KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The moment the Kansas City Chiefs traded Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins for a package of draft picks, any notion that the AFC West champions would be able to simply build on another deep playoff run went right with him. 

The deal earlier this offseason set in motion events that have left the Chiefs in an intriguing position as they hit the meat of their voluntary summer workouts: They’ve rebuilt their pass-catching corps into a more well-rounded and arguably more difficult-to-defend bunch while also updating and perhaps upgrading their playbook to better fit their personnel and in particular those big, rangy wide receivers that are now on the roster.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The moment the Kansas City Chiefs traded Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins for a package of draft picks, any notion that the AFC West champions would be able to simply build on another deep playoff run went right with him. The deal earlier this offseason set in motion events that have left the Chiefs in an intriguing position as they hit the meat of their voluntary summer workouts: They’ve rebuilt their pass-catching corps into a more well-rounded and arguably more difficult-to-defend bunch while also updating and perhaps upgrading their playbook to better fit their personnel and in particular those big, rangy wide receivers that are now on the roster.

Chiefs retooling receivers

LEXINGTON, KY—Kentucky head basketball coach John Calipari has found his replacement for assistant coach Jai Lucas, who was hired away by Duke a month ago. Coincidentally, it’s the same man who replaced Lucas at Texas when Calipari hired Lucas away from the Longhorns two years ago. That man is 44-year-old KT Turner, sources told The Athletic.

Turner has served as associate head coach at Southern Methodist, Texas and Oklahoma, where he spent last season under Porter Moser. He was also on staff at Wichita State when the Shockers made their stunning run to the Final Four in 2013. Turner comes highly endorsed by his former boss at SMU, Larry Brown, a Naismith Hall of Famer and longtime Calipari friend.

When Shaka Smart hired Turner at Texas, he said Brown told him: “K.T.‘s the best assistant I’ve ever been around because of the impact that K.T. has on the people around him.” Smart later said of Turner: “He’s one of those guys, if you don’t like him, then something’s wrong with you.”

Turner took over as acting head coach of the Longhorns briefly in 2021 after Smart tested positive for COVID-19.

Turner is known as a strong recruiter and developer of talent. At SMU, he played a major role in the signing and emergence of <a href="https://theathletic.com/nba/">NBA</a> draft picks Semi Ojeleye, Sterling Brown and Shake Milton. In his first few weeks on the job at OU, Turner helped lock down top-100 recruit CJ Noland after he considered other options during the Sooners’ coaching change.

Turner played for Hutchinson Community College in Kansas, then NAIA hoops in Oklahoma and began his coaching career at JUCOs in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas as well as back at HutchCC. Turner also coached at Cowley College in Arkansas City. His father, Ken, was an assistant to Dana Altman at <a href="https://theathletic.com/team/kansas-state-wildcats-college-basketball/">Kansas State</a> and then worked for Randy Ayers at <a href="https://theathletic.com/team/ohio-state-buckeyes-college-basketball/">Ohio State</a> before he died of a heart attack while jogging in 1994.

K.T. rounds out Calipari’s coaching staff, which he took extra steps to solidify by giving assistant Chin Coleman a significant raise, per sources.

LEXINGTON, KY—Kentucky head basketball coach John Calipari has found his replacement for assistant coach Jai Lucas, who was hired away by Duke a month ago. Coincidentally, it’s the same man who replaced Lucas at Texas when Calipari hired Lucas away from the Longhorns two years ago. That man is 44-year-old KT Turner, sources told The Athletic.Turner has served as associate head coach at Southern Methodist, Texas and Oklahoma, where he spent last season under Porter Moser. He was also on staff at Wichita State when the Shockers made their stunning run to the Final Four in 2013. Turner comes highly endorsed by his former boss at SMU, Larry Brown, a Naismith Hall of Famer and longtime Calipari friend.When Shaka Smart hired Turner at Texas, he said Brown told him: “K.T.‘s the best assistant I’ve ever been around because of the impact that K.T. has on the people around him.” Smart later said of Turner: “He’s one of those guys, if you don’t like him, then something’s wrong with you.”Turner took over as acting head coach of the Longhorns briefly in 2021 after Smart tested positive for COVID-19.Turner is known as a strong recruiter and developer of talent. At SMU, he played a major role in the signing and emergence of <a href="https://theathletic.com/nba/">NBA</a> draft picks Semi Ojeleye, Sterling Brown and Shake Milton. In his first few weeks on the job at OU, Turner helped lock down top-100 recruit CJ Noland after he considered other options during the Sooners’ coaching change.Turner played for Hutchinson Community College in Kansas, then NAIA hoops in Oklahoma and began his coaching career at JUCOs in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas as well as back at HutchCC. Turner also coached at Cowley College in Arkansas City. His father, Ken, was an assistant to Dana Altman at <a href="https://theathletic.com/team/kansas-state-wildcats-college-basketball/">Kansas State</a> and then worked for Randy Ayers at <a href="https://theathletic.com/team/ohio-state-buckeyes-college-basketball/">Ohio State</a> before he died of a heart attack while jogging in 1994.K.T. rounds out Calipari’s coaching staff, which he took extra steps to solidify by giving assistant Chin Coleman a significant raise, per sources.

Former Blue Dragon player and assistant coach KT Turner named to Kentucky staff

<a href="https://goshockers.com/news/2022/6/1/softball-nfca-names-barnard-mckinney-second-team-all-americans.aspx">From GoShockers.com</a>

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State softball accomplished another first in program history Wednesday evening with the announcement of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5647">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5637">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;earning National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Second Team All-America honors. Wichita State has never had multiple All-America selections until 2022. McKinney also becomes the first two-time All-American in school history after becoming the program's&nbsp;initial&nbsp;NFCA All-American in 2021. McKinney was a third team choice as a sophomore. This is the first NFCA All-American honor for Barnard, who just completed a stellar sophomore campaign. Barnard, the American Athletic Conference Player of the Year, leads the nation in home runs (33) and RBI (84) to go with&nbsp;25 stolen bases. Barnard's 33 home runs are the third-most in NCAA history. She became the first player in NCAA history to post a 30/25 season of 30+ home runs and 25+ stolen bases. Her 0.63 home runs per game set a new NCAA single season record, besting the previous record of 0.60 by Camilla Carrera&nbsp;of UTEP in 2012. The Beatrice, Neb., native owns Wichita State single season records in home runs, RBI, total bases, stolen bases (tie) and slugging percentage. After just two seasons Barnard is only three home runs shy of tying the career home run record held by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5641">Madison Perrigan</a>&nbsp;at 58. McKinney capped another All-American campaign by leading the nation in batting average (.522) and hits (97). She is currently the only player in the country with a batting average over .500 in 2022. A unanimous First Team All-Conference selection, McKinney owns several single season and career records at Wichita State, including batting average, hits, on base percentage and runs. To go with her 97 hits and .522 average, McKinney set career highs in home runs (13), RBI (38) and slugging percentage (.849). Entering her final season at Wichita State in 2023, McKinney is only 25 hits away from becoming the first Shocker in school history to collect 300 career hits. Wichita State is one of only 13 schools to have multiple All-America selections. The NFCA All-America teams are voted on by the Association's All-America Committees. In Division I, the committee is comprised of one selected member head coach from each of the NFCA's 10 regions. All student-athletes who were nominated by a member head coach and voted to the first, second or third team All-Region teams were eligible for All-America consideration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://goshockers.com/news/2022/6/1/softball-nfca-names-barnard-mckinney-second-team-all-americans.aspx">From GoShockers.com</a>WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita State softball accomplished another first in program history Wednesday evening with the announcement of&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5647">Addison Barnard</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5637">Sydney McKinney</a>&nbsp;earning National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Second Team All-America honors. Wichita State has never had multiple All-America selections until 2022. McKinney also becomes the first two-time All-American in school history after becoming the program's&nbsp;initial&nbsp;NFCA All-American in 2021. McKinney was a third team choice as a sophomore. This is the first NFCA All-American honor for Barnard, who just completed a stellar sophomore campaign. Barnard, the American Athletic Conference Player of the Year, leads the nation in home runs (33) and RBI (84) to go with&nbsp;25 stolen bases. Barnard's 33 home runs are the third-most in NCAA history. She became the first player in NCAA history to post a 30/25 season of 30+ home runs and 25+ stolen bases. Her 0.63 home runs per game set a new NCAA single season record, besting the previous record of 0.60 by Camilla Carrera&nbsp;of UTEP in 2012. The Beatrice, Neb., native owns Wichita State single season records in home runs, RBI, total bases, stolen bases (tie) and slugging percentage. After just two seasons Barnard is only three home runs shy of tying the career home run record held by&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5641">Madison Perrigan</a>&nbsp;at 58. McKinney capped another All-American campaign by leading the nation in batting average (.522) and hits (97). She is currently the only player in the country with a batting average over .500 in 2022. A unanimous First Team All-Conference selection, McKinney owns several single season and career records at Wichita State, including batting average, hits, on base percentage and runs. To go with her 97 hits and .522 average, McKinney set career highs in home runs (13), RBI (38) and slugging percentage (.849). Entering her final season at Wichita State in 2023, McKinney is only 25 hits away from becoming the first Shocker in school history to collect 300 career hits. Wichita State is one of only 13 schools to have multiple All-America selections. The NFCA All-America teams are voted on by the Association's All-America Committees. In Division I, the committee is comprised of one selected member head coach from each of the NFCA's 10 regions. All student-athletes who were nominated by a member head coach and voted to the first, second or third team All-Region teams were eligible for All-America consideration.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two Shockers named NFCA Second Team All-America

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/surge-split-doubleheader">Via WindSurge.com</a>

Wichita, KS- The Wind Surge split a doubleheader against the Frisco RoughRiders losing game one 3-0 and bounced back to win game two 7-1 behind two home runs from Jair Camargo.

Jack Leiter led the RoughRiders to a 3-0 win over the Surge in game one. Leiter pitched five and two thirds scoreless innings and allowed four hits and tallied eight strikeouts to earn his second win of the season.

Deshawn Keirsey Jr. tallied two hits and a walk in game one of the doubleheader and was a spark at the plate for the Surge. Keirsey finished the night three for six with one walk.

Surge newcomer Jair Camargo got things started for Wichita in the first inning of game two, as he hit a two-run homer to give Wichita an early 2-0 lead.

Jair Camargo hit another two-run homer in the fourth inning that gave the Surge a commanding 7-0 advantage. Camargo finished the night two for eight with two homers and four RBIs.

Surge Reliever Kody Funderburk started on the mound for Wichita and pitched four scoreless innings, striking out four hitters and allowing just two hits before being relieved by Denny Bentley in the fifth inning.

The Wind Surge will resume action against the RoughRiders Thursday for a 7:05 p.m. first pitch.

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/surge-split-doubleheader">Via WindSurge.com</a>Wichita, KS- The Wind Surge split a doubleheader against the Frisco RoughRiders losing game one 3-0 and bounced back to win game two 7-1 behind two home runs from Jair Camargo.Jack Leiter led the RoughRiders to a 3-0 win over the Surge in game one. Leiter pitched five and two thirds scoreless innings and allowed four hits and tallied eight strikeouts to earn his second win of the season.Deshawn Keirsey Jr. tallied two hits and a walk in game one of the doubleheader and was a spark at the plate for the Surge. Keirsey finished the night three for six with one walk.Surge newcomer Jair Camargo got things started for Wichita in the first inning of game two, as he hit a two-run homer to give Wichita an early 2-0 lead.Jair Camargo hit another two-run homer in the fourth inning that gave the Surge a commanding 7-0 advantage. Camargo finished the night two for eight with two homers and four RBIs.Surge Reliever Kody Funderburk started on the mound for Wichita and pitched four scoreless innings, striking out four hitters and allowing just two hits before being relieved by Denny Bentley in the fifth inning.The Wind Surge will resume action against the RoughRiders Thursday for a 7:05 p.m. first pitch.

Surge split Wednesday doubleheader

CLEVELAND (AP) — Rookie Konnor Pilkington struck out eight in five innings for his first major league win and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 to complete a three-game sweep. 

Pilkington, making his third career start and sixth appearance, worked out of a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the fourth. The left-hander is taking the rotation spot of injured Aaron Civale. José Ramírez had a run-scoring groundout in the fifth for his major league leading 52nd RBI. 

Amed Rosario, Andrés Giménez and Richie Palacios also drove in runs for Cleveland. Kansas City has dropped 11 of 13 and has the worst record in the majors at 16-33.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Rookie Konnor Pilkington struck out eight in five innings for his first major league win and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 to complete a three-game sweep. Pilkington, making his third career start and sixth appearance, worked out of a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the fourth. The left-hander is taking the rotation spot of injured Aaron Civale. José Ramírez had a run-scoring groundout in the fifth for his major league leading 52nd RBI. Amed Rosario, Andrés Giménez and Richie Palacios also drove in runs for Cleveland. Kansas City has dropped 11 of 13 and has the worst record in the majors at 16-33.

Guardians finish sweep of Royals Wednesday

Here is the latest Mid-America sports news from The Associated Press

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Nolan Arenado hit a two-run homer and drove in three, Dakota Hudson threw seven strong innings and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the San Diego Padres 5-2 to complete a three-game sweep. Nick Wittgren earned his first save by getting the last out of the game when he retired pinch-hitter Robinson Canó on a fly ball with the bases loaded. The Cardinals have won five of six games. The Padres have lost four of five. Paul Goldschmidt extended his hitting streak to 23 games and reached safely for a career-best 37th consecutive game. Goldschmidt went 1 for 2 with two walks and two runs scored.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Rookie Konnor Pilkington struck out eight in five innings for his first major league win and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 to complete a three-game sweep. Pilkington, making his third career start and sixth appearance, worked out of a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the fourth. The left-hander is taking the rotation spot of injured Aaron Civale. José Ramírez had a run-scoring groundout in the fifth for his major league leading 52nd RBI. Amed Rosario, Andrés Giménez and Richie Palacios also drove in runs for Cleveland. Kansas City has dropped 11 of 13 and has the worst record in the majors at 16-33.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger has received a contract extension and $500,000 raise after leading the Cyclones to the NCAA Sweet 16 and the third-best turnaround in major college basketball history. Otzelberger's contract was extended one year through June 2027 and his compensation package increases from $1.5 million to $2 million annually. The Cyclones went 22-13 in Otzelberger's first season following a two-win season in 2020-21 under Steve Prohm.

NEW YORK (AP) — Filip Chytil (FIH-lihp HEE'-tul) scored twice in the second period and the New York Rangers routed the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning 6-2 on Wednesday night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Mika Zibanejad (MEE'-kah zih-BAN'-ih-jad) , Artemi Panarin (ahr-TEH'-mee pah-NAH'-rihn) and Frank Vatrano each had a goal and an assist, Chris Kreider also scored and Alexis Lafrenière (ah-LEHK'-see lah-frehn-YEHR') and Adam Fox each had two assists to help New York win its franchise-record seventh straight home playoff game. Igor Shesterkin (shehs-TUR'-kihn) stopped 37 shots.

Steven Stamkos had a goal and an assist, and Ondrej Palat (AHN'-dray pah-LAHT') also scored for Tampa Bay, which had won six straight and was playing for the first time since completing its second-round sweep of Florida on May 23.

Tempers flared with less than two minutes remaining as several skirmishes broke out in one corner. Ten players received penalties — including two on the Rangers' Barclay Goodrow — to put Tampa Bay on a power play to finish the game.

Game 2 is Friday night at Madison Square Garden.

Mets blank Nationals again 5-0 to finish perfect homestand

UNDATED (AP) — Pitching for the first time in the majors with his father in the stands, Carlos Carrasco wanted to come through.

Carrasco combined with three relievers on New York's second consecutive shutout.

Tomás Nido went 4 for 4 with three RBIs at the bottom of the batting order and the Mets beat the Washington Nationals 5-0 Wednesday to polish off a perfect homestand.

Francisco Lindor extended his RBI streak to 10 games, matching Hall of Famer Mike Piazza for the second-longest in franchise history.

New York is 18 games over .500 for the first time since ending the 2015 regular season 90-72 on the way to its last World Series appearance.

— Ji-Man Choi hit an RBI double in the 11th inning as the Tampa Bay Rays beat Texas 4-3 Wednesday night. That kept the Rangers from having a winning record for the first time this season. Both teams scored in the 10th, but the Rangers left the bases loaded. Jon Gray struck out a season-high 12 batters over seven innings and exited with a 2-1 lead for Texas. Sam Huff and Nathaniel Lowe hit solo homers for the Rangers. Randy Arozarena went deep for the Rays, and Harold Ramirez had a tying pinch-hit RBI single in the eighth.

— Bryan Reynolds hit a two-run homer in the fifth inning and the Pittsburgh Pirates defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-4. The Pirates completed their first sweep at Dodger Stadium in nearly 22 years. Rodolfo Castro went 2 for 2 with four RBI in three innings and the Pirates' defense turned four double plays. The NL West-leading Dodgers lost their third in a row for the first time since dropping four straight from May 11-14 against the Pirates and Phillies. They were swept for the first time this season.

— Rookie Christopher Morel drove in Jason Heyward with a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, and the Chicago Cubs beat the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3. Heyward started on second base and moved up on a groundout by Nick Madrigal. Morel then drove him in with a fly to left against Hoby Milner (2-1) and got mobbed by his teammates in the infield after the winning run scored. Morel extended his club record by reaching base in his first 15 major league games, when he walked and scored in the first. Willson Contreras singled twice, drove in a run and scored one after hitting home runs in his previous two games.

— Rookie Edward Cabrera took a no-hitter into the sixth inning and struck out nine in earning his first big league win, Jazz Chisholm Jr. homered and drove in four, and the Miami Marlins collected 21 hits in routing the Colorado Rockies 14-1 in the first game of a doubleheader. Cabrera, a 24-year-old from the Dominican Republic, used a fastball topping out at 99 mph along with a slider and changeup to baffle Colorado's lineup. He allowed one hit over six innings, overcoming four walks and two hit batters in the Marlins' second win in seven games.

— Rookie Konnor Pilkington struck out eight in five innings for his first major league win and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 to complete a three-game sweep. Pilkington, making his third career start and sixth appearance, worked out of a bases-loaded, one-out jam in the fourth. The left-hander is taking the rotation spot of injured Aaron Civale (sih-VA'-lee). José Ramírez had a run-scoring groundout in the fifth for his major league leading 52nd RBI. Kansas City has dropped 11 of 13 and has the worst record in the majors at 16-33.

— Vladimir Guerrero (guh-REHR'-oh) Jr. hit a two run home run, Danny Jansen added a three-run blast, and the Toronto Blue Jays extended their winning streak to seven games by beating the Chicago White Sox 7-3. It's Toronto's longest winning streak since an eight-game run last Sept. 1-9. Santiago Espinal added a solo shot as the Blue Jays won for the 11th time in 14 games. Blue Jays left-hander Hyun Jin Ryu left after four innings because of tightness in his forearm. Ryu missed 24 games in April and May because of soreness in his forearm.

— Austin Riley hit a three-run homer, William Contreras had three hits — including two of Atlanta's five doubles — and Kyle Wright threw six scoreless innings for Atlanta who blanked the Diamondbacks 6-0.

— Kyle Schwarber and Nick Maton homered to help the Philadelphia Phillies snap a five-game losing streak with a 6-5 victory over the San Francisco Giants. Phillies star Bryce Harper was a late scratch from the lineup due to right forearm soreness, and second baseman Jean Segura was ruled out for up to three months with a fractured right index finger. Maton, Segura's replacement at second base, also had an RBI bunt single as Philadelphia avoided a three-game sweep and won for just the fifth time in 17 games while likely cooling calls for manager Joe Girardi's job — at least for now.

— Ryan Mountcastle and Ramón Urías hit two of the Orioles' four homers with back-to-back shots in the sixth inning, and Baltimore cruised past the Seattle Mariners 9-2. Rougned Odor and Trey Mancini also connected for the Orioles, who bounced back from a 10-0 defeat the prior night. Austin Hays went 1 for 2 with two walks and an RBI, extending his hitting streak to 12 games. Reliever Cionel Perez picked up the win with 1 1/3 scoreless innings. Baltimore pulled away with five runs in the sixth. Mountcastle and Urías gave the Orioles a cushion with back-to-back home runs.

— Tarik Skubal allowed just two hits in seven shutout innings in Detroit Tigers' 5-0 win over the Minnesota Twins. Jonathan Schoop drove in two of Detroit's runs and is hitting .438 with a home run and six RBIs in the five-game series against his former team. The Tigers have won three of four in the series that concludes Thursday. Skubal walked one and struck out six to improve to 3-0 with a 1.22 ERA in his last six starts. Minnesota's Bailey Ober allowed five runs on nine hits in six innings. The Twins haven't scored in 20 innings.

— Nolan Arenado hit a two-run homer and drove in three, Dakota Hudson threw seven strong innings and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the San Diego Padres 5-2 to complete a three-game sweep. Nick Wittgren earned his first save by getting the last out of the game when he retired pinch-hitter Robinson Canó (kah-NOH') on a fly ball with the bases loaded.

— Justin Verlander took a no-hitter into the seventh inning, Yordan Álvarez cleared the bases with a go-ahead double in the ninth and the Houston Astros beat the Oakland Athletics 5-4 to complete a three-game sweep. Verlander finished with six strikeouts in seven innings, allowing three earned runs on two hits for a no-decision. Reliever Bryan Abreu pitched a scoreless eighth inning. Ryan Pressly closed for his 10th save.

— Tarik Skubal allowed just two hits in seven shutout innings in Detroit Tigers' 5-0 win over the Minnesota Twins. Jonathan Schoop drove in two of Detroit's runs and his is hitting .438 with a home run and six RBIs in the five-game series against his former team. The Tigers have won three of four in the series that concludes Thursday. Skubal walked one and struck out six to improve to 3-0 with a 1.22 ERA in his last six starts. Minnesota's Bailey Ober allowed five runs on nine hits in six innings. The Twins haven't scored in 20 innings.

— Garrett Whitlock pitched six strong innings and Jackie Bradley Jr. drove in four runs to help the Boston Red Sox beat the Cincinnati Reds 7-1. Whitlock allowed five hits and one unearned run before two relievers completed the seven-hitter. Boston got to Hunter Greene in the fourth inning. Greene struck out seven batters in the first three innings before the Red Sox broke through.

— The game between the Los Angeles Angels and New York Yankees has been rained out. The teams will make up the game with a day-night doubleheader Thursday at Yankee Stadium. Angels star Shohei Ohtani is scheduled to pitch the first game starting at 1:05 p.m. The second game is supposed to start at 7:05 p.m. More rain is in the forecast, however. Reid Detmers will pitch the second game for the Angels, who have lost six in a row. Nestor Cortes will start the first game for the Yankees and Jameson Taillon will pitch the second game.

Marlins' Wendle back to IL; Anderson sidelined

UNDATED (AP) — Miami Marlins infielder Joey Wendle has been placed on the 10-day injured list with a right hamstring strain.

Outfielder Brian Anderson landed on the IL with lower back spasms for the struggling Marlins.

Miami recalled right-hander Edward Cabrera and third baseman Luke Williams from Triple-A Jacksonville.

The Chicago Cubs placed left-hander Drew Smyly on the 15-day disabled list because of a strained right oblique. Outfielder Jason Heyward was activated from the injured list and right-hander Michael Rucker from the 15-day IL. Outfielder Nelson Velázquez was optioned to Triple-A Iowa, and right-hander Manuel Rodriguez was recalled from Iowa and placed on the 60-day injured list because of a strained right elbow.

Blue Jays left-hander Hyun Jin Ryu exited his start against the Chicago White Sox after four innings because of tightness in his pitching forearm. Ryu is 2-0 with a 5.33 ERA in six starts. He missed 24 games in April and May because of soreness in his forearm, but he had gone 2-0 with a 1.72 ERA in his past three starts since returning May 14 at Tampa Bay.

Browns sign TE Njoku to 4-year contract extension

UNDATED (AP) — David Njoku has gone from wanting out of the Cleveland Browns to locking in with them. Cleveland announced Njoku's four-year, $56.75 million contract extension on Wednesday, a deal that could take the tight end through the 2027 season.

A first-round draft pick in 2017, Njoku will be among the NFL's highest-paid tight ends without putting up elite statistics. He caught 36 passes for 475 yards and a team-high four touchdowns last season. But the Browns believe the 25-year-old Njoku is just reaching his prime and could be on the verge of a breakout, which is why they invested in him.

— The Carolina Panthers' proposed $800 million practice facility project in Rock Hill, South Carolina, is officially dead after team owner David Tepper's real estate company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Delaware on Wednesday night. Tepper, who made billions in hedge funds, is the NFL's wealthiest owner. The filing will not affect the NFL's Panthers or Major League Soccer's Charlotte FC in any way. It's unclear at this point what will happen to the half-built practice facility. Tepper has invested more than $175 million into the facility, which is located about 25 miles south of the team's current downtown stadium and headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina.

— Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray returned to the practice field today after a couple of months of off-the-field drama. The quarterback has been in a passive-aggressive contract spat with Arizona management and even wiped his social media accounts of any Cardinals references at one point. Murray is entering the fourth year of his rookie contract and wants a new long-term deal.

— The Minnesota Vikings have signed eight-year veteran wide receiver Albert Wilson. He provides an experienced option for more depth at the position. The 5-foot-9, 195-pound Wilson spent the past four seasons with the Miami Dolphins. Wilson had a career-high 554 yards with three scores in 13 games in 2017. Wilson was undrafted out of Georgia State.

— Veteran defensive tackle Akiem Hicks has signed a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 32-year-old Hicks is likely to become a replacement for Ndamukong Suh ((ehn-DAHM'-uh-kehn soo), who is a free agent after spending the past three seasons on one-year deals with Tampa Bay. Hicks played the past six years with the Chicago Bears, starting all 77 games he appeared in and had 31 sacks.

— Stephon Tuitt's NFL career is over. The Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman has retired from the NFL at age 29. Tuitt had 34 1/2 sacks in eight seasons with the Steelers. He did not play last season after his brother Richard Bartlett III was killed in a hit and run in Georgia.

— The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform has invited NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder to appear at a hearing later this month. Committee members say they sent letters to the league and team requesting Goodell and Snyder appear June 22. Congress launched an investigation into the organization's workplace culture last year after the league declined to release a report about an independent review it oversaw that led to a $10 million fine.

— The Atlanta Falcons are bringing back their red helmets for their throwback uniforms this season. The Falcons have announced they will bring back the red helmets with black jerseys for the first time since 2012. The team will wear the combination, which pays tribute to their first uniform in 1966, when they play the San Francisco 49ers in a home game on Oct. 16. The Falcons wore this version of the red helmet from 1966 to 1969 before removing the gold trim. The Falcons brought back the combination in 2009 and wore the uniform twice each season until 2013.

— The Dallas Cowboys say former running back Marion Barber III has died. He was 38. Barber scored plenty of touchdowns without recording a 1,000-yard season. He played a final season with Chicago in 2011 after spending his first six years with the Cowboys. He had issues with mental health after his career. Police in the Dallas suburb of Frisco say they made a welfare check at an apartment "believed to be leased" to Barber and were investigating an unattended death there.

PARIS (AP) — Top-ranked Iga Swiatek (EE'-gah shvee-AHN'-tehk) has won her 33rd match in a row with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over 11th-seeded Jessica Pegula (peh-GOO'-luh) to advance to the semifinals of the French Open.

The 21-year-old Swiatek has gone unbeaten since February for the WTA's longest such stretch since Serena Williams compiled a 34-match run in 2013.

Swiatek, who won the 2020 French Open, will next face Daria Kasatkina of Russia for a spot at the final. The 20th-seeded Kasatkina advanced with a 6-4, 7-6 win over No. 29 Veronika Kudermetova, also of Russia.

Marin Cilic (CHIHL'-ihch) dominated a fifth-set tiebreaker against seventh-seeded Andrey Rublev to advance to his first French Open semifinal. The 2014 U.S. Open champion won 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 in a match that lasted more than four hours. The 33-year-old Cilic will next face No. 8 Casper Ruud.

Casper Ruud has become the first man from Norway to reach the semifinals at a Grand Slam tournament. He made it that far at the French Open by beating 19-year-old Holger Rune of Denmark 6-1, 4-6, 7-6, 6-3.

Ruud leads the ATP with 65 wins in clay-court matches since the start of the 2020 season.

Rahm ready to start over and get another chance at Memorial

DUBLIN, Ohio (AP) — The first Saudi-funded LIV Golf Invitational has Dustin Johnson and 12 other PGA Tour members as part of its 48-man field next week outside London. The next move falls to the PGA Tour, which must decide whether to allow them to come back and, whether the PGA Tour allows the players to return to the tour at any time.

The Royal Bank of Canada already has said it is dropping Johnson and Graeme McDowell as sponsors. Both are playing the new event being held at the same time as the RBC Canadian Open.

Pro golfer Bart Bryant killed in vehicle accident in Florida

POLK CITY, Fla. (AP) — Professional golfer Bart Bryant was killed and his wife was injured when a truck slammed into their SUV while they were stopped on a central Florida roadway for a construction crew.

Bryant, 59, a three-time winner on the PGA Tour, was unresponsive when emergency responders in Polk City found him Tuesday afternoon.

According to the sheriff's office, the Bryants' SUV was stopped at the construction site near an intersection. A truck traveling in the same direction failed to see their stopped SUV and slammed into it.

Rockets guard Jalen Green partners with new Asian league

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green is partnering with the East Asia Super League as an ambassador to promote basketball in the region. The eight-team pan-regional league will launch in October with the leading clubs from Japan, South Korea, Philippines, Taiwan and a Manila-based team representing greater China.

Green was the highest-drafted Asian American player in the NBA when he was picked second overall. He's the third player of Filipino descent to make it to the NBA.

The 20-year-old Green made the NBA's All-Rookie first team in 2021-22 and says "I want to be an inspiration for the next generation of hoopers in Asia and elevate the game in the region."

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Sports Headlines for Thursday 

<div><iframe title="Eagle Media Sports for Wednesday June 1, 2022" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=f2wat-123e73f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Wednesday Morning

WICHITA, Kan. — Long-time Wichita Open Director Roy Turner will retire effective October 1, 2022. 

Turner has served as Tournament Director for the past 23 years, leading the planning, growth and expansion of the Wichita Open Benefitting KU Wichita Pediatrics, an event that has been a staple on the Korn Ferry Tour’s schedule since its 1990 inaugural season.

Turner will give out one more trophy and champion’s check on the 18th green at Crestview Country Club on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19th.

WICHITA, Kan. — Long-time Wichita Open Director Roy Turner will retire effective October 1, 2022. Turner has served as Tournament Director for the past 23 years, leading the planning, growth and expansion of the Wichita Open Benefitting KU Wichita Pediatrics, an event that has been a staple on the Korn Ferry Tour’s schedule since its 1990 inaugural season.Turner will give out one more trophy and champion’s check on the 18th green at Crestview Country Club on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19th.

Turner to retire from Wichita Open

WICHITA, Kan. — The Wichita Wind Surge are hosting a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for the students of Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School.

During home games between now and the end of August, fans can bring donations to Guest Services at Riverfront Stadium, located behind Section 10. Those unable to attend a Wind Surge game may drop off donations at the Box Office, located on McLean Blvd. Those donating will receive a free berm ticket for a future 2022 regular season Wind Surge game.

Accepted school supplies include: notebook paper, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, rulers, backpacks, Clorox wipes, baby wipes, dry erase markers, folders, and scissors.

Donations must be new in their original unopened packaging; backpacks can be new or gently used.

WICHITA, Kan. — The Wichita Wind Surge are hosting a school-supply drive with donations earmarked for the students of Andover’s Prairie Creek Elementary School.During home games between now and the end of August, fans can bring donations to Guest Services at Riverfront Stadium, located behind Section 10. Those unable to attend a Wind Surge game may drop off donations at the Box Office, located on McLean Blvd. Those donating will receive a free berm ticket for a future 2022 regular season Wind Surge game.Accepted school supplies include: notebook paper, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, rulers, backpacks, Clorox wipes, baby wipes, dry erase markers, folders, and scissors.Donations must be new in their original unopened packaging; backpacks can be new or gently used.

Wind Surge holding school supply drive for Andover elementary hit by tornado

WICHITA, Kan. — Former Kansas City Chiefs and current Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill will be in Wichita for the 2022 Tyreek Hill Youth Football Camp at Stryker Sports Complex on Friday from 3-7 p.m.

Hill and camp coaches will provide hands-on instruction with activities including lectures, fundamental skill stations, contests and awards. All campers will be grouped according to age to ensure proper levels of competition and instruction.

Each camper will receive a t-shirt, a photo with Hill and items from camp sponsors. Hill will be on-site to direct the camp and will be joined by area youth and high school coaches. The camp is open to boys and girls of all skill levels age 6-16.

To register, go to <a href="http://flexworksports.com">flexworksports.com</a>.

WICHITA, Kan. — Former Kansas City Chiefs and current Miami Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill will be in Wichita for the 2022 Tyreek Hill Youth Football Camp at Stryker Sports Complex on Friday from 3-7 p.m.Hill and camp coaches will provide hands-on instruction with activities including lectures, fundamental skill stations, contests and awards. All campers will be grouped according to age to ensure proper levels of competition and instruction.Each camper will receive a t-shirt, a photo with Hill and items from camp sponsors. Hill will be on-site to direct the camp and will be joined by area youth and high school coaches. The camp is open to boys and girls of all skill levels age 6-16.To register, go to <a href="http://flexworksports.com">flexworksports.com</a>.

Tyreek Hill to visit Wichita for football camp Friday

CLEVELAND (AP) — Austin Hedges hit a three-run homer and rookie Oscar Gonzalez doubled in two runs, sending the Cleveland Guardians to an 8-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals. 

Hedges’ third-inning drive to left barely cleared the 19-foot wall and scored Ernie Clement and Oscar Mercado, extending Cleveland’s lead to 6-2. The Guardians put 11 men on base in the first three frames against Daniel Lynch. 

Gonzalez, who is 9 for 21 through five games in the majors, tacked on a two-run double in the sixth. Cal Quantrill worked 6 1/3 innings to remain unbeaten in his career at Progressive Field and against the Royals.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Austin Hedges hit a three-run homer and rookie Oscar Gonzalez doubled in two runs, sending the Cleveland Guardians to an 8-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Hedges’ third-inning drive to left barely cleared the 19-foot wall and scored Ernie Clement and Oscar Mercado, extending Cleveland’s lead to 6-2. The Guardians put 11 men on base in the first three frames against Daniel Lynch. Gonzalez, who is 9 for 21 through five games in the majors, tacked on a two-run double in the sixth. Cal Quantrill worked 6 1/3 innings to remain unbeaten in his career at Progressive Field and against the Royals.

Guardians win over Royals Tuesday

ATHENS, Ga.—Georgia is in the running for the nation's No. 1 Junior College wide receiver. So, who is Malik Benson, and why are the nation's premier programs in hopes of landing him?

The University of Georgia has recruited at a top3 level for half a decade at this point under head coach Kirby Smart. And they have done as much through relatively conventional methods.&nbsp;

The national championship delivered in 2021 was not through copious transfers whether it be from junior colleges or other Power 5 schools. No, it as a roster comprised of mostly Georgia-developed talent.&nbsp;

However, throughout Smart's tenure, he's proven a willingness to seek the talents of a transfer player if they will impact his roster. He's done the Power5 transfer route with players like Eli Wolf and Lawrence Cager in 2019, Tre McKitty, and JT Daniels in 2020. He's even gone the junior college route with players like Devonte Wyatt and DJ Daniel.&nbsp;

Now, the class of 2023, Georgia could be in the running for the No. 1 junior college wide receiver in the country. Malik Benson is currently playing at Hutchinson Community College in Lansing, Kansas.&nbsp;

A native of Lansing, Benson wasn't recruited at all in high school. Well, 1,229 yards and 11 TDs later, Benson has set official visits this summer to Alabama, Georgia, Oregon, Tennessee, and LSU. From zero offers up to December of 2021, to visiting the nation's premier football programs. It's been quite a rush of interest for Benson.&nbsp;

It's easy to see why: He's got game-breaking ability with the ball in his hands after the catch and has shown as much through a tough community college slate in Kansas. This type of ability after the catch is what has programs fawning over Benson.&nbsp;

Benson will travel to Georgia for his official visit in Athens on June 17th.

ATHENS, Ga.—Georgia is in the running for the nation's No. 1 Junior College wide receiver. So, who is Malik Benson, and why are the nation's premier programs in hopes of landing him?The University of Georgia has recruited at a top3 level for half a decade at this point under head coach Kirby Smart. And they have done as much through relatively conventional methods.&nbsp;The national championship delivered in 2021 was not through copious transfers whether it be from junior colleges or other Power 5 schools. No, it as a roster comprised of mostly Georgia-developed talent.&nbsp;However, throughout Smart's tenure, he's proven a willingness to seek the talents of a transfer player if they will impact his roster. He's done the Power5 transfer route with players like Eli Wolf and Lawrence Cager in 2019, Tre McKitty, and JT Daniels in 2020. He's even gone the junior college route with players like Devonte Wyatt and DJ Daniel.&nbsp;Now, the class of 2023, Georgia could be in the running for the No. 1 junior college wide receiver in the country. Malik Benson is currently playing at Hutchinson Community College in Lansing, Kansas.&nbsp;A native of Lansing, Benson wasn't recruited at all in high school. Well, 1,229 yards and 11 TDs later, Benson has set official visits this summer to Alabama, Georgia, Oregon, Tennessee, and LSU. From zero offers up to December of 2021, to visiting the nation's premier football programs. It's been quite a rush of interest for Benson.&nbsp;It's easy to see why: He's got game-breaking ability with the ball in his hands after the catch and has shown as much through a tough community college slate in Kansas. This type of ability after the catch is what has programs fawning over Benson.&nbsp;Benson will travel to Georgia for his official visit in Athens on June 17th.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Could Georgia Land No. 1 ranked HutchCC WR Malik Benson?

May 31, 2022 Morning Sports 

CLEVELAND (AP) — Kansas City ace Zack Greinke was placed on the 15-day injured list with a strained right forearm. It was the most significant in a flurry of roster moves by the Royals before opening a three-game series with the Guardians Monday. 

The 38-year-old Greinke complained of tightness in his arm following Sunday’s start in Minnesota. He allowed five runs in four innings in a 7-3 loss to the Twins. Greinke is 0-4 with 5.05 ERA this season. 

Royals manager Mike Matheny said it could “take a little time” before Greinke's back. A six-time All-Star, Greinke is in his second stint with the Royals. They signed him to a one-year, $13 million contract in March.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Kansas City ace Zack Greinke was placed on the 15-day injured list with a strained right forearm. It was the most significant in a flurry of roster moves by the Royals before opening a three-game series with the Guardians Monday. The 38-year-old Greinke complained of tightness in his arm following Sunday’s start in Minnesota. He allowed five runs in four innings in a 7-3 loss to the Twins. Greinke is 0-4 with 5.05 ERA this season. Royals manager Mike Matheny said it could “take a little time” before Greinke's back. A six-time All-Star, Greinke is in his second stint with the Royals. They signed him to a one-year, $13 million contract in March.

Grienke on injured list

CLEVELAND (AP) — Andrés Giménez hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning off rookie Collin Snider, sending the Cleveland Guardians to a 7-3 win over the injury-riddled Kansas City Royals. 

Giménez’s shot to center field off scored pinch-runner Ernie Clement and rookie Oscar Gonzalez, who singled in the inning to make up for a gaffe earlier when he threw the ball into the stands with two outs. 

José Ramírez hit his 13th homer and drove in three more runs for the Guardians, raising his major league-leading total to 51 RBIs. Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who rallied in the eighth but couldn’t stop from falling to 16-31 — the AL’s worst record.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Andrés Giménez hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning off rookie Collin Snider, sending the Cleveland Guardians to a 7-3 win over the injury-riddled Kansas City Royals. Giménez’s shot to center field off scored pinch-runner Ernie Clement and rookie Oscar Gonzalez, who singled in the inning to make up for a gaffe earlier when he threw the ball into the stands with two outs. José Ramírez hit his 13th homer and drove in three more runs for the Guardians, raising his major league-leading total to 51 RBIs. Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who rallied in the eighth but couldn’t stop from falling to 16-31 — the AL’s worst record.

Royals lose to Guardians Monday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Patrick and Brittany Mahomes are expecting their second child. 

The Chiefs quarterback made the news public on Twitter Sunday.

Brittany Mahomes is a co-owner of the KC Current women's soccer team and the team congratulated the couple Sunday, as well.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Patrick and Brittany Mahomes are expecting their second child. The Chiefs quarterback made the news public on Twitter Sunday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Round 2! 🤍 <a href="https://twitter.com/BrittanyLynne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrittanyLynne</a> <a href="https://t.co/QrkECqGyka">pic.twitter.com/QrkECqGyka</a>&mdash; Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes/status/1531038182212509697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Brittany Mahomes is a co-owner of the KC Current women's soccer team and the team congratulated the couple Sunday, as well.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We&#39;re gonna need some more teal❗️ Congratulations to Co-Owner <a href="https://twitter.com/BrittanyLynne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrittanyLynne</a> and her husband <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PatrickMahomes</a> on the announcement of their second child 😍 <a href="https://t.co/auYuvBgtre">pic.twitter.com/auYuvBgtre</a>&mdash; KC Current (@thekccurrent) <a href="https://twitter.com/thekccurrent/status/1531039064811524097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Patrick and Brittany Mahomes announce pregnancy with second child

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.— After coming up&nbsp;a double shy of the cycle&nbsp;in Friday night’s game against the Twins, ﻿Bobby Witt Jr.﻿ turned into a doubles machine on Saturday.

The rookie lined three two-baggers and drove in two runs in the Royals’ 7-3 victory at Target Field, setting up a chance for Kansas City to take the four-game series if it wins Sunday’s finale.

“Yeah, that was the goal: Just hit some doubles today,” Witt said nonchalantly postgame.

•&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/royals-vs-twins/2022/05/28/661774/final/box" target="_blank">Box score</a>

The last time a Royal managed a three-double game was exactly four years ago, when Jon Jay hit three on May 28, 2018. Witt became the seventh Royals rookie to hit three doubles in a game, joining David Lough, Calvin Pickering, Ken Harvey, Carlos Beltran, Tim Spehr and George Brett -- and only Brett was younger than Witt at the time of his effort.

“You’re starting to see him figure out the strike zone,” manager Mike Matheny said of Witt. “Maintain the zone better. He’s just got freakish ability when he puts it all together. Just watching how the ball jumps off his bat, how quick his hands are, making things happen.

The Royals have been increasingly pleased with the offense’s approach in this recent stretch of games. After batting .217 with 14 homers and a .592 OPS, while scoring 3.2 runs per game, through their first 29 games, the Royals entered Saturday having batted .273 with 20 homers and a .799 OPS, while scoring 4.9 runs per game, over their last 15 games.

“Comes down to two-strike and two-out hits today,” Matheny said. “Those are huge for us. We talked about how we get this offense going, it’s those big hits, those big situations.”

The top of the order is leading the charge for Kansas City. ﻿Whit Merrifield﻿ drove in two runs Saturday with a double of his own and is hitting .306 with a .357 on-base percentage in his last 15 games. ﻿Andrew Benintendi﻿ is as consistent as ever, going 2-for-5 on Saturday and upping his OPS to .817.

Benintendi also scored two runs because he’s hitting in front of Witt, who is slashing .310/.359/.759 with 14 RBIs in his last 15 games.

Witt is also crushing the ball, with exit velocities of 110 mph, 111.6 mph, 94.9 mph and 91.5 mph on Saturday.

“I feel like every time he gets up there, he’s hitting the ball hard somewhere,” Benintendi said. “Whether it be in the gap or right at someone, it’s just crazy to see how hard he hits the ball every time. He’s starting to get going these past two weeks or whatever it may be. If I’m on first, I feel like he’s either going to hit a homer or [one] in the gap for me to score.

“I think as of late here, we’ve been hitting with guys in scoring position, two-out rallies, things like that that can kickstart our offense and give us momentum.”

The uptick in offense hasn’t translated to many wins, but it was enough Saturday after ﻿<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/663903" target="_blank">Brady Singer</a>﻿ struck out eight and gave up three runs in 5 1/3 innings, continuing his solid performance since returning from Triple-A Omaha two weeks ago.

Lefty reliever Gabe Speier allowed two of those runs charged to Singer to score in the sixth, but the Royals’ bullpen held steady from there, including two scoreless innings from Dylan Coleman.

The Royals had hoped this kind of offensive production would come with the warmer weather and larger sample size of at-bats, but behind the scenes, officials are seeing a better approach and better game-planning processes with their hitters, something they had hoped would translate when Alec Zumwalt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/royals/news/alec-zumwalt-in-charge-of-all-hitting-for-royals" target="_blank">took over as hitting coach</a>&nbsp;on May 16.

The philosophy Zumwalt and the Royals have established in their hitting development program has been to swing at pitches hitters can do damage on, instead of chasing or softly hitting pitches that might be in the zone but won’t translate to damage.

Better swing decisions have led to hitting the ball harder. Entering Saturday, the Royals are second in baseball since May 16 in average exit velocity at 90.9 mph. Their barrel percentage since then is 8.5%, which is eighth in baseball, and their hard-hit rate is ranked second at 44.3%.

“We’ve had hard hits with bad luck, too,” Matheny said. “Now you’re starting to see the ball carry a little bit more. Everybody’s heating up. It’s a dangerous offense once we get things clicking. Everybody’s feeling good about themselves right now because they’ve all contributed.”

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.— After coming up&nbsp;a double shy of the cycle&nbsp;in Friday night’s game against the Twins, ﻿Bobby Witt Jr.﻿ turned into a doubles machine on Saturday.The rookie lined three two-baggers and drove in two runs in the Royals’ 7-3 victory at Target Field, setting up a chance for Kansas City to take the four-game series if it wins Sunday’s finale.“Yeah, that was the goal: Just hit some doubles today,” Witt said nonchalantly postgame.•&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/royals-vs-twins/2022/05/28/661774/final/box" target="_blank">Box score</a>The last time a Royal managed a three-double game was exactly four years ago, when Jon Jay hit three on May 28, 2018. Witt became the seventh Royals rookie to hit three doubles in a game, joining David Lough, Calvin Pickering, Ken Harvey, Carlos Beltran, Tim Spehr and George Brett -- and only Brett was younger than Witt at the time of his effort.“You’re starting to see him figure out the strike zone,” manager Mike Matheny said of Witt. “Maintain the zone better. He’s just got freakish ability when he puts it all together. Just watching how the ball jumps off his bat, how quick his hands are, making things happen.“It’s fun to watch right now.”The Royals have been increasingly pleased with the offense’s approach in this recent stretch of games. After batting .217 with 14 homers and a .592 OPS, while scoring 3.2 runs per game, through their first 29 games, the Royals entered Saturday having batted .273 with 20 homers and a .799 OPS, while scoring 4.9 runs per game, over their last 15 games.“Comes down to two-strike and two-out hits today,” Matheny said. “Those are huge for us. We talked about how we get this offense going, it’s those big hits, those big situations.”The top of the order is leading the charge for Kansas City. ﻿Whit Merrifield﻿ drove in two runs Saturday with a double of his own and is hitting .306 with a .357 on-base percentage in his last 15 games. ﻿Andrew Benintendi﻿ is as consistent as ever, going 2-for-5 on Saturday and upping his OPS to .817.Benintendi also scored two runs because he’s hitting in front of Witt, who is slashing .310/.359/.759 with 14 RBIs in his last 15 games.Witt is also crushing the ball, with exit velocities of 110 mph, 111.6 mph, 94.9 mph and 91.5 mph on Saturday.“I feel like every time he gets up there, he’s hitting the ball hard somewhere,” Benintendi said. “Whether it be in the gap or right at someone, it’s just crazy to see how hard he hits the ball every time. He’s starting to get going these past two weeks or whatever it may be. If I’m on first, I feel like he’s either going to hit a homer or [one] in the gap for me to score.“I think as of late here, we’ve been hitting with guys in scoring position, two-out rallies, things like that that can kickstart our offense and give us momentum.”The uptick in offense hasn’t translated to many wins, but it was enough Saturday after ﻿<a href="https://www.mlb.com/player/663903" target="_blank">Brady Singer</a>﻿ struck out eight and gave up three runs in 5 1/3 innings, continuing his solid performance since returning from Triple-A Omaha two weeks ago.Lefty reliever Gabe Speier allowed two of those runs charged to Singer to score in the sixth, but the Royals’ bullpen held steady from there, including two scoreless innings from Dylan Coleman.The Royals had hoped this kind of offensive production would come with the warmer weather and larger sample size of at-bats, but behind the scenes, officials are seeing a better approach and better game-planning processes with their hitters, something they had hoped would translate when Alec Zumwalt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/royals/news/alec-zumwalt-in-charge-of-all-hitting-for-royals" target="_blank">took over as hitting coach</a>&nbsp;on May 16.The philosophy Zumwalt and the Royals have established in their hitting development program has been to swing at pitches hitters can do damage on, instead of chasing or softly hitting pitches that might be in the zone but won’t translate to damage.Better swing decisions have led to hitting the ball harder. Entering Saturday, the Royals are second in baseball since May 16 in average exit velocity at 90.9 mph. Their barrel percentage since then is 8.5%, which is eighth in baseball, and their hard-hit rate is ranked second at 44.3%.“We’ve had hard hits with bad luck, too,” Matheny said. “Now you’re starting to see the ball carry a little bit more. Everybody’s heating up. It’s a dangerous offense once we get things clicking. Everybody’s feeling good about themselves right now because they’ve all contributed.”CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Royals top Twins 7-3

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/wind-surge-lose-a-thriller">Via WindSurge.com</a>

Corpus Christi, TX- The Wind Surge fell short to the Corpus Christi Hooks 14-13 in an offensive shootout on Saturday night despite leading by seven runs.

The Hooks scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth off Surge Reliever Argenis Angulo to win the game. Bryan Arias singled and drove in the game winning run.

Leobaldo Cabrera hit a grand slam in the second inning that gave Wichita a 5-1 lead. Cabrera finished the night two for three with a walk and four RBIs.

Trailing 11-4 in the fourth inning, Corpus Christi scored five runs to cut the deficit to 11-9. Hooks third baseman Enmanuel Valdez finished the night two for two with three walks and three RBIs.

Corpus Christi scored three runs in the bottom of the seventh to take a 12-11 lead. Hooks infielder Yainer Diaz finished the night three for four with a walk.

Dennis Ortega hit a solo homer in the eighth that tied the game at 12. DeShawn Keirsey followed with an RBI single that scored Matt Wallner as the Surge took a 13-12 lead.

The Wind Surge trail Corpus Christi 3-2 in the series. The Wind Surge streak of winning six consecutive series will end.

The Wind Surge will play the sixth and final game of the series against the Corpus Christi Hooks Sunday for a 6:05 p.m. first pitch.

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/wind-surge-lose-a-thriller">Via WindSurge.com</a>Corpus Christi, TX- The Wind Surge fell short to the Corpus Christi Hooks 14-13 in an offensive shootout on Saturday night despite leading by seven runs.The Hooks scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth off Surge Reliever Argenis Angulo to win the game. Bryan Arias singled and drove in the game winning run.Leobaldo Cabrera hit a grand slam in the second inning that gave Wichita a 5-1 lead. Cabrera finished the night two for three with a walk and four RBIs.Trailing 11-4 in the fourth inning, Corpus Christi scored five runs to cut the deficit to 11-9. Hooks third baseman Enmanuel Valdez finished the night two for two with three walks and three RBIs.Corpus Christi scored three runs in the bottom of the seventh to take a 12-11 lead. Hooks infielder Yainer Diaz finished the night three for four with a walk.Dennis Ortega hit a solo homer in the eighth that tied the game at 12. DeShawn Keirsey followed with an RBI single that scored Matt Wallner as the Surge took a 13-12 lead.The Wind Surge trail Corpus Christi 3-2 in the series. The Wind Surge streak of winning six consecutive series will end.The Wind Surge will play the sixth and final game of the series against the Corpus Christi Hooks Sunday for a 6:05 p.m. first pitch.

Wind Surge loses Saturday

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Rookie Bobby Witt Jr. delivered three more doubles for his second straight three-hit game and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 7-3. 

A double shy of hitting for the cycle Friday, Witt doubled in his first two at-bats, both times driving home Andrew Benintendi. Witt added another double in the seventh inning. Of Witt’s 41 hits, 22 have been for extra bases, including a team-best 13 doubles. 

Hunter Dozier added three hits as the Royals won for just the second time in nine games. Minnesota has lost three of four. Luis Arraez and Carlos Correa had three hits and Trevor Larnach homered for the Twins.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Rookie Bobby Witt Jr. delivered three more doubles for his second straight three-hit game and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 7-3. A double shy of hitting for the cycle Friday, Witt doubled in his first two at-bats, both times driving home Andrew Benintendi. Witt added another double in the seventh inning. Of Witt’s 41 hits, 22 have been for extra bases, including a team-best 13 doubles. Hunter Dozier added three hits as the Royals won for just the second time in nine games. Minnesota has lost three of four. Luis Arraez and Carlos Correa had three hits and Trevor Larnach homered for the Twins.

Royals win Saturday

TOPEKA, Kan.—Congratulations to the Buhler High Girls soccer team and their runner-up finish at 4A-1A State.&nbsp; Buhler lost to Shawnee Mission-Bishop Miege Saturday in the State Championship 5-0.&nbsp; Buhler finished 12-8-1 on the year.&nbsp; McPherson finished 3rd in the State with a 3-2 victory over Topeka-Cair Paravel.&nbsp; McPherson finished 16-4-1 on the year.

TOPEKA, Kan.—Congratulations to the Buhler High Girls soccer team and their runner-up finish at 4A-1A State.&nbsp; Buhler lost to Shawnee Mission-Bishop Miege Saturday in the State Championship 5-0.&nbsp; Buhler finished 12-8-1 on the year.&nbsp; McPherson finished 3rd in the State with a 3-2 victory over Topeka-Cair Paravel.&nbsp; McPherson finished 16-4-1 on the year.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Buhler Girls Soccer drops Championship to Bishop Miege

Corpus Christi, TX- The Wind Surge defeated the Corpus Christi Hooks 8-6 on Friday night behind eight runs on eleven hits.

The Surge struck first as Dennis Ortega hit a two-run RBI single to give Wichita the early 2-0 lead. Ortega finished the night two for five with two RBIs. Austin Martin went three for five and stole his twentieth base of the season.

Wichita scored two more runs in the second, fifth, and sixth inning as Matt Wallner and Leobaldo Cabrera each hit two-run RBI singles that extended the lead to 8-1.

Corpus Christi scored three runs in the eighth to shrink the deficit to 8-6 as Emmanuel Valdez hit a two-run RBI single. The Hooks left a runner on first in the bottom of the ninth as Surge reliever Austin Schulfer closed out the game and earned his seventh save of the season.

Kody Funderburk earned his fifth win of the season pitching two and two third innings of relief.

Notes: Austin Martin recorded his 20th stolen base on the season…Chris Williams extended his hit streak to eleven games, matching the longest of the season by a Wichita player…Wind Surge hitters had 15 strikeouts, matching a season high.

The Wind Surge will resume action for game five of the six-game road trip against the Corpus Christi Hooks tonight for a 7:05 first pitch.

Corpus Christi, TX- The Wind Surge defeated the Corpus Christi Hooks 8-6 on Friday night behind eight runs on eleven hits.The Surge struck first as Dennis Ortega hit a two-run RBI single to give Wichita the early 2-0 lead. Ortega finished the night two for five with two RBIs. Austin Martin went three for five and stole his twentieth base of the season.Wichita scored two more runs in the second, fifth, and sixth inning as Matt Wallner and Leobaldo Cabrera each hit two-run RBI singles that extended the lead to 8-1.Corpus Christi scored three runs in the eighth to shrink the deficit to 8-6 as Emmanuel Valdez hit a two-run RBI single. The Hooks left a runner on first in the bottom of the ninth as Surge reliever Austin Schulfer closed out the game and earned his seventh save of the season.Kody Funderburk earned his fifth win of the season pitching two and two third innings of relief.Notes: Austin Martin recorded his 20th stolen base on the season…Chris Williams extended his hit streak to eleven games, matching the longest of the season by a Wichita player…Wind Surge hitters had 15 strikeouts, matching a season high.The Wind Surge will resume action for game five of the six-game road trip against the Corpus Christi Hooks tonight for a 7:05 first pitch.

Wind Surge win on road Friday

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jorge Polanco homered in a four-run first inning and Carlos Correa hit a go-ahead homer in the fourth to power the Minnesota Twins to a 10-7 win over the Kansas City Royals. 

Bobby Witt Jr. finished a double shy of the cycle for the Royals, who have lost seven of eight. Trevor Megill was credited with the win after pitching 2 2/3 scoreless innings. 

Emilio Pagán got the final out for his seventh save. Minnesota had a season-high 15 hits. MJ Melendez also homered for the Royals.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jorge Polanco homered in a four-run first inning and Carlos Correa hit a go-ahead homer in the fourth to power the Minnesota Twins to a 10-7 win over the Kansas City Royals. Bobby Witt Jr. finished a double shy of the cycle for the Royals, who have lost seven of eight. Trevor Megill was credited with the win after pitching 2 2/3 scoreless innings. Emilio Pagán got the final out for his seventh save. Minnesota had a season-high 15 hits. MJ Melendez also homered for the Royals.