KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs are re-signing Jerick McKinnon and declined the fifth-year option on fellow running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on Tuesday, solidifying their backfield behind incumbent Isiah Pacheco heading into offseason workouts.

McKinnon, who turns 31 this week, ran 72 times for 291 yards and a touchdown but was at his best out of the backfield, catching 56 passes for 512 yards and nine scores. McKinnon ended the regular season by reaching the end zone in six straight games, helping the Chiefs secure the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.

McKinnon helped the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl and could have scored there, but he gave himself up at the 2-yard line in the closing minutes. That allowed the Chiefs to hit the winning field goal in a 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

“He's certainly a guy that we love and greatly admire,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said Monday.

Edwards-Helaire, a first-round pick in 2020, was the starter heading into last season, but injuries that have held him back throughout his career resurfaced. He missed much of the season with a high ankle sprain, forcing Pacheco to step into the role of lead running back, and the seventh-round draft pick never gave it up.

Edwards-Helaire came off injured reserve for the Super Bowl, but was inactive for the game.

In other news, Veach acknowledged that the Chiefs will begin working with All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a contract extension. He's entering the final year of an $80 million, four-year deal, and his salary cap hit is $28 million for this season.

The 28-year-old Jones is coming off perhaps his best season. The four-time Pro Bowl pick matched a career high with 15 1/2 sacks in the regular season, then ended a maddeningly playoff oh-for by picking up his first two postseason sacks.

“I think that's on the list of things to do,” Veach said. “We get into the offseason, and you know, you’re into combine meetings, and then you’re into free agency, and then you’re into the draft. And then after the draft, let the dust settle and start working on the future and things we can get accomplished in the spring.”

Veach indicated that he would like to get an extension done before the Chiefs report to training camp in July.

“We'll get to work and see what we can do,” he said.

There isn't nearly the same time pressure to rework the deal of MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though that could be on the agenda soon. He just completed the first season of a 10-year, $450 million contract, but recent deals — including one signed by the Eagle's Jalen Hurts — already have pushed Mahomes to seventh in the league in average yearly salary.

The benefits of working on Mahomes' contracts are twofold: The Chiefs want to keep him happy by paying him among the top tier of QBs, but they also can create some salary cap flexibility by altering the structure of the deal going forward.

“We're a few years into a long deal,” Veach said, “but at the same time, we have great communication with Pat, so that'll be a situation where we work through all those things. There's no timing from our end because we're in constant communication.”

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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/2021/4/1619843486378.png" alt="Chiefs re-sign McKinnon" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs re-sign McKinnon</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs are re-signing Jerick McKinnon and declined the fifth-year option on fellow running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on Tuesday, solidifying their backfield behind incumbent Isiah Pacheco heading into offseason workouts.McKinnon, who turns 31 this week, ran 72 times for 291 yards and a touchdown but was at his best out of the backfield, catching 56 passes for 512 yards and nine scores. McKinnon ended the regular season by reaching the end zone in six straight games, helping the Chiefs secure the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.McKinnon helped the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl and could have scored there, but he gave himself up at the 2-yard line in the closing minutes. That allowed the Chiefs to hit the winning field goal in a 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.“He's certainly a guy that we love and greatly admire,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said Monday.Edwards-Helaire, a first-round pick in 2020, was the starter heading into last season, but injuries that have held him back throughout his career resurfaced. He missed much of the season with a high ankle sprain, forcing Pacheco to step into the role of lead running back, and the seventh-round draft pick never gave it up.Edwards-Helaire came off injured reserve for the Super Bowl, but was inactive for the game.In other news, Veach acknowledged that the Chiefs will begin working with All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a contract extension. He's entering the final year of an $80 million, four-year deal, and his salary cap hit is $28 million for this season.The 28-year-old Jones is coming off perhaps his best season. The four-time Pro Bowl pick matched a career high with 15 1/2 sacks in the regular season, then ended a maddeningly playoff oh-for by picking up his first two postseason sacks.“I think that's on the list of things to do,” Veach said. “We get into the offseason, and you know, you’re into combine meetings, and then you’re into free agency, and then you’re into the draft. And then after the draft, let the dust settle and start working on the future and things we can get accomplished in the spring.”Veach indicated that he would like to get an extension done before the Chiefs report to training camp in July.“We'll get to work and see what we can do,” he said.There isn't nearly the same time pressure to rework the deal of MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though that could be on the agenda soon. He just completed the first season of a 10-year, $450 million contract, but recent deals — including one signed by the Eagle's Jalen Hurts — already have pushed Mahomes to seventh in the league in average yearly salary.The benefits of working on Mahomes' contracts are twofold: The Chiefs want to keep him happy by paying him among the top tier of QBs, but they also can create some salary cap flexibility by altering the structure of the deal going forward.“We're a few years into a long deal,” Veach said, “but at the same time, we have great communication with Pat, so that'll be a situation where we work through all those things. There's no timing from our end because we're in constant communication.”<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;

🏈 Chiefs re-sign McKinnon, decline 5th year on Edwards-Helaire

Baseball Wednesday Oklahoma Wesleyan 5, Ottawa 2 Friends 10, Tabor 4 Oklahoma Wesleyan 10, Kansas Wesleyan 5

Thursday Schedule 11:00 Friends vs McPherson 3:00 Tabor vs Kansas Wesleyan 7:00 Ottawa vs Friends/McPherson loser Softball Wednesday Ottawa 7, York 3 Avila 3, Bethany 1 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2, Kansas Wesleyan 0 McPherson 3, Friends 1 (9-inn) Winners Bracket Ottawa 4, Avila 2 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2, McPherson 1 (13-inn) Losers Bracket Friends 9, Kansas Wesleyan 4 Bethany 4, York 2 Thursday Schedule 12:00 Ottawa vs Friends 12:00 McPherson vs Bethany 2:30 Avila vs Oklahoma Wesleyan 2:30 Ottawa/Friends winner vs McPherson/Bethany winner 5:00 Avila/Ok. Wesleyan loser vs Consolation bracket winner Friday Schedule 1:30 Championship game 4:00 2nd Championship game if necessary

All ticketing will be done through HomeTown Ticketing digitally, and can be purchased on the KCAC Tickets page. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD ON-SITE.

Single-Day Pricing (wristbands will be used for re-entry):

$6 - Faculty and Staff (With KCAC Member Institution ID)

Free – KCAC Students (with valid KCAC Institution student ID), Children 5 &amp; Under

Championship Pass Pricing (pass good for the full event):

$11 - Championship Senior (55 &amp; Up) Pass

$11 - Championship Faculty and Staff (With KCAC Member Institution ID) Pass

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683114278208.jpeg" alt="All games at the Great Bend Sports Complex" />
 <figcaption>All games at the Great Bend Sports Complex</figcaption>
 </figure>Baseball Wednesday Oklahoma Wesleyan 5, Ottawa 2 Friends 10, Tabor 4 Oklahoma Wesleyan 10, Kansas Wesleyan 5Thursday Schedule 11:00 Friends vs McPherson 3:00 Tabor vs Kansas Wesleyan 7:00 Ottawa vs Friends/McPherson loser Softball Wednesday Ottawa 7, York 3 Avila 3, Bethany 1 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2, Kansas Wesleyan 0 McPherson 3, Friends 1 (9-inn) Winners Bracket Ottawa 4, Avila 2 Oklahoma Wesleyan 2, McPherson 1 (13-inn) Losers Bracket Friends 9, Kansas Wesleyan 4 Bethany 4, York 2 Thursday Schedule 12:00 Ottawa vs Friends 12:00 McPherson vs Bethany 2:30 Avila vs Oklahoma Wesleyan 2:30 Ottawa/Friends winner vs McPherson/Bethany winner 5:00 Avila/Ok. Wesleyan loser vs Consolation bracket winner Friday Schedule 1:30 Championship game 4:00 2nd Championship game if necessaryAll ticketing will be done through HomeTown Ticketing digitally, and can be purchased on the KCAC Tickets page. NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD ON-SITE.Single-Day Pricing (wristbands will be used for re-entry):$12 - Adults$6 - Seniors (55 &amp; Up)$6 - Faculty and Staff (With KCAC Member Institution ID)$3 - Children 6 – 17Free – KCAC Students (with valid KCAC Institution student ID), Children 5 &amp; UnderChampionship Pass Pricing (pass good for the full event):$22 - Championship Adult Pass$11 - Championship Senior (55 &amp; Up) Pass$11 - Championship Faculty and Staff (With KCAC Member Institution ID) Pass<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;

⚾🥎  KCAC Baseball/Softball Tournament Scores and Schedule

LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– Guards Arterio Morris and Nicolas Timberlake have transferred to Kansas, KU men’s basketball coach Bill Self announced today. Both student-athletes will be immediately eligible for the 2023-24 season.

Morris, 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, comes to Kansas from Texas, where he was a freshman in 2022-23. The Dallas native came off the bench in all 38 games for the Longhorns, who won the Big 12 Tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament Midwest Regional final. Morris averaged 11.7 minutes and 4.6 points per game, and made 29 three-point field goals as a freshman. He recorded six games of 10 points or more, including a career-high 25 points on 9-of-11 shooting, 5-for-7 threes, in just 18 minutes versus Louisiana (Dec. 21).

Morris was a 2022 McDonald’s All-American while at Kimball High School in Dallas. A five-star recruit, Morris was ranked as the No. 15 prospect nationally by Rivals.com and No. 17 by 247Sports.com and ESPN100.

“Arterio was highly recruited coming out of high school and we watched him a ton his senior year at Kimball,” Self said. “When he entered the portal, we went right after him. Arterio is one of the most talented guards in the country who hasn’t scratched the surface of his potential. He can defend. He can slide. His explosiveness and versatility will be a great addition to our team.”

Timberlake, 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, from Braintree, Massachusetts, will be a super senior in 2023-24 after transferring to Kansas from Towson.

“Shooting was one of the things we needed to replace from last year’s team and with Nicolas we feel like we’ve done that,” Self said. “He’s a proven shooter. He shot 42 percent from three last year which ranked high nationally, while averaging 18 points a game, which shows his scoring ability. Being a four-year guy at Towson, Nicolas comes here with a lot of experience.”

A two-time All-Colonial Athletics Association (CAA) First Team selection in 2022 and 2023, Timberlake led Towson in scoring at 17.7 points per game in 2022-23, which ranked third in the CAA. He shot 45.5 percent from the field, including 41.6 percent from three-point range, which was second in the CAA and 13th nationally. Timberlake led the CAA with an 84.5 free throw percentage, had 12 games of 20-plus points and three 30-point performances, including a career-high 34 points against Charleston on Feb. 23. Additionally, Timberlake was named to the 2023 CAA All-Tournament Team after averaging 18.0 points in two tourney games.

The 2020 CAA Sixth Man of the Year, Timberlake started 90-of-122 games played at Towson, including every game for the last three seasons. He is the school’s all-time leader in three-point field goal made with 233 and three pointers attempted with 614. Timberlake comes to Kansas with career totals of 1,522 points (12.5 ppg), 470 rebounds (3.9 rpg), 193 assists (1.6) and 100 steals (2.5).

Prior to Towson, Timberlake played the 2017-18 season at Kimball Union Academy prep school in New Hampshire. He graduated from Braintree High School in 2017.

With the additions of Morris and Timberlake, Kansas now has six newcomers set to join the program for the 2023-24 season. The duo joins Marcus Adams Jr. (G, 6-8, 205, Torrance, California), Elmarko Jackson (G, 6-3, 185, Marlton, New Jersey, South Kent School [Conn.]), Chris Johnson (G, 6-4, 180, Fort Bend, Texas, Montverde Academy [Fla.]) and Jamari McDowell (G, 6-4, 180, Manvel, Texas, Manvel High School).

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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/2023/5/1683199855046.png" alt="KU Basketball - Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>KU Basketball - Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;– Guards Arterio Morris and Nicolas Timberlake have transferred to Kansas, KU men’s basketball coach Bill Self announced today. Both student-athletes will be immediately eligible for the 2023-24 season.Morris, 6-foot-3, 190 pounds, comes to Kansas from Texas, where he was a freshman in 2022-23. The Dallas native came off the bench in all 38 games for the Longhorns, who won the Big 12 Tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament Midwest Regional final. Morris averaged 11.7 minutes and 4.6 points per game, and made 29 three-point field goals as a freshman. He recorded six games of 10 points or more, including a career-high 25 points on 9-of-11 shooting, 5-for-7 threes, in just 18 minutes versus Louisiana (Dec. 21).Morris was a 2022 McDonald’s All-American while at Kimball High School in Dallas. A five-star recruit, Morris was ranked as the No. 15 prospect nationally by Rivals.com and No. 17 by 247Sports.com and ESPN100.“Arterio was highly recruited coming out of high school and we watched him a ton his senior year at Kimball,” Self said. “When he entered the portal, we went right after him. Arterio is one of the most talented guards in the country who hasn’t scratched the surface of his potential. He can defend. He can slide. His explosiveness and versatility will be a great addition to our team.”<figure>
 <img src="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Morris-graphic-819x1024.jpg" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>Timberlake, 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, from Braintree, Massachusetts, will be a super senior in 2023-24 after transferring to Kansas from Towson.“Shooting was one of the things we needed to replace from last year’s team and with Nicolas we feel like we’ve done that,” Self said. “He’s a proven shooter. He shot 42 percent from three last year which ranked high nationally, while averaging 18 points a game, which shows his scoring ability. Being a four-year guy at Towson, Nicolas comes here with a lot of experience.”A two-time All-Colonial Athletics Association (CAA) First Team selection in 2022 and 2023, Timberlake led Towson in scoring at 17.7 points per game in 2022-23, which ranked third in the CAA. He shot 45.5 percent from the field, including 41.6 percent from three-point range, which was second in the CAA and 13th nationally. Timberlake led the CAA with an 84.5 free throw percentage, had 12 games of 20-plus points and three 30-point performances, including a career-high 34 points against Charleston on Feb. 23. Additionally, Timberlake was named to the 2023 CAA All-Tournament Team after averaging 18.0 points in two tourney games.The 2020 CAA Sixth Man of the Year, Timberlake started 90-of-122 games played at Towson, including every game for the last three seasons. He is the school’s all-time leader in three-point field goal made with 233 and three pointers attempted with 614. Timberlake comes to Kansas with career totals of 1,522 points (12.5 ppg), 470 rebounds (3.9 rpg), 193 assists (1.6) and 100 steals (2.5).Prior to Towson, Timberlake played the 2017-18 season at Kimball Union Academy prep school in New Hampshire. He graduated from Braintree High School in 2017.<figure>
 <img src="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Timberlake-graphic.jpg" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>With the additions of Morris and Timberlake, Kansas now has six newcomers set to join the program for the 2023-24 season. The duo joins Marcus Adams Jr. (G, 6-8, 205, Torrance, California), Elmarko Jackson (G, 6-3, 185, Marlton, New Jersey, South Kent School [Conn.]), Chris Johnson (G, 6-4, 180, Fort Bend, Texas, Montverde Academy [Fla.]) and Jamari McDowell (G, 6-4, 180, Manvel, Texas, Manvel High School).<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;

🏀 MBB: Kansas adds two transfers - Morris and Timberlake

<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=40e9ecb116&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=045a77b5a1&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=ad53b93413&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Gallery</a>

LAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;Freshman Lizzy Ludwig tossed a gem Wednesday night, throwing her second complete game of the season to lift Kansas to a 3-1 victory over No. 18 Wichita State at Arrocha Ballpark.

Ludwig allowed just one run on four hits, while striking out a pair to help the Jayhawks improve to 23-24 on the season heading into a pivotal three-game home series against Iowa State. The Shockers suffered just their ninth loss of the season and fell to 43-9.

“This was huge for us. It was the start of what we’ve talked about all week long,” said Head Coach Jennifer McFalls. “We wanted to focus on this game tonight and not get ahead of ourselves. We took care of business tonight and now we have three more we have to take care of this weekend. They know what’s on the line. They’re very locked in, and that’s what I love the most about them. They’re ready to compete, had great energy today and were focused. We have to bring that this weekend, and I think if we do that, we’ll be in good shape.”

Ludwig got her fourth start of the season in the circle. She was dominant throughout against one of the top hitting teams in the country. In the seventh inning, she pitched around a leadoff walk and got a fly out to left to end the game and improve to 4-7 on the season.

Both pitchers opened the game throwing three scoreless innings. However, Kansas was able to break the scoreless tie in the bottom of the fourth. The scoring started when sophomore designated player Olivia Bruno drew a walk. McFalls brought in junior Angela Price to pinch run, and she stole second in the next at-bat.

With a runner in scoring position, senior third baseman Ashlyn Anderson singled through the left side and advanced to second to put another runner in scoring position. Freshman second baseman Hailey Cripe followed suit, singling up the middle to score the second run of the game and give Kansas a 2-0 lead heading to the fifth.

After a scoreless half inning from Ludwig, the Jayhawks added another run to their tally in the bottom of the fifth. Senior shortstop Haleigh Harper garnered her second single of the game and made her way to third, setting up a potential sacrifice fly. Senior right fielder Peyton Renzi answered and hit the sacrifice fly to left, giving Kansas a 3-0 lead.

The Shockers were finally able to get on the board in the top of the sixth. After opening the frame with a single, WSU drew a walk, putting runners on first and second. Wichita State singled to right to cut it to 3-1. With runners on the corners, Anderson made a great running play to end the inning and keep the lead at two. The Jayhawks still held a 3-1 lead as they went to the bottom half of the sixth.

The Kansas defense held strong in the top of the seventh to earn the win.

Cripe finished the night going 2-for-3 with one RBI at the dish and Harper finished a perfect 2-for-2 with one RBI.

Win: Lizzy Ludwig (4-7) Final line: 7.0 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 2 SO Loss: Lauren Howell (18-3) Final line: 4.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 3 SO

Kansas will host Big 12 foe Iowa State this weekend, May 5-7, at Arrocha Ballpark. All three games will be streamed via Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Fans can also listen to the live action on the Jayhawk Radio Network.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683199432844.jpeg" alt="KU defeats Wichita State. Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>KU defeats Wichita State. Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=40e9ecb116&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Box Score</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=045a77b5a1&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Season Stats</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=ad53b93413&amp;e=33e05464a3" target="_blank">Gallery</a>LAWRENCE, Kan. —&nbsp;Freshman Lizzy Ludwig tossed a gem Wednesday night, throwing her second complete game of the season to lift Kansas to a 3-1 victory over No. 18 Wichita State at Arrocha Ballpark.Ludwig allowed just one run on four hits, while striking out a pair to help the Jayhawks improve to 23-24 on the season heading into a pivotal three-game home series against Iowa State. The Shockers suffered just their ninth loss of the season and fell to 43-9.“This was huge for us. It was the start of what we’ve talked about all week long,” said Head Coach Jennifer McFalls. “We wanted to focus on this game tonight and not get ahead of ourselves. We took care of business tonight and now we have three more we have to take care of this weekend. They know what’s on the line. They’re very locked in, and that’s what I love the most about them. They’re ready to compete, had great energy today and were focused. We have to bring that this weekend, and I think if we do that, we’ll be in good shape.”Ludwig got her fourth start of the season in the circle. She was dominant throughout against one of the top hitting teams in the country. In the seventh inning, she pitched around a leadoff walk and got a fly out to left to end the game and improve to 4-7 on the season.Both pitchers opened the game throwing three scoreless innings. However, Kansas was able to break the scoreless tie in the bottom of the fourth. The scoring started when sophomore designated player Olivia Bruno drew a walk. McFalls brought in junior Angela Price to pinch run, and she stole second in the next at-bat.With a runner in scoring position, senior third baseman Ashlyn Anderson singled through the left side and advanced to second to put another runner in scoring position. Freshman second baseman Hailey Cripe followed suit, singling up the middle to score the second run of the game and give Kansas a 2-0 lead heading to the fifth.After a scoreless half inning from Ludwig, the Jayhawks added another run to their tally in the bottom of the fifth. Senior shortstop Haleigh Harper garnered her second single of the game and made her way to third, setting up a potential sacrifice fly. Senior right fielder Peyton Renzi answered and hit the sacrifice fly to left, giving Kansas a 3-0 lead.The Shockers were finally able to get on the board in the top of the sixth. After opening the frame with a single, WSU drew a walk, putting runners on first and second. Wichita State singled to right to cut it to 3-1. With runners on the corners, Anderson made a great running play to end the inning and keep the lead at two. The Jayhawks still held a 3-1 lead as they went to the bottom half of the sixth.The Kansas defense held strong in the top of the seventh to earn the win.Cripe finished the night going 2-for-3 with one RBI at the dish and Harper finished a perfect 2-for-2 with one RBI.PITCHERS OF RECORDWin: Lizzy Ludwig (4-7) Final line: 7.0 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 2 SO Loss: Lauren Howell (18-3) Final line: 4.0 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 3 SONOTES<ul>
 <li>The Jayhawks are 18-5 when scoring first in the game,</li><li>Kansas is 8-4 when scoring three runs or more.</li><li>KU is 3-3 when it comes to 2-run victories.</li><li>This is the Jayhawks fifth time this season holding its opponent to one run in a game.</li><li>In her 26th&nbsp;appearance this season with her third start,&nbsp;Lizzy Ludwig improves her ERA to&nbsp; 2.25, ranking 11th&nbsp;in the Big 12 and earns her fourth win pitching a complete game.</li><li>Haley Cripe had two hits and an RBI vs. Wichita State. This is Cripe’s second multi-hit game on the season.</li><li>Haleigh Harper went 2-for-2, with a run vs. Wichita State. She has five multi-hit games on the season, which ties for the third best on the team.</li><li>Ashlyn Anderson went 1-for-3 with an RBI, earning her 18th&nbsp;RBI on the season and her 80th&nbsp;RBI in her career. She has 30 hits the season and has 124 hits in her career.</li><li>In her fourth start of the season, Peyton Renzi earns her fourth RBI of the season.</li>
 </ul>UP NEXTKansas will host Big 12 foe Iowa State this weekend, May 5-7, at Arrocha Ballpark. All three games will be streamed via Big 12 Now on ESPN+. Fans can also listen to the live action on the Jayhawk Radio Network.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;&nbsp;

🥎 Kansas freshman Ludwig tosses gem to beat Wichita State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0. Greinke won for the first time in 14 starts. He allowed just three singles in five innings and striking out three. He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016. The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson out of the game with four runs in the seventh.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Mike Trout and Jake Lamb hit solo homers in the 9th inning, Shohei Ohtani tied a career-high with 13 strikeouts and the Los Angeles Angels rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 6-4. Los Angeles has won six of its last eight games, while the Cardinals have lost five in a row. Ohtani didn’t get the decision, but did become the second player in MLB history to record 500 career strikeouts and hit at least 100 home runs, joining Babe Ruth. Brandon Drury also homered for the Angels. Ryan Tepera (2-1) earned the win and Carlos Estevez picked up his seventh save of the season. Dylan Carlson and Nolan Gorman homered for St. Louis, which at 10-21 is off to its worst start since the 1973 squad opened the season 8-23.

DENVER (AP) — Kyle Freeland pitched five scoreless innings, Kris Bryant and Charlie Blackmon homered and the Colorado Rockies beat the Milwaukee Brewers 7-1 on Wednesday night for their season-best third straight win. Alan Trejo hit a three-run double and Elías Díaz had an RBI single for Colorado, which improved to 9-3 in its last 12 games against the Brewers. Already ahead 4-0, the Rockies added to their lead in the seventh when Jurickson Profar doubled off Tyson Miller and Bryant launched his fourth homer. Blackmon connected for a solo shot off Jake Cousins in the eighth.

DETROIT (AP) — New York Mets ace Max Scherzer struggled in his return from a suspension Wednesday night, allowing six runs on eight hits in 3 1/3 innings against the Detroit Tigers during the second game of a doubleheader. Scherzer was suspended for 10 games by Major League Baseball on April 20 after getting ejected for having a foreign substance on his pitching hand during his April 19 start against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The three-time Cy Young Award winner was facing the Tigers for the third time since leaving the team after the 2014 season. He gave up home runs to Eric Haase and Matt Vierling before getting lifted in the fourth. The right-hander received a drama-free check for sticky substances by first base umpire Adam Beck after the second inning.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Max Muncy hit a game-ending grand slam and the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied from an early five-run deficit to beat the Philadelphia Phillies 10-6, extending their winning streak to a season-high six games. Bryce Harper doubled to start a four-run third inning and reached base five times in his second game of the season for the Phillies, who lost their fourth straight. Los Angeles swept the three-game series, outscoring the defending NL champions 36-11 and reaching double digits in every game. Pinch-hitter Austin Barnes gave the Dodgers a 6-5 lead with a two-run single in the eighth, but Philadelphia tied it in the ninth on Bryson Stott's RBI single. Muncy connected off Craig Kimbrel for his major league-leading 12th home run.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — Jackson Mahomes, the brother of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, was briefly jailed on aggravated sexual battery charges over an alleged altercation at a restaurant in late February. Online court records show that 22-year-old Jackson Mahomes was charged Tuesday with three counts of aggravated sexual battery and one count of battery. He was released on Wednesday after posting $100,000 bond. During a brief virtual court appearance, a judge set another court date for May 11. His lawyer said in a statement that the court prohibited him and his client from commenting. The investigation stems from accusations against Jackson Mahomes regarding an alleged Feb. 25 incident at a restaurant in the Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, Kansas.

BOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored 25 points and the Boston Celtics rolled past the Philadelphia 76ers 121-87, spoiling the return of reigning league MVP Joel Embiid. The Celtics tied the series at one game apiece as the Eastern Conference semifinals series shifts to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Friday. Malcolm Brogdon added 23 points, connecting on six of Boston’s 20 3-pointers. Derrick White and Marcus Smart added 15 points apiece. Jayson Tatum played most of the game in foul trouble and was held to seven points. Boston ratcheted up its defense and limited a 76ers team that hit 17 3-pointers in its Game 1 win to just 6 of 30 from beyond the arc on Wednesday.

BOSTON (AP) — Joel Embiid finally said that winning the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award has been a dream ever since he belatedly started playing basketball. Embiid says the award validates all the work that he's put into learning the sport after belatedly taking it up at the age of 15. Embiid missed Game 1 of Philadelphia’s second-round series against Boston and is officially listed as doubtful with a sprained knee for Game 2. Embiid said “it’s a possibility” he would play on Wednesday night. He did some light shooting with the team in the morning.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Ivan Barbashev scored two goals and the Golden Knights overcame Leon Draisaitl’s four goals to beat the Edmonton Oilers 6-4 in Game 1 of the second-round series. It was the second night in a row a team had won despite allowing an opposing player to score four goals. In addition to Barbashev, the Knights also received goals from Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, Mark Stone and Jack Eichel. Eichel and Stone also each had an assist. Zach Whitecloud had two assists. Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, Zach Lyman and Connor McDavid each had two assists for the Oilers.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Hurricanes got goals from Brett Pesce and Seth Jarvis alongside a suffocating defensive performance in the opening period to jump quickly on the New Jersey Devils for a 5-1 win Wednesday night to open their second-round playoff series. Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Brady Skeji and Jesper Fast added scores for the Hurricanes. Carolina allowed just one shot on goal in the opening period. Frederik Andersen finished with 18 saves for Carolina. Nathan Bastian scored the Devils' lone goal. Devils netminder Akira Schmid lasted just a few minutes into the second period after giving up three goals for New Jersey.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The death of four horses at Churchill Downs has overshadowed preparations for the Kentucky Derby. Two horses trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. collapsed on the track and died over the past week. Two others also died as either a result of racing or training, including Derby entrant Wild On Ice. Joseph is set to saddle Lord Miles in the first jewel of the Triple Crown on Saturday. But he has said he’s unsure of plans after the two deaths from his barn. Churchill Downs, in a statement, expressed concern over the deaths and said officials would press for answers.

STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi State basketball coach Chris Jans has signed a contract extension through the 2026-27 season. The school announced the move Wednesday. It comes after Jans led the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament in his first season. That marked only the program’s second appearance since 2009, the other coming in 2019. Mississippi State spent four weeks in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll, peaking at No. 15 shortly before Christmas. The Bulldogs won 21 games for their best win total since winning 23 games in 2019. They fell to Pittsburgh in the NCAA First Four.

NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PLAYOFFS

Final Boston 121 Philadelphia 87, Series tied 1-1

Final Carolina 5 New Jersey 1, Carolina leads 1-0

Final Vegas 6 Edmonton 4, Vegas leads 1-0

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681297613631.jpeg" alt="Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, May 4th, 2023" />
 <figcaption>Sports Headlines for Thursday Morning, May 4th, 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0. Greinke won for the first time in 14 starts. He allowed just three singles in five innings and striking out three. He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016. The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson out of the game with four runs in the seventh.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Mike Trout and Jake Lamb hit solo homers in the 9th inning, Shohei Ohtani tied a career-high with 13 strikeouts and the Los Angeles Angels rallied to beat the St. Louis Cardinals 6-4. Los Angeles has won six of its last eight games, while the Cardinals have lost five in a row. Ohtani didn’t get the decision, but did become the second player in MLB history to record 500 career strikeouts and hit at least 100 home runs, joining Babe Ruth. Brandon Drury also homered for the Angels. Ryan Tepera (2-1) earned the win and Carlos Estevez picked up his seventh save of the season. Dylan Carlson and Nolan Gorman homered for St. Louis, which at 10-21 is off to its worst start since the 1973 squad opened the season 8-23.DENVER (AP) — Kyle Freeland pitched five scoreless innings, Kris Bryant and Charlie Blackmon homered and the Colorado Rockies beat the Milwaukee Brewers 7-1 on Wednesday night for their season-best third straight win. Alan Trejo hit a three-run double and Elías Díaz had an RBI single for Colorado, which improved to 9-3 in its last 12 games against the Brewers. Already ahead 4-0, the Rockies added to their lead in the seventh when Jurickson Profar doubled off Tyson Miller and Bryant launched his fourth homer. Blackmon connected for a solo shot off Jake Cousins in the eighth.DETROIT (AP) — New York Mets ace Max Scherzer struggled in his return from a suspension Wednesday night, allowing six runs on eight hits in 3 1/3 innings against the Detroit Tigers during the second game of a doubleheader. Scherzer was suspended for 10 games by Major League Baseball on April 20 after getting ejected for having a foreign substance on his pitching hand during his April 19 start against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The three-time Cy Young Award winner was facing the Tigers for the third time since leaving the team after the 2014 season. He gave up home runs to Eric Haase and Matt Vierling before getting lifted in the fourth. The right-hander received a drama-free check for sticky substances by first base umpire Adam Beck after the second inning.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Max Muncy hit a game-ending grand slam and the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied from an early five-run deficit to beat the Philadelphia Phillies 10-6, extending their winning streak to a season-high six games. Bryce Harper doubled to start a four-run third inning and reached base five times in his second game of the season for the Phillies, who lost their fourth straight. Los Angeles swept the three-game series, outscoring the defending NL champions 36-11 and reaching double digits in every game. Pinch-hitter Austin Barnes gave the Dodgers a 6-5 lead with a two-run single in the eighth, but Philadelphia tied it in the ninth on Bryson Stott's RBI single. Muncy connected off Craig Kimbrel for his major league-leading 12th home run.OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — Jackson Mahomes, the brother of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, was briefly jailed on aggravated sexual battery charges over an alleged altercation at a restaurant in late February. Online court records show that 22-year-old Jackson Mahomes was charged Tuesday with three counts of aggravated sexual battery and one count of battery. He was released on Wednesday after posting $100,000 bond. During a brief virtual court appearance, a judge set another court date for May 11. His lawyer said in a statement that the court prohibited him and his client from commenting. The investigation stems from accusations against Jackson Mahomes regarding an alleged Feb. 25 incident at a restaurant in the Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, Kansas.BOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored 25 points and the Boston Celtics rolled past the Philadelphia 76ers 121-87, spoiling the return of reigning league MVP Joel Embiid. The Celtics tied the series at one game apiece as the Eastern Conference semifinals series shifts to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Friday. Malcolm Brogdon added 23 points, connecting on six of Boston’s 20 3-pointers. Derrick White and Marcus Smart added 15 points apiece. Jayson Tatum played most of the game in foul trouble and was held to seven points. Boston ratcheted up its defense and limited a 76ers team that hit 17 3-pointers in its Game 1 win to just 6 of 30 from beyond the arc on Wednesday.BOSTON (AP) — Joel Embiid finally said that winning the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award has been a dream ever since he belatedly started playing basketball. Embiid says the award validates all the work that he's put into learning the sport after belatedly taking it up at the age of 15. Embiid missed Game 1 of Philadelphia’s second-round series against Boston and is officially listed as doubtful with a sprained knee for Game 2. Embiid said “it’s a possibility” he would play on Wednesday night. He did some light shooting with the team in the morning.LAS VEGAS (AP) — Ivan Barbashev scored two goals and the Golden Knights overcame Leon Draisaitl’s four goals to beat the Edmonton Oilers 6-4 in Game 1 of the second-round series. It was the second night in a row a team had won despite allowing an opposing player to score four goals. In addition to Barbashev, the Knights also received goals from Chandler Stephenson, Michael Amadio, Mark Stone and Jack Eichel. Eichel and Stone also each had an assist. Zach Whitecloud had two assists. Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, Zach Lyman and Connor McDavid each had two assists for the Oilers.RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Hurricanes got goals from Brett Pesce and Seth Jarvis alongside a suffocating defensive performance in the opening period to jump quickly on the New Jersey Devils for a 5-1 win Wednesday night to open their second-round playoff series. Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Brady Skeji and Jesper Fast added scores for the Hurricanes. Carolina allowed just one shot on goal in the opening period. Frederik Andersen finished with 18 saves for Carolina. Nathan Bastian scored the Devils' lone goal. Devils netminder Akira Schmid lasted just a few minutes into the second period after giving up three goals for New Jersey.LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The death of four horses at Churchill Downs has overshadowed preparations for the Kentucky Derby. Two horses trained by Saffie Joseph Jr. collapsed on the track and died over the past week. Two others also died as either a result of racing or training, including Derby entrant Wild On Ice. Joseph is set to saddle Lord Miles in the first jewel of the Triple Crown on Saturday. But he has said he’s unsure of plans after the two deaths from his barn. Churchill Downs, in a statement, expressed concern over the deaths and said officials would press for answers.STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi State basketball coach Chris Jans has signed a contract extension through the 2026-27 season. The school announced the move Wednesday. It comes after Jans led the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament in his first season. That marked only the program’s second appearance since 2009, the other coming in 2019. Mississippi State spent four weeks in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll, peaking at No. 15 shortly before Christmas. The Bulldogs won 21 games for their best win total since winning 23 games in 2019. They fell to Pittsburgh in the NCAA First Four.WEDNESDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal Detroit 6 N.Y. Mets 5Final San Francisco 4 Houston 2Final Arizona 12 Texas 7Final Detroit 8 N.Y. Mets 1Final Tampa Bay 8 Pittsburgh 1Final L.A. Angels 6 St. Louis 4AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Kansas City 6 Baltimore 0Final N.Y. Yankees 4 Cleveland 3Final Chicago White Sox 6 Minnesota 4Final Boston 8 Toronto 3Final Seattle 7 Oakland 2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal San Diego 7 Cincinnati 1Final L.A. Dodgers 10 Philadelphia 6Final Atlanta 14 Miami 6Final Washington 2 Chicago Cubs 1Final Colorado 7 Milwaukee 1NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PLAYOFFSFinal Boston 121 Philadelphia 87, Series tied 1-1NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE PLAYOFFSFinal Carolina 5 New Jersey 1, Carolina leads 1-0Final Vegas 6 Edmonton 4, Vegas leads 1-0<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;

📢📰 Sports Headlines for Thursday

WICHITA, Kan. – Anthony Prato hit a two-out single in the seventh inning to drive in two runs to beat the Northwest Arkansas Naturals 3-1 on Wednesday night. The Wind Surge snap a four game losing streak and even the series at one.

Aaron Rozek struck out two in five and two thirds innings, allowed one run in his longest start for the Wind Surge. Tyler Beck worked two and a third innings of relief for his team leading third win of the season.

Brooks Lee led Wichita with three hits in four at bats and scored a run. Anthony Prato had a pair of hits with the key two run single in the seventh inning.

The Naturals scored first on an RBI sac fly from Luca Tresh in the first inning. Yoyner Fajardo hit an RBI single, for Wichita to tie the game in the second inning.

The Surge took the lead in the seventh after Prato singled. Northwest Arkansas threatened in the bottom of the ninth loading the bases. Jesion Guzman grounded into a game ending double play on a great defensive play from Prato. It was a season high third double play of the game by Wichita.

Alex Scherff earned his second save and the losing pitcher was Christian Chamberlain.

NOTES – Yoyner Fajardo extended his hit streak to seven games. The one run allowed is the fewest by the Wind Surge since the home opener on April 11th.

UPCOMING – The Wind Surge and Naturals continue the series on Thursday evening at 7:05. The Surge will start RH Chad Donato against RH Alec Marsh.

BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 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>

NEXT HOME GAME: Tuesday, May 16 vs Arkansas Travelers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683197876003.jpeg" alt="Wind Surge win 3-1 vs Arkansas Naturals" />
 <figcaption>Wind Surge win 3-1 vs Arkansas Naturals</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. – Anthony Prato hit a two-out single in the seventh inning to drive in two runs to beat the Northwest Arkansas Naturals 3-1 on Wednesday night. The Wind Surge snap a four game losing streak and even the series at one.Aaron Rozek struck out two in five and two thirds innings, allowed one run in his longest start for the Wind Surge. Tyler Beck worked two and a third innings of relief for his team leading third win of the season.Brooks Lee led Wichita with three hits in four at bats and scored a run. Anthony Prato had a pair of hits with the key two run single in the seventh inning.The Naturals scored first on an RBI sac fly from Luca Tresh in the first inning. Yoyner Fajardo hit an RBI single, for Wichita to tie the game in the second inning.The Surge took the lead in the seventh after Prato singled. Northwest Arkansas threatened in the bottom of the ninth loading the bases. Jesion Guzman grounded into a game ending double play on a great defensive play from Prato. It was a season high third double play of the game by Wichita.Alex Scherff earned his second save and the losing pitcher was Christian Chamberlain.NOTES – Yoyner Fajardo extended his hit streak to seven games. The one run allowed is the fewest by the Wind Surge since the home opener on April 11th.UPCOMING – The Wind Surge and Naturals continue the series on Thursday evening at 7:05. The Surge will start RH Chad Donato against RH Alec Marsh.BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 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>NEXT HOME GAME: Tuesday, May 16 vs Arkansas Travelers.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;&nbsp;

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge use defense to help get win

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0 on Wednesday night.

Greinke (1-4) won for the first time in 14 starts, allowing just three singles in five innings and striking out three.

“Everything worked good,” Greinke said. “Defense was great, hitting was great, pitching was good. Glad to be getting some outs, not pitching like I did the last couple of times.”

He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016.

“Just gotta pitch better if you want to pitch more,” Greinke said.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said the decision to remove Greinke when they did was the result of a few factors.

“It’s what we had available in the bullpen tonight," he said, "what we thought about how we matched up the rest of the game, as well as being in the middle of a 16-game stretch and trying to manage innings.”

The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium.

“It was good to double our win total at home,” Pasquantino said. “Now we just go to tomorrow and try to have good at-bats again.”

Pasquantino homered into the right-field bullpen to give Kansas City a fourth-inning lead in a game that lasted just 1 hour, 59 minutes. He doubled in another run in the sixth to put the Royals up 2-0.

“He believes in himself,” Quatraro said. “He doesn’t care who’s pitching for the other team. Secondly, he controls the zone. And the third part is amazing: He hits all pitches — fastballs up, fastballs down — which is unusual for somebody to be able to cover as much as he does.”

Pasquantino said he simply tries to lock himself in every night.

“Had a game plan against their pitchers and tried to be successful," he said. "And results-wise, it was a successful night.”

The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson (4-1) out with four runs in the seventh – all with two out – highlighted by Pasquantino’s second RBI double.

Gibson allowed six runs and 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings, with no walks or strikeouts — the only start of his career in which he had none in either category.

“I thought he was really good into that seventh inning,” Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said. “We were down a couple, he gets an out and then kind of a squibber through the infield and a sac fly, we’re down 3-0.”

Anthony Santander had a pair of singles for the Orioles, who were shut out for the first time since Oct. 1 against the Yankees.

“Bottom line is we didn’t score,” Hyde said. “Tough time offensively tonight.”

LHP Kris Bubic, who will undergo Tommy John surgery, was transferred to the 60-day IL.

Baltimore designated RHP Joey Krehbiel for assignment and acquired C Luis Torrens from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. ... Royals RHP Jose Cuas was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and LHP Austin Cox was selected from Omaha.

RHP Grayson Rodriguez (1-0, 4.07 ERA) will face RHP Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.11) in the rubber game Thursday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683020836767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0 on Wednesday night.Greinke (1-4) won for the first time in 14 starts, allowing just three singles in five innings and striking out three.“Everything worked good,” Greinke said. “Defense was great, hitting was great, pitching was good. Glad to be getting some outs, not pitching like I did the last couple of times.”He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016.“Just gotta pitch better if you want to pitch more,” Greinke said.Royals manager Matt Quatraro said the decision to remove Greinke when they did was the result of a few factors.“It’s what we had available in the bullpen tonight," he said, "what we thought about how we matched up the rest of the game, as well as being in the middle of a 16-game stretch and trying to manage innings.”The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium.“It was good to double our win total at home,” Pasquantino said. “Now we just go to tomorrow and try to have good at-bats again.”Pasquantino homered into the right-field bullpen to give Kansas City a fourth-inning lead in a game that lasted just 1 hour, 59 minutes. He doubled in another run in the sixth to put the Royals up 2-0.“He believes in himself,” Quatraro said. “He doesn’t care who’s pitching for the other team. Secondly, he controls the zone. And the third part is amazing: He hits all pitches — fastballs up, fastballs down — which is unusual for somebody to be able to cover as much as he does.”Pasquantino said he simply tries to lock himself in every night.“Had a game plan against their pitchers and tried to be successful," he said. "And results-wise, it was a successful night.”The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson (4-1) out with four runs in the seventh – all with two out – highlighted by Pasquantino’s second RBI double.Gibson allowed six runs and 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings, with no walks or strikeouts — the only start of his career in which he had none in either category.“I thought he was really good into that seventh inning,” Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said. “We were down a couple, he gets an out and then kind of a squibber through the infield and a sac fly, we’re down 3-0.”Anthony Santander had a pair of singles for the Orioles, who were shut out for the first time since Oct. 1 against the Yankees.“Bottom line is we didn’t score,” Hyde said. “Tough time offensively tonight.”TRAINER’S ROOMLHP Kris Bubic, who will undergo Tommy John surgery, was transferred to the 60-day IL.TRANSACTIONSBaltimore designated RHP Joey Krehbiel for assignment and acquired C Luis Torrens from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. ... Royals RHP Jose Cuas was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and LHP Austin Cox was selected from Omaha.UP NEXTRHP Grayson Rodriguez (1-0, 4.07 ERA) will face RHP Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.11) in the rubber game Thursday.&nbsp;

⚾️ Pasquantino HRs, Greinke wins 1st as Royals top Orioles 6-0

WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;— Wichita State head coach Paul Mills continues to work his magic in the transfer portal, recently getting a commitment from Missouri forward, Ronnie DeGray III.

The 6-foot-6 junior is originally from Parker, Colorado, and started his collegiate career at the University of Massachusetts. He started 14 of the 15 games he played in for the Minuteman, averaging nearly 9 points per game during the 2020-21 season.

DeGray III then transferred to Mizzou and played two seasons for the Tigers. During his time in Columbia, DeGray III 50 games, averaging 6.2 points and 3.6 rebounds.&nbsp;

<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683169641581.jpeg" alt="Hunter Dyke/Missouri Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Hunter Dyke/Missouri Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;— Wichita State head coach Paul Mills continues to work his magic in the transfer portal, recently getting a commitment from Missouri forward, Ronnie DeGray III.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Let’s SHOCK the nation!🌾 #316#committed <a href="https://t.co/RGoXH1qQCt">pic.twitter.com/RGoXH1qQCt</a>&mdash; Ronnie ”RD3” DeGray III❄️ (@Ronnie_DeGray23) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ronnie_DeGray23/status/1653889175521751040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 6-foot-6 junior is originally from Parker, Colorado, and started his collegiate career at the University of Massachusetts. He started 14 of the 15 games he played in for the Minuteman, averaging nearly 9 points per game during the 2020-21 season.DeGray III then transferred to Mizzou and played two seasons for the Tigers. During his time in Columbia, DeGray III 50 games, averaging 6.2 points and 3.6 rebounds.&nbsp;<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 MBB: Shockers land Mizzou transfer

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Prairie Dunes Country Club continues to draw high praise from across the country, as the course was named one of the <a href="https://www.golfdigest.com/story/americas-100-greatest-golf-courses-ranking">top 100 by the Golf Digest on Tuesday</a>.

Prairie Dunes came in at No. 23, two spots higher than the course was ranked in 2022.

According to the voters, "Prairie Dunes was the top nine-hole course in America for 20 years. By the time the club found funds to expand it to 18, original architect Perry Maxwell had passed away, but his son Press was able to add nine more holes seamlessly in the 1950s, putting three on the front nine and six on the back. He also replicated his father’s great greens, which seem to break in three different directions. Prairie Dunes reflects all that is common in rural Kansas: sand dunes, prairie grasses, yucca plants, cottonwoods and constant wind."

The course has been ranked the No. 1 golf course in the state since 1985, and has been in the top 5 every year since 1977.&nbsp;

The GolfDigest crew ranks Prairie Dunes 4.8 stars out of 5 total possible.

Prairie Dunes most recently hosted the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4f888d7f-4509-43f3-90c8-f9a5f2b7bf3d">Big 12 Men's Golf Championship</a>&nbsp;April 24-26.&nbsp;

For more information regarding Prairie Dunes, visit <a href="https://www.prairiedunes.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656759192099.jpeg" alt="Prairie Dunes Country Club" />
 <figcaption>Prairie Dunes Country Club</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Prairie Dunes Country Club continues to draw high praise from across the country, as the course was named one of the <a href="https://www.golfdigest.com/story/americas-100-greatest-golf-courses-ranking">top 100 by the Golf Digest on Tuesday</a>.Prairie Dunes came in at No. 23, two spots higher than the course was ranked in 2022.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683168330493.jpeg" alt="Andy Johnson/The Fried Egg" />
 <figcaption>Andy Johnson/The Fried Egg</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the voters, "Prairie Dunes was the top nine-hole course in America for 20 years. By the time the club found funds to expand it to 18, original architect Perry Maxwell had passed away, but his son Press was able to add nine more holes seamlessly in the 1950s, putting three on the front nine and six on the back. He also replicated his father’s great greens, which seem to break in three different directions. Prairie Dunes reflects all that is common in rural Kansas: sand dunes, prairie grasses, yucca plants, cottonwoods and constant wind."The course has been ranked the No. 1 golf course in the state since 1985, and has been in the top 5 every year since 1977.&nbsp;The GolfDigest crew ranks Prairie Dunes 4.8 stars out of 5 total possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683168517560.jpeg" alt="Andy Johnson/The Fried Egg" />
 <figcaption>Andy Johnson/The Fried Egg</figcaption>
 </figure>Prairie Dunes most recently hosted the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4f888d7f-4509-43f3-90c8-f9a5f2b7bf3d">Big 12 Men's Golf Championship</a>&nbsp;April 24-26.&nbsp;For more information regarding Prairie Dunes, visit <a href="https://www.prairiedunes.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;<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;&nbsp;

⛳ Prairie Dunes named one of America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses

Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;No. 18 Wichita State saw its seven-game win streak come to an end in a 3-1 loss at Kansas Wednesday night. Wichita State (43-9) managed only four hits in the final game of the regular season. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-mills/7237">Lauren Mills</a>&nbsp;had two of the four hits and the lone RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;had one hit apiece. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;(18-3) cruised through the first 3.0 innings, but ran into trouble in the fourth. She finished the game, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;threw the final 2.0 innings out of the bullpen and held the Jayhawks to just one hit. The first runs didn't come until the bottom of the fourth when Kansas scratched two across on back-to-back RBI singles to grab a 2-0 lead. Kansas then made it 3-0 in the fifth on a sac fly. Wichita State scored its lone run in the top of the sixth on Mills' two-out, RBI single through the right side. Up Next No. 18 Wichita State has the weekend off before traveling to Tampa for the 2023 American Athletic Conference Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683167470372.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;No. 18 Wichita State saw its seven-game win streak come to an end in a 3-1 loss at Kansas Wednesday night. Wichita State (43-9) managed only four hits in the final game of the regular season. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-mills/7237">Lauren Mills</a>&nbsp;had two of the four hits and the lone RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;had one hit apiece. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;(18-3) cruised through the first 3.0 innings, but ran into trouble in the fourth. She finished the game, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;threw the final 2.0 innings out of the bullpen and held the Jayhawks to just one hit. The first runs didn't come until the bottom of the fourth when Kansas scratched two across on back-to-back RBI singles to grab a 2-0 lead. Kansas then made it 3-0 in the fifth on a sac fly. Wichita State scored its lone run in the top of the sixth on Mills' two-out, RBI single through the right side. Up Next No. 18 Wichita State has the weekend off before traveling to Tampa for the 2023 American Athletic Conference Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 No. 18 Wichita State drops regular season finale at Kansas

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Hutchinson High School senior Garrett Robertson has been named to the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Game roster, the KBCA announced on Wednesday.

The annual game will take place on Saturday, June 24 at Mabee Arena on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina. The same arena that Robertson will call home in the fall.

Twenty-four girls from across the state will compete in the first of two games at 6 p.m. The twenty-four boys will compete in the second game around 7:30 p.m.

Admission will be $6 for adults and $4 for students in K-12.

Robertson helped lead the Salthawks to a 4th place finish in the class 5A state tournament in Emporia in March. Robertson finished his high school career with over 900 points scored.

The KBCA game will be the second all-star game that Robertson will have played in since the end of his senior campaign.&nbsp; 

BOYS BLUE SQUAD Grant Stubblefield, BV Northwest; Harrison Kisling, Olathe West; Tyson Ruud, Basehor-Linwood; Garrett Robertson, Hutchinson; Carson Bennett, Hugoton; Ryle Riddlesperger, Hugoton; Eli Sawyers, Southeast of Saline; Matthew Garber, Sabetha; Britton Dutton, Ellinwood; Keller Hurla, St. Marys; Jordy Dolloff, Wichita Classical; Jaxson Brandl, Greeley County. Head coach–Josh Gooch, Greeley County. Assistants–Aaron Ihm, BV Northwest; Trey O’Neil, Hugoton. GOLD SQUAD Kaeson Fisher-Brown, Derby; Marcus Zeigler, Wichita Heights; Eli Shetlar, Andover; Isaiah Atwater, Maize South; Caleb Carr, Baldwin; Kellan Simoneau, Rose Hill; Landon Boss, Osage City; Jake Proctor, Hesston; Brekyn Ratzlaff, Hillsboro; Landon Kaufman, Moundridge; Ryan Kuckelman, Macksville; Alec Carlson, Pawnee Heights. Head coach–Martin Shetlar, Andover. Assistants–Vance Unrau, Moundridge; Jeff Kuckelman, Macksville; Garrett Roth, Hesston.&nbsp;

GIRLS BLUE SQUAD Destiny Yates, Manhattan; Rebecca Snyder, Emporia; Avery Lowe, Maize South; Jordan Sears, McPherson; Trista Hoobler, Wamego; Carli Carlson, Clearwater; Talexa Weeter, Goodland; Mia Sarwinski, Galena; Kanyon Olberding, Jackson Heights; Jaci Vonlintel, TMP-Marian; Brynna Hammeke, Central Plains; Ceegan Atkins, Hanover. Head coach–Chris Beikmann, Hanover. Assistants–Bill Biermann, Goodland; Perry Smith, Doniphan West. GOLD SQUAD Becca Unruh, Dodge City; Amaya Gallegos, Garden City; Landon Forbes, Bishop Carroll; Maddi Amekporfor, Andover Central; Mikyn Hamlin, Hugoton; Summya Adigun, Hugoton; McKayla Miller, Cimarron; Campbell Hague, Cheney; Brittany Simpson, Ellinwood; Lillie Veer, Berean Academy; Anna Briggs, Quinter; Brooklyn Jones, Lebo. Head coach–Kristin Wiebe, Berean Academy. Assistant–Rick Hetzel, St. Thomas Aquinas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information regarding the KBCA, visit their <a href="https://www.kansaskbca.com/">site</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680055807425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;— Hutchinson High School senior Garrett Robertson has been named to the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Game roster, the KBCA announced on Wednesday.The annual game will take place on Saturday, June 24 at Mabee Arena on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina. The same arena that Robertson will call home in the fall.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I would like to thank God, all glory goes to him, my coaches who have always pushed me to be better, and my family for all their support. With that being said, I am excited to announce that I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at Kansas Wesleyan. <a href="https://twitter.com/coachamonson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@coachamonson</a> <a href="https://t.co/lieiEV16WD">pic.twitter.com/lieiEV16WD</a>&mdash; Garrett Robertson (@Gmanrob2023) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gmanrob2023/status/1653201722867687424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Twenty-four girls from across the state will compete in the first of two games at 6 p.m. The twenty-four boys will compete in the second game around 7:30 p.m.Admission will be $6 for adults and $4 for students in K-12.Robertson helped lead the Salthawks to a 4th place finish in the class 5A state tournament in Emporia in March. Robertson finished his high school career with over 900 points scored.The KBCA game will be the second all-star game that Robertson will have played in since the end of his senior campaign.&nbsp; BOYS BLUE SQUAD Grant Stubblefield, BV Northwest; Harrison Kisling, Olathe West; Tyson Ruud, Basehor-Linwood; Garrett Robertson, Hutchinson; Carson Bennett, Hugoton; Ryle Riddlesperger, Hugoton; Eli Sawyers, Southeast of Saline; Matthew Garber, Sabetha; Britton Dutton, Ellinwood; Keller Hurla, St. Marys; Jordy Dolloff, Wichita Classical; Jaxson Brandl, Greeley County. Head coach–Josh Gooch, Greeley County. Assistants–Aaron Ihm, BV Northwest; Trey O’Neil, Hugoton. GOLD SQUAD Kaeson Fisher-Brown, Derby; Marcus Zeigler, Wichita Heights; Eli Shetlar, Andover; Isaiah Atwater, Maize South; Caleb Carr, Baldwin; Kellan Simoneau, Rose Hill; Landon Boss, Osage City; Jake Proctor, Hesston; Brekyn Ratzlaff, Hillsboro; Landon Kaufman, Moundridge; Ryan Kuckelman, Macksville; Alec Carlson, Pawnee Heights. Head coach–Martin Shetlar, Andover. Assistants–Vance Unrau, Moundridge; Jeff Kuckelman, Macksville; Garrett Roth, Hesston.&nbsp; GIRLS BLUE SQUAD Destiny Yates, Manhattan; Rebecca Snyder, Emporia; Avery Lowe, Maize South; Jordan Sears, McPherson; Trista Hoobler, Wamego; Carli Carlson, Clearwater; Talexa Weeter, Goodland; Mia Sarwinski, Galena; Kanyon Olberding, Jackson Heights; Jaci Vonlintel, TMP-Marian; Brynna Hammeke, Central Plains; Ceegan Atkins, Hanover. Head coach–Chris Beikmann, Hanover. Assistants–Bill Biermann, Goodland; Perry Smith, Doniphan West. GOLD SQUAD Becca Unruh, Dodge City; Amaya Gallegos, Garden City; Landon Forbes, Bishop Carroll; Maddi Amekporfor, Andover Central; Mikyn Hamlin, Hugoton; Summya Adigun, Hugoton; McKayla Miller, Cimarron; Campbell Hague, Cheney; Brittany Simpson, Ellinwood; Lillie Veer, Berean Academy; Anna Briggs, Quinter; Brooklyn Jones, Lebo. Head coach–Kristin Wiebe, Berean Academy. Assistant–Rick Hetzel, St. Thomas Aquinas.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information regarding the KBCA, visit their <a href="https://www.kansaskbca.com/">site</a>.&nbsp;<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;&nbsp;

🏀 Hutch High's Robertson named to KBCA All-Star Game roster

Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

MANHATTAN, Kan. - In the midst of one of the best seasons in program history, the Kansas State men's golf team earned a postseason bid for a second-consecutive season as the Wildcats were tabbed the No. 5 seed in the 2023 NCAA Bath (Michigan) Regional, the NCAA Division I Men's Golf Selection Committee announced Wednesday during College Central on GOLF Channel.

K-State will compete at Eagle Eye Golf Club, May 15-17, against a field of 13 teams. It will be the Wildcats' ninth regional in school history, while it is the first time K-State has been selected for regionals in back-to-back years since 2008 and 2009. "It feels great," head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/coaches/grant-robbins/1886">Grant Robbins</a>&nbsp;said. "It took a while to get to that first step to make regionals - we came so close in 2019 and again in 2021. Last year, we finally broke through and made that regional. This year, we just had such a great year. We were very consistent in the top 25 all year. So, this year, it's all about where we're going and what it's going to take to advance." The Wildcats have put together seven top-five finishes - including four wins - this season to tie for second in school history in both categories. K-State's current 281.45 team stroke average is the lowest in school history by nearly seven shots per round. Eight of the top 20 team rounds in school history have come this season in addition to five of the top 15 54-hole scores. In turn, the Wildcats' top six players this year all have individual stroke averages that rank in the top 12 in school history, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/tim-tillmanns/9694">Tim Tillmanns</a>&nbsp;(70.23),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/will-hopkins/9688">Will Hopkins</a>&nbsp;(70.29) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-schultz/9693">Cooper Schultz</a>&nbsp;(71.00) that currently hold the top three spots. Tillmanns and Hopkins, both seniors, currently rank first and second in school history in career stroke average. Tillmanns, from Cologne, Germany, holds a 71.88 average over 95 career rounds, and Hopkins, a native of Lincolnshire, England, is at 72.32 over 125 career rounds. Both players also rank in the top 10 in school history in career top-10 finishes with Tillmanns (13) tied for seventh and Hopkins (11) tied for ninth. The top five teams and the low individual not on an advancing team in the 2023 NCAA Bath Regional will move on to the 2023 NCAA Championship, held May 26-31 at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Wildcats are in search of qualifying for their first championship in school history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683141943501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. - In the midst of one of the best seasons in program history, the Kansas State men's golf team earned a postseason bid for a second-consecutive season as the Wildcats were tabbed the No. 5 seed in the 2023 NCAA Bath (Michigan) Regional, the NCAA Division I Men's Golf Selection Committee announced Wednesday during College Central on GOLF Channel.K-State will compete at Eagle Eye Golf Club, May 15-17, against a field of 13 teams. It will be the Wildcats' ninth regional in school history, while it is the first time K-State has been selected for regionals in back-to-back years since 2008 and 2009. "It feels great," head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/coaches/grant-robbins/1886">Grant Robbins</a>&nbsp;said. "It took a while to get to that first step to make regionals - we came so close in 2019 and again in 2021. Last year, we finally broke through and made that regional. This year, we just had such a great year. We were very consistent in the top 25 all year. So, this year, it's all about where we're going and what it's going to take to advance." The Wildcats have put together seven top-five finishes - including four wins - this season to tie for second in school history in both categories. K-State's current 281.45 team stroke average is the lowest in school history by nearly seven shots per round. Eight of the top 20 team rounds in school history have come this season in addition to five of the top 15 54-hole scores. In turn, the Wildcats' top six players this year all have individual stroke averages that rank in the top 12 in school history, led by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/tim-tillmanns/9694">Tim Tillmanns</a>&nbsp;(70.23),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/will-hopkins/9688">Will Hopkins</a>&nbsp;(70.29) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-schultz/9693">Cooper Schultz</a>&nbsp;(71.00) that currently hold the top three spots. Tillmanns and Hopkins, both seniors, currently rank first and second in school history in career stroke average. Tillmanns, from Cologne, Germany, holds a 71.88 average over 95 career rounds, and Hopkins, a native of Lincolnshire, England, is at 72.32 over 125 career rounds. Both players also rank in the top 10 in school history in career top-10 finishes with Tillmanns (13) tied for seventh and Hopkins (11) tied for ninth. The top five teams and the low individual not on an advancing team in the 2023 NCAA Bath Regional will move on to the 2023 NCAA Championship, held May 26-31 at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Wildcats are in search of qualifying for their first championship in school history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ K-State selected as 5th seed in NCAA regional

MANHATTAN, Kansas – K-State women's basketball will face Missouri in the 2023 Bill Snyder Basketball Classic to be played in St. Joseph, Missouri, at Civic Arena. The game will be played on Saturday, December 9, at 5 p.m. 

Ticket information for the Bill Snyder Basketball Classic will be released in early summer in which all sales will be facilitated through the Civic Arena Box Office. "We are excited to play in the first Bill Snyder Classic," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/1817">Jeff Mittie</a>. "Coach Snyder has meant so much to Kansas State University, Manhattan and St. Joseph, Missouri. We are honored to take part in this game." Legendary former K-State football coach Bill Snyder was born in St. Joseph and lived there through his graduation at Lafayette High School. He was a 2021 inaugural member of the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame and has remained involved with future enshrinement ceremonies as he presents the Snyder Women of Impact Award on an annual basis. The Wildcats lead the all-time series against the Tigers, 45-39, including a 5-4 mark in games played at a neutral site. This marks the 10th neutral site meeting in the series and the first since K-State secured a 79-58 win over Missouri in the 2004 Big 12 Championship in Dallas, Texas, on March 10, 2004. K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark. The Wildcats will be led in the 2023-24 season by 2022 consensus All-American and three-time All-Big 12 First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/8610">Ayoka Lee</a>. Joining Lee will be K-State's 2022-23 leading scorer and All-Big 12 First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/8613">Gabby Gregory</a>, 2022-23 All-Big 12 Honorable Mention recipient and Maryville, Missouri, native&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/serena-sundell/8612">Serena Sundell</a>&nbsp;and Kansas City, Missouri, products the Glenn sisters, Brylee and Jaelyn. Missouri completed the 2022-23 season with an 18-14 overall mark and a 6-10 record in the SEC. The Tigers reached the second round of the 2023 WNIT under the guidance of head coach Robin Pingeton. K-State women's basketball season tickets will go on sale June 5 and start at just $50 for football and men's basketball season ticket holders. Single-game ticket information will be announced later this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683141712325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kansas – K-State women's basketball will face Missouri in the 2023 Bill Snyder Basketball Classic to be played in St. Joseph, Missouri, at Civic Arena. The game will be played on Saturday, December 9, at 5 p.m. Ticket information for the Bill Snyder Basketball Classic will be released in early summer in which all sales will be facilitated through the Civic Arena Box Office. "We are excited to play in the first Bill Snyder Classic," said head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/1817">Jeff Mittie</a>. "Coach Snyder has meant so much to Kansas State University, Manhattan and St. Joseph, Missouri. We are honored to take part in this game." Legendary former K-State football coach Bill Snyder was born in St. Joseph and lived there through his graduation at Lafayette High School. He was a 2021 inaugural member of the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame and has remained involved with future enshrinement ceremonies as he presents the Snyder Women of Impact Award on an annual basis. The Wildcats lead the all-time series against the Tigers, 45-39, including a 5-4 mark in games played at a neutral site. This marks the 10th neutral site meeting in the series and the first since K-State secured a 79-58 win over Missouri in the 2004 Big 12 Championship in Dallas, Texas, on March 10, 2004. K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark. The Wildcats will be led in the 2023-24 season by 2022 consensus All-American and three-time All-Big 12 First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/ayoka-lee/8610">Ayoka Lee</a>. Joining Lee will be K-State's 2022-23 leading scorer and All-Big 12 First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/gabby-gregory/8613">Gabby Gregory</a>, 2022-23 All-Big 12 Honorable Mention recipient and Maryville, Missouri, native&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/serena-sundell/8612">Serena Sundell</a>&nbsp;and Kansas City, Missouri, products the Glenn sisters, Brylee and Jaelyn. Missouri completed the 2022-23 season with an 18-14 overall mark and a 6-10 record in the SEC. The Tigers reached the second round of the 2023 WNIT under the guidance of head coach Robin Pingeton. K-State women's basketball season tickets will go on sale June 5 and start at just $50 for football and men's basketball season ticket holders. Single-game ticket information will be announced later this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 WBB: K-State faces Missouri in 2023 Bill Snyder Basketball Classic

DENTON, Tex.&nbsp;— North Texas transfer Tylor Perry announced on Tuesday night his commitment to play for Jerome Tang and Kansas State.

Perry was one of the best available players in the portal. He chose the Wildcats over Florida, Ole Miss and Texas Tech.

The 5-foot-11 guard was named the Conference USA Player of the Year and led the Mean Green to a 31-7 record and an NIT championship. He averaged 17.3 points per game and 3.4 rebounds, while shooting 41.3% from behind the arc.

He was also named the NIT Most Outstanding Player after scoring at least 20 points in four of the five games in the tournament.

Perry played two seasons at Coffeyville Community College in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. He led the Red Ravens to the 2021 NJCAA DI National Championship in the Sports Arena as a sophomore.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683137017626.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENTON, Tex.&nbsp;— North Texas transfer Tylor Perry announced on Tuesday night his commitment to play for Jerome Tang and Kansas State.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It’s Time <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EMAW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EMAW</a>💜 <a href="https://t.co/hSbTrg2aL7">pic.twitter.com/hSbTrg2aL7</a>&mdash; TylorPerry (@TimarPerry) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimarPerry/status/1653576565475749891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Perry was one of the best available players in the portal. He chose the Wildcats over Florida, Ole Miss and Texas Tech.The 5-foot-11 guard was named the Conference USA Player of the Year and led the Mean Green to a 31-7 record and an NIT championship. He averaged 17.3 points per game and 3.4 rebounds, while shooting 41.3% from behind the arc.He was also named the NIT Most Outstanding Player after scoring at least 20 points in four of the five games in the tournament.Perry played two seasons at Coffeyville Community College in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. He led the Red Ravens to the 2021 NJCAA DI National Championship in the Sports Arena as a sophomore.<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;&nbsp;

🏀 MBB: K-State lands North Texas transfer, former Coffeyville CC Red Raven

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;USA Softball trimmed the list from 25 finalists to 10 for the Collegiate Player of the Year Wednesday morning, and Wichita State senior shortstop&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;made the cut. A top 10 finalist a season ago, McKinney is once again the premiere hitter in college softball. The Norborne, Mo., native leads the country in batting average (.533) and hits (96), and ranks top 10 nationally in runs (71), triples (7), on base percentage (.573) and total bases (135). In 180 at bats this season, McKinney has struck out just seven times. She has logged 820 at bats and struck out a total of 50 times in her collegiate career. McKinney has cracked the NCAA top 5 all-time hits list with 371 career hits. She is a three-time American Athletic Conference Player of the Week and seeking to become the first player in NCAA history to repeat as both the batting average and hits champ. No player has ever accomplished the feat in back-to-back seasons. McKinney was named to the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Top 50 Watch List prior to the season before making the cut at 25.&nbsp;Considered the most distinguished individual honor in Division I college softball, the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award recognizes outstanding athletic achievement by Division I female collegiate softball players from across the country. Highlighted by four pitchers – two of which also contribute offensively – and six position players, the Top 10 Finalists include one graduate student, three seniors, five juniors, and one sophomore representing six NCAA Division I universities and five athletic conferences. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads in representation with two member schools, followed by the American Athletic Conference (AAC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Big 12 Conference and Pac-12 Conference each with one school apiece. Tabbing three athletes to the list of Finalists is No. 1 ranked Oklahoma, while UCLA and Tennessee are each represented by two athletes, along with Clemson, Florida and Wichita State each with one athlete on the list. The Top 3 Finalists will be revealed on Wednesday, May 17, followed by the announcement of the 2023 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year prior to the NCAA Women's College World Series slated for June 1-9 at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex. Paired with the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award, USA Softball is also in its 21st season of presenting the ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate Top 25 Poll, which is released every Tuesday throughout the regular season. Follow along with Division I NCAA Softball all season long at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teamusa.org/usa-softball/ncaa-college-corner">USASoftball.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683136261283.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;USA Softball trimmed the list from 25 finalists to 10 for the Collegiate Player of the Year Wednesday morning, and Wichita State senior shortstop&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;made the cut. A top 10 finalist a season ago, McKinney is once again the premiere hitter in college softball. The Norborne, Mo., native leads the country in batting average (.533) and hits (96), and ranks top 10 nationally in runs (71), triples (7), on base percentage (.573) and total bases (135). In 180 at bats this season, McKinney has struck out just seven times. She has logged 820 at bats and struck out a total of 50 times in her collegiate career. McKinney has cracked the NCAA top 5 all-time hits list with 371 career hits. She is a three-time American Athletic Conference Player of the Week and seeking to become the first player in NCAA history to repeat as both the batting average and hits champ. No player has ever accomplished the feat in back-to-back seasons. McKinney was named to the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Top 50 Watch List prior to the season before making the cut at 25.&nbsp;Considered the most distinguished individual honor in Division I college softball, the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award recognizes outstanding athletic achievement by Division I female collegiate softball players from across the country. Highlighted by four pitchers – two of which also contribute offensively – and six position players, the Top 10 Finalists include one graduate student, three seniors, five juniors, and one sophomore representing six NCAA Division I universities and five athletic conferences. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads in representation with two member schools, followed by the American Athletic Conference (AAC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Big 12 Conference and Pac-12 Conference each with one school apiece. Tabbing three athletes to the list of Finalists is No. 1 ranked Oklahoma, while UCLA and Tennessee are each represented by two athletes, along with Clemson, Florida and Wichita State each with one athlete on the list. The Top 3 Finalists will be revealed on Wednesday, May 17, followed by the announcement of the 2023 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year prior to the NCAA Women's College World Series slated for June 1-9 at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex. Paired with the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award, USA Softball is also in its 21st season of presenting the ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate Top 25 Poll, which is released every Tuesday throughout the regular season. Follow along with Division I NCAA Softball all season long at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.teamusa.org/usa-softball/ncaa-college-corner">USASoftball.com.</a>

🥎 McKinney a finalist for USA Softball Player of the Year

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salthawk baseball team picked up its first win of the season on Tuesday afternoon, splitting with Goddard Eisenhower.&nbsp; The Salthawks won the first game, 8-4 before falling in the second, 9-1.&nbsp; Hutchinson pushed across four runs in the third inning to lead 5-1. The Salthawks added two more insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth to extend the lead to 8-3.&nbsp; The Salthawks offense was led by Bradyn Rodriguez who went 3-for-4 with three RBI in the game. Carter Morgan added a pair of hits, as well. Freshman Julian Lyons earns his first career win on the mound, going 4.1 innings and allowing just two hits and three runs.&nbsp; The Salthawks and Tigers were tied at one apiece in the second game through three innings in the second game. Eisenhower responded with five in the fourth and three more spaced throughout the final three innings to extend its lead.&nbsp; Caiden Beavers collected three of the four Salthawk hits in the game.&nbsp; Hutchinson will host Maize on Friday afternoon at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680751625878.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salthawk baseball team picked up its first win of the season on Tuesday afternoon, splitting with Goddard Eisenhower.&nbsp; The Salthawks won the first game, 8-4 before falling in the second, 9-1.&nbsp; Hutchinson pushed across four runs in the third inning to lead 5-1. The Salthawks added two more insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth to extend the lead to 8-3.&nbsp; The Salthawks offense was led by Bradyn Rodriguez who went 3-for-4 with three RBI in the game. Carter Morgan added a pair of hits, as well. Freshman Julian Lyons earns his first career win on the mound, going 4.1 innings and allowing just two hits and three runs.&nbsp; The Salthawks and Tigers were tied at one apiece in the second game through three innings in the second game. Eisenhower responded with five in the fourth and three more spaced throughout the final three innings to extend its lead.&nbsp; Caiden Beavers collected three of the four Salthawk hits in the game.&nbsp; Hutchinson will host Maize on Friday afternoon at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m.&nbsp;

⚾️ Salthawks split with Ike, earn first win

Wichita, KS – The Wichita Wind Surge hit a pair of two run home runs to open the two week road-trip but it was not enough as the Northwest Arkansas Naturals defeated the Surge 6-4 in the series opener on Tuesday afternoon.

The Naturals started lefty Daniel Lynch on Tuesday on a rehab assignment from the Kansas City Royals. He pitched two and a third innings allowed two runs on four hits and had six strikeouts. David Banuelos hit a 409-foot home run to centerfield off of him in the second inning to start the scoring.

The Naturals sent eight hitters to the plate in the in the third inning to take the lead. Northwest Arkansas scored four runs on three hits taking advantage of two walks in the inning. Jorge Bonifacio had two hits, scored twice and drove home two runs for the Naturals.

The Wind Surge cut it to a one run deficit in the fourth inning with a two run home run from Armani Smith.

Dante Biasi pitched an inning allowed one run and earned the win in relief for the Naturals. Wichita starter Travis Adams allowed five runs in four innings to drop his season record to 1-4.

The Surge stranded nine in the game and finished one for fourteen with runners on base.

The Wind Surge dropped their season high fourth consecutive game. Wichita is 9-13 on the season and the Naturals are 11-11.

NOTES – The Wind Surge fell to 0-8 in day games this season and lost for the first time in a series opener 4-1 for the season. It was the second consecutive Tuesday that the Wind Surge faced a starting pitcher on a rehab assignment.

UPCOMING – The Wind Surge and Naturals continue the series on Wednesday evening at 7:05. The Surge will start LH Aaron Rozek against RH Andrew Hoffman.

BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM, Milb First Pitch App, Windsurge.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683115067684.jpeg" alt="Wind&nbsp; Surge Baseball" />
 <figcaption>Wind&nbsp; Surge Baseball</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita, KS – The Wichita Wind Surge hit a pair of two run home runs to open the two week road-trip but it was not enough as the Northwest Arkansas Naturals defeated the Surge 6-4 in the series opener on Tuesday afternoon.The Naturals started lefty Daniel Lynch on Tuesday on a rehab assignment from the Kansas City Royals. He pitched two and a third innings allowed two runs on four hits and had six strikeouts. David Banuelos hit a 409-foot home run to centerfield off of him in the second inning to start the scoring.The Naturals sent eight hitters to the plate in the in the third inning to take the lead. Northwest Arkansas scored four runs on three hits taking advantage of two walks in the inning. Jorge Bonifacio had two hits, scored twice and drove home two runs for the Naturals.The Wind Surge cut it to a one run deficit in the fourth inning with a two run home run from Armani Smith.Dante Biasi pitched an inning allowed one run and earned the win in relief for the Naturals. Wichita starter Travis Adams allowed five runs in four innings to drop his season record to 1-4.The Surge stranded nine in the game and finished one for fourteen with runners on base.The Wind Surge dropped their season high fourth consecutive game. Wichita is 9-13 on the season and the Naturals are 11-11.NOTES – The Wind Surge fell to 0-8 in day games this season and lost for the first time in a series opener 4-1 for the season. It was the second consecutive Tuesday that the Wind Surge faced a starting pitcher on a rehab assignment.UPCOMING – The Wind Surge and Naturals continue the series on Wednesday evening at 7:05. The Surge will start LH Aaron Rozek against RH Andrew Hoffman.BROADCAST: ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM, Milb First Pitch App, Windsurge.com.NEXT HOME GAME: Tuesday, May 16 vs Arkansas Travelers.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;&nbsp;

⚾ Wichita Wind Surge drop opener in NW Arkansas

#18/19&nbsp;Wichita State at Kansas Wednesday, May 3 | 5 PM Lawrence, Kan. | Arrocha Ballpark ESPN+ | StatBroadcast.com QUICK HITS • Wichita State concludes the 2023 regular season with a midweek contest at Kansas on Wednesday. • Wichita State is the AAC regular season champion, and will be the top seed in the 2023 AAC Championship. • Wichita State is ranked in all four polls: NFCA (#18), USA Softball (#19), D1 Softball (#18) and Softball America (#20). Wichita State's #18 ranking in NFCA and D1 Softball is the highest in school history. • Wichita State has moved up to No. 18 in the RPI. • Wichita State's 43-8 record is the best start through 51 games in school history. • Wichita State has its third 40-win season in school history. • Wichita State is riding a 7-game win streak. • Wichita State is 9-1 in its last 10 games. • Wichita State has three Top 10 wins this season - #9 Arkansas, #2 Oklahoma State and #3 Oklahoma State. • Wichita State's win at #3 Oklahoma State was the highest ranked road win in school history. • Wichita State's win over #2 Oklahoma State was the highest ranked win in school history. • Wichita State has 10 shutouts in 2023. The 2022 Shockers had five all season. • After playing just 11 home games in 2022, Wichita State had 27 games at Wilkins Stadium in 2023. • Wichita State received three first place votes in the AAC Preseason Poll and was picked to finish 2nd, just one point behind UCF. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7249">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;is a 3-time AAC Pitcher of the Week (Mar. 20, Apr. 10, Apr. 24). •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;has been awarded AAC Player of the Week honors three times in 2023 (Feb. 20, April 3, April 10). •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/zoe-jones/7234">Zoe Jones</a>&nbsp;was American Player of the Week on March 27. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;has been named the American Pitcher of the Week twice (Feb. 20, March 6). • McKinney was also named the Louisville Slugger/NFCA National Player of the Week on Feb. 21. • McKinney leads the country in hits and batting average. • McKinney led the nation in hits and batting average in 2022. • McKinney is the NCAA DI active leader in hits and at bats. • McKinney became the first Shocker with 300 career hits on Feb. 19 vs. FDU. • McKinney is the program's all-time hits, batting average, runs and total bases leader, while also owning single season records for those categories. • McKinney is one of 25 finalists for USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;has 69 career home runs, the most all time at Wichita State and in American Athletic Conference history. • Barnard finished the 2022 season leading the nation in home runs per game and RBI per game, and ranked second in home runs, RBI and slugging percentage. • Barnard's 33 home runs broke her own single season record. • Barnard became the first known player in NCAA history with 30+ home runs and 25+ stolen bases. • Barnard is the only active DI player with 60+ HR and 50+ SB. • Barnard ranks 2nd among NCAA DI active players in career home runs. SERIES HISTORY VS. KANSAS The series between Wichita State and Kansas dates back to 1978 when the two programs met for the very first time. Kansas leads the all time series, 73-23-1. Wichita State didn't record its first win in the series until 1986. Wichita State has won three straight vs. the Jayhawks after Kansas had won the three meetings prior. LAST MEETING WITH THE JAYHAWKS The two Sunflower State programs met back in March on the 21st in Wichita. Kansas grabbed a 3-1 lead, only to see the Shockers score eight unanswered, including a five-run fifth inning, to win going away, 9-3.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7229">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sami-hood/7246">Sami Hood</a>&nbsp;both homered and drove in 3 runs apiece. Alison recorded the win out of the bullpen, throwing 6.0 scoreless innings of relief. 40 WIN SEASON Wichita State recorded its 40th win of the season on Sunday, April 23 vs. East Carolina. It marks only the third 40-win season in school history, joining the 2005 and 2021 teams. The 2005 team holds the current school record with 46 wins. 2023 AAC REGULAR SEASON CHAMPS Wichita State won its second American Athletic Conference regular season championship. It marks the fourth regular season conferene title in school history and second in the last three seasons. All four regular season championships (2014, 2016, 2021, 2023) have come under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>. It also ensures the No. 1 seed in the American Athletic Conference Championship. The Shockers will receive a first round bye into the semifinals. DON'T LET ADDIE GET HOT One of the nation's premiere home run hitters got off to a slow start in 2023, but seems to be getting into a groove. In her first 17 games of the season,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;had just two home runs. She has 12 in her last 30 games, including her first multi-home run game of 2023 vs. Northern Colorado. In conference play, Barnard is hitting .429 with 7 doubles, 8 home runs and 19 RBI. RPI - WEEK NINE Wichita State checked in at No. 18 in the week nine RPI rankings on May 1. The Shockers have already faced 12 teams in the Top 75, including No. 3 Stanford, No. 4 Oklahoma State (twice), No. 14 Arkansas, No. 27 Minnesota, No. 31 UCF, No. 35 Nebraska, No. 38 San Diego State, No. 42 Texas State, No. 48 Boise State, No. 53 South Dakota State, No. 55 Kansas, No. 62 South Florida and No. 68 Villanova. Wichita State still has a game against No. 55 Kansas. TOP 10 WINS Wichita State owns a trio of Top 10 wins in 2023 after taking down No. 3 Oklahoma State on April 18 in Stillwater. The Shockers completed the regular season sweep of Oklahoma State with wins in Stillwater and Wichita. The win over the Cowgirls in Wichita marked the highest ranked win in program history, having never beaten a Top 5 team before the matchup. The road win over OSU marked the highest ranked win on the road in school history. Wichita State's resume now includes wins over No. 2/3 Oklahoma State (twice) and No. 9 Arkansas (March 14), making it the first season in school history with multiple Top 10 victories. Wichita State has four Top 10 wins under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>, all four coming in the last three seasons. PITCHING PROWESS The pitching staff was a question mark entering the season in 2023, but those questions have since disappeared. Wichita State's trio of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7249">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;have accomplished something already that no other team in school history has done. All three have double digit wins in 2023. Howell (18-2), Aguilar (14-2) and Cooper (11-4) have combined for all 43 wins so far this season, making them the first trio of teammates to have 10 or more wins in a single season in the circle. TOP 25 FINALIST Wichita State senior&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;was named one of 25 finalists for USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year on April 19. A top 10 finalist a season ago, McKinney is once again putting the nation on notice. McKinney was named to the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Top 50 Watch List prior to the season before making the cut at 25. Considered the most distinguished individual honor in Division I college softball, the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award recognizes outstanding athletic achievement by Division I female collegiate softball players from across the country. The Top 25 Finalists will be narrowed down to 10 athletes on May 3, followed by the Top 3 Finalists set to be released on May 17. SHOCKER SLUGGERS RETURN Wichita State returns 100 of the 121 home runs hit from the 2022 team. Led by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;(33), Wichita State brings back one of the nation's best offenses in 2023.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-mills/7237">Lauren Mills</a>&nbsp;(16),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/zoe-jones/7234">Zoe Jones</a>&nbsp;(15),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;(13),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;(10),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7233">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;(5),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7229">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;(4),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-urban/7242">Bailey Urban</a>&nbsp;(3) and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7238">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;(1) combined to hit the century mark in homers. PITCHERS BEWARE Wichita State obliterated the single season home run record for the second straight season in 2022. The Shockers crushed 103 in 2021, only to see the 2022 team set a new mark of 121. It only took 42 games for the 2022 team to match that number of 103. Wichita State has finished second nationally in home runs each of the last two seasons, behind only Oklahoma. ALL HAIL THE HIT QUEEN 371 in her career. She passed Britnee Barnett on April 29, 2022 vs. ECU with No. 251. • McKinney is the NCAA DI active career leader in hits (371) and at bats (820). She ranks 2nd in runs scored (245) and total bases (532), 3rd in batting average (.452) and 7th in triples (16). • McKinney's career batting average of .452 ranks 17th all-time in NCAA history. • McKinney became the first Shocker with 300 career hits on Feb. 19 vs. FDU. • McKinney's 245 career runs scored are the most in school history. • McKinney shattered her own single season record for batting average. She set it at .439 in 2021 and hit a nation-leading .522 in 2022. • With a career OBP of .502, McKinney currently holds the top spot in that category as well at Wichita State. • She ranks second with 16 career triples. • Her 45 career doubles place her in 5th on the school's all-time list. ONE OF THREE Wichita State is one of only three schools in the country, joining Oklahoma and Arkansas, to return multiple NFCA All-Americans from a season ago. The Shockers of course bring back NFCA Second Team All-Americans&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>. THE AMERICAN STANDARD Since Wichita State entered the American Athletic Conference in 2018, the Shockers have been the league's top offensive team in the league. Not counting the COVID-19 shortened 2020 season, Wichita State has led the American in batting average (2021, 2022), slugging percentage (2018-22), on base percentage (2019-22), runs (2019-22), hits (2022), RBI (2019-22), doubles (2018, 2021-22), home runs (2018-22), total bases (2018-22) and walks (2019, 2021). HOME SWEET HOME Just a season ago Wichita State took on the role of road warrior. The Shockers had 27 home games at Wilkins Stadium in 2023 compared to only 11 in 2022. During the month of March Wichita State only left&nbsp;Wichita once. Seventeen of those 27 home games took&nbsp;place in the month of March, including matchups against 2022 NCAA Regional teams: Stanford, Nebraska, Missouri State, Arkansas, Minnesota and South Florida. IN THE AMERICAN RECORD BOOKS Wichita State is well-represented in the American Athletic Conference record books. Currently&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;holds the single-season record for batting average, hits, on base percentage and runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;is the single-season record holder for home runs, RBI, slugging percentage and total bases. On the career charts, McKinney already enters her final season holding the top spot in batting average, on base percentage, runs, total bases and hits. Barnard is the all-time home run leader and needs 14 RBI to surpass Wichita State's own Madison Perrigan for the most all-time in American history. UP NEXT Wichita State has the weekend off before opening American Athletic Conference Championship play on May 12 at 11 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680800157153.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;#18/19&nbsp;Wichita State at Kansas Wednesday, May 3 | 5 PM Lawrence, Kan. | Arrocha Ballpark ESPN+ | StatBroadcast.com QUICK HITS • Wichita State concludes the 2023 regular season with a midweek contest at Kansas on Wednesday. • Wichita State is the AAC regular season champion, and will be the top seed in the 2023 AAC Championship. • Wichita State is ranked in all four polls: NFCA (#18), USA Softball (#19), D1 Softball (#18) and Softball America (#20). Wichita State's #18 ranking in NFCA and D1 Softball is the highest in school history. • Wichita State has moved up to No. 18 in the RPI. • Wichita State's 43-8 record is the best start through 51 games in school history. • Wichita State has its third 40-win season in school history. • Wichita State is riding a 7-game win streak. • Wichita State is 9-1 in its last 10 games. • Wichita State has three Top 10 wins this season - #9 Arkansas, #2 Oklahoma State and #3 Oklahoma State. • Wichita State's win at #3 Oklahoma State was the highest ranked road win in school history. • Wichita State's win over #2 Oklahoma State was the highest ranked win in school history. • Wichita State has 10 shutouts in 2023. The 2022 Shockers had five all season. • After playing just 11 home games in 2022, Wichita State had 27 games at Wilkins Stadium in 2023. • Wichita State received three first place votes in the AAC Preseason Poll and was picked to finish 2nd, just one point behind UCF. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7249">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;is a 3-time AAC Pitcher of the Week (Mar. 20, Apr. 10, Apr. 24). •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;has been awarded AAC Player of the Week honors three times in 2023 (Feb. 20, April 3, April 10). •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/zoe-jones/7234">Zoe Jones</a>&nbsp;was American Player of the Week on March 27. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>&nbsp;has been named the American Pitcher of the Week twice (Feb. 20, March 6). • McKinney was also named the Louisville Slugger/NFCA National Player of the Week on Feb. 21. • McKinney leads the country in hits and batting average. • McKinney led the nation in hits and batting average in 2022. • McKinney is the NCAA DI active leader in hits and at bats. • McKinney became the first Shocker with 300 career hits on Feb. 19 vs. FDU. • McKinney is the program's all-time hits, batting average, runs and total bases leader, while also owning single season records for those categories. • McKinney is one of 25 finalists for USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year. •&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;has 69 career home runs, the most all time at Wichita State and in American Athletic Conference history. • Barnard finished the 2022 season leading the nation in home runs per game and RBI per game, and ranked second in home runs, RBI and slugging percentage. • Barnard's 33 home runs broke her own single season record. • Barnard became the first known player in NCAA history with 30+ home runs and 25+ stolen bases. • Barnard is the only active DI player with 60+ HR and 50+ SB. • Barnard ranks 2nd among NCAA DI active players in career home runs. SERIES HISTORY VS. KANSAS The series between Wichita State and Kansas dates back to 1978 when the two programs met for the very first time. Kansas leads the all time series, 73-23-1. Wichita State didn't record its first win in the series until 1986. Wichita State has won three straight vs. the Jayhawks after Kansas had won the three meetings prior. LAST MEETING WITH THE JAYHAWKS The two Sunflower State programs met back in March on the 21st in Wichita. Kansas grabbed a 3-1 lead, only to see the Shockers score eight unanswered, including a five-run fifth inning, to win going away, 9-3.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7229">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sami-hood/7246">Sami Hood</a>&nbsp;both homered and drove in 3 runs apiece. Alison recorded the win out of the bullpen, throwing 6.0 scoreless innings of relief. 40 WIN SEASON Wichita State recorded its 40th win of the season on Sunday, April 23 vs. East Carolina. It marks only the third 40-win season in school history, joining the 2005 and 2021 teams. The 2005 team holds the current school record with 46 wins. 2023 AAC REGULAR SEASON CHAMPS Wichita State won its second American Athletic Conference regular season championship. It marks the fourth regular season conferene title in school history and second in the last three seasons. All four regular season championships (2014, 2016, 2021, 2023) have come under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>. It also ensures the No. 1 seed in the American Athletic Conference Championship. The Shockers will receive a first round bye into the semifinals. DON'T LET ADDIE GET HOT One of the nation's premiere home run hitters got off to a slow start in 2023, but seems to be getting into a groove. In her first 17 games of the season,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;had just two home runs. She has 12 in her last 30 games, including her first multi-home run game of 2023 vs. Northern Colorado. In conference play, Barnard is hitting .429 with 7 doubles, 8 home runs and 19 RBI. RPI - WEEK NINE Wichita State checked in at No. 18 in the week nine RPI rankings on May 1. The Shockers have already faced 12 teams in the Top 75, including No. 3 Stanford, No. 4 Oklahoma State (twice), No. 14 Arkansas, No. 27 Minnesota, No. 31 UCF, No. 35 Nebraska, No. 38 San Diego State, No. 42 Texas State, No. 48 Boise State, No. 53 South Dakota State, No. 55 Kansas, No. 62 South Florida and No. 68 Villanova. Wichita State still has a game against No. 55 Kansas. TOP 10 WINS Wichita State owns a trio of Top 10 wins in 2023 after taking down No. 3 Oklahoma State on April 18 in Stillwater. The Shockers completed the regular season sweep of Oklahoma State with wins in Stillwater and Wichita. The win over the Cowgirls in Wichita marked the highest ranked win in program history, having never beaten a Top 5 team before the matchup. The road win over OSU marked the highest ranked win on the road in school history. Wichita State's resume now includes wins over No. 2/3 Oklahoma State (twice) and No. 9 Arkansas (March 14), making it the first season in school history with multiple Top 10 victories. Wichita State has four Top 10 wins under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/kristi-bredbenner/1072">Kristi Bredbenner</a>, all four coming in the last three seasons. PITCHING PROWESS The pitching staff was a question mark entering the season in 2023, but those questions have since disappeared. Wichita State's trio of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-howell/7244">Lauren Howell</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alex-aguilar/7249">Alex Aguilar</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/alison-cooper/7231">Alison Cooper</a>&nbsp;have accomplished something already that no other team in school history has done. All three have double digit wins in 2023. Howell (18-2), Aguilar (14-2) and Cooper (11-4) have combined for all 43 wins so far this season, making them the first trio of teammates to have 10 or more wins in a single season in the circle. TOP 25 FINALIST Wichita State senior&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;was named one of 25 finalists for USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year on April 19. A top 10 finalist a season ago, McKinney is once again putting the nation on notice. McKinney was named to the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Top 50 Watch List prior to the season before making the cut at 25. Considered the most distinguished individual honor in Division I college softball, the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award recognizes outstanding athletic achievement by Division I female collegiate softball players from across the country. The Top 25 Finalists will be narrowed down to 10 athletes on May 3, followed by the Top 3 Finalists set to be released on May 17. SHOCKER SLUGGERS RETURN Wichita State returns 100 of the 121 home runs hit from the 2022 team. Led by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;(33), Wichita State brings back one of the nation's best offenses in 2023.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-mills/7237">Lauren Mills</a>&nbsp;(16),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/zoe-jones/7234">Zoe Jones</a>&nbsp;(15),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;(13),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/7235">Lauren Lucas</a>&nbsp;(10),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/jessica-garcia/7233">Jessica Garcia</a>&nbsp;(5),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lainee-brown/7229">Lainee Brown</a>&nbsp;(4),&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-urban/7242">Bailey Urban</a>&nbsp;(3) and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/7238">Krystin Nelson</a>&nbsp;(1) combined to hit the century mark in homers. PITCHERS BEWARE Wichita State obliterated the single season home run record for the second straight season in 2022. The Shockers crushed 103 in 2021, only to see the 2022 team set a new mark of 121. It only took 42 games for the 2022 team to match that number of 103. Wichita State has finished second nationally in home runs each of the last two seasons, behind only Oklahoma. ALL HAIL THE HIT QUEEN 371 in her career. She passed Britnee Barnett on April 29, 2022 vs. ECU with No. 251. • McKinney is the NCAA DI active career leader in hits (371) and at bats (820). She ranks 2nd in runs scored (245) and total bases (532), 3rd in batting average (.452) and 7th in triples (16). • McKinney's career batting average of .452 ranks 17th all-time in NCAA history. • McKinney became the first Shocker with 300 career hits on Feb. 19 vs. FDU. • McKinney's 245 career runs scored are the most in school history. • McKinney shattered her own single season record for batting average. She set it at .439 in 2021 and hit a nation-leading .522 in 2022. • With a career OBP of .502, McKinney currently holds the top spot in that category as well at Wichita State. • She ranks second with 16 career triples. • Her 45 career doubles place her in 5th on the school's all-time list. ONE OF THREE Wichita State is one of only three schools in the country, joining Oklahoma and Arkansas, to return multiple NFCA All-Americans from a season ago. The Shockers of course bring back NFCA Second Team All-Americans&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>. THE AMERICAN STANDARD Since Wichita State entered the American Athletic Conference in 2018, the Shockers have been the league's top offensive team in the league. Not counting the COVID-19 shortened 2020 season, Wichita State has led the American in batting average (2021, 2022), slugging percentage (2018-22), on base percentage (2019-22), runs (2019-22), hits (2022), RBI (2019-22), doubles (2018, 2021-22), home runs (2018-22), total bases (2018-22) and walks (2019, 2021). HOME SWEET HOME Just a season ago Wichita State took on the role of road warrior. The Shockers had 27 home games at Wilkins Stadium in 2023 compared to only 11 in 2022. During the month of March Wichita State only left&nbsp;Wichita once. Seventeen of those 27 home games took&nbsp;place in the month of March, including matchups against 2022 NCAA Regional teams: Stanford, Nebraska, Missouri State, Arkansas, Minnesota and South Florida. IN THE AMERICAN RECORD BOOKS Wichita State is well-represented in the American Athletic Conference record books. Currently&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/sydney-mckinney/7236">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;holds the single-season record for batting average, hits, on base percentage and runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/addison-barnard/7228">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;is the single-season record holder for home runs, RBI, slugging percentage and total bases. On the career charts, McKinney already enters her final season holding the top spot in batting average, on base percentage, runs, total bases and hits. Barnard is the all-time home run leader and needs 14 RBI to surpass Wichita State's own Madison Perrigan for the most all-time in American history. UP NEXT Wichita State has the weekend off before opening American Athletic Conference Championship play on May 12 at 11 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🥎 No. 18 Wichita State closes regular season at Kansas

WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;-- Six Wichita State pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout as the Shockers completed the season sweep of Kansas State with a 1-0 win on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium. This is the first time since the 2012 season that the Shockers have swept Kansas State, and the first time since 2003 Wichita State has shutout the Wildcats. The combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/matt-boyer/7443">Matt Boyer</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caden-favors/7446">Caden Favors</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/cameron-bye/7444">Cameron Bye</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jace-miner/7449">Jace Miner</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/robert-cranz/7445">Robert Cranz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/nate-snead/7469">Nate Snead</a>&nbsp;limited Kansas State (28-18) to just five singles, but had to pitch out of several key jams throughout the game. The Wildcats put their leadoff man on base in five of nine innings, and three times had runners at first and second with nobody out. Two of those opportunities came in the seventh and eighth innings, with Wichita State still clinging to a 1-0 lead. A single and a walk put two aboard against Cranz in the seventh, but he induced a fly out to left and a double play to preserve the lead. In the eighth, Snead put the first two on via a single and walk, setting the stage for the top of the Kansas State order. He struck out Kyan Lodice attempting to bunt, then got help from a tremendous diving play at shortstop from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-herring/7462">David Herring</a>, who was able to flip to second base for a force out and the second out of the inning. A stolen base put the go-ahead runners in the scoring position, but Snead got Brendan Jones to bounce out to second to strand both Wildcats. In the ninth, Snead issued a leadoff walk and later wild pitched the runner into scoring position, but retired the next three hitters to secure his third save. Snead struck out Kansas State's Cole Johnson on a full count to end the game.

<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7461">Mauricio Millan</a>&nbsp;provided the game's only offense in the bottom of the third, shooting a two-out RBI single up the middle to score&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>. The run was charged to Wildcats starter Mason Buss (3-2), who allowed five hits and the one run over four innings. Favors (3-4) earned the win for Wichita State with his two scoreless innings of the bullpen, matching that of WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/matt-boyer/7443">Matt Boyer</a>. Bye, Miner, and Cranz each tossed a shutout inning, highlighted by a 1-2-3 inning from Bye with a pair of strikeouts. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-little/7464">Jack Little</a>&nbsp;was the only Shocker to record a multi-hit game, finishing 2-for-4.&nbsp; The Shockers are back in action on Friday against Houston in a battle at the top of the American Athletic Conference standings. First pitch from Houston is scheduled for 6:30 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683112939460.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of Wichita State Athletics&nbsp;WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;-- Six Wichita State pitchers combined on a five-hit shutout as the Shockers completed the season sweep of Kansas State with a 1-0 win on Tuesday night at Eck Stadium. This is the first time since the 2012 season that the Shockers have swept Kansas State, and the first time since 2003 Wichita State has shutout the Wildcats. The combination of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/matt-boyer/7443">Matt Boyer</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caden-favors/7446">Caden Favors</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/cameron-bye/7444">Cameron Bye</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jace-miner/7449">Jace Miner</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/robert-cranz/7445">Robert Cranz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/nate-snead/7469">Nate Snead</a>&nbsp;limited Kansas State (28-18) to just five singles, but had to pitch out of several key jams throughout the game. The Wildcats put their leadoff man on base in five of nine innings, and three times had runners at first and second with nobody out. Two of those opportunities came in the seventh and eighth innings, with Wichita State still clinging to a 1-0 lead. A single and a walk put two aboard against Cranz in the seventh, but he induced a fly out to left and a double play to preserve the lead. In the eighth, Snead put the first two on via a single and walk, setting the stage for the top of the Kansas State order. He struck out Kyan Lodice attempting to bunt, then got help from a tremendous diving play at shortstop from&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-herring/7462">David Herring</a>, who was able to flip to second base for a force out and the second out of the inning. A stolen base put the go-ahead runners in the scoring position, but Snead got Brendan Jones to bounce out to second to strand both Wildcats. In the ninth, Snead issued a leadoff walk and later wild pitched the runner into scoring position, but retired the next three hitters to secure his third save. Snead struck out Kansas State's Cole Johnson on a full count to end the game.<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/mauricio-millan/7461">Mauricio Millan</a>&nbsp;provided the game's only offense in the bottom of the third, shooting a two-out RBI single up the middle to score&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/garrett-pennington/7468">Garrett Pennington</a>. The run was charged to Wildcats starter Mason Buss (3-2), who allowed five hits and the one run over four innings. Favors (3-4) earned the win for Wichita State with his two scoreless innings of the bullpen, matching that of WSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/matt-boyer/7443">Matt Boyer</a>. Bye, Miner, and Cranz each tossed a shutout inning, highlighted by a 1-2-3 inning from Bye with a pair of strikeouts. <a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/jack-little/7464">Jack Little</a>&nbsp;was the only Shocker to record a multi-hit game, finishing 2-for-4.&nbsp; The Shockers are back in action on Friday against Houston in a battle at the top of the American Athletic Conference standings. First pitch from Houston is scheduled for 6:30 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Shockers shut out Wildcats to complete season sweep

Former Kansas men’s basketball standout Joel Embiid was named the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player, the league announced Tuesday. Embiid had finished runner-up in the NBA MVP voting in each of the two previous seasons.

Embiid is just the second Jayhawk to be named the NBA MVP, joining KU legend Wilt Chamberlain who won the honor four times – 1960, 1966, 1967, and 1968.

A six-time NBA All-Star, Embiid is in his seventh season playing for the Philadelphia 76ers and his ninth season overall with the organization. Embiid, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, played at KU in the 2013-14 season. In addition to his six All-Star games, Embiid is a four-time All-NBA honoree and has been named to the NBA All-Defense Team four times.

Embiid led the 76ers to a 54-28 record and third-place finish in the 2022-23 Eastern Conference regular season. The 76ers are currently in the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Boston Celtics.

On the season, Embiid led the NBA in scoring average at 33.1 points per game. He also finished tied for ninth in the NBA in rebounds per game, tallying 10.2 per contest. In 66 games played in the regular season, Embiid recorded 39 double-doubles. He also shot it efficiently on the season, shooting 54.8% from the field, 33.0% from the 3-point territory, and 85.7% from the free-throw line.

While at Kansas, Embiid played in 28 games and started 20. In his freshman season, the Yaounde, Cameroon native averaged 11.2 points and 8.1 rebounds, while racking in several awards after his season. Embiid was named the 2014 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and was an All Big-12 Second Team selection. He was also named to the 2014 Big 12 Newcomer and Big 12 All-Defense teams.

Embiid set the record for most blocked shots in a single game as a freshman with eight blocked shots in a game against Oklahoma State. He also set the Kansas freshman record for most rebounds per game (8.1), most blocks in a single freshman season (72), and posted the highest field goal percentage in a freshman season at Kansas (62.6%).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683111516150.png" alt="Via KU Sports" />
 <figcaption>Via KU Sports</figcaption>
 </figure>Former Kansas men’s basketball standout Joel Embiid was named the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player, the league announced Tuesday. Embiid had finished runner-up in the NBA MVP voting in each of the two previous seasons.Embiid is just the second Jayhawk to be named the NBA MVP, joining KU legend Wilt Chamberlain who won the honor four times – 1960, 1966, 1967, and 1968.A six-time NBA All-Star, Embiid is in his seventh season playing for the Philadelphia 76ers and his ninth season overall with the organization. Embiid, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, played at KU in the 2013-14 season. In addition to his six All-Star games, Embiid is a four-time All-NBA honoree and has been named to the NBA All-Defense Team four times.Embiid led the 76ers to a 54-28 record and third-place finish in the 2022-23 Eastern Conference regular season. The 76ers are currently in the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the Boston Celtics.On the season, Embiid led the NBA in scoring average at 33.1 points per game. He also finished tied for ninth in the NBA in rebounds per game, tallying 10.2 per contest. In 66 games played in the regular season, Embiid recorded 39 double-doubles. He also shot it efficiently on the season, shooting 54.8% from the field, 33.0% from the 3-point territory, and 85.7% from the free-throw line.While at Kansas, Embiid played in 28 games and started 20. In his freshman season, the Yaounde, Cameroon native averaged 11.2 points and 8.1 rebounds, while racking in several awards after his season. Embiid was named the 2014 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and was an All Big-12 Second Team selection. He was also named to the 2014 Big 12 Newcomer and Big 12 All-Defense teams.Embiid set the record for most blocked shots in a single game as a freshman with eight blocked shots in a game against Oklahoma State. He also set the Kansas freshman record for most rebounds per game (8.1), most blocks in a single freshman season (72), and posted the highest field goal percentage in a freshman season at Kansas (62.6%).<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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;

🏀 Joel Embiid named NBA Most Valuable Player

Via Hutchinson CC Sports Information

Four members of the 2022 Hutchinson Community College volleyball team have signed letters of intent to move onto four-year programs next season.

Setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/serrano_andrea_m5cv">Andrea Serrano</a>&nbsp;has signed to play at Coppin State. Libero&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/harvey_morgan_2ssb">Morgan Harvey</a>&nbsp;will move on to the University of Charleston. Outside hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/connor_sophie_eb64">Sophie Connor</a>&nbsp;will play next season at University of Texas-Tyler. Middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/penaflor_blondie_8wmm">Blondie Penaflor</a>&nbsp;has signed with Lander University.

The 2022 Blue Dragons finished 26-12 this past season, placing third in the Jayhawk Conference and made it to the semifinals of the Region VI Tournament.

With the signings of these four sophomores, Blue Dragon head coach Delice Downing has now moved up eight players to four-year programs in her first three seasons at Hutchinson.

ANDREA SERRANO Serrano is a 5-foot-6 two-year starter from Arecibo Puerto Rico.

She averaged 7.14 assists per set playing over her 66 matches as a Blue Dragon, primarily in a 6-2 offense but was efficient running a 5-1 when asked to.

Serrano was also a top threat from the service line with 68 career aces.

This past season, Serrano averaged 6.99 assists per set with 699 total assists and 40 service aces. Serrano also had 2.07 digs per set. Serrano was named all-KJCCC/all-Region VI in her sophomore season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683110197270.jpeg" alt="(l to r): Blue Dragon volleyball players Blondie Penaflor, Morgan Harvey, Andrea Serrano and Sophie Connor sign four-year letters of intent to play at four-year programs next season. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) " />
 <figcaption>(l to r): Blue Dragon volleyball players Blondie Penaflor, Morgan Harvey, Andrea Serrano and Sophie Connor sign four-year letters of intent to play at four-year programs next season. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information) </figcaption>
 </figure>Via Hutchinson CC Sports InformationFour members of the 2022 Hutchinson Community College volleyball team have signed letters of intent to move onto four-year programs next season.Setter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/serrano_andrea_m5cv">Andrea Serrano</a>&nbsp;has signed to play at Coppin State. Libero&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/harvey_morgan_2ssb">Morgan Harvey</a>&nbsp;will move on to the University of Charleston. Outside hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/connor_sophie_eb64">Sophie Connor</a>&nbsp;will play next season at University of Texas-Tyler. Middle blocker&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2022-23/bios/penaflor_blondie_8wmm">Blondie Penaflor</a>&nbsp;has signed with Lander University.The 2022 Blue Dragons finished 26-12 this past season, placing third in the Jayhawk Conference and made it to the semifinals of the Region VI Tournament.With the signings of these four sophomores, Blue Dragon head coach Delice Downing has now moved up eight players to four-year programs in her first three seasons at Hutchinson.ANDREA SERRANO Serrano is a 5-foot-6 two-year starter from Arecibo Puerto Rico.She averaged 7.14 assists per set playing over her 66 matches as a Blue Dragon, primarily in a 6-2 offense but was efficient running a 5-1 when asked to.Serrano was also a top threat from the service line with 68 career aces.This past season, Serrano averaged 6.99 assists per set with 699 total assists and 40 service aces. Serrano also had 2.07 digs per set. Serrano was named all-KJCCC/all-Region VI in her sophomore season.MORGAN HARVEY Harvey, a 5-8 sophomore from Hoyt, Kansas, made a big position change before her second season with the Blue Dragons, moving from right-side hitter to libero/defensive specialist, a move that shored up the Blue Dragon backline depth in 2022.This past season, Harvey averaged 2.32 digs per set with 17 matches of 10 or more digs and a career-high 24 digs in a five-set victory over Colby.As a freshman, Harvey hit .151 and averaged 1.54 kills per set. She added 50 total blocks as a right-side hitter. Harvey also had 44 career service aces.SOPHIE CONNOR A 5-10 outside hitter from Derby, Kansas, Connor was one of the top offensive threats for the Blue Dragons in both of her seasons at Hutchinson.Over her two-year career, Connor amassed 354 total kills and average 1.91 kills per set, hitting .164. She had 175 kills and a freshman and 179 kills in her sophomore season.Connor made a big improvement in her blocking game in Year No. 2. Connor averaged 0.28 blocks per set as a freshman, but upped that average to 0.53 with 58 total blocks in her sophomore year. Connor also had 38 career service aces and 314 career digs.BLONDIE PENAFLOR Penaflor is a 6-0 sophomore from Las Vegas. She, too, made a position change from a pin hitter to a middle in 2022.This past season, the two-time all-KJCCC/all-Region VI performer, averaged 1.38 kills and 1.20 blocks per set. Penaflor was second in the KJCCC in blocks per set during her sophomore year.Over 72 matches in her Blue Dragon career, Penaflor averaged 1.89 kills on .239 hitting and 0.90 blocks.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile 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; &nbsp;