<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Friday, July 11, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=689w5-1901ea6-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Monarchs dominate Bat Cats; ⚾ Wind Surge lose to Missions; 🏀 KSHSAA unveils new state tourney format

Former Kansas men’s basketball coach Ted Owens will be honored with the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award during a black-tie banquet Aug. 4 at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

The award, previously known as the Jim Thorpe Lifetime Achievement Award, is the highest honor presented by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. It recognizes individuals whose careers and lives have left a lasting impact and inspired others to pursue excellence. Owens will become just the 11th recipient since the honor was established in 1989.

A native of Hollis, Oklahoma, Owens was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. He joins a prestigious list of past Lifetime Achievement honorees that includes Johnny Bench, Barry Switzer, Tom Osborne, Allie Reynolds and Abe Lemons.

Owens played three seasons at the University of Oklahoma (1949-51) and began his coaching career at Cameron State Junior College, now Cameron University, in Lawton. He led Cameron’s basketball program to a 93-24 record in four seasons, reaching the national junior college semifinals three times. He also coached the Cameron baseball team to the 1958 NJCAA national title.

Owens joined the Kansas coaching staff in 1960 and took over as head coach in 1964 following the resignation of Dick Harp. He led the Jayhawks for 19 seasons, compiling a 348-182 record from 1964 to 1983. He ranks fourth all-time in program wins behind Bill Self, Phog Allen and Roy Williams.

During his tenure, Kansas claimed six Big Eight regular-season titles and appeared in seven NCAA Tournaments. Owens led the Jayhawks to the Final Four in 1971 and 1974 and to the NIT championship game in 1968. He was named Big Eight Coach of the Year five times and earned National Coach of the Year honors from Basketball Weekly in 1978.

Owens coached five All-Americans at Kansas: Jo Jo White, Darnell Valentine, Dave Robisch, Bud Stallworth and Walter Wesley, all of whom have their jerseys retired in Allen Fieldhouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752188254895.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Former Kansas men’s basketball coach Ted Owens will be honored with the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award during a black-tie banquet Aug. 4 at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.The award, previously known as the Jim Thorpe Lifetime Achievement Award, is the highest honor presented by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. It recognizes individuals whose careers and lives have left a lasting impact and inspired others to pursue excellence. Owens will become just the 11th recipient since the honor was established in 1989.A native of Hollis, Oklahoma, Owens was inducted into the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in 2009. He joins a prestigious list of past Lifetime Achievement honorees that includes Johnny Bench, Barry Switzer, Tom Osborne, Allie Reynolds and Abe Lemons.Owens played three seasons at the University of Oklahoma (1949-51) and began his coaching career at Cameron State Junior College, now Cameron University, in Lawton. He led Cameron’s basketball program to a 93-24 record in four seasons, reaching the national junior college semifinals three times. He also coached the Cameron baseball team to the 1958 NJCAA national title.Owens joined the Kansas coaching staff in 1960 and took over as head coach in 1964 following the resignation of Dick Harp. He led the Jayhawks for 19 seasons, compiling a 348-182 record from 1964 to 1983. He ranks fourth all-time in program wins behind Bill Self, Phog Allen and Roy Williams.During his tenure, Kansas claimed six Big Eight regular-season titles and appeared in seven NCAA Tournaments. Owens led the Jayhawks to the Final Four in 1971 and 1974 and to the NIT championship game in 1968. He was named Big Eight Coach of the Year five times and earned National Coach of the Year honors from Basketball Weekly in 1978.Owens coached five All-Americans at Kansas: Jo Jo White, Darnell Valentine, Dave Robisch, Bud Stallworth and Walter Wesley, all of whom have their jerseys retired in Allen Fieldhouse.

🏀 Former KU coach Ted Owens to receive Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award

GREAT BEND, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs continued their dominant summer with an emphatic 11-1 win over the Great Bend Bat Cats in a Jayhawk Collegiate League game Thursday night at Al Burns Memorial Field.

Leading 11-1 in the top of the sixth inning, play was halted due to inclement weather and never resumed, giving Hutchinson (23-5) the win and keeping the Monarchs firmly atop the Jayhawk Collegiate League standings. Hutchinson has a 4.5 game lead over the Derby Twins with six games remaining in the regular season.

Hutchinson wasted no time getting on the board, scoring in the top of the first on a sacrifice fly from Joey Senstock to bring home JJ Spafford. After stranding the bases loaded in the second, the Monarchs broke the game wide open with a two-out rally in the third. Jackson Legg tripled and scored on a single by Jake Knox before Spafford delivered a two-run double to make it 4-0.

The Monarchs piled on in the fourth. Tyson Vassart plated two more with a double to center, and Legg added another two-RBI knock — this time a double — to stretch the lead to 8-0. Spafford capped the six-run inning with a two-run single that became three runs scored after a fielding error.

Spafford finished the night 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Jeter Worthley also tallied three hits going 3 for 3 and an RBI as part of Hutchinson’s 14-hit attack.

On the mound, Pryce Bender earned the win with 4.1 innings of one-run ball, striking out three while working around four walks. Daegan Vinduska got the final two outs of the fifth to preserve the 10-run cushion.

Great Bend (15-12) managed just one run and struck out four times. The Bat Cats avoided the shutout in the fifth on a groundout by Luke Nohinek.

Hutchinson will travel to Kingman tonight to take on the Islanders at Islander park before returning to Hobart-Detter on Saturday night. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752228831784.png" alt="Final - Hutchinson handles Bat Cats on Thursday night in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>Final - Hutchinson handles Bat Cats on Thursday night in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>GREAT BEND, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs continued their dominant summer with an emphatic 11-1 win over the Great Bend Bat Cats in a Jayhawk Collegiate League game Thursday night at Al Burns Memorial Field.Leading 11-1 in the top of the sixth inning, play was halted due to inclement weather and never resumed, giving Hutchinson (23-5) the win and keeping the Monarchs firmly atop the Jayhawk Collegiate League standings. Hutchinson has a 4.5 game lead over the Derby Twins with six games remaining in the regular season.Hutchinson wasted no time getting on the board, scoring in the top of the first on a sacrifice fly from Joey Senstock to bring home JJ Spafford. After stranding the bases loaded in the second, the Monarchs broke the game wide open with a two-out rally in the third. Jackson Legg tripled and scored on a single by Jake Knox before Spafford delivered a two-run double to make it 4-0.The Monarchs piled on in the fourth. Tyson Vassart plated two more with a double to center, and Legg added another two-RBI knock — this time a double — to stretch the lead to 8-0. Spafford capped the six-run inning with a two-run single that became three runs scored after a fielding error.Spafford finished the night 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Jeter Worthley also tallied three hits going 3 for 3 and an RBI as part of Hutchinson’s 14-hit attack.On the mound, Pryce Bender earned the win with 4.1 innings of one-run ball, striking out three while working around four walks. Daegan Vinduska got the final two outs of the fifth to preserve the 10-run cushion.Great Bend (15-12) managed just one run and struck out four times. The Bat Cats avoided the shutout in the fifth on a groundout by Luke Nohinek.Hutchinson will travel to Kingman tonight to take on the Islanders at Islander park before returning to Hobart-Detter on Saturday night. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m.

⚾ Big Fourth Inning leads Hutchinson Monarchs past Great Bend Bat Cats

INDIANAPOLIS — With more states incorporating the javelin into high school track and field, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has voted to include javelin implement construction specifications in the NFHS Track and Field Rules Book beginning with the 2026 season.

The move was among 11 rule changes recommended by the NFHS Track and Field Rules Committee during its June 16-18 meeting in Indianapolis and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.

“Moving the implement construction specifications for the javelin into the rules book provides greater clarity, consistency and accessibility for high school coaches, athletes and meet officials,” said Julie Cochran, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Track and Field Rules Committee. “This approach maintains appropriate equipment standards while promoting ease of understanding, consistent enforcement and fairness across all levels of high school competition.”

The committee also approved several changes aimed at minimizing risk of injury during competition. One of the most significant adjustments allows a health-care professional to assess a downed competitor during a race without the athlete being disqualified, so long as no physical aid is provided in advancing along the course.

In high jump and pole vault, athletes entering a competition more than 60 minutes after the first jump will now be granted a brief warm-up period—1½ minutes for high jump and two minutes for pole vault—under the supervision of an official. Previously, athletes could only warm up after passing three consecutive heights, a rule that sometimes left competitors inactive for long stretches at large meets.

To further promote safety in vertical jumps, language was added to require padding on “items above ground level,” such as raised concrete or wooden surfaces, which pose a greater risk of injury during falls.

A full listing of changes will be available at <a href="http://www.nfhs.org">nfhs.org</a>. Print and digital versions of the 2026 NFHS Track and Field Rules Book will be released in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744996285714.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS — With more states incorporating the javelin into high school track and field, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has voted to include javelin implement construction specifications in the NFHS Track and Field Rules Book beginning with the 2026 season.The move was among 11 rule changes recommended by the NFHS Track and Field Rules Committee during its June 16-18 meeting in Indianapolis and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.“Moving the implement construction specifications for the javelin into the rules book provides greater clarity, consistency and accessibility for high school coaches, athletes and meet officials,” said Julie Cochran, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Track and Field Rules Committee. “This approach maintains appropriate equipment standards while promoting ease of understanding, consistent enforcement and fairness across all levels of high school competition.”The committee also approved several changes aimed at minimizing risk of injury during competition. One of the most significant adjustments allows a health-care professional to assess a downed competitor during a race without the athlete being disqualified, so long as no physical aid is provided in advancing along the course.In high jump and pole vault, athletes entering a competition more than 60 minutes after the first jump will now be granted a brief warm-up period—1½ minutes for high jump and two minutes for pole vault—under the supervision of an official. Previously, athletes could only warm up after passing three consecutive heights, a rule that sometimes left competitors inactive for long stretches at large meets.To further promote safety in vertical jumps, language was added to require padding on “items above ground level,” such as raised concrete or wooden surfaces, which pose a greater risk of injury during falls.Other approved changes include:<ul>
 <li>Rule 3-2-3: Games committees now have the authority to determine the distance of takeoff boards in horizontal jumps, similar to their role in setting starting heights for vertical jumps.
</li><li>Indoor Events: The 200-meter dash has been added as an option to replace the 300-meter dash in indoor meets (Rule 9-1-1), and all indoor relay exchange zones will now follow a uniform 20-meter standard (Rule 9-6-1).
</li><li>Rule 4-6-6c: Athletes are prohibited from wearing audio or video devices during races, trials, or in restricted areas—aligning track and field with other NFHS sport rules.
</li><li>Rule 6-2-2 Notes: A new note clarifies that the time limit for consecutive attempts applies both within a height and at height changes in field events.
</li><li>Rule 6-3-2b4(a): Metric measurements for breaking ties have been revised for clarity and consistency in meet management.
</li>
 </ul>A full listing of changes will be available at <a href="http://www.nfhs.org">nfhs.org</a>. Print and digital versions of the 2026 NFHS Track and Field Rules Book will be released in October.

👟 NFHS adds javelin specifications, alters field event guidelines for 2026

INDIANAPOLIS — High school softball players will no longer be allowed to transmit or record audio or video from the playing surface under a new rule change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The addition of Rule 1-8-6 to the NFHS Softball Rules Book further clarifies the use of electronic devices after a 2024 update permitted electronic communication for coaching purposes. The change takes effect for the 2026 season and was the primary revision adopted during the NFHS Softball Rules Committee’s annual meeting, held June 15-17 in Indianapolis. The NFHS Board of Directors approved the committee’s recommendations.

"While increased media exposure has positively influenced the growth and visibility of softball, the committee determined that the potential risks associated with players transmitting or recording audio or video through devices during live play outweighed the benefits,” said Sandy Searcy, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Softball Rules Committee. “As wearable technology continues to evolve, the committee believed it was essential to establish clear guidelines regarding the permissible use of such devices to ensure the safety and integrity of the game."

Other notable changes include an update to umpire uniform guidelines. Under Rule 10-4-2, the acceptable color for umpire slacks has been changed from “heather gray” to “charcoal gray” in response to manufacturing trends.

“Manufacturers have ceased production of heather gray umpire pants, and this update will help guide umpires toward selecting pant options that are actively being produced and readily available,” Searcy said.

In addition, Rule 8 in the 2026 Softball Rules Book will be reformatted for improved clarity. Longer sections will be broken into smaller parts, and article references will be added to associated penalties and effects to enhance comprehension.

A full list of rule changes will be posted at <a href="https://www.nfhs.org">www.nfhs.org</a> under the “Sports” section for softball.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715731471839.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS — High school softball players will no longer be allowed to transmit or record audio or video from the playing surface under a new rule change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.The addition of Rule 1-8-6 to the NFHS Softball Rules Book further clarifies the use of electronic devices after a 2024 update permitted electronic communication for coaching purposes. The change takes effect for the 2026 season and was the primary revision adopted during the NFHS Softball Rules Committee’s annual meeting, held June 15-17 in Indianapolis. The NFHS Board of Directors approved the committee’s recommendations."While increased media exposure has positively influenced the growth and visibility of softball, the committee determined that the potential risks associated with players transmitting or recording audio or video through devices during live play outweighed the benefits,” said Sandy Searcy, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Softball Rules Committee. “As wearable technology continues to evolve, the committee believed it was essential to establish clear guidelines regarding the permissible use of such devices to ensure the safety and integrity of the game."Other notable changes include an update to umpire uniform guidelines. Under Rule 10-4-2, the acceptable color for umpire slacks has been changed from “heather gray” to “charcoal gray” in response to manufacturing trends.“Manufacturers have ceased production of heather gray umpire pants, and this update will help guide umpires toward selecting pant options that are actively being produced and readily available,” Searcy said.In addition, Rule 8 in the 2026 Softball Rules Book will be reformatted for improved clarity. Longer sections will be broken into smaller parts, and article references will be added to associated penalties and effects to enhance comprehension.A full list of rule changes will be posted at <a href="https://www.nfhs.org">www.nfhs.org</a> under the “Sports” section for softball.

🥎 NFHS unveils 2026 softball rule modifications

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas State High School Activities Association has unveiled a new format and finalized sites for the 2026 and 2027 state basketball tournaments, bringing sweeping changes aimed at consolidating classes and enhancing the championship experience.

Beginning in 2026, multiple classes will share championship venues, a first since 1953. KSHSAA officials say the updated format reflects input from school administrators who favored grouping classes for semifinal and final rounds to create a more unified and high-energy environment.

In 2026, the semifinal and final sites are as follows:

“The KSHSAA is an association of member schools, and the school leaders have asked for class consolidation of championships,” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This new format will achieve that result and provide a greater focus on the student-athletes competing at the highest level.”

All state tournaments will begin with quarterfinal games played March 10-11, 2026, and March 9-10, 2027. The semifinals and finals will follow March 12-14, 2026, and March 11-13, 2027.

Quarterfinals will be held at seven venues across five cities:

Quarterfinal matchups will be determined by the proximity to the higher seed, not by classification. Games involving schools more than 250 miles apart may be moved to centrally located venues. State brackets will remain unchanged after the quarterfinals.

“With the top four seeds earning the right to play close to home, the quarterfinal rounds will provide a better environment and experience, allowing more friends and family to attend,” said KSHSAA Assistant Executive Director Kyle Doperalski. “This new format is a win for teams and school communities.”

The new approach mirrors recent changes in championship soccer and football formats, which consolidate title games to increase visibility and fan engagement. KSHSAA says combining semifinal and final rounds for multiple classes will reduce travel burdens and make it easier for fans, coaches, and media to follow the action.

The changes come in response to a 2022 survey of member schools, in which each class expressed support for consolidating sites at the state tournament level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752161602657.jpeg" alt="The Hutchinson Sports Arena will play host to the KSHSAA Class 3A and Class 4A state basketball semifinals and finals in 2026. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>The Hutchinson Sports Arena will play host to the KSHSAA Class 3A and Class 4A state basketball semifinals and finals in 2026. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas State High School Activities Association has unveiled a new format and finalized sites for the 2026 and 2027 state basketball tournaments, bringing sweeping changes aimed at consolidating classes and enhancing the championship experience.Beginning in 2026, multiple classes will share championship venues, a first since 1953. KSHSAA officials say the updated format reflects input from school administrators who favored grouping classes for semifinal and final rounds to create a more unified and high-energy environment.In 2026, the semifinal and final sites are as follows:<ul>
 <li>1A Division I: United Wireless Arena, Dodge City
</li><li>2A and 1A Division II: White Auditorium, Emporia
</li><li>3A and 4A: Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson
</li><li>5A and 6A: Koch Arena, Wichita
</li>
 </ul>In 2027, the tournament realigns again:<ul>
 <li>1A Divisions I and II: Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Salina
</li><li>2A and 4A: Bramlage Coliseum, Manhattan
</li><li>3A: Hutchinson Sports Arena, Hutchinson
</li><li>5A and 6A: White Auditorium, Emporia
</li>
 </ul>“The KSHSAA is an association of member schools, and the school leaders have asked for class consolidation of championships,” said KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick. “This new format will achieve that result and provide a greater focus on the student-athletes competing at the highest level.”All state tournaments will begin with quarterfinal games played March 10-11, 2026, and March 9-10, 2027. The semifinals and finals will follow March 12-14, 2026, and March 11-13, 2027.Quarterfinals will be held at seven venues across five cities:<ul>
 <li>United Wireless Arena, Dodge City
</li><li>Tony’s Pizza Events Center, Salina
</li><li>Mabee Arena at Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina
</li><li>Koch Arena, Wichita
</li><li>Garvey Center at Friends University, Wichita
</li><li>White Auditorium, Emporia
</li><li>KCKCC Fieldhouse, Kansas City
</li>
 </ul>Quarterfinal matchups will be determined by the proximity to the higher seed, not by classification. Games involving schools more than 250 miles apart may be moved to centrally located venues. State brackets will remain unchanged after the quarterfinals.“With the top four seeds earning the right to play close to home, the quarterfinal rounds will provide a better environment and experience, allowing more friends and family to attend,” said KSHSAA Assistant Executive Director Kyle Doperalski. “This new format is a win for teams and school communities.”The new approach mirrors recent changes in championship soccer and football formats, which consolidate title games to increase visibility and fan engagement. KSHSAA says combining semifinal and final rounds for multiple classes will reduce travel burdens and make it easier for fans, coaches, and media to follow the action.The changes come in response to a 2022 survey of member schools, in which each class expressed support for consolidating sites at the state tournament level.

🏀 Sports Arena to host 3A, 4A state semifinals and finals under new KSHSAA tournament format

🎧⚾ Royals sweep Pirates; ⚾ Monarchs walk-off Bat Cats; ⚾ Missions beat Wind Surge

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The magic of Hobart-Detter Field struck again Wednesday night, as the Hutchinson Monarchs (22-5) walked off the Great Bend Bat Cats 3-2 in a dramatic finish to a tightly contested Jayhawk Collegiate League matchup.

Trailing 2-1 entering the bottom of the ninth, Hutchinson rallied behind a clutch at-bat from catcher Jake Knox, who delivered a two-run walk-off double to right field to score Drew Bugner and Dylan Bell, sending the Monarchs and the home crowd into celebration.

Bugner drew a leadoff walk and advanced to second on a wild pitch. After an out and a strikeout, Bell worked a walk to set the stage for Knox’s heroics. Facing a 2-2 count, Knox fouled off a pair of pitches before driving a liner to right that plated both runners and sealed the Monarchs' comeback.

The Bat Cats struck first with a solo homer by Tony Moore in the second and added another run in the third on a sacrifice fly by Kyle Walker to take a 2-0 lead. Hutchinson scratched across a run in the sixth when Tyler Mitchell tripled and later scored on a single by Jacob Gutierrez.

Pitching was sharp on both sides throughout the night. Monarchs starter Brayden McClure went six strong innings, allowing just two runs on four hits while striking out three and walking none. Kyle Chamberlain and Riley Dickey combined for three scoreless innings of relief, with Dickey earning the win.

Great Bend’s J Field went 6.2 innings and giving up one run, before C Kunz allowed the final two runs in the ninth taking the tough-luck loss after going just 1.2 innings giving up the two runs on one hit, walking 2 and sticking out two.

The win extends Hutchinson’s dominance at Hobart-Detter and keeps them atop the league standings as they near the final stretch of the regular season.

The same two teams go at it tonight in Great Bend. First pitch at 7pm. Video is available on the Bat Cat's YouTube Channel.

The Monarchs will continue their season traveling to Kingman on Friday the back home later this week before looking to build on their 22-5 record and lock in a high seed for the upcoming NBC World Series in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752132544768.png" alt="Final - Hutch Monarchs get walk off win over the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Wednesday night." />
 <figcaption>Final - Hutch Monarchs get walk off win over the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Wednesday night.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The magic of Hobart-Detter Field struck again Wednesday night, as the Hutchinson Monarchs (22-5) walked off the Great Bend Bat Cats 3-2 in a dramatic finish to a tightly contested Jayhawk Collegiate League matchup.Trailing 2-1 entering the bottom of the ninth, Hutchinson rallied behind a clutch at-bat from catcher Jake Knox, who delivered a two-run walk-off double to right field to score Drew Bugner and Dylan Bell, sending the Monarchs and the home crowd into celebration.Bugner drew a leadoff walk and advanced to second on a wild pitch. After an out and a strikeout, Bell worked a walk to set the stage for Knox’s heroics. Facing a 2-2 count, Knox fouled off a pair of pitches before driving a liner to right that plated both runners and sealed the Monarchs' comeback.The Bat Cats struck first with a solo homer by Tony Moore in the second and added another run in the third on a sacrifice fly by Kyle Walker to take a 2-0 lead. Hutchinson scratched across a run in the sixth when Tyler Mitchell tripled and later scored on a single by Jacob Gutierrez.Pitching was sharp on both sides throughout the night. Monarchs starter Brayden McClure went six strong innings, allowing just two runs on four hits while striking out three and walking none. Kyle Chamberlain and Riley Dickey combined for three scoreless innings of relief, with Dickey earning the win.Great Bend’s J Field went 6.2 innings and giving up one run, before C Kunz allowed the final two runs in the ninth taking the tough-luck loss after going just 1.2 innings giving up the two runs on one hit, walking 2 and sticking out two.The win extends Hutchinson’s dominance at Hobart-Detter and keeps them atop the league standings as they near the final stretch of the regular season.The same two teams go at it tonight in Great Bend. First pitch at 7pm. Video is available on the Bat Cat's YouTube Channel.The Monarchs will continue their season traveling to Kingman on Friday the back home later this week before looking to build on their 22-5 record and lock in a high seed for the upcoming NBC World Series in Wichita.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs get walk off win over the Great Bend Bat Cats in thrilling finish at Hobart-Detter

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice, Jac Caglianone hit the longest measured homer by a Royals rookie, and Kansas City beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Wednesday night to complete a three-game sweep.

Perez broke a 3-3 tie in the eighth inning with his longball off Isaac Mattson (2-1). He opened the scoring with a 444-foot shot to center in the second.

But the most impressive homer of the game belonged to Caglianone —&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1943109192639762689">a 466-foot, two-run drive</a>&nbsp;to center in the fourth against Bailey Falter. It was the longest homer by a Royals rookie since Statcast started tracking in 2015 and the fourth-longest by any Kansas City player at Kauffman Stadium.

The Royals have won six of seven overall. They did not have a multi-homer game this season before doing it Monday night against Pittsburgh, and now they've done it three games in a row. Kansas City hit nine homers in the series.

Pittsburgh fell to 0-6 on its nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star break after getting shut out in three straight games at Seattle.

Perez had his second multi-homer game of the season and 19th of his career, extending his franchise record.

Lucas Erceg (4-2) worked a scoreless eighth and Carlos Estevez pitched the ninth for his 25th save.

Ke'Bryan Hayes had a two-run single in the Pirates' three-run sixth.

<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1943129622788354333">Perez sent the first pitch of the eighth</a>&nbsp;to the walkway just short of the fountains in right-center.

Kansas City swept a series at home for the first time since a four-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox in early May.

Pirates: Begin a three-game series at Minnesota on Friday.

Royals: Host the New York Mets for three games starting Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752142974949.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone watches his two-run home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Jac Caglianone watches his two-run home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez homered twice, Jac Caglianone hit the longest measured homer by a Royals rookie, and Kansas City beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Wednesday night to complete a three-game sweep.Perez broke a 3-3 tie in the eighth inning with his longball off Isaac Mattson (2-1). He opened the scoring with a 444-foot shot to center in the second.But the most impressive homer of the game belonged to Caglianone —&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1943109192639762689">a 466-foot, two-run drive</a>&nbsp;to center in the fourth against Bailey Falter. It was the longest homer by a Royals rookie since Statcast started tracking in 2015 and the fourth-longest by any Kansas City player at Kauffman Stadium.The Royals have won six of seven overall. They did not have a multi-homer game this season before doing it Monday night against Pittsburgh, and now they've done it three games in a row. Kansas City hit nine homers in the series.Pittsburgh fell to 0-6 on its nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star break after getting shut out in three straight games at Seattle.Perez had his second multi-homer game of the season and 19th of his career, extending his franchise record.Lucas Erceg (4-2) worked a scoreless eighth and Carlos Estevez pitched the ninth for his 25th save.Ke'Bryan Hayes had a two-run single in the Pirates' three-run sixth.<h2>Key moment</h2><a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1943129622788354333">Perez sent the first pitch of the eighth</a>&nbsp;to the walkway just short of the fountains in right-center.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City swept a series at home for the first time since a four-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox in early May.<h2>Up next</h2>Pirates: Begin a three-game series at Minnesota on Friday.Royals: Host the New York Mets for three games starting Friday.

⚾ Perez and Caglianone power Royals to win over Pirates 

NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball plans to use its robot umpire technology for ball-strike challenges in Tuesday’s All-Star Game at Atlanta, another step toward possible regular-season use next season.

MLB said Wednesday it intends to make the All-Star announcement Thursday.

Teams won 52.2% of their ball/strike challenges during the spring training test, with 617 of 1,182 challenges successful in the 288 exhibition games using the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-robot-umpires-abs-9034454b5a795262bf97446ff38d0361">Automated Ball-Strike System</a>. ABS was installed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-robot-umpires-experiment-manfred-ecba44e95b37e6f21824cbb58fe69707">13 spring training ballparks hosting 19 teams</a>, and an animation of the pitch was shown on video boards displaying the challenge result for spectators to see.

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said last month that the ABS system was likely to be considered for regular-season use by the 11-man competition committee, which includes six management representatives.

“I do think that we’re going to pursue the possibility of change in that process and we’ll see what comes out at the end of that,” he said. “The teams are really positive about ABS. I do have that unscientific system that I use: my email traffic. And my distinct impression is that using ABS in spring training has made people more prone to complain of balls and strike calls via email to me referencing the need for ABS.”

During the 2024 regular season, 10.9% of called pitches in the strike zone were ruled balls and 6.3% of called pitches outside of the strike zone were ruled strikes, according to MLB Statcast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740110201518.png" alt="MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during a news conference Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)" />
 <figcaption>MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during a news conference Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Major League Baseball plans to use its robot umpire technology for ball-strike challenges in Tuesday’s All-Star Game at Atlanta, another step toward possible regular-season use next season.MLB said Wednesday it intends to make the All-Star announcement Thursday.Teams won 52.2% of their ball/strike challenges during the spring training test, with 617 of 1,182 challenges successful in the 288 exhibition games using the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-robot-umpires-abs-9034454b5a795262bf97446ff38d0361">Automated Ball-Strike System</a>. ABS was installed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-robot-umpires-experiment-manfred-ecba44e95b37e6f21824cbb58fe69707">13 spring training ballparks hosting 19 teams</a>, and an animation of the pitch was shown on video boards displaying the challenge result for spectators to see.Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said last month that the ABS system was likely to be considered for regular-season use by the 11-man competition committee, which includes six management representatives.“I do think that we’re going to pursue the possibility of change in that process and we’ll see what comes out at the end of that,” he said. “The teams are really positive about ABS. I do have that unscientific system that I use: my email traffic. And my distinct impression is that using ABS in spring training has made people more prone to complain of balls and strike calls via email to me referencing the need for ABS.”During the 2024 regular season, 10.9% of called pitches in the strike zone were ruled balls and 6.3% of called pitches outside of the strike zone were ruled strikes, according to MLB Statcast.

⚾ MLB plans to use robot umpire challenge system in All-Star Game next week

FRISCO, Texas — Kansas head football coach Lance Leipold answered questions from media members at the Big 12 Media Days held at The Star on Wednesday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751912421409.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>FRISCO, Texas — Kansas head football coach Lance Leipold answered questions from media members at the Big 12 Media Days held at The Star on Wednesday afternoon.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qKPXZc-Oovk?si=yAOCU8Z6T6Rlg3Gn" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/72goCqVcWl0?si=9goq04DBQPX3-cJr" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥🏈 WATCH: KU head coach Lance Leipold at Big 12 Media Days

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec is now accepting registrations for its fall youth sports programs, offering a variety of recreational opportunities for children of all ages and skill levels.

This season’s lineup includes flag football, soccer, and volleyball, each designed to teach fundamentals, promote teamwork, and keep kids active in a fun and supportive environment. Scholarships are available for all programs to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate.

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/vzn3ol/bolmynhe/7wtvg9">Flag Football</a> offers a safe, non-contact alternative to tackle football while still teaching essential aspects of the game. Divisions are available for grades K-1, 2-3 and 4-6. Practices are scheduled based on volunteer coach availability, and games are held Sunday afternoons at Don Michael Field, located at 17th and Severance. The registration fee is $48.

<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/vzn3ol/bolmynhe/jawvg9">Soccer &amp; Lil’ Kickers</a> is open to youth ages 3 to 12, with a focus on skill-building and fun. Lil’ Kickers (ages 3-6) introduces young players to the sport in a playful setting for $35. Recreational soccer for ages 7-12 costs $48 and emphasizes dribbling, passing, and teamwork.

<a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson-ks/catalog/index/a6ee909d2ac3aaa7537cf21bd93a2945?filter=c2VhcmNoPVlvdXRoJTIwVm9sbGV5YmFsbA==">Volleyball &amp; Lil’ Diggers</a> helps children develop core volleyball skills like serving and passing. Lil’ Diggers is open to 1st and 2nd graders for $35, while the recreational league for 3rd through 6th graders is $48.

The registration deadline for all sports is Aug. 15 for in-person sign-ups and Aug. 17 for online registrations. For more information or to register, visit <a href="http://www.hutchrec.com">www.hutchrec.com</a> or stop by the Hutch Rec at 17 E. 1st Ave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718748509156.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec is now accepting registrations for its fall youth sports programs, offering a variety of recreational opportunities for children of all ages and skill levels.This season’s lineup includes flag football, soccer, and volleyball, each designed to teach fundamentals, promote teamwork, and keep kids active in a fun and supportive environment. Scholarships are available for all programs to ensure every child has the opportunity to participate.<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/vzn3ol/bolmynhe/7wtvg9">Flag Football</a> offers a safe, non-contact alternative to tackle football while still teaching essential aspects of the game. Divisions are available for grades K-1, 2-3 and 4-6. Practices are scheduled based on volunteer coach availability, and games are held Sunday afternoons at Don Michael Field, located at 17th and Severance. The registration fee is $48.<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/vzn3ol/bolmynhe/jawvg9">Soccer &amp; Lil’ Kickers</a> is open to youth ages 3 to 12, with a focus on skill-building and fun. Lil’ Kickers (ages 3-6) introduces young players to the sport in a playful setting for $35. Recreational soccer for ages 7-12 costs $48 and emphasizes dribbling, passing, and teamwork.<a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson-ks/catalog/index/a6ee909d2ac3aaa7537cf21bd93a2945?filter=c2VhcmNoPVlvdXRoJTIwVm9sbGV5YmFsbA==">Volleyball &amp; Lil’ Diggers</a> helps children develop core volleyball skills like serving and passing. Lil’ Diggers is open to 1st and 2nd graders for $35, while the recreational league for 3rd through 6th graders is $48.The registration deadline for all sports is Aug. 15 for in-person sign-ups and Aug. 17 for online registrations. For more information or to register, visit <a href="http://www.hutchrec.com">www.hutchrec.com</a> or stop by the Hutch Rec at 17 E. 1st Ave.

🏈⚽🏐 Hutch Rec opens fall youth sports registration for flag football, soccer, volleyball

HUTCHINSON, Kan.  — The Hutchinson Monarchs (21-5) will pay host to the Great Bend Bat Cats tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.&nbsp; This game is the final game of a six-game home stand for the Monarchs who are currently in 1st place of the Jayhawk Conference Summer League.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752074431917.png" alt="Game Day - Hutch Monarchs vs Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field at 7pm" />
 <figcaption>Game Day - Hutch Monarchs vs Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field at 7pm</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs (21-5) will pay host to the Great Bend Bat Cats tonight at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.&nbsp; This game is the final game of a six-game home stand for the Monarchs who are currently in 1st place of the Jayhawk Conference Summer League.Hutchinson is slated for 19 home games this season, all of which will be streamed live on HutchPost.com and the MonarchsLive.tv channel. Sean Boston of Eagle Media will handle the play-by-play tonight, with Matt Peterson on the video stream.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751389681632.png" alt="AudioFetch App is available either on your Android Device or Apple Device" />
 <figcaption>AudioFetch App is available either on your Android Device or Apple Device</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751389624426.png" alt="Just download AudioFetch from either your Google Play store or Apple Store" />
 <figcaption>Just download AudioFetch from either your Google Play store or Apple Store</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2483378?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs wraps up home stand with game versus Great Bend Bat Cats

The Kansas City Royals have signed former Cy Young winner, <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/keuchda01.shtml">Dallas Keuchel</a> to a minor league deal, per ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Keuchel, 37, was designated for assignment by the Milwaukee Brewers in July of 2024 after four starts with a 5.40 ERA. He then elected free agency.

He spent seven years with the Houston Astros from 2012-18, where he went 76-63 with a 3.66 ERA in 192 appearances, 183 of which were starts. Keuchel won the American League Cy Young Award in 2015 after going 20-8 with a 2.48 ERA and a 1.017 WHIP. He went 35-28 over his final three years with the Astros, before signing a one-year deal with the Atlanta Braves in 2019.

Over his final six seasons, Keuchel went 31-45 and never won more than nine games. He played with five different teams over his final six seasons, the Braves, Twins, Diamondbacks, Brewers and Rangers.

Keuchel held a workout with the Royals last week and hit 92 miles per hour on his fastball. The Royals will start him in Triple-A with the hopes of getting the left-handed pitcher to the big leagues this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694083714074.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City Royals have signed former Cy Young winner, <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/keuchda01.shtml">Dallas Keuchel</a> to a minor league deal, per ESPN's Jeff Passan.Keuchel, 37, was designated for assignment by the Milwaukee Brewers in July of 2024 after four starts with a 5.40 ERA. He then elected free agency.He spent seven years with the Houston Astros from 2012-18, where he went 76-63 with a 3.66 ERA in 192 appearances, 183 of which were starts. Keuchel won the American League Cy Young Award in 2015 after going 20-8 with a 2.48 ERA and a 1.017 WHIP. He went 35-28 over his final three years with the Astros, before signing a one-year deal with the Atlanta Braves in 2019.Over his final six seasons, Keuchel went 31-45 and never won more than nine games. He played with five different teams over his final six seasons, the Braves, Twins, Diamondbacks, Brewers and Rangers.Keuchel held a workout with the Royals last week and hit 92 miles per hour on his fastball. The Royals will start him in Triple-A with the hopes of getting the left-handed pitcher to the big leagues this season.

⚾ Royals sign former Cy Young winner to minor league deal

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Wednesday, July 9, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wkmap-18ff1c1-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals take series; ⚾ Giesbrecht dominant in Monarchs' win; ⚾ Wind Surge win series opener

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Ethan Giesbrecht struck out 11 batters over seven dominant innings to lead the Hutchinson Monarchs to an 8-1 victory over the Haysville Aviators on Tuesday night at Hobart-Detter Field.

Giesbrecht, who scattered just three hits without issuing a walk, earned the win in one of the strongest pitching performances of the summer for the Monarchs. The right-hander fanned at least one batter in each inning he pitched and worked out of early trouble in the second inning after back-to-back hits.

Camden Cornelius closed it out with two scoreless innings in relief, striking out two while giving up two hits.

The Monarchs (21-5) wasted no time getting on the board, scoring three runs in the bottom of the first. After an error and a single by Jacob Gutierrez, Drew Bugner drove in two with a single to right. Keegan Demmer added a sacrifice fly to cap the inning.

Hutchinson added two more runs in the second on a fielder’s choice by Gutierrez and another sac fly from AJ Mustow. The Monarchs pushed the lead to 6-1 in the third when Demmer scored on a double play.

Haysville (17-10) got its lone run in the second inning on an RBI groundout from Tanner Fallwell. Aviators starter Beau Grant took the loss, surrendering six runs over three innings before giving way to the bullpen.

The Monarchs added two more insurance runs in the fourth and eighth innings, including a run-scoring groundout from JJ Spafford.

Hutchinson has now won 10 of its last 12 games and will wrap up a six-game homestand tonight against the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field.

First pitch is set for 7 p.m. Fans can follow the action live on HutchPost.com.

Two special events are scheduled for late next week. The Monarchs will be hosting a food drive on July 18th to benefit the Reno County Food Bank, so bring your non-perishable food items that night, which is the last regular season game versus the Wichita Wildcats. Also, mark your calendars for July 19th as Hobart-Detter Field will be the host site for the Jayhawk Collegiant League All-Star game beginning at 7pm.

The NBC World Series begins on July 24th at Eco Stadium in Wichita. Pool seeding will be announced soon. By finishing last season as a finalist, the Monarchs receive an automatic bid, but still are awaiting seeding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752059252822.png" alt="Final - Monarchs stay red hot with convincing win over Haysville." />
 <figcaption>Final - Monarchs stay red hot with convincing win over Haysville.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Ethan Giesbrecht struck out 11 batters over seven dominant innings to lead the Hutchinson Monarchs to an 8-1 victory over the Haysville Aviators on Tuesday night at Hobart-Detter Field.Giesbrecht, who scattered just three hits without issuing a walk, earned the win in one of the strongest pitching performances of the summer for the Monarchs. The right-hander fanned at least one batter in each inning he pitched and worked out of early trouble in the second inning after back-to-back hits.Camden Cornelius closed it out with two scoreless innings in relief, striking out two while giving up two hits.The Monarchs (21-5) wasted no time getting on the board, scoring three runs in the bottom of the first. After an error and a single by Jacob Gutierrez, Drew Bugner drove in two with a single to right. Keegan Demmer added a sacrifice fly to cap the inning.Hutchinson added two more runs in the second on a fielder’s choice by Gutierrez and another sac fly from AJ Mustow. The Monarchs pushed the lead to 6-1 in the third when Demmer scored on a double play.Haysville (17-10) got its lone run in the second inning on an RBI groundout from Tanner Fallwell. Aviators starter Beau Grant took the loss, surrendering six runs over three innings before giving way to the bullpen.The Monarchs added two more insurance runs in the fourth and eighth innings, including a run-scoring groundout from JJ Spafford.Hutchinson has now won 10 of its last 12 games and will wrap up a six-game homestand tonight against the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field.First pitch is set for 7 p.m. Fans can follow the action live on HutchPost.com.Two special events are scheduled for late next week. The Monarchs will be hosting a food drive on July 18th to benefit the Reno County Food Bank, so bring your non-perishable food items that night, which is the last regular season game versus the Wichita Wildcats. Also, mark your calendars for July 19th as Hobart-Detter Field will be the host site for the Jayhawk Collegiant League All-Star game beginning at 7pm.The NBC World Series begins on July 24th at Eco Stadium in Wichita. Pool seeding will be announced soon. By finishing last season as a finalist, the Monarchs receive an automatic bid, but still are awaiting seeding.

⚾ Hutchinson's Giesbrecht dominates Aviators as Monarchs roll on

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Loftin hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the seventh inning, then won it in the ninth with a one-out RBI single as the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Tuesday night.

Rookie Jac Caglianone homered for the Royals,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942737397579669574">a 421-foot drive</a>&nbsp;leading off the second inning that was his first extra-base hit in 14 games at Kauffman Stadium. He had been 5 for 46 at home before Tuesday.

Pittsburgh's Oneil Cruz tied it in the fourth with&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942743739161596193">a 458-foot shot</a>&nbsp;over the fountains in right field on the day he was announced as a participant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oneil-cruz-pirates-home-run-derby-e0d48db4b4f6792bbca476b590a1dac1">in next-week's Home Run Derby</a>.

Nick Gonzales put the Pirates ahead with a homer in the top of the seventh before Loftin's drive made it 3-2.

Bryan Reynolds tied it with an RBI grounder in the eighth.

Maikel Garcia singled leading off the ninth against Dennis Santana (2-2) and Salvador Perez followed with a base hit. With one out, Isaac Mattson came in and gave up Loftin's game-ending hit on a 1-0 fastball.

The Pirates fell to 0-5 to start their nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star Break. Kansas City has won five of six.

Carlos Estevez (3-2) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City.

The Pirates' Mitch Keller and the Royals' Seth Lugo, both rumored to be trade candidates before the July 31 deadline, were nearly identical through six innings. Each allowed one run on three hits with five strikeouts.

The Pirates loaded the bases with one out in the eighth against Lucas Erceg, who gave up Reynolds' tying fielder's-choice grounder and then retired Gonzales on another groundball.

The Royals had their second straight multi-homer game after not having done that all season.

The teams complete their three-game series Wednesday night with Pittsburgh's Bailey Falter (6-4, 3.69 ERA) facing Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.36).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752030418171.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Loftin hit a go-ahead two-run homer in the seventh inning, then won it in the ninth with a one-out RBI single as the Kansas City Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 on Tuesday night.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F722270243999771%2F&show_text=false&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Rookie Jac Caglianone homered for the Royals,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942737397579669574">a 421-foot drive</a>&nbsp;leading off the second inning that was his first extra-base hit in 14 games at Kauffman Stadium. He had been 5 for 46 at home before Tuesday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F1427201965159858%2F&show_text=false&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Pittsburgh's Oneil Cruz tied it in the fourth with&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1942743739161596193">a 458-foot shot</a>&nbsp;over the fountains in right field on the day he was announced as a participant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oneil-cruz-pirates-home-run-derby-e0d48db4b4f6792bbca476b590a1dac1">in next-week's Home Run Derby</a>.Nick Gonzales put the Pirates ahead with a homer in the top of the seventh before Loftin's drive made it 3-2.Bryan Reynolds tied it with an RBI grounder in the eighth.Maikel Garcia singled leading off the ninth against Dennis Santana (2-2) and Salvador Perez followed with a base hit. With one out, Isaac Mattson came in and gave up Loftin's game-ending hit on a 1-0 fastball.The Pirates fell to 0-5 to start their nine-game trip ahead of the All-Star Break. Kansas City has won five of six.Carlos Estevez (3-2) worked a scoreless ninth for Kansas City.The Pirates' Mitch Keller and the Royals' Seth Lugo, both rumored to be trade candidates before the July 31 deadline, were nearly identical through six innings. Each allowed one run on three hits with five strikeouts.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Pirates loaded the bases with one out in the eighth against Lucas Erceg, who gave up Reynolds' tying fielder's-choice grounder and then retired Gonzales on another groundball.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals had their second straight multi-homer game after not having done that all season.<h2>Up next</h2>The teams complete their three-game series Wednesday night with Pittsburgh's Bailey Falter (6-4, 3.69 ERA) facing Kris Bubic (7-6, 2.36).

⚾ Nick Loftin hits 2-run homer in 7th as Royals beat the Pirates

FRISCO, Texas — Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman answered questions from media members at the Big 12 Media Days held at The Star on Tuesday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751912421409.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>FRISCO, Texas — Kansas State head football coach Chris Klieman answered questions from media members at the Big 12 Media Days held at The Star on Tuesday afternoon.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aOzET1hEiL4?si=pDLGamDWYlPaDipq" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yFZ0nNaVcng?si=TiikK7tcOWTtYfmm" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥🏈 WATCH: K-State head coach Chris Klieman at Big 12 Media Days

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751894793421.png" alt="Game Day - Hutchinson Monarchs vs Haysville Aviators tonight at Hobart-Detter." />
 <figcaption>Game Day - Hutchinson Monarchs vs Haysville Aviators tonight at Hobart-Detter.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2483377?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs homestand continues with Haysville Aviators

INDIANAPOLIS — High school baseball teams across the country will be required to use a double first base beginning with the 2027 season, following a rules change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The NFHS Baseball Rules Committee proposed the revision during its annual meeting June 8-10 in Indianapolis. It was one of 10 rule changes accepted by the NFHS Board of Directors aimed at improving player safety and game flow.

The new rule, added as Rule 1-2-9, requires a double first base with a white and a contrasting colored portion. The white half must be placed in fair territory, while the colored portion lies in foul territory, divided by the foul line. The two parts must be adjacent with no gap between them.

Additional rules, including Rule 8-2-2a, outline how the double base is to be used. Batter-runners are expected to use the colored half on plays at first base unless a fielder moves into foul territory to receive a throw, in which case the white portion may be used. Batter-runners must return to the white base when leading off or tagging up. The rule also addresses interference and obstruction involving improper use of the double base during collisions.

Other changes include updates to Rule 2-5-1h and Rule 2-16-1h to clarify when a batted ball is fair or foul based on contact with either portion of the base.

The committee also approved a new restriction on defensive meetings under Rule 3-4-6. Teams are allowed one player-to-player meeting per half-inning, defined in Rule 2-10-3 as a discussion involving two or more defensive players. Additional meetings will be denied by umpires.

Uniform rules were also updated. Beginning in 2027, schools may include a name, logo, mascot or nickname on the uniform top or pants under Rule 1-4-4. Additionally, Rule 1-6-3 now prohibits players from wearing any audio or video recording devices during a game.

A full list of changes is available on the NFHS website at <a href="http://www.nfhs.org">www.nfhs.org</a>.

Baseball remains one of the most popular high school sports nationwide, with 471,701 boys participating at 16,146 schools, according to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748965004800.jpeg" alt="Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston</figcaption>
 </figure>INDIANAPOLIS — High school baseball teams across the country will be required to use a double first base beginning with the 2027 season, following a rules change approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations.The NFHS Baseball Rules Committee proposed the revision during its annual meeting June 8-10 in Indianapolis. It was one of 10 rule changes accepted by the NFHS Board of Directors aimed at improving player safety and game flow.The new rule, added as Rule 1-2-9, requires a double first base with a white and a contrasting colored portion. The white half must be placed in fair territory, while the colored portion lies in foul territory, divided by the foul line. The two parts must be adjacent with no gap between them.Additional rules, including Rule 8-2-2a, outline how the double base is to be used. Batter-runners are expected to use the colored half on plays at first base unless a fielder moves into foul territory to receive a throw, in which case the white portion may be used. Batter-runners must return to the white base when leading off or tagging up. The rule also addresses interference and obstruction involving improper use of the double base during collisions.Other changes include updates to Rule 2-5-1h and Rule 2-16-1h to clarify when a batted ball is fair or foul based on contact with either portion of the base.The committee also approved a new restriction on defensive meetings under Rule 3-4-6. Teams are allowed one player-to-player meeting per half-inning, defined in Rule 2-10-3 as a discussion involving two or more defensive players. Additional meetings will be denied by umpires.Uniform rules were also updated. Beginning in 2027, schools may include a name, logo, mascot or nickname on the uniform top or pants under Rule 1-4-4. Additionally, Rule 1-6-3 now prohibits players from wearing any audio or video recording devices during a game.A full list of changes is available on the NFHS website at <a href="http://www.nfhs.org">www.nfhs.org</a>.Baseball remains one of the most popular high school sports nationwide, with 471,701 boys participating at 16,146 schools, according to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey.

⚾ NFHS to require double first base in high school baseball starting in 2027

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Tuesday, July 8, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=yb9mu-18fda84-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals beat Pirates; ⚾ Monarchs stay hot; 🏈 Preseason All-Big 12 team released

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A bipartisan council of Kansas lawmakers voted Monday to extend by six months the deadline for the Missouri-based Kansas City Royals or the Kansas City Chiefs to accept economic development incentives from Kansas for construction of sports stadiums.

The Legislative Coordinating Council unanimously agreed to grant the reprieve so the Kansas Department of Commerce could present options for stadium deals to the LCC until Dec. 31, 2025.

A 2024 law that set the framework for issuance of STAR bonds to cover 70% of construction costs for one or both stadiums and support structures had a deadline of June 30, 2025. The statute gave the LCC authority to add another year to the timeline.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, recommended adoption of a six-month alternative for the presentation of formal proposals by the Department of Commerce to the LCC. He said he didn’t want the stadium issue to bleed into the 2026 session of the Legislature, which would convene in early January.

“We have had this law out there for a year now and each team has had a year to come to some type of conclusion,” Hawkins said. “Neither team has and quite frankly for the last month and a half, I have been very consistent across the board saying, ‘Let’s get it done.’ ”

He said he was persuaded to endorse a half-year extension because one of the teams waited from November to February for responses from the administration of Gov. Laura Kelly. Also, he said, the Kelly administration didn’t answer a proposal from a team — previously reported to be the Chiefs — for seven weeks.

“It doesn’t matter what team it was. That’s not fair to the teams, when they’re making proposals and they’re not getting responses back,” said Hawkins, who is a candidate for state insurance commissioner.

The LCC adopted the six-month extension but also voted to broaden the window of opportunity for stadium deals with Kansas to June 30, 2026. That could be a technicality, because the LCC could decide on behalf of the full House and Senate not to consider recommendations submitted after that date.

Missouri offered to finance up to 50% of the cost to renovate or build new stadiums for the Royals and Chiefs. Both franchises have played at a Jackson County, Missouri, complex since the early 1970s.

Sen. Tim Shallenberger, a Baxter Springs Republican serving as the Senate’s vice president, said he didn’t want to force the Chiefs or Royals to abruptly wrap up a deal with Kansas.

“When I was younger, I was a banker,” Shallenberger said. “Putting a deal like this together is not easy. You have landowners that look at the deadlines that we put out and use that as leverage. You have the teams look at the deadlines we put out and use that as leverage. Approved by the LCC by this December seems a little quick to me.

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, convened the LCC meeting because he recently observed signs of progress during confidential negotiations involving the Chiefs.

“We weren’t interested in being a pawn and extending for no reason at all,” Masterson said. “The sense was as long as there’s legitimate, real conversations about the possibility of that relationship … we could move forward.”

Chiefs president Mark Donovan asked Kansas lawmakers to amend the deadline to continue negotiations with Kansas on building a stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and related business developments.

In the correspondence, Donovan said complexity, importance and scale of the project made it clear “more time is needed to bring the effort to full fruition.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751970881185.png" alt="Renowned sports architect David Manica shared renderings of a potential Kansas City, Kan., stadium development for the Kansas City Chiefs.(MANICA)" />
 <figcaption>Renowned sports architect David Manica shared renderings of a potential Kansas City, Kan., stadium development for the Kansas City Chiefs.(MANICA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/"></a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A bipartisan council of Kansas lawmakers voted Monday to extend by six months the deadline for the Missouri-based Kansas City Royals or the Kansas City Chiefs to accept economic development incentives from Kansas for construction of sports stadiums.The Legislative Coordinating Council unanimously agreed to grant the reprieve so the Kansas Department of Commerce could present options for stadium deals to the LCC until Dec. 31, 2025.A 2024 law that set the framework for issuance of STAR bonds to cover 70% of construction costs for one or both stadiums and support structures had a deadline of June 30, 2025. The statute gave the LCC authority to add another year to the timeline.House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, recommended adoption of a six-month alternative for the presentation of formal proposals by the Department of Commerce to the LCC. He said he didn’t want the stadium issue to bleed into the 2026 session of the Legislature, which would convene in early January.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751970834339.png" alt="House Speaker Dan Hawkins, shown hear speaking to members of the Kansas House, recommended to colleagues on the Legislative Coordinating Council to change the deadline to Dec. 31, 2025, for presentation by the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals of proposals to make use of STAR bonds to build new sports stadiums in Kansas. A 2024 law offering bonds to cover 70% of stadium costs expired June 30, 2025. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Dan Hawkins, shown hear speaking to members of the Kansas House, recommended to colleagues on the Legislative Coordinating Council to change the deadline to Dec. 31, 2025, for presentation by the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals of proposals to make use of STAR bonds to build new sports stadiums in Kansas. A 2024 law offering bonds to cover 70% of stadium costs expired June 30, 2025. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“We have had this law out there for a year now and each team has had a year to come to some type of conclusion,” Hawkins said. “Neither team has and quite frankly for the last month and a half, I have been very consistent across the board saying, ‘Let’s get it done.’ ”He said he was persuaded to endorse a half-year extension because one of the teams waited from November to February for responses from the administration of Gov. Laura Kelly. Also, he said, the Kelly administration didn’t answer a proposal from a team — previously reported to be the Chiefs — for seven weeks.“It doesn’t matter what team it was. That’s not fair to the teams, when they’re making proposals and they’re not getting responses back,” said Hawkins, who is a candidate for state insurance commissioner.The LCC adopted the six-month extension but also voted to broaden the window of opportunity for stadium deals with Kansas to June 30, 2026. That could be a technicality, because the LCC could decide on behalf of the full House and Senate not to consider recommendations submitted after that date.Missouri offered to finance up to 50% of the cost to renovate or build new stadiums for the Royals and Chiefs. Both franchises have played at a Jackson County, Missouri, complex since the early 1970s.Sen. Tim Shallenberger, a Baxter Springs Republican serving as the Senate’s vice president, said he didn’t want to force the Chiefs or Royals to abruptly wrap up a deal with Kansas.“When I was younger, I was a banker,” Shallenberger said. “Putting a deal like this together is not easy. You have landowners that look at the deadlines that we put out and use that as leverage. You have the teams look at the deadlines we put out and use that as leverage. Approved by the LCC by this December seems a little quick to me.Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, convened the LCC meeting because he recently observed signs of progress during confidential negotiations involving the Chiefs.“We weren’t interested in being a pawn and extending for no reason at all,” Masterson said. “The sense was as long as there’s legitimate, real conversations about the possibility of that relationship … we could move forward.”Chiefs president Mark Donovan asked Kansas lawmakers to amend the deadline to continue negotiations with Kansas on building a stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and related business developments.In the correspondence, Donovan said complexity, importance and scale of the project made it clear “more time is needed to bring the effort to full fruition.”

Kan. lawmakers extend deadline for Royals, Chiefs to accept stadium incentives

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Monarchs picked up right where they left off Monday night, finishing off a 10-4 win over the Wichita Wildcats in a game suspended from June 23 due to lightning at Hobart-Detter Field.

The win moves the Monarchs to 20-5 on the season as they enter the final 10 days of the Jayhawk Collegiate League regular season.

Wichita struck first in the top of the first with a double from Landon Haines that plated Josh Donna, but Hutchinson wasted no time responding. In the bottom half, Jackson Legg’s RBI single scored two runs, and Keegan Demmer added a sacrifice fly to give the Monarchs a 3-1 lead. Dylan Bell’s groundout brought in another run to make it 4-1 after the opening frame.

The Monarchs continued to build momentum in the second. Jeter Worthley grounded out to drive in a run, and Joey Senstock followed with a solo home run to left, extending the lead to 6-1.

Wichita chipped away with a run in the third on a fielder’s choice by Jackson Ellison and added two more in the seventh, including a run scored on a wild pitch. But Hutchinson responded again in the fifth with a run-scoring double by Jacob Gutierrez, and in the eighth with a sacrifice fly by Jarrett Herrmann and a fielder’s choice that brought home two more runs, capping the scoring at 10-4.

Bryant Siemens closed the door for the Monarchs on the mound, recording a key strikeout in the seventh to limit the Wildcats' threat.

Hutchinson now sets its sights on closing strong as the race for NBC World Series seeding heats up.

Hutchinson will host the Haysville Aviators Tuesday night at Hobart-Detter Fueld with the first pitch at 7pm. Catch all the action on hutchpost.com or monarchslive.tv

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751972189381.png" alt="Final-Hutch wins suspended game over the Wichita Wildcats at Hobart-Detter Field on Monday night." />
 <figcaption>Final-Hutch wins suspended game over the Wichita Wildcats at Hobart-Detter Field on Monday night.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson Monarchs picked up right where they left off Monday night, finishing off a 10-4 win over the Wichita Wildcats in a game suspended from June 23 due to lightning at Hobart-Detter Field.The win moves the Monarchs to 20-5 on the season as they enter the final 10 days of the Jayhawk Collegiate League regular season.Wichita struck first in the top of the first with a double from Landon Haines that plated Josh Donna, but Hutchinson wasted no time responding. In the bottom half, Jackson Legg’s RBI single scored two runs, and Keegan Demmer added a sacrifice fly to give the Monarchs a 3-1 lead. Dylan Bell’s groundout brought in another run to make it 4-1 after the opening frame.The Monarchs continued to build momentum in the second. Jeter Worthley grounded out to drive in a run, and Joey Senstock followed with a solo home run to left, extending the lead to 6-1.Wichita chipped away with a run in the third on a fielder’s choice by Jackson Ellison and added two more in the seventh, including a run scored on a wild pitch. But Hutchinson responded again in the fifth with a run-scoring double by Jacob Gutierrez, and in the eighth with a sacrifice fly by Jarrett Herrmann and a fielder’s choice that brought home two more runs, capping the scoring at 10-4.Bryant Siemens closed the door for the Monarchs on the mound, recording a key strikeout in the seventh to limit the Wildcats' threat.Hutchinson now sets its sights on closing strong as the race for NBC World Series seeding heats up.Hutchinson will host the Haysville Aviators Tuesday night at Hobart-Detter Fueld with the first pitch at 7pm. Catch all the action on hutchpost.com or monarchslive.tv

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs top Wildcats in completion of suspended same, improve to 20-5

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.

Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.

Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.

Witt finished off a seven-game trip Sunday by extending his club-record hitting streak on the road to 25 games.

<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942391158166151263">Perez hit his 11th</a>&nbsp;homer, a solo shot to left in the fifth for a five-run advantage. He hit his 24th double off the top of the wall in left to drive in a run for a 3-2 lead in the third.

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-out pitch from Andrew Heaney in the first for his 15th homer and a 1-0 lead. Nick Loftin hit his second, a one-out solo shot off Génesis Cabrera in the eighth. Heaney (4-8) threw 76 pitches and allowed four runs in three innings.

Pham's homer was his third. It snapped Pittsburgh's 30-inning scoreless streak and gave the Pirates a 2-1 lead.

Steven Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth and Jonathan Bowlan allowed Alexander Canario's RBI single in the ninth to finish for Kansas City.

Cameron didn't surrender a hit after Bryan Reynolds' leadoff single in the third.

The Royals hit more home runs in their first home game of July than they did in the month of June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751969887005.jpeg" alt="ansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates on second after hitting a one-run double during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>ansas City Royals' Salvador Perez celebrates on second after hitting a one-run double during the third inning of a baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Monday, July 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez hit two of Kansas City's four home runs to back a strong start by rookie Noah Cameron, and the Royals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 9-3 on Monday night.Cameron (3-4) struck out seven in a season-high seven innings. The left-hander allowed three hits, a walk, and two runs — on Tommy Pham's two-run shot in the third.Witt went 2 for 3 and scored twice to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942388380320387120">Witt hit his 13th homer</a>, a two-run shot the opposite way to right-center field off reliever Chase Shugart to give the Royals a 6-2 lead in the fourth. He added a sacrifice fly in the sixth.Witt finished off a seven-game trip Sunday by extending his club-record hitting streak on the road to 25 games.<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1942391158166151263">Perez hit his 11th</a>&nbsp;homer, a solo shot to left in the fifth for a five-run advantage. He hit his 24th double off the top of the wall in left to drive in a run for a 3-2 lead in the third.Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-out pitch from Andrew Heaney in the first for his 15th homer and a 1-0 lead. Nick Loftin hit his second, a one-out solo shot off Génesis Cabrera in the eighth. Heaney (4-8) threw 76 pitches and allowed four runs in three innings.Pham's homer was his third. It snapped Pittsburgh's 30-inning scoreless streak and gave the Pirates a 2-1 lead.Steven Cruz pitched a scoreless eighth and Jonathan Bowlan allowed Alexander Canario's RBI single in the ninth to finish for Kansas City.<h2>Key moment</h2>Cameron didn't surrender a hit after Bryan Reynolds' leadoff single in the third.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals hit more home runs in their first home game of July than they did in the month of June.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Witt Jr. and Perez homer as Royals beat the Pirates

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751912421409.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure><div>IRVING, Texas &mdash; Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has been named the Big 12 Conference&rsquo;s Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, headlining the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Football Team announced Monday.
The redshirt sophomore is one of five Sun Devils recognized on the preseason squad, the most of any school. Arizona State is coming off a Big 12 title in its first year as a member of the league.
Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, a senior, was named the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, while Utah junior quarterback Devon Dampier was selected as Newcomer of the Year.
Texas Tech and Iowa State each had three players selected to the all-conference team.
<h3 data-start="839" data-end="873">2025 Big 12 Preseason Awards</h3>
Offensive Player of the Year &ndash; Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State, R-So. Defensive Player of the Year &ndash; Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech, Sr. Newcomer of the Year &ndash; Devon Dampier, QB, Utah, Jr.
<hr data-start="1080" data-end="1083" />
<h3 data-start="1085" data-end="1116">Preseason All-Big 12 Team</h3>
Offense QB &ndash; Sam Leavitt, Arizona State, R-So. RB &ndash; Bryson Washington, Baylor, R-So. RB &ndash; Jahiem White, West Virginia, Jr. FB/H-Back &ndash; Will Swanson, Kansas State, Sr. WR &ndash; Eric McAlister, TCU, Sr. WR &ndash; Chase Roberts, BYU, R-Sr. WR &ndash; Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State, R-Jr. TE &ndash; Joe Royer, Cincinnati, R-Sr. OL &ndash; Ben Coleman, Arizona State, Gr. OL &ndash; Spencer Fano, Utah, Jr. OL &ndash; Bryce Foster, Kansas, R-Jr. OL &ndash; Caleb Lomu, Utah, R-So. OL &ndash; Jordan Seaton, Colorado, So. PK &ndash; Will Ferrin, BYU, R-Sr. PR/KR &ndash; Josh Cameron, Baylor, R-Sr.
Defense DL &ndash; David Bailey, Texas Tech, Sr. DL &ndash; Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati, R-Sr. DL &ndash; C.J. Fite, Arizona State, Jr. DL &ndash; Lee Hunter, Texas Tech, Sr. DL &ndash; Domonique Orange, Iowa State, Sr. LB &ndash; Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech, Sr. LB &ndash; Austin Romaine, Kansas State, Jr. LB &ndash; Keaton Thomas, Baylor, R-Jr. DB &ndash; Xavion Alford, Arizona State, R-Sr. DB &ndash; Bud Clark, TCU, Sr. DB &ndash; Jeremiah Cooper, Iowa State, Sr. DB &ndash; DJ McKinney, Colorado, Jr. DB &ndash; Jontez Williams, Iowa State, R-Jr. P &ndash; Palmer Williams, Baylor, Jr.</div>