ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Michael Massey hit a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals made three big defensive plays in the bottom half to beat the Tampa Bay Rays 3-2 on Friday night, ending a four-game skid.

Massey drove in automatic runner Michael A. Taylor, who had moved up to third on a groundball.

Scott Barlow (5-4) got the win in relief with help from catcher Salvador Perez, who threw out Roman Quinn on an attempted steal of third in the 10th. MJ Melendez, who had thrown out Taylor Walls attempting to stretch a single into a double for the first out of the inning, ended the game with a diving catch of Francisco Mejia's sinking liner in left field.

Jalen Beeks (2-3) took the loss for the Rays, who have won five of seven and are in position for an AL wild card.

Bobby Witt's 16th home run put the Royals up 2-0 in the third against Rays starter Shane McClanahan. But Kansas City got only one other runner as far as second base until Taylor started the 10th there.

Royals starter Brady Singer gave up two runs on five hits and four walks in six innings, striking out seven.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Michael Massey hit a sacrifice fly in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals made three big defensive plays in the bottom half to beat the Tampa Bay Rays 3-2 on Friday night, ending a four-game skid.Massey drove in automatic runner Michael A. Taylor, who had moved up to third on a groundball.Scott Barlow (5-4) got the win in relief with help from catcher Salvador Perez, who threw out Roman Quinn on an attempted steal of third in the 10th. MJ Melendez, who had thrown out Taylor Walls attempting to stretch a single into a double for the first out of the inning, ended the game with a diving catch of Francisco Mejia's sinking liner in left field.Jalen Beeks (2-3) took the loss for the Rays, who have won five of seven and are in position for an AL wild card.Bobby Witt's 16th home run put the Royals up 2-0 in the third against Rays starter Shane McClanahan. But Kansas City got only one other runner as far as second base until Taylor started the 10th there.Royals starter Brady Singer gave up two runs on five hits and four walks in six innings, striking out seven.

⚾ Royals D makes sac fly hold up Friday

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Friday Morning

The Kansas City Chiefs officially concluded training camp for 2022 in St. Joseph Thursday with a fairly short, half-padded practice.

The Chiefs held a 10-10-10 practice - 10 plays for the first-team offense, 10 for the first-team defense and then 10 minutes of special teams plays. They cycled through that order three times on a clear, cool morning with temperatures in the low 70s Thursday.

This marks the end of the 12th training camp held at Missouri Western State University. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, just like every other year, was sure to thank the University for all of their hard work getting ready for camp and then hosting the team for three weeks.

"We appreciate everything Missouri Western State University does for us," Reid said. "They roll out the red carpet. It's a great situation here."

In terms of on-the-field work, Reid felt that the 17 practices were overall productive and created strong competition across the board.

"They challenged each other and that's all you can ask for as a coach," he said. "I thought it was great for the young guys to see that and feel that. That you have to come out here every day in the right mindset."

Patrick Mahomes says a number of players jumped out to him over the last three or so weeks in camp.

"Chris Jones," he said right off the bat. "I mean, he was dominant. He's the first one I think of. I think the biggest thing with Chris this year was with the run and the pass. He was down there, dominating stuff, making tackles on the run game."

Certainly on the offensive end, everyone was curious to see how Mahomes would work with the plethora of new receivers, namely Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore. Justin Watson was also in the mix, while the tight ends also had a productive camp.

"Those receivers, in training camp and OTAs, there's a lot of routes run," Mahomes pointed out. "We practice fast. We keep things rolling, and they kind of have to be in and out. As you got to this middle part of camp, you could see it. They had their legs under them. They were running these routes."

Running back Jerick McKinnon returned to the field Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout with a hamstring injury. Chris Jones (back spasm), Mecole Hardman (groin spasm) and Juju Smith-Schuster (knee) did not practice, nor did Blake Bell (hip) or Lucas Niang (knee).

Niang spent the entirety of camp on the physically unable to perform list, as he recovers from offseason knee surgery.

Reid said Jones and Hardman are both "improving." He said also that Smith-Schuster is "making progress." It's not yet known if Jones or Hardman will play Saturday against Washington. Reid noted it's unlikely that Smith-Schuster will see action.

As for who&nbsp;will&nbsp;play in the game, Reid said the starters will play for most of the first half, with the third and fourth-string offense playing the entirety of the second.

Just like in last year's third preseason game against Minnesota, Chad Henne and the second-team offense will sit out to allow the younger players to get more reps.

Mahomes was very effective in the one drive he had last Saturday at Chicago, completing 6-of-7 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown to Blake Bell.

His goal for this Saturday's game remains the same.

"You want to move the ball down the field," Mahomes said. "Kind of move through the procedure of everything and hopefully you get at least one touchdown in there. I mean, our goal is to score every time we're on the field. You want to be in and out of the huddle the right way, moving the ball and executing the offense."

Saturday's game kicks off at 3 p.m. central.

This was the last required year that the Chiefs had to be at Missouri Western for training camp, per the current agreement, with two optional years left.

Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy told KFEQ Radio's&nbsp;The Hotline&nbsp;during camp that the university will officially begin negotiations with the Chiefs about exercising those two optional years in March.

The agreement is looked at and evaluated every year, and Kennedy notes how special it is for Missouri Western and St. Joseph to be in the Chiefs Kingdom spotlight for those three weeks.

"It really is just a really great atmosphere," Kennedy said. "We're happy to host it and I'm really happy to work with all of our different partners in our community who are so excited."

Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus has been to every training camp the last 29 years, including all of 12 of them in St. Joseph. He doesn't believe it's a coincidence that the Chiefs started becoming consistent postseason contenders shortly after moving camp to Missouri Western in 2010.

"We've had 11 camps in St. Joe and have been to the playoffs in eight of those 11 years," Holthus said. "I don't think it's a coincidence that the most successful nine years in Chiefs history, a lot of it is Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but this is where those seasons begin - right here on this campus and right here in this city."

"It's been fantastic for the team," Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt said in late July. "Andy and his staff really enjoy being here. They believe this environment is really conducive to getting the guys ready. The University has been very responsive over the course of our relationship in terms of making changes in order to help the experience be better."&nbsp;

"(The agreement) is something we'll evaluate once camp is done. We do that every year. Certainly, I hope we'll be back in the future."

Chiefs president Mark Donovan complimented Missouri Western and St. Joseph in July before camp even started, saying, "We love our partnership, we love our relationships, and we fully intend to continue to have those relationships.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660841686819.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs officially concluded training camp for 2022 in St. Joseph Thursday with a fairly short, half-padded practice.The Chiefs held a 10-10-10 practice - 10 plays for the first-team offense, 10 for the first-team defense and then 10 minutes of special teams plays. They cycled through that order three times on a clear, cool morning with temperatures in the low 70s Thursday.This marks the end of the 12th training camp held at Missouri Western State University. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, just like every other year, was sure to thank the University for all of their hard work getting ready for camp and then hosting the team for three weeks."We appreciate everything Missouri Western State University does for us," Reid said. "They roll out the red carpet. It's a great situation here."In terms of on-the-field work, Reid felt that the 17 practices were overall productive and created strong competition across the board."They challenged each other and that's all you can ask for as a coach," he said. "I thought it was great for the young guys to see that and feel that. That you have to come out here every day in the right mindset."Patrick Mahomes says a number of players jumped out to him over the last three or so weeks in camp."Chris Jones," he said right off the bat. "I mean, he was dominant. He's the first one I think of. I think the biggest thing with Chris this year was with the run and the pass. He was down there, dominating stuff, making tackles on the run game."Certainly on the offensive end, everyone was curious to see how Mahomes would work with the plethora of new receivers, namely Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore. Justin Watson was also in the mix, while the tight ends also had a productive camp."Those receivers, in training camp and OTAs, there's a lot of routes run," Mahomes pointed out. "We practice fast. We keep things rolling, and they kind of have to be in and out. As you got to this middle part of camp, you could see it. They had their legs under them. They were running these routes."Injury updateRunning back Jerick McKinnon returned to the field Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout with a hamstring injury. Chris Jones (back spasm), Mecole Hardman (groin spasm) and Juju Smith-Schuster (knee) did not practice, nor did Blake Bell (hip) or Lucas Niang (knee).Niang spent the entirety of camp on the physically unable to perform list, as he recovers from offseason knee surgery.Reid said Jones and Hardman are both "improving." He said also that Smith-Schuster is "making progress." It's not yet known if Jones or Hardman will play Saturday against Washington. Reid noted it's unlikely that Smith-Schuster will see action.As for who&nbsp;will&nbsp;play in the game, Reid said the starters will play for most of the first half, with the third and fourth-string offense playing the entirety of the second.Just like in last year's third preseason game against Minnesota, Chad Henne and the second-team offense will sit out to allow the younger players to get more reps.Mahomes was very effective in the one drive he had last Saturday at Chicago, completing 6-of-7 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown to Blake Bell.His goal for this Saturday's game remains the same."You want to move the ball down the field," Mahomes said. "Kind of move through the procedure of everything and hopefully you get at least one touchdown in there. I mean, our goal is to score every time we're on the field. You want to be in and out of the huddle the right way, moving the ball and executing the offense."Saturday's game kicks off at 3 p.m. central.Future in St. JosephThis was the last required year that the Chiefs had to be at Missouri Western for training camp, per the current agreement, with two optional years left.Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy told KFEQ Radio's&nbsp;The Hotline&nbsp;during camp that the university will officially begin negotiations with the Chiefs about exercising those two optional years in March.The agreement is looked at and evaluated every year, and Kennedy notes how special it is for Missouri Western and St. Joseph to be in the Chiefs Kingdom spotlight for those three weeks."It really is just a really great atmosphere," Kennedy said. "We're happy to host it and I'm really happy to work with all of our different partners in our community who are so excited."Voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus has been to every training camp the last 29 years, including all of 12 of them in St. Joseph. He doesn't believe it's a coincidence that the Chiefs started becoming consistent postseason contenders shortly after moving camp to Missouri Western in 2010."We've had 11 camps in St. Joe and have been to the playoffs in eight of those 11 years," Holthus said. "I don't think it's a coincidence that the most successful nine years in Chiefs history, a lot of it is Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but this is where those seasons begin - right here on this campus and right here in this city.""It's been fantastic for the team," Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt said in late July. "Andy and his staff really enjoy being here. They believe this environment is really conducive to getting the guys ready. The University has been very responsive over the course of our relationship in terms of making changes in order to help the experience be better."&nbsp;"(The agreement) is something we'll evaluate once camp is done. We do that every year. Certainly, I hope we'll be back in the future."Chiefs president Mark Donovan complimented Missouri Western and St. Joseph in July before camp even started, saying, "We love our partnership, we love our relationships, and we fully intend to continue to have those relationships.”<figure>
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🏈 Chiefs end training camp in St. Joseph Thursday with short practice

WICHITA, Kan.–The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will host the 85th Annual Hatchet Rivalry at Riverfront Stadium featuring the Dodge City Red Demons and Garden City Buffaloes. The game will be played on Saturday, October 15 at 6 pm.

"We are excited to host two outstanding programs from Western Kansas at Riverfront Stadium this fall," said Jordan Kobritz, CEO of the Wind Surge. "The game was scheduled so as not to conflict with the local high school football schedule. It will give local football fans an additional opportunity to watch high school football at its best in downtown Wichita."

"The Hatchet Game is the most notable rivalry in the western part of the state and it's great that we will be able to showcase this event at an amazing facility like Riverfront Stadium," said Drew Thon, Athletic Director of Garden City High School. "The experience that it will provide for our students, community, and alumni will be second to none."

"What an opportunity for Dodge City to showcase our football program, Pride of Southwest Kansas (DCHS Band), Drill Team, and Cheer program to the city of Wichita and state of Kansas," said Jay Gifford, Athletic Director of Dodge City High School. "We have a tradition of finding opportunities to showcase our many talented students. We are so excited to give our students this memory that will stay with them long after they graduate."

Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office located at 275 S. McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67213.

WICHITA, Kan.–The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will host the 85th Annual Hatchet Rivalry at Riverfront Stadium featuring the Dodge City Red Demons and Garden City Buffaloes. The game will be played on Saturday, October 15 at 6 pm."We are excited to host two outstanding programs from Western Kansas at Riverfront Stadium this fall," said Jordan Kobritz, CEO of the Wind Surge. "The game was scheduled so as not to conflict with the local high school football schedule. It will give local football fans an additional opportunity to watch high school football at its best in downtown Wichita.""The Hatchet Game is the most notable rivalry in the western part of the state and it's great that we will be able to showcase this event at an amazing facility like Riverfront Stadium," said Drew Thon, Athletic Director of Garden City High School. "The experience that it will provide for our students, community, and alumni will be second to none.""What an opportunity for Dodge City to showcase our football program, Pride of Southwest Kansas (DCHS Band), Drill Team, and Cheer program to the city of Wichita and state of Kansas," said Jay Gifford, Athletic Director of Dodge City High School. "We have a tradition of finding opportunities to showcase our many talented students. We are so excited to give our students this memory that will stay with them long after they graduate."Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office located at 275 S. McLean Blvd, Wichita, KS 67213.

🏈 Wichita Wind Surge to Host 85th Annual Hatchet Rivalry in October

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Luis Patiño pitched strongly into the sixth inning, Yandy Díaz drove in three runs, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1. Tampa Bay started the day tied with Toronto for the second AL wild card. The Rays have won five of six. Patiño was recalled from Triple-A Durham to make his first big league appearance since July 23. He gave up four hits in 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Díaz homered on the second pitch from Max Castillo leading off the first, and had a two-run double during a during a five-run seventh off Brad Keller.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Albert Pujols launched a pinch-hit grand slam and drove in five runs, Adam Wainwright pitched seven sharp innings and the St. Louis Cardinals routed the Colorado Rockies 13-0 for a three-game sweep. The Rockies lost starting pitcher Antonio Senzatela and right fielder Charlie Blackmon in the second inning to leg injuries. Senzatela crumpled to the ground after attempting to cover first base and Blackmon was removed an inning after beating out an infield single. The NL Central-leading Cardinals won their fourth in a row and sent Colorado to its fifth straight loss. Pujols hit his 690th career home run. It was his 16th grand slam, tying him with Hank Aaron, Babe Ruth and Dave Kingman for 10th-most of all-time. Wainwright gave up three hits, struck out seven and walked none.

UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten has announced its new, seven-year media rights deal with Fox, NBC and CBS that is believed to be the richest ever struck with a college sports conference. A person familiar with the contracts tells The Associated Press that the conference's soon-to-be 16 member universities eventually will share more than $1 billion in revenue per year. Starting in 2024, when USC and UCLA join the conference, Big Ten football Saturdays will be structured similar to the NFL. That means three marquee games being carried in consecutive time slots on three different major TV networks.

UNDATED (AP) — NCAA officials have sent a letter to members updating them on enforcement’s staff pursuit of “potential violations” of the name, image and likeness compensation policy. The association emphasized the need for schools to aid investigations. The email says NCAA enforcement staff is “actively investigating potential abuses of NIL transactions and we’ll allege any substantiated concerns as soon as possible.” The NCAA in 2020 lifted its ban on athletes earning money for things like endorsement and sponsorship deals, social media posts and personal appearances.

BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will serve an 11-game unpaid suspension, pay a $5 million fine and undergo required professional evaluation and counseling following accusations of sexual misconduct by two dozen women. Watson was accused of sexually harassing and coercing women during massage therapy sessions while he played for the Houston Texans. The league had sought to ban him for at least one year for violating its personal conduct policy. Watson's suspension begins Aug. 30, when he won't be allowed at the team’s facility. He may return for the Browns’ game on Dec. 4 in Houston. Cleveland traded for the three-time Pro Bowler in March, signing him to a fully guaranteed $230 million contract.

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Keegan Bradley hasn’t been to the FedEx Cup finale in four years. He started the BMW Championship like he was in a hurry to get back. Bradley tied a personal best with a 29 on the front nine a Wilmington Country Club on his way to a 64. That gives him a one-shot lead over Adam Scott. Both are in the same boat. They are outside the top 30 who make it to the Tour Championship in Atlanta to chase the $18 million prize. Justin Thomas and Shane Lowry were among those two shots behind.

SEATTLE (AP) — Geno Smith did little to distinguish himself in his battle with Drew Lock for Seattle’s starting quarterback job as the sloppy Seahawks fell 27-11 to the Chicago Bears in the second preseason game for both teams. The Seahawks had planned to start Lock but turned to Smith when Lock tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday. That meant another opportunity for Smith, but his uninspired performance suggests Lock still has a chance to win the job. Smith finished 10 of 18 for 112 yards and was hampered by teammates’ mistakes while playing the first half. Second-year Bears quarterback Justin Fields made a brief appearance and led a field-goal drive.

ATLANTA (AP) — Jared Bernhardt has traded in his stick for the pigskin. Just two years after being honored as the nation’s top college lacrosse player, Bernhardt is trying to make it as an NFL receiver with the Atlanta Falcons. If this were a lacrosse team, the 24-year-old Bernhardt would undoubtedly be one of their best players. He starred for five seasons at Maryland, where he helped the Terrapins to a national championship as a freshman and was honored with the sport’s version of the Heisman Trophy after his record-setting senior year. Now, he’s the longest of long shots on the gridiron.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Luis Patiño pitched strongly into the sixth inning, Yandy Díaz drove in three runs, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1. Tampa Bay started the day tied with Toronto for the second AL wild card. The Rays have won five of six. Patiño was recalled from Triple-A Durham to make his first big league appearance since July 23. He gave up four hits in 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Díaz homered on the second pitch from Max Castillo leading off the first, and had a two-run double during a during a five-run seventh off Brad Keller.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Albert Pujols launched a pinch-hit grand slam and drove in five runs, Adam Wainwright pitched seven sharp innings and the St. Louis Cardinals routed the Colorado Rockies 13-0 for a three-game sweep. The Rockies lost starting pitcher Antonio Senzatela and right fielder Charlie Blackmon in the second inning to leg injuries. Senzatela crumpled to the ground after attempting to cover first base and Blackmon was removed an inning after beating out an infield single. The NL Central-leading Cardinals won their fourth in a row and sent Colorado to its fifth straight loss. Pujols hit his 690th career home run. It was his 16th grand slam, tying him with Hank Aaron, Babe Ruth and Dave Kingman for 10th-most of all-time. Wainwright gave up three hits, struck out seven and walked none.UNDATED (AP) — The Big Ten has announced its new, seven-year media rights deal with Fox, NBC and CBS that is believed to be the richest ever struck with a college sports conference. A person familiar with the contracts tells The Associated Press that the conference's soon-to-be 16 member universities eventually will share more than $1 billion in revenue per year. Starting in 2024, when USC and UCLA join the conference, Big Ten football Saturdays will be structured similar to the NFL. That means three marquee games being carried in consecutive time slots on three different major TV networks.UNDATED (AP) — NCAA officials have sent a letter to members updating them on enforcement’s staff pursuit of “potential violations” of the name, image and likeness compensation policy. The association emphasized the need for schools to aid investigations. The email says NCAA enforcement staff is “actively investigating potential abuses of NIL transactions and we’ll allege any substantiated concerns as soon as possible.” The NCAA in 2020 lifted its ban on athletes earning money for things like endorsement and sponsorship deals, social media posts and personal appearances.BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will serve an 11-game unpaid suspension, pay a $5 million fine and undergo required professional evaluation and counseling following accusations of sexual misconduct by two dozen women. Watson was accused of sexually harassing and coercing women during massage therapy sessions while he played for the Houston Texans. The league had sought to ban him for at least one year for violating its personal conduct policy. Watson's suspension begins Aug. 30, when he won't be allowed at the team’s facility. He may return for the Browns’ game on Dec. 4 in Houston. Cleveland traded for the three-time Pro Bowler in March, signing him to a fully guaranteed $230 million contract.WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Keegan Bradley hasn’t been to the FedEx Cup finale in four years. He started the BMW Championship like he was in a hurry to get back. Bradley tied a personal best with a 29 on the front nine a Wilmington Country Club on his way to a 64. That gives him a one-shot lead over Adam Scott. Both are in the same boat. They are outside the top 30 who make it to the Tour Championship in Atlanta to chase the $18 million prize. Justin Thomas and Shane Lowry were among those two shots behind.SEATTLE (AP) — Geno Smith did little to distinguish himself in his battle with Drew Lock for Seattle’s starting quarterback job as the sloppy Seahawks fell 27-11 to the Chicago Bears in the second preseason game for both teams. The Seahawks had planned to start Lock but turned to Smith when Lock tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday. That meant another opportunity for Smith, but his uninspired performance suggests Lock still has a chance to win the job. Smith finished 10 of 18 for 112 yards and was hampered by teammates’ mistakes while playing the first half. Second-year Bears quarterback Justin Fields made a brief appearance and led a field-goal drive.ATLANTA (AP) — Jared Bernhardt has traded in his stick for the pigskin. Just two years after being honored as the nation’s top college lacrosse player, Bernhardt is trying to make it as an NFL receiver with the Atlanta Falcons. If this were a lacrosse team, the 24-year-old Bernhardt would undoubtedly be one of their best players. He starred for five seasons at Maryland, where he helped the Terrapins to a national championship as a freshman and was honored with the sport’s version of the Heisman Trophy after his record-setting senior year. Now, he’s the longest of long shots on the gridiron.THURSDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal Chicago Cubs 3 Baltimore 2Final Pittsburgh 8 Boston 2AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Texas 10 Oakland 3Final Houston 21 Chicago White Sox 5Final Tampa Bay 7 Kansas City 1Final Toronto 9 N.Y. Yankees 2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal St. Louis 13 Colorado 0Final Milwaukee 5 L.A. Dodgers 3Final Arizona 5 San Francisco 0Final Atlanta 3 N.Y. Mets 2Final Washington 3 San Diego 1NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE PRESEASONFinal Chicago 27 Seattle 11

Sports Headlines for Friday

Wichita, KS - Nick Nastrini’s six and two thirds innings pitched in his Double-A debut led the Drillers to a 7-1 victory over the Wind Surge on Thursday night as Wichita’s six game winning streak was snapped.

Brent Headrick made his third start on the mound for the Surge this season and pitched five innings, allowing four runs on six hits, and tallied ten strikeouts before being relieved in the sixth inning.

The Drillers broke the tie in the top of the fourth inning behind a home run from Andy Pages that gave Tulsa a 1-0 lead. Ismael Alcantara extended Tulsa’s lead to 4-0 on a three-run homer in the top of the fifth inning. Nastrini earned the win on the mound in his debut for the Drillers and pitched six and two thirds innings, allowing only one run on one hit.

Aaron Sabato finished one for four with an RBI in the game including a home run in the seventh inning that shrunk Tulsa’s lead to 4-1.

The Drillers added two insurance runs in the ninth inning as Kenneth Betancourt scored on a throwing error by Jair Camargo and Leonel Valera followed with a run scored on a wild pitch that extended the Drillers lead to 7-1.

The Surge comeback fell short as Wichita scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth from a two-run RBI single from Cole Sturgeon that cut the deficit to 7-3.

Wichita remains in first place by 5½ games over Springfield in the second half.

Wichita, KS - Nick Nastrini’s six and two thirds innings pitched in his Double-A debut led the Drillers to a 7-1 victory over the Wind Surge on Thursday night as Wichita’s six game winning streak was snapped.Brent Headrick made his third start on the mound for the Surge this season and pitched five innings, allowing four runs on six hits, and tallied ten strikeouts before being relieved in the sixth inning.The Drillers broke the tie in the top of the fourth inning behind a home run from Andy Pages that gave Tulsa a 1-0 lead. Ismael Alcantara extended Tulsa’s lead to 4-0 on a three-run homer in the top of the fifth inning. Nastrini earned the win on the mound in his debut for the Drillers and pitched six and two thirds innings, allowing only one run on one hit.Aaron Sabato finished one for four with an RBI in the game including a home run in the seventh inning that shrunk Tulsa’s lead to 4-1.The Drillers added two insurance runs in the ninth inning as Kenneth Betancourt scored on a throwing error by Jair Camargo and Leonel Valera followed with a run scored on a wild pitch that extended the Drillers lead to 7-1.The Surge comeback fell short as Wichita scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth from a two-run RBI single from Cole Sturgeon that cut the deficit to 7-3.Wichita remains in first place by 5½ games over Springfield in the second half.

⚾ Surge lose Thursday to Tulsa

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports Information

The Hutchinson Community College volleyball team has always played a tough, aggressive non-conference schedule.

The 2022 Blue Dragons are upholding that tradition, and then some, with four nationally ranked opponents, including Nos. 1 and 3 in the preseason rankings, at this weekend’s season-opening Iowa Western Reiver Classic in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Head coach Delice Downing’s third season starts with No. 19 Indian Hills and No. 12 Jefferson College on Friday. Things get tougher on Saturday morning with No. 3 Missouri State-West Plains and defending national champion, No. 1 Iowa Western on Saturday.

“Our first tournament is one for the books,” said Downing, who is 37-26 in her first two seasons at Hutchinson. Downing remains No. 3 Jayhawk Conference Volleyball coaching history with a 17-year record of 469-201.

Downing returns six sophomores from a 19-16 team that finished sixth in the Jayhawk West and fell in the opening round of the Region VI Tournament.

The 2022 Blue Dragons were picked sixth in the preseason coaches’ poll released on Wednesday. Seward County was picked to win the league followed by defending league and region champion Butler, Barton, Colby and Dodge City.

“We have 2 of our top 3 attackers back from last season and one of our top setters,” Downing said. “We are looking to build our offense with explosive power and finesse.”

Pin hitters Blondie Penaflor and Sophie Connor were offensive leaders as freshmen Blue Dragons.

Penaflor (6’0, outside hitter, Las Vegas) was a second-team all-Jayhawk West performer in 2021. She hit .217 and averaged 2.38 kills and 0.56 blocks per set as a freshman. Connor (5’10, outside hitter, Derby) hit .161 with 2.29 kills per set. Connor also averaged 1.92 digs per set.

Right-side hitter Baylee Miller (6-0, Maize) had some big moments as a freshman. Overall, she hit .147 with 1.31 kills per set. Also back is right-side hitter Morgan Harvey (5-8, Hoyt, KS) averaged 1.50 kills on .143 hitting and 1.72 digs per set.

Returning starting setter Andrea Serrano (5’6, Arecibo, Puerto Rico) averaged 7.22 assists per set in Hutchinson’s 6-2 offense. She also brings 32 service aces and 1.96 digs per set.

Middle blocker Chloe Conway (5-10, Concordia, KS) returns with 0.63 blocks per set last season. Conway hit .185 in limited duty last season.

The Blue Dragons look to improve an offense that averaged 11.32 kills per set and hit only .173 as a team. The Dragons did average 1.92 services aces and 15.14 digs per set. The Dragons hope to improve their overall block, which averaged 1.94 team blocks per set last season.

To go with the returning players are 11 incoming freshmen who, according to Downing, have “a ton of high-level talent.”

Now Downing will try to mesh things together for an improved 2022 season.

“We are excited to see how this group comes together, because no matter how much talent you have, they have to buy in, accept the work that needs to be put in to be successful and step out of the box to build a family,” Downing said. “Preseason was a grind and some girls have already started the family process.”

The Blue Dragons open the 2022 home season on Monday with a triangular against the Ottawa University JV, Neosho County and the Bethel College JV at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

STEVE CARPENTER HutchCC Sports InformationThe Hutchinson Community College volleyball team has always played a tough, aggressive non-conference schedule.The 2022 Blue Dragons are upholding that tradition, and then some, with four nationally ranked opponents, including Nos. 1 and 3 in the preseason rankings, at this weekend’s season-opening Iowa Western Reiver Classic in Council Bluffs, Iowa.Head coach Delice Downing’s third season starts with No. 19 Indian Hills and No. 12 Jefferson College on Friday. Things get tougher on Saturday morning with No. 3 Missouri State-West Plains and defending national champion, No. 1 Iowa Western on Saturday.“Our first tournament is one for the books,” said Downing, who is 37-26 in her first two seasons at Hutchinson. Downing remains No. 3 Jayhawk Conference Volleyball coaching history with a 17-year record of 469-201.Downing returns six sophomores from a 19-16 team that finished sixth in the Jayhawk West and fell in the opening round of the Region VI Tournament.The 2022 Blue Dragons were picked sixth in the preseason coaches’ poll released on Wednesday. Seward County was picked to win the league followed by defending league and region champion Butler, Barton, Colby and Dodge City.“We have 2 of our top 3 attackers back from last season and one of our top setters,” Downing said. “We are looking to build our offense with explosive power and finesse.”Pin hitters Blondie Penaflor and Sophie Connor were offensive leaders as freshmen Blue Dragons.Penaflor (6’0, outside hitter, Las Vegas) was a second-team all-Jayhawk West performer in 2021. She hit .217 and averaged 2.38 kills and 0.56 blocks per set as a freshman. Connor (5’10, outside hitter, Derby) hit .161 with 2.29 kills per set. Connor also averaged 1.92 digs per set.Right-side hitter Baylee Miller (6-0, Maize) had some big moments as a freshman. Overall, she hit .147 with 1.31 kills per set. Also back is right-side hitter Morgan Harvey (5-8, Hoyt, KS) averaged 1.50 kills on .143 hitting and 1.72 digs per set.Returning starting setter Andrea Serrano (5’6, Arecibo, Puerto Rico) averaged 7.22 assists per set in Hutchinson’s 6-2 offense. She also brings 32 service aces and 1.96 digs per set.Middle blocker Chloe Conway (5-10, Concordia, KS) returns with 0.63 blocks per set last season. Conway hit .185 in limited duty last season.The Blue Dragons look to improve an offense that averaged 11.32 kills per set and hit only .173 as a team. The Dragons did average 1.92 services aces and 15.14 digs per set. The Dragons hope to improve their overall block, which averaged 1.94 team blocks per set last season.To go with the returning players are 11 incoming freshmen who, according to Downing, have “a ton of high-level talent.”Now Downing will try to mesh things together for an improved 2022 season.“We are excited to see how this group comes together, because no matter how much talent you have, they have to buy in, accept the work that needs to be put in to be successful and step out of the box to build a family,” Downing said. “Preseason was a grind and some girls have already started the family process.”The Blue Dragons open the 2022 home season on Monday with a triangular against the Ottawa University JV, Neosho County and the Bethel College JV at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. at the Sports Arena.

🏐 HutchCC Volleyball opens this weekend in Iowa

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Luis Patiño pitched strongly into the sixth inning, Yandy Díaz drove in three runs, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1 on Thursday night.

Tampa Bay, which is tied with Toronto for the second AL wild card, has won five of six.

Patiño (1-1), recalled from Triple-A Durham to make his first big league appearance since July 23, gave up four hits in 5 2/3 scoreless innings. He went on the 60-day injured list following a left oblique strain in April.

“I felt really good," Patiño said through a translator. “I've been in the process of being able to recover from my injuries. Confidence has definitely gone up.”

Patiño gave up three runs and seven hits in four innings at Kansas City on July 23. The right-hander is the Rays' major league-leading 22nd pitcher to win a game this season.

“Kept us off balance,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He's got good stuff. Breaking ball is sharp, good velocity. Couldn't really predict where he was going to go and didn't make a lot of mistakes."

Díaz homered on the second pitch from Max Castillo (0-1) leading off the first, and had a two-run double during a during a five-run seventh off Brad Keller.

Michael Massey hit his first major league homer leading off the eighth against Shawn Armstrong to stop the Royals' scoreless streak at 33 innings. Kansas City, blanked by Minnesota in its previous two games, avoided being shut out in three straight for the second time this season.

Castillo allowed one run and three hits, including two on bunts, in five innings. The right-hander was acquired from Toronto in the Whit Merrifield trade on Aug. 2 and recalled from Triple-A Omaha to make the start after Keller was shifted to the bullpen on Wednesday.

“Really impressive,” Matheny said. “Couldn't have expected any more than what he did.”

Keller, who went 6-13 in 22 starts this year, entered with one out in the seventh and allowed six consecutive hits, including Díaz's double that bounced over the head of third baseman Bobby Witt Jr. He allowed five runs, six hits and threw a run-scoring wild pitch in two-thirds of an inning.

Roman Quinn had the second hit in the seventh and took advantage of the shift to get a huge lead off first. He advanced to second on Jose Siri's infield single that shortstop Nicky Lopez fielded. Lopez looked at second before making a late throw to first.

“Roman Quinn's baserunning set up that entire inning,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Just very, very heads up. We weren't knocking the ball all over the place. Keller gave up I think six or seven groundballs that inning.”

Christian Bethancourt had a solo homer in the eighth that made it 7-1.

Kansas City designated hitter Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 3 with a walk and had his nine-game hitting streak that included five homers end. Salvador Perez walked twice, giving him 12 in 78 games this year.

The Rays arrived in the Tampa area around 5 a.m. after Wednesday night’s 8-7, 10-inning loss to the New York Yankees.

Outfielder David Peralta normally doesn’t sleep on the plane but did this time and said he was snoring so loudly he woke himself up.

Asked before the game if he thought the players were tired, Cash said, “No.”

Royals: RF Hunter Dozier was reinstated from the paternity list.

Rays: SS Wander Franco (right hamate bone surgery) sat out his second consecutive game with Triple-A Durham after departing his first rehab game Tuesday with hand soreness. Cash said Franco will take grounders Friday. ... OF Manuel Margot (right patellar strain) is expected to be activated Saturday. ... LHP Brendan McKay (thoracic outlet syndrome surgery) allowed two runs and two hits over four innings for Durham.

Royals: RHP Brady Singer (6-4), coming off a one-hit, six-inning outing Sunday in a 4-0 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, starts Friday night against the Rays' Shane McClanahan (11-5), the AL All-Star Game starter.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Luis Patiño pitched strongly into the sixth inning, Yandy Díaz drove in three runs, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 7-1 on Thursday night.Tampa Bay, which is tied with Toronto for the second AL wild card, has won five of six.Patiño (1-1), recalled from Triple-A Durham to make his first big league appearance since July 23, gave up four hits in 5 2/3 scoreless innings. He went on the 60-day injured list following a left oblique strain in April.“I felt really good," Patiño said through a translator. “I've been in the process of being able to recover from my injuries. Confidence has definitely gone up.”Patiño gave up three runs and seven hits in four innings at Kansas City on July 23. The right-hander is the Rays' major league-leading 22nd pitcher to win a game this season.“Kept us off balance,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “He's got good stuff. Breaking ball is sharp, good velocity. Couldn't really predict where he was going to go and didn't make a lot of mistakes."Díaz homered on the second pitch from Max Castillo (0-1) leading off the first, and had a two-run double during a during a five-run seventh off Brad Keller.Michael Massey hit his first major league homer leading off the eighth against Shawn Armstrong to stop the Royals' scoreless streak at 33 innings. Kansas City, blanked by Minnesota in its previous two games, avoided being shut out in three straight for the second time this season.Castillo allowed one run and three hits, including two on bunts, in five innings. The right-hander was acquired from Toronto in the Whit Merrifield trade on Aug. 2 and recalled from Triple-A Omaha to make the start after Keller was shifted to the bullpen on Wednesday.“Really impressive,” Matheny said. “Couldn't have expected any more than what he did.”Keller, who went 6-13 in 22 starts this year, entered with one out in the seventh and allowed six consecutive hits, including Díaz's double that bounced over the head of third baseman Bobby Witt Jr. He allowed five runs, six hits and threw a run-scoring wild pitch in two-thirds of an inning.Roman Quinn had the second hit in the seventh and took advantage of the shift to get a huge lead off first. He advanced to second on Jose Siri's infield single that shortstop Nicky Lopez fielded. Lopez looked at second before making a late throw to first.“Roman Quinn's baserunning set up that entire inning,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Just very, very heads up. We weren't knocking the ball all over the place. Keller gave up I think six or seven groundballs that inning.”Christian Bethancourt had a solo homer in the eighth that made it 7-1.Kansas City designated hitter Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 3 with a walk and had his nine-game hitting streak that included five homers end. Salvador Perez walked twice, giving him 12 in 78 games this year.LATE ARRIVALThe Rays arrived in the Tampa area around 5 a.m. after Wednesday night’s 8-7, 10-inning loss to the New York Yankees.Outfielder David Peralta normally doesn’t sleep on the plane but did this time and said he was snoring so loudly he woke himself up.Asked before the game if he thought the players were tired, Cash said, “No.”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RF Hunter Dozier was reinstated from the paternity list.Rays: SS Wander Franco (right hamate bone surgery) sat out his second consecutive game with Triple-A Durham after departing his first rehab game Tuesday with hand soreness. Cash said Franco will take grounders Friday. ... OF Manuel Margot (right patellar strain) is expected to be activated Saturday. ... LHP Brendan McKay (thoracic outlet syndrome surgery) allowed two runs and two hits over four innings for Durham.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Brady Singer (6-4), coming off a one-hit, six-inning outing Sunday in a 4-0 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, starts Friday night against the Rays' Shane McClanahan (11-5), the AL All-Star Game starter.

⚾ Luis Patiño strong in return, Rays beat Royals 7-1

TOPEKA (AP) — Sports fans who want to bet on their favorite teams should be able to make their wagers in Kansas beginning Sept. 1 if some final regulatory details are worked out, state officials announced Thursday.

The four state-owned casinos in Kansas will have a tentative “soft launch” of sports betting at noon Sept. 1, with an official launch on Sept. 8, Kansas Lottery executive director Stephen Durrell said in a video announcement.

Durrell said several regulatory and administrative hurdles remained to make the launch a reality “but we’re hopeful we can get there.”

After years of debate, the Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-sports-professional-football-0f896b5eff7b9fdd0f0ca0b19e5825f1">approved legalized sports betting</a>&nbsp;this spring and Gov. Laura Kelly signed the law in May. The Kansas Gaming and Racing Commission approved sports betting regulations last week.

Kelly said casinos in Dodge City, Mulvane, Pittsburg and Kansas City, Kansas, are being granted one-year provisional licenses under temporary rules and regulations to begin accepting bets.

State officials have said they hoped to have legalized gambling available in time for the first NFL football game on Sept. 8.

The law allows people to use cellphones or computer apps to bet on sporting events at the four casinos or up to 50 other locations chosen by each casino. Betting in fantasy sports leagues already was legal.

Tribal casinos are working with state officials on contracts and will be allowed to begin accepting sports bets “as soon as they are ready,” Kelly said.

A spokesman for Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said the office has identified “significant legal issues” with regulations proposed by the Kansas Lottery. The office typically reviews proposed regulations to ensure they do not conflict with any statutory or other legal requirements.

Spokesman John Milburn said in a news release that the office is “aware of the urgency” of the matter and has expedited and nearly completed its initial review of the Lottery's proposed regulations. He did not elaborate on the potential problems.

The office will provide feedback to Lottery “within days” and give the agency the opportunity to correct the legal problems.

"We intend to approve these regulations as soon as the agency fixes the legal problems in their initial version,” Milburn said.

The law imposed a 10% state tax on the bets, with a majority of the expected revenue — perhaps $5 million a year — dedicated to efforts to lure the Kansas City Chiefs from Missouri to Kansas.

“Legalizing sports betting is a common-sense solution that keeps Kansans’ money in Kansas and drives business to sporting events, casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues,” Kelly said. “I want to thank all our partners for working with us to get this done in time for football season.”

The Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane sued the state over a provision in the new law that would allow new gambling devices at the nearby Wichita Greyhound Park in an effort to revive the track that closed in 2007.

The casino argues the state is breaching its contract, which says the lottery will not permit competition from similar facilities in the Wichita area. The lawsuit is pending in Shawnee County and the state is seeking to have it dismissed.

TOPEKA (AP) — Sports fans who want to bet on their favorite teams should be able to make their wagers in Kansas beginning Sept. 1 if some final regulatory details are worked out, state officials announced Thursday.The four state-owned casinos in Kansas will have a tentative “soft launch” of sports betting at noon Sept. 1, with an official launch on Sept. 8, Kansas Lottery executive director Stephen Durrell said in a video announcement.Durrell said several regulatory and administrative hurdles remained to make the launch a reality “but we’re hopeful we can get there.”After years of debate, the Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-nfl-sports-professional-football-0f896b5eff7b9fdd0f0ca0b19e5825f1">approved legalized sports betting</a>&nbsp;this spring and Gov. Laura Kelly signed the law in May. The Kansas Gaming and Racing Commission approved sports betting regulations last week.Kelly said casinos in Dodge City, Mulvane, Pittsburg and Kansas City, Kansas, are being granted one-year provisional licenses under temporary rules and regulations to begin accepting bets.State officials have said they hoped to have legalized gambling available in time for the first NFL football game on Sept. 8.The law allows people to use cellphones or computer apps to bet on sporting events at the four casinos or up to 50 other locations chosen by each casino. Betting in fantasy sports leagues already was legal.Tribal casinos are working with state officials on contracts and will be allowed to begin accepting sports bets “as soon as they are ready,” Kelly said.A spokesman for Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said the office has identified “significant legal issues” with regulations proposed by the Kansas Lottery. The office typically reviews proposed regulations to ensure they do not conflict with any statutory or other legal requirements.Spokesman John Milburn said in a news release that the office is “aware of the urgency” of the matter and has expedited and nearly completed its initial review of the Lottery's proposed regulations. He did not elaborate on the potential problems.The office will provide feedback to Lottery “within days” and give the agency the opportunity to correct the legal problems."We intend to approve these regulations as soon as the agency fixes the legal problems in their initial version,” Milburn said.The law imposed a 10% state tax on the bets, with a majority of the expected revenue — perhaps $5 million a year — dedicated to efforts to lure the Kansas City Chiefs from Missouri to Kansas.“Legalizing sports betting is a common-sense solution that keeps Kansans’ money in Kansas and drives business to sporting events, casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues,” Kelly said. “I want to thank all our partners for working with us to get this done in time for football season.”The Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane sued the state over a provision in the new law that would allow new gambling devices at the nearby Wichita Greyhound Park in an effort to revive the track that closed in 2007.The casino argues the state is breaching its contract, which says the lottery will not permit competition from similar facilities in the Wichita area. The lawsuit is pending in Shawnee County and the state is seeking to have it dismissed.

Sports betting to start September 1

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Thursday Morning

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 for a three-game sweep. Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. After Mahle left in the third, Pagán, Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery picked up his third win in as many starts with St. Louis, and Nolan Gorman drove in three runs to lead the Cardinals to a 5-1 win over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday night. St. Louis won for the 12th time in 13 home games and beat Colorado for the 11th straight time at home while improving to a season-best 14 games over .500 at 65-51. Colorado lost its fourth in a row and has dropped 18 of 26 since the All-Star break.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, starting wide receiver Mecole Hardman and backup running back Jerick McKinnon left training camp early Wednesday as nagging injuries continued to mount for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jones left after about 10 minutes with a sore back while Hardman, who is being counted upon to help overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill, hurt his groin while going up for a catch in the end zone. McKinnon left with a hamstring injury. They were joined on the sideline by wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, who missed his second practice with a sore knee.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 for a three-game sweep. Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. After Mahle left in the third, Pagán, Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh. ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery picked up his third win in as many starts with St. Louis, and Nolan Gorman drove in three runs to lead the Cardinals to a 5-1 win over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday night. St. Louis won for the 12th time in 13 home games and beat Colorado for the 11th straight time at home while improving to a season-best 14 games over .500 at 65-51. Colorado lost its fourth in a row and has dropped 18 of 26 since the All-Star break. ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, starting wide receiver Mecole Hardman and backup running back Jerick McKinnon left training camp early Wednesday as nagging injuries continued to mount for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jones left after about 10 minutes with a sore back while Hardman, who is being counted upon to help overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill, hurt his groin while going up for a catch in the end zone. McKinnon left with a hamstring injury. They were joined on the sideline by wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, who missed his second practice with a sore knee.

CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow says he's trying to gain back the weight and strength he lost after having surgery to remove his ruptured appendix three weeks ago. The goal is for the QB to be mobile and sharp by the time Cincinnati opens the regular season on Sept. 11 against AFC North rival Pittsburgh. The 25-year-old Burrow said he feels better every day, but doesn't expect to play in the two remaining preseason games. Coach Zac Taylor said the remaining team practices will be designed to get Burrow ready to go for Week 1.

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Brent Venables has shown steady, early confidence as Oklahoma’s new head football coach. Those who work with him say that shouldn't be a surprise. Retired coaches Bill Snyder of Kansas State and Bob Stoops of Oklahoma both say Venables has learned a lot in his years as an assistant. Venables most recently was defensive coordinator for national powerhouse Clemson. Now he takes over the Sooners. No. 9 Oklahoma hosts UTEP in the season opener next month.

UNDATED (AP) — Two people familiar with the negotiations tell the AP that talks between the NFL and NFL Players Association on a discipline settlement for Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson have progressed. It's uncertain whether the two sides will reach a deal. The sides are seeking a compromise before any punishment is handed down by Peter C. Harvey, who was appointed by Commissioner Roger Goodell to rule on the league’s appeal of a six-game suspension already imposed on Watson. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the case. The league has been seeking a lengthier punishment for Watson, who was accused of sexual misconduct by two dozen women in Texas.

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — The BMW Championship is something new for everyone. The PGA Tour goes to Delaware for the first time. Wilmington Country Club is the site for the second of three FedEx Cup playoff events. Justin Thomas is among those with limited experience. He played the Palmer Cup at Wilmington in 2013 when he was 20. Thomas doesn't recall much. The advantage in course knowledge probably goes to Rory McIlroy. He missed the cut last week and came to Delaware. McIlroy has been at the course every day since Saturday. It's a big week. The top 30 advance to the Tour Championship.

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Tiger Woods felt strongly enough about a private meeting of top PGA Tour players that he flew from Florida to Delaware to attend. What's emerging from that players-only meeting is unity against a rival league funded by Saudi money and how to make the PGA Tour better. There was another form of unity. No one is willing to share details on the best way forward. Xander Schauffele says there was a code to keep tight lips. Rory McIlroy says the ideas are for tour executives to hear as they forge a path. As for Woods? McIlroy says he remains the biggest voice.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 for a three-game sweep. Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. After Mahle left in the third, Pagán, Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh.ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery picked up his third win in as many starts with St. Louis, and Nolan Gorman drove in three runs to lead the Cardinals to a 5-1 win over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday night. St. Louis won for the 12th time in 13 home games and beat Colorado for the 11th straight time at home while improving to a season-best 14 games over .500 at 65-51. Colorado lost its fourth in a row and has dropped 18 of 26 since the All-Star break.ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, starting wide receiver Mecole Hardman and backup running back Jerick McKinnon left training camp early Wednesday as nagging injuries continued to mount for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jones left after about 10 minutes with a sore back while Hardman, who is being counted upon to help overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill, hurt his groin while going up for a catch in the end zone. McKinnon left with a hamstring injury. They were joined on the sideline by wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, who missed his second practice with a sore knee.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 for a three-game sweep. Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. After Mahle left in the third, Pagán, Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh. ST. LOUIS (AP) — Jordan Montgomery picked up his third win in as many starts with St. Louis, and Nolan Gorman drove in three runs to lead the Cardinals to a 5-1 win over the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday night. St. Louis won for the 12th time in 13 home games and beat Colorado for the 11th straight time at home while improving to a season-best 14 games over .500 at 65-51. Colorado lost its fourth in a row and has dropped 18 of 26 since the All-Star break. ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones, starting wide receiver Mecole Hardman and backup running back Jerick McKinnon left training camp early Wednesday as nagging injuries continued to mount for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jones left after about 10 minutes with a sore back while Hardman, who is being counted upon to help overcome the loss of Tyreek Hill, hurt his groin while going up for a catch in the end zone. McKinnon left with a hamstring injury. They were joined on the sideline by wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, who missed his second practice with a sore knee.CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow says he's trying to gain back the weight and strength he lost after having surgery to remove his ruptured appendix three weeks ago. The goal is for the QB to be mobile and sharp by the time Cincinnati opens the regular season on Sept. 11 against AFC North rival Pittsburgh. The 25-year-old Burrow said he feels better every day, but doesn't expect to play in the two remaining preseason games. Coach Zac Taylor said the remaining team practices will be designed to get Burrow ready to go for Week 1.NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Brent Venables has shown steady, early confidence as Oklahoma’s new head football coach. Those who work with him say that shouldn't be a surprise. Retired coaches Bill Snyder of Kansas State and Bob Stoops of Oklahoma both say Venables has learned a lot in his years as an assistant. Venables most recently was defensive coordinator for national powerhouse Clemson. Now he takes over the Sooners. No. 9 Oklahoma hosts UTEP in the season opener next month.UNDATED (AP) — Two people familiar with the negotiations tell the AP that talks between the NFL and NFL Players Association on a discipline settlement for Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson have progressed. It's uncertain whether the two sides will reach a deal. The sides are seeking a compromise before any punishment is handed down by Peter C. Harvey, who was appointed by Commissioner Roger Goodell to rule on the league’s appeal of a six-game suspension already imposed on Watson. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the case. The league has been seeking a lengthier punishment for Watson, who was accused of sexual misconduct by two dozen women in Texas.WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — The BMW Championship is something new for everyone. The PGA Tour goes to Delaware for the first time. Wilmington Country Club is the site for the second of three FedEx Cup playoff events. Justin Thomas is among those with limited experience. He played the Palmer Cup at Wilmington in 2013 when he was 20. Thomas doesn't recall much. The advantage in course knowledge probably goes to Rory McIlroy. He missed the cut last week and came to Delaware. McIlroy has been at the course every day since Saturday. It's a big week. The top 30 advance to the Tour Championship.WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Tiger Woods felt strongly enough about a private meeting of top PGA Tour players that he flew from Florida to Delaware to attend. What's emerging from that players-only meeting is unity against a rival league funded by Saudi money and how to make the PGA Tour better. There was another form of unity. No one is willing to share details on the best way forward. Xander Schauffele says there was a code to keep tight lips. Rory McIlroy says the ideas are for tour executives to hear as they forge a path. As for Woods? McIlroy says he remains the biggest voice.WEDNESDAY SCORESINTERLEAGUEFinal Boston 8 Pittsburgh 3AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal Minnesota 4 Kansas City 0Final Toronto 6 Baltimore 1Final Seattle 11 L.A. Angels 7Final Cleveland 8 Detroit 4Final N.Y. Yankees 8 Tampa Bay 7Final Oakland 7 Texas 2Final Houston 3 Chicago White Sox 2NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal Cincinnati 1 Philadelphia 0Final Chicago Cubs 3 Washington 2Final San Diego 10 Miami 3Final N.Y. Mets 9 Atlanta 7Final St. Louis 5 Colorado 1Final L.A. Dodgers 2 Milwaukee 1Final Arizona 3 San Francisco 2

Sports Headlines for Thursday

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on Wednesday for a three-game sweep.

Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. Miranda finished with two hits and two RBI, and Nick Gordon had a run-scoring double.

After Mahle left in the third, Pagán (4-6), Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh.

Making his third start since he was acquired from Cincinnati at the trade deadline, Mahle faced eight batters before manager Rocco Baldelli and a team trainer visited the mound in the third inning.

Mahle pitched 2 1/3 innings of hitless ball, walking one. He threw 29 of his 42 pitches for strikes, but his velocity was diminished.

Mahle is going to get an MRI and the team is expected to provide an update later Wednesday or Thursday.

The Royals led 2-0 in the first inning Monday, but have gone scoreless in 26 frames since.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Emilio Pagán pitched two scoreless innings after Tyler Mahle departed with right shoulder fatigue, and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on Wednesday for a three-game sweep.Jose Miranda homered for Minnesota, which is fighting with Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox for control of the crowded AL Central. Miranda finished with two hits and two RBI, and Nick Gordon had a run-scoring double.After Mahle left in the third, Pagán (4-6), Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Michael Fulmer and Trevor Megill finished Minnesota’s second straight shutout. A diving catch by center fielder Gilberto Celestino saved a run in the seventh.Making his third start since he was acquired from Cincinnati at the trade deadline, Mahle faced eight batters before manager Rocco Baldelli and a team trainer visited the mound in the third inning.Mahle pitched 2 1/3 innings of hitless ball, walking one. He threw 29 of his 42 pitches for strikes, but his velocity was diminished.Mahle is going to get an MRI and the team is expected to provide an update later Wednesday or Thursday.The Royals led 2-0 in the first inning Monday, but have gone scoreless in 26 frames since.

⚾ Royals swept by Twins Wednesday

WICHITA — Aaron Sabato blasted a walk-off grand slam in the tenth inning to defeat the Tulsa Drillers 9-5 Wednesday night. Sabato’s first Wind Surge home run gave the Wind Surge their sixth straight win and eleven of their last twelve. The first place Surge extend the lead to a season high six games in the division.

The Wind Surge took the lead early with two runs in the first inning provided by an RBI single from Alex Isola and bases loaded walk from Cole Sturgeon.

The Surge extended their lead to 4-1 after four innings after an RBI groundout from Austin Martin and a wild pitch that scored Yunior Severino.

Cody Laweryson had a solid start tonight for the Wind Surge going four innings giving up three hits and striking out four Drillers’ hitters. He was relieved by Osiris German in the fifth.

Abiatal Avelino blasted a two-run home run in the sixth for the Drillers to tie the game at four. He finished the night 3-5. He was a triple shy of the cycle.

Will Holland gave the Wind Surge a late lead after an RBI single in the bottom of the seventh.

Casey Legumina blew the save in the ninth after giving up a solo home run to Ismael Alcantara, tying the game at five. Legumina returned in the tenth inning and held the Drillers scoreless to record the win. 

WICHITA — Aaron Sabato blasted a walk-off grand slam in the tenth inning to defeat the Tulsa Drillers 9-5 Wednesday night. Sabato’s first Wind Surge home run gave the Wind Surge their sixth straight win and eleven of their last twelve. The first place Surge extend the lead to a season high six games in the division.The Wind Surge took the lead early with two runs in the first inning provided by an RBI single from Alex Isola and bases loaded walk from Cole Sturgeon.The Surge extended their lead to 4-1 after four innings after an RBI groundout from Austin Martin and a wild pitch that scored Yunior Severino.Cody Laweryson had a solid start tonight for the Wind Surge going four innings giving up three hits and striking out four Drillers’ hitters. He was relieved by Osiris German in the fifth.Abiatal Avelino blasted a two-run home run in the sixth for the Drillers to tie the game at four. He finished the night 3-5. He was a triple shy of the cycle.Will Holland gave the Wind Surge a late lead after an RBI single in the bottom of the seventh.Casey Legumina blew the save in the ninth after giving up a solo home run to Ismael Alcantara, tying the game at five. Legumina returned in the tenth inning and held the Drillers scoreless to record the win. Jordan Leasure suffered his second loss.

⚾ Wind Surge walk off winners Wednesday

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The quickest way to the quarterback for a defensive end is usually the most direct route, and that may be why Chiefs rookie George Karlaftis is so adept at bulldozing his way through an unsuspecting offensive tackle and into the backfield.

Then again, perhaps it's because the route Karlaftis took to reaching the NFL was anything but direct.

The first-round pick out of Purdue grew up in Athens — not the one in Georgia, home to the Bulldogs, but the one in Greece, home to the Parthenon. His father, Matt, was an accomplished track and field athlete who had ventured to the U.S. to attend college, and while doing doctoral work at Purdue had met his eventual wife, Amy.

The two settled back in Athens, where Matt Karlaftis embarked on a career in academia, and where the family eventually grew to include four children. But the lives of all of them changed in June 2014, when their patriarch died of a sudden heart attack while on a work trip at the age of 44. Within a matter of days, Amy decided to move with her kids back to Indiana, where she settled in West Lafayette to be closer to family and her support network.

It was there that George Karlaftis, who had excelled at water polo and a myriad other sports in Greece, fell in love with the American version of football. He was in the eighth grade and, for a young man learning a new language, adapting to a new culture and trying to make new friends, the game gave him an opportunity to discover himself.

Now, a mere eight years later, the 21-year-old Karlaftis has reached the pinnacle of the sport.

“Looking back on it,” he said, “it's pretty crazy to think about. I feel like, more generally speaking, I've always excelled in sports to a certain extent. Football sort of came natural to me after I had a full year under my belt. I surely fell in love with it. Just looking back on it, I had a crazy, crazy ride. And just like the French say, ‘C'est la vie,' right? That's life.”

It has certainly been an interesting one. And in many ways, it's only beginning.

The Chiefs were better than just three teams in the NFL last season when it came to bringing down the quarterback, and they were unable to make a noteworthy splash in free agency until they signed veteran Carlos Dunlap midway into training camp. So instead, they spent one of their two first-round draft picks in an attempt to upgrade at defensive end.

Karlaftis was the fifth one off the board after a standout career at Purdue, but he fit perfectly with Kansas City.

“With a late start to football, he picked it up quick,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said, “and one thing in common in everyone that you talk to about George is approach to the game and how important it is to him.”

That's been evident through the first month of training camp. Karlaftis is often one of the first players on the field and one of the last to leave it, and not just because he's probably signed more autographs for fans than just about anyone.

Along the way, Karlaftis began spending time with veteran Frank Clark, who regularly puts in extra work after practice.

“George is dope. He's a dope rookie,” Clark said with a smile. "He listens, you know? And honestly, I love him. He's a favorite for me early, one of my favorite rookies ever. He wants to be good. He understands it's a different game. There's a different twist in the NFL. You have to be understanding that.

“The other day,” Clark recalled, “he asked about getting off the ball — I fly off the ball — and he's asking, ‘What are you looking at?' And I explained to him different keys. Then at the end of practice, I'm zoned out, looking at the sky, just had five plays in a row, and he came running over to me and he's like, ‘Bro!’ Scared me. He's like, ‘Bro! I did it! I did what you told me to do!’ I was like, ‘Oh, cool. Good stuff.’ But just the fact that he came over so excited was cool.”

Not always does such practice success translate on game day, but Karlaftis couldn't have had a better preseason debut than last Saturday in Chicago. He had two quarterback hits along with a tackle-for-loss and a sack.

“Everyone is helping in their own way,” said Karlaftis, who gets his first opportunity inside Arrowhead Stadium when the Chiefs play Washington in their second exhibition game Saturday. “We're trying to have the strongest group possible. But it's just little things about the game, little veteran intricacies, that are being passed down to me.”

The depth chart is fluid in Kansas City, where defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is known for rotating so many players that it hardly matters anyway. But at least for now, Karlaftis is taking the shortest route he can to the top — just like he does when he's trying to chase down a quarterback in the backfield.

“He's a great kid,” Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said. “A lot of love for the rook. He came in and knew the playbook, he's a true student of the game. He has a lot of heart and effort. I love playing with him. He brings the young dog out of me.”

DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — The quickest way to the quarterback for a defensive end is usually the most direct route, and that may be why Chiefs rookie George Karlaftis is so adept at bulldozing his way through an unsuspecting offensive tackle and into the backfield.Then again, perhaps it's because the route Karlaftis took to reaching the NFL was anything but direct.The first-round pick out of Purdue grew up in Athens — not the one in Georgia, home to the Bulldogs, but the one in Greece, home to the Parthenon. His father, Matt, was an accomplished track and field athlete who had ventured to the U.S. to attend college, and while doing doctoral work at Purdue had met his eventual wife, Amy.The two settled back in Athens, where Matt Karlaftis embarked on a career in academia, and where the family eventually grew to include four children. But the lives of all of them changed in June 2014, when their patriarch died of a sudden heart attack while on a work trip at the age of 44. Within a matter of days, Amy decided to move with her kids back to Indiana, where she settled in West Lafayette to be closer to family and her support network.It was there that George Karlaftis, who had excelled at water polo and a myriad other sports in Greece, fell in love with the American version of football. He was in the eighth grade and, for a young man learning a new language, adapting to a new culture and trying to make new friends, the game gave him an opportunity to discover himself.Now, a mere eight years later, the 21-year-old Karlaftis has reached the pinnacle of the sport.“Looking back on it,” he said, “it's pretty crazy to think about. I feel like, more generally speaking, I've always excelled in sports to a certain extent. Football sort of came natural to me after I had a full year under my belt. I surely fell in love with it. Just looking back on it, I had a crazy, crazy ride. And just like the French say, ‘C'est la vie,' right? That's life.”It has certainly been an interesting one. And in many ways, it's only beginning.The Chiefs were better than just three teams in the NFL last season when it came to bringing down the quarterback, and they were unable to make a noteworthy splash in free agency until they signed veteran Carlos Dunlap midway into training camp. So instead, they spent one of their two first-round draft picks in an attempt to upgrade at defensive end.Karlaftis was the fifth one off the board after a standout career at Purdue, but he fit perfectly with Kansas City.“With a late start to football, he picked it up quick,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said, “and one thing in common in everyone that you talk to about George is approach to the game and how important it is to him.”That's been evident through the first month of training camp. Karlaftis is often one of the first players on the field and one of the last to leave it, and not just because he's probably signed more autographs for fans than just about anyone.Along the way, Karlaftis began spending time with veteran Frank Clark, who regularly puts in extra work after practice.“George is dope. He's a dope rookie,” Clark said with a smile. "He listens, you know? And honestly, I love him. He's a favorite for me early, one of my favorite rookies ever. He wants to be good. He understands it's a different game. There's a different twist in the NFL. You have to be understanding that.“The other day,” Clark recalled, “he asked about getting off the ball — I fly off the ball — and he's asking, ‘What are you looking at?' And I explained to him different keys. Then at the end of practice, I'm zoned out, looking at the sky, just had five plays in a row, and he came running over to me and he's like, ‘Bro!’ Scared me. He's like, ‘Bro! I did it! I did what you told me to do!’ I was like, ‘Oh, cool. Good stuff.’ But just the fact that he came over so excited was cool.”Not always does such practice success translate on game day, but Karlaftis couldn't have had a better preseason debut than last Saturday in Chicago. He had two quarterback hits along with a tackle-for-loss and a sack.“Everyone is helping in their own way,” said Karlaftis, who gets his first opportunity inside Arrowhead Stadium when the Chiefs play Washington in their second exhibition game Saturday. “We're trying to have the strongest group possible. But it's just little things about the game, little veteran intricacies, that are being passed down to me.”The depth chart is fluid in Kansas City, where defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is known for rotating so many players that it hardly matters anyway. But at least for now, Karlaftis is taking the shortest route he can to the top — just like he does when he's trying to chase down a quarterback in the backfield.“He's a great kid,” Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce said. “A lot of love for the rook. He came in and knew the playbook, he's a true student of the game. He has a lot of heart and effort. I love playing with him. He brings the young dog out of me.”

🏈 Chiefs' George Karlaftis could become NFL's own Greek Freak

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Sonny Gray matched his season high with 10 strikeouts and Gio Urshela had four hits as the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-0 on Tuesday night.

Gilberto Celestino homered and Luis Arraez picked up three more hits to raise his MLB-best batting average to .336. The Twins moved within a game of AL Central-leading Cleveland.

“We’ve got to continue to keep playing like that,” Urshela said.

Gray (7-3) struck out the side in the second inning, all on called third strikes. He got Nicky Lopez and MJ Melendez swinging in the sixth to equal the 10 strikeouts he had against Detroit back on May 24.

Gray exited to a standing ovation when manager Rocco Baldelli pulled him in the seventh after hits by Salvador Perez and Vinnie Pasquantino. Gray had allowed just one hit through six innings.

Including Tuesday's scoreless outing, Gray has surrendered just five total runs over his last five starts.

“I feel good with the baseball in my hand," Gray said. “I want to take the mound with one thought on my brain, and it’s to win the game. That’s just kind of where I’m at personally.”

Caleb Thielbar took over for Gray with a 3-0 lead with two on and no outs, and kept the shutout intact. Thielbar also helped the Twins out of a jam in Monday's win.

“That’s two days in a row for Caleb to come in in huge spots and to absolutely maneuver his way, dominate his way through some hitters,” Gray said. “That’s huge, what he’s done.”

Zack Greinke (4-8) gave up three runs, only one them earned, in six innings. Minnesota scored its first two runs in the second after an error by third baseman Bobby Witt Jr.

Tuesday was the third time this season the 38-year-old Greinke had faced the Twins. The nine hits were the most Minnesota had against him this year.

“I made a lot of good pitches and they were just hitting balls hard all day long," Greinke said. "It was a tough day pitching.”

Leading 3-0, the Twins added three runs in the seventh against reliever Wyatt Mills. An error by second baseman Michael Massey helped Minnesota score three more in the eighth.

“We’re right there still in that game with an opportunity again and miss it,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “You can’t let those go."

Urshela had RBI singles in both the seventh and eighth innings. It marked his first four-hit game as a Twin and the fourth of his career.

The third baseman, who was acquired in an offseason trade from the Yankees, is batting .303 (23 for 76) since July 6.

“I think he’s seeing the ball well recently,” manager Rocco Baldelli said. "He’s had a little bit of success off Greinke in the past. Sometimes that just happens and we don’t have explanations for that, but sometimes guys’ swings match up just a little bit better against guys’ stuff than anyone could ever expect."

Twins: 2B Jorge Polanco did not play Tuesday, a day after exiting a game with left knee soreness. Polanco injured his knee while sliding into home plate Monday. Baldelli said after Tuesday's game that Polanco did have an MRI earlier in the day, but it didn't reveal any damage. Polanco is considered day-to-day.

LHP Daniel Lynch (4-7, 4.52 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the series finale, facing the Twins for the third time this season. Minnesota counters with RHP Tyler Mahle (6-7, 4.26), who will make his third start in a Twins uniform since being acquired from Cincinnati in a trade earlier this month.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Sonny Gray matched his season high with 10 strikeouts and Gio Urshela had four hits as the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 9-0 on Tuesday night.Gilberto Celestino homered and Luis Arraez picked up three more hits to raise his MLB-best batting average to .336. The Twins moved within a game of AL Central-leading Cleveland.“We’ve got to continue to keep playing like that,” Urshela said.Gray (7-3) struck out the side in the second inning, all on called third strikes. He got Nicky Lopez and MJ Melendez swinging in the sixth to equal the 10 strikeouts he had against Detroit back on May 24.Gray exited to a standing ovation when manager Rocco Baldelli pulled him in the seventh after hits by Salvador Perez and Vinnie Pasquantino. Gray had allowed just one hit through six innings.Including Tuesday's scoreless outing, Gray has surrendered just five total runs over his last five starts.“I feel good with the baseball in my hand," Gray said. “I want to take the mound with one thought on my brain, and it’s to win the game. That’s just kind of where I’m at personally.”Caleb Thielbar took over for Gray with a 3-0 lead with two on and no outs, and kept the shutout intact. Thielbar also helped the Twins out of a jam in Monday's win.“That’s two days in a row for Caleb to come in in huge spots and to absolutely maneuver his way, dominate his way through some hitters,” Gray said. “That’s huge, what he’s done.”Zack Greinke (4-8) gave up three runs, only one them earned, in six innings. Minnesota scored its first two runs in the second after an error by third baseman Bobby Witt Jr.Tuesday was the third time this season the 38-year-old Greinke had faced the Twins. The nine hits were the most Minnesota had against him this year.“I made a lot of good pitches and they were just hitting balls hard all day long," Greinke said. "It was a tough day pitching.”Leading 3-0, the Twins added three runs in the seventh against reliever Wyatt Mills. An error by second baseman Michael Massey helped Minnesota score three more in the eighth.“We’re right there still in that game with an opportunity again and miss it,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “You can’t let those go."Urshela had RBI singles in both the seventh and eighth innings. It marked his first four-hit game as a Twin and the fourth of his career.The third baseman, who was acquired in an offseason trade from the Yankees, is batting .303 (23 for 76) since July 6.“I think he’s seeing the ball well recently,” manager Rocco Baldelli said. "He’s had a little bit of success off Greinke in the past. Sometimes that just happens and we don’t have explanations for that, but sometimes guys’ swings match up just a little bit better against guys’ stuff than anyone could ever expect."TRAINER’S ROOMTwins: 2B Jorge Polanco did not play Tuesday, a day after exiting a game with left knee soreness. Polanco injured his knee while sliding into home plate Monday. Baldelli said after Tuesday's game that Polanco did have an MRI earlier in the day, but it didn't reveal any damage. Polanco is considered day-to-day.UP NEXTLHP Daniel Lynch (4-7, 4.52 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the series finale, facing the Twins for the third time this season. Minnesota counters with RHP Tyler Mahle (6-7, 4.26), who will make his third start in a Twins uniform since being acquired from Cincinnati in a trade earlier this month.