HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College men's basketball sophomore guard Kamryn Thomas signed his letter of intent to further his academic and athletic career at the University of Nebraska Omaha on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.

Thomas played one season at HutchCC and earned <a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2023-24/div1/all-americans/index">Third Team All-American honors</a> by the NJCAA. The 6-foot-8 guard from Chicago, Illinois played in 33 games, starting 31 of those. He averaged 16.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and shot 43.1 percent from behind the arc. Thomas finished fifth in single-season 3-point field goal makes in program history with 78.

Nebraska Omaha is a NCAA Division I school in Omaha and is a member of the Summit League. The Mavericks finished 15-18 this past season and are coached by Chris Crutchfield, who just completed his second season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713450976983.jpeg" alt="Kam Thomas signs his NLI with Nebraska Omaha on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kam Thomas signs his NLI with Nebraska Omaha on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College men's basketball sophomore guard Kamryn Thomas signed his letter of intent to further his academic and athletic career at the University of Nebraska Omaha on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.Thomas played one season at HutchCC and earned <a href="https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2023-24/div1/all-americans/index">Third Team All-American honors</a> by the NJCAA. The 6-foot-8 guard from Chicago, Illinois played in 33 games, starting 31 of those. He averaged 16.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and shot 43.1 percent from behind the arc. Thomas finished fifth in single-season 3-point field goal makes in program history with 78.Nebraska Omaha is a NCAA Division I school in Omaha and is a member of the Summit League. The Mavericks finished 15-18 this past season and are coached by Chris Crutchfield, who just completed his second season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713451415480.jpeg" alt="HutchCC sophomore Kamryn Thomas is surrounded by teammates in the Club 1928 Room at the Hutchinson Sports Arena on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>HutchCC sophomore Kamryn Thomas is surrounded by teammates in the Club 1928 Room at the Hutchinson Sports Arena on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>

🏀 MBB: HutchCC's Thomas inks with Nebraska Omaha

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Thursday, April 18th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Thursday, April 18th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="April 18th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=8ig45-15eb595-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals split with Sox ⚾ HutchCC Kam Thomas signs with Nebraska Omaha

Local Sports for April 18th, 2024 with Rob Dreher:

Joel Embiid scores 23 points, has the big assist as 76ers beat Heat in play-in to earn No. 7 seed

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joel Embiid had 23 points, 15 rebounds and one huge assist to Kelly Oubre Jr. on a late go-ahead three-point play that led the 76ers to a 105-104 win over the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament on Wednesday night. The 76ers earned the seventh seed and advance to play the second-seeded New York Knicks in the opening round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Game 1 is Saturday at Madison Square Garden. The Heat - who went from the play-in tourney to the NBA Finals a year ago — host Chicago on Friday night. The winner gets the No. 8 seed.

NBA bans Jontay Porter after gambling probe shows he shared information, bet on games

The NBA has banned Toronto player Jontay Porter after a league probe found he disclosed confidential information to sports bettors and bet on games. Porter, the league said, gave a bettor information about his own health status prior to Toronto's game on March 20. The league said another individual, known to be an NBA bettor, placed an $80,000 bet that Porter would not hit the numbers set for him in parlays through an online sports book. That bet would have won $1.1 million. Porter is the second person to be banned by Commissioner Adam Silver for violating league rules. The other was now-former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling in 2014.

Kimmich heads Bayern Munich past Arsenal and into Champions League semifinals

MUNICH (AP) — Joshua Kimmich's header powered Bayern Munich to a 1-0 win over Arsenal to reach the Champions League semifinals with a 3-2 victory on aggregate. Kimmich's header off Raphael Guerreiro's pinpoint cross put Bayern ahead in the 63rd minute as Bayern largely neutralized the English team's attack. Bayern kept alive its hopes of finishing the season with a trophy three days after Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern's 11-year reign as German champion. Arsenal's Champions League exit follows a heavy blow to its Premier League title ambitions in a 2-0 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.

Real Madrid beats Man City 4-3 on penalties to advance to the Champions League semifinals

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Real Madrid has advanced to the semifinals of the Champions League after beating Manchester City 4-3 on penalties at Etihad Stadium. Antonio Rudiger struck the decisive spot kick after the game had finished 1-1 through extra time and 4-4 on aggregate. Rodrygo fired 14-time champion Madrid ahead in the 12th minute with a twice-taken effort from close range to beat City goalkeeper Ederson on the rebound. City dominated the game from then on with Kevin De Bruyne leveling in the 76th by lifting a shot high into the net from close range.

Vinícius Junior injured in Real Madrid's Champions League quarterfinals match against Man City

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Vinícius Junior was taken off injured in the Champions League quarterfinals second leg between Manchester City and Real Madrid. The Brazil winger appeared to hurt his groin during a race to the ball with City defender Kyle Walker in extra time at Etihad Stadium. He was holding the inside of his thigh and dropped to the ground in pain before being replaced by Lucas Vazquez in the 103rd minute. The game had gone into extra time after finishing 1-1 in regulation. The match was tied 4-4 on aggregate after the first leg ended 3-3 in Madrid last week.

Stephen Curry tells the AP why 2024 is the right time to make his Olympic debut

Golden State guard Stephen Curry knew he was running out of chances to play in what would be his first Olympics, so he and his wife Ayesha started planning many months ago about how to make the Paris Games work for their family. Their growing family, that is. Ayesha Curry revealed in March that she is pregnant with the couple's fourth child and the baby is due in June. That's not entirely by accident; the couple thought ahead with hopes of keeping the Olympic months of July and August clear. Just in case. And USA Basketball made it official Wednesday, saying Curry is on the roster picked for the Paris Games.

Zion Williamson out for playoff play-in game vs. Kings; out 2 weeks if Pelicans advance

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson has been ruled out of the New Orleans Pelicans' Western Conference play-in game against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night because of a left hamstring injury. And Williamson is expected to miss up to two weeks should New Orleans advance to the NBA playoffs. Williamson's status is the latest in a series of untimely injuries during his first five NBA seasons and removes the Pelicans leading scorer from their lineup for a do-or-die, play-in tournament finale that will decide the eighth seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. Williamson missed most of his first four seasons because of a series of injuries but played in 70 games this season.

Party's over: Coyotes end tenure in the desert with raucous atmosphere before move

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Mullett Arena buzzed like few times in the two years since the Arizona Coyotes moved in, the fans amped for one last desert hurrah. For 60 minutes, they got one last chance to watch the team they came to love before the franchise as they know it is no more. The Coyotes are moving to Salt Lake City in a deal that could be signed less than 24 hours after Wednesday night's 5-2 win over Edmonton. Hockey could return, perhaps within five years, but the stark reality is this is the end for the foreseeable future. Not knowing if or when hockey will return, Coyotes fans treated the Mullett finale like one big party, even if it was a wake.

Dallas Stars clinch top seed in Western Conference by getting to overtime against Blues

DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Stars will be the top seed in the Western Conference playoffs for the first time since 2016. Dallas earned the point it needed by getting to overtime against St. Louis, then added another one by beating the Blues 2-1 in a shootout. The Stars finished with 113 points, the most since their franchise-record 114 on the way to winning their only Stanley Cup title in the 1998-99 season. Pacific Division champion Vancouver can only reach 111 points with a victory in its regular-season finale Thursday night. The Stars will play either reigning Stanley Cup champion Vegas or the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the playoffs.

Caitlin Clark looks like a natural as Indiana Fever introduce WNBA's top draft pick

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Caitlin Clark walked to the dais in Indianapolis and looked like a natural. The former Iowa star and No. 1 overall draft pick discussed the WNBA's new television deal and the impact it could have on every player in the league. She talked about how she'd fit in with her new Indiana Fever teammates. She even explained the fear she had appearing on Saturday Night Live last weekend and teased Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton about playing at her rival school, Iowa State. But most of all, Clark talked about her desire to help the Fever win.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, April 18th, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Thursday, April 18th, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>Local Sports for April 18th, 2024 with Rob Dreher:<div><iframe title="April 18th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=8ig45-15eb595-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for April 18th, 2024:<div><iframe title="April 18th, 2024 AP Sports in a Minute" 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=c64cs-15eb518-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Joel Embiid scores 23 points, has the big assist as 76ers beat Heat in play-in to earn No. 7 seedPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joel Embiid had 23 points, 15 rebounds and one huge assist to Kelly Oubre Jr. on a late go-ahead three-point play that led the 76ers to a 105-104 win over the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament on Wednesday night. The 76ers earned the seventh seed and advance to play the second-seeded New York Knicks in the opening round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Game 1 is Saturday at Madison Square Garden. The Heat - who went from the play-in tourney to the NBA Finals a year ago — host Chicago on Friday night. The winner gets the No. 8 seed.NBA bans Jontay Porter after gambling probe shows he shared information, bet on gamesThe NBA has banned Toronto player Jontay Porter after a league probe found he disclosed confidential information to sports bettors and bet on games. Porter, the league said, gave a bettor information about his own health status prior to Toronto's game on March 20. The league said another individual, known to be an NBA bettor, placed an $80,000 bet that Porter would not hit the numbers set for him in parlays through an online sports book. That bet would have won $1.1 million. Porter is the second person to be banned by Commissioner Adam Silver for violating league rules. The other was now-former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling in 2014.Kimmich heads Bayern Munich past Arsenal and into Champions League semifinalsMUNICH (AP) — Joshua Kimmich's header powered Bayern Munich to a 1-0 win over Arsenal to reach the Champions League semifinals with a 3-2 victory on aggregate. Kimmich's header off Raphael Guerreiro's pinpoint cross put Bayern ahead in the 63rd minute as Bayern largely neutralized the English team's attack. Bayern kept alive its hopes of finishing the season with a trophy three days after Bayer Leverkusen ended Bayern's 11-year reign as German champion. Arsenal's Champions League exit follows a heavy blow to its Premier League title ambitions in a 2-0 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.Real Madrid beats Man City 4-3 on penalties to advance to the Champions League semifinalsMANCHESTER, England (AP) — Real Madrid has advanced to the semifinals of the Champions League after beating Manchester City 4-3 on penalties at Etihad Stadium. Antonio Rudiger struck the decisive spot kick after the game had finished 1-1 through extra time and 4-4 on aggregate. Rodrygo fired 14-time champion Madrid ahead in the 12th minute with a twice-taken effort from close range to beat City goalkeeper Ederson on the rebound. City dominated the game from then on with Kevin De Bruyne leveling in the 76th by lifting a shot high into the net from close range.Vinícius Junior injured in Real Madrid's Champions League quarterfinals match against Man CityMANCHESTER, England (AP) — Vinícius Junior was taken off injured in the Champions League quarterfinals second leg between Manchester City and Real Madrid. The Brazil winger appeared to hurt his groin during a race to the ball with City defender Kyle Walker in extra time at Etihad Stadium. He was holding the inside of his thigh and dropped to the ground in pain before being replaced by Lucas Vazquez in the 103rd minute. The game had gone into extra time after finishing 1-1 in regulation. The match was tied 4-4 on aggregate after the first leg ended 3-3 in Madrid last week.Stephen Curry tells the AP why 2024 is the right time to make his Olympic debutGolden State guard Stephen Curry knew he was running out of chances to play in what would be his first Olympics, so he and his wife Ayesha started planning many months ago about how to make the Paris Games work for their family. Their growing family, that is. Ayesha Curry revealed in March that she is pregnant with the couple's fourth child and the baby is due in June. That's not entirely by accident; the couple thought ahead with hopes of keeping the Olympic months of July and August clear. Just in case. And USA Basketball made it official Wednesday, saying Curry is on the roster picked for the Paris Games.Zion Williamson out for playoff play-in game vs. Kings; out 2 weeks if Pelicans advanceNEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson has been ruled out of the New Orleans Pelicans' Western Conference play-in game against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night because of a left hamstring injury. And Williamson is expected to miss up to two weeks should New Orleans advance to the NBA playoffs. Williamson's status is the latest in a series of untimely injuries during his first five NBA seasons and removes the Pelicans leading scorer from their lineup for a do-or-die, play-in tournament finale that will decide the eighth seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. Williamson missed most of his first four seasons because of a series of injuries but played in 70 games this season.Party's over: Coyotes end tenure in the desert with raucous atmosphere before moveTEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — Mullett Arena buzzed like few times in the two years since the Arizona Coyotes moved in, the fans amped for one last desert hurrah. For 60 minutes, they got one last chance to watch the team they came to love before the franchise as they know it is no more. The Coyotes are moving to Salt Lake City in a deal that could be signed less than 24 hours after Wednesday night's 5-2 win over Edmonton. Hockey could return, perhaps within five years, but the stark reality is this is the end for the foreseeable future. Not knowing if or when hockey will return, Coyotes fans treated the Mullett finale like one big party, even if it was a wake.Dallas Stars clinch top seed in Western Conference by getting to overtime against BluesDALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Stars will be the top seed in the Western Conference playoffs for the first time since 2016. Dallas earned the point it needed by getting to overtime against St. Louis, then added another one by beating the Blues 2-1 in a shootout. The Stars finished with 113 points, the most since their franchise-record 114 on the way to winning their only Stanley Cup title in the 1998-99 season. Pacific Division champion Vancouver can only reach 111 points with a victory in its regular-season finale Thursday night. The Stars will play either reigning Stanley Cup champion Vegas or the Los Angeles Kings in the first round of the playoffs.Caitlin Clark looks like a natural as Indiana Fever introduce WNBA's top draft pickINDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Caitlin Clark walked to the dais in Indianapolis and looked like a natural. The former Iowa star and No. 1 overall draft pick discussed the WNBA's new television deal and the impact it could have on every player in the league. She talked about how she'd fit in with her new Indiana Fever teammates. She even explained the fear she had appearing on Saturday Night Live last weekend and teased Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton about playing at her rival school, Iowa State. But most of all, Clark talked about her desire to help the Fever win.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	5	Houston	4	Final	Oakland	6	St. Louis	3	Final	Seattle	5	Cincinnati	1	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Baltimore	4	Minnesota	2	Final	Texas	5	Detroit	4	Final	Kansas City	4	Chicago White Sox	2	Final	N.Y. Yankees	6	Toronto	4	Final	Chicago White Sox	2	Kansas City	1	Final	Boston	2	Cleveland	0	Final	L.A. Angels	5	Tampa Bay	4	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	San Francisco	3	Miami	1	Final	Milwaukee	1	San Diego	0	Final	N.Y. Mets	9	Pittsburgh	1	Final	Washington	2	L.A. Dodgers	0	Final	Chicago Cubs	5	Arizona	3	Final	Philadelphia	7	Colorado	6	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PLAYOFFSFinal	Philadelphia	105	Miami	104	Final	Chicago	131	Atlanta	116	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	6	Toronto	4	Final	N-Y Islanders	5	Pittsburgh	4	Final SO	Dallas	2	St. Louis	1	Final	Arizona	5	Edmonton	2	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___AMERICAN LEAGUE		L-A Angels	at	Tampa Bay	1:10 p.m.			Texas	at	Detroit	1:10 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Boston	1:35 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Miami	at	Chi Cubs	7:40 p.m.			Arizona	at	San Francisco	9:45 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Seattle	at	Minnesota	7 p.m.			Vancouver	at	Winnipeg	8 p.m.			San Jose	at	Calgary	9 p.m.			Edmonton	at	Colorado	9:30 p.m.			Anaheim	at	Vegas	10 p.m.			Chicago	at	Los Angeles	10:30 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Thursday

WICHITA, Kan.—Kyler Fedko&nbsp;got his second straight game with an RBI on a single in the fifth to score&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario&nbsp;before the Wichita Wind Surge lost 2-1 in 11 innings against the Tulsa Drillers.

What looked to be trouble in the top of the second inning was left stranded when&nbsp;Emmanuel Rodriguez&nbsp;caught a flyout to end the frame with the bases loaded with Drillers.

The Wichita fielding shined the brightest on the first Education Day of the season at Riverfront Stadium.&nbsp;Ben Ross&nbsp;started one to end the top of the fifth on a shovel pass to&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;to start a 6-4-3.&nbsp;Tanner Schobel&nbsp;also spun after collecting a ground ball to start the second, which went around the horn 5-4-3 in the top half of the ninth.

The go-ahead run for the Drillers came across on a single to left field at the top of the eleventh. The Wind Surge went down 1-2-3 to end the game, adding to their franchise-record losing streak, which now stands at nine consecutive contests.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713442949244.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge fall in extra innings to Tulsa" />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge fall in extra innings to Tulsa</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—Kyler Fedko&nbsp;got his second straight game with an RBI on a single in the fifth to score&nbsp;Kala’i Rosario&nbsp;before the Wichita Wind Surge lost 2-1 in 11 innings against the Tulsa Drillers.What looked to be trouble in the top of the second inning was left stranded when&nbsp;Emmanuel Rodriguez&nbsp;caught a flyout to end the frame with the bases loaded with Drillers.The Wichita fielding shined the brightest on the first Education Day of the season at Riverfront Stadium.&nbsp;Ben Ross&nbsp;started one to end the top of the fifth on a shovel pass to&nbsp;Jake Rucker&nbsp;to start a 6-4-3.&nbsp;Tanner Schobel&nbsp;also spun after collecting a ground ball to start the second, which went around the horn 5-4-3 in the top half of the ninth.The go-ahead run for the Drillers came across on a single to left field at the top of the eleventh. The Wind Surge went down 1-2-3 to end the game, adding to their franchise-record losing streak, which now stands at nine consecutive contests.

⚾ Wichita falls in extra innings again

CHICAGO (AP) — Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Wednesday for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.

Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2.

Paul DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.

“I don't think I've played a doubleheader where we did 30 minutes in-between,” DeJong said. "Two full nines, so it was a grinder day, but we got it done in the second game.

“To win a tight game against a team that's kind of beaten us all year, that's special for us."

The doubleheader was scheduled after Tuesday night’s game was rained out. The Royals (12-7) are 6-1 against the AL Central rival White Sox.

Fedde (1-0) allowed three hits, including two infield singles, over 5 2/3 innings for his first win with Chicago. The 31-year-old right-hander signed with the White Sox in December after pitching in South Korea last season.

“It went really well,” Fedde said of his fourth start with Chicago. “I felt like I was able to get leadoff guys out, control counts. Had a few walks (three), but I picked my places with it and got to good situations overall.”

Sheets' solo shot in the sixth off Michael Wacha struck the right-field foul pole and put Chicago ahead 2-0. Dominic Fletcher drove in Chicago's first run with a single in the fourth.

Hunter Renfroe knocked in a run with a groundout in the seventh against Tanner Banks, Chicago's first reliever. Deivi Garcia followed with two scoreless innings for his second career save and first this season.

Wacha (1-1) yielded two runs and four hits in six innings. The veteran righty struck out four and walked two.

“Our hitters will be there. They come up clutch, they get timely hitting,” Wacha said. “It just wasn't in the cards today.”

It was in the opener, though, when Perez homered off Michael Kopech to left-center to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. Kansas City’s eight-time All-Star catcher started both ends of the twinbill after missing Monday's game with a groin injury.

“Clearly, that home run was the huge point in the game," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But regardless, I thought (Perez) looked really good prior to that, too.”

Perez launched the first pitch he saw from the hard-throwing Kopech with two outs for his fifth home run.

“Not surprised. He earned that,” Quatraro said. “I mean, Kopech, that guy's got an electric arm. To be able to turn a fastball around like that, that's impressive.”

Perez, who turns 34 next month, was injured in a collision at the plate in a 2-1 loss to the Mets in New York on Sunday.

Renfroe added a solo shot in the ninth and Adam Frazier drove in the Royals’ first run with a single. Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits and was aboard for Perez's homer after beating out an infield single.

DeJong hit a two-run homer off Royals starter Brady Singer.

Nick Anderson (1-1), the second of four Kansas City relievers, pitched a scoreless seventh for the win. James McArthur worked around DeJong's double in the ninth for his fourth save.

Kopech (0-2) allowed two runs on two hits in the eighth and was charged with his first blown save.

Singer yielded two runs and three hits in five innings, walking three and striking out five. The right-hander had given up just two runs over 18 1/3 innings in three previous starts for a 0.98 ERA.

White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon pitched five strong innings in his major league debut and exited with a 2-1 lead. The lanky 23-year-old right-hander allowed three hits, struck out three and walked one while throwing 54 of 79 pitches for strikes.

“I thought I did well. I thought I executed a lot of pitches,” said Cannon, who had family and friends in the stands. "I was really able to execute my game plan going in.

“It was a dream come true, really," he added.

Cannon retired his first five hitters and should have gotten a sixth to end the second. Nelson Velázquez hit a line drive to center field, but Fletcher slipped twice and the ball sailed over him for a double.

Chicago jumped on top 2-1 in the bottom half on DeJong’s third homer.

Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham was expected to report to Triple-A Charlotte after finalizing a minor league contract with the White Sox on Tuesday.

Royals: RHP Alec Marsh (2-0, 4.32 ERA) faces Baltimore RHP Dean Kremer (0-1, 4.96) in Kansas City on Friday.

White Sox: LHP Garrett Crochet (1-2, 3.57 ERA) takes the mound Friday in Philadelphia against RHP Spencer Turnbull (1-0, 1.80).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713393222199.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a home run during the eighth inning of the first baseball game of a doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox, Wednesday, April 17, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a home run during the eighth inning of the first baseball game of a doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox, Wednesday, April 17, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)</figcaption>
 </figure>MATT CARLSON Associated PressCHICAGO (AP) — Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Wednesday for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2.Paul DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.“I don't think I've played a doubleheader where we did 30 minutes in-between,” DeJong said. "Two full nines, so it was a grinder day, but we got it done in the second game.“To win a tight game against a team that's kind of beaten us all year, that's special for us."The doubleheader was scheduled after Tuesday night’s game was rained out. The Royals (12-7) are 6-1 against the AL Central rival White Sox.Fedde (1-0) allowed three hits, including two infield singles, over 5 2/3 innings for his first win with Chicago. The 31-year-old right-hander signed with the White Sox in December after pitching in South Korea last season.“It went really well,” Fedde said of his fourth start with Chicago. “I felt like I was able to get leadoff guys out, control counts. Had a few walks (three), but I picked my places with it and got to good situations overall.”Sheets' solo shot in the sixth off Michael Wacha struck the right-field foul pole and put Chicago ahead 2-0. Dominic Fletcher drove in Chicago's first run with a single in the fourth.Hunter Renfroe knocked in a run with a groundout in the seventh against Tanner Banks, Chicago's first reliever. Deivi Garcia followed with two scoreless innings for his second career save and first this season.Wacha (1-1) yielded two runs and four hits in six innings. The veteran righty struck out four and walked two.“Our hitters will be there. They come up clutch, they get timely hitting,” Wacha said. “It just wasn't in the cards today.”It was in the opener, though, when Perez homered off Michael Kopech to left-center to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. Kansas City’s eight-time All-Star catcher started both ends of the twinbill after missing Monday's game with a groin injury.“Clearly, that home run was the huge point in the game," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But regardless, I thought (Perez) looked really good prior to that, too.”Perez launched the first pitch he saw from the hard-throwing Kopech with two outs for his fifth home run.“Not surprised. He earned that,” Quatraro said. “I mean, Kopech, that guy's got an electric arm. To be able to turn a fastball around like that, that's impressive.”Perez, who turns 34 next month, was injured in a collision at the plate in a 2-1 loss to the Mets in New York on Sunday.Renfroe added a solo shot in the ninth and Adam Frazier drove in the Royals’ first run with a single. Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits and was aboard for Perez's homer after beating out an infield single.DeJong hit a two-run homer off Royals starter Brady Singer.Nick Anderson (1-1), the second of four Kansas City relievers, pitched a scoreless seventh for the win. James McArthur worked around DeJong's double in the ninth for his fourth save.Kopech (0-2) allowed two runs on two hits in the eighth and was charged with his first blown save.Singer yielded two runs and three hits in five innings, walking three and striking out five. The right-hander had given up just two runs over 18 1/3 innings in three previous starts for a 0.98 ERA.White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon pitched five strong innings in his major league debut and exited with a 2-1 lead. The lanky 23-year-old right-hander allowed three hits, struck out three and walked one while throwing 54 of 79 pitches for strikes.“I thought I did well. I thought I executed a lot of pitches,” said Cannon, who had family and friends in the stands. "I was really able to execute my game plan going in.“It was a dream come true, really," he added.Cannon retired his first five hitters and should have gotten a sixth to end the second. Nelson Velázquez hit a line drive to center field, but Fletcher slipped twice and the ball sailed over him for a double.Chicago jumped on top 2-1 in the bottom half on DeJong’s third homer.Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham was expected to report to Triple-A Charlotte after finalizing a minor league contract with the White Sox on Tuesday.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Alec Marsh (2-0, 4.32 ERA) faces Baltimore RHP Dean Kremer (0-1, 4.96) in Kansas City on Friday.White Sox: LHP Garrett Crochet (1-2, 3.57 ERA) takes the mound Friday in Philadelphia against RHP Spencer Turnbull (1-0, 1.80).

⚾ Royals and White Sox split Wednesday doubleheader

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. — Oral Roberts scored six times in the top of the second, including a grand slam from Alex Rodgers, and never looked back on the way to an 8-3 win over Wichita State on Wednesday night at Eck Stadium.

With the game scoreless into the top of the second, the Golden Eagles (13-23-1) put a runner at second with one out against WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caleb-anderson/8973">Caleb Anderson</a>&nbsp;(1-2). Six straight batters reached from that point on, including a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-herring/7462">David Herring</a>&nbsp;RBI single and the Rodgers grand slam that made it 5-0. Drew Stahl smacked an RBI double later in the inning to make it 6-0.

The Shockers (21-17) chipped away with single runs in the second and third innings, getting on the board via a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-stroh/7543">Seth Stroh</a>&nbsp;RBI ground out and adding a second run when&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>&nbsp;raced home from second on a bad throw by ORU catcher Garrett Casey.

6-2 is as close as the Shockers would get, as the Golden Eagles tacked on two more runs in the sixth when Martell Davis tripled past a diving Stroh in right field and Rodgers doubled him home.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7532">Mauricio Millan</a>&nbsp;ground out delivered the final run of the evening for Wichita State in the sixth.

The Shocker bullpen pitched well after the early barrage, holding Oral Roberts to two runs over the final 7.2 innings. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/drew-iverson/7618">Drew Iverson</a>&nbsp;was the standout, delivering a season-high three scoreless innings with three strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mason-munz/7619">Mason Munz</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jeremiah-arnett/7612">Jeremiah Arnett</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/peyton-walters/8974">Peyton Walters</a>&nbsp;each contributed scoreless appearances, as well.

Braydon Sanford (2-3) earned the win for ORU, allowing one unearned run over 1.1 innings in relief. Six Golden Eagles pitchers held Wichita State to just four hits on the night.

Wichita State hits the road for another American Athletic Conference series against East Carolina. First pitch of Friday's series opener is scheduled for 5:00 pm CT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713415045572.png" alt="Photo Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; " />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; </figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. — Oral Roberts scored six times in the top of the second, including a grand slam from Alex Rodgers, and never looked back on the way to an 8-3 win over Wichita State on Wednesday night at Eck Stadium.With the game scoreless into the top of the second, the Golden Eagles (13-23-1) put a runner at second with one out against WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caleb-anderson/8973">Caleb Anderson</a>&nbsp;(1-2). Six straight batters reached from that point on, including a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-herring/7462">David Herring</a>&nbsp;RBI single and the Rodgers grand slam that made it 5-0. Drew Stahl smacked an RBI double later in the inning to make it 6-0.The Shockers (21-17) chipped away with single runs in the second and third innings, getting on the board via a&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-stroh/7543">Seth Stroh</a>&nbsp;RBI ground out and adding a second run when&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/camden-johnson/7605">Camden Johnson</a>&nbsp;raced home from second on a bad throw by ORU catcher Garrett Casey.6-2 is as close as the Shockers would get, as the Golden Eagles tacked on two more runs in the sixth when Martell Davis tripled past a diving Stroh in right field and Rodgers doubled him home.A&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7532">Mauricio Millan</a>&nbsp;ground out delivered the final run of the evening for Wichita State in the sixth.The Shocker bullpen pitched well after the early barrage, holding Oral Roberts to two runs over the final 7.2 innings. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/drew-iverson/7618">Drew Iverson</a>&nbsp;was the standout, delivering a season-high three scoreless innings with three strikeouts.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mason-munz/7619">Mason Munz</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jeremiah-arnett/7612">Jeremiah Arnett</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/peyton-walters/8974">Peyton Walters</a>&nbsp;each contributed scoreless appearances, as well.Braydon Sanford (2-3) earned the win for ORU, allowing one unearned run over 1.1 innings in relief. Six Golden Eagles pitchers held Wichita State to just four hits on the night.Wichita State hits the road for another American Athletic Conference series against East Carolina. First pitch of Friday's series opener is scheduled for 5:00 pm CT.

⚾ Big second inning dooms Wichita State

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. — No. 6 Oklahoma State scored five runs in the top of the fifth to complete a comeback win over Wichita State, 6-5, Wednesday night at Wilkins Stadium.

Wichita State (19-18) let another big win fall through its fingertips in a situation all too familiar this season. The Shockers led by four runs entering the fifth inning, but surrendered five runs to fall behind and could never recover. Wichita State lost both game to Oklahoma State this season by a combined two runs and held late leads in both.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;had a pair of hits to go with an RBI and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/taylor-sedlacek/7570">Taylor Sedlacek</a>&nbsp;delivered the biggest hit on a two-run home run.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;recorded the only other hits on the night on a single each.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;was superb through 4.0 innings, but ran into trouble in the fifth, allowing four runs, only two earned, on four hits. She struck out three and walked none.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(5-6) was saddled with the loss in relief. She gave up two runs on a walk and three strikeouts in 3.0 innings.

A pair of errors on the night proved costly for Wichita State, as the Cowgirls scored three unearned runs on Shocker miscues.

An error in the first inning led to Oklahoma State scoring a run on a spectacular double play by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sami-hood/7565">Sami Hood</a>.

Oklahoma State would return the favor in the second on a fielding error to allow the tying run to come home.

Sedlacek's big two-run home run in the bottom of the third put the Shockers in front, 3-1. That lead grew to 5-1 in the fourth on Nelson's RBI single and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong's</a>&nbsp;fielder's choice.

The Cowgirls quickly turned the momentum in the top of the fifth when the first two hitters reached on a single and double. Another single made it 5-2 and then an infield single and a throwing error brought two more home, making it just a one-run game. A sac fly tied the game at 5-5. Following a groundout, a single to the left-center gap put the Cowgirls in front, 6-5.

Wichita State had a golden opportunity to tie or take the lead in the sixth after&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;walked to leadoff. A sac bunt from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;moved&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/avery-barnard/7574">Avery Barnard</a>, pinch running for Brown, to second and then a Nelson single put runners on the corners with only one out. Wong then grounded out to second and Barnard struck out to retire the side, stranding the tying run just 60 feet away.

Up Next:Separated by one game in the conference standings, Wichita State and UAB open a weekend series at Wilkins Stadium, April 19 at 6 p.m. on ESPN+.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713414539432.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. — No. 6 Oklahoma State scored five runs in the top of the fifth to complete a comeback win over Wichita State, 6-5, Wednesday night at Wilkins Stadium.Wichita State (19-18) let another big win fall through its fingertips in a situation all too familiar this season. The Shockers led by four runs entering the fifth inning, but surrendered five runs to fall behind and could never recover. Wichita State lost both game to Oklahoma State this season by a combined two runs and held late leads in both.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7568">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;had a pair of hits to go with an RBI and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/taylor-sedlacek/7570">Taylor Sedlacek</a>&nbsp;delivered the biggest hit on a two-run home run.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7558">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;recorded the only other hits on the night on a single each.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7566">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;was superb through 4.0 innings, but ran into trouble in the fifth, allowing four runs, only two earned, on four hits. She struck out three and walked none.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7561">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;(5-6) was saddled with the loss in relief. She gave up two runs on a walk and three strikeouts in 3.0 innings.A pair of errors on the night proved costly for Wichita State, as the Cowgirls scored three unearned runs on Shocker miscues.An error in the first inning led to Oklahoma State scoring a run on a spectacular double play by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sami-hood/7565">Sami Hood</a>.Oklahoma State would return the favor in the second on a fielding error to allow the tying run to come home.Sedlacek's big two-run home run in the bottom of the third put the Shockers in front, 3-1. That lead grew to 5-1 in the fourth on Nelson's RBI single and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/cc-wong/8967">CC Wong's</a>&nbsp;fielder's choice.The Cowgirls quickly turned the momentum in the top of the fifth when the first two hitters reached on a single and double. Another single made it 5-2 and then an infield single and a throwing error brought two more home, making it just a one-run game. A sac fly tied the game at 5-5. Following a groundout, a single to the left-center gap put the Cowgirls in front, 6-5.Wichita State had a golden opportunity to tie or take the lead in the sixth after&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7559">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;walked to leadoff. A sac bunt from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7563">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;moved&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/avery-barnard/7574">Avery Barnard</a>, pinch running for Brown, to second and then a Nelson single put runners on the corners with only one out. Wong then grounded out to second and Barnard struck out to retire the side, stranding the tying run just 60 feet away.Up Next:Separated by one game in the conference standings, Wichita State and UAB open a weekend series at Wilkins Stadium, April 19 at 6 p.m. on ESPN+.

🥎 No. 6 OSU erases four-run deficit to clip Shockers

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. –&nbsp;Kansas softball defeated&nbsp;Missouri State 9-0 in six innings for its 10th shutout victory of the season Wednesday at Killian Sports Complex.

Junior pitcher&nbsp;Katie Brooks, from Bolivar, Missouri,&nbsp;threw five scoreless innings while allowing just two hits along with three strikeouts as she improved to 12-3 on the season. Nine different Jayhawks recorded a hit as Kansas improved to 27-14-1,&nbsp;while Missouri State fell to 10-28.

Win: Katie Brooks (12-3)Final line: 5.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 SOLoss: Gracie Johnson (2-14)Final line: 5.0 IP, 9 H, 7 R, 3 BB, 3 SO

Bruno hit her second home run of the season as she went 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBI as the designated player. Her two hits tied&nbsp;her season high as she is just one home run away from breaking into the&nbsp;Kansas career&nbsp;top-10 list, currently at 23.

“We did exactly what we needed to do&nbsp;today. Katie Brooks took care of business in the circle, giving up only two hits.&nbsp;It was a great homecoming for her. She had a lot of fans here,&nbsp;which always adds pressure sometimes.&nbsp;It was a big night for Olivia Bruno. She needed that more than anything, with the three RBI and 2-for-3 performance. Now our focus is on Texas as we get ready for a big weekend at home.” –&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Head Coach Jennifer McFalls

“I felt pretty good&nbsp;today. The team has really just been behind me this whole time. Honestly, it was because of them, they’ve had my back this whole time. We came here to finish business and that’s what we did” – Olivia Bruno

Kansas will host its second three-game series against the No. 1 team in the nation this season as it welcomes No. 1 Texas to Arrocha Ballpark from April 19-21. All three games will be streamed via Big 12 Now on ESPN+, and fans can purchase tickets&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.evenue.net%2Fcgi-bin%2Fncommerce3%2FSEGetGroupList%3FgroupCode%3DSB%26linkID%3Dkansas%26shopperContext%3D%26caller%3D%26appCode%3D%26utm_source%3Dnavbar%26utm_medium%3Dwebsite%26utm_campaign%3Dnavbar_website&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjackgilligan%40ku.edu%7C89a609d25a66477e86cc08dc5f3922d7%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638489946196500218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9UEBTv1v7rNceHXC%2BRCMGAdwgbletUTBOIeoYrpN%2Fjk%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713405562197.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas AthleticsSPRINGFIELD, Mo. –&nbsp;Kansas softball defeated&nbsp;Missouri State 9-0 in six innings for its 10th shutout victory of the season Wednesday at Killian Sports Complex.Junior pitcher&nbsp;Katie Brooks, from Bolivar, Missouri,&nbsp;threw five scoreless innings while allowing just two hits along with three strikeouts as she improved to 12-3 on the season. Nine different Jayhawks recorded a hit as Kansas improved to 27-14-1,&nbsp;while Missouri State fell to 10-28.HOW IT HAPPENED<ul>
 <li>Kansas got out to a hot start early. In the first at-bat of the game,&nbsp;sophomore&nbsp;Presley Limbaugh singled up the middle and reached second after a groundout to first.&nbsp;Sophomore&nbsp;Hailey Cripe was intentionally walked and with two outs,&nbsp;then junior&nbsp;designated player Olivia Bruno hit her second home run of the season to put Kansas up 3-0 early.</li><li>The Jayhawks added&nbsp;to their run total in the secondinning.&nbsp;Freshman&nbsp;September Flanagan hit a solo home run to left, the first hit of her career, to extend KU’s lead to 4-0 heading into the bottom of the second.</li><li>&nbsp;KU added another run in the third to make it three-straight innings with a run scored.&nbsp;Senior&nbsp;Lyric Moore opened the frame with a single but was thrown out on a fielder’s choice that gave Cripe first.&nbsp;After Cripe stole second and Bruno drew a walk,&nbsp;sophomore&nbsp;Campbell Bagshaw hit a single to left to increase the lead to 5-0.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Kansas would extend its lead again in the fifth&nbsp;frame. Cripe got on base first with a single and was followed up by a single from Bruno to put runners on first and second. With two outs,&nbsp;sophomore&nbsp;Emma Tatum doubled to right center to give Kansas a&nbsp;7-0&nbsp;lead.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;The Jayhawks put themselves into run-rule territory in the top of the sixth.&nbsp;Senior&nbsp;Katie Gee opened the frame with a walk, followed by a double from&nbsp;senior&nbsp;Sophia Buzard to put runners on second and third. AnRBI single by&nbsp;freshman&nbsp;Abby Carsley scored Gee from third to give Kansas an 8-0 lead with runners on the corners. Cripe lined out to third, but a wild throw from the third baseman gave Buzard the run to increase KU’s lead to nine.</li><li>&nbsp;Brooks&nbsp;got&nbsp;her 17th start of the season.&nbsp;She&nbsp;threw five scoreless innings with three strikeouts and two hits before&nbsp;senior&nbsp;Addison Purvis came in as relief in the sixth. Purvis continued the KU pitching domination, as she struck out the first two batters she faced before forcing a popup to give Kansas the shutout, run-rule victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>PITCHERS OF RECORDWin: Katie Brooks (12-3)Final line: 5.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 SOLoss: Gracie Johnson (2-14)Final line: 5.0 IP, 9 H, 7 R, 3 BB, 3 SOPLAYER OF THE GAMEBruno hit her second home run of the season as she went 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBI as the designated player. Her two hits tied&nbsp;her season high as she is just one home run away from breaking into the&nbsp;Kansas career&nbsp;top-10 list, currently at 23.QUOTABLES &amp; NOTABLES“We did exactly what we needed to do&nbsp;today. Katie Brooks took care of business in the circle, giving up only two hits.&nbsp;It was a great homecoming for her. She had a lot of fans here,&nbsp;which always adds pressure sometimes.&nbsp;It was a big night for Olivia Bruno. She needed that more than anything, with the three RBI and 2-for-3 performance. Now our focus is on Texas as we get ready for a big weekend at home.” –&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Head Coach Jennifer McFalls“I felt pretty good&nbsp;today. The team has really just been behind me this whole time. Honestly, it was because of them, they’ve had my back this whole time. We came here to finish business and that’s what we did” – Olivia Bruno<ul>
 <li>&nbsp;Kansas’ 27 wins this season are the most since 2018 when the team went 27-25.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Kansas earned its 10th shutout victory and its seventh run-rule&nbsp;win&nbsp;of the season.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;With her single in the first at-bat of the game, Limbaugh increased her hitting streak to nine, her longest hitting streak this season.</li><li>&nbsp;Bruno hit her second home run of the season in the first, which put her at 23 total home runs throughout her career. Bruno is now one home run shy of cracking the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;top-10 of the all-time career home run list.</li><li>&nbsp;Flanagan recorded her first hit as a Jayhawk in the second&nbsp;inning, as she touched all of the bases for a home run.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>UP NEXTKansas will host its second three-game series against the No. 1 team in the nation this season as it welcomes No. 1 Texas to Arrocha Ballpark from April 19-21. All three games will be streamed via Big 12 Now on ESPN+, and fans can purchase tickets&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.evenue.net%2Fcgi-bin%2Fncommerce3%2FSEGetGroupList%3FgroupCode%3DSB%26linkID%3Dkansas%26shopperContext%3D%26caller%3D%26appCode%3D%26utm_source%3Dnavbar%26utm_medium%3Dwebsite%26utm_campaign%3Dnavbar_website&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjackgilligan%40ku.edu%7C89a609d25a66477e86cc08dc5f3922d7%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638489946196500218%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9UEBTv1v7rNceHXC%2BRCMGAdwgbletUTBOIeoYrpN%2Fjk%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.

🥎 Jayhawks run-rule Missouri State

Courtesy HutchCC Sports Information

WICHITA – Trailing by six strokes entering Tuesday’s final round of Jayhawk No. 2, the fifth-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team rallied to earn its second KJCCC league win of the season at Crestview Country Club’s North Course.

With four scores of 73 or lower, the Blue Dragons surged past Dodge City and defeated the Conquistadors by eight strokes after shooting a 54-hole total of 2-over 866.

The Blue Dragons now lead Dodge City by two points in the Jayhawk Conference season standings (18-16) with the Jayhawk Conference championship next Monday and Tuesday at Sand Creek Station in Newton.

Freshman Charlie Box was the tournament’s individual champion on Tuesday, shooting an even-par 72 to close out a two-stroke victory with a 54-hole total of 6-under 210. Box takes over first place in the KJCCC individual season standings with 19 points.

The Blue Dragons had four golfers finish in the Top 10 Tuesday in high wind conditions.

The Blue Dragons shot a 290 in the final round on Tuesday with 72s from Box and Keaton Thissen and 73s from David Razinskas and Marco Anderson.

Dodge City, after shooting 6-under in the first two rounds, carded a 16-over 304 on Tuesday to finish at 874. Garden City was third at 904.

Box was one only two golfers in the field to shoot even par or lower in each of the three rounds. He had back-to-back rounds of 69 on Monday to lead the event at 6-under par and took a two-stroke lead into Tuesday’s final round. Box and Dodge City’s Arthit Kruaprayong both had 72s on Tuesday as Box earned his first individual collegiate victory.

Razinskas placed third individually for the second-straight conference-designated tournament at 1-under 215. Razinskas had rounds of 70 and 72 on Monday. Razinskas is second in the league season standings with 16 points.

Louis Ross finished seventh overall at 6-over 222. Ross had Monday rounds of 72 and 74 and closed Tuesday with a 76.

Anderson tied for eighth at 7-over 223. Anderson started slow on Monday with an opening-round 78, but shot even-par 72 in the second round.

Thissen’s 72 in the final round was a season-low round for the Blue Dragon freshman. He finished tied for 14th on Tuesday with rounds of79, 75 and 72.

Blue Dragon individual player Brooks Sauder tied for 25th&nbsp; at 232 after rounds of 77, 77 and 78.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713364578834.jpeg" alt="Charlie Box pumps his fist after chipping in for birdie on No. 14 at Crestview CC-North on Tuesday at Jayhawk No. 2. Box won the individual title and the Blue Dragons rallied to win the team title. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Charlie Box pumps his fist after chipping in for birdie on No. 14 at Crestview CC-North on Tuesday at Jayhawk No. 2. Box won the individual title and the Blue Dragons rallied to win the team title. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy HutchCC Sports InformationWICHITA – Trailing by six strokes entering Tuesday’s final round of Jayhawk No. 2, the fifth-ranked Hutchinson Community College men’s golf team rallied to earn its second KJCCC league win of the season at Crestview Country Club’s North Course.With four scores of 73 or lower, the Blue Dragons surged past Dodge City and defeated the Conquistadors by eight strokes after shooting a 54-hole total of 2-over 866.The Blue Dragons now lead Dodge City by two points in the Jayhawk Conference season standings (18-16) with the Jayhawk Conference championship next Monday and Tuesday at Sand Creek Station in Newton.Freshman Charlie Box was the tournament’s individual champion on Tuesday, shooting an even-par 72 to close out a two-stroke victory with a 54-hole total of 6-under 210. Box takes over first place in the KJCCC individual season standings with 19 points.The Blue Dragons had four golfers finish in the Top 10 Tuesday in high wind conditions.The Blue Dragons shot a 290 in the final round on Tuesday with 72s from Box and Keaton Thissen and 73s from David Razinskas and Marco Anderson.Dodge City, after shooting 6-under in the first two rounds, carded a 16-over 304 on Tuesday to finish at 874. Garden City was third at 904.Box was one only two golfers in the field to shoot even par or lower in each of the three rounds. He had back-to-back rounds of 69 on Monday to lead the event at 6-under par and took a two-stroke lead into Tuesday’s final round. Box and Dodge City’s Arthit Kruaprayong both had 72s on Tuesday as Box earned his first individual collegiate victory.Razinskas placed third individually for the second-straight conference-designated tournament at 1-under 215. Razinskas had rounds of 70 and 72 on Monday. Razinskas is second in the league season standings with 16 points.Louis Ross finished seventh overall at 6-over 222. Ross had Monday rounds of 72 and 74 and closed Tuesday with a 76.Anderson tied for eighth at 7-over 223. Anderson started slow on Monday with an opening-round 78, but shot even-par 72 in the second round.Thissen’s 72 in the final round was a season-low round for the Blue Dragon freshman. He finished tied for 14th on Tuesday with rounds of79, 75 and 72.Blue Dragon individual player Brooks Sauder tied for 25th&nbsp; at 232 after rounds of 77, 77 and 78.

⛳ Blue Dragons rally to win Jayhawk No. 2 in Wichita

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="April 17th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=479e2-15e9c44-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals postponed ⚾ Hutch High wins 4th straight 

Local Sports for April 17th, 2024 with Rob Dreher:

Royals vs White Sox game postpone because of rain.

CHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch in the second game.

The Kings eliminate the Warriors from play-in tournament with 118-94 win

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Keegan Murray scored 32 points, De'Aaron Fox added 24 and the Sacramento Kings stayed alive in the play-in tournament, eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 118-94 victory. Sacramento advanced to play at New Orleans on Friday night with a chance to return to the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Western Conference after snapping an NBA record 16-year playoff drought last season. The loss kept Golden State out of the playoffs for the third time in the past five seasons, including two eliminations in the play-in tournament.

Zion Williamson's injury dampens his otherwise dominant postseason debut for the Pelicans

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson's 40-point, 11-rebound showing in his NBA postseason debut ended in a worrisome way for the New Orleans Pelicans. He missed the final three minutes of a 110-106 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference play-in tournament because of a left leg injury. Williamson is due for imaging Wednesday and his status is unclear heading into a do-or-die play-in finale against Sacramento on Friday night to the decide the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Williamson missed most of his first four seasons because of a series of injuries but played in 70 games this season.

LeBron James and the Lakers beat Pelicans in play-in, earn a playoff rematch with the Nuggets

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — LeBron James had 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds, and the Los Angeles Lakers secured a playoff berth with a 110-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in tournament. Zion Williamson had 40 points and 11 rebounds in his NBA postseason debut. But shortly after tying the game on a driving layup with 3:19 to go, Williamson went to the locker room with an unspecified leg injury. Anthony Davis had 20 points and 15 rebounds. De'Angelo Russell scored 21, hitting five 3-pointers. The Lakers open the playoffs Saturday at Denver. The Pelicans will host Sacramento on Friday with the winner receiving the No. 8 seed.

Oshie scores game-winner into empty net as Capitals make playoffs by beating Flyers

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — T.J. Oshie scored into an empty net in the rare situation of a team pulling its goaltender in a tie game, and the Washington Capitals are in the playoffs after beating the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1. Philadelphia coach John Tortorella pulled goalie Samuel Ersson for an extra attacker because his team needed to win in regulation to keep its hopes alive. Oshie's goal with exactly 3 minutes left came perhaps a minute after Detroit scored to force overtime in Montreal, eliminating the Flyers. The Capitals will face the NHL-best New York Rangers in the first round.

Philadelphia 76ers set to start another playoff run with an ailing Joel Embiid

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joel Embiid is again dealing with injuries headed into the NBA playoffs. Embiid tweaked his surgically-repaired left knee last week and sat out the regular-season finale. Sixers coach Nick Nurse remained hopeful that Embiid would be ready to start Wednesday in the NBA play-in tournament game against Miami. The 76ers finished 31-8 this season with Embiid and a woeful 16-27 without him. The Sixers would earn the No. 7 seed and play the New York Knicks in the first round if they beat the Heat. A loss would mean they have to win the next play-in game on Friday to clinch the No. 8 seed.

USA Basketball fills the 12 available slots for the Paris Olympics roster, AP sources say

LeBron James plans to go back to the Olympics. Stephen Curry is planning on going for the first time. Kevin Durant will go there with his eye on history. And they're just part of a star-studded roster the Americans have assembled for the Paris Games. USA Basketball has gotten confirmations from 12 players — James, Curry, Durant, Bam Adebayo, Devin Booker, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Davis, Jrue Holiday, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards and Kawhi Leonard — that they will accept invitations to be on the Olympic roster. That's according to three people with knowledge of the decisions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the roster had not been released.

Carl Erskine, Dodgers pitcher and last surviving member of 'Boys of Summer,' dies at 97

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Carl Erskine, who pitched two no-hitters for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was a 20-game winner in 1953 when he struck out a then-record 14 in the World Series, has died. Among the last survivors from the celebrated Brooklyn teams of the 1950s, Erskine spent his entire major league career with the Dodgers. He helped them win five National League pennants from 1948-59. Erskine won Game 3 of the 1953 World Series, beating the Yankees 3-2. He appeared in five World Series, with the Dodgers beating the Yankees in 1955 for their only championship in Brooklyn. Erksine died Tuesday in his hometown of Anderson, Indiana, according to a hospital official. He was 97.

A woman who accused Trevor Bauer of sex assault is now charged with defrauding ex-MLB player

PHOENIX (AP) — An Arizona woman who accused former major league pitcher Trevor Bauer of sexual assault has been charged with defrauding the baseball player. An indictment unsealed Monday in Maricopa County Superior Court names Bauer as one of two victims. It charges the woman with felony fraud and theft by extortion but doesn't provide specific details about the alleged scheme. The woman sued Bauer in 2022 and accused him of rape two years earlier. Bauer has never been arrested or charged and said Tuesday in a video statement that he is innocent. Bauer was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023 and has been trying to revive his major league career.

Mbappé scores twice as PSG beats Barcelona to reverse 1st-leg loss and reach Champions League semis

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Kylian Mbappé has scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain reversed its first-leg loss at home to return to the Champions League semifinals with a 4-1 win over Barcelona. PSG took advantage of a first-half red card to Barcelona defender Ronaldo Araujo to advance 6-4 on aggregate and keep its title hopes alive in Mbappé's last season in Paris. Former Barcelona forward Ousmane Dembélé and Vitinha also scored for PSG after Araujo was sent off in the 29th minute for fouling Bradley Barcola to stop a breakaway. Barcelona had gotten off to a good start and opened the scoring with a goal by Raphinha in the 12th.

Dortmund digs deep to beat Atlético 4-2 and reach Champions League semifinals with 5-4 aggregate win

DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Marcel Sabitzer scored late to send Borussia Dortmund into the Champions League semifinals with a helter-skelter 4-2 win over Atlético Madrid. Dortmund had to come from behind twice over two legs to advance 5-4 on aggregate after losing the first leg of the quarterfinal 2-1 in Madrid. Julian Brandt opened the scoring Tuesday to level the tie before Sabitzer set up Ian Maatsen to give Dortmund a 2-0 lead on the night. But a Mats Hummels own goal and goal from substitute Joaquín Correa put the Spanish side back in front on aggregate. Then Sabitzer set up Niclas Füllkrug in the 71st minute and scored himself three minutes later to send Dortmund into the last four.

		Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)

		Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	2:10 p.m.	

		Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	5:40 p.m.	

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701494597443.png" alt="Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024." />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines and News for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024.</figcaption>
 </figure>Local Sports for April 17th, 2024 with Rob Dreher:<div><iframe title="April 17th, 2024 Early Morning Sports" 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=479e2-15e9c44-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>AP Sports Summary for April 17th, 2024.<div><iframe title="April 17th, 2024 AP Sports in a Minute" 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=63r4i-15e9b9a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Royals vs White Sox game postpone because of rain.CHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch in the second game.The Kings eliminate the Warriors from play-in tournament with 118-94 winSACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Keegan Murray scored 32 points, De'Aaron Fox added 24 and the Sacramento Kings stayed alive in the play-in tournament, eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 118-94 victory. Sacramento advanced to play at New Orleans on Friday night with a chance to return to the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Western Conference after snapping an NBA record 16-year playoff drought last season. The loss kept Golden State out of the playoffs for the third time in the past five seasons, including two eliminations in the play-in tournament.Zion Williamson's injury dampens his otherwise dominant postseason debut for the PelicansNEW ORLEANS (AP) — Zion Williamson's 40-point, 11-rebound showing in his NBA postseason debut ended in a worrisome way for the New Orleans Pelicans. He missed the final three minutes of a 110-106 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference play-in tournament because of a left leg injury. Williamson is due for imaging Wednesday and his status is unclear heading into a do-or-die play-in finale against Sacramento on Friday night to the decide the eighth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Williamson missed most of his first four seasons because of a series of injuries but played in 70 games this season.LeBron James and the Lakers beat Pelicans in play-in, earn a playoff rematch with the NuggetsNEW ORLEANS (AP) — LeBron James had 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds, and the Los Angeles Lakers secured a playoff berth with a 110-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in tournament. Zion Williamson had 40 points and 11 rebounds in his NBA postseason debut. But shortly after tying the game on a driving layup with 3:19 to go, Williamson went to the locker room with an unspecified leg injury. Anthony Davis had 20 points and 15 rebounds. De'Angelo Russell scored 21, hitting five 3-pointers. The Lakers open the playoffs Saturday at Denver. The Pelicans will host Sacramento on Friday with the winner receiving the No. 8 seed.Oshie scores game-winner into empty net as Capitals make playoffs by beating FlyersPHILADELPHIA (AP) — T.J. Oshie scored into an empty net in the rare situation of a team pulling its goaltender in a tie game, and the Washington Capitals are in the playoffs after beating the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1. Philadelphia coach John Tortorella pulled goalie Samuel Ersson for an extra attacker because his team needed to win in regulation to keep its hopes alive. Oshie's goal with exactly 3 minutes left came perhaps a minute after Detroit scored to force overtime in Montreal, eliminating the Flyers. The Capitals will face the NHL-best New York Rangers in the first round.Philadelphia 76ers set to start another playoff run with an ailing Joel EmbiidPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joel Embiid is again dealing with injuries headed into the NBA playoffs. Embiid tweaked his surgically-repaired left knee last week and sat out the regular-season finale. Sixers coach Nick Nurse remained hopeful that Embiid would be ready to start Wednesday in the NBA play-in tournament game against Miami. The 76ers finished 31-8 this season with Embiid and a woeful 16-27 without him. The Sixers would earn the No. 7 seed and play the New York Knicks in the first round if they beat the Heat. A loss would mean they have to win the next play-in game on Friday to clinch the No. 8 seed.USA Basketball fills the 12 available slots for the Paris Olympics roster, AP sources sayLeBron James plans to go back to the Olympics. Stephen Curry is planning on going for the first time. Kevin Durant will go there with his eye on history. And they're just part of a star-studded roster the Americans have assembled for the Paris Games. USA Basketball has gotten confirmations from 12 players — James, Curry, Durant, Bam Adebayo, Devin Booker, Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Davis, Jrue Holiday, Tyrese Haliburton, Anthony Edwards and Kawhi Leonard — that they will accept invitations to be on the Olympic roster. That's according to three people with knowledge of the decisions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the roster had not been released.Carl Erskine, Dodgers pitcher and last surviving member of 'Boys of Summer,' dies at 97LOS ANGELES (AP) — Carl Erskine, who pitched two no-hitters for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was a 20-game winner in 1953 when he struck out a then-record 14 in the World Series, has died. Among the last survivors from the celebrated Brooklyn teams of the 1950s, Erskine spent his entire major league career with the Dodgers. He helped them win five National League pennants from 1948-59. Erskine won Game 3 of the 1953 World Series, beating the Yankees 3-2. He appeared in five World Series, with the Dodgers beating the Yankees in 1955 for their only championship in Brooklyn. Erksine died Tuesday in his hometown of Anderson, Indiana, according to a hospital official. He was 97.A woman who accused Trevor Bauer of sex assault is now charged with defrauding ex-MLB playerPHOENIX (AP) — An Arizona woman who accused former major league pitcher Trevor Bauer of sexual assault has been charged with defrauding the baseball player. An indictment unsealed Monday in Maricopa County Superior Court names Bauer as one of two victims. It charges the woman with felony fraud and theft by extortion but doesn't provide specific details about the alleged scheme. The woman sued Bauer in 2022 and accused him of rape two years earlier. Bauer has never been arrested or charged and said Tuesday in a video statement that he is innocent. Bauer was released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023 and has been trying to revive his major league career.Mbappé scores twice as PSG beats Barcelona to reverse 1st-leg loss and reach Champions League semisBARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Kylian Mbappé has scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain reversed its first-leg loss at home to return to the Champions League semifinals with a 4-1 win over Barcelona. PSG took advantage of a first-half red card to Barcelona defender Ronaldo Araujo to advance 6-4 on aggregate and keep its title hopes alive in Mbappé's last season in Paris. Former Barcelona forward Ousmane Dembélé and Vitinha also scored for PSG after Araujo was sent off in the 29th minute for fouling Bradley Barcola to stop a breakaway. Barcelona had gotten off to a good start and opened the scoring with a goal by Raphinha in the 12th.Dortmund digs deep to beat Atlético 4-2 and reach Champions League semifinals with 5-4 aggregate winDORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Marcel Sabitzer scored late to send Borussia Dortmund into the Champions League semifinals with a helter-skelter 4-2 win over Atlético Madrid. Dortmund had to come from behind twice over two legs to advance 5-4 on aggregate after losing the first leg of the quarterfinal 2-1 in Madrid. Julian Brandt opened the scoring Tuesday to level the tie before Sabitzer set up Ian Maatsen to give Dortmund a 2-0 lead on the night. But a Mats Hummels own goal and goal from substitute Joaquín Correa put the Spanish side back in front on aggregate. Then Sabitzer set up Niclas Füllkrug in the 71st minute and scored himself three minutes later to send Dortmund into the last four.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	6	Houston	2	Final	St. Louis	3	Oakland	2	Final	Seattle	3	Cincinnati	1	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Detroit	4	Texas	2	Final	Baltimore	11	Minnesota	3	Final	Toronto	5	N.Y. Yankees	4	Final	Tampa Bay	7	L.A. Angels	6	Final	Cleveland	10	Boston	7	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Philadelphia	5	Colorado	0	Final	Miami	6	San Francisco	3	Final	N.Y. Mets	3	Pittsburgh	1	Final	San Diego	6	Milwaukee	3	Final	L.A. Dodgers	6	Washington	2	Final	Arizona	12	Chicago Cubs	11	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	L.A. Lakers	110	New Orleans	106	Final	Sacramento	118	Golden State	94	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Columbus	6	Carolina	3	Final	Ottawa	3	Boston	1	Final	Washington	2	Philadelphia	1	Final SO	Detroit	5	Montreal	4	Final	Florida	5	Toronto	2	Final	Winnipeg	4	Seattle	3	Final	Vegas	3	Chicago	1	Final	Vancouver	4	Calgary	1	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		Atlanta	at	Houston	2:10 p.m.			St. Louis	at	Oakland	3:37 p.m.			Cincinnati	at	Seattle	4:10 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		Minnesota	at	Baltimore	1:05 p.m.			Texas	at	Detroit	1:10 p.m.			Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	2:10 p.m.			N-Y Yankees	at	Toronto	3:07 p.m.			Kansas City	at	Chi White Sox	5:40 p.m.			L-A Angels	at	Tampa Bay	6:50 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Boston	7:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		San Francisco	at	Miami	12:10 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	N-Y Mets	1:10 p.m.			San Diego	at	Milwaukee	1:10 p.m.			Washington	at	L-A Dodgers	3:10 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	Arizona	3:40 p.m.			Colorado	at	Philadelphia	6:05 p.m.	___NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Miami	at	Philadelphia	7 p.m.			Atlanta	at	Chicago	9:30 p.m.	___NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE		Pittsburgh	at	N-Y Islanders	7 p.m.			Toronto	at	Tampa Bay	7 p.m.			St. Louis	at	Dallas	9:30 p.m.			Edmonton	at	Arizona	10 p.m.	___

📢📰🎧 Sports Headlines for Wednesday

CHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night has been postponed because of rain.

It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader.

Kansas City beat Chicago&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-white-sox-score-lugo-9f51d9b56efae644197f5d1fac620cd7">2-0 in the series opener</a>&nbsp;on Monday night.

White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals.

Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde start the second game.

The rainout creates an extra day of rest for Royals catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-perez-b495ebd2ed1ecafd912c4f9f03d40e47">Salvador Perez</a>, who is dealing with a groin injury.

Perez was out of the starting lineup before the game was postponed, but manager Matt Quatraro said he was available off the bench.

“He came in early, got worked on ... did his hitting and running,” Quatraro said. “Really we’re just trying to use discretion a little bit. Hopefully he feels better tomorrow.”

Perez, who turns 34 next month, had an MRI on Monday that showed a mild groin strain. He got hurt during Kansas City’s series finale at the New York Mets on Sunday.

Perez is batting .339 with four homers and 15 RBIs in 16 games this season. He hit his 250th career homer on Saturday.

The slumping White Sox finalized a minor league contract with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-pham-716910dbbf8db68d1d8d96e572302d83">Tommy Pham</a>. The veteran outfielder will report to Triple-A Charlotte on Wednesday, giving him some time to ramp up before joining the big league team.

“He’s got a track record in this game, and he’s a really good hitter,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. “He’s got the ability to control the strike zone. ... He’s got an edge to him that I really like.”

Pham hit .256 with 16 homers and 68 RBIs in 129 games last season. He was traded from the New York Mets to Arizona on Aug. 1, and he helped the Diamondbacks make a surprising run to the World Series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651935218662.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SARAH EFFRESS Associated PressCHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday night has been postponed because of rain.It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader.Kansas City beat Chicago&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-white-sox-score-lugo-9f51d9b56efae644197f5d1fac620cd7">2-0 in the series opener</a>&nbsp;on Monday night.White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals.Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde start the second game.The rainout creates an extra day of rest for Royals catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-perez-b495ebd2ed1ecafd912c4f9f03d40e47">Salvador Perez</a>, who is dealing with a groin injury.Perez was out of the starting lineup before the game was postponed, but manager Matt Quatraro said he was available off the bench.“He came in early, got worked on ... did his hitting and running,” Quatraro said. “Really we’re just trying to use discretion a little bit. Hopefully he feels better tomorrow.”Perez, who turns 34 next month, had an MRI on Monday that showed a mild groin strain. He got hurt during Kansas City’s series finale at the New York Mets on Sunday.Perez is batting .339 with four homers and 15 RBIs in 16 games this season. He hit his 250th career homer on Saturday.The slumping White Sox finalized a minor league contract with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-pham-716910dbbf8db68d1d8d96e572302d83">Tommy Pham</a>. The veteran outfielder will report to Triple-A Charlotte on Wednesday, giving him some time to ramp up before joining the big league team.“He’s got a track record in this game, and he’s a really good hitter,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. “He’s got the ability to control the strike zone. ... He’s got an edge to him that I really like.”Pham hit .256 with 16 homers and 68 RBIs in 129 games last season. He was traded from the New York Mets to Arizona on Aug. 1, and he helped the Diamondbacks make a surprising run to the World Series.

⚾ Royals rained out Tuesday; will play two Wednesday

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29.

“I am excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2024 draft while maintaining my college eligibility,” Furphy said. “I am so grateful to Coach Self and the whole team at KU for the opportunity they gave me to be a part of this incredible program. From moving to a new country, to participating in the NCAA Tournament, this year has flown by faster than I could have ever imagined.

“I love my teammates and am so proud of everything we accomplished this season. Everyone at Kansas has made me feel at home.

“What I have learned at Kansas has changed the way I think about basketball, and no matter what happens from here, I’ll always be a Jayhawk.

A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.

“Being 22 hours from home, Johnny took a big leap to come play at Kansas,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He had a solid freshman year and really had a terrific second half of the season. He is a fan favorite. He wants to test the NBA draft process and we encourage him to do just that.”

Earlier this month, Furphy was named to the Australian Boomers team and will be competing for a roster spot on the Australian Team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.

Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.

Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713320281007.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29.“I am excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2024 draft while maintaining my college eligibility,” Furphy said. “I am so grateful to Coach Self and the whole team at KU for the opportunity they gave me to be a part of this incredible program. From moving to a new country, to participating in the NCAA Tournament, this year has flown by faster than I could have ever imagined.“I love my teammates and am so proud of everything we accomplished this season. Everyone at Kansas has made me feel at home.“What I have learned at Kansas has changed the way I think about basketball, and no matter what happens from here, I’ll always be a Jayhawk.Thank you and Rock Chalk!”A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.“Being 22 hours from home, Johnny took a big leap to come play at Kansas,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He had a solid freshman year and really had a terrific second half of the season. He is a fan favorite. He wants to test the NBA draft process and we encourage him to do just that.”Earlier this month, Furphy was named to the Australian Boomers team and will be competing for a roster spot on the Australian Team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.Prior to Kansas, Furphy played prep basketball for Centre of Excellence (CoE) – Australia’s development program hosted at the Australian Institute of Sport alongside NBA Global Academy. He reclassified for the 2023 class and garnered attention when he participated in various NBA Academy events in the United States. Additionally, Furphy played for Victoria at the 2023 Australia-U20 Championship.

🏀 MBB: KU's Furphy declares for the NBA Draft

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the first time in seven years, the Hutchinson Salthawks baseball team has won four straight games following a sweep of Salina South on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field.

The Salthawks won game one in a five inning run-rule victory, 12-0, before winning game two, 5-4.

Hutchinson is now 8-7 on the season and secures its most wins since the 2017 team won nine games. The 2017 team also was the last to win four straight games.

Game 1 (5 Innings): Hutchinson 12, Salina South 0 Cole Bleything pitched a gem for the Salthawks, going all five innings and allowing just three hits to earn the win.

Lakin Franz helped pace the offense with a 2 for 2 ballgame with four RBI. Franz delivered in his first at-bat, driving in three with a double to right field.

Hutchinson also got multi-hit games from Carter Morgan (2 for 3, 3 RBI), Caiden Beavers (2 for 3) and Jack Davis (2 for 3). Landon Parks drove in two with an RBI single in the second inning.

Salina South - 000 00x x - 0 3 2 Hutchinson - 362 1xx x - 12 11 1 W: Bleything. L: Bernhardt. Time: 1:21.

Game 2: Hutchinson 5, Salina South 4 Although the Salthawks only managed one hit in the game, Hutchinson was able to take advantage of some Cougar errors to score five runs in the win.

The lone hit for the Salthawks came off the bat of Parks in the second inning.

Salina South jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning, but Hutchinson came back to eventually tie and then take the 4-3 lead after a three-run third inning.&nbsp;

Eastyn Keeler was credited with the win for the Salthawks, going 4 1/3 innings, allowing four runs. Franz recorded the final eight outs on the mound, including getting out of some traffic on the base path in the seventh.&nbsp;

Salina South - 300 100 0 - 4 8 4 Hutchinson - 023 000 x - 5 1 2 W: Keeler. L: Harris. Time: 1:52.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713320183790.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson pitcher Cole Bleything delivers a pitch in game one of the doubleheader against Salina South on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson pitcher Cole Bleything delivers a pitch in game one of the doubleheader against Salina South on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — For the first time in seven years, the Hutchinson Salthawks baseball team has won four straight games following a sweep of Salina South on Tuesday at Hobart-Detter Field.The Salthawks won game one in a five inning run-rule victory, 12-0, before winning game two, 5-4.Hutchinson is now 8-7 on the season and secures its most wins since the 2017 team won nine games. The 2017 team also was the last to win four straight games.Game 1 (5 Innings): Hutchinson 12, Salina South 0 Cole Bleything pitched a gem for the Salthawks, going all five innings and allowing just three hits to earn the win.Lakin Franz helped pace the offense with a 2 for 2 ballgame with four RBI. Franz delivered in his first at-bat, driving in three with a double to right field.Hutchinson also got multi-hit games from Carter Morgan (2 for 3, 3 RBI), Caiden Beavers (2 for 3) and Jack Davis (2 for 3). Landon Parks drove in two with an RBI single in the second inning.Salina South - 000 00x x - 0 3 2 Hutchinson - 362 1xx x - 12 11 1 W: Bleything. L: Bernhardt. Time: 1:21.--Game 2: Hutchinson 5, Salina South 4 Although the Salthawks only managed one hit in the game, Hutchinson was able to take advantage of some Cougar errors to score five runs in the win.The lone hit for the Salthawks came off the bat of Parks in the second inning.Salina South jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning, but Hutchinson came back to eventually tie and then take the 4-3 lead after a three-run third inning.&nbsp;Eastyn Keeler was credited with the win for the Salthawks, going 4 1/3 innings, allowing four runs. Franz recorded the final eight outs on the mound, including getting out of some traffic on the base path in the seventh.&nbsp;Salina South - 300 100 0 - 4 8 4 Hutchinson - 023 000 x - 5 1 2 W: Keeler. L: Harris. Time: 1:52.

⚾ Salthawks sweep Salina South, win fourth straight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawks will host the Salina South Cougars today at 4 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field.

Catch all the action on hutchpost.com and the NFHS Network. Sean Boston with the call and&nbsp; Hutch High junior Matt Peterson will provide the NFHS Network and Hutchpost.com video stream for all the home games. 

Catch all the road games here on hutchpost.com with audio only.

The broadcast is available and archived on the Hutch High&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/">NFHS Video Stream</a>. The stream&nbsp;is free but you must register to watch if you don't have a NFHS Network account.&nbsp;

Here is a "How to Video" to assist you in setting up your NFHS Network account. &nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yzsjAoVP5Ts">CLICK HERE</a>

First pitch will be at 4 p.m. today on hutchpost.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713179992726.png" alt="GameDay vs Salina South - April 16th, 2024 @ Hobart-Detter Field" />
 <figcaption>GameDay vs Salina South - April 16th, 2024 @ Hobart-Detter Field</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawks will host the Salina South Cougars today at 4 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field.Catch all the action on hutchpost.com and the NFHS Network. Sean Boston with the call and&nbsp; Hutch High junior Matt Peterson will provide the NFHS Network and Hutchpost.com video stream for all the home games. Catch all the road games here on hutchpost.com with audio only.The broadcast is available and archived on the Hutch High&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/">NFHS Video Stream</a>. The stream&nbsp;is free but you must register to watch if you don't have a NFHS Network account.&nbsp;

Here is a "How to Video" to assist you in setting up your NFHS Network account. &nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yzsjAoVP5Ts">CLICK HERE</a>First pitch will be at 4 p.m. today on hutchpost.com.<div><iframe src="https://player.nfhsnetwork.com/#/events/hutchinson-high-school-hutchinson-ks/gam7935698517" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" width="640" height="360"></iframe>


</div>

🎧🎥⚾ Hutch High hosts Salina South for doubleheader today

NEW YORK (AP) — Whitey Herzog, the gruff and ingenious Hall of Fame manager who guided the St. Louis Cardinals to three pennants and a World Series title in the 1980s and perfected an intricate, nail-biting strategy known as "Whiteyball," has died. He was 92.

Cardinals spokesman Brian Bartow said Tuesday the team had been informed of his death by Herzog's family. The team was not yet sure whether it happened Monday night or Tuesday. Herzog had been at Busch Stadium on April 4 for the Cardinals' home opener.

A crew-cut, pot-bellied tobacco chewer who had no patience for the "buddy-buddy" school of management, Herzog joined the Cardinals in 1980 and helped end the team's decade-plus pennant drought by adapting it to the artificial surface and distant fences of Busch Memorial Stadium. A typical Cardinals victory under Herzog was a low-scoring, 1-run game, sealed in the final innings by a “bullpen by committee,” relievers who might be replaced after a single pitch, or temporarily shifted to the outfield, then brought back to the mound.

The Cardinals had power hitters in George Hendrick and Jack Clark, but they mostly relied on the speed and resourcefulness of switch-hitters Vince Coleman and Willie McGee, the acrobat fielding of shortstop and future Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and the effective pitching of starters such as John Tudor and Danny Cox and relievers Todd Worrell, Ken Dayley and Jeff Lahti. For the '82 champions, Herzog didn't bother rotating relievers, but simply brought in future Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter to finish the job.

"They (the media) seemed to think there was something wrong with the way we played baseball, with speed and defense and line-drive hitters," Herzog wrote in his memoir "White Rat: A Life in Baseball," published in 1987. "They called it 'Whiteyball' and said it couldn't last."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713282597678.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Whitey Herzog, the gruff and ingenious Hall of Fame manager who guided the St. Louis Cardinals to three pennants and a World Series title in the 1980s and perfected an intricate, nail-biting strategy known as "Whiteyball," has died. He was 92.Cardinals spokesman Brian Bartow said Tuesday the team had been informed of his death by Herzog's family. The team was not yet sure whether it happened Monday night or Tuesday. Herzog had been at Busch Stadium on April 4 for the Cardinals' home opener.A crew-cut, pot-bellied tobacco chewer who had no patience for the "buddy-buddy" school of management, Herzog joined the Cardinals in 1980 and helped end the team's decade-plus pennant drought by adapting it to the artificial surface and distant fences of Busch Memorial Stadium. A typical Cardinals victory under Herzog was a low-scoring, 1-run game, sealed in the final innings by a “bullpen by committee,” relievers who might be replaced after a single pitch, or temporarily shifted to the outfield, then brought back to the mound.The Cardinals had power hitters in George Hendrick and Jack Clark, but they mostly relied on the speed and resourcefulness of switch-hitters Vince Coleman and Willie McGee, the acrobat fielding of shortstop and future Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and the effective pitching of starters such as John Tudor and Danny Cox and relievers Todd Worrell, Ken Dayley and Jeff Lahti. For the '82 champions, Herzog didn't bother rotating relievers, but simply brought in future Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter to finish the job."They (the media) seemed to think there was something wrong with the way we played baseball, with speed and defense and line-drive hitters," Herzog wrote in his memoir "White Rat: A Life in Baseball," published in 1987. "They called it 'Whiteyball' and said it couldn't last."Under Herzog, the Cards won pennants in 1982, 1985 and 1987, and the World Series in 1982, when they edged the Milwaukee Brewers in seven games. Herzog managed the Kansas City Royals to division titles in 1976-78, but they lost each time in the league championship to the New York Yankees.Overall, Herzog was a manager for 18 seasons, compiling a record of 1,281 wins and 1,125 losses. He was named Manager of the Year in 1985 and voted into the Hall by the Veterans Committee in 2010, his plaque noting his "stern, yet good-natured style," and his emphasis on speed, pitching and defense. Just before he formally entered the Hall, the Cardinals retired his uniform number, 24.When asked about the secrets of managing, he would reply a sense of humor and a good bullpen.Dorrel Norman Elvert Herzog was born in New Athens, Illinois, a blue-collar community that would shape him long after he left. He excelled in baseball and basketball and was open to skipping the occasional class to take in a Cardinals game. Signed up by the Yankees, he was a center fielder who discovered that he had competition from a prospect born just weeks before him, Mickey Mantle.Herzog never played for the Yankees, but he did get to know manager Casey Stengel, another master shuffler of players who became a key influence. The light-haired Herzog was named "The White Rat" because of his resemblance to Yankees pitcher Bob "The White Rat" Kuzava.Like so many successful managers, Herzog was a mediocre player, batting just .257 over eight seasons and playing several positions. His best year was with Baltimore in 1961, when he hit .291. He also played for the Washington Senators, Kansas City Athletics and Detroit Tigers, with whom he ended his playing career, in 1963."Baseball has been good to me since I quit trying to play it," he liked to say.After working as a scout and coach, Herzog was hired in 1967 by the New York Mets as director of player development, with Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan among the future stars he helped bring along. The Mets liked him well enough to designate him the successor to Gil Hodges, but when the manager died suddenly in 1972 the job went to Yogi Berra. Herzog instead debuted with the Texas Rangers the following season, finishing just 47-91 before being replaced by Billy Martin. He managed the Angels for a few games in 1974 and joined the Royals the following season, his time with Kansas City peaking in 1977 when the team finished 102-60.Many players spoke warmly of Herzog, but he didn’t hesitate to rid his teams of those he no longer wanted, dumping such Cardinals stars as outfielder Lonnie Smith and starting pitcher Joaquin Andujar. One trade worked out brilliantly: Before the 1982 season, he exchanged .300 hitting shortstop Garry Templeton, whom Herzog had chastised for not hustling, for the Padres' light-hitting Ozzie Smith, now widely regarded as the best defensive shortstop in history. Another deal was less far successful: Gold Glove first baseman Keith Hernandez, with whom Herzog had feuded, to the Mets in the middle of 1983 for pitchers Neil Allen and Rick Ownbey. Hernandez led New York to the World Series title in 1986, while Allen and Ownbey were soon forgotten.Herzog was just as tough on himself, resigning in the middle of 1990 because he was “embarrassed” by the team’s 33-47 record. He served as a consultant and general manager for the Angels in the early '90s and briefly considered managing the Red Sox before the 1997 season.If the '82 championship was the highlight of his career, his greatest blow was the '85 series. The Cardinals were up 3 games to 2 against his former team, the Royals, and in Game 6 led 1-0 going into the bottom of the ninth, with Worrell brought in to finish the job.Jorge Orta led off and grounded a 0-2 pitch between the mound and first base. In one of the most famous blown calls in baseball history, he was ruled safe by umpire Don Denkinger, even though replays showed first baseman Jack Clark's toss to Worrell was in time. The Cardinals never recovered. Kansas City rallied for two runs to tie the series and crushed the Cards 11-0 in Game 7."No, I'm not bitter at Denkinger," Herzog told the AP years later. "He's a good guy, he knows he made a mistake, and he's a human being. It happened at an inopportune time but I do think they ought to have instant replay in the playoffs and World Series."As if testing Herzog's humor, the Hall inducted him alongside an umpire, Doug Harvey."I don't know why he should get in," Herzog joked at the time. "Doug kicked me out of more games than any other umpire."