KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp; Mookie Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers arrived late in Kansas City after their weather-delayed game the previous night in Colorado, so the All-Star slugger figured he would get his team off to a quick start Friday night.

He didn't stop after his leadoff homer, either.

Betts went deep twice off big league debutant Alec Marsh, finished 4 for 4 with two walks to match a career best by reaching base six times, and drove in four runs to help the Dodgers romp to a 9-3 win over the last-place Royals.

“You know, we got in late and I said, ‘That’s no excuse,'” said the diminutive Betts, who nonetheless will take his swings in the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game in less than two weeks. “Gave us a little energy and we rode it all night.”

Jason Heyward added three hits and two RBI for the Dodgers, whose hot bats that produced a season-high 18 hits the previous night in Colorado kept sizzling at Kauffman Stadium, where the temperature was 97 degrees at first pitch.

Los Angeles had 11 hits to go with nine walks, and seven different players crossed the plate, giving Bobby Miller (4-1) more than enough support. The right-hander pitched into the sixth inning and allowed three runs on five hits and a walk.

“The guys definitely had my back today,” Miller said.

Bobby Witt Jr., Nick Pratto and Freddy Fermin drove in runs for Kansas City, which has lost eight of its last nine against the Dodgers.

Marsh (0-1), the fourth Royals player to make his major league debut this season, threw 95 pitches before he was lifted with two aboard and nobody out in the fifth. He allowed five runs on four walks and six hits with five strikeouts.

“He’s certainly not the first guy to give up homers to Mookie,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He didn’t back down.”

The 25-year-old Marsh actually pitched fairly well when he wasn't facing Betts, the Dodgers' All-Star leadoff hitter, who drove the right-hander's fifth career pitch 422 feet over the left-field bullpen. Betts followed his ninth leadoff homer of the season with a shot off the left-field foul pole to give the Dodgers a 2-0 lead in the third.

Betts added an RBI single in the fourth, a walk in the sixth, a run-scoring double in the eighth and another walk in the ninth. That allowed the seven-time All-Star to reach base six times, just as he did for Boston against the Yankees on Aug. 2, 2018.

Witt's RBI groundout got the Royals within 2-1 in the third before Los Angeles capitalized on a pair of walks to score twice in the fourth, when bolts of lightning began tracing across the outfield sky. The umpires huddled but allowed play to continue.

The Dodgers answered Pratto's run-scoring double in the fourth with a run in the fifth, when Will Smith was awarded a triple on a hit down the right-field line that was initially ruled foul. J.D. Martinez followed two batters later with a sacrifice fly.

Heyward made it 6-3 with an RBI single in the seventh before Los Angeles scored three more times in the eighth.

The Royals traded LHP Aroldis Chapman to the Rangers for LHP Cole Ragans and OF Roni Cabrera about two hours before the first pitch. The 35-year-old Chapman has resurrected his career this season, frequently hitting 102 mph out of the bullpen, but the Royals needed younger players as they build toward the future. The 25-year-old Ragans will go to Triple-A Omaha to stretch out as a starter and could be in the majors soon, and the 17-year-old Cabrera will play in the Dominican Summer League.

“It was just a matter of the timing of when we thought we'd get the right return,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said about trading Chapman. “He's just thrown so well that we had an opportunity to make a move sooner than later.”

Dodgers: RHP Daniel Hudson worked around a single in the eighth in his first appearance since tearing the ACL in his left knee just more than a year ago. He was activated about 30 minutes before the game, when RHP Nick Robertson was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City and RHP Ricky Vanasco was designated for assignment.

Royals: LHP Amir Garrett (left elbow) came off the injured list, where he had been since June 2, and pitched a scoreless inning in relief. RHP James McArthur also was optioned to Omaha so Marsh could join the club.

Dodgers LHP Clayton Kershaw plans to play catch Saturday rather than throw a bullpen. The three-time Cy Young Award winner is on track to start Monday after feeling tenderness in his shoulder Tuesday. He was given a shot to relieve inflammation Wednesday. “That’s the plan as it stands right now,” manager Dave Roberts said.

Dodgers LHP Julio Urías (hamstring) is expected to start Saturday for the first time since May 17. He was 5-4 with a 4.39 ERA in 10 starts before landing on the injured list. The Royals will counter with LHP Daniel Lynch (1-3, 3.96).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683193842018.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp; Mookie Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers arrived late in Kansas City after their weather-delayed game the previous night in Colorado, so the All-Star slugger figured he would get his team off to a quick start Friday night.He didn't stop after his leadoff homer, either.Betts went deep twice off big league debutant Alec Marsh, finished 4 for 4 with two walks to match a career best by reaching base six times, and drove in four runs to help the Dodgers romp to a 9-3 win over the last-place Royals.“You know, we got in late and I said, ‘That’s no excuse,'” said the diminutive Betts, who nonetheless will take his swings in the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game in less than two weeks. “Gave us a little energy and we rode it all night.”Jason Heyward added three hits and two RBI for the Dodgers, whose hot bats that produced a season-high 18 hits the previous night in Colorado kept sizzling at Kauffman Stadium, where the temperature was 97 degrees at first pitch.Los Angeles had 11 hits to go with nine walks, and seven different players crossed the plate, giving Bobby Miller (4-1) more than enough support. The right-hander pitched into the sixth inning and allowed three runs on five hits and a walk.“The guys definitely had my back today,” Miller said.Bobby Witt Jr., Nick Pratto and Freddy Fermin drove in runs for Kansas City, which has lost eight of its last nine against the Dodgers.Marsh (0-1), the fourth Royals player to make his major league debut this season, threw 95 pitches before he was lifted with two aboard and nobody out in the fifth. He allowed five runs on four walks and six hits with five strikeouts.“He’s certainly not the first guy to give up homers to Mookie,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He didn’t back down.”The 25-year-old Marsh actually pitched fairly well when he wasn't facing Betts, the Dodgers' All-Star leadoff hitter, who drove the right-hander's fifth career pitch 422 feet over the left-field bullpen. Betts followed his ninth leadoff homer of the season with a shot off the left-field foul pole to give the Dodgers a 2-0 lead in the third.Betts added an RBI single in the fourth, a walk in the sixth, a run-scoring double in the eighth and another walk in the ninth. That allowed the seven-time All-Star to reach base six times, just as he did for Boston against the Yankees on Aug. 2, 2018.Witt's RBI groundout got the Royals within 2-1 in the third before Los Angeles capitalized on a pair of walks to score twice in the fourth, when bolts of lightning began tracing across the outfield sky. The umpires huddled but allowed play to continue.The Dodgers answered Pratto's run-scoring double in the fourth with a run in the fifth, when Will Smith was awarded a triple on a hit down the right-field line that was initially ruled foul. J.D. Martinez followed two batters later with a sacrifice fly.Heyward made it 6-3 with an RBI single in the seventh before Los Angeles scored three more times in the eighth.CHAPMAN TRADEDThe Royals traded LHP Aroldis Chapman to the Rangers for LHP Cole Ragans and OF Roni Cabrera about two hours before the first pitch. The 35-year-old Chapman has resurrected his career this season, frequently hitting 102 mph out of the bullpen, but the Royals needed younger players as they build toward the future. The 25-year-old Ragans will go to Triple-A Omaha to stretch out as a starter and could be in the majors soon, and the 17-year-old Cabrera will play in the Dominican Summer League.“It was just a matter of the timing of when we thought we'd get the right return,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said about trading Chapman. “He's just thrown so well that we had an opportunity to make a move sooner than later.”ROSTER MOVESDodgers: RHP Daniel Hudson worked around a single in the eighth in his first appearance since tearing the ACL in his left knee just more than a year ago. He was activated about 30 minutes before the game, when RHP Nick Robertson was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City and RHP Ricky Vanasco was designated for assignment.Royals: LHP Amir Garrett (left elbow) came off the injured list, where he had been since June 2, and pitched a scoreless inning in relief. RHP James McArthur also was optioned to Omaha so Marsh could join the club.TRAINER'S ROOMDodgers LHP Clayton Kershaw plans to play catch Saturday rather than throw a bullpen. The three-time Cy Young Award winner is on track to start Monday after feeling tenderness in his shoulder Tuesday. He was given a shot to relieve inflammation Wednesday. “That’s the plan as it stands right now,” manager Dave Roberts said.UP NEXTDodgers LHP Julio Urías (hamstring) is expected to start Saturday for the first time since May 17. He was 5-4 with a 4.39 ERA in 10 starts before landing on the injured list. The Royals will counter with LHP Daniel Lynch (1-3, 3.96).

⚾ Mookie Betts leads Dodgers to win over Royals

NEW YORK (AP) — Todd Tichenor will be the home plate umpire and crew chief for the All-Star Game at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park on July 11.

Tichenor, 46, will be working the All-Star Game for the second time after umpiring in left field for the 2014 game in Minneapolis. Tichenor umpired his first big league game in 2007 and joined the full-time staff in 2012. He worked the 2020 World Series and was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-mets-los-angeles-angels-chicago-cubs-dodgers-yankees-3bb5b9e1cafd9d2d5a6746c8d6edd57d" target="_blank">promoted to crew chief this year</a>.

His crew includes five umpires working the All-Star Game for the first time: Quinn Wolcott (first), Tripp Gibson (second), Stu Scheurwater (third), Ryan Blakney (left) and Ramon De Jesus (right). Wolcott and Blackney are Washington state natives and Gibson is a Washington state resident.

Jim Wolf will be the replay umpire in New York. He worked right field in the 2010 All-Star Game.

Tichenor was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, but moved to Holcomb at the age of four. He then graduated from Garden City High School in 1995.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688159182332.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Todd Tichenor will be the home plate umpire and crew chief for the All-Star Game at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park on July 11.Tichenor, 46, will be working the All-Star Game for the second time after umpiring in left field for the 2014 game in Minneapolis. Tichenor umpired his first big league game in 2007 and joined the full-time staff in 2012. He worked the 2020 World Series and was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-mets-los-angeles-angels-chicago-cubs-dodgers-yankees-3bb5b9e1cafd9d2d5a6746c8d6edd57d" target="_blank">promoted to crew chief this year</a>.His crew includes five umpires working the All-Star Game for the first time: Quinn Wolcott (first), Tripp Gibson (second), Stu Scheurwater (third), Ryan Blakney (left) and Ramon De Jesus (right). Wolcott and Blackney are Washington state natives and Gibson is a Washington state resident.Jim Wolf will be the replay umpire in New York. He worked right field in the 2010 All-Star Game.Tichenor was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, but moved to Holcomb at the age of four. He then graduated from Garden City High School in 1995.

⚾ Western Kansas native to umpire MLB All-Star Game

The starters have been announced for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game presented by Mastercard, set for July 11 in Seattle.

Nine different clubs are represented among this year’s elected starters, led by the Rangers with four. The Braves and Dodgers are tied for the NL lead with three starters apiece, and the Rays and Angels also have multiple starters. Eight players won the fan vote for the first time in their careers, including a pair of rookies.

The complete All-Star rosters, including pitchers and reserve position players for both teams, will be announced at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN on Sunday, July 2. Pitchers and reserves -- totaling 23 players for each side -- will be determined via “Player Ballot” choices and selections made by the Commissioner’s Office.

CATCHER AL: Jonah Heim, Texas (1st selection) NL: Sean Murphy, Atlanta (1st selection)

FIRST BASE AL: Yandy Diaz, Tampa Bay (1st selection) NL: Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers (4th selection)

SECOND BASE AL: Marcus Semien, Texas (2nd selection) NL: Luis Arraez, Miami (1st selection)

THIRD BASE AL: Josh Jung, Texas (1st selection) NL: Nolan Arenado, St. Louis (5th selection)

SHORTSTOP AL: Corey Seager, Texas&nbsp;(1st selection) NL: Orlando Arcia, Atlanta&nbsp;(1st selection)

DESIGNATED HITTER AL: Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (3rd selection) NL: J.D. Martinez, Los Angeles Dodgers (2nd selection)

AL OUTFIELD Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels (10th selection) Randy Arozarena, Tampa Bay&nbsp;(1st selection) Aaron Judge, New York Yankees (5th selection)

NL OUTFIELD Ronald Acuna Jr., Atlanta (3rd selection) Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers (4th selection) Corbin Carroll, Arizona&nbsp;(1st selection)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688139324710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The starters have been announced for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game presented by Mastercard, set for July 11 in Seattle.Nine different clubs are represented among this year’s elected starters, led by the Rangers with four. The Braves and Dodgers are tied for the NL lead with three starters apiece, and the Rays and Angels also have multiple starters. Eight players won the fan vote for the first time in their careers, including a pair of rookies.The complete All-Star rosters, including pitchers and reserve position players for both teams, will be announced at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN on Sunday, July 2. Pitchers and reserves -- totaling 23 players for each side -- will be determined via “Player Ballot” choices and selections made by the Commissioner’s Office.CATCHER AL: Jonah Heim, Texas (1st selection) NL: Sean Murphy, Atlanta (1st selection)FIRST BASE AL: Yandy Diaz, Tampa Bay (1st selection) NL: Freddie Freeman, Los Angeles Dodgers (4th selection)SECOND BASE AL: Marcus Semien, Texas (2nd selection) NL: Luis Arraez, Miami (1st selection)THIRD BASE AL: Josh Jung, Texas (1st selection) NL: Nolan Arenado, St. Louis (5th selection)SHORTSTOP AL: Corey Seager, Texas&nbsp;(1st selection) NL: Orlando Arcia, Atlanta&nbsp;(1st selection)DESIGNATED HITTER AL: Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels (3rd selection) NL: J.D. Martinez, Los Angeles Dodgers (2nd selection)AL OUTFIELD Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels (10th selection) Randy Arozarena, Tampa Bay&nbsp;(1st selection) Aaron Judge, New York Yankees (5th selection)NL OUTFIELD Ronald Acuna Jr., Atlanta (3rd selection) Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers (4th selection) Corbin Carroll, Arizona&nbsp;(1st selection)

⚾ MLB All-Star Game starters announced

Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Former Kansas state assistant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/stew-burke/1648">Stew Burke</a>, a championship-winning coach who has led Tulane the last four seasons, has been named head coach for the K-State women's golf program, athletics director Gene Taylor announced today.

Burke has agreed to a five-year contract with his hiring contingent upon a successful background check. "We are excited to welcome Stew back to Manhattan to lead our women's golf team," Taylor said. "This job attracted strong interest from all over the country, which speaks to the culture that we have here at K-State. Stew has had unbelievable success both as an assistant coach and as a head coach, he is one of the top recruiters in the country and has a tremendous track record of developing players. "His familiarity with our program, the University and community, in addition to the relationships he has already established in the local golf community, will lead to a smooth transition as he takes over our program," Taylor said. "We look forward to having Stew, Lucy and Effie as a part of the K-State family." Burke, who was the 2022 American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year at Tulane, originally joined K-State in the spring of 2014 and worked in Manhattan through the fall of 2016. He then served parts of three seasons as the associate head coach at USC before taking over the Tulane program in the fall of 2019. "I am honored to be the next head women's golf coach at K-State," Burke said. "I'd like to thank Gene Taylor for this incredible opportunity and Kristi Knight for her support throughout my career. She allowed me to see how special K-State is and played a pivotal role in my development as a collegiate coach. I'd also like to thank Troy Dannen for giving me my first head coaching opportunity. "This has been a dream of mine, and there is nowhere I'd rather be. This program has the potential to be a perennial postseason contender, and I believe we can get back to regionals quickly. I am excited to work with the returning players and to start recruiting with the Powercat on my chest." During his tenure at Tulane, Burke improved the Green Waves' national Golfstat ranking more than 50 spots as he took over a program that ranked No. 113 the year prior to his arrival to a No. 62 mark this past season. Burke was named the AAC Coach of the Year in 2022 after leading the Green Wave to the school's first conference championship in eight years to earn a berth into the NCAA Stillwater Regional. Three of his players that season – Carla Bernat, Sandra Vazquez and Cleo Liu – were named All-AAC. The team's success that season was born out of disaster and resolve as the team was displaced to Birmingham, Alabama, for five weeks in the fall of 2021 due to Hurricane Ida. This past season, Burke tutored Bernat to AAC Women's Golfer of the Year, First Team All-AAC and Second Team All-America honors. She earned an individual bid into the 2023 NCAA Athens Regional in addition to competing for Team International in the 27th&nbsp;annual Arnold Palmer Cup earlier this month. Bernat finished 21st&nbsp;in the Golfstat rankings, the fourth-highest ranked player from a non-Power 5 school. While at K-State as an assistant, Burke helped raise the Wildcats' Golfstat ranking from No. 105 into the top 40 as they tallied three team victories and four individual crowns. K-State also posted its top two stroke average marks in school history with Burke on staff with the 2014-15 squad setting the record at 297.30 followed closely by the 2015-16 team at 297.31. Burke helped guide Madison Talley to consecutive individual postseason appearances, including the 2016 NCAA Baton Rouge Regional when she tied for 12th. Burke was also instrumental in helping build a squad that made the NCAA Athens Regional in 2017 after his departure to USC. Talley set K-State's single-season stroke average record at 73.78 in 2014-15 which was eventually broken by Connie Jaffrey, who spent the first part of her career learning under Burke. Jaffrey set the school record with a 72.85 stroke average during her senior campaign of 2017-18, and she also holds the school's career stroke average record at 74.13. Burke left K-State in the spring of 2017 to serve as the assistant coach and later the associate head coach at USC. During his tenure in Los Angeles, Burke helped guide the Trojans to consecutive appearances in the NCAA Championship Semifinals (2017 and 2018) followed by a trip to the Quarterfinals (2019). With Burke on staff, the Trojans captured 14 team victories and posted an impressive mark of 18 consecutive finishes in the top three from the spring of 2018 to the spring of 2019. During the 2018-19 season, the Trojans were ranked as the nation's top team in both the Golfstat and Golfweek rankings on their way to a 2019 Pac-12 Championship and an NCAA West Regional team title. In total, Burke coached players that combined for eight First Team All-Pac-12 and 10 All-America accolades. Prior to his time at K-State, Burke worked three years as the Director of Recruitment at United Sports USA, a company that assists NCAA Division I coaches of all sports with recruiting the top student-athletes from the United Kingdom and Europe. A partner who helped set up United Sports USA, Burke previously worked at a similar organization called First Point USA Sport Scholarship Consultants. Burke played collegiately at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, where he graduated with a degree in sports management in 2007. He obtained a master's degree in educational, school and counseling psychology with an emphasis in positive coaching from the University of Missouri in 2019, and he is working on another master's degree in sports studies. Burke and his wife, Lucy, have one daughter, Effie.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688137860902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Former Kansas state assistant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/stew-burke/1648">Stew Burke</a>, a championship-winning coach who has led Tulane the last four seasons, has been named head coach for the K-State women's golf program, athletics director Gene Taylor announced today. Burke has agreed to a five-year contract with his hiring contingent upon a successful background check. "We are excited to welcome Stew back to Manhattan to lead our women's golf team," Taylor said. "This job attracted strong interest from all over the country, which speaks to the culture that we have here at K-State. Stew has had unbelievable success both as an assistant coach and as a head coach, he is one of the top recruiters in the country and has a tremendous track record of developing players. "His familiarity with our program, the University and community, in addition to the relationships he has already established in the local golf community, will lead to a smooth transition as he takes over our program," Taylor said. "We look forward to having Stew, Lucy and Effie as a part of the K-State family." Burke, who was the 2022 American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year at Tulane, originally joined K-State in the spring of 2014 and worked in Manhattan through the fall of 2016. He then served parts of three seasons as the associate head coach at USC before taking over the Tulane program in the fall of 2019. "I am honored to be the next head women's golf coach at K-State," Burke said. "I'd like to thank Gene Taylor for this incredible opportunity and Kristi Knight for her support throughout my career. She allowed me to see how special K-State is and played a pivotal role in my development as a collegiate coach. I'd also like to thank Troy Dannen for giving me my first head coaching opportunity. "This has been a dream of mine, and there is nowhere I'd rather be. This program has the potential to be a perennial postseason contender, and I believe we can get back to regionals quickly. I am excited to work with the returning players and to start recruiting with the Powercat on my chest." During his tenure at Tulane, Burke improved the Green Waves' national Golfstat ranking more than 50 spots as he took over a program that ranked No. 113 the year prior to his arrival to a No. 62 mark this past season. Burke was named the AAC Coach of the Year in 2022 after leading the Green Wave to the school's first conference championship in eight years to earn a berth into the NCAA Stillwater Regional. Three of his players that season – Carla Bernat, Sandra Vazquez and Cleo Liu – were named All-AAC. The team's success that season was born out of disaster and resolve as the team was displaced to Birmingham, Alabama, for five weeks in the fall of 2021 due to Hurricane Ida. This past season, Burke tutored Bernat to AAC Women's Golfer of the Year, First Team All-AAC and Second Team All-America honors. She earned an individual bid into the 2023 NCAA Athens Regional in addition to competing for Team International in the 27th&nbsp;annual Arnold Palmer Cup earlier this month. Bernat finished 21st&nbsp;in the Golfstat rankings, the fourth-highest ranked player from a non-Power 5 school. While at K-State as an assistant, Burke helped raise the Wildcats' Golfstat ranking from No. 105 into the top 40 as they tallied three team victories and four individual crowns. K-State also posted its top two stroke average marks in school history with Burke on staff with the 2014-15 squad setting the record at 297.30 followed closely by the 2015-16 team at 297.31. Burke helped guide Madison Talley to consecutive individual postseason appearances, including the 2016 NCAA Baton Rouge Regional when she tied for 12th. Burke was also instrumental in helping build a squad that made the NCAA Athens Regional in 2017 after his departure to USC. Talley set K-State's single-season stroke average record at 73.78 in 2014-15 which was eventually broken by Connie Jaffrey, who spent the first part of her career learning under Burke. Jaffrey set the school record with a 72.85 stroke average during her senior campaign of 2017-18, and she also holds the school's career stroke average record at 74.13. Burke left K-State in the spring of 2017 to serve as the assistant coach and later the associate head coach at USC. During his tenure in Los Angeles, Burke helped guide the Trojans to consecutive appearances in the NCAA Championship Semifinals (2017 and 2018) followed by a trip to the Quarterfinals (2019). With Burke on staff, the Trojans captured 14 team victories and posted an impressive mark of 18 consecutive finishes in the top three from the spring of 2018 to the spring of 2019. During the 2018-19 season, the Trojans were ranked as the nation's top team in both the Golfstat and Golfweek rankings on their way to a 2019 Pac-12 Championship and an NCAA West Regional team title. In total, Burke coached players that combined for eight First Team All-Pac-12 and 10 All-America accolades. Prior to his time at K-State, Burke worked three years as the Director of Recruitment at United Sports USA, a company that assists NCAA Division I coaches of all sports with recruiting the top student-athletes from the United Kingdom and Europe. A partner who helped set up United Sports USA, Burke previously worked at a similar organization called First Point USA Sport Scholarship Consultants. Burke played collegiately at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, where he graduated with a degree in sports management in 2007. He obtained a master's degree in educational, school and counseling psychology with an emphasis in positive coaching from the University of Missouri in 2019, and he is working on another master's degree in sports studies. Burke and his wife, Lucy, have one daughter, Effie.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ Burke set to lead K-State women's program

Courtesy of the American Athletic Conference&nbsp;

IRVING, Texas –&nbsp;Sites and dates for American Athletic Conference championships for the 2023-24 year have been announced. The Fall 2023 championship season will begin with the Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Championships, to be held Oct. 28 at Overton’s Lake Kristi in Greenville, N.C. The Women’s Soccer Championship field expands from six teams to eight and the entire tournament will be played at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., Oct. 31-Nov. 5. The Men’s Soccer Championship will feature six teams and the first round will be played at higher seeds on Nov. 5 before moving to the No. 1 seed for the semifinals and final Nov. 9 and 12. The 2023 American Athletic Conference Football Championship will be held at the No. 1 seed on Dec. 2. The Winter championship season will begin with the Women’s Swimming and Diving Championship Feb. 22-25 at the Robson &amp; Lindley Aquatics Center and Barr McMillion Natatorium in Dallas. That same weekend, the Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field Championships will be held at the Birmingham Crossplex in Birmingham, Ala., Feb. 23-24. Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, will host the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships for the fourth consecutive season. With both tournaments being expanded to 14 teams, the Women’s Championship will run March 9-13, while the Men’s Championship will be held March 13-17. The Women’s Golf Championship will open the Spring championship season April 15-17, returning to Southern Hills in Brooksville, Fla. The Men’s Golf Championship will take place once again at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla., April 19-21. For the first time, the Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships will be split up, with the women’s tournament taking place at the Stylslinger/Altec Tennis Complex in Dallas April 17-21, while the men’s championship will be held at the Michael D. Case Tennis Center in Tulsa, Okla., April 18-21. The Vanderbilt Lacrosse Center in Nashville, Tenn., will host the Women’s Lacrosse Championship May 2-4. The Softball Championship expands to 10 teams and will be held May 8-11 at Wilkins Stadium in Wichita, Kan. The Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships will take place at the Park West Athletics Complex in San Antonio, Texas May 10-12. For the fourth year in a row, the Women’s Rowing Championship will take place on Melton Lake in Oak Ridge, Tenn., on May 12. The Baseball Championship returns to BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Fla., May 21-26 to close out the conference championship schedule. 2023-24 American Athletic Conference Championship Schedule Oct. 28 | Men’s and Women’s Cross Country | Overton’s Lake Kristi | Greenville, N.C. Oct. 31-Nov. 5 | Women’s Soccer | Premier Sports Campus | Lakewood Ranch, Fla. Nov. 5-12 | Men’s Soccer | Campus Sites Dec. 2 | Football | Campus Site Feb. 22-25 | Women’s Swimming and Diving | Robson &amp; Lindley Aquatics Center and Barr McMillion Natatorium | Dallas, Texas Feb. 23-24 | Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field | Birmingham Crossplex | Birmingham, Ala. March 9-13 | Women’s Basketball | Dickies Arena | Fort Worth, Texas March 13-17 | Men’s Basketball | Dickies Arena | Fort Worth, Texas April 15-17 | Women’s Golf | Southern Hills | Brooksville, Fla. April 17-21 | Women’s Tennis | Styslinger/Altec Tennis Complex | Dallas, Texas April 18-21 | Men’s Tennis | Michael D. Case Tennis Center | Tulsa, Okla. April 19-21 | Men’s Golf | Pelican Golf Club | Belleair, Fla. May 2-4 | Women’s Lacrosse | Vanderbilt Lacrosse Complex | Nashville, Tenn. May 8-11 | Softball | Wilkins Stadium | Wichita, Kan. May 10-12 | Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field | Park West Athletics Complex | San Antonio, Texas May 12 | Women’s Rowing | Melton Lake | Oak Ridge, Tenn. May 21-26 | Baseball | BayCare Ballpark | Clearwater, Fla.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>Courtesy of the American Athletic Conference&nbsp;IRVING, Texas –&nbsp;Sites and dates for American Athletic Conference championships for the 2023-24 year have been announced. The Fall 2023 championship season will begin with the Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Championships, to be held Oct. 28 at Overton’s Lake Kristi in Greenville, N.C. The Women’s Soccer Championship field expands from six teams to eight and the entire tournament will be played at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., Oct. 31-Nov. 5. The Men’s Soccer Championship will feature six teams and the first round will be played at higher seeds on Nov. 5 before moving to the No. 1 seed for the semifinals and final Nov. 9 and 12. The 2023 American Athletic Conference Football Championship will be held at the No. 1 seed on Dec. 2. The Winter championship season will begin with the Women’s Swimming and Diving Championship Feb. 22-25 at the Robson &amp; Lindley Aquatics Center and Barr McMillion Natatorium in Dallas. That same weekend, the Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field Championships will be held at the Birmingham Crossplex in Birmingham, Ala., Feb. 23-24. Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, will host the Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships for the fourth consecutive season. With both tournaments being expanded to 14 teams, the Women’s Championship will run March 9-13, while the Men’s Championship will be held March 13-17. The Women’s Golf Championship will open the Spring championship season April 15-17, returning to Southern Hills in Brooksville, Fla. The Men’s Golf Championship will take place once again at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla., April 19-21. For the first time, the Men’s and Women’s Tennis Championships will be split up, with the women’s tournament taking place at the Stylslinger/Altec Tennis Complex in Dallas April 17-21, while the men’s championship will be held at the Michael D. Case Tennis Center in Tulsa, Okla., April 18-21. The Vanderbilt Lacrosse Center in Nashville, Tenn., will host the Women’s Lacrosse Championship May 2-4. The Softball Championship expands to 10 teams and will be held May 8-11 at Wilkins Stadium in Wichita, Kan. The Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships will take place at the Park West Athletics Complex in San Antonio, Texas May 10-12. For the fourth year in a row, the Women’s Rowing Championship will take place on Melton Lake in Oak Ridge, Tenn., on May 12. The Baseball Championship returns to BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Fla., May 21-26 to close out the conference championship schedule. 2023-24 American Athletic Conference Championship Schedule Oct. 28 | Men’s and Women’s Cross Country | Overton’s Lake Kristi | Greenville, N.C. Oct. 31-Nov. 5 | Women’s Soccer | Premier Sports Campus | Lakewood Ranch, Fla. Nov. 5-12 | Men’s Soccer | Campus Sites Dec. 2 | Football | Campus Site Feb. 22-25 | Women’s Swimming and Diving | Robson &amp; Lindley Aquatics Center and Barr McMillion Natatorium | Dallas, Texas Feb. 23-24 | Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field | Birmingham Crossplex | Birmingham, Ala. March 9-13 | Women’s Basketball | Dickies Arena | Fort Worth, Texas March 13-17 | Men’s Basketball | Dickies Arena | Fort Worth, Texas April 15-17 | Women’s Golf | Southern Hills | Brooksville, Fla. April 17-21 | Women’s Tennis | Styslinger/Altec Tennis Complex | Dallas, Texas April 18-21 | Men’s Tennis | Michael D. Case Tennis Center | Tulsa, Okla. April 19-21 | Men’s Golf | Pelican Golf Club | Belleair, Fla. May 2-4 | Women’s Lacrosse | Vanderbilt Lacrosse Complex | Nashville, Tenn. May 8-11 | Softball | Wilkins Stadium | Wichita, Kan. May 10-12 | Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field | Park West Athletics Complex | San Antonio, Texas May 12 | Women’s Rowing | Melton Lake | Oak Ridge, Tenn. May 21-26 | Baseball | BayCare Ballpark | Clearwater, Fla.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 WSU to host AAC Championship in 2024

AP Sports Headlines for Friday, June 30th

NFL suspends 3 players indefinitely for violating the gambling policy, a fourth gets 6 games

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The NFL has suspended three players indefinitely for violating the league's gambling policy and a fourth was sidelined for six games. Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry of the Indianapolis Colts along with free agent Demetrius Taylor received indefinite suspensions through at least this season for betting on NFL games in 2022. They won't be able to seek reinstatement until the 2023 season ends. Tennessee Titans right tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere was suspended for the first six games of the 2023 season for betting on non-NFL sports at the team's facility. He is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason activities, including preseason games.

James Harden picks up $35.6 million option with the 76ers, AP source says

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — James Harden picked up his $35.6 million contract option for next season with the Philadelphia 76ers, with the franchise exploring trades to move the veteran scorer, a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press. Harden informed the 76ers of his choice Thursday ahead of the midnight deadline to pick up the option, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the decision was not made public. The 33-year-old Harden could have declined the option and decided to try for free agency. The Sixers had the right to offer him a $210 million, four-year deal, $8 million more overall than any other team.

Mike Trout elected to 11th All-Star Game, 4 Texas players chosen to start

NEW YORK (AP) — Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout has been elected to his 11th All-Star Game and four Texas Rangers were chosen by fans for the American League's lineup for the July 11 game at Seattle's T-Mobile Park. Trout was voted to start for the 10th time and will be joined in the AL lineup by teammate Shohei Ohtani, who last week was chosen at designated hitter as the league's top-vote getter in the first round. Nine first-time starters were picked by fans, including three Rangers: catcher Jonah Heim, shortstop Corey Seager and third baseman Josh Jung. Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien was chosen for his second start.

Deal with Dodgers co-owner unifies women's pro hockey in North America, AP sources say

Professional women's hockey in North America was unified Thursday when a co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers struck a deal with the Premier Hockey Federation. That's according to two people with direct knowledge of the agreement who spoke to The Associated Press because the deal hadn't been announced. A third person also confirmed the partial purchase of the PHF by Mark Walter's firm. One of the people says the deal will result in a new women's hockey league that is projected to launch in January. The PHF will cease operations under the deal, according to one of the people.

As NFL cracks down on players gambling, what events are pro athletes allowed to bet on?

The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling in Murphy vs. NCAA ushered in a new era of legalized sports betting in the U.S., allowing states to establish their own sports wagering laws and operations. The high court overturned the federal Professional Amateur Sports Protection Act that had barred betting on football, basketball, baseball and other sports in most states. With it came a new approach to how the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL associate with the industry. Each league prohibits its employees and players from betting on their own games. But there are variations in how they operate in this new world.

The already hectic NBA offseason now poised for free agents to make moves

It's already been a busy offseason for player movement in the NBA. Now free agency begins Friday evening. There are big names that could be on the move, including Khris Middleton and Draymond Green. There are some players like Max Strus who are in line for big paydays for the first time. Trades are still a possibility, especially since James Harden has picked up his player option. And teams now have to navigate new rules that come with the new Collective Bargaining Agreement that goes into effect on Saturday.

Jaguars LT Cam Robinson suspended 4 games for violating NFL policy on PEDs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The NFL has suspended Jacksonville Jaguars left tackle Cam Robinson for the first four games of the regular season for violating league policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Robinson and the team had been awaiting his punishment for more than two months. Knowing it was coming, the Jaguars signed veteran and oft-injured backup Josh Wells to a one-year deal in early April and then used their first-round draft pick on Oklahoma offensive tackle Anton Harrison. They hope those moves will help offset being without Robinson for nearly a quarter of the season. Robinson's suspension is without pay, meaning he will lose roughly $900,000 a game. He's the highest-paid player on Jacksonville's roster.

NHL draft wraps up with 11 picks for Chicago, dearth of trades ahead of free agency

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Chicago Blackhawks acquired their latest generational talent along with a big dose of speed in one of the NHL's largest draft hauls. They also made another big move for their future Thursday by adding veteran Corey Perry to help teach No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard how to be the leader the Blackhawks need to contend for a Stanley Cup. Chicago general manager Kyle Davidson says he couldn't be happier with how this draft worked out with 11 players taken. The Anaheim Ducks added a big Swedish center to their young, talented offense in Leo Carlsson at No. 2 overall.

All Hail the Rockies! Pea-sized hail makes Coors Field a winter wonderland ahead of Dodgers game

DENVER (AP) — Elias Diaz of the Colorado Rockies stretched and dove, head first, making quite a splash. The Rockies catcher wasn't stealing a base or avoiding a tag. Instead, Diaz was sliding on the hail-covered tarp of Coors Field hours before Colorado hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night. The Denver area was hit with heavy rain, high winds and pea-sized hail, transforming the green outfield grass into ice-covered turf and delaying the start of the series finale for an hour and 50 minutes.

Taylor Moore, Peter Kuest lead Rocket Mortgage Classic; Dylan Wu 1 back after albatross

DETROIT (AP) — Taylor Moore and Monday qualifier Peter Kuest shot 8-under 64s to share the first-round lead in the Rocket Mortgage Classic. A slew of players are chasing them in what's expected to be a shootout at Detroit Golf Club. Dylan Wu had the third albatross on the PGA Tour this season and shot 65, joining Sam Ryder, Aaron Rai, Ludvig Aberg, Sam Bennett, Justin Suh and Adam Schenk. Collin Morikawa was among those two shots back while Rickie Fowler was three off the lead at Detroit Golf Club. Some notable names were nowhere near the top of the leaderboard, including major champions Justin Thomas and Hideki Matsuyama.

Here are the latest scores from today's sports events:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683366121627.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Friday Morning, June 30th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Friday Morning, June 30th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>AP Sports Headlines for Friday, June 30thNFL suspends 3 players indefinitely for violating the gambling policy, a fourth gets 6 gamesINDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The NFL has suspended three players indefinitely for violating the league's gambling policy and a fourth was sidelined for six games. Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry of the Indianapolis Colts along with free agent Demetrius Taylor received indefinite suspensions through at least this season for betting on NFL games in 2022. They won't be able to seek reinstatement until the 2023 season ends. Tennessee Titans right tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere was suspended for the first six games of the 2023 season for betting on non-NFL sports at the team's facility. He is eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason activities, including preseason games.James Harden picks up $35.6 million option with the 76ers, AP source saysPHILADELPHIA (AP) — James Harden picked up his $35.6 million contract option for next season with the Philadelphia 76ers, with the franchise exploring trades to move the veteran scorer, a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press. Harden informed the 76ers of his choice Thursday ahead of the midnight deadline to pick up the option, according to the person who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the decision was not made public. The 33-year-old Harden could have declined the option and decided to try for free agency. The Sixers had the right to offer him a $210 million, four-year deal, $8 million more overall than any other team.Mike Trout elected to 11th All-Star Game, 4 Texas players chosen to startNEW YORK (AP) — Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout has been elected to his 11th All-Star Game and four Texas Rangers were chosen by fans for the American League's lineup for the July 11 game at Seattle's T-Mobile Park. Trout was voted to start for the 10th time and will be joined in the AL lineup by teammate Shohei Ohtani, who last week was chosen at designated hitter as the league's top-vote getter in the first round. Nine first-time starters were picked by fans, including three Rangers: catcher Jonah Heim, shortstop Corey Seager and third baseman Josh Jung. Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien was chosen for his second start.Deal with Dodgers co-owner unifies women's pro hockey in North America, AP sources sayProfessional women's hockey in North America was unified Thursday when a co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers struck a deal with the Premier Hockey Federation. That's according to two people with direct knowledge of the agreement who spoke to The Associated Press because the deal hadn't been announced. A third person also confirmed the partial purchase of the PHF by Mark Walter's firm. One of the people says the deal will result in a new women's hockey league that is projected to launch in January. The PHF will cease operations under the deal, according to one of the people.As NFL cracks down on players gambling, what events are pro athletes allowed to bet on?The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling in Murphy vs. NCAA ushered in a new era of legalized sports betting in the U.S., allowing states to establish their own sports wagering laws and operations. The high court overturned the federal Professional Amateur Sports Protection Act that had barred betting on football, basketball, baseball and other sports in most states. With it came a new approach to how the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL associate with the industry. Each league prohibits its employees and players from betting on their own games. But there are variations in how they operate in this new world.The already hectic NBA offseason now poised for free agents to make movesIt's already been a busy offseason for player movement in the NBA. Now free agency begins Friday evening. There are big names that could be on the move, including Khris Middleton and Draymond Green. There are some players like Max Strus who are in line for big paydays for the first time. Trades are still a possibility, especially since James Harden has picked up his player option. And teams now have to navigate new rules that come with the new Collective Bargaining Agreement that goes into effect on Saturday.Jaguars LT Cam Robinson suspended 4 games for violating NFL policy on PEDsJACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The NFL has suspended Jacksonville Jaguars left tackle Cam Robinson for the first four games of the regular season for violating league policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Robinson and the team had been awaiting his punishment for more than two months. Knowing it was coming, the Jaguars signed veteran and oft-injured backup Josh Wells to a one-year deal in early April and then used their first-round draft pick on Oklahoma offensive tackle Anton Harrison. They hope those moves will help offset being without Robinson for nearly a quarter of the season. Robinson's suspension is without pay, meaning he will lose roughly $900,000 a game. He's the highest-paid player on Jacksonville's roster.NHL draft wraps up with 11 picks for Chicago, dearth of trades ahead of free agencyNASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Chicago Blackhawks acquired their latest generational talent along with a big dose of speed in one of the NHL's largest draft hauls. They also made another big move for their future Thursday by adding veteran Corey Perry to help teach No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard how to be the leader the Blackhawks need to contend for a Stanley Cup. Chicago general manager Kyle Davidson says he couldn't be happier with how this draft worked out with 11 players taken. The Anaheim Ducks added a big Swedish center to their young, talented offense in Leo Carlsson at No. 2 overall.All Hail the Rockies! Pea-sized hail makes Coors Field a winter wonderland ahead of Dodgers gameDENVER (AP) — Elias Diaz of the Colorado Rockies stretched and dove, head first, making quite a splash. The Rockies catcher wasn't stealing a base or avoiding a tag. Instead, Diaz was sliding on the hail-covered tarp of Coors Field hours before Colorado hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night. The Denver area was hit with heavy rain, high winds and pea-sized hail, transforming the green outfield grass into ice-covered turf and delaying the start of the series finale for an hour and 50 minutes.Taylor Moore, Peter Kuest lead Rocket Mortgage Classic; Dylan Wu 1 back after albatrossDETROIT (AP) — Taylor Moore and Monday qualifier Peter Kuest shot 8-under 64s to share the first-round lead in the Rocket Mortgage Classic. A slew of players are chasing them in what's expected to be a shootout at Detroit Golf Club. Dylan Wu had the third albatross on the PGA Tour this season and shot 65, joining Sam Ryder, Aaron Rai, Ludvig Aberg, Sam Bennett, Justin Suh and Adam Schenk. Collin Morikawa was among those two shots back while Rickie Fowler was three off the lead at Detroit Golf Club. Some notable names were nowhere near the top of the leaderboard, including major champions Justin Thomas and Hideki Matsuyama.AP-ScorecardHere are the latest scores from today's sports events:___INTERLEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	6	Arizona	1	Final	Miami	2	Boston	0	Final	Toronto	2	San Francisco	1	Final	Houston	14	St. Louis	0	___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Kansas City	4	Cleveland	3	Final	Detroit	8	Texas	5	Final	N.Y. Yankees	10	Oakland	4	Final	Chicago White Sox	9	L.A. Angels	7	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		L.A. Dodgers	2	Colorado	1	(Bot 3rd)Final	Pittsburgh	5	San Diego	4	Final	Milwaukee	3	N.Y. Mets	2	Final	Philadelphia	3	Chicago Cubs	1	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION		Phoenix	64	Indiana	48	(in progress)		Minnesota	64	Seattle	63	(in progress)		Las Vegas	70	New York	51	(in progress)___

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Friday

WICHITA, Kan.—Wichita grabbed the lead in the third from a two-run home run by Aaron Sabato that the Surge held for the rest of the ball game. The Wichita Wind Surge defeated the Northwest Arkansas Naturals 3-1 and are now leading the home series two games to none.

For the second game in a row Tyler Tolbert hit a solo home run as the lead-off batter for NW Arkansas in the top of the first inning.

Alex Isola tied the game up in the bottom of the same inning. He hit a two out line drive to center field that drove in a run.

Sabato put the Surge in the lead with his two out two-run home run in the bottom of the third that was hit over the left field wall.

Pierson Ohl was the starting pitcher for Wichita and got his first Double-A win of the season. He pitched five full innings, gave up one run on five hits and struck out three batters. Chandler Champlain was the starting pitcher for NW Arkansas and was credited with the loss. He pitched four full innings, gave up three runs on six hits and struck out four batters.

The Wichita Wind Surge improve to (2-0),(30-40) and the NW Arkansas Naturals fall to (0-2),(29-42).

NOTES: Patrick Winkel saw his ten-game hitting streak end today. Wichita improved to 3-3 in Turbo Tubs uniforms. The win is the 10th&nbsp;of the season for the Wind Surge starting rotation. The Wind Surge are in first place for the second half of the season.

BROADCAST: ESPN 92.3 FM, Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Ballys Live app.

UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their home series against the Naturals. Game three will be played at 7:05 PM on Fireworks Friday at Riverfront. RH Carlos Luna for Wichita will face RH Beck Way for NW Arkansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688097305444.jpeg" alt="Surge win over Naturals" />
 <figcaption>Surge win over Naturals</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.—Wichita grabbed the lead in the third from a two-run home run by Aaron Sabato that the Surge held for the rest of the ball game. The Wichita Wind Surge defeated the Northwest Arkansas Naturals 3-1 and are now leading the home series two games to none.For the second game in a row Tyler Tolbert hit a solo home run as the lead-off batter for NW Arkansas in the top of the first inning.Alex Isola tied the game up in the bottom of the same inning. He hit a two out line drive to center field that drove in a run.Sabato put the Surge in the lead with his two out two-run home run in the bottom of the third that was hit over the left field wall.Pierson Ohl was the starting pitcher for Wichita and got his first Double-A win of the season. He pitched five full innings, gave up one run on five hits and struck out three batters. Chandler Champlain was the starting pitcher for NW Arkansas and was credited with the loss. He pitched four full innings, gave up three runs on six hits and struck out four batters.The Wichita Wind Surge improve to (2-0),(30-40) and the NW Arkansas Naturals fall to (0-2),(29-42).NOTES: Patrick Winkel saw his ten-game hitting streak end today. Wichita improved to 3-3 in Turbo Tubs uniforms. The win is the 10th&nbsp;of the season for the Wind Surge starting rotation. The Wind Surge are in first place for the second half of the season.BROADCAST: ESPN 92.3 FM, Milb First Pitch App,&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,dexWbEMmO2SNZFacaCKfVJIV48UFXNwoAwE4zyM2KXaD_HSgx84zoOHAglON-gUjtBR3aBrV7b7fNPJsxVGXCgYR5cYPta1xJgIbXkHri2NTnYdJ6WV7jsuz044,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1">Windsurge.com</a>, MiLB.tv and Ballys Live app.UPCOMING: The Wind Surge continue their home series against the Naturals. Game three will be played at 7:05 PM on Fireworks Friday at Riverfront. RH Carlos Luna for Wichita will face RH Beck Way for NW Arkansas.

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge secure second win in a row at home

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —José Ramirez daringly stole home for the go-ahead run in the 10th inning, but the Kansas City Royals rebounded to beat the Cleveland Guardians 4-3 Thursday on pinch-hitter Freddy Fermin’s two-run double in the bottom half.

Even with the win, the Royals reached the season’s midpoint at 23-58, the worst first-half record in team history.

Cleveland manager Terry Francona was in attendance but was not in uniform as an on-going precaution against health concerns. Bench coach DeMarlo Hale managed the Guardians.

Ramirez started the 10th on second base as the automatic runner and advanced on Josh Naylor’s groundout. Josh Bell struck out and with an 0-2 count on Andrés Giménez and left-hander Aroldis Chapman (4-2) working from the stretch, Ramirez took five small steps toward the plate and burst home.

Ramirez noticed third baseman Maikel Garcia playing behind the base and told third base coach Mike Sarbaugh “I’m going to try to steal home.”

“There were two outs, so I decided to take a chance,” Ramirez said.

He slid headfirst and with his body to the infield side of the line, slapped his right hand on the plate as catcher Salvador Perez gloved the high sinker and lunged forward. Umpire Jeremy Riggs called Ramirez out, but the call was reversed in a video review.

“Just instincts. That’s why he’s a great player.” Hale said. “He’s not afraid to play the game with his instincts. He’d seen an advantage and he took it. He felt he could make it and he did. Great slide.”

Cleveland had not stolen homer since Leonys Martin on June 15, 2019.

“He’s amazing,” Guardians starter Shane Bieber said. “We rely upon him in so many different ways, for him to come up again in another different type of way to do it. It was too bad we couldn’t end up on top after that, because we’d like that to be the marquee play of the game, but he provides those all the time.”

Nicky Lopez singled off Emmanuel Clase (1-5) leading off the bottom of the 10th, moving automatic runner Kyle Isbel to third.

“Whenever I get in the box it’s ‘how can I get on first base’,” Lopez said. “I take a lot of pride in getting on base, so I was trying to do something.”

Drew Waters took a called third strike, bringing up the pitcher’s spot in the order created when designated Bobby Witt Jr. replaced Garcia at shortstop on the ninth inning. Fermin lined a pitch into the left-field corner, easily scoring Isbel and allowing Lopez to score standing up.

“I’ve faced him before,” Fermin said. “Just ready for the cutter and the slider, looking for something up and made a good swing.”

Clase blew a save for the sixth time in 30 chances.

Cleveland built a 2-0 lead in the fifth on Ramirez’s sacrifice fly and Bell’s two-out RBI single. Kansas City tied the score in the eighth on Edward Olivares’ sacrifice fly and Nick Pratto’s two-out, run-scoring single against Trevor Stephan.

Bieber faced two batters over the minimum, working around leadoff doubles in the second and third innings. He allowed just the two hits in six shutout innings and struck out eight, one on Waters’ pitch-clock violation that ended the fifth.

“It was a grind,” Bieber said. “To be honest, it was one of those games that I look forward to, dealing with adversity.”

Royals starter Zack Greinke surrendered 11 hits and two walks, but limited the Guardians to two runs over six innings while stranding eight baserunners. He is 0-4 in 10 starts since beating Baltimore on May 3.

“Mainly just three extra outs on the bases, which helped,” Greinke said. “They win a lot of games doing that. It just kind of worked out good for us today.”

Naylor had two of the Guardian’s 13 hits and is hitting .398 (43 for 108) in his last 26 games.

“We left a lot of men on,” Hale said. “We did have our opportunities. It hurts to lose this kind of game with the pitching performance we got from Bieber.”

Guardians LHP Logan Allen was optioned to Triple-A Columbus and RHP Michael Kelly recalled from Columbus.

RHP Cal Quantrill (2-4, 5.61 ERA) will be activated from the 10-day IL (right shoulder inflammation) to start at the Chicago Cubs on Friday.

Dodgers RHP Bobby Miller (3-1, 4.13) will oppose Royals RHP Jordan Lyles (1-11, 6.68) in Friday’s series opener.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688075714501.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Nicky Lopez celebrates after scoring the game-winning run on a two-run double by Freddy Fermin during the tenth inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Thursday, June 29, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The Royals won 4-3 in ten innings. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Nicky Lopez celebrates after scoring the game-winning run on a two-run double by Freddy Fermin during the tenth inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Thursday, June 29, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The Royals won 4-3 in ten innings. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —José Ramirez daringly stole home for the go-ahead run in the 10th inning, but the Kansas City Royals rebounded to beat the Cleveland Guardians 4-3 Thursday on pinch-hitter Freddy Fermin’s two-run double in the bottom half.Even with the win, the Royals reached the season’s midpoint at 23-58, the worst first-half record in team history.<figure>
 <img src="https://dims.apnews.com/dims4/default/a0d2f29/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5103x2868+0+267/resize/500x281!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.apnews.com%2Ff5%2F39%2F5305a0e3372b28fa88c43590c982%2F6658e9f9f9fe4f64aaffe8be92b24c8e" alt="Guardians manager Terry Francona out of hospital, advised to rest after becoming ill before game" />
 <figcaption>Guardians manager Terry Francona out of hospital, advised to rest after becoming ill before game</figcaption>
 </figure>Cleveland manager Terry Francona was in attendance but was not in uniform as an on-going precaution against health concerns. Bench coach DeMarlo Hale managed the Guardians.Ramirez started the 10th on second base as the automatic runner and advanced on Josh Naylor’s groundout. Josh Bell struck out and with an 0-2 count on Andrés Giménez and left-hander Aroldis Chapman (4-2) working from the stretch, Ramirez took five small steps toward the plate and burst home.Ramirez noticed third baseman Maikel Garcia playing behind the base and told third base coach Mike Sarbaugh “I’m going to try to steal home.”Sarbaugh told him to go for it.“There were two outs, so I decided to take a chance,” Ramirez said.He slid headfirst and with his body to the infield side of the line, slapped his right hand on the plate as catcher Salvador Perez gloved the high sinker and lunged forward. Umpire Jeremy Riggs called Ramirez out, but the call was reversed in a video review.“Just instincts. That’s why he’s a great player.” Hale said. “He’s not afraid to play the game with his instincts. He’d seen an advantage and he took it. He felt he could make it and he did. Great slide.”Cleveland had not stolen homer since Leonys Martin on June 15, 2019.“He’s amazing,” Guardians starter Shane Bieber said. “We rely upon him in so many different ways, for him to come up again in another different type of way to do it. It was too bad we couldn’t end up on top after that, because we’d like that to be the marquee play of the game, but he provides those all the time.”Nicky Lopez singled off Emmanuel Clase (1-5) leading off the bottom of the 10th, moving automatic runner Kyle Isbel to third.“Whenever I get in the box it’s ‘how can I get on first base’,” Lopez said. “I take a lot of pride in getting on base, so I was trying to do something.”Drew Waters took a called third strike, bringing up the pitcher’s spot in the order created when designated Bobby Witt Jr. replaced Garcia at shortstop on the ninth inning. Fermin lined a pitch into the left-field corner, easily scoring Isbel and allowing Lopez to score standing up.“I’ve faced him before,” Fermin said. “Just ready for the cutter and the slider, looking for something up and made a good swing.”Clase blew a save for the sixth time in 30 chances.Cleveland built a 2-0 lead in the fifth on Ramirez’s sacrifice fly and Bell’s two-out RBI single. Kansas City tied the score in the eighth on Edward Olivares’ sacrifice fly and Nick Pratto’s two-out, run-scoring single against Trevor Stephan.Bieber faced two batters over the minimum, working around leadoff doubles in the second and third innings. He allowed just the two hits in six shutout innings and struck out eight, one on Waters’ pitch-clock violation that ended the fifth.“It was a grind,” Bieber said. “To be honest, it was one of those games that I look forward to, dealing with adversity.”Royals starter Zack Greinke surrendered 11 hits and two walks, but limited the Guardians to two runs over six innings while stranding eight baserunners. He is 0-4 in 10 starts since beating Baltimore on May 3.“Mainly just three extra outs on the bases, which helped,” Greinke said. “They win a lot of games doing that. It just kind of worked out good for us today.”Naylor had two of the Guardian’s 13 hits and is hitting .398 (43 for 108) in his last 26 games.“We left a lot of men on,” Hale said. “We did have our opportunities. It hurts to lose this kind of game with the pitching performance we got from Bieber.”<h2>TRANSACTIONS</h2>Guardians LHP Logan Allen was optioned to Triple-A Columbus and RHP Michael Kelly recalled from Columbus.<h2>UP NEXT</h2>RHP Cal Quantrill (2-4, 5.61 ERA) will be activated from the 10-day IL (right shoulder inflammation) to start at the Chicago Cubs on Friday.Dodgers RHP Bobby Miller (3-1, 4.13) will oppose Royals RHP Jordan Lyles (1-11, 6.68) in Friday’s series opener.

⚾ Ramirez steal of home not enough as Fermin’s double in 10th lifts Royals over Guardians

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals hope to settle on the location for a new ballpark by the end of the summer, and owner John Sherman said Thursday that he envisions the club playing in a new stadium by the 2027 or 2028 season.

The long-preferred site is near downtown Kansas City, where the park would be the centerpiece of a redevelopment project that links the eastern part of the metro to the vibrant area near T-Mobile Center. The location would keep the club in Jackson County, though far from the current Kauffman Stadium, and continue a trend of using sports to spearhead urban renewal.

But complicating matters has been a competing bid from Clay County, which sits across the Missouri River from downtown Kansas City. There is more space available for a ballpark village, much like the entertainment district that has sprung up around Truist Park in Atlanta, and that could help the small-market organization generate much-needed long-term revenue.

“We've always said ‘downtown or near downtown,'” said Sherman, who purchased the club in November 2019 from the late David Glass. “It's a highly motivated and creative bunch (in Clay County), but we've been partners with Jackson County and in Kansas City for 52 years. We value that relationship. We want them to give us their best shot, and we're going to give them our best shot to do it there. But I think we should be clear that there is certainly an alternative to that area.”

The decision, like most when it comes to building stadiums, could come down to finances.

The Royals have shared the Truman Sports Complex with the Kansas City Chiefs dating to the construction of both Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium. Part of the current lease agreement calls for a 3/8-cent sales tax that goes toward the upkeep of both facilities, and that in turn has allowed each to far outlive other stadiums built during the same era.

Sherman said the Royals want that sales tax to continue — it would likely be on the ballot in the spring — with the roughly $350 million that it produces in public funding shifted toward the construction of a new stadium.

“Ownership will take the rest,” Sherman said. “It's a $2 billion project, probably more when you think of infrastructure.”

The Royals also have been in constant communication with the Chiefs, who are going through their own rounds of feasibility studies for Arrowhead Stadium. Like the Royals, their lease expires in 2030-31, and the Chiefs are trying to decide whether the stadium can undergo additional renovations or whether an entirely new stadium should be built.

The Royals quickly dismissed more renovations to Kauffman Stadium, where the concrete is beginning to show irreparable. It remains widely regarded as one of the most picturesque in baseball, but it also has grown antiquated when it comes to premium offerings that generate the sort of revenue that is necessary for teams to compete these days.

“We knew when we bought this team we were approaching the end of a lease with Jackson County. We knew we were in an aging building,” Sherman said. “This is the most important thing we'll have the opportunity to do while we have the privilege of being stewards of this franchise. This will be the largest private-public partnership in the history of Kansas City. It has a massive and immediate community impact, and economic impact. That's why we have a great sense of urgency of getting on with it.”

Sherman did acknowledge the awkward timing of the project. The Royals are languishing in last place in the AL Central, and are having one of the worst seasons in franchise history, which makes asking for public money a difficult proposition.

But he also doesn't want the Royals to follow in the footsteps of the Athletics, who called Kansas City home before their move to Oakland. The A's tried for decades to get a new ballpark built in the Bay Area, but they are now going through the relocation application process with MLB that could result in the team building a new ballpark in Las Vegas.

“I have about 30 letters on my desk asking to vote ‘no’ on the transfer of the A's to Las Vegas. That's a process that drug on a long time, and people waited,” Sherman said. “We're at warp speed compared to how long these complicated projects usually take. We are down to two sites. We're going to be ready to have that down to one by the end of the summer.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688096601525.jpeg" alt="New Stadium.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>New Stadium.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals hope to settle on the location for a new ballpark by the end of the summer, and owner John Sherman said Thursday that he envisions the club playing in a new stadium by the 2027 or 2028 season.The long-preferred site is near downtown Kansas City, where the park would be the centerpiece of a redevelopment project that links the eastern part of the metro to the vibrant area near T-Mobile Center. The location would keep the club in Jackson County, though far from the current Kauffman Stadium, and continue a trend of using sports to spearhead urban renewal.But complicating matters has been a competing bid from Clay County, which sits across the Missouri River from downtown Kansas City. There is more space available for a ballpark village, much like the entertainment district that has sprung up around Truist Park in Atlanta, and that could help the small-market organization generate much-needed long-term revenue.“We've always said ‘downtown or near downtown,'” said Sherman, who purchased the club in November 2019 from the late David Glass. “It's a highly motivated and creative bunch (in Clay County), but we've been partners with Jackson County and in Kansas City for 52 years. We value that relationship. We want them to give us their best shot, and we're going to give them our best shot to do it there. But I think we should be clear that there is certainly an alternative to that area.”The decision, like most when it comes to building stadiums, could come down to finances.The Royals have shared the Truman Sports Complex with the Kansas City Chiefs dating to the construction of both Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium. Part of the current lease agreement calls for a 3/8-cent sales tax that goes toward the upkeep of both facilities, and that in turn has allowed each to far outlive other stadiums built during the same era.Sherman said the Royals want that sales tax to continue — it would likely be on the ballot in the spring — with the roughly $350 million that it produces in public funding shifted toward the construction of a new stadium.“Ownership will take the rest,” Sherman said. “It's a $2 billion project, probably more when you think of infrastructure.”The Royals also have been in constant communication with the Chiefs, who are going through their own rounds of feasibility studies for Arrowhead Stadium. Like the Royals, their lease expires in 2030-31, and the Chiefs are trying to decide whether the stadium can undergo additional renovations or whether an entirely new stadium should be built.The Royals quickly dismissed more renovations to Kauffman Stadium, where the concrete is beginning to show irreparable. It remains widely regarded as one of the most picturesque in baseball, but it also has grown antiquated when it comes to premium offerings that generate the sort of revenue that is necessary for teams to compete these days.“We knew when we bought this team we were approaching the end of a lease with Jackson County. We knew we were in an aging building,” Sherman said. “This is the most important thing we'll have the opportunity to do while we have the privilege of being stewards of this franchise. This will be the largest private-public partnership in the history of Kansas City. It has a massive and immediate community impact, and economic impact. That's why we have a great sense of urgency of getting on with it.”Sherman did acknowledge the awkward timing of the project. The Royals are languishing in last place in the AL Central, and are having one of the worst seasons in franchise history, which makes asking for public money a difficult proposition.But he also doesn't want the Royals to follow in the footsteps of the Athletics, who called Kansas City home before their move to Oakland. The A's tried for decades to get a new ballpark built in the Bay Area, but they are now going through the relocation application process with MLB that could result in the team building a new ballpark in Las Vegas.“I have about 30 letters on my desk asking to vote ‘no’ on the transfer of the A's to Las Vegas. That's a process that drug on a long time, and people waited,” Sherman said. “We're at warp speed compared to how long these complicated projects usually take. We are down to two sites. We're going to be ready to have that down to one by the end of the summer.”

⚾ Royals owner John Sherman envisions new stadium by 2027 or 2028 season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his fifth career grand slam and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 14-1. Cleveland moved into first place in the AL Central despite a losing record. Ramírez lined a first-pitch cutter from Austin Cox into the left-field bullpen after Cox opened the third by allowing a single and two walks. It was the slugger’s 13th homer this season. Josh Bell hit a 464-foot, two-run homer for the Guardians in the fifth. Cox took the loss in his first major league start. He had begun his career with 12 1/3 scoreless innings in relief.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jose Altuve hit a three-run homer in Houston’s five-run eighth inning and the Astros rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 10-7 on Wednesday night. Jose Abreu added a two-run homer for Houston, which had lost three of its previous four games. The Astros overcame a 7-5 deficit in the eighth. After missing the previous two games because of a heel injury, Altuve reached base five times. His drive off reliever Giovanny Gallegos put the Astros in front to stay at 8-7. Abreu unloaded two batters later, also off Gallegos. Seth Martinez (2-3) picked up the win with a scoreless inning of relief. Ryan Pressly finished for his 15th save. Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt and Brendan Donovan homered for St. Louis.

DENVER (AP) — Ezequiel Tovar hit a three-run double in a five-run sixth inning to rally the Colorado Rockies over the Los Angeles Dodgers, 9-8 on Wednesday night. The rookie shortstop also singled in extending his hitting streak to 11 games. Mookie Betts homered and Yonny Hernández drove in three runs for Los Angeles. Michael Grove was in line for the win after pitching five innings, but Colorado rallied in the sixth. Victor González (2-3) loaded the bases with one out, Nick Robertson walked in a run and Tovar lined a double to the wall in center to drive in three. He then scored on Elías Díaz’s single.

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Domingo Germán of the New York Yankees has pitched the 24th perfect game in major league history, retiring every Oakland batter in an 11-0 victory over the Athletics. It was the first perfect game since Seattle Mariners ace Félix Hernández threw one against the Tampa Bay Rays on Aug. 15, 2012. There were three that season — but none since until Germán finished the first no-hitter in the big leagues this year. Coming off a pair of terrible starts, Germán struck out nine against the A’s, who have the worst record in the majors. The 30-year-old right-hander had never before thrown a complete game in the big leagues. He was winless in six previous outings against Oakland.

NEW YORK (AP) — Mets owner Steven Cohen is threatening his underperforming team with the prospect of a trade deadline selloff unless New York gets back into contention for a playoff berth. Cohen said manager Buck Showalter and general manager Billy Eppler will keep their jobs no matter that through the end of the season, but the team is still pursuing a president of baseball operations. For this year, older players could be at risk of getting dealt. Cohen said he would be willing to cover their salaries in trades if it brought back better prospects. New York currently projects to a $360 million payroll and is on track for a record luxury tax of about $99 million.

UNDATED (AP) — Victor Wembanyama’s official height is 7 feet, 3 1/2 inches. That's according to the San Antonio Spurs, who got the actual measurement over the weekend. It ends months of speculation about how tall Wembanyama is. Some sites have listed him as tall as 7-foot-5. Also Wednesday, it was announced that Wembanyama's NBA summer debut is expected to come in Las Vegas. The Spurs said the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft will be with the team at NBA Summer League that starts July 7. Wembanyama won't accompany the Spurs when they travel later this week for the California Classic — the first of two summer league appearances for the club next month.

UNDATED (AP) — Two people familiar with the plan say the NFL is finalizing disciplinary action against more players for gambling violations, including Indianapolis Colts defensive back Isaiah Rodgers Sr. The people spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because an official announcement won’t be made until later this week. Rodgers is the only identified player of the group, identifying himself in a Twitter post as the Colts player accused of gambling earlier this month. The identities of the other players are not yet known. A year-long suspension would be consistent with similar punishments handed down by the NFL.

SAINT-DENIS, France (AP) — Tony Estanguet won gold medals for canoeing in the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Olympic Games. Now, the trim 45-year-old is the face and chief organizer of the 2024 Paris Games. He presides over a rapidly growing workforce whose preparations were progressing largely smoothly before financial crime investigators raided their headquarters last week. In an interview with The Associated Press, Estanguet insists that the two French police probes into Olympic-related contracts bear no comparison with corruption and ethics scandals that have dogged the Olympic movement and its flagship money-spinning event for decades. He says senior colleagues who are subject to the investigations will not resign “for the moment.”

UNDATED (AP) — Simone Biles is back. The gymnastics superstar plans to return to competition at the U.S. Classic outside Chicago in early August. The meet will be Biles' first since the pandemic-delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Biles made headlines at the 2020 Games when she removed herself from several events to focus on her mental health. She returned on the last day of the meet to earn bronze on the balance beam, her seventh career Olympic medal. Biles will be joined at the U.S. Classic by 2020 Olympic champion Sunisa Lee.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jesús Ferreira scored his second international hat trick, Djordje Mihailovic had two goals and the 13th-ranked United States overwhelmed No. 139 St. Kitts and Nevis 6-0 in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Mihailovic, Bryan Reynolds and Ferreira scored in a 3-minute, 50-second span to build a 3-0 lead by the 16th minute. Ferreira has 11 goals in 20 appearances. Mihailovic also had two assists for the defending champion Americans, who matched their largest Gold Cup victory margin. The U.S. leads Group A with four points and closes group play Sunday against Trinidad and Tobago.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683366121627.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, June 29th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, June 29th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his fifth career grand slam and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 14-1. Cleveland moved into first place in the AL Central despite a losing record. Ramírez lined a first-pitch cutter from Austin Cox into the left-field bullpen after Cox opened the third by allowing a single and two walks. It was the slugger’s 13th homer this season. Josh Bell hit a 464-foot, two-run homer for the Guardians in the fifth. Cox took the loss in his first major league start. He had begun his career with 12 1/3 scoreless innings in relief.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jose Altuve hit a three-run homer in Houston’s five-run eighth inning and the Astros rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 10-7 on Wednesday night. Jose Abreu added a two-run homer for Houston, which had lost three of its previous four games. The Astros overcame a 7-5 deficit in the eighth. After missing the previous two games because of a heel injury, Altuve reached base five times. His drive off reliever Giovanny Gallegos put the Astros in front to stay at 8-7. Abreu unloaded two batters later, also off Gallegos. Seth Martinez (2-3) picked up the win with a scoreless inning of relief. Ryan Pressly finished for his 15th save. Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt and Brendan Donovan homered for St. Louis.DENVER (AP) — Ezequiel Tovar hit a three-run double in a five-run sixth inning to rally the Colorado Rockies over the Los Angeles Dodgers, 9-8 on Wednesday night. The rookie shortstop also singled in extending his hitting streak to 11 games. Mookie Betts homered and Yonny Hernández drove in three runs for Los Angeles. Michael Grove was in line for the win after pitching five innings, but Colorado rallied in the sixth. Victor González (2-3) loaded the bases with one out, Nick Robertson walked in a run and Tovar lined a double to the wall in center to drive in three. He then scored on Elías Díaz’s single.OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Domingo Germán of the New York Yankees has pitched the 24th perfect game in major league history, retiring every Oakland batter in an 11-0 victory over the Athletics. It was the first perfect game since Seattle Mariners ace Félix Hernández threw one against the Tampa Bay Rays on Aug. 15, 2012. There were three that season — but none since until Germán finished the first no-hitter in the big leagues this year. Coming off a pair of terrible starts, Germán struck out nine against the A’s, who have the worst record in the majors. The 30-year-old right-hander had never before thrown a complete game in the big leagues. He was winless in six previous outings against Oakland.NEW YORK (AP) — Mets owner Steven Cohen is threatening his underperforming team with the prospect of a trade deadline selloff unless New York gets back into contention for a playoff berth. Cohen said manager Buck Showalter and general manager Billy Eppler will keep their jobs no matter that through the end of the season, but the team is still pursuing a president of baseball operations. For this year, older players could be at risk of getting dealt. Cohen said he would be willing to cover their salaries in trades if it brought back better prospects. New York currently projects to a $360 million payroll and is on track for a record luxury tax of about $99 million.UNDATED (AP) — Victor Wembanyama’s official height is 7 feet, 3 1/2 inches. That's according to the San Antonio Spurs, who got the actual measurement over the weekend. It ends months of speculation about how tall Wembanyama is. Some sites have listed him as tall as 7-foot-5. Also Wednesday, it was announced that Wembanyama's NBA summer debut is expected to come in Las Vegas. The Spurs said the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft will be with the team at NBA Summer League that starts July 7. Wembanyama won't accompany the Spurs when they travel later this week for the California Classic — the first of two summer league appearances for the club next month.UNDATED (AP) — Two people familiar with the plan say the NFL is finalizing disciplinary action against more players for gambling violations, including Indianapolis Colts defensive back Isaiah Rodgers Sr. The people spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because an official announcement won’t be made until later this week. Rodgers is the only identified player of the group, identifying himself in a Twitter post as the Colts player accused of gambling earlier this month. The identities of the other players are not yet known. A year-long suspension would be consistent with similar punishments handed down by the NFL.SAINT-DENIS, France (AP) — Tony Estanguet won gold medals for canoeing in the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Olympic Games. Now, the trim 45-year-old is the face and chief organizer of the 2024 Paris Games. He presides over a rapidly growing workforce whose preparations were progressing largely smoothly before financial crime investigators raided their headquarters last week. In an interview with The Associated Press, Estanguet insists that the two French police probes into Olympic-related contracts bear no comparison with corruption and ethics scandals that have dogged the Olympic movement and its flagship money-spinning event for decades. He says senior colleagues who are subject to the investigations will not resign “for the moment.”UNDATED (AP) — Simone Biles is back. The gymnastics superstar plans to return to competition at the U.S. Classic outside Chicago in early August. The meet will be Biles' first since the pandemic-delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Biles made headlines at the 2020 Games when she removed herself from several events to focus on her mental health. She returned on the last day of the meet to earn bronze on the balance beam, her seventh career Olympic medal. Biles will be joined at the U.S. Classic by 2020 Olympic champion Sunisa Lee.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jesús Ferreira scored his second international hat trick, Djordje Mihailovic had two goals and the 13th-ranked United States overwhelmed No. 139 St. Kitts and Nevis 6-0 in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Mihailovic, Bryan Reynolds and Ferreira scored in a 3-minute, 50-second span to build a 3-0 lead by the 16th minute. Ferreira has 11 goals in 20 appearances. Mihailovic also had two assists for the defending champion Americans, who matched their largest Gold Cup victory margin. The U.S. leads Group A with four points and closes group play Sunday against Trinidad and Tobago.WEDNESDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal Atlanta 3 Minnesota 0Final Washington 4 Seattle 1Final Toronto 6 San Francisco 1Final Miami 6 Boston 2Final Houston 10 St. Louis 7Final Cincinnati 11 Baltimore 7Final Tampa Bay 3 Arizona 2AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Texas 10 Detroit 2Final Cleveland 14 Kansas City 1Final N.Y. Yankees 11 Oakland 0Final Chicago White Sox 11 L.A. Angels 5NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 7 San Diego 1Final Milwaukee 5 N.Y. Mets 2Final Philadelphia 8 Chicago Cubs 5Final Colorado 9 L.A. Dodgers 8<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Thursday

By MARC BOWMAN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his fifth career grand slam and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 14-1 on Wednesday night, moving into first place in the AL Central despite a losing record.

Ramírez lined a first-pitch cutter from Austin Cox into the left-field bullpen after Cox opened the third by allowing a single and two walks.

“He’s been one of the best hitters in the game for a number of years,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The grand slam didn’t even seem like that bad of a pitch.”

“José stole the show, got us on the board early,” Josh Bell said. “A grand slam like that takes the pressure off and allows us to relax in the box. He’s an incredible player, makes the adjustments.”

Ramírez added an RBI double in the seventh and is hitting .411 (30 for 73) with 14 extra-base hits in his last 18 games.

Cleveland has won seven of nine to surpass Minnesota (40-42) in the division standings.

“We kind of expected this, day one of camp,” Bell said. “But we still have a ton of season left to play. We’ve got to take care of every last ballgame. We plan to do that.”

Bell’s two-run homer, a 464-foot drive into the right-field fountains, gave Cleveland a 6-0 lead in the fifth.

“It was cool to not hit a ball 4 feet in front of home," Bell said. "Hopefully, there will be more like that.”

Bell added a two-run double in the sixth as the Guardians batted around against James McArthur, a 26-year-old right-hander who made his major league debut.

Cleveland (39-40) played its second straight game without manager Terry Francona, who was hospitalized overnight and told by doctors to rest when he felt lightheaded before Tuesday’s game.

Bo Naylor connected for his first major league home run, a two-run line drive to left-center in the seven-run sixth, the Guardians’ biggest inning this season. He had a career-high three hits.

Nick Sandlin (4-3), the first of four relievers, got four outs. Starter Logan Allen worked out of several jams, allowing six runners over 3 2/3 innings.

“I thought his stuff was working really well,” Naylor said of Allen, who threw 98 pitches. “The pitch count got a little up. Great stuff. He competed in every situation he was a part of.”

Making his first major league start, Cox (0-1) allowed his first runs after 12 1/3 scoreless innings of relief to begin his career. He surrendered four runs, four hits and four walks in 3 2/3 innings with two strikeouts.

“He was throwing the ball fine,” Quatraro said. “His command was a little erratic. He struggled to sustain the velocity in the heat. His pitch count got up there a little bit. They made him work hard there in the second and third. His stuff was fine. He just lost the zone a little bit.”

First baseman Matt Duffy pitched a scoreless ninth for the Royals, who have lost 10 of their last 12 series, with two splits.

Royals: 2B Nicky Lopez left after being hit by a pitch on his right hand.

With the Guardians seeking a three-game sweep, Shane Bieber (5-5, 3.69 ERA) will oppose Kansas City’s Zach Greinke (1-8, 5.31) on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688008849334.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro (33) takes the ball from starting pitcher Austin Cox after making a pitching change during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro (33) takes the ball from starting pitcher Austin Cox after making a pitching change during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARC BOWMAN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his fifth career grand slam and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 14-1 on Wednesday night, moving into first place in the AL Central despite a losing record.Ramírez lined a first-pitch cutter from Austin Cox into the left-field bullpen after Cox opened the third by allowing a single and two walks.“He’s been one of the best hitters in the game for a number of years,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The grand slam didn’t even seem like that bad of a pitch.”Ramírez has 13 homers this season.“José stole the show, got us on the board early,” Josh Bell said. “A grand slam like that takes the pressure off and allows us to relax in the box. He’s an incredible player, makes the adjustments.”Ramírez added an RBI double in the seventh and is hitting .411 (30 for 73) with 14 extra-base hits in his last 18 games.Cleveland has won seven of nine to surpass Minnesota (40-42) in the division standings.“We kind of expected this, day one of camp,” Bell said. “But we still have a ton of season left to play. We’ve got to take care of every last ballgame. We plan to do that.”Bell’s two-run homer, a 464-foot drive into the right-field fountains, gave Cleveland a 6-0 lead in the fifth.“It was cool to not hit a ball 4 feet in front of home," Bell said. "Hopefully, there will be more like that.”Bell added a two-run double in the sixth as the Guardians batted around against James McArthur, a 26-year-old right-hander who made his major league debut.Cleveland (39-40) played its second straight game without manager Terry Francona, who was hospitalized overnight and told by doctors to rest when he felt lightheaded before Tuesday’s game.Bo Naylor connected for his first major league home run, a two-run line drive to left-center in the seven-run sixth, the Guardians’ biggest inning this season. He had a career-high three hits.Nick Sandlin (4-3), the first of four relievers, got four outs. Starter Logan Allen worked out of several jams, allowing six runners over 3 2/3 innings.“I thought his stuff was working really well,” Naylor said of Allen, who threw 98 pitches. “The pitch count got a little up. Great stuff. He competed in every situation he was a part of.”Making his first major league start, Cox (0-1) allowed his first runs after 12 1/3 scoreless innings of relief to begin his career. He surrendered four runs, four hits and four walks in 3 2/3 innings with two strikeouts.“He was throwing the ball fine,” Quatraro said. “His command was a little erratic. He struggled to sustain the velocity in the heat. His pitch count got up there a little bit. They made him work hard there in the second and third. His stuff was fine. He just lost the zone a little bit.”First baseman Matt Duffy pitched a scoreless ninth for the Royals, who have lost 10 of their last 12 series, with two splits.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: 2B Nicky Lopez left after being hit by a pitch on his right hand.UP NEXTWith the Guardians seeking a three-game sweep, Shane Bieber (5-5, 3.69 ERA) will oppose Kansas City’s Zach Greinke (1-8, 5.31) on Thursday.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

⚾ José Ramírez hits a grand slam as Guardians beat Royals

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Hutchinson Monarchs split a doubleheader against the Kingman Islanders on Wednesday at Hobart-Detter Field. The Monarchs won game one, 6-0, before falling in the night cap, 4-1. Both games were seven inning contests.

The first game was dominated by Monarchs starting pitcher Tucker Timmerman. The righty went six innings of no-hit baseball, striking out five. Camden Cornelius tossed an inning of relief, giving up a hit to lead off the seventh frame to end the no-hitter.&nbsp;

The Monarchs opened the scoring in the second inning on a grand slam over the right field fence from Blake Bradford, the 15th grand slam in program history and first of the summer. Hutchinson added one more in the third and another in the sixth to extend its lead.

Max Buettenback had the lone multi-hit game for the Monarchs, going 2-for-4 at the plate, while Bradford finished 1-for-3 with the four RBI.

The second game belonged to Kingman Islanders starter, Bradley Neill, the Buhler native. Neill went 6.1 innings, striking out seven and allowing four hits. The former Crusader and current HutchCC Blue Dragon retired eight straight Monarchs from the second to the fifth innings. Neill collected the win, his first of the summer for Kingman (5-14).

Jarrett Flaggert led the Monarchs offense in the second game, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, while Buettenback went 1-for-3 with a double. Ben Waliczek and Jesus Cruz both had a two-hit game for the Islanders.

The Monarchs win the three-game series against the Islanders, 2-1, and close out the first half of the schedule with a 7-11 record. Hutchinson will have off until next Thursday, July 6, when it will host the Wichita Black Sox to open the second half. The Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game will take place on Sunday, July 2 at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— The Hutchinson Monarchs split a doubleheader against the Kingman Islanders on Wednesday at Hobart-Detter Field. The Monarchs won game one, 6-0, before falling in the night cap, 4-1. Both games were seven inning contests.The first game was dominated by Monarchs starting pitcher Tucker Timmerman. The righty went six innings of no-hit baseball, striking out five. Camden Cornelius tossed an inning of relief, giving up a hit to lead off the seventh frame to end the no-hitter.&nbsp;The Monarchs opened the scoring in the second inning on a grand slam over the right field fence from Blake Bradford, the 15th grand slam in program history and first of the summer. Hutchinson added one more in the third and another in the sixth to extend its lead.Max Buettenback had the lone multi-hit game for the Monarchs, going 2-for-4 at the plate, while Bradford finished 1-for-3 with the four RBI.The second game belonged to Kingman Islanders starter, Bradley Neill, the Buhler native. Neill went 6.1 innings, striking out seven and allowing four hits. The former Crusader and current HutchCC Blue Dragon retired eight straight Monarchs from the second to the fifth innings. Neill collected the win, his first of the summer for Kingman (5-14).Jarrett Flaggert led the Monarchs offense in the second game, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, while Buettenback went 1-for-3 with a double. Ben Waliczek and Jesus Cruz both had a two-hit game for the Islanders.The Monarchs win the three-game series against the Islanders, 2-1, and close out the first half of the schedule with a 7-11 record. Hutchinson will have off until next Thursday, July 6, when it will host the Wichita Black Sox to open the second half. The Jayhawk Collegiate League All-Star game will take place on Sunday, July 2 at Al Burns Memorial Field in Great Bend.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

⚾ Monarchs split with Islanders to close out first half

CLEVELAND, OHIO&nbsp;— The University of Kansas finished 65th and Kansas State University finished 92nd in the 2022-23 LEARFIELD Directors' Cup standings.

Texas was the highest Big 12 finisher, placing 2nd, while Oklahoma finished 23rd.

The Directors’ Cup gauges the overall success of institution’s athletic programs by awarding points for each team based on its finish in NCAA Championships. A maximum of 19 sports are counted, four of which must be men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball and baseball.

The LEARFIELD Directors' Cup was developed as a joint effort between the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USA Today. Points are awarded based on each institution's finish in NCAA Championships.

You can find a complete list of the final standings from 2022-23 <a href="https://nacda.com/documents/2023/6/27/Final22.23Standings.pdf">here</a>.

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 </figure>CLEVELAND, OHIO&nbsp;— The University of Kansas finished 65th and Kansas State University finished 92nd in the 2022-23 LEARFIELD Directors' Cup standings.Texas was the highest Big 12 finisher, placing 2nd, while Oklahoma finished 23rd.The Directors’ Cup gauges the overall success of institution’s athletic programs by awarding points for each team based on its finish in NCAA Championships. A maximum of 19 sports are counted, four of which must be men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball and baseball.The LEARFIELD Directors' Cup was developed as a joint effort between the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USA Today. Points are awarded based on each institution's finish in NCAA Championships.You can find a complete list of the final standings from 2022-23 <a href="https://nacda.com/documents/2023/6/27/Final22.23Standings.pdf">here</a>.

KU 65th, K-State 92nd in final LEARFIELD Directors' Cup standings

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/tyson-neighbors/10958">Tyson Neighbors</a>&nbsp;received a pair of All-America accolades Wednesday, as the K-State reliever was voted to the College Baseball Foundation All-American First Team while also earning Second Team recognition by Baseball America.

Neighbors, a NCBWA Stopper of the Year Finalist, becomes just the second Wildcat in school history to claim five All-America accolades in the same season. He joins former K-State star and CBF Pitcher of the Year Finalist A.J. Morris, who received six following his stellar season in 2009 and was later drafted in the fourth round by the Washington Nationals. Going 5-1 with a league-high 11 saves on the season, Neighbors posted a 1.85 ERA over 25 appearances out of the bullpen for the Wildcats. He struck out 86 batters over just 48 2/3 innings and posted an average of 15.9 strikeouts per nine innings. The Royse City, Texas native was second on the team in strikeouts behind weekend starter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/owen-boerema/10978">Owen Boerema</a>&nbsp;and held opponents to a .135 batting average. He was named a Big 12 Pitcher of the Week in addition to his All-Big 12 First Team selection. Neighbors broke the program's TrackMan-era pitch velocity record at 99-mph in the series opening win against Texas Tech. For more information on the All-American teams or the College Baseball Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.collegebaseballfoundation.com/">www.collegebaseballfoundation.com</a>. Neighbors and Wildcats' third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;are playing for the Stars during the Stars vs. Stripes series at the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team Training Camp in Cary, N.C. In game three of the series, Neighbors punched out three of the four batters he faced during his shutout inning while Culpepper split action at third and second base, going 2-for-4 with a pair of runs batted in. The series finale between the Stars and Stripes is scheduled for tonight at 5 p.m. CT. The game can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://usabaseball.watch.pixellot.tv/">usabaseball.watch</a>. The Collegiate National Team selections will represent the United States in a friendship series against Chinese Taipei and Japan starting June 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/tyson-neighbors/10958">Tyson Neighbors</a>&nbsp;received a pair of All-America accolades Wednesday, as the K-State reliever was voted to the College Baseball Foundation All-American First Team while also earning Second Team recognition by Baseball America. Neighbors, a NCBWA Stopper of the Year Finalist, becomes just the second Wildcat in school history to claim five All-America accolades in the same season. He joins former K-State star and CBF Pitcher of the Year Finalist A.J. Morris, who received six following his stellar season in 2009 and was later drafted in the fourth round by the Washington Nationals. Going 5-1 with a league-high 11 saves on the season, Neighbors posted a 1.85 ERA over 25 appearances out of the bullpen for the Wildcats. He struck out 86 batters over just 48 2/3 innings and posted an average of 15.9 strikeouts per nine innings. The Royse City, Texas native was second on the team in strikeouts behind weekend starter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/owen-boerema/10978">Owen Boerema</a>&nbsp;and held opponents to a .135 batting average. He was named a Big 12 Pitcher of the Week in addition to his All-Big 12 First Team selection. Neighbors broke the program's TrackMan-era pitch velocity record at 99-mph in the series opening win against Texas Tech. For more information on the All-American teams or the College Baseball Foundation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.collegebaseballfoundation.com/">www.collegebaseballfoundation.com</a>. Neighbors and Wildcats' third baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kaelen-culpepper/10947">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;are playing for the Stars during the Stars vs. Stripes series at the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team Training Camp in Cary, N.C. In game three of the series, Neighbors punched out three of the four batters he faced during his shutout inning while Culpepper split action at third and second base, going 2-for-4 with a pair of runs batted in. The series finale between the Stars and Stripes is scheduled for tonight at 5 p.m. CT. The game can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://usabaseball.watch.pixellot.tv/">usabaseball.watch</a>. The Collegiate National Team selections will represent the United States in a friendship series against Chinese Taipei and Japan starting June 30.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Neighbors adds pair of All-American accolades

Courtesy of the Big 12 Conference&nbsp;

The student-athletes attending 2023 Big 12 Football Media Days presented by Old Trapper have been announced. In addition to the players, each school’s head coach will also be in attendance. The two-day event will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday, July 12 and Thursday, July 13.&nbsp; This season marks the debut of BYU, UCF, Cincinnati and Houston in the league. ESPNU and Big 12 Now on ESPN+ will provide television coverage beginning at Noon CT on Wednesday and 8:30 a.m. CT on Thursday. Baylor, BYU, Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, TCU and Texas will be present July 12 while UCF, Cincinnati, Iowa State, K-State, Oklahoma, Texas Tech and West Virginia will take the stage July 13. 2023 Big 12 Football Media Days presented by Old Trapper Player Attendees Baylor QB Blake Shapen TE Drake Dabney WR Josh Cameron DL TJ Franklin LB Mike Smith Jr. BYU QB Kedon Slovis WR Kody Epps LB Ben Bywater DE Tyler Batty P Ryan Rehkow UCF WR Javon Baker DT Ricky Barber QB John Rhys Plumlee DE Josh Celiscar OL Lokahi Pauole Cincinnati QB Emory Jones DB Deshawn Pace DL Jowon Briggs DL Dontay Corleone Houston DL Nelson Ceaser OL Jack Freeman LB Hasaan Hypolite OL Patrick Paul Iowa State WR Jaylin Noel DB Beau Freyler DB T.J. Tampa LB Gerry Vaughn Kansas QB Jalon Daniels RB Devin Neal LB Rich Miller S Kenny Logan Jr. K-State QB Will Howard OL Cooper Beebe LB Daniel Green S Kobe Savage Oklahoma QB Dillon Gabriel WR Drake Stoops DL Jonah Laulu LB Danny Stutsman Oklahoma State LB Collin Oliver CB Korie Black WR Brennan Presley OL Preston Wilson TCU S Bud Clark OL Brandon Coleman LB Jamoi Hodge CB Josh Newton TE Jared Wiley Texas QB Quinn Ewers WR Jordan Whittington WR Xavier Worthy LB Jaylan Ford DB Jahdae Barron Texas Tech QB Tyler Shough RB Tahj Brooks DL Tony Bradford Jr. DL Jaylon Hutchings West Virginia OL Zach Frazier&nbsp; OL Doug Nester DL Sean Martin LB Lee Kpogba DB Aubrey Burks&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>Courtesy of the Big 12 Conference&nbsp;The student-athletes attending 2023 Big 12 Football Media Days presented by Old Trapper have been announced. In addition to the players, each school’s head coach will also be in attendance. The two-day event will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday, July 12 and Thursday, July 13.&nbsp; This season marks the debut of BYU, UCF, Cincinnati and Houston in the league. ESPNU and Big 12 Now on ESPN+ will provide television coverage beginning at Noon CT on Wednesday and 8:30 a.m. CT on Thursday. Baylor, BYU, Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, TCU and Texas will be present July 12 while UCF, Cincinnati, Iowa State, K-State, Oklahoma, Texas Tech and West Virginia will take the stage July 13. 2023 Big 12 Football Media Days presented by Old Trapper Player Attendees Baylor QB Blake Shapen TE Drake Dabney WR Josh Cameron DL TJ Franklin LB Mike Smith Jr. BYU QB Kedon Slovis WR Kody Epps LB Ben Bywater DE Tyler Batty P Ryan Rehkow UCF WR Javon Baker DT Ricky Barber QB John Rhys Plumlee DE Josh Celiscar OL Lokahi Pauole Cincinnati QB Emory Jones DB Deshawn Pace DL Jowon Briggs DL Dontay Corleone Houston DL Nelson Ceaser OL Jack Freeman LB Hasaan Hypolite OL Patrick Paul Iowa State WR Jaylin Noel DB Beau Freyler DB T.J. Tampa LB Gerry Vaughn Kansas QB Jalon Daniels RB Devin Neal LB Rich Miller S Kenny Logan Jr. K-State QB Will Howard OL Cooper Beebe LB Daniel Green S Kobe Savage Oklahoma QB Dillon Gabriel WR Drake Stoops DL Jonah Laulu LB Danny Stutsman Oklahoma State LB Collin Oliver CB Korie Black WR Brennan Presley OL Preston Wilson TCU S Bud Clark OL Brandon Coleman LB Jamoi Hodge CB Josh Newton TE Jared Wiley Texas QB Quinn Ewers WR Jordan Whittington WR Xavier Worthy LB Jaylan Ford DB Jahdae Barron Texas Tech QB Tyler Shough RB Tahj Brooks DL Tony Bradford Jr. DL Jaylon Hutchings West Virginia OL Zach Frazier&nbsp; OL Doug Nester DL Sean Martin LB Lee Kpogba DB Aubrey Burks&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 Big 12 reveals Media Days attendees

Courtesy of the United States Golf Association

LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. — The USGA announced on Wednesday that Sand Creek Station, in Newton, Kan., will be the host site of the 3rd U.S. Adaptive Open Championship, set to be held July 8-10, 2024. The course previously hosted the 2014 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. “We are thrilled to announce the next chapter for our newest championship,” said Greg Sanfilippo, USGA senior championship director. “As we head into the 2nd U.S. Adaptive Open in just a few weeks, we’re excited to build on the legacy of last year’s inaugural event, which saw support from across the entire golf community. We know Sand Creek Station and the City of Newton will help us build on the foundation we started in Pinehurst and allow us to continue to showcase the abilities and stories of these incredible athletes.”&nbsp; &nbsp; This will be the second USGA championship conducted at Sand Creek Station, a public course that opened in 2006 and is managed by KemperSports. In 2014, Byron Meth defeated Doug Ghim in 37 holes in the 89th and final U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship ever contested. The course was designed by Jeffrey D. Brauer and is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. It takes its name from the Sand Creek, which borders several holes, and the town’s long history as a stop on the Atchison, Topeka &amp; Santa Fe Railway.&nbsp; &nbsp; “I can’t think of another championship that means more to me than the Adaptive Open,” said Chris Tuohey, regional manager for KemperSports. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime for Sand Creek Station and our community. We look forward to welcoming the world's best adaptive players with open arms.”&nbsp; &nbsp; This will be the 23rd USGA championship contested in Kansas, which most recently hosted the 2017 U.S. Junior Amateur at Flint Hills National Golf&nbsp;Club in Andover, won by Noah Goodwin with a 1-up victory over Matthew Wolff in the championship’s final match. Prairie Dunes Country Club, in Hutchinson, leads the way with eight championships hosted, including the 2002 U.S. Women’s Open, the 2006 U.S. Senior Open and three U.S. Women’s Amateurs. &nbsp; &nbsp; “We are so pleased to welcome the USGA back to Newton and Sand Creek Station for the Adaptive Open Championship,” said Newton Mayor Leroy Koehn. “It’s an honor to host a championship of this magnitude, with such remarkable athletes. This will be a tremendous event for our community, and our team looks forward to welcoming them and watching them take on our course.”&nbsp; &nbsp; The U.S. Adaptive Open is open to both male and female professional and amateur golfers with a Handicap Index of 36.4 or less and an eligible impairment confirmed by a WR4GD Pass. The championship is contested over 54 holes of stroke play. Multiple sets of tees are utilized, and carts are permitted for all players and caddies. A player’s Handicap Index® is the primary factor in determining the field, with the USGA reserving at least five male player spots and two female player spots per impairment category.&nbsp;

This year’s championship will be held for the second straight year at Pinehurst Resort &amp; Country Club’s Course No. 6 from July 10-12.

<figure>
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 </figure>Courtesy of the United States Golf AssociationLIBERTY CORNER, N.J. — The USGA announced on Wednesday that Sand Creek Station, in Newton, Kan., will be the host site of the 3rd U.S. Adaptive Open Championship, set to be held July 8-10, 2024. The course previously hosted the 2014 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship. “We are thrilled to announce the next chapter for our newest championship,” said Greg Sanfilippo, USGA senior championship director. “As we head into the 2nd U.S. Adaptive Open in just a few weeks, we’re excited to build on the legacy of last year’s inaugural event, which saw support from across the entire golf community. We know Sand Creek Station and the City of Newton will help us build on the foundation we started in Pinehurst and allow us to continue to showcase the abilities and stories of these incredible athletes.”&nbsp; &nbsp; This will be the second USGA championship conducted at Sand Creek Station, a public course that opened in 2006 and is managed by KemperSports. In 2014, Byron Meth defeated Doug Ghim in 37 holes in the 89th and final U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship ever contested. The course was designed by Jeffrey D. Brauer and is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. It takes its name from the Sand Creek, which borders several holes, and the town’s long history as a stop on the Atchison, Topeka &amp; Santa Fe Railway.&nbsp; &nbsp; “I can’t think of another championship that means more to me than the Adaptive Open,” said Chris Tuohey, regional manager for KemperSports. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime for Sand Creek Station and our community. We look forward to welcoming the world's best adaptive players with open arms.”&nbsp; &nbsp; This will be the 23rd USGA championship contested in Kansas, which most recently hosted the 2017 U.S. Junior Amateur at Flint Hills National Golf&nbsp;Club in Andover, won by Noah Goodwin with a 1-up victory over Matthew Wolff in the championship’s final match. Prairie Dunes Country Club, in Hutchinson, leads the way with eight championships hosted, including the 2002 U.S. Women’s Open, the 2006 U.S. Senior Open and three U.S. Women’s Amateurs. &nbsp; &nbsp; “We are so pleased to welcome the USGA back to Newton and Sand Creek Station for the Adaptive Open Championship,” said Newton Mayor Leroy Koehn. “It’s an honor to host a championship of this magnitude, with such remarkable athletes. This will be a tremendous event for our community, and our team looks forward to welcoming them and watching them take on our course.”&nbsp; &nbsp; The U.S. Adaptive Open is open to both male and female professional and amateur golfers with a Handicap Index of 36.4 or less and an eligible impairment confirmed by a WR4GD Pass. The championship is contested over 54 holes of stroke play. Multiple sets of tees are utilized, and carts are permitted for all players and caddies. A player’s Handicap Index® is the primary factor in determining the field, with the USGA reserving at least five male player spots and two female player spots per impairment category.&nbsp;This year’s championship will be held for the second straight year at Pinehurst Resort &amp; Country Club’s Course No. 6 from July 10-12.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

⛳ Sand Creek Station to host U.S. Adaptive Open Championship in 2024

Courtesy of the Kansas State High School Activities Association&nbsp;

TOPEKA, Kan. -&nbsp;The Kansas State High School Activities Association Executive Board approved several items during the June meeting. Starting in 2024, State Football will be held at three locations with three games taking place at each site. State soccer and wrestling will also see changes coming in the near future. The board also finalized the SB 113 Policy for home school and non-public school student participation. Though the locations are to be determined at a later date, State Football for 2024 will be held November 29th and 30th with one game on Friday and two games on Saturday at each location. “The KSHSAA is at a point where we want to look at what combining sites in a few of our championships would look like. We believe it can add to the student and fan experience,” said Executive Director Bill Faflick. “Kansas has a rich tradition of great community support where we host championships. We do not anticipate that changing, it will just look slightly different depending on the year and selection of hosts.” The&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;postseason will under go some adjustments as well. All championships will be played at one site starting in the fall of 2024. Adjustment to soccer postseason are: Quarterfinals: -Seeding Criteria Remains the Same (East #1-4 &amp; West #1-4) - Higher seeds host - Play on Monday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) - Postponement/Make-Up Date = Tuesday Semifinals: - Seeding criteria remains the same (East #1 vs. West #2 &amp; West #1 vs. East #2) - Higher seeds host - Play on Wednesday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) - Postponement/Make-Up Date = Thursday Consolation and Championship Finals: - All classes played at one location - Play on Saturday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) Wrestling&nbsp;will also see changes for this school year. Following the previously release change to 4A and 3-1A boys and girls wrestling in Salina, 6A and 5A will follow the same three day format at Hartman Arena. With the approved alterations the State Wrestling Championships will take place February 22, 23 and 24, 2024. The Executive Board also approved the Optimal Performance Calculator (OPC) for use starting this school year. Full details on the state schedule and the OPC use will be sent to school leaders at a later date. Another approved change coming this school year deals with regional dates for&nbsp;baseball&nbsp;at the 3A and 2-1A level. In an effort to help with pitcher availability, the regional seeding date has been moved up to the Saturday of&nbsp; SCW 44 to allow for the first round games of regionals to be played on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday of SCW 45. The second round (semifinals and finals) will take place Monday or Wednesday of&nbsp; SCW 46. Basketball&nbsp;and&nbsp;volleyball&nbsp;postseason formats were discussed and tabled for further discussion. Based upon the inclusion of non-public school student eligibility in the state budget bill, multiple rule modifications are necessary to adhere to House Sub for SB 113 from this year’s legislative session. The new policy language will be distributed to school leaders and posted on the KSHSAA website later this summer. Full details on the above items along with other action from the June KSHSAA Executive Board meeting will be distributed with the minutes in July.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 </figure>Courtesy of the Kansas State High School Activities Association&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. -&nbsp;The Kansas State High School Activities Association Executive Board approved several items during the June meeting. Starting in 2024, State Football will be held at three locations with three games taking place at each site. State soccer and wrestling will also see changes coming in the near future. The board also finalized the SB 113 Policy for home school and non-public school student participation. Though the locations are to be determined at a later date, State Football for 2024 will be held November 29th and 30th with one game on Friday and two games on Saturday at each location. “The KSHSAA is at a point where we want to look at what combining sites in a few of our championships would look like. We believe it can add to the student and fan experience,” said Executive Director Bill Faflick. “Kansas has a rich tradition of great community support where we host championships. We do not anticipate that changing, it will just look slightly different depending on the year and selection of hosts.” The&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;postseason will under go some adjustments as well. All championships will be played at one site starting in the fall of 2024. Adjustment to soccer postseason are: Quarterfinals: -Seeding Criteria Remains the Same (East #1-4 &amp; West #1-4) - Higher seeds host - Play on Monday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) - Postponement/Make-Up Date = Tuesday Semifinals: - Seeding criteria remains the same (East #1 vs. West #2 &amp; West #1 vs. East #2) - Higher seeds host - Play on Wednesday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) - Postponement/Make-Up Date = Thursday Consolation and Championship Finals: - All classes played at one location - Play on Saturday (Boys SCW 18 &amp; Girls SCW 47) Wrestling&nbsp;will also see changes for this school year. Following the previously release change to 4A and 3-1A boys and girls wrestling in Salina, 6A and 5A will follow the same three day format at Hartman Arena. With the approved alterations the State Wrestling Championships will take place February 22, 23 and 24, 2024. The Executive Board also approved the Optimal Performance Calculator (OPC) for use starting this school year. Full details on the state schedule and the OPC use will be sent to school leaders at a later date. Another approved change coming this school year deals with regional dates for&nbsp;baseball&nbsp;at the 3A and 2-1A level. In an effort to help with pitcher availability, the regional seeding date has been moved up to the Saturday of&nbsp; SCW 44 to allow for the first round games of regionals to be played on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday of SCW 45. The second round (semifinals and finals) will take place Monday or Wednesday of&nbsp; SCW 46. Basketball&nbsp;and&nbsp;volleyball&nbsp;postseason formats were discussed and tabled for further discussion. Based upon the inclusion of non-public school student eligibility in the state budget bill, multiple rule modifications are necessary to adhere to House Sub for SB 113 from this year’s legislative session. The new policy language will be distributed to school leaders and posted on the KSHSAA website later this summer. Full details on the above items along with other action from the June KSHSAA Executive Board meeting will be distributed with the minutes in July.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KSHSAA announces key items approved by Executive Board

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gavin Williams held Kansas City to one hit through seven innings in his second major league start, Will Brennan hit a two-run double in the ninth inning, and the Cleveland Guardians rallied past the Royals 2-1. Kansas City had broken a scoreless tie in the eighth on a comebacker by Nicky Lopez against Trevor Stephan, who threw wildly to the plate while trying to cut down the run. Emmanuel Clase worked around another error in the ninth to complete the two-hitter and earn his 24th save. Guardians manager Terry Francona missed the game. He felt ill earlier Tuesday and was taken to a hospital to be evaluated.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery pitched six-hit ball into the seventh inning in his second straight win, and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Houston Astros 4-2. Paul DeJong homered for St. Louis in its return after splitting two games against the Chicago Cubs in London over the weekend. Nolan Arenado had two hits, including an RBI double. It was the first meeting between the teams since St. Louis dropped two of three against Houston in July 2019. Martin Maldonado homered for Houston, which dropped to 7-14 in its last 21 games. Framber Valdez was charged with four runs and eight hits in six innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683366121627.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Wednesday Morning, June 28th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Wednesday Morning, June 28th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gavin Williams held Kansas City to one hit through seven innings in his second major league start, Will Brennan hit a two-run double in the ninth inning, and the Cleveland Guardians rallied past the Royals 2-1. Kansas City had broken a scoreless tie in the eighth on a comebacker by Nicky Lopez against Trevor Stephan, who threw wildly to the plate while trying to cut down the run. Emmanuel Clase worked around another error in the ninth to complete the two-hitter and earn his 24th save. Guardians manager Terry Francona missed the game. He felt ill earlier Tuesday and was taken to a hospital to be evaluated.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery pitched six-hit ball into the seventh inning in his second straight win, and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Houston Astros 4-2. Paul DeJong homered for St. Louis in its return after splitting two games against the Chicago Cubs in London over the weekend. Nolan Arenado had two hits, including an RBI double. It was the first meeting between the teams since St. Louis dropped two of three against Houston in July 2019. Martin Maldonado homered for Houston, which dropped to 7-14 in its last 21 games. Framber Valdez was charged with four runs and eight hits in six innings.DENVER (AP) — Clayton Kershaw carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning, J.D. Martinez homered twice to reach 300 for his career, and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 5-0 on Tuesday night. Kershaw (10-4) gave up one hit and faced the minimum in six innings, throwing only 79 pitches. He struck out two and left with some discomfort.ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani became the first American League pitcher in nearly 60 years to hit two homers and strike out 10 batters in a game, leading the Los Angeles Angels past the Chicago White Sox 4-2 in his latest extraordinary performance. Ohtani, who leads the majors with 28 home runs, hit solo shots in the first and seventh innings. It's first time he has gone deep twice while also pitching. The superstar from Japan struck out 10 in a 6 1/3-inning start that ended because of a cracked fingernail. He's the sixth player in major league history to homer at least twice and strike out at least 10.UNDATED (AP) — New policies in the National Letter of Intent Program will eliminate athletes having to sit out a full season of competition for not complying with NLI rules under some circumstances. The binding agreement between athletes and schools has been part of recruiting since 1964. The Collegiate Commissioners Association no longer will penalize athletes who renege because of a head coaching change or for leaving his or her original school after one quarter or one semester. A release must be requested in both instances. The CCA also is allowing athletes who transfer to another four-year school to sign NLIs.GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — This rookie class of tight ends already made quite an impact on the draft. They’ll have to buck history if they’re going to leave the same type of impression on the field this year. Tight end is one of the toughest positions for rookies to make huge contributions. Only five rookie tight ends in NFL history have caught as many as 60 passes. This year's rookie class features nine tight ends who got drafted in the first three rounds. That's the highest total since the common draft era began in 1967.PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia 76ers are on the brink of entering next season without James Harden. All signs point to Harden declining his $35.6 million option on Thursday and entering this summer as an unrestricted free agent. That leaves the 2018 NBA MVP and 10-time All-Star free to sign with any team. Tobias Harris stumped for a Harden return as he grabbed rebounds and posed for selfies with children Tuesday at a Fanatics promotion. The 76ers lost in the second round of the playoffs. It was another early exit for a team that won 54 games and marked 22 seasons since the franchise reached the Eastern Conference finals. It cost coach Doc Rivers his job.WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek are seeded No. 1 for Wimbledon. Alcaraz and Swiatek were expected to lead the fields because the All England Club adhered to the latest ATP and WTA rankings. Alcaraz overtook Novak Djokovic atop the men’s rankings on Monday. Djokovic has not played since collecting his men’s-record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open on June 11 and slid to No. 2. Alcaraz rose one spot after winning the grass-court tournament at Queen’s Club on Sunday. Swiatek has been No. 1 since April 2022.MUSKOGEE, Okla. (AP) — Police in Muskogee, Oklahoma, are investigating the shooting deaths of three relatives of NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson. Muskogee police spokesperson Lynn Hamlin says the bodies of Jack Janway; his wife, Terry Janway; and their 11-year-old grandson, Dalton Janway, were discovered Monday at a home in Muskogee. Hamlin confirmed the three are the parents and nephew of Johnson's wife, Chandra Janway. Hamlin says investigators believe Terry Janway shot and killed her husband and grandson before shooting herself. Johnson's race team has announced it is withdrawing his No. 84 Carvana Chevrolet from this weekend's NASCAR Cup Series event in Chicago.DESTIN, Fla. (AP) — Former Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett, who also played for New England, Houston and Baltimore during five seasons in the NFL, has died. He was 35. Mallett died in an apparent drowning, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. Mallett was a football coach at White Hall High School in his native Arkansas, and the school district also confirmed his death in a post on its website. Arkansas athletic director Hunter Yurachek said the university “lost an incredibly special person.”TUESDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal Miami 10 Boston 1Final Cincinnati 3 Baltimore 1Final San Francisco 3 Toronto 0Final Atlanta 6 Minnesota 2Final St. Louis 4 Houston 2Final Arizona 8 Tampa Bay 4Final Washington 7 Seattle 4AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Cleveland 2 Kansas City 1Final Texas 8 Detroit 3Final Oakland 2 N.Y. Yankees 1Final L.A. Angels 4 Chicago White Sox 2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Pittsburgh 9 San Diego 4Final N.Y. Mets 7 Milwaukee 2Final Philadelphia 5 Chicago Cubs 1Final L.A. Dodgers 5 Colorado 0<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;