<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744597503139.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;The Arizona Wildcats put on a dominant offensive performance en route to an 11-1 win over the Kansas Jayhawks Sunday afternoon at Arrocha Ballpark. The 13th-ranked Wildcats improved to 36-7 on the season and 13-5 in Big 12 play, while Kansas dropped to 17-20 overall and 4-10 in conference play. Arizona jumped out to an early lead in the opening inning, scoring five runs on four hits. Kansas wasn't able to get anything going in its first plate appearances, but the Jayhawks got on the scoreboard in the bottom of the second inning. Senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp;launched a home run to left field &mdash; her sixth of the season. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kennedy-diggs/15857">Kennedy Diggs</a>&nbsp;took the mound for the Jayhawks to start the third inning and put together a solid performance against the 13th-ranked team in the country. Diggs threw a scoreless third inning and recorded two strikeouts while allowing three hits on the day. After being honored before the game, senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/katie-brooks/6906">Katie Brooks</a>&nbsp;replaced Diggs in the circle to finish the game for the Jayhawks in the top of the fifth inning. Brooks recorded her 29th strikeout of the season and the 192nd of her career. Kansas was never able to recover from Arizona's dominant first inning and fell 11-1 in the series finale. The Wildcats swept the series 3-0.&nbsp; Pitchers of Record: Win: Devyn Netz (16-4) Line: 3.0 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 0 BB, 0 SO Loss:&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/olivia-bruno/6949">Olivia Bruno</a>&nbsp;(3-3) Line: 2.0 IP, 6&nbsp;R, 7&nbsp;H, 2 BB, 0&nbsp;SO Up Next The Kansas softball team will host Missouri State at Arrocha Ballpark on Tuesday, April 15, at 5 p.m. CT. The game will be streamed live on the ESPN+ platform.&nbsp;
&nbsp;</div>

🥎 KU drops three at No. 13 Arizona

CLEVELAND (AP) — Cole Ragans managed to pitch through a left hamstring cramp for 7 2/3 innings and get his first win this season.

“The hammy started to tighten up and I just didn’t want to push it,” Ragans said after leading the Kansas City Royals over the Cleveland Guardians 4-2 on Sunday.

A 27-year-old left-hander who finished fourth in AL Cy Young Award voting last year, Ragans struck out 10 and walked none while allowing two runs — one earned — and four hits.

Ragans (1-0) felt a nagging pain in his hamstring throughout the game, but it intensified after he got Austin Hedges to pop out for the second out of the eighth inning. Lucas Erceg relieved and got the last out of the inning. Carlos Estévez allowed a leadoff single in the ninth, then struck out three straight batters for his fifth save in six chances.

“You don’t want it to where it turns more serious than it actually is," Ragans said. "There was no reason to keep trying to pitch.”

Kansas City was optimistic Ragans will take his next turn, likely Friday in Detroit.

“He was honest with us throughout the game and was honest with us when he started feeling in more in the eighth inning,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was trying to be smart and not push through it, which was the right thing to do.”

Ragans threw 89 pitches and became the second pitcher in Royals’ history to have 10 or more strikeouts in three consecutive starts after Kevin Appier in 1996.

Cleveland took a 2-0 lead in the second when Daniel Schneemann hit an RBI double and continued home on shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.’s throwing error. Ragans then retired nine straight batters and 17 of his last 18.

Kansas City rallied when Salvador Perez hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning and Maikel Garcia had a two-run double in the fifth.

“I try to get quick outs,” Ragans said. “If I’m filling up the strike zone, then (the hitters) are going to have to swing the bats. I just try to get ahead in the count and stay ahead and trust the guys behind me to make plays. If they are swinging early in the count, it might help you later to get them to chase some pitches.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744583159284.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Cole Ragans managed to pitch through a left hamstring cramp for 7 2/3 innings and get his first win this season.“The hammy started to tighten up and I just didn’t want to push it,” Ragans said after leading the Kansas City Royals over the Cleveland Guardians 4-2 on Sunday.A 27-year-old left-hander who finished fourth in AL Cy Young Award voting last year, Ragans struck out 10 and walked none while allowing two runs — one earned — and four hits.Ragans (1-0) felt a nagging pain in his hamstring throughout the game, but it intensified after he got Austin Hedges to pop out for the second out of the eighth inning. Lucas Erceg relieved and got the last out of the inning. Carlos Estévez allowed a leadoff single in the ninth, then struck out three straight batters for his fifth save in six chances.“You don’t want it to where it turns more serious than it actually is," Ragans said. "There was no reason to keep trying to pitch.”Kansas City was optimistic Ragans will take his next turn, likely Friday in Detroit.“He was honest with us throughout the game and was honest with us when he started feeling in more in the eighth inning,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He was trying to be smart and not push through it, which was the right thing to do.”Ragans threw 89 pitches and became the second pitcher in Royals’ history to have 10 or more strikeouts in three consecutive starts after Kevin Appier in 1996.Cleveland took a 2-0 lead in the second when Daniel Schneemann hit an RBI double and continued home on shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.’s throwing error. Ragans then retired nine straight batters and 17 of his last 18.Kansas City rallied when Salvador Perez hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning and Maikel Garcia had a two-run double in the fifth.“I try to get quick outs,” Ragans said. “If I’m filling up the strike zone, then (the hitters) are going to have to swing the bats. I just try to get ahead in the count and stay ahead and trust the guys behind me to make plays. If they are swinging early in the count, it might help you later to get them to chase some pitches.”

⚾Cole Ragans strikes out 10 as Royals win in Cleveland

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744597876664.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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&nbsp;
 "We're really proud of our guys after Friday night," commented seventh-year head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/pete-hughes/2603" rel="smarttag" rev="2603">Pete Hughes</a></dfn>, who collected his 115th&nbsp;home victory at the helm of K-State baseball. "As a head coach, you want your kids to be tough and toughness is often defined with how you handle adversity." "They got themselves back in the series yesterday and played great with energy out of the gates today," Hughes added. Sheffield turned in his fourth quality start at K-State in improving his record to 5-3, as he scattered two hits to go with five strikeouts and one walk. The Flowood, Miss, product retired 17 consecutive batters before allowing a two-out double in the sixth. "We got a phenomenal start from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/lincoln-sheffield/12332" rel="smarttag" rev="12332">Lincoln Sheffield</a></dfn>, and we all fed off Lincoln's start. That is the storyline of today's game." Antonio Jimenez put an end to the left-hander's scoreless outing, launching a solo homer in the seventh. Sheffield put down of the 21 of the 24 batters he faced in his third seven-inning start of the year. Trailing 8-1, UCF (19-16, 4-1) managed to score six unanswered runs in the final three frames, including four in the ninth to force K-State to make its second pitching change of the inning. With two outs, the Wildcats called&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/james-guyette/12295" rel="smarttag" rev="12295">James Guyette</a></dfn>&nbsp;to the bump, where the right-hander used four pitches to strike out the final batter and pick up his second save. "For sure a great series win for our program. It is difficult to win series in the Big 12, and we just saw how difficult it is to win games in the Big 12. Games are never over." Six different players contributed a hit in the win with multi-hit efforts from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/keegan-o-connor/12317" rel="smarttag" rev="12317">Keegan O'Connor</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/dee-kennedy/12308" rel="smarttag" rev="12308">Dee Kennedy</a></dfn>. O'Connor, who went 3-for-3 with two RBI and three runs scored, finished a triple short of completing the cycle. Kennedy produced a game-high three RBI with a three-run blast in the second. With two home runs in the series finale by O'Connor and Kennedy, the Cats brought their season total to 61, registering their 19th&nbsp;game with two or more. In front of three consecutive sold-out crowds, the Wildcats ended the weekend hitting .300 as a team with seven extra-base hits, including four doubles in the finale. "I can't talk enough about the support that this program, and really every program at Kansas State receives, that's why it's a special place. The support we get from this community, it's beyond description. I told our kids today, don't ever take for granted what we play in front of every day, because it's unique and they are a part of it." HOW IT HAPPENED Sheffield retired six consecutive batters to build momentum in the home dugout, as the Wildcats spotted the Knights' starter Wiley Hartley (4-1) for three runs in the second. O'Connor and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/kyan-lodice/12298" rel="smarttag" rev="12298">Kyan Lodice</a></dfn>&nbsp;were each issued a walk to bring Kennedy to the plate, who hit in the seventh spot on the day. After a mound visit from UCF's head coach, the sophomore third baseman launched the second pitch he faced 410-feet over the wall in center to clear the bases. O'Connor extended the Cats' lead to four with a solo shot in the fourth &ndash; his ninth of the year. The Wildcats exploded for four runs in the fifth, as four different players doubled in the inning. O'Connor, who doubled to record his 11th&nbsp;multi-hit, took advantage of a failed pick off attempt and scored to make it 8-0. After five hitless innings, Sheffield's perfect outing came to an end in the top of the sixth, as a call was overturned awarding a double to UCF's Kendry Maduro. The hander issued a walk to move Maduro into scoring position but immediately bounced back with his fifth strikeout of the game. &nbsp; Trailing 8-0, Jimenez ended the Knights' drought with his solo shot out to right field, igniting a late six-run rally over the final three innings. With the tying run on second in the ninth, Guyette fanned the final batter to secure the series win. INSIDE THE BOX
<ul>
<li>K-State scored eight runs on nine hits, committed two errors, and stranded four on base.</li>
<li>UCF scored six runs on eight hits with two errors committed, and leaving four runners on base.</li>
<li>Sheffield (5-3) picked up the win, surrendering one run over his seven-inning start. He scattered two hits in the outing with one walk and five strikeouts.</li>
<li>Guyette was credited with his second save of the year.</li>
<li>Hartley (4-1) was tagged for his first loss, surrendering four earned runs on three hits in three innings.</li>
<li>O'Connor went 3-for-3 with two RBI and three runs scored while Kennedy (2-for-4) drove in a game-leading three RBI.</li>
<li>Slack was spotted for five earned runs in 1 &frac12; innings of work.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
TEAM NOTES
<ul>
<li>With the win, K-State knotted the all-time series, 3-3, with a 2-1 edge in games played in Manhattan.</li>
<li>K-State ties third in the league standings alongside Arizona.</li>
<li>Sunday's win secured K-State's fifth overall series win, improving to 5-1 over.</li>
<li>K-State has homered in 27 of 35 games this season, averaging 1.74 per game.</li>
<li>The Cats are 18-1 when producing two or more homers in a game.</li>
<li>Sunday's contest marked K-State's first rubber match of the season.</li>
</ul>
UP NEXT K-State will head to Boston, Mass., to start off a five-game road trip with a pair of contests at Northeastern (April 15-16), before returning for the Dillons Sunflower Showdown against Kansas starting Friday, April 18 in Lawrence. K-State baseball single-game tickets are available, and can be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a name="_Hlk192492882"></a>KStateSports.com, call 1-800-221-CATS (2287), or stopping by the K-State Athletics Ticket Office in Bramlage Coliseum.</div>

⚾ K-State drops UCF Sunday to win series

CLEVELAND (AP) — Luis Ortiz allowed just one hit and struck out a career-high 10 in his home debut for Cleveland as the Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 6-3 on Saturday night to extend their winning streak to five games.

Ortiz (1-2) had his second straight strong outing, giving up just a home run in the fourth inning to Vinnie Pasquantino before leaving after 5 2/3 innings. The right-hander was acquired in December from Pittsburgh.

Gabriel Arias homered and José Ramírez hit a sacrifice fly off Mike Lorenzen (1-2) as the Guardians remained unbeaten at home. Arias connected in the sixth inning. He has three homers this season — all against Kansas City.

The Royals entered the ninth with just two hits before getting four straight singles and scoring twice against Guardians All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, who hasn't been himself through the season's first two weeks.

Ortiz held Kansas City hitless until the fourth when Pasquantino drove a pitch over the wall in right-center with one out. It was Pasquantino's second homer and only the seventh in 2025 for the Royals, who came in tied with Toronto for the fewest in the majors.

Arias drove in Cleveland's first run with a single in the fourth. He has five RBIs in the last two games.

After giving up a one-out walk in the sixth while leading 2-1, Ortiz got a favorable called third strike from plate umpire Manny Gonzalez on an outside pitch to whiff Royals star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. for the second time.

The Guardians are 5-0 at home for the first time since 2002, when they opened 7-0 in Progressive Field.

Royals LHP Cole Ragans (0-0, 2.81) had 11 strikeouts last week against Minnesota. He'll start the series finale against Cleveland's Ben Lively (0-1, 4.40), who got a no-decision against Kansas City in the season opener.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Luis Ortiz allowed just one hit and struck out a career-high 10 in his home debut for Cleveland as the Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 6-3 on Saturday night to extend their winning streak to five games.Ortiz (1-2) had his second straight strong outing, giving up just a home run in the fourth inning to Vinnie Pasquantino before leaving after 5 2/3 innings. The right-hander was acquired in December from Pittsburgh.Gabriel Arias homered and José Ramírez hit a sacrifice fly off Mike Lorenzen (1-2) as the Guardians remained unbeaten at home. Arias connected in the sixth inning. He has three homers this season — all against Kansas City.The Royals entered the ninth with just two hits before getting four straight singles and scoring twice against Guardians All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase, who hasn't been himself through the season's first two weeks.Ortiz held Kansas City hitless until the fourth when Pasquantino drove a pitch over the wall in right-center with one out. It was Pasquantino's second homer and only the seventh in 2025 for the Royals, who came in tied with Toronto for the fewest in the majors.Arias drove in Cleveland's first run with a single in the fourth. He has five RBIs in the last two games.<h2>Key moment</h2>After giving up a one-out walk in the sixth while leading 2-1, Ortiz got a favorable called third strike from plate umpire Manny Gonzalez on an outside pitch to whiff Royals star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. for the second time.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Guardians are 5-0 at home for the first time since 2002, when they opened 7-0 in Progressive Field.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals LHP Cole Ragans (0-0, 2.81) had 11 strikeouts last week against Minnesota. He'll start the series finale against Cleveland's Ben Lively (0-1, 4.40), who got a no-decision against Kansas City in the season opener.

⚾ Ortiz strikes out career-high 10 as Guardians beat the Royals 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team split an Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division I doubleheader with Valley Center on Friday evening at Hobart-Detter Field.

The Salthawks lost the first game, 11-8, before bouncing back to win Game 2, 12-8.

Hutchinson is now 6-4 on the season and will travel to Maize South on Tuesday. Valley Center is now 6-6 on the year and will host Derby on Tuesday.

Game 1 — Valley Center 11, Hutchinson 8

A four-run lead wasn’t enough for the Hutchinson Salthawks, who fell 11-8 to Valley Center after a seventh-inning surge by the Hornets on Friday.

Hutchinson built an 8-4 lead after Cole Bleything tripled in three runs in the fifth inning and later scored on a balk. But Valley Center responded with five runs on five hits in the top of the seventh to take control. Doc Needham’s two-run single capped the comeback.

Gavin Saner opened the scoring for Valley Center with an RBI single in the first. The Hornets added a run in the second on an Austin Saner single. Hutchinson answered with a three-run second inning, highlighted by Caiden Beavers’ two-run single and an error that allowed another run to score.

Beavers finished 2-for-4 at the plate and also stole two bases. Bleything drove in a team-high two runs. Carter Morgan and Beavers each swiped multiple bases, helping Hutchinson finish with six steals and six walks.

Beavers took the loss in relief, allowing three unearned runs in two-thirds of an inning. Starter Jack Davis pitched five innings, allowing one earned run and striking out five. Valley Center’s Brodie Saner earned the win, tossing three innings and striking out four.

Valley Center - 210 102 5 - 11 10 3 Hutchinson - 130 040 0 - 8 5 4 W: Bryson Saner. L: Caiden Beavers. Time: 2:28.

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Game 2 — Hutchinson 12, Valley Center 8

Hutchinson High School used a seven-run fourth inning to pull away from Valley Center in a 12-8 win on Friday.

After falling behind early, the Salthawks rallied in the bottom of the third to take a 3-2 lead behind a steal of home by Caiden Beavers and an RBI single by Jack Davis. Valley Center responded in the top of the fourth, reclaiming a 4-3 lead on a Cooper Boone RBI single and a fielder’s choice groundout from Braden Hietsman.

But Hutchinson erupted in the bottom half of the inning. Jack Yoder drove in two with a single, Beavers added an RBI triple, and Cole Bleything brought in another run on a fielder’s choice. The rally gave Hutchinson an 8-5 lead, and they never trailed again.

JuJu Lyons earned the win for the Salthawks, allowing five runs—four earned—on seven hits in five innings while striking out four. Landon Parks threw two innings of relief. Jacob Morton took the loss for Valley Center, giving up eight runs (five earned) on seven hits over four innings.

Beavers and Lyons each collected three hits for Hutchinson. Beavers also stole two bases and scored twice. Yoder drove in three runs, while Carter Morgan added two hits. The Salthawks finished with 12 hits and six stolen bases as a team.

Valley Center - 300 200 3 - 8 8 4 Hutchinson - 022 404 x - 12 12 3 W: JuJu Lyons. L: Jacob Morton. Time: 2:13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744414402627.jpeg" alt="Cole Bleything delivers a pitch in the first game of a doubleheader between Hutchinson High School and Valley Center High School on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kan. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Cole Bleything delivers a pitch in the first game of a doubleheader between Hutchinson High School and Valley Center High School on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Hobart-Detter Field in Hutchinson, Kan. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team split an Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division I doubleheader with Valley Center on Friday evening at Hobart-Detter Field.The Salthawks lost the first game, 11-8, before bouncing back to win Game 2, 12-8.Hutchinson is now 6-4 on the season and will travel to Maize South on Tuesday. Valley Center is now 6-6 on the year and will host Derby on Tuesday.Game 1 — Valley Center 11, Hutchinson 8A four-run lead wasn’t enough for the Hutchinson Salthawks, who fell 11-8 to Valley Center after a seventh-inning surge by the Hornets on Friday.Hutchinson built an 8-4 lead after Cole Bleything tripled in three runs in the fifth inning and later scored on a balk. But Valley Center responded with five runs on five hits in the top of the seventh to take control. Doc Needham’s two-run single capped the comeback.Gavin Saner opened the scoring for Valley Center with an RBI single in the first. The Hornets added a run in the second on an Austin Saner single. Hutchinson answered with a three-run second inning, highlighted by Caiden Beavers’ two-run single and an error that allowed another run to score.Beavers finished 2-for-4 at the plate and also stole two bases. Bleything drove in a team-high two runs. Carter Morgan and Beavers each swiped multiple bases, helping Hutchinson finish with six steals and six walks.Beavers took the loss in relief, allowing three unearned runs in two-thirds of an inning. Starter Jack Davis pitched five innings, allowing one earned run and striking out five. Valley Center’s Brodie Saner earned the win, tossing three innings and striking out four.Valley Center - 210 102 5 - 11 10 3 Hutchinson - 130 040 0 - 8 5 4 W: Bryson Saner. L: Caiden Beavers. Time: 2:28.-----------------------------------------------------------------------Game 2 — Hutchinson 12, Valley Center 8Hutchinson High School used a seven-run fourth inning to pull away from Valley Center in a 12-8 win on Friday.After falling behind early, the Salthawks rallied in the bottom of the third to take a 3-2 lead behind a steal of home by Caiden Beavers and an RBI single by Jack Davis. Valley Center responded in the top of the fourth, reclaiming a 4-3 lead on a Cooper Boone RBI single and a fielder’s choice groundout from Braden Hietsman.But Hutchinson erupted in the bottom half of the inning. Jack Yoder drove in two with a single, Beavers added an RBI triple, and Cole Bleything brought in another run on a fielder’s choice. The rally gave Hutchinson an 8-5 lead, and they never trailed again.JuJu Lyons earned the win for the Salthawks, allowing five runs—four earned—on seven hits in five innings while striking out four. Landon Parks threw two innings of relief. Jacob Morton took the loss for Valley Center, giving up eight runs (five earned) on seven hits over four innings.Beavers and Lyons each collected three hits for Hutchinson. Beavers also stole two bases and scored twice. Yoder drove in three runs, while Carter Morgan added two hits. The Salthawks finished with 12 hits and six stolen bases as a team.Valley Center - 300 200 3 - 8 8 4 Hutchinson - 022 404 x - 12 12 3 W: JuJu Lyons. L: Jacob Morton. Time: 2:13.

⚾ Salthawks split doubleheader with Hornets

CLEVELAND (AP) — Gabriel Arias had three hits — including a three-run homer — Angel Martínez had his second career three-hit game and the Cleveland Guardians extended their winning streak to four, beating the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Friday night.

Five Cleveland pitchers combined for the second shutout of the homestand. Tim Herrin (2-0) got the win after starter Tanner Bibee went 4 1/3 innings.

Arias snapped an 0 for 15 skid with a base hit in the second inning. He then connected on a first-pitch fastball from Royals' starter Kris Bubic (0-1) in the fourth inning and put it into the stands in right-center for his second homer of the season.

The three runs were the first earned runs Bubic had allowed in 26 2/3 innings dating to last season.

Martínez, called up from Triple A Columbus on Wednesday, also had a sacrifice fly in a four-run eighth inning to drive in Nolan Jones. Steven Kwan and Carlos Santana added RBI singles and Brayan Rocchio scored from second base after Royals' second baseman Jonathan India had a fly ball by José Ramírez pop out of his glove. It was India's second error of the game.

Kyle Manzardo was safe at second base when the throw by India after fielding Jhonkensy Noel’s grounder was wide and pulled Michael Massey off the bag. That put runners at first and second when Arias came up.

Cleveland's starting pitchers have posted a 1.42 ERA in the team's last five games and have given up only four earned runs in 25 1/3 innings. The Guardians' rotation had a 7.05 ERA in their first eight games.

Kansas City right-hander Michael Lorenzen (1-1, 3.18 ERA), who reached 10 years of major-league service on Tuesday, faces Cleveland right-hander Luis Ortiz (0-2, 8.44 ERA) in the middle game of the series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744426314387.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Hunter Renfroe (16) reacts in front of Cleveland Guardians' Austin Hedges, left, after being called out on strikes in the fourth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Friday, April 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Hunter Renfroe (16) reacts in front of Cleveland Guardians' Austin Hedges, left, after being called out on strikes in the fourth inning of a baseball game in Cleveland, Friday, April 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Gabriel Arias had three hits — including a three-run homer — Angel Martínez had his second career three-hit game and the Cleveland Guardians extended their winning streak to four, beating the Kansas City Royals 7-0 on Friday night.Five Cleveland pitchers combined for the second shutout of the homestand. Tim Herrin (2-0) got the win after starter Tanner Bibee went 4 1/3 innings.Arias snapped an 0 for 15 skid with a base hit in the second inning. He then connected on a first-pitch fastball from Royals' starter Kris Bubic (0-1) in the fourth inning and put it into the stands in right-center for his second homer of the season.The three runs were the first earned runs Bubic had allowed in 26 2/3 innings dating to last season.Martínez, called up from Triple A Columbus on Wednesday, also had a sacrifice fly in a four-run eighth inning to drive in Nolan Jones. Steven Kwan and Carlos Santana added RBI singles and Brayan Rocchio scored from second base after Royals' second baseman Jonathan India had a fly ball by José Ramírez pop out of his glove. It was India's second error of the game.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kyle Manzardo was safe at second base when the throw by India after fielding Jhonkensy Noel’s grounder was wide and pulled Michael Massey off the bag. That put runners at first and second when Arias came up.<h2>Key stat</h2>Cleveland's starting pitchers have posted a 1.42 ERA in the team's last five games and have given up only four earned runs in 25 1/3 innings. The Guardians' rotation had a 7.05 ERA in their first eight games.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City right-hander Michael Lorenzen (1-1, 3.18 ERA), who reached 10 years of major-league service on Tuesday, faces Cleveland right-hander Luis Ortiz (0-2, 8.44 ERA) in the middle game of the series.

⚾ Arias 3-run homer helps Guardians shut out the Royals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team will host the Valley Center Hornets at Hobart-Detter Field for an AVCTL DI doubleheader.

First pitch of Game 1 is at 4 p.m. with Game 2 to follow.

The Salthawks are 5-3 on the season and have won four straight games, while the Hornets are 5-5 and winners of three straight.

Click below to listen to the broadcast of both games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744390458687.png" alt="Game Day vs Valley Center @ Hobart-Detter on Hutchpost.com" />
 <figcaption>Game Day vs Valley Center @ Hobart-Detter on Hutchpost.com</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team will host the Valley Center Hornets at Hobart-Detter Field for an AVCTL DI doubleheader.First pitch of Game 1 is at 4 p.m. with Game 2 to follow.The Salthawks are 5-3 on the season and have won four straight games, while the Hornets are 5-5 and winners of three straight.Click below to listen to the broadcast of both games.<div><iframe src="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/embed" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="200px" width="100%"></iframe><a href="https://mixlr.com/" style="color:#1a1a1a;display:block;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:11px;text-align:left;padding: 4px 0;">Eagle Media Sports - Hutchpost Sports is on Mixlr</a></div>

⚾ Hutch High hosts Valley Center

<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

The Hutchinson High School girls soccer team continues it's strong start to the season, as the Salthawks won their sixth straight game on Thursday evening at Salina Central, 8-0.

With the win, the Salthawks improve to 6-1 on the season.

The Salthawks have outscored their first seven opponents, 24-4, and have shutout their opponents in four of it's six wins.

The lone loss for Hutch High was in the season opener at Andover Central, 1-0. Since the loss, the Salthawks have defeated Buhler, Wichita Classical School, Emporia, Wichita East, Newton and Salina Central.

Entering Thursday's game, Rhyan Galyon led the Salthawks with eight goals scored and two assists, while Azul Maciel is right behind with six goals and two assists. Lily Rodriguez and Ayla Booe each have a goal apiece.&nbsp;

Hutch High will travel to Eisenhower on Tuesday to face the Tigers. The next home match for the Salthawks will be Tuesday, April 22, against Valley Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744379233057.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson High School Soccer" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson High School Soccer</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostThe Hutchinson High School girls soccer team continues it's strong start to the season, as the Salthawks won their sixth straight game on Thursday evening at Salina Central, 8-0.With the win, the Salthawks improve to 6-1 on the season.The Salthawks have outscored their first seven opponents, 24-4, and have shutout their opponents in four of it's six wins.The lone loss for Hutch High was in the season opener at Andover Central, 1-0. Since the loss, the Salthawks have defeated Buhler, Wichita Classical School, Emporia, Wichita East, Newton and Salina Central.Entering Thursday's game, Rhyan Galyon led the Salthawks with eight goals scored and two assists, while Azul Maciel is right behind with six goals and two assists. Lily Rodriguez and Ayla Booe each have a goal apiece.&nbsp;Hutch High will travel to Eisenhower on Tuesday to face the Tigers. The next home match for the Salthawks will be Tuesday, April 22, against Valley Center.

⚽ Salthawks shutout Mustangs for sixth straight win

McPHERSON, Kan. — Buhler High School senior Drew DeMeyer earned medalist honors, and the Crusaders finished second as a team Thursday at the McPherson Invitational boys golf tournament at Turkey Creek Golf Course.

DeMeyer carded a 1-over-par 73 to win the individual title. Buhler posted a team score of 320, just two strokes behind team champion Salina Sacred Heart, which finished with a 318.

Zach Chance shot 79 to place seventh, and Nick Chance followed closely with an 80 to take eighth. James Dingler (88) and Brennan Geilenfeldt (89) also contributed for Buhler.

Hutchinson High School placed seventh with a 355. Senior Mitchell Rice tied for third individually with a 77. Landyn Powell (90), Maks Dreiling (93), Alex Haas (95) and Tate England (100) rounded out the Salthawks’ scoring.

Sterling High finished 10th with a 375. Cameron Morris led the Black Bears with an 86, tying for 22nd place. Wyatt Newberry shot 91, Lane Weigel added a 96 and Waylon Schmidt finished with a 102.

Host McPherson took fourth with a 347, while Newton placed 11th at 388.

Salina Sacred Heart placed four individuals in the top 10 to capture the team title.

The meet featured 14 teams from across central Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744378431803.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostMcPHERSON, Kan. — Buhler High School senior Drew DeMeyer earned medalist honors, and the Crusaders finished second as a team Thursday at the McPherson Invitational boys golf tournament at Turkey Creek Golf Course.DeMeyer carded a 1-over-par 73 to win the individual title. Buhler posted a team score of 320, just two strokes behind team champion Salina Sacred Heart, which finished with a 318.Zach Chance shot 79 to place seventh, and Nick Chance followed closely with an 80 to take eighth. James Dingler (88) and Brennan Geilenfeldt (89) also contributed for Buhler.Hutchinson High School placed seventh with a 355. Senior Mitchell Rice tied for third individually with a 77. Landyn Powell (90), Maks Dreiling (93), Alex Haas (95) and Tate England (100) rounded out the Salthawks’ scoring.Sterling High finished 10th with a 375. Cameron Morris led the Black Bears with an 86, tying for 22nd place. Wyatt Newberry shot 91, Lane Weigel added a 96 and Waylon Schmidt finished with a 102.Host McPherson took fourth with a 347, while Newton placed 11th at 388.Salina Sacred Heart placed four individuals in the top 10 to capture the team title.<h2>Top local individual finishers</h2><ul>
 <li>Drew DeMeyer, Buhler – 1st (73)
</li><li>Mitchell Rice, Hutchinson – Tied 3rd (77)
</li><li>Zach Chance, Buhler – 7th (79)
</li><li>Nick Chance, Buhler – 8th (80)
</li><li>Cameron Morris, Sterling – Tied 22nd (86)
</li>
 </ul>The meet featured 14 teams from across central Kansas.

⛳ Buhler’s DeMeyer wins McPherson Invitational; Crusaders place second

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744379889211.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (April 10, 2025)&mdash;The Wichita Wind Surge took a 3-2 victory over the Midland RockHounds at Equity Bank Park. After trailing 2-0 heading into the bottom of the first, the pitching staff gave up just one hit over the final eight innings, while the offense came together to get ahead.
Henry Bolte sent one right back up the middle for an RBI single in the top of the first. The RockHounds loaded the bases later in the frame, and then Carter Aldrete singled off the umpire lined up in front of shortstop, who ruled everyone move up a base for a 2-0 Midland lead.
While Wichita&rsquo;s starting pitcher,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/chase-chaney-681116">Chase Chaney</a>, and long reliever&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/john-klein-804619">John Klein</a>&nbsp;kept the RockHounds off the board, the Wind Surge responded in the bottom of the fifth. First,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kyler-fedko-693459">Kyler Fedko</a>&nbsp;ran in to score on an infield error off of the bat of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/tanner-schobel-802355">Tanner Schobel</a>. The following batter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ben-ross-805346">Ben Ross</a>, lined an opposite-field single to right field to tie the game at 2-2.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1910501333733429627&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-comeback-over-rockhounds-behind-fedko-s-three-hit-night&amp;sessionId=404031f8208a01f8752f1d77220c0ad9e7d8883b&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1910501333733429627"></iframe></div>
In the bottom of the sixth, Fedko doubled to left field for Wichita&rsquo;s first lead of the night at 3-2. The double was the second two-bagger of the game for Fedko and his third hit overall.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1910509562437788130&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-comeback-over-rockhounds-behind-fedko-s-three-hit-night&amp;sessionId=404031f8208a01f8752f1d77220c0ad9e7d8883b&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1910509562437788130"></iframe></div>
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/john-stankiewicz-694496">John Stankiewicz</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/cody-laweryson-689520">Cody Laweryson</a>&nbsp;shut down Midland over the final three innings, striking out three batters in that span. Klein earned his first win of the season after striking out five hitters with one walk over three no-hit innings of relief.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Before tonight&rsquo;s game, Christian MacLeod and Pierson Ohl began rehab assignments with Single-A Fort Myers.</li>
<li>The 11 strikeouts are the most by the Wind Surge pitching staff in a game this season, beating the 10 in the series opener on April 8, 2025.</li>
<li>Kyler Fedko&rsquo;s 3 RBIs are his highest recorded in a game with Wichita. His 3 hits tie his Wind Surge career-high on May 22, 2024, vs. San Antonio.</li>
<li>Tonight&rsquo;s win is the first come-from-behind victory for Wichita this season.</li>
<li>After the save tonight, Cody Laweryson is one away from tying his season-high for saves in a season with the Wind Surge (3, 2024).</li>
</ul>
The Wind Surge continue their series against the Midland RockHounds tomorrow, Friday, April 11, at 6:35 PM, on Professional Wrestling Night at Equity Bank Park. Show off your best wrestling costume to win prizes, and stick around for the best fireworks show in Kansas! You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge earns comeback win over RockHounds

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Justin Rose did more than just match his best score at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-golf-482c1a8e44c45b9e8a8477c45354536e">the Masters</a>.

With a round that was nearly nine shots better than the field Thursday, the 44-year-old Rose managed to steal the spotlight from the Masters dominance of Scottie Scheffler and the endless quest of Rory McIlroy to complete the career Grand Slam.

Rose felt his 7-under 65 had the potential to be something special. And even with a bogey on the final hole, it was every bit of that.

He opened with three straight birdies. He ran off three in a row around the turn. And he wound up with a three-shot lead over Scheffler, Ludvig Aberg and Corey Conners.

“When I have been playing well, I feel like I have been competing at a high level,” Rose said. “My consistency maybe has not been as high this year. But my good is good again. So I’m excited about that.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-scottie-scheffler-augusta-national-642846f37dacd0052b858b318eca8f1d">Scheffler did his part</a>&nbsp;in his bid to win a third Masters green jacket in four years, playing a bogey-free round of 68.

McIlroy, so desperate to win this major and complete the career Grand Slam, was right there with him until the end. He took a pair of double bogeys late in the afternoon with careless mistakes and had to settle for a 72. It was the seventh straight time he failed to break 70 in the opening round of the Masters.

He declined to speak to the media after his round.

Rose set one Masters record: The fifth time he has had at least a share of the 18-hole lead, breaking the mark held by Jack Nicklaus. The glaring difference, of course, is Nicklaus has six of those green jackets.

It also was the eighth time Rose has had at least a share of the lead after any round at Augusta National, something only five others have done. All are Masters champions.

“I feel like I’ve played well enough to win this tournament,” said Rose, whose best chance was a playoff loss to Sergio Garcia in 2017. “I just feel like I don’t have the jacket to prove it. ... But you’ve got to be playing the golf to keep creating those opportunities, and the only way to do that is to get your name on the leaderboard. I definitely don’t shy away from it.”

Rose opened with a 25-foot birdie putt and made his eighth birdie with a 20-foot putt on the par-3 16th. In between was a series of good shots — smart shots — that gave him plenty of chances and he converted most of them.

Augusta National, soaked by rain that washed out most of the Monday practice round, already was getting scary fast.

The average score was 73.6. Only six players broke 70, and 20 others broke par.

“Ridiculous. That’s nuts,” Viktor Hovland said about Rose's score. “Those greens are so firm. I remember a few years ago — I can’t remember what year it was — but he kind of did something similar. I think this one is probably a little bit more impressive because out of all the Masters I’ve played, this is probably the firmest it’s been on a Thursday. It’s definitely no joke out there.”

Scheffler was 3 under at the turn, including one birdie on the par-5 eighth in which his ball was deep in a divot hole short of the green. He managed to get that out some 20 feet left of the pin and used the slope to bring it back to 15 feet and made the putt.

“I struggled for what felt like two pars today,” Scheffler said “But other than that, the golf course was in front of me most of the day, kept the ball in play, did a lot of really good things out there.”

U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and Tyrrell Hatton carried the LIV Golf flag, both at 69. DeChambeau had seven birdies in his up-and-down day, a show of his scoring power.

“Making some bogeys for me probably frees me up a little bit and says, you know what? Just go out and play some golf,” DeChambeau said.

The roars came early, along with a few shockers.

Fred Couples, who wondered a month ago if at 65 with a creaky back he would still be welcomed to play, became only the second player that age to break par.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheMasters/status/1910386911371288697">Couples holed out</a>&nbsp;from the fairway on the 14th with a 6-iron hybrid on his way to a 71. Tom Watson was also 65 — by 28 days he is still the oldest — when he shot 71 in 2015.

The horror show belonged to Nick Dunlap, a 21-year-old who last year won on the PGA Tour as an amateur. This must have felt like amateur hour when he made double bogey on the final hole for a 90. It was the highest score since Ben Crenshaw shot 91 in 2015 at ag 63.

Hideki Matsuyama might have caught the worst break when his approach into the par-5 13th hit the pin and caromed into the tributary of Rae's Creek. The wildest day belonged to Nicolai Hojgaard — one eagle, five birdies, four pars, five bogeys and three double bogeys. Do the math and that comes out to 76.

“It's mentally draining playing a round like this,” Hojgaard said.

And then there was McIlroy, chipping into the water from behind the 15th green for double bogey, and then going long on the 17th and compounding that mistake with a three-putt for another double bogey.

Far more blissful on a warm spring day was Rose, who at one point had it going so well that he felt like a pitcher throwing a no-hitter.

He pitched to 6 feet for birdie on the par-5 eighth. He hit wedge to the ninth and used the slope to set up a 5-foot birdie, giving him a career-low 31 on the front nine. That was followed by a 12-foot birdie putt.

“That's when the day felt a bit different. That’s when I felt I was doing something potentially more on the special side,” Rose said.

And then he really began to pull away from the field with a smart pitch away from the water to set up a 10-foot birdie on the 15th,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheMasters/status/1910439648578486394">followed by the 20-foot birdie on the 16th</a>. The pins on the final two holes allowed for birdies and Rose was thinking super special. He got par-bogey instead that didn't ruin his mood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744338031442.jpeg" alt="Justin Rose waves after making a putt on the 18th hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)" />
 <figcaption>Justin Rose waves after making a putt on the 18th hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)</figcaption>
 </figure>AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Justin Rose did more than just match his best score at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-golf-482c1a8e44c45b9e8a8477c45354536e">the Masters</a>.With a round that was nearly nine shots better than the field Thursday, the 44-year-old Rose managed to steal the spotlight from the Masters dominance of Scottie Scheffler and the endless quest of Rory McIlroy to complete the career Grand Slam.Rose felt his 7-under 65 had the potential to be something special. And even with a bogey on the final hole, it was every bit of that.He opened with three straight birdies. He ran off three in a row around the turn. And he wound up with a three-shot lead over Scheffler, Ludvig Aberg and Corey Conners.“When I have been playing well, I feel like I have been competing at a high level,” Rose said. “My consistency maybe has not been as high this year. But my good is good again. So I’m excited about that.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-scottie-scheffler-augusta-national-642846f37dacd0052b858b318eca8f1d">Scheffler did his part</a>&nbsp;in his bid to win a third Masters green jacket in four years, playing a bogey-free round of 68.McIlroy, so desperate to win this major and complete the career Grand Slam, was right there with him until the end. He took a pair of double bogeys late in the afternoon with careless mistakes and had to settle for a 72. It was the seventh straight time he failed to break 70 in the opening round of the Masters.He declined to speak to the media after his round.Rose set one Masters record: The fifth time he has had at least a share of the 18-hole lead, breaking the mark held by Jack Nicklaus. The glaring difference, of course, is Nicklaus has six of those green jackets.It also was the eighth time Rose has had at least a share of the lead after any round at Augusta National, something only five others have done. All are Masters champions.“I feel like I’ve played well enough to win this tournament,” said Rose, whose best chance was a playoff loss to Sergio Garcia in 2017. “I just feel like I don’t have the jacket to prove it. ... But you’ve got to be playing the golf to keep creating those opportunities, and the only way to do that is to get your name on the leaderboard. I definitely don’t shy away from it.”Rose opened with a 25-foot birdie putt and made his eighth birdie with a 20-foot putt on the par-3 16th. In between was a series of good shots — smart shots — that gave him plenty of chances and he converted most of them.Augusta National, soaked by rain that washed out most of the Monday practice round, already was getting scary fast.The average score was 73.6. Only six players broke 70, and 20 others broke par.“Ridiculous. That’s nuts,” Viktor Hovland said about Rose's score. “Those greens are so firm. I remember a few years ago — I can’t remember what year it was — but he kind of did something similar. I think this one is probably a little bit more impressive because out of all the Masters I’ve played, this is probably the firmest it’s been on a Thursday. It’s definitely no joke out there.”Scheffler was 3 under at the turn, including one birdie on the par-5 eighth in which his ball was deep in a divot hole short of the green. He managed to get that out some 20 feet left of the pin and used the slope to bring it back to 15 feet and made the putt.He was rarely under stress.“I struggled for what felt like two pars today,” Scheffler said “But other than that, the golf course was in front of me most of the day, kept the ball in play, did a lot of really good things out there.”U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and Tyrrell Hatton carried the LIV Golf flag, both at 69. DeChambeau had seven birdies in his up-and-down day, a show of his scoring power.“Making some bogeys for me probably frees me up a little bit and says, you know what? Just go out and play some golf,” DeChambeau said.The roars came early, along with a few shockers.Fred Couples, who wondered a month ago if at 65 with a creaky back he would still be welcomed to play, became only the second player that age to break par.&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheMasters/status/1910386911371288697">Couples holed out</a>&nbsp;from the fairway on the 14th with a 6-iron hybrid on his way to a 71. Tom Watson was also 65 — by 28 days he is still the oldest — when he shot 71 in 2015.The horror show belonged to Nick Dunlap, a 21-year-old who last year won on the PGA Tour as an amateur. This must have felt like amateur hour when he made double bogey on the final hole for a 90. It was the highest score since Ben Crenshaw shot 91 in 2015 at ag 63.Hideki Matsuyama might have caught the worst break when his approach into the par-5 13th hit the pin and caromed into the tributary of Rae's Creek. The wildest day belonged to Nicolai Hojgaard — one eagle, five birdies, four pars, five bogeys and three double bogeys. Do the math and that comes out to 76.“It's mentally draining playing a round like this,” Hojgaard said.And then there was McIlroy, chipping into the water from behind the 15th green for double bogey, and then going long on the 17th and compounding that mistake with a three-putt for another double bogey.Far more blissful on a warm spring day was Rose, who at one point had it going so well that he felt like a pitcher throwing a no-hitter.He pitched to 6 feet for birdie on the par-5 eighth. He hit wedge to the ninth and used the slope to set up a 5-foot birdie, giving him a career-low 31 on the front nine. That was followed by a 12-foot birdie putt.“That's when the day felt a bit different. That’s when I felt I was doing something potentially more on the special side,” Rose said.And then he really began to pull away from the field with a smart pitch away from the water to set up a 10-foot birdie on the 15th,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/TheMasters/status/1910439648578486394">followed by the 20-foot birdie on the 16th</a>. The pins on the final two holes allowed for birdies and Rose was thinking super special. He got par-bogey instead that didn't ruin his mood.

⛳️ Justin Rose steals the Masters show and builds 3-shot lead over Scottie Scheffler

Glen Grunwald visits with Kristi Roper and Rob Dreher visits with Chris Young.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726138917283.jpeg" alt="Reno County Coaches Corner and More Show&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Coaches Corner and More Show&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Glen Grunwald visits with Kristi Roper and Rob Dreher visits with Chris Young.<div><iframe title="Reno County Coaches Show & More" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bwxkv-1878f45-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Reno County Coaches Show and More (Kristi Roper, Chris Young)

Kansas City, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking sacrifice fly in the seventh inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 3-2 on Thursday.

The Royals trailed by a run before rallying for two in the seventh against reliever Cole Sands (1-1).

With one out, Freddy Fermin walked ahead of singles by Drew Waters and Jonathan India, tying the game at 2 before Witt drove a deep fly to center for the lead.

Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) struck out two of three batters faced and Carlos Estévez earned his fourth save.

Twins starter Bailey Ober allowed a first-inning run on three consecutive singles, then settled in to permit just two hits over his final five scoreless frames. He finished six innings, allowing a run on five hits and a walk, striking out four.

Ty France led off the second inning with his second home run of the year, tying the game.

After one-out walks to Trevor Larnach and France, Ryan Jeffers grounded an RBI single up the middle, breaking a 1-1 tie.

Royals starter Michael Wacha tossed 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and three walks, with four strikeouts.

Jonathan India fouled off four consecutive 3-2 pitches before hitting an RBI single to left, tying the game 2-all in the seventh.

Wacha has allowed fewer than three runs in all but one of his eight starts against the Twins.

Returning to Minnesota Friday, the Twins face Detroit Tigers RHP Reese Olson (1-1, 5.06). Minnesota has not announced a probable starter and, with RHP Pablo López expected to be placed on the Injured List, are expected to recall RHP Zebby Matthews from Triple-A St. Paul to make his first start of the season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744318556062.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. watches his sacrifice fly to score one run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. watches his sacrifice fly to score one run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking sacrifice fly in the seventh inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 3-2 on Thursday.The Royals trailed by a run before rallying for two in the seventh against reliever Cole Sands (1-1).With one out, Freddy Fermin walked ahead of singles by Drew Waters and Jonathan India, tying the game at 2 before Witt drove a deep fly to center for the lead.Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) struck out two of three batters faced and Carlos Estévez earned his fourth save.Twins starter Bailey Ober allowed a first-inning run on three consecutive singles, then settled in to permit just two hits over his final five scoreless frames. He finished six innings, allowing a run on five hits and a walk, striking out four.Ty France led off the second inning with his second home run of the year, tying the game.After one-out walks to Trevor Larnach and France, Ryan Jeffers grounded an RBI single up the middle, breaking a 1-1 tie.Royals starter Michael Wacha tossed 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on three hits and three walks, with four strikeouts.<h2>Key moment</h2>Jonathan India fouled off four consecutive 3-2 pitches before hitting an RBI single to left, tying the game 2-all in the seventh.<h2>Key stat</h2>Wacha has allowed fewer than three runs in all but one of his eight starts against the Twins.<h2>Up next</h2>Returning to Minnesota Friday, the Twins face Detroit Tigers RHP Reese Olson (1-1, 5.06). Minnesota has not announced a probable starter and, with RHP Pablo López expected to be placed on the Injured List, are expected to recall RHP Zebby Matthews from Triple-A St. Paul to make his first start of the season.

⚾ Witt Jr. hits tiebreaking sacrifice fly in the seventh as the Royals beat the Twins

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson walked across the dew-soaked grass outside the Augusta National clubhouse to warm applause, and when they reached the first tee box shortly after sunrise Thursday, patrons who had staked out viewing spots with their green Masters folding chairs rose to their feet.

Then the three luminaries turned the traditional honorary tee shots that open&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-hole-by-hole-6e198989ae990a3f928598624cf1d8a3">the Masters</a>&nbsp;into a comedy sketch about their aging bodies.

“The tee is yours,” Masters chairman Fred Ridley said to Nicklaus.

“Maybe,” Nicklaus said. “If I don’t fall down putting this (tee) in the ground.”

Nicklaus pumped his fist after successfully teeing up his golf ball, then felt the need to warn the spectators: “Oh boy. Woo! Watch out.”

The 85-year-old Nicklaus said later that a primary thought in his head was not to kill anyone with an errant shot. He hit it solidly enough and found the left edge of the wide fairway of Tea Olive, the scenic opening hole.

Player, 89, kicked his leg after his tee shot, and the 75-year-old Watson outdrove them both with a swing that has held up over time. Augusta National staffers positioned along the fairway scurried out to collect the three ceremonial golf balls, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-mcilroy-scheffler-9f10537338b6d30e498ba0be18dfe212">the Masters was underway</a>. The first official pairing was Davis Riley and Patton Kizzire, going off in a twosome before groups of three the rest of the day.

Thirty-nine years after winning his last green jacket, Nicklaus was joined by his wife, Barbara, known widely as the First Lady of Golf. She was dressed in the traditional white caddie bib of the Masters, and toted along her husband’s small bag with the single club he needed for his ceremonial duties — a purple-shafted driver.

The tradition of honorary starters began in 1963, when club co-founder Bobby Jones asked Scottish pros Fred McLeod and Jock Hutchinson to lead off the opening round. They served in the role into the 1970s, when the custom was paused for a handful of years. In 1981, Gene Sarazen and Byron Nelson assumed the job. Sam Snead joined a few years later. And their opening tee shots became as much a part of the Masters experience as those pimento cheese sandwiches.

Arnold Palmer served as a starter from 2007 until his death in 2016. Nicklaus had joined him in 2010 and Player two years later. Watson made it a group of three again three years ago — a trio with a combined 11 green jackets and 35 major championships to their names.

After getting relief from the chilly morning air, the honorary starters donned their green jackets and took questions about a variety of topics at a freewheeling and occasionally awkward news conference.

“I’ve got a young girlfriend (who’s) changed my life. How about that, at 90, finding a girlfriend. Tom’s not as old as me, but he’s also found a new one,” Player said.

Asked if he wanted to weigh in on that subject, Watson lifted his hands, smiled and shook his head.

Player, Nicklaus and Watson agreed on two topics: They think Rory McIlroy is going to win this year’s Masters to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-rory-mcilroy-augusta-national-grand-slam-ba7bc65dfbeedd8464c0164c875fcff9">complete the career Grand Slam</a>, and they believe players should always talk to the media after their rounds, even if they played poorly — something McIlroy didn’t do at Pinehurst No. 2 after his heartbreak at last year’s U.S. Open.

“He has the best swing in golf, without a question. He’s the fittest golfer. He does a deadlift of 400 pounds,” Player said. “It’s just the right time for him to win now, and the golf course, there’s no golf course that suits a man better than it does for Rory.”

Nicklaus said he had lunch with McIlroy last week and the world’s second-ranked player detailed how he planned to play every shot.

“He got done with the round. I didn’t open my mouth. I said, ‘Well: I wouldn’t change a thing. That’s exactly how I would try to play the golf course,’” Nicklaus said.

As for players talking to reporters — a subject that came up again this spring when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/collin-morikawa-pga-tour-winning-4177e6ec96092c39438b2a1766e9775a">Collin Morikawa</a>&nbsp;told the media, “I don’t owe anyone anything” — Nicklaus said players could choose not to speak after their rounds, but he can’t recall ever making that choice himself. Player said competitors should be required by the PGA Tour to talk.

“I think there should be a PGA rule, that if you’re requested to go after a round, it’s our obligation to do this,” Player said. “If you ask for somebody to go to the press room, whether you shoot 90 or you shoot 60, you should have to go there.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744298064394.jpeg" alt="From left: Honorary Starters Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson stand with their caddies as they pose on the first hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)" />
 <figcaption>From left: Honorary Starters Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Watson stand with their caddies as they pose on the first hole during the first round at the Masters golf tournament, Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)</figcaption>
 </figure>AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson walked across the dew-soaked grass outside the Augusta National clubhouse to warm applause, and when they reached the first tee box shortly after sunrise Thursday, patrons who had staked out viewing spots with their green Masters folding chairs rose to their feet.Then the three luminaries turned the traditional honorary tee shots that open&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-hole-by-hole-6e198989ae990a3f928598624cf1d8a3">the Masters</a>&nbsp;into a comedy sketch about their aging bodies.“The tee is yours,” Masters chairman Fred Ridley said to Nicklaus.“Maybe,” Nicklaus said. “If I don’t fall down putting this (tee) in the ground.”Nicklaus pumped his fist after successfully teeing up his golf ball, then felt the need to warn the spectators: “Oh boy. Woo! Watch out.”The 85-year-old Nicklaus said later that a primary thought in his head was not to kill anyone with an errant shot. He hit it solidly enough and found the left edge of the wide fairway of Tea Olive, the scenic opening hole.Player, 89, kicked his leg after his tee shot, and the 75-year-old Watson outdrove them both with a swing that has held up over time. Augusta National staffers positioned along the fairway scurried out to collect the three ceremonial golf balls, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-augusta-national-mcilroy-scheffler-9f10537338b6d30e498ba0be18dfe212">the Masters was underway</a>. The first official pairing was Davis Riley and Patton Kizzire, going off in a twosome before groups of three the rest of the day.Thirty-nine years after winning his last green jacket, Nicklaus was joined by his wife, Barbara, known widely as the First Lady of Golf. She was dressed in the traditional white caddie bib of the Masters, and toted along her husband’s small bag with the single club he needed for his ceremonial duties — a purple-shafted driver.The tradition of honorary starters began in 1963, when club co-founder Bobby Jones asked Scottish pros Fred McLeod and Jock Hutchinson to lead off the opening round. They served in the role into the 1970s, when the custom was paused for a handful of years. In 1981, Gene Sarazen and Byron Nelson assumed the job. Sam Snead joined a few years later. And their opening tee shots became as much a part of the Masters experience as those pimento cheese sandwiches.Arnold Palmer served as a starter from 2007 until his death in 2016. Nicklaus had joined him in 2010 and Player two years later. Watson made it a group of three again three years ago — a trio with a combined 11 green jackets and 35 major championships to their names.After getting relief from the chilly morning air, the honorary starters donned their green jackets and took questions about a variety of topics at a freewheeling and occasionally awkward news conference.“I’ve got a young girlfriend (who’s) changed my life. How about that, at 90, finding a girlfriend. Tom’s not as old as me, but he’s also found a new one,” Player said.Asked if he wanted to weigh in on that subject, Watson lifted his hands, smiled and shook his head.Player, Nicklaus and Watson agreed on two topics: They think Rory McIlroy is going to win this year’s Masters to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-rory-mcilroy-augusta-national-grand-slam-ba7bc65dfbeedd8464c0164c875fcff9">complete the career Grand Slam</a>, and they believe players should always talk to the media after their rounds, even if they played poorly — something McIlroy didn’t do at Pinehurst No. 2 after his heartbreak at last year’s U.S. Open.“He has the best swing in golf, without a question. He’s the fittest golfer. He does a deadlift of 400 pounds,” Player said. “It’s just the right time for him to win now, and the golf course, there’s no golf course that suits a man better than it does for Rory.”Nicklaus said he had lunch with McIlroy last week and the world’s second-ranked player detailed how he planned to play every shot.“He got done with the round. I didn’t open my mouth. I said, ‘Well: I wouldn’t change a thing. That’s exactly how I would try to play the golf course,’” Nicklaus said.As for players talking to reporters — a subject that came up again this spring when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/collin-morikawa-pga-tour-winning-4177e6ec96092c39438b2a1766e9775a">Collin Morikawa</a>&nbsp;told the media, “I don’t owe anyone anything” — Nicklaus said players could choose not to speak after their rounds, but he can’t recall ever making that choice himself. Player said competitors should be required by the PGA Tour to talk.“I think there should be a PGA rule, that if you’re requested to go after a round, it’s our obligation to do this,” Player said. “If you ask for somebody to go to the press room, whether you shoot 90 or you shoot 60, you should have to go there.”

⛳ Player, Nicklaus and Watson hit ceremonial shots and joke about aging bodies to start the Masters

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Thursday, April 10" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5625y-18787ab-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: ⚾ Royals shutout by Twins, ⚾ Wind Surge shutout by RockHounds, 🏀 HutchCC's Jackson named All-American

By DAVID SMALE Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Joe Ryan continued his mastery over Kansas City, giving up just two hits over seven scoreless innings in the Minnesota Twins' 4-0 victory over the Royals on Wednesday night.

Ryan (1-1), who struck out four and did not give up a walk, is now 7-0 in nine career starts against the Royals with a 1.30 ERA in 55 1/3 innings.

Seth Lugo (1-1) threw 109 pitches for the Royals, allowing two runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings.

The Twins got a run in the fourth on Edouard Julien's RBI single to right. Lugo walked Carlos Correa and Trevor Larnach with one out. After Ty France lined one back to Lugo, Julien drove in Correa.

France's two-out single in the sixth drove in Correa for a 2-0 lead.

The Twins got runs in the eighth and ninth, as Matt Wallner and France, respectively, each hit his first home run of the season.

After the Twins took a 1-0 lead in the fourth, the Royals had a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the inning. Bobby Witt Jr. led off with a double, but he was doubled up after attempting to steal third and not getting back to second when Salvador Perez lined out to center.

France was 3 of 4 Wednesday with a home run and two RBIs. In 30 career games against Kansas City, he's hitting .412, with a 1.154 OPS, his best against any opponent.

The teams will complete a four-game series on Thursday. The Twins will send RHP Bailey Ober (0-1, 12.15 ERA) to the mound to face Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (0-2, 4.66 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744280627742.jpeg" alt="Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID SMALE Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Joe Ryan continued his mastery over Kansas City, giving up just two hits over seven scoreless innings in the Minnesota Twins' 4-0 victory over the Royals on Wednesday night.Ryan (1-1), who struck out four and did not give up a walk, is now 7-0 in nine career starts against the Royals with a 1.30 ERA in 55 1/3 innings.Seth Lugo (1-1) threw 109 pitches for the Royals, allowing two runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings.The Twins got a run in the fourth on Edouard Julien's RBI single to right. Lugo walked Carlos Correa and Trevor Larnach with one out. After Ty France lined one back to Lugo, Julien drove in Correa.France's two-out single in the sixth drove in Correa for a 2-0 lead.The Twins got runs in the eighth and ninth, as Matt Wallner and France, respectively, each hit his first home run of the season.<h2>Key Moment</h2>After the Twins took a 1-0 lead in the fourth, the Royals had a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the inning. Bobby Witt Jr. led off with a double, but he was doubled up after attempting to steal third and not getting back to second when Salvador Perez lined out to center.<h2>Key Stat</h2>France was 3 of 4 Wednesday with a home run and two RBIs. In 30 career games against Kansas City, he's hitting .412, with a 1.154 OPS, his best against any opponent.<h2>Up Next</h2>The teams will complete a four-game series on Thursday. The Twins will send RHP Bailey Ober (0-1, 12.15 ERA) to the mound to face Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (0-2, 4.66 ERA).

⚾ Joe Ryan pitches 7 scoreless innings as Twins shut out the Royals

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744255105747.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (April 9, 2025)&mdash;The Wichita Wind Surge showed fight but couldn&rsquo;t rally in an 8-4 loss to the Midland RockHounds at Equity Bank Park. Despite erasing a 3-0 deficit in the bottom of the first, Midland kept them off the scoreboard for the rest of the night while continuing to score throughout the contest.
The RockHounds struck first on an RBI single to right field from Colby Halter in the top of the first. After Junior Perez walked to load the bases, Euribiel Angeles sliced a bloop single over <a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ben-ross-805346">Ben Ross</a> in shallow left field to bring home two more runs for a 3-0 Midland lead, which wouldn&rsquo;t last for long, as after Wichita loaded the bases in the bottom half of the frame, <a href="https://www.milb.com/player/rubel-cespedes-686438">Rubel Cespedes</a> yanked a go-ahead grand slam to right field.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1910122945042653596&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwichita-falls-to-midland&amp;sessionId=e1577f239caebe05658f514699a3b14151af6be4&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1910122945042653596"></iframe></div>
Luke Mann didn&rsquo;t waste any time responding with a long ball of his own, a two-run shot, out to right center in the top of the second to give the RockHounds their second lead of the night at 5-4. Lyle Lin would improve that advantage to two on a long RBI single that dropped in fair next to the line in the opening part of the third.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/mike-paredes-702474">Mike Paredes</a> and <a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jaylen-nowlin-701549">Jaylen Nowlin</a> stymied Midland throughout the next five and a third innings, combining for five strikeouts against just two hits and two walks while maintaining the 6-4 game. The Wind Surge put men in scoring position in both the seventh and eighth frames but stranded them there to end the chances.

In the top of the eighth, the RockHounds loaded the bases on a pair of singles and a hit-by-pitch. Henry Bolte laced a single out to right field to give Midland an insurance run, with a second following on an infield fielder&rsquo;s choice in the next at-bat. Wichita had men on second and third down to their final out in the ninth, but a flyout on the warning track in left field ended the night with an 8-4 losing score. Wind Surge starter <a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ricky-castro-690462">Ricky Castro</a> took the loss, giving up six earned runs on five hits with three walks and two strikeouts over two and two-thirds innings.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Before the game, Walker Jenkins got sent to the 7-Day Injured List. Tyler Dearden was activated from the development list as the corresponding move.</li>
<li>The five and a third innings of consecutive shutout baseball was the most in a stretch thrown by the bullpen this season.</li>
<li>Ricky Castro becomes the third Wind Surge pitcher to make his Double-A debut with the team as a starter this season (Connor Prielipp, April 4 / Darren Bowen, April 8).</li>
<li>Halter&rsquo;s RBI single in the first made it the first time that Wichita had trailed in a game since the Game 1 of the doubleheader on Sunday, April 6, in Springfield.</li>
<li>Rubel Cespedes&rsquo;s Grand Slam was the first Wind Surge Grand Slam since Noah Cardenas on July 12, 2024, at Springfield.</li>
</ul>
The Wind Surge continue their series against the Midland RockHounds tomorrow, Thursday, April 10, at 6:35 PM, on Thirsty Thursday. Come on down to Equity Bank Park for a variety of discounted drinks! You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and <a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a> or watch online at <a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a> and Bally Live. For ticket information, please visit <a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾️ Wind Surge falls to RockHounds

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — At Augusta National Golf Club

7:40 a.m.-10:48 a.m. — Davis Riley, United States; Patton Kizzire, United States.

7:51 a.m.-10:59 a.m. — Kevin Yu, Taiwan; Jhonattan Vegas, Venezuela; Nicolai Hojgaard, Denmark.

8:02 a.m.-11:10 a.m. — Mike Weir, Canada; Michael Kim, United States; Cameron Young, United States.

8:13 a.m.-11:21 a.m. — Zach Johnson, United States; Joe Highsmith, United States; Chris Kirk, United States.

8:24 a.m.-11:38 a.m. — Danny Willett, England; Nico Echavarria, Colombia; Davis Thompson, United States.

8:35 a.m.-11:49 a.m. — Bernhard Langer, Germany; Will Zalatoris, United States; a-Noah Kent, United States.

8:52 a.m.-noon — Cameron Smith, Australia; J.T. Poston, United States; Aaron Rai, England.

9:03 a.m.-12:11 p.m. — Fred Couples, United States; Harris English, United States; Taylor Pendrith, Canada.

9:14 a.m.-12:22 p.m. — Corey Conners, Canada; Brian Harman, United States; Stephan Jaeger, Germany.

9:25 a.m.-12:33 p.m. — Patrick Reed, United States; Max Greyserman, United States; Byeong Hun An, South Korea.

9:36 a.m.-12:50 p.m. — Robert MacIntyre, Scotland; Billy Horschel, United States; Nick Dunlap, United States.

9:47 a.m.-1:01 p.m. — Collin Morikawa, United States; Joaquin Niemann, Chile; Min Woo Lee, Australia.

9:58 a.m.-1:12 p.m. — Phil Mickelson, United States; Jason Day, Australia; Keegan Bradley, United States.

10:15 a.m.-1:23 p.m. — Scottie Scheffler, United States; Justin Thomas, United States; a-Jose Luis Ballester, Spain.

10:26 a.m.-1:34 p.m. — Jordan Spieth, United States; Tom Kim, South Korea; Tyrrell Hatton, England.

10:37 a.m.-1:45 p.m. — Tony Finau, United States; Maverick McNealy, United States; Thomas Detry, Belgium.

10:48 a.m.-7:40 a.m. — Cameron Davis, Australia; Rafael Campos, Puerto Rico; Austin Eckroat, United States.

10:59 a.m.-7:51 a.m. — Angel Cabrera, Argentina; Laurie Canter, England; Adam Schenk, United States.

11:10 a.m.-8:02 a.m. — Jose Maria Olazabal, Spain; Thriston Lawrence, South Africa; Brian Campbell, United States.

11:21 a.m.-8:13 a.m. — Bubba Watson, United States; Matthieu Pavon, France; a-Evan Beck, United States.

11:38 a.m.-8:24 a.m. — Tom Hoge, United States; Matt McCarty, United States; Christiaan Bezuidenhout, South Africa.

11:49 a.m.-8:35 a.m. — Charl Schwartzel, South Africa); Denny McCarthy, United States; a-Hiroshi Tai, Singapore.

Noon-8:52 a.m. — Max Homa, United States; Justin Rose, England; J.J. Spaun, United States.

12:11 p.m.-9:03 a.m. — Dustin Johnson, United States; Nick Taylor, Canada; a-Justin Hastings, Cayman Islands.

12:22 p.m.-9:14 a.m. — Sergio Garcia, Spain; Lucas Glover, United States; Daniel Berger, United States.

12:33 p.m.-9:25 a.m. — Patrick Cantlay, United States; Rasmus Hojgaard, Denmark; Matt Fitzpatrick, England.

12:50 p.m.-9:36 a.m. — Brooks Koepka, United States; Russell Henley, United States; Sungjae Im, South Korea.

1:01 p.m.-9:47 a.m. — Adam Scott, Australia; Xander Schauffele, United States; Viktor Hovland, Norway.

1:12 p.m.-9:58 a.m. — Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland; Ludvig Aberg, Sweden; Akshay Bhatia, United States.

1:23 p.m.-10:15 a.m. — Hideki Matsuyama, Japan; Bryson DeChambeau, United States; Shane Lowry, Ireland.

1:34 p.m.-10:26 a.m. — Jon Rahm, Spain; Wyndham Clark, United States; Tommy Fleetwood, England.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744206751347.jpeg" alt="The clubhouse of the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga., is seen in this Sunday, April 3, 2005, file photo. (AP Photo/Dave Martin, File)2005" />
 <figcaption>The clubhouse of the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga., is seen in this Sunday, April 3, 2005, file photo. (AP Photo/Dave Martin, File)2005</figcaption>
 </figure>AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — At Augusta National Golf ClubAugusta, GeorgiaAll Times EDTa-amateurThursday-Friday7:40 a.m.-10:48 a.m. — Davis Riley, United States; Patton Kizzire, United States.7:51 a.m.-10:59 a.m. — Kevin Yu, Taiwan; Jhonattan Vegas, Venezuela; Nicolai Hojgaard, Denmark.8:02 a.m.-11:10 a.m. — Mike Weir, Canada; Michael Kim, United States; Cameron Young, United States.8:13 a.m.-11:21 a.m. — Zach Johnson, United States; Joe Highsmith, United States; Chris Kirk, United States.8:24 a.m.-11:38 a.m. — Danny Willett, England; Nico Echavarria, Colombia; Davis Thompson, United States.8:35 a.m.-11:49 a.m. — Bernhard Langer, Germany; Will Zalatoris, United States; a-Noah Kent, United States.8:52 a.m.-noon — Cameron Smith, Australia; J.T. Poston, United States; Aaron Rai, England.9:03 a.m.-12:11 p.m. — Fred Couples, United States; Harris English, United States; Taylor Pendrith, Canada.9:14 a.m.-12:22 p.m. — Corey Conners, Canada; Brian Harman, United States; Stephan Jaeger, Germany.9:25 a.m.-12:33 p.m. — Patrick Reed, United States; Max Greyserman, United States; Byeong Hun An, South Korea.9:36 a.m.-12:50 p.m. — Robert MacIntyre, Scotland; Billy Horschel, United States; Nick Dunlap, United States.9:47 a.m.-1:01 p.m. — Collin Morikawa, United States; Joaquin Niemann, Chile; Min Woo Lee, Australia.9:58 a.m.-1:12 p.m. — Phil Mickelson, United States; Jason Day, Australia; Keegan Bradley, United States.10:15 a.m.-1:23 p.m. — Scottie Scheffler, United States; Justin Thomas, United States; a-Jose Luis Ballester, Spain.10:26 a.m.-1:34 p.m. — Jordan Spieth, United States; Tom Kim, South Korea; Tyrrell Hatton, England.10:37 a.m.-1:45 p.m. — Tony Finau, United States; Maverick McNealy, United States; Thomas Detry, Belgium.10:48 a.m.-7:40 a.m. — Cameron Davis, Australia; Rafael Campos, Puerto Rico; Austin Eckroat, United States.10:59 a.m.-7:51 a.m. — Angel Cabrera, Argentina; Laurie Canter, England; Adam Schenk, United States.11:10 a.m.-8:02 a.m. — Jose Maria Olazabal, Spain; Thriston Lawrence, South Africa; Brian Campbell, United States.11:21 a.m.-8:13 a.m. — Bubba Watson, United States; Matthieu Pavon, France; a-Evan Beck, United States.11:38 a.m.-8:24 a.m. — Tom Hoge, United States; Matt McCarty, United States; Christiaan Bezuidenhout, South Africa.11:49 a.m.-8:35 a.m. — Charl Schwartzel, South Africa); Denny McCarthy, United States; a-Hiroshi Tai, Singapore.Noon-8:52 a.m. — Max Homa, United States; Justin Rose, England; J.J. Spaun, United States.12:11 p.m.-9:03 a.m. — Dustin Johnson, United States; Nick Taylor, Canada; a-Justin Hastings, Cayman Islands.12:22 p.m.-9:14 a.m. — Sergio Garcia, Spain; Lucas Glover, United States; Daniel Berger, United States.12:33 p.m.-9:25 a.m. — Patrick Cantlay, United States; Rasmus Hojgaard, Denmark; Matt Fitzpatrick, England.12:50 p.m.-9:36 a.m. — Brooks Koepka, United States; Russell Henley, United States; Sungjae Im, South Korea.1:01 p.m.-9:47 a.m. — Adam Scott, Australia; Xander Schauffele, United States; Viktor Hovland, Norway.1:12 p.m.-9:58 a.m. — Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland; Ludvig Aberg, Sweden; Akshay Bhatia, United States.1:23 p.m.-10:15 a.m. — Hideki Matsuyama, Japan; Bryson DeChambeau, United States; Shane Lowry, Ireland.1:34 p.m.-10:26 a.m. — Jon Rahm, Spain; Wyndham Clark, United States; Tommy Fleetwood, England.