitchers. It’s also made him angry.

“As a pitcher, I would describe myself as being very intense and someone who throws with a little attitude,” the Maize South graduate said. “I like to pitch angry. For some people, if they try to pitch angry, they get too amped up and have a hard time focusing and throwing strikes. For me, when I bring some attitude and fire with me out to the mound, I feel like it unlocks a higher level of focus and makes me better. I throw with a lot of passion and I go out every time with one thing in my mind: I want to win.”

He gets razzed for his split personality.

“Some of my teammates like to tease me, because I am two different people: regular Jayce and pitching Jayce,” Meyer continued.“I have always been competitive, even when I am not in an active competition, but when I am not pitching, I am much more laid back, relaxed and have more of a ‘take it easy’ personality. When I step on the pitching mound, I become this person who is not only extremely competitive, but wants to absolutely dominate my competition. It is like flipping a switch.”

“I’ve known Jayce for 10 years and have played baseball with him for a good portion,” Maize South teammate Riley Reyes said. “Through those times I have had the honor to see Jayce grow as a pitcher/player and person. Jayce walks the lifestyle of bible verse Deuteronomy 31:6. In that verse it says ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.’ In so many ways Jayce shows his courageous nature by never giving up at what he wants to achieve in life.”

During games, Meyer noted, he doesn’t like to talk much.

“I stay as intense and focused as I can the entire time. There is a lot to be said about a pitcher’s presence on the mound. It changes the whole feel of the game. I want my team to know we are going to go out there and bring it,” Meyer said.

After his 2020 graduation from Maize South, Meyer signed with Division II’s Fort Hays State.

“I played there my freshman year, eventually working my way into a starting role, something I am still very proud of,” Meyer said. “My first start was against the University of Central Missouri, who was ranked in the top five teams in the nation in Division II baseball at the time. For my first college start, I feel like I did really well that game. I had a no-hitter going through the first four innings, and they got to me pretty good in the fifth inning.”

“I enjoyed my teammates, especially my roommate and fellow LHP, Dustin Menard, who remains one of my very best friends to this day,” Meyer said. “My cousin, Brett Meyer, was also a graduate assistant on the track team at Hays (who just finished competing in the Olympic Trials) which also contributed to me having a good experience in Hays. It was difficult, though, because we were not winning, which did create a stressful environment that season. After all of the successful teams I was on in high school, not winning was really difficult for me.”

“Jayce is a hard worker that is resilient in providing the work that is needed to MAKE his dreams come true no matter how bumpy the road looks like ahead,” Menard said. “A grown man with the passion for the game that is shown everyday that is unmatched to any kid on his first game of the season. Above all the remarkable effort and passion is a friend that will stand with you forever and always.”

Meyer transferred to Oklahoma Christian because of its baseball tradition and it was a Christian school.

“My faith is very important to me,” Meyer said. “And it was in arguably the best Division II baseball conference in the country. I got to pitch against the 2023 National Championship Team in Angelo State my junior year, along with other great teams like West Texas, UT Tyler and Lubbock Christian.”

At OCU, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound southpaw played with and against some extremely talented players, some of whom were actually taken in the MLB Draft. During his time there, he led the team with a 2.90 ERA his sophomore year and in opponent batting average of just .269. His junior year, he led the team in strikeouts per nine innings.

“I have some great memories. I made a few really good friends at OC in Kyle Higgins and Jayden Saylor,” Meyer noted. “But once again, winning was a struggle, which created a very divisive and negative environment among the team. The worst of it was that we were projected to be a very good team and we ended up finishing towards the bottom of our conference, which a lot of us were disappointed in.”

“Good teammates are far and few between when the meaning of good teammate is meant having one of your best friends as your throwing partner to give you the insight when it comes to how they think as a pitcher,” Higgins said. “Jayce went through each day of throwing with a plan to get better, running extra and making sure his pitches were fine tuned for the week ahead. Jayce is in attack mode as soon as he steps foot on the mound and taking the ball from him is easier said than done.”

Meyer’s journey next took him to Maryville, Mo.&nbsp;

“I was very fortunate to be able to join the team at Northwest Missouri State,” Meyer said. “After my experiences at FHSU and Oklahoma Christian, I wanted to find a team with a good team culture, somewhere with an experienced coach and a team with a chance to win.”

Coach Darin Loe, NW coach for nearly 30 years, made Meyer feel welcomed and needed right away.&nbsp;

“I had a strong fall and was really feeling the best that I ever had as a pitcher up to this point in my career. I was throwing consistently the hardest of my life and was able to spot up my off speed pitches really well,” Meyer said.

“I started feeling severe pain in my elbow,” Meyer said. “The doctor I saw ended up doing an ultra sound, and believed that the results along with my mild-seeming symptoms that it was just a sprain. I then sat out for six weeks, following a physical therapy program every day, and tried to begin throwing again through a throwing program.”

After getting back to 100%, the same pain and symptoms began to come back as they were before.&nbsp;

This time an MRI revealed a severe UCL tear. The only thing to do then was to get a full reconstruction of the UCL, Tommy John Surgery.

His surgery was this summer and performed by Dr Key, team doctor for the Royals. He will be in a brace the first two months of recovery. After four months, he can begin tossing again and at eight months start throwing bullpen. He should be 100% again in 10-12 months from the day of the surgery.

“I am 100% dedicated to my rehab and I fully expect to come back and not only to play one more season, but to be one of the best pitchers in my conference,” Meyer said. “I am keeping my dream alive of playing professional baseball, and fully intend on doing that, too.”

“I had the pleasure of being Jayce’s pitching coach in the summers during his high school years with 316 Baseball,” Bishop Carroll coach Brent Holman said. “I remember first seeing him play for another team and thinking how well his arm worked from the outfield, but what was most impressive was seeing his breaking ball when he came in to pitch. He carved us up! That team broke up, and he came to our tryout and still had that same nasty breaking ball. We won a lot of games over those three or four summers we were together.”

“I will make sure that I am stronger and improved in comparison before that time,” Meyer said. “But I plan on my career continuing long after 2026.”

“Jayce has shown me many years of courage and still does to this day; whether that’s rehabbing a UCL tear to be a guy other teammates can count on when the game needs him most, or to being a person who stands up for what he believes in whether he’s in the minority,” Reyes said. “He stands with God and walks with Him on his path even though it is a mystery and full of many of life’s challenges. To me, as a friend, teammate, and fellow Christian, I firmly believe that he fulfills the meaning of this verse.”

When it’s crunch time, Meyer wants to be the King of the Hill.&nbsp;

“I would say that being mentally tough and pitching in the most high-stakes situations are also two of my biggest strengths as a pitcher today,” Meyer said. “I love having the ball when the game is on the line. It is like a thrill you get when riding a roller coaster. I absolutely love it and believe that I can get it done every time.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720214244201.jpeg" alt="Jace Meyer" />
 <figcaption>Jace Meyer</figcaption>
 </figure>By Gary Van Cleave&nbsp;Special to hutchpost&nbsp;The will to win has put Jayce Meyer on another level for starting pitchers. It’s also made him angry.“As a pitcher, I would describe myself as being very intense and someone who throws with a little attitude,” the Maize South graduate said. “I like to pitch angry. For some people, if they try to pitch angry, they get too amped up and have a hard time focusing and throwing strikes. For me, when I bring some attitude and fire with me out to the mound, I feel like it unlocks a higher level of focus and makes me better. I throw with a lot of passion and I go out every time with one thing in my mind: I want to win.”He gets razzed for his split personality.“Some of my teammates like to tease me, because I am two different people: regular Jayce and pitching Jayce,” Meyer continued.“I have always been competitive, even when I am not in an active competition, but when I am not pitching, I am much more laid back, relaxed and have more of a ‘take it easy’ personality. When I step on the pitching mound, I become this person who is not only extremely competitive, but wants to absolutely dominate my competition. It is like flipping a switch.”“I’ve known Jayce for 10 years and have played baseball with him for a good portion,” Maize South teammate Riley Reyes said. “Through those times I have had the honor to see Jayce grow as a pitcher/player and person. Jayce walks the lifestyle of bible verse Deuteronomy 31:6. In that verse it says ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.’ In so many ways Jayce shows his courageous nature by never giving up at what he wants to achieve in life.”During games, Meyer noted, he doesn’t like to talk much.“I stay as intense and focused as I can the entire time. There is a lot to be said about a pitcher’s presence on the mound. It changes the whole feel of the game. I want my team to know we are going to go out there and bring it,” Meyer said.After his 2020 graduation from Maize South, Meyer signed with Division II’s Fort Hays State.“I played there my freshman year, eventually working my way into a starting role, something I am still very proud of,” Meyer said. “My first start was against the University of Central Missouri, who was ranked in the top five teams in the nation in Division II baseball at the time. For my first college start, I feel like I did really well that game. I had a no-hitter going through the first four innings, and they got to me pretty good in the fifth inning.”Meyer enjoyed his experience in Hays.“I enjoyed my teammates, especially my roommate and fellow LHP, Dustin Menard, who remains one of my very best friends to this day,” Meyer said. “My cousin, Brett Meyer, was also a graduate assistant on the track team at Hays (who just finished competing in the Olympic Trials) which also contributed to me having a good experience in Hays. It was difficult, though, because we were not winning, which did create a stressful environment that season. After all of the successful teams I was on in high school, not winning was really difficult for me.”“Jayce is a hard worker that is resilient in providing the work that is needed to MAKE his dreams come true no matter how bumpy the road looks like ahead,” Menard said. “A grown man with the passion for the game that is shown everyday that is unmatched to any kid on his first game of the season. Above all the remarkable effort and passion is a friend that will stand with you forever and always.”Meyer transferred to Oklahoma Christian because of its baseball tradition and it was a Christian school.“My faith is very important to me,” Meyer said. “And it was in arguably the best Division II baseball conference in the country. I got to pitch against the 2023 National Championship Team in Angelo State my junior year, along with other great teams like West Texas, UT Tyler and Lubbock Christian.”At OCU, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound southpaw played with and against some extremely talented players, some of whom were actually taken in the MLB Draft. During his time there, he led the team with a 2.90 ERA his sophomore year and in opponent batting average of just .269. His junior year, he led the team in strikeouts per nine innings.“I have some great memories. I made a few really good friends at OC in Kyle Higgins and Jayden Saylor,” Meyer noted. “But once again, winning was a struggle, which created a very divisive and negative environment among the team. The worst of it was that we were projected to be a very good team and we ended up finishing towards the bottom of our conference, which a lot of us were disappointed in.”“Good teammates are far and few between when the meaning of good teammate is meant having one of your best friends as your throwing partner to give you the insight when it comes to how they think as a pitcher,” Higgins said. “Jayce went through each day of throwing with a plan to get better, running extra and making sure his pitches were fine tuned for the week ahead. Jayce is in attack mode as soon as he steps foot on the mound and taking the ball from him is easier said than done.”Meyer’s journey next took him to Maryville, Mo.&nbsp;“I was very fortunate to be able to join the team at Northwest Missouri State,” Meyer said. “After my experiences at FHSU and Oklahoma Christian, I wanted to find a team with a good team culture, somewhere with an experienced coach and a team with a chance to win.”Coach Darin Loe, NW coach for nearly 30 years, made Meyer feel welcomed and needed right away.&nbsp;“I had a strong fall and was really feeling the best that I ever had as a pitcher up to this point in my career. I was throwing consistently the hardest of my life and was able to spot up my off speed pitches really well,” Meyer said.Then came winter break.“I started feeling severe pain in my elbow,” Meyer said. “The doctor I saw ended up doing an ultra sound, and believed that the results along with my mild-seeming symptoms that it was just a sprain. I then sat out for six weeks, following a physical therapy program every day, and tried to begin throwing again through a throwing program.”After getting back to 100%, the same pain and symptoms began to come back as they were before.&nbsp;This time an MRI revealed a severe UCL tear. The only thing to do then was to get a full reconstruction of the UCL, Tommy John Surgery.His surgery was this summer and performed by Dr Key, team doctor for the Royals. He will be in a brace the first two months of recovery. After four months, he can begin tossing again and at eight months start throwing bullpen. He should be 100% again in 10-12 months from the day of the surgery.“I am 100% dedicated to my rehab and I fully expect to come back and not only to play one more season, but to be one of the best pitchers in my conference,” Meyer said. “I am keeping my dream alive of playing professional baseball, and fully intend on doing that, too.”“I had the pleasure of being Jayce’s pitching coach in the summers during his high school years with 316 Baseball,” Bishop Carroll coach Brent Holman said. “I remember first seeing him play for another team and thinking how well his arm worked from the outfield, but what was most impressive was seeing his breaking ball when he came in to pitch. He carved us up! That team broke up, and he came to our tryout and still had that same nasty breaking ball. We won a lot of games over those three or four summers we were together.”Meyer is hungry for 2026.“I will make sure that I am stronger and improved in comparison before that time,” Meyer said. “But I plan on my career continuing long after 2026.”“Jayce has shown me many years of courage and still does to this day; whether that’s rehabbing a UCL tear to be a guy other teammates can count on when the game needs him most, or to being a person who stands up for what he believes in whether he’s in the minority,” Reyes said. “He stands with God and walks with Him on his path even though it is a mystery and full of many of life’s challenges. To me, as a friend, teammate, and fellow Christian, I firmly believe that he fulfills the meaning of this verse.”When it’s crunch time, Meyer wants to be the King of the Hill.&nbsp;“I would say that being mentally tough and pitching in the most high-stakes situations are also two of my biggest strengths as a pitcher today,” Meyer said. “I love having the ball when the game is on the line. It is like a thrill you get when riding a roller coaster. I absolutely love it and believe that I can get it done every time.”

⚾ Maize South grad loves pitching angry

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, July 5th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Friday, July 5th, 2024</figcaption>
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🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Tampa edges Royals in high scoring game; ⚾ Wichita Wind Surge and Drillers tied in suspended game

TULSA, Okla.—The Wichita Wind Surge is in a 1-1 game at ONEOK Field against the Tulsa Drillers, which will resume tomorrow at 4:30 PM.

While the Wind Surge had men on base in the first three innings, they got their first run in the top of the fourth on a&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;solo home run to the batter’s eye in center field. McCusker is now up to six home runs on the season and carries a team-leading 11-game on-base streak.

Rain started to pelter down in Tulsa; Yeiner Fernandez lined a two-out single into left-center, then Alex Freeland doubled over&nbsp;Kyler Fedko&nbsp;to the center field wall, allowing Fernandez to get the wave and score from first to tie the game in the bottom of the fifth before a rain delay got put into effect after&nbsp;Jaylen Nowlin&nbsp;fielded a comebacker and underhand tossed the ball to first baseman&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;for the final out. The game then was suspended due to unplayable field conditions until Friday at 4:30 PM where the contest will resume.

The Wind Surge will continue their series tomorrow against the Tulsa Drillers on Friday, July 5, at ONEOK Field, with the second previously scheduled game shortly after the first suspended contest ends. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>, or watch them online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720178217732.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Wind Surge vs Drillers game suspended and will resume today at 4:40pm." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Wind Surge vs Drillers game suspended and will resume today at 4:40pm.</figcaption>
 </figure>TULSA, Okla.—The Wichita Wind Surge is in a 1-1 game at ONEOK Field against the Tulsa Drillers, which will resume tomorrow at 4:30 PM.While the Wind Surge had men on base in the first three innings, they got their first run in the top of the fourth on a&nbsp;Carson McCusker&nbsp;solo home run to the batter’s eye in center field. McCusker is now up to six home runs on the season and carries a team-leading 11-game on-base streak.Rain started to pelter down in Tulsa; Yeiner Fernandez lined a two-out single into left-center, then Alex Freeland doubled over&nbsp;Kyler Fedko&nbsp;to the center field wall, allowing Fernandez to get the wave and score from first to tie the game in the bottom of the fifth before a rain delay got put into effect after&nbsp;Jaylen Nowlin&nbsp;fielded a comebacker and underhand tossed the ball to first baseman&nbsp;Aaron Sabato&nbsp;for the final out. The game then was suspended due to unplayable field conditions until Friday at 4:30 PM where the contest will resume.The Wind Surge will continue their series tomorrow against the Tulsa Drillers on Friday, July 5, at ONEOK Field, with the second previously scheduled game shortly after the first suspended contest ends. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>, or watch them online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge game suspended tied at 1-1 in Tulsa

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonny DeLuca and Brandon Lowe homered, eight Rays players drove in runs, and Tampa Bay beat the Kansas City Royals 10-8. Zach Eflin earned the win, allowing six runs and five earned on seven hits and a walk over five innings. Alec Marsh took the loss for Kansas City, allowing five runs on six hits and three walks in just three innings. Michael Massey homered and Vinnie Pasquantino drove in a pair of runs for the Royals, who trailed 9-4 before scoring three times in the sixth. Bobby Witt Jr. was thrown out to end the rally, and the Royals never seriously threatened again.

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pedro Pages doubled home pinch runner Michael Siani and then scored on Alec Burleson’s RBI single as the the St. Louis Cardinals edged the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 in 10 innings. St. Louis took two of three from its NL Central Division rivals by winning a series finale for the 12th time in its last 13 chances. Burleson and Dylan Carlson had two hits apiece for the Cardinals. John King retired Andrew McCutchen with the tying run on second in the 10th to pick up the victory for St. Louis, which improved to 30-17 since May 12.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Arizona Diamondbacks slugger Christian Walker continued his Dodger Stadium rampage Thursday, homering in his first two at-bats for his 18th and 19th home runs in 42 career games at the ballpark. He has homered in five consecutive games at the third-oldest ballpark in the majors, tying the longest single-season streak at the stadium with teammate Joc Pederson, who did it in 2015 with Los Angeles. Pederson and Walker went back-to-back with two outs in the first off rookie Landon Knack, with Walker’s blast going 435 feet to center. After Pederson walked with two outs in the third, Walker followed with a two-run homer to left off Knack to give Arizona 4-0 lead in the 9-3 victory. Walker had five homers in the three-game series.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Steven Kwan isn’t just at the top of Cleveland’s lineup. He’s No. 1 in the majors. The All-Star left fielder is baseball’s leading hitter and on Saturday he homered, collected another three-hit game and drove in two runs in the Guardians’ 8-4 win over the Chicago White Sox. While he’s been hitting over .350 for much of the season, Kwan didn’t have enough plate appearances to officially rank on the MLB leaderboard after missing a month with a hamstring injury. He qualifies now and his .367 average is 48 points ahead of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani (.319) for the major league lead.

NEW YORK (AP) — Graham Ashcraft and the Cincinnati Reds won a stare down with the New York Yankees even before finishing their three-game sweep. When the national anthem ended ahead of Thursday’s game, Ashcraft and fellow Reds pitcher Carson Spiers remained in front of the visitors’ dugout on the third-base side of Yankee Stadium while New York pitchers Ian Hamilton and Cody Poteet held out on the first-base side. Their showdown extended for more than five minutes as players ignored gestures from the umpires. Ashcroft won the battle, pumping a fist and getting high-fives and cheers from teammates before the Reds’ 8-4 win Thursday.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Buddy Hield played in 632 regular-season games and established himself as one of the top 3-point shooters in the NBA before he finally played a postseason game. He can thank the Philadelphia 76ers for ending his dubious distinction of most NBA games without a playoff appearance. If he wants to get there again, he’s going to have to try in California. The Sixers continued a busy offseason by orchestrating a sign-and-trade deal that sends Hield to the Golden State Warriors for a 2031 second-round draft pick it received from the Dallas Mavericks, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. ESPN reported that Hield was set to sign a two-year, $21 million deal with the Warriors. They lost Klay Thompson to the Mavs.

HOUSTON (AP) — Defending champion Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals, beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw after conceding a tying goal in second-half injury time. Lionel Messi put Argentina’s first penalty kick off the crossbar but goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez saved Ecuador’s first two attempts in the shootout and Nicolás Otamendi beat Alexander Domínguez with the winning kick. Lisandro Martínez have Argentina a 35th-minute lead, but Kevin Rodríguez scored the score in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. Ecuador’s Enner Valencia had put a penalty kick off a post in the 60th minute after a hand ball by Rodrigo De Paul.

HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — Kylian Mbappé has described Cristiano Ronaldo as a “footballing legend” and “one of a kind” as the superstars prepare to meet in the European Championship quarterfinals. One of the major subplots of the Portugal vs. France match in Hamburg on Friday is the head to head between their captains. Mbappé has previously called Ronaldo his idol and he has spoken in glowing terms about the 39-year-old striker who has said he is playing in his last European Championship. Mbappé says “There is only one Cristiano Ronaldo, there will only ever be one." Mbappé doesn't see the match as a “passing-of-the-baton” occasion because “I am following my own path.”

SILVIS, Ill. (AP) — Hayden Springer has posted the 14th sub-60 round in PGA Tour history. Springer holed out for eagle from 55 yards on the 17th hole at the John Deere Classic and finished with a 12-foot birdie for golf's magic number. It was the second 59 on the PGA Tour in three weeks. Cameron Young also shot 59 at the Travelers Championship. Springer will have to settle for a share of the course record at the TPC Deere Run. Paul Goydos also shot 59 in the John Deere Classic in 2010. Springer's was the eighth sub-60 round in golf worldwide this year.

LONDON (AP) — The good news for Novak Djokovic is that his surgically repaired right knee has been feeling pain-free at Wimbledon. The bad news is that his movement was not yet back to normal during a 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 victory in the second round over Jacob Fearnley on Thursday. Fearnley is a 22-year-old from Scotland who played college tennis in the United States. Djokovic knows he needs to get around the court better if he is going to contend for the title, the only reason he is back competing so soon after tearing his meniscus. Other winners included No. 1 Iga Swiatek, but No. 5 Jessica Pegula lost and No. 7 Hubert Hurkacz needed to stop because he hurt his knee.

LONDON (AP) — Andy Murray and his older brother, Jamie, have lost in the first round of doubles at Wimbledon. Thursday's match at Centre Court was the first step in Murray's farewell tour at the All England Club. The Murrays lost 7-6 (6), 6-4 to Rinky Hijikata and John Peers. Andy Murray has said he will retire after playing at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics. He is 37 and had surgery last month to remove a cyst from his back. He is also entered in mixed doubles with Emma Raducanu.

GENEVA (AP) — The international swimming federation says its executive director has been ordered to testify as a witness in a U.S. criminal investigation into the case of 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for a banned substance in 2021 yet were allowed to continue competing. World Aquatics confirmed to The Associated Press that Brent Nowicki “was served with a witness subpoena by the United States government.” In May, a House Committee on China asked the Justice Department and the FBI to launch an investigation under a federal law that allows investigations into suspected doping conspiracies even if they occurred outside the U.S. The swimmers were allowed to compete at the previous Olympics in Tokyo despite testing positive for a banned heart medication.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for July 5th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for July 5th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="AP Sports for July 5th, 2024" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j5jvf-165de37-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonny DeLuca and Brandon Lowe homered, eight Rays players drove in runs, and Tampa Bay beat the Kansas City Royals 10-8. Zach Eflin earned the win, allowing six runs and five earned on seven hits and a walk over five innings. Alec Marsh took the loss for Kansas City, allowing five runs on six hits and three walks in just three innings. Michael Massey homered and Vinnie Pasquantino drove in a pair of runs for the Royals, who trailed 9-4 before scoring three times in the sixth. Bobby Witt Jr. was thrown out to end the rally, and the Royals never seriously threatened again.PITTSBURGH (AP) — Pedro Pages doubled home pinch runner Michael Siani and then scored on Alec Burleson’s RBI single as the the St. Louis Cardinals edged the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 in 10 innings. St. Louis took two of three from its NL Central Division rivals by winning a series finale for the 12th time in its last 13 chances. Burleson and Dylan Carlson had two hits apiece for the Cardinals. John King retired Andrew McCutchen with the tying run on second in the 10th to pick up the victory for St. Louis, which improved to 30-17 since May 12.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Arizona Diamondbacks slugger Christian Walker continued his Dodger Stadium rampage Thursday, homering in his first two at-bats for his 18th and 19th home runs in 42 career games at the ballpark. He has homered in five consecutive games at the third-oldest ballpark in the majors, tying the longest single-season streak at the stadium with teammate Joc Pederson, who did it in 2015 with Los Angeles. Pederson and Walker went back-to-back with two outs in the first off rookie Landon Knack, with Walker’s blast going 435 feet to center. After Pederson walked with two outs in the third, Walker followed with a two-run homer to left off Knack to give Arizona 4-0 lead in the 9-3 victory. Walker had five homers in the three-game series.CLEVELAND (AP) — Steven Kwan isn’t just at the top of Cleveland’s lineup. He’s No. 1 in the majors. The All-Star left fielder is baseball’s leading hitter and on Saturday he homered, collected another three-hit game and drove in two runs in the Guardians’ 8-4 win over the Chicago White Sox. While he’s been hitting over .350 for much of the season, Kwan didn’t have enough plate appearances to officially rank on the MLB leaderboard after missing a month with a hamstring injury. He qualifies now and his .367 average is 48 points ahead of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani (.319) for the major league lead.NEW YORK (AP) — Graham Ashcraft and the Cincinnati Reds won a stare down with the New York Yankees even before finishing their three-game sweep. When the national anthem ended ahead of Thursday’s game, Ashcraft and fellow Reds pitcher Carson Spiers remained in front of the visitors’ dugout on the third-base side of Yankee Stadium while New York pitchers Ian Hamilton and Cody Poteet held out on the first-base side. Their showdown extended for more than five minutes as players ignored gestures from the umpires. Ashcroft won the battle, pumping a fist and getting high-fives and cheers from teammates before the Reds’ 8-4 win Thursday.PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Buddy Hield played in 632 regular-season games and established himself as one of the top 3-point shooters in the NBA before he finally played a postseason game. He can thank the Philadelphia 76ers for ending his dubious distinction of most NBA games without a playoff appearance. If he wants to get there again, he’s going to have to try in California. The Sixers continued a busy offseason by orchestrating a sign-and-trade deal that sends Hield to the Golden State Warriors for a 2031 second-round draft pick it received from the Dallas Mavericks, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. ESPN reported that Hield was set to sign a two-year, $21 million deal with the Warriors. They lost Klay Thompson to the Mavs.HOUSTON (AP) — Defending champion Argentina advanced to the Copa America semifinals, beating Ecuador 4-2 on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw after conceding a tying goal in second-half injury time. Lionel Messi put Argentina’s first penalty kick off the crossbar but goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez saved Ecuador’s first two attempts in the shootout and Nicolás Otamendi beat Alexander Domínguez with the winning kick. Lisandro Martínez have Argentina a 35th-minute lead, but Kevin Rodríguez scored the score in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. Ecuador’s Enner Valencia had put a penalty kick off a post in the 60th minute after a hand ball by Rodrigo De Paul.HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — Kylian Mbappé has described Cristiano Ronaldo as a “footballing legend” and “one of a kind” as the superstars prepare to meet in the European Championship quarterfinals. One of the major subplots of the Portugal vs. France match in Hamburg on Friday is the head to head between their captains. Mbappé has previously called Ronaldo his idol and he has spoken in glowing terms about the 39-year-old striker who has said he is playing in his last European Championship. Mbappé says “There is only one Cristiano Ronaldo, there will only ever be one." Mbappé doesn't see the match as a “passing-of-the-baton” occasion because “I am following my own path.”SILVIS, Ill. (AP) — Hayden Springer has posted the 14th sub-60 round in PGA Tour history. Springer holed out for eagle from 55 yards on the 17th hole at the John Deere Classic and finished with a 12-foot birdie for golf's magic number. It was the second 59 on the PGA Tour in three weeks. Cameron Young also shot 59 at the Travelers Championship. Springer will have to settle for a share of the course record at the TPC Deere Run. Paul Goydos also shot 59 in the John Deere Classic in 2010. Springer's was the eighth sub-60 round in golf worldwide this year.LONDON (AP) — The good news for Novak Djokovic is that his surgically repaired right knee has been feeling pain-free at Wimbledon. The bad news is that his movement was not yet back to normal during a 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 victory in the second round over Jacob Fearnley on Thursday. Fearnley is a 22-year-old from Scotland who played college tennis in the United States. Djokovic knows he needs to get around the court better if he is going to contend for the title, the only reason he is back competing so soon after tearing his meniscus. Other winners included No. 1 Iga Swiatek, but No. 5 Jessica Pegula lost and No. 7 Hubert Hurkacz needed to stop because he hurt his knee.LONDON (AP) — Andy Murray and his older brother, Jamie, have lost in the first round of doubles at Wimbledon. Thursday's match at Centre Court was the first step in Murray's farewell tour at the All England Club. The Murrays lost 7-6 (6), 6-4 to Rinky Hijikata and John Peers. Andy Murray has said he will retire after playing at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics. He is 37 and had surgery last month to remove a cyst from his back. He is also entered in mixed doubles with Emma Raducanu.GENEVA (AP) — The international swimming federation says its executive director has been ordered to testify as a witness in a U.S. criminal investigation into the case of 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for a banned substance in 2021 yet were allowed to continue competing. World Aquatics confirmed to The Associated Press that Brent Nowicki “was served with a witness subpoena by the United States government.” In May, a House Committee on China asked the Justice Department and the FBI to launch an investigation under a federal law that allows investigations into suspected doping conspiracies even if they occurred outside the U.S. The swimmers were allowed to compete at the previous Olympics in Tokyo despite testing positive for a banned heart medication.THURSDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal Cincinnati 8 N.Y. Yankees 4Final Boston 6 Miami 5Final San Diego 3 Texas 1AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Minnesota 12 Detroit 3Final Houston 5 Toronto 3Final Cleveland 8 Chicago White Sox 4Final Oakland 5 L.A. Angels 0Final Seattle 7 Baltimore 3Final Tampa Bay 10 Kansas City 8NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Washington 1 N.Y. Mets 0Final St. Louis 3 Pittsburgh 2Final Chicago Cubs 10 Philadelphia 2Final San Francisco 4 Atlanta 2

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Jonny DeLuca and Brandon Lowe homered, eight Rays players drove in runs, and Tampa Bay pounced on some erratic Kansas City pitching to squeak out a 10-8 victory over the Royals on Thursday night.

Zach Eflin (5-5), riding a 10-inning scoreless streak coming into the game, allowed six runs — five earned — and seven hits with a walk over five innings. That was still good enough to pick up his first win in his last five road starts.

“The offense was tremendous tonight,” Eflin said. “They carried us.”

Alec Marsh (6-6) allowed five runs and six hits with three walks in just three innings. The Kansas City bullpen fared no better as five relievers combined to allow five more runs, 10 hits and five walks.

“It was a game of adjustments and I wasn't able to make them,” Marsh said. “Feels like you're battling yourself out there.”

Michael Massey and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who trailed 9-4 before scoring three times in the sixth inning. The rally ended when Witt — representing the potential tying run — was thrown out trying to steal second.

Pete Fairbanks surrendered Witt's solo homer in the ninth before picking up his 14th save.

“They kept going, getting big hits after big hits,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said, “but it felt like when we really needed a play, we made it.”

Marsh struggled with his command from the start, walking Richie Palacios on four pitches and Isaac Paredes on a full-count to start the game — both eventually scored. DeLuca homered in the second and Palacios added an RBI single for a 4-0 lead.

The Royals got a run back on Massey's homer in the second. And after Tampa Bay restored a four-run lead on DeLuca's single in the third, Witt hit a sacrifice fly and Pasquantino an RBI single to get Kansas City to 5-3.

Carlos Hernandez didn't have much better command than Marsh for Kansas City. He walked the bases loaded to begin the fifth, and Taylor Walls and Ben Rortvedt made sure all three runners scored, extending the Tampa Bay lead.

The Rays hung on the rest of the way for their fifth straight series win.

“We got a lot of big hits. We had a lot of big at-bats, tough matchups,” said Cash, whose club has won 11 of its last 16 games to leave Kansas City above .500 at 43-42. “There were a lot of guys who contributed offensively.”

Massey played the field for the first time since May 24, when a lower back issue forced him onto the injured list. He had been limited to DH duties since returning to the club on June 24. ... Royals INF/OF Adam Frazier (right thumb strain) began what is expected to be a short rehab stint at Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Friday night.

The Rays have not announced a starter for Friday night's series-opener at Texas, though RHP Shane Baz is expected to get the ball in place of Aaron Civale, who was traded to the Brewers earlier this week. Baz missed last season after Tommy John surgery, but he's been dominant at Triple-A Durham, compiling a 1.57 ERA over his last five outings.

The Royals begin a nine-game trip leading into the All-Star break with the first of three in Colorado on Friday night. RHP Cole Ragans (5-6, 3.33) will try to bounce back from a shaky outing last Saturday against Cleveland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Jonny DeLuca and Brandon Lowe homered, eight Rays players drove in runs, and Tampa Bay pounced on some erratic Kansas City pitching to squeak out a 10-8 victory over the Royals on Thursday night.Zach Eflin (5-5), riding a 10-inning scoreless streak coming into the game, allowed six runs — five earned — and seven hits with a walk over five innings. That was still good enough to pick up his first win in his last five road starts.“The offense was tremendous tonight,” Eflin said. “They carried us.”Alec Marsh (6-6) allowed five runs and six hits with three walks in just three innings. The Kansas City bullpen fared no better as five relievers combined to allow five more runs, 10 hits and five walks.“It was a game of adjustments and I wasn't able to make them,” Marsh said. “Feels like you're battling yourself out there.”Michael Massey and Bobby Witt Jr. homered for the Royals, who trailed 9-4 before scoring three times in the sixth inning. The rally ended when Witt — representing the potential tying run — was thrown out trying to steal second.Pete Fairbanks surrendered Witt's solo homer in the ninth before picking up his 14th save.“They kept going, getting big hits after big hits,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said, “but it felt like when we really needed a play, we made it.”Marsh struggled with his command from the start, walking Richie Palacios on four pitches and Isaac Paredes on a full-count to start the game — both eventually scored. DeLuca homered in the second and Palacios added an RBI single for a 4-0 lead.The Royals got a run back on Massey's homer in the second. And after Tampa Bay restored a four-run lead on DeLuca's single in the third, Witt hit a sacrifice fly and Pasquantino an RBI single to get Kansas City to 5-3.Carlos Hernandez didn't have much better command than Marsh for Kansas City. He walked the bases loaded to begin the fifth, and Taylor Walls and Ben Rortvedt made sure all three runners scored, extending the Tampa Bay lead.The Rays hung on the rest of the way for their fifth straight series win.“We got a lot of big hits. We had a lot of big at-bats, tough matchups,” said Cash, whose club has won 11 of its last 16 games to leave Kansas City above .500 at 43-42. “There were a lot of guys who contributed offensively.”TRAINER'S ROOMMassey played the field for the first time since May 24, when a lower back issue forced him onto the injured list. He had been limited to DH duties since returning to the club on June 24. ... Royals INF/OF Adam Frazier (right thumb strain) began what is expected to be a short rehab stint at Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Friday night.UP NEXTThe Rays have not announced a starter for Friday night's series-opener at Texas, though RHP Shane Baz is expected to get the ball in place of Aaron Civale, who was traded to the Brewers earlier this week. Baz missed last season after Tommy John surgery, but he's been dominant at Triple-A Durham, compiling a 1.57 ERA over his last five outings.The Royals begin a nine-game trip leading into the All-Star break with the first of three in Colorado on Friday night. RHP Cole Ragans (5-6, 3.33) will try to bounce back from a shaky outing last Saturday against Cleveland.

⚾ Rays win over Royals on 4th of July

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas stars Mario Chalmers and Sherron Collins are among 16 former men’s college basketball players who have sued the NCAA and multiple conferences, claiming they are profiting from the unauthorized use of their names, images and likenesses in promoting and monetizing the March Madness tournament.

Chalmers hit a 3-pointer with 2.1 seconds left to force overtime in the 2008 national championship game against Memphis on the way to the title. The lawsuit says the NCAA and Turner Sports Interactive – another defendant – have profited from replaying Chalmers’ shot without paying him.

The Big East, Pac-12, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC and ACC also are defendants in the class-action lawsuit, filed Monday in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York.

“The NCAA has conspired with conferences, colleges, licensing companies, and apparel companies to fix the price of student-athlete labor near zero and make student-athletes unwitting and uncompensated lifetime pitchmen for the NCAA,” the lawsuit states.

The suit said March Madness generates close to $1 billion in annual revenue for the NCAA, but none has gone to the plaintiffs, who are seeking unspecified damages.

“The NCAA’s illegal conduct has damaged plaintiffs by diminishing their opportunity to maximize their compensation for their publicity rights, including their rights related to images related to the most profitable portion of NCAA’s revenue, basketball,” the suit says. “The full amount of this damage is currently unknown, and it continues to increase as the NCAA and its affiliates and co-conspirators continue to profit from the NCAA’s ongoing, uninterrupted usurpation of plaintiffs’ and class members publicity rights.”

An NCAA spokesperson declined comment Wednesday. The organization is already facing a number of federal lawsuits challenging its longstanding amateurism model and the case comes amidst dramatic changes that cleared the way for compensation of athletes.

A 2021 decision by the NCAA to allow athletes to earn endorsement money opened the door for millions of dollars in spending that has, among other things, changed how schools and donor-backed efforts target recruits. In May, the NCAA and the nation’s five biggest conferences agreed to pay nearly $2.8 billion to settle a host of antitrust claims, setting the stage for a revenue-sharing model that would send millions of dollars directly to athletes as soon as next year.

Other plaintiffs include Ryan Boatright (Connecticut), A.J. Bramlett, Eugene Edgerson and Jason Terry (Arizona), James Cunningham (Arizona State and Tulsa), Alex Oriakhi (Connecticut and Missouri) and Matt Pressey (Missouri).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716518230646.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas stars Mario Chalmers and Sherron Collins are among 16 former men’s college basketball players who have sued the NCAA and multiple conferences, claiming they are profiting from the unauthorized use of their names, images and likenesses in promoting and monetizing the March Madness tournament.Chalmers hit a 3-pointer with 2.1 seconds left to force overtime in the 2008 national championship game against Memphis on the way to the title. The lawsuit says the NCAA and Turner Sports Interactive – another defendant – have profited from replaying Chalmers’ shot without paying him.The Big East, Pac-12, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC and ACC also are defendants in the class-action lawsuit, filed Monday in the U.S. District Court in the Southern District of New York.“The NCAA has conspired with conferences, colleges, licensing companies, and apparel companies to fix the price of student-athlete labor near zero and make student-athletes unwitting and uncompensated lifetime pitchmen for the NCAA,” the lawsuit states.The suit said March Madness generates close to $1 billion in annual revenue for the NCAA, but none has gone to the plaintiffs, who are seeking unspecified damages.“The NCAA’s illegal conduct has damaged plaintiffs by diminishing their opportunity to maximize their compensation for their publicity rights, including their rights related to images related to the most profitable portion of NCAA’s revenue, basketball,” the suit says. “The full amount of this damage is currently unknown, and it continues to increase as the NCAA and its affiliates and co-conspirators continue to profit from the NCAA’s ongoing, uninterrupted usurpation of plaintiffs’ and class members publicity rights.”An NCAA spokesperson declined comment Wednesday. The organization is already facing a number of federal lawsuits challenging its longstanding amateurism model and the case comes amidst dramatic changes that cleared the way for compensation of athletes.A 2021 decision by the NCAA to allow athletes to earn endorsement money opened the door for millions of dollars in spending that has, among other things, changed how schools and donor-backed efforts target recruits. In May, the NCAA and the nation’s five biggest conferences agreed to pay nearly $2.8 billion to settle a host of antitrust claims, setting the stage for a revenue-sharing model that would send millions of dollars directly to athletes as soon as next year.Other plaintiffs include Ryan Boatright (Connecticut), A.J. Bramlett, Eugene Edgerson and Jason Terry (Arizona), James Cunningham (Arizona State and Tulsa), Alex Oriakhi (Connecticut and Missouri) and Matt Pressey (Missouri).

🏀 Former KU players part of NIL lawsuit

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha allowed one run on two hits over six innings, Salvador Perez drove in a pair of runs and the Royals held on to beat the Rays 4-2 on Wednesday night. James McArthur left runners on second and third to end the eighth inning, then came back for the ninth and watched Kyle Isbel make a great defensive play to pick up his 15th save. Wacha walked three and struck out eight, and the only run he allowed came on Isaac Paredes’ homer in the first. It was his eighth consecutive start allowing two earned runs or fewer. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino also drove in runs to push Kansas City to its AL-leading 31st home win. Ryan Pepiot allowed two runs on four his over four innings to take the loss for Tampa Bay.

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz hit run-scoring singles on consecutive pitches in the 10th inning, and the Pittsburgh Pirates rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 5-4. Willson Contreras’ two-run homer in the eighth off Pittsburgh's Colin Holderman tied the score 3-3. Alec Burleson’ put St. Louis ahead with a 10th-inning sacrifice fly off Aroldis Chapman. Andrew McCutchen drew a one-out walk from Andrew Kittridge, and Reynolds and Cruz got hits off JoJo Romero.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Christian Walker hit a go-ahead homer in the fourth inning and a three-run blast in the ninth — his 16th and 17th career shots at Dodger Stadium — and the Arizona Diamondbacks overcame a rough start to rout Los Angeles 12-4. Gabriel Moreno and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. added two-run homers for Arizona, down 4-1 before Diamondbacks starter Cristian Mena retired a batter in his major league debut. Freddie Freeman and Teoscar Hernández hit back-to-back homers in the first for the NL West-leading Dodgers. Walker went 4 for 5, falling a triple shy of the cycle, with four RBIs and three runs. He has 20 home runs this season. Arizona pounded out 16 hits.

NEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani has become the first player elected to start at designated hitter in four straight All-Star Games. He'll be joined by Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge as the only holdovers from last year in the lineups for the July 16 game at Arlington, Texas. Philadelphia could have three of the four National League infielders after fans voted shortstop Trea Turner and third baseman Alec Bohm to start alongside first baseman Bryce Harper, whose has a leg injury. Major League Baseball said this is the first time each league has had no more than one player repeat as an elected starter since fan balloting resumed in 1970.

UNDATED (AP) — LeBron James is coming back for a record-tying 22nd season in the NBA, one in which the league’s all-time scoring leader could share the floor with his son Bronny as teammates with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has agreed to a two-year contract to remain with the Lakers, according to a person with knowledge of the negotiations. The second year of the deal is at James’ option and means he could become a free agent again next summer, according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the agreement had not been announced publicly. The Lakers did announce that Bronny James already has signed his first NBA contract. It is a four-year deal.

NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas stars Mario Chalmers and Sherron Collins are among 16 ex-men’s college basketball players have sued the NCAA and multiple conferences over the use of their names, images and likenesses in promoting and monetizing March Madness. Turner Sports Interactive, the Big East, Pac-12, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC and ACC also are defendants in the class-action lawsuit. The filing says March Madness generates close to $1 billion in annual revenue for the NCAA, but none has gone to the plaintiffs.

UNDATED (AP) — The NCAA remains embroiled in multiple legal cases. The organization represents more than 500,000 athletes at more than 1,100 schools. Court challenges have already upended college athletics and more changes could be on the way.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lionel Messi’s leg injury was the only major obstacle that fell into Argentina’s path while it rolled through group play and into the Copa America quarterfinals. Bigger challenges await the defending champions, and they’re hoping Messi will be there to lead the way in perhaps his final international tournament. The 15-time Copa America champion Albiceleste top the list of eight teams still alive in the Americas’ biggest soccer tournament when quarterfinal play gets underway. With the host Americans and Mexico eliminated in group play, the spotlight shifts firmly to the South American powerhouses determined to raise the trophy.

HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Kylian Mbappé is not just a clash of soccer icons but a clash of generations. They’ll go head to head when Portugal plays France in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals on Friday, and their heavyweight meeting just got a little bit bigger after Ronaldo said this would be his last European Championship. There’s now a definitive specter of finality to Ronaldo’s long, headline-grabbing Euros adventure that could be brought to an end by Mbappé. The France captain is the heir apparent to Ronaldo and Lionel Messi after their long-time dominance of the sport. Mbappé grew up with pictures of Ronaldo on his bedroom wall.

PARIS (AP) — Just three weeks before the Olympics, the excitement that was building up in the host city is now mingled with anxiety about France’s political future. The far-right National Rally’s strong results in the first round of a rushed election has darkened the ambience in Paris, a left-wing stronghold that is one of the few places in France where the party failed to break through. Some Parisians say the Olympics have become a sideshow to the political developments, which could see France getting its first far-right government since World War II.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, July 4th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, July 4th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha allowed one run on two hits over six innings, Salvador Perez drove in a pair of runs and the Royals held on to beat the Rays 4-2 on Wednesday night. James McArthur left runners on second and third to end the eighth inning, then came back for the ninth and watched Kyle Isbel make a great defensive play to pick up his 15th save. Wacha walked three and struck out eight, and the only run he allowed came on Isaac Paredes’ homer in the first. It was his eighth consecutive start allowing two earned runs or fewer. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino also drove in runs to push Kansas City to its AL-leading 31st home win. Ryan Pepiot allowed two runs on four his over four innings to take the loss for Tampa Bay.PITTSBURGH (AP) — Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz hit run-scoring singles on consecutive pitches in the 10th inning, and the Pittsburgh Pirates rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 5-4. Willson Contreras’ two-run homer in the eighth off Pittsburgh's Colin Holderman tied the score 3-3. Alec Burleson’ put St. Louis ahead with a 10th-inning sacrifice fly off Aroldis Chapman. Andrew McCutchen drew a one-out walk from Andrew Kittridge, and Reynolds and Cruz got hits off JoJo Romero.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Christian Walker hit a go-ahead homer in the fourth inning and a three-run blast in the ninth — his 16th and 17th career shots at Dodger Stadium — and the Arizona Diamondbacks overcame a rough start to rout Los Angeles 12-4. Gabriel Moreno and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. added two-run homers for Arizona, down 4-1 before Diamondbacks starter Cristian Mena retired a batter in his major league debut. Freddie Freeman and Teoscar Hernández hit back-to-back homers in the first for the NL West-leading Dodgers. Walker went 4 for 5, falling a triple shy of the cycle, with four RBIs and three runs. He has 20 home runs this season. Arizona pounded out 16 hits.NEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani has become the first player elected to start at designated hitter in four straight All-Star Games. He'll be joined by Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge as the only holdovers from last year in the lineups for the July 16 game at Arlington, Texas. Philadelphia could have three of the four National League infielders after fans voted shortstop Trea Turner and third baseman Alec Bohm to start alongside first baseman Bryce Harper, whose has a leg injury. Major League Baseball said this is the first time each league has had no more than one player repeat as an elected starter since fan balloting resumed in 1970.UNDATED (AP) — LeBron James is coming back for a record-tying 22nd season in the NBA, one in which the league’s all-time scoring leader could share the floor with his son Bronny as teammates with the Los Angeles Lakers. James has agreed to a two-year contract to remain with the Lakers, according to a person with knowledge of the negotiations. The second year of the deal is at James’ option and means he could become a free agent again next summer, according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the agreement had not been announced publicly. The Lakers did announce that Bronny James already has signed his first NBA contract. It is a four-year deal.NEW YORK (AP) — Kansas stars Mario Chalmers and Sherron Collins are among 16 ex-men’s college basketball players have sued the NCAA and multiple conferences over the use of their names, images and likenesses in promoting and monetizing March Madness. Turner Sports Interactive, the Big East, Pac-12, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC and ACC also are defendants in the class-action lawsuit. The filing says March Madness generates close to $1 billion in annual revenue for the NCAA, but none has gone to the plaintiffs.UNDATED (AP) — The NCAA remains embroiled in multiple legal cases. The organization represents more than 500,000 athletes at more than 1,100 schools. Court challenges have already upended college athletics and more changes could be on the way.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lionel Messi’s leg injury was the only major obstacle that fell into Argentina’s path while it rolled through group play and into the Copa America quarterfinals. Bigger challenges await the defending champions, and they’re hoping Messi will be there to lead the way in perhaps his final international tournament. The 15-time Copa America champion Albiceleste top the list of eight teams still alive in the Americas’ biggest soccer tournament when quarterfinal play gets underway. With the host Americans and Mexico eliminated in group play, the spotlight shifts firmly to the South American powerhouses determined to raise the trophy.HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Kylian Mbappé is not just a clash of soccer icons but a clash of generations. They’ll go head to head when Portugal plays France in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals on Friday, and their heavyweight meeting just got a little bit bigger after Ronaldo said this would be his last European Championship. There’s now a definitive specter of finality to Ronaldo’s long, headline-grabbing Euros adventure that could be brought to an end by Mbappé. The France captain is the heir apparent to Ronaldo and Lionel Messi after their long-time dominance of the sport. Mbappé grew up with pictures of Ronaldo on his bedroom wall.PARIS (AP) — Just three weeks before the Olympics, the excitement that was building up in the host city is now mingled with anxiety about France’s political future. The far-right National Rally’s strong results in the first round of a rushed election has darkened the ambience in Paris, a left-wing stronghold that is one of the few places in France where the party failed to break through. Some Parisians say the Olympics have become a sideshow to the political developments, which could see France getting its first far-right government since World War II.WEDNESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal Boston 7 Miami 2Final Cincinnati 3 N.Y. Yankees 2Final San Diego 6 Texas 4AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Chicago White Sox 8 Cleveland 2Final Houston 9 Toronto 2Final Detroit 9 Minnesota 2Final Kansas City 4 Tampa Bay 2Final Oakland 5 L.A. Angels 0Final Baltimore 4 Seattle 1NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Washington 7 N.Y. Mets 5Final Pittsburgh 5 St. Louis 4Final Atlanta 3 San Francisco 1Final Philadelphia 5 Chicago Cubs 3Final Milwaukee 3 Colorado 0

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Thursday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha allowed one run on two hits over six innings, Salvador Perez drove in a pair of runs and the Kansas City Royals got a spectacular defensive play from Kyle Isbel in the ninth to beat the Tampa Bay Rays 4-2 on Wednesday night.

After reliever Chris Stratton gave up a run in the eighth, Royals closer James McArthur entered the game and got Jose Siri to fly out to right field and Richie Palacios to pop foul, leaving runners stranded on second and third.

McArthur came back for the ninth and gave up a leadoff single to Ben Rortvedt before striking out Yandy Diaz. Taylor Walls followed with a shot to deep center, where Isbel leaped up and slammed into the wall, barely hanging onto the catch as he hit the ground. McArthur then got Isaac Paredes to ground back to the pitcher to finish off his 15th save.

“I was kind of surprised I hung onto it. The wall is pretty hard out there," Isbel said. “I knew there was going to be a collision, but the game is on the line right there.”

Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino also drove in runs, pushing Kansas City to its AL-leading 31st home victory.

Wacha (5-6), who pitched for the Rays in 2021, walked three and struck out eight. The only run he allowed came on Paredes’ homer in the first, making it eight consecutive starts allowing two earned runs or fewer.

“He's really thrown the ball all season,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “We just couldn't get anything going. Mixed speeds really well, altered his delivery when we got guys on base. Slide-stepping and throwing timing off. Good performance.”

Ryan Pepiot (4-5) allowed two runs on four his over four innings for Tampa Bay. He struck out three.

After the series opener was delayed 2 1/2 hours by rain and finished after midnight, and Wednesday night's game started amid a drizzle, the clouds finally cleared off and a brilliant double rainbow appeared beyond the right-field wall at sunset.

Tampa Bay jumped ahead on Parades' two-out homer, but that was all the Rays could manage with Wacha on the mound. He left Amed Rosario on third in the second inning, stranded two in the third and worked around a leadoff double in the fourth.

The Royals took advantage of the opening, stringing together three hits in the third inning to take the lead. Isbel led off with a single, but it was Witt's double to left and Pasquantino's single moments later that pushed the runs across.

Kansas City still led 2-1 in the seventh when Shawn Armstrong walked Maikel Garcia and Witt. Perez stepped to the plate and got just enough barrel on the ball to bloop a single to right, scoring both of them and giving the Royals a cushion.

McArthur and Isbel made sure in the ninth that a two-run lead was enough.

“That was the most amazing catch I've seen,” McArthur said. “I knew (Isbel) had a chance on it because he's such a good outfielder, but that was just incredible.”

Tampa Bay traded RHP Aaron Civale to the NL Central-leading Brewers, who hope he can help a starting rotation decimated by injuries. The Rays received INF Gregory Barrios in the deal and assigned him to Class-A Bowling Green. Tampa Bay filled Civale's roster spot by recalling RHP Justin Sterner from Triple-A Durham.

Rays RHP Zach Eflin (4-5, 3.92 ERA) will start the season finale Thursday night. He is coming off six scoreless innings in a 3-1 win over Washington, his first victory since May 13. Royals RHP Alec Marsh (6-5, 4.19) gets the nod for the finale of a 10-game homestand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717239521858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha allowed one run on two hits over six innings, Salvador Perez drove in a pair of runs and the Kansas City Royals got a spectacular defensive play from Kyle Isbel in the ninth to beat the Tampa Bay Rays 4-2 on Wednesday night.After reliever Chris Stratton gave up a run in the eighth, Royals closer James McArthur entered the game and got Jose Siri to fly out to right field and Richie Palacios to pop foul, leaving runners stranded on second and third.McArthur came back for the ninth and gave up a leadoff single to Ben Rortvedt before striking out Yandy Diaz. Taylor Walls followed with a shot to deep center, where Isbel leaped up and slammed into the wall, barely hanging onto the catch as he hit the ground. McArthur then got Isaac Paredes to ground back to the pitcher to finish off his 15th save.“I was kind of surprised I hung onto it. The wall is pretty hard out there," Isbel said. “I knew there was going to be a collision, but the game is on the line right there.”Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino also drove in runs, pushing Kansas City to its AL-leading 31st home victory.Wacha (5-6), who pitched for the Rays in 2021, walked three and struck out eight. The only run he allowed came on Paredes’ homer in the first, making it eight consecutive starts allowing two earned runs or fewer.“He's really thrown the ball all season,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “We just couldn't get anything going. Mixed speeds really well, altered his delivery when we got guys on base. Slide-stepping and throwing timing off. Good performance.”Ryan Pepiot (4-5) allowed two runs on four his over four innings for Tampa Bay. He struck out three.After the series opener was delayed 2 1/2 hours by rain and finished after midnight, and Wednesday night's game started amid a drizzle, the clouds finally cleared off and a brilliant double rainbow appeared beyond the right-field wall at sunset.Tampa Bay jumped ahead on Parades' two-out homer, but that was all the Rays could manage with Wacha on the mound. He left Amed Rosario on third in the second inning, stranded two in the third and worked around a leadoff double in the fourth.The Royals took advantage of the opening, stringing together three hits in the third inning to take the lead. Isbel led off with a single, but it was Witt's double to left and Pasquantino's single moments later that pushed the runs across.Kansas City still led 2-1 in the seventh when Shawn Armstrong walked Maikel Garcia and Witt. Perez stepped to the plate and got just enough barrel on the ball to bloop a single to right, scoring both of them and giving the Royals a cushion.McArthur and Isbel made sure in the ninth that a two-run lead was enough.“That was the most amazing catch I've seen,” McArthur said. “I knew (Isbel) had a chance on it because he's such a good outfielder, but that was just incredible.”RAYS MAKE A DEALTampa Bay traded RHP Aaron Civale to the NL Central-leading Brewers, who hope he can help a starting rotation decimated by injuries. The Rays received INF Gregory Barrios in the deal and assigned him to Class-A Bowling Green. Tampa Bay filled Civale's roster spot by recalling RHP Justin Sterner from Triple-A Durham.UP NEXTRays RHP Zach Eflin (4-5, 3.92 ERA) will start the season finale Thursday night. He is coming off six scoreless innings in a 3-1 win over Washington, his first victory since May 13. Royals RHP Alec Marsh (6-5, 4.19) gets the nod for the finale of a 10-game homestand.

⚾ Royals win Wednesday over Rays

Former Hutchinson Community College All-American golfer Dominic Clemons became the first Blue Dragon player in history to qualify for one of professional golf’s four major championships on Tuesday.

Designated an amateur because he still has collegiate eligibility remaining, Clemons’ incredible summer of 2024 got even more eventful on Tuesday after the former Blue Dragon tied professional major champion Justin Rose (2013 U.S. Open Champion) for first place in one of the four qualifying tournaments for the 152nd British Open. Clemons played at the Burnham &amp; Barrow Golf Club in Burnham-on-Sea, England.

Clemons matched Rose stroke for stroke in each round with a 5-under 66 on Monday and a 3-under 68 on Tuesday to finish tied at 8-under 134, three strokes clear of the field. Clemons carded six birdies and only one bogey on Monday and closed with seven birdies and four bogeys on Tuesday.

The 152nd Open Championship will take place on July 18-21 at Royal Troon in Troon, South Ayrshire, Scotland.

Tying for The Open qualifier was just the latest spectacular performance for Clemons, who came to Hutchinson from Cambridge, England.

Already this summer, Clemons won the Scottish Men’s Open Amateur in May by 17 strokes. Then in June, Clemons advanced all the way to the finals of the 125th British Amateur, falling 4 and 3 in the 36-hole title match to Jakob Skov Olesen.

Clemons played for the Blue Dragons in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. Clemons was the No. 2 bag on Hutchinson’s second-straight team NJCAA National Champion in 2022 at the Odessa Country Club in Odessa, Texas. Clemons shot a 7-under 281 and tied for first place in the individual title chase. He lost a two-hole playoff, but still earned first-team NJCAA All-America honors.

One year later, Clemons helped the 2023 Blue Dragons to a fifth-place NJCAA nationals finish. Clemons tied for 34th individually at Sand Creek Station in Newton at 3-over 291.

After Hutchinson, Clemons transferred to Stetson University for the 2023-24 season. While with the Hatters, Clemons was a unanimous first-team All-ASUN selection, closing the year with five top-three finishes and seven top-five results in 12 tournaments.

Clemons was a three-time ASUN Golfer of the Week. He led the team in all categories and finished ranked No. 87 in the nation in the final Spikemark golf rankings. Clemons captured medalist honors at the Daytona Beach Intercollegiate with a 3-under par 213 (73-70-70) to capture his first medalist honor at Stetson.

Clemons has already transferred to the University of Alabama for the 2024-25 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720013461785.jpeg" alt="Former Blue Dragon All-American Dominic Clemons qualified for the 2024 British Open after tying for a qualifying tournament victory on Tuesday." />
 <figcaption>Former Blue Dragon All-American Dominic Clemons qualified for the 2024 British Open after tying for a qualifying tournament victory on Tuesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>HutchCC Sports InformationFormer Hutchinson Community College All-American golfer Dominic Clemons became the first Blue Dragon player in history to qualify for one of professional golf’s four major championships on Tuesday.Designated an amateur because he still has collegiate eligibility remaining, Clemons’ incredible summer of 2024 got even more eventful on Tuesday after the former Blue Dragon tied professional major champion Justin Rose (2013 U.S. Open Champion) for first place in one of the four qualifying tournaments for the 152nd British Open. Clemons played at the Burnham &amp; Barrow Golf Club in Burnham-on-Sea, England.Clemons matched Rose stroke for stroke in each round with a 5-under 66 on Monday and a 3-under 68 on Tuesday to finish tied at 8-under 134, three strokes clear of the field. Clemons carded six birdies and only one bogey on Monday and closed with seven birdies and four bogeys on Tuesday.The 152nd Open Championship will take place on July 18-21 at Royal Troon in Troon, South Ayrshire, Scotland.Tying for The Open qualifier was just the latest spectacular performance for Clemons, who came to Hutchinson from Cambridge, England.Already this summer, Clemons won the Scottish Men’s Open Amateur in May by 17 strokes. Then in June, Clemons advanced all the way to the finals of the 125th British Amateur, falling 4 and 3 in the 36-hole title match to Jakob Skov Olesen.Clemons played for the Blue Dragons in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. Clemons was the No. 2 bag on Hutchinson’s second-straight team NJCAA National Champion in 2022 at the Odessa Country Club in Odessa, Texas. Clemons shot a 7-under 281 and tied for first place in the individual title chase. He lost a two-hole playoff, but still earned first-team NJCAA All-America honors.One year later, Clemons helped the 2023 Blue Dragons to a fifth-place NJCAA nationals finish. Clemons tied for 34th individually at Sand Creek Station in Newton at 3-over 291.After Hutchinson, Clemons transferred to Stetson University for the 2023-24 season. While with the Hatters, Clemons was a unanimous first-team All-ASUN selection, closing the year with five top-three finishes and seven top-five results in 12 tournaments.Clemons was a three-time ASUN Golfer of the Week. He led the team in all categories and finished ranked No. 87 in the nation in the final Spikemark golf rankings. Clemons captured medalist honors at the Daytona Beach Intercollegiate with a 3-under par 213 (73-70-70) to capture his first medalist honor at Stetson.Clemons has already transferred to the University of Alabama for the 2024-25 season.