Wichita, KS- The Amarillo Sod Poodles defeated the Wind Surge 4-3 on Sunday afternoon as a late-inning rally led by Leandro Cedeno gave the Sod Poodles their first series victory on the road this season.

Amarillo sealed the victory in the top of the ninth as Leandro Cedeno hit a two-run RBI double that scored two runs to give the Sod Poodles a 4-3 victory. Cedeno went three for five with three RBIs in the ballgame.

Amarillo tied the game in the top of the fifth as Andy Yerzy hit a solo homer to even the score at two. Andrew Bechtold broke the tie in the bottom of the eighth as he hit a solo home run to left field that put the Surge in front 3-2.

Daniel Gossett made his fourth start on the mound for Wichita and pitched six innings and allowed two runs on six hits and recorded five strikeouts. Bryan Sammons came in relief for the Surge in the seventh inning.

Wichita scored the game’s first run as Matt Wallner hit a solo home run in the bottom of the first inning to give the Surge an early 1-0 lead. Wallner finished three for five with an RBI in the afternoon.

DaShawn Keirsey Jr. went one for three with an RBI and a walk in the ballgame and tallied his first triple of the season in the bottom of the second that scored Cole Sturgeon that extended the Surge lead to 2-0.

Wichita, KS- The Amarillo Sod Poodles defeated the Wind Surge 4-3 on Sunday afternoon as a late-inning rally led by Leandro Cedeno gave the Sod Poodles their first series victory on the road this season.Amarillo sealed the victory in the top of the ninth as Leandro Cedeno hit a two-run RBI double that scored two runs to give the Sod Poodles a 4-3 victory. Cedeno went three for five with three RBIs in the ballgame.Amarillo tied the game in the top of the fifth as Andy Yerzy hit a solo homer to even the score at two. Andrew Bechtold broke the tie in the bottom of the eighth as he hit a solo home run to left field that put the Surge in front 3-2.Daniel Gossett made his fourth start on the mound for Wichita and pitched six innings and allowed two runs on six hits and recorded five strikeouts. Bryan Sammons came in relief for the Surge in the seventh inning.Wichita scored the game’s first run as Matt Wallner hit a solo home run in the bottom of the first inning to give the Surge an early 1-0 lead. Wallner finished three for five with an RBI in the afternoon.DaShawn Keirsey Jr. went one for three with an RBI and a walk in the ballgame and tallied his first triple of the season in the bottom of the second that scored Cole Sturgeon that extended the Surge lead to 2-0.The Surge are off Monday.

Surge lose Sunday to Amarillo

KANSAS CITY (AP) —&nbsp;Zack Greinke pitched five scoreless innings of three-hit ball and the Kansas City Royals slowed the Cleveland Guardians 5-1 on Sunday.

A day after the Guardians got a season-high 23 hits in a 13-1 romp, Greinke (3-5) and four relievers combined on a five-hitter.

Greinke struck out five and walked one in his 222nd career win.

In the third inning, Greinke threw his 50,000th total pitch in the majors. Now in his 19th season, the 38-year-old righty became the 17th pitcher to reach that feat since 1988, when pitch count data became available. Justin Verlander is the only other active player to reach the mark.

MJ Melendez drove in two runs and Andrew Benintendi extended his on-base streak to an AL-best 19 games. Benintendi hit an RBI single in the fifth and Melendez had a two-run single later in the inning.

Kyle Isbel and Nicky Lopez also had RBI singles for the Royals.

KANSAS CITY (AP) —&nbsp;Zack Greinke pitched five scoreless innings of three-hit ball and the Kansas City Royals slowed the Cleveland Guardians 5-1 on Sunday.A day after the Guardians got a season-high 23 hits in a 13-1 romp, Greinke (3-5) and four relievers combined on a five-hitter.Greinke struck out five and walked one in his 222nd career win.In the third inning, Greinke threw his 50,000th total pitch in the majors. Now in his 19th season, the 38-year-old righty became the 17th pitcher to reach that feat since 1988, when pitch count data became available. Justin Verlander is the only other active player to reach the mark.MJ Melendez drove in two runs and Andrew Benintendi extended his on-base streak to an AL-best 19 games. Benintendi hit an RBI single in the fifth and Melendez had a two-run single later in the inning.Kyle Isbel and Nicky Lopez also had RBI singles for the Royals.

Royals win Sunday over Guardians

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that Kansas City Royals left fielder&nbsp;Andrew Benintendi&nbsp;has been named to his first All-Star Game as a reserve, and will represent the Royals at the 92nd&nbsp;All-Star Game, which will be played on Tuesday, July 19 at Dodger Stadium.

Benintendi entered today ranked 5th&nbsp;in the Majors with a .317 batting average, trailing only&nbsp;Luis Arraez&nbsp;(.355),&nbsp;Paul Goldschmidt&nbsp;(.340),&nbsp;Rafael Devers&nbsp;(.327) and&nbsp;Bryce Harper&nbsp;(.318). With eight games remaining before the All-Star break, Benintendi’s current mark of .317 (including today’s game) is the highest by a Royal before the break since&nbsp;Eric Hosmer&nbsp;hit .318 in the unofficial first half of the 2017 season. As of this writing, Benintendi is tied for the American League lead in times on base (136) and ranks 7th&nbsp;in the Majors with a .389 on-base percentage.

Benintendi went 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI single in today’s win to extend his current on-base streak to 19 games, which is the longest active run in the American League and the 2nd-longest streak of his career, trailing only his 23-game on-base streak earlier this season from May 10-June 3. He is one of two players in the Majors this season with multiple on-base streaks of at least 19 games, along with&nbsp;Trea Turner.

He reached safely at least&nbsp;twice&nbsp;in a career-best 10 consecutive games from June 27-July 7, during which he recorded a .545 on-base percentage, which matched the longest such streak in the Majors this season and was the longest by a Royal since&nbsp;David DeJesus’&nbsp;10-game run from June 24-July 4, 2006.

Benintendi, who won his first career&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award last season, has started 80 of the Royals 84 games this season in left field and his 3 Defensive Runs Saved rank 2nd&nbsp;among American League left fielders. He has not been charged with an error in 146 chances this year and is the only left fielder in the Majors that has not committed an error (min. 100 chances). In fact, he has not been charged with an error in his last 155 games dating back to June 11, 2021.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that Kansas City Royals left fielder&nbsp;Andrew Benintendi&nbsp;has been named to his first All-Star Game as a reserve, and will represent the Royals at the 92nd&nbsp;All-Star Game, which will be played on Tuesday, July 19 at Dodger Stadium.Benintendi entered today ranked 5th&nbsp;in the Majors with a .317 batting average, trailing only&nbsp;Luis Arraez&nbsp;(.355),&nbsp;Paul Goldschmidt&nbsp;(.340),&nbsp;Rafael Devers&nbsp;(.327) and&nbsp;Bryce Harper&nbsp;(.318). With eight games remaining before the All-Star break, Benintendi’s current mark of .317 (including today’s game) is the highest by a Royal before the break since&nbsp;Eric Hosmer&nbsp;hit .318 in the unofficial first half of the 2017 season. As of this writing, Benintendi is tied for the American League lead in times on base (136) and ranks 7th&nbsp;in the Majors with a .389 on-base percentage.Benintendi went 1-for-3 with a walk and an RBI single in today’s win to extend his current on-base streak to 19 games, which is the longest active run in the American League and the 2nd-longest streak of his career, trailing only his 23-game on-base streak earlier this season from May 10-June 3. He is one of two players in the Majors this season with multiple on-base streaks of at least 19 games, along with&nbsp;Trea Turner.He reached safely at least&nbsp;twice&nbsp;in a career-best 10 consecutive games from June 27-July 7, during which he recorded a .545 on-base percentage, which matched the longest such streak in the Majors this season and was the longest by a Royal since&nbsp;David DeJesus’&nbsp;10-game run from June 24-July 4, 2006.Benintendi, who won his first career&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award last season, has started 80 of the Royals 84 games this season in left field and his 3 Defensive Runs Saved rank 2nd&nbsp;among American League left fielders. He has not been charged with an error in 146 chances this year and is the only left fielder in the Majors that has not committed an error (min. 100 chances). In fact, he has not been charged with an error in his last 155 games dating back to June 11, 2021.

Benintendi to be American League All-Star

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A six run fourth inning was the big one Saturday night for the Hutchinson Monarchs in a 10-0 win over the Kingman Islanders at Hobart-Detter Field. 

Joey Baran was two for three with three RBI in the win. 

Corbin Hawkins threw five innings of shutout ball, giving up just three hits for the win.

The Monarchs, now 21-6, play Kingman again tonight at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is at 6 p.m.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A six run fourth inning was the big one Saturday night for the Hutchinson Monarchs in a 10-0 win over the Kingman Islanders at Hobart-Detter Field. Joey Baran was two for three with three RBI in the win. Corbin Hawkins threw five innings of shutout ball, giving up just three hits for the win.The Monarchs, now 21-6, play Kingman again tonight at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is at 6 p.m.

Monarchs win Saturday 10-0

Wichita, KS- The Wind Surge fell short to the Amarillo Sod Poodles 6-3 on Saturday night in extra innings as the Sod Poodles scored four runs in the tenth inning to take the series lead.

Tied 2-2 in the tenth inning, Amarillo scored four runs behind an RBI double from Edouardo Diaz that scored two and RBI singles from Drew Stankiewicz and Tristin English that gave the Sod Poodles a commanding 6-2 lead. Diaz led the way for Amarillo as he went three for five with two RBIs.

Wichita newcomer Nash Knight made his Wind Surge debut on the night and hit a go-ahead home run in the bottom of the fifth inning that gave Wichita a 2-1 lead.

Kody Funderburk got the start on the mound for Wichita and pitched five innings and allowed only one run on four hits and struck out three hitters before being relieved by Cody Laweryson in the sixth inning.

First pitch Sunday afternoon is at 1:05 and gates will open at noon.

Wichita, KS- The Wind Surge fell short to the Amarillo Sod Poodles 6-3 on Saturday night in extra innings as the Sod Poodles scored four runs in the tenth inning to take the series lead.Tied 2-2 in the tenth inning, Amarillo scored four runs behind an RBI double from Edouardo Diaz that scored two and RBI singles from Drew Stankiewicz and Tristin English that gave the Sod Poodles a commanding 6-2 lead. Diaz led the way for Amarillo as he went three for five with two RBIs.Wichita newcomer Nash Knight made his Wind Surge debut on the night and hit a go-ahead home run in the bottom of the fifth inning that gave Wichita a 2-1 lead.Kody Funderburk got the start on the mound for Wichita and pitched five innings and allowed only one run on four hits and struck out three hitters before being relieved by Cody Laweryson in the sixth inning.First pitch Sunday afternoon is at 1:05 and gates will open at noon.

Wind Surge lose Saturday

Montreal (AP) — Remi Walter broke a tie in the 63rd minute in Sporting Kansas City's 2-1 victory over Montreal on Saturday night. Walter powered through the defense for the winner. 

Roger Espinoza tied it for Kansas City (5-11-4) in the 29th. 

Romell Quioto opened the scoring for Montreal (9-8-2) in the 13th.

Montreal (AP) — Remi Walter broke a tie in the 63rd minute in Sporting Kansas City's 2-1 victory over Montreal on Saturday night. Walter powered through the defense for the winner. Roger Espinoza tied it for Kansas City (5-11-4) in the 29th. Romell Quioto opened the scoring for Montreal (9-8-2) in the 13th.

Sporting KC wins in Montreal Saturday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his first home run in nearly a month, rookie Nolan Jones connected for an impressive first homer of his career and the Cleveland Guardians stopped a five-game skid, roughing up the Kansas City Royals 13-1 Saturday.

The Guardians totaled a season-high 23 hits and led 11-0 after four innings. Amed Rosario homered off Royals center fielder Michael Taylor in a two-run ninth.

Triston McKenzie (6-6) tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball with four strikeouts and five walks.

Ramírez had an RBI single in the first and hit a two-run drive in the second — it was his 17th homer of the season but first since June 10 as he's been dealing with an ailing thumb ligament. He leads the AL with 66 RBI.

A day after getting two hits in his big league debut, Jones launched a 457-foot, three-run drive with a 109.2 mph exit velocity into the Kauffman Stadium fountains to cap a five-run fourth inning.

The 24-year-old outfielder had two hits and walked twice.

Kwan and Andrés Giménez each drove in two runs and Franmil Reyes had an RBI for the fifth straight game, the longest stretch of his career.

Cleveland topped the 22 hits it had against the Royals on April 10.

Jonathan Heasley (1-5) gave up six runs and six hits in a career-low 1 1/3 innings.

Taylor made his first career pitching appearance and allowed two runs on five hits and two walks in two innings. He also struck out Reyes and Óscar Mercado.

Andrew Benintendi extended his AL-best on-base streak to 18 games with a walk in the first. Nicky Lopez drove in the Royals' run with a grounder.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — José Ramírez hit his first home run in nearly a month, rookie Nolan Jones connected for an impressive first homer of his career and the Cleveland Guardians stopped a five-game skid, roughing up the Kansas City Royals 13-1 Saturday.The Guardians totaled a season-high 23 hits and led 11-0 after four innings. Amed Rosario homered off Royals center fielder Michael Taylor in a two-run ninth.Triston McKenzie (6-6) tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball with four strikeouts and five walks.Ramírez had an RBI single in the first and hit a two-run drive in the second — it was his 17th homer of the season but first since June 10 as he's been dealing with an ailing thumb ligament. He leads the AL with 66 RBI.A day after getting two hits in his big league debut, Jones launched a 457-foot, three-run drive with a 109.2 mph exit velocity into the Kauffman Stadium fountains to cap a five-run fourth inning.The 24-year-old outfielder had two hits and walked twice.Kwan and Andrés Giménez each drove in two runs and Franmil Reyes had an RBI for the fifth straight game, the longest stretch of his career.Cleveland topped the 22 hits it had against the Royals on April 10.Jonathan Heasley (1-5) gave up six runs and six hits in a career-low 1 1/3 innings.Taylor made his first career pitching appearance and allowed two runs on five hits and two walks in two innings. He also struck out Reyes and Óscar Mercado.Andrew Benintendi extended his AL-best on-base streak to 18 games with a walk in the first. Nicky Lopez drove in the Royals' run with a grounder.

Royals lose Saturday to Guardians

KANSAS CITY—

The deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign long-term deals is coming up Friday, July 15 at noon. The Chiefs player with the tag, offensive tackle Orlando Brown has not yet signed.

On the tag, Brown would be due $16.6 million in 2022, thus far he has not attended the Chiefs OTAs pending a new deal. Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler, including last year with Kansas City, and the blind side protector of Patrick Mahomes.

Brown's goal is to be the NFL's highest paid lineman. 

The Chiefs, in initial comments, appear willing to pay for the insurance policy for the face of their franchise. We could find out how much in the coming week.

KANSAS CITY—

The deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign long-term deals is coming up Friday, July 15 at noon. The Chiefs player with the tag, offensive tackle Orlando Brown has not yet signed.On the tag, Brown would be due $16.6 million in 2022, thus far he has not attended the Chiefs OTAs pending a new deal. Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler, including last year with Kansas City, and the blind side protector of Patrick Mahomes.Brown's goal is to be the NFL's highest paid lineman. The Chiefs, in initial comments, appear willing to pay for the insurance policy for the face of their franchise. We could find out how much in the coming week.

Brown's deal with Chiefs has deadline of July 15


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Monarchs pounded out 19 hits and scored 15 runs for the second straight game Friday, defeating the Kingman Islanders 15-3 in eight innings in Kingman.

Sawyer Thornhill was 5 for 6 with two RBI in the win.

Braden Davis got the win in relief for Hutchinson, throwing 2 and 1/3 innings of two hit ball.

Hutchinson is now 20-6 and returns to Hobart-Detter Saturday night to play the Islanders. First pitch is at 7 p.m.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Monarchs pounded out 19 hits and scored 15 runs for the second straight game Friday, defeating the Kingman Islanders 15-3 in eight innings in Kingman.Sawyer Thornhill was 5 for 6 with two RBI in the win.Braden Davis got the win in relief for Hutchinson, throwing 2 and 1/3 innings of two hit ball.Hutchinson is now 20-6 and returns to Hobart-Detter Saturday night to play the Islanders. First pitch is at 7 p.m.

Monarchs win Friday in Kingman

Wichita, KS- Andrew Bechtold walked off the Wind Surge on Friday night with a three-run homer as Wichita defeated the Amarillo Sod Poodles 6-4 in extra innings.

The Surge trailed Amarillo 4-3 in the bottom of the eleventh inning as Andrew Bechtold hit a three-run homer to walk the Surge off in their ninth extra inning game. Bechtold went two for five with three RBIs on the night.

Anthony Prato put the Surge in front in the bottom of the third as he hit an RBI double to score Edouard Julien to give Wichita a 1-0 lead. Prato finished the night two for five with an RBI.

Amarillo tied the ballgame up in the top of the fourth as Roby Enriquez scored on a wild pitch with the bases loaded to make it a 1-1 ballgame.

Leobaldo Cabrera went two for three with an RBI and a walk at the plate in the ballgame and hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth to tie things up 2-2.

Wichita had a strong outing from the bullpen as they sent five guys to the mound and allowed just three runs on a combined four hits in eleven innings.

Wichita is now 29-8 when scoring the game’s first run and earned their 20th come from behind win of the season.

First pitch Saturday night is at 6:05 p.m.

Wichita, KS- Andrew Bechtold walked off the Wind Surge on Friday night with a three-run homer as Wichita defeated the Amarillo Sod Poodles 6-4 in extra innings.The Surge trailed Amarillo 4-3 in the bottom of the eleventh inning as Andrew Bechtold hit a three-run homer to walk the Surge off in their ninth extra inning game. Bechtold went two for five with three RBIs on the night.Anthony Prato put the Surge in front in the bottom of the third as he hit an RBI double to score Edouard Julien to give Wichita a 1-0 lead. Prato finished the night two for five with an RBI.Amarillo tied the ballgame up in the top of the fourth as Roby Enriquez scored on a wild pitch with the bases loaded to make it a 1-1 ballgame.Leobaldo Cabrera went two for three with an RBI and a walk at the plate in the ballgame and hit a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth to tie things up 2-2.Wichita had a strong outing from the bullpen as they sent five guys to the mound and allowed just three runs on a combined four hits in eleven innings.Wichita is now 29-8 when scoring the game’s first run and earned their 20th come from behind win of the season.First pitch Saturday night is at 6:05 p.m.

Wind Surge win Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael A. Taylor hit a game-ending RBI single, and the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Cleveland Guardians 4-3 on Friday night.

Vinnie Pasquantino opened the Kansas City ninth with a double to right against Sam Hentges (2-1) that nearly cleared the fence. Edward Olivares then entered the game as a pinch-runner.

After Kyle Isbel struck out on a foul bunt, Taylor poked a 1-2 pitch into right for the winning hit.

Cleveland led 3-1 after seven innings, but Whit Merrifield hit a tying two-run homer in the eighth against Eli Morgan. It was just his second homer in 42 games.

The Guardians have lost five straight and seven of eight overall.

Scott Barlow (3-2) pitched a shaky ninth for the win. Cleveland loaded the bases with one out, but Myles Straw bounced into a forceout at home and Steven Kwan flied to right.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael A. Taylor hit a game-ending RBI single, and the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Cleveland Guardians 4-3 on Friday night.Vinnie Pasquantino opened the Kansas City ninth with a double to right against Sam Hentges (2-1) that nearly cleared the fence. Edward Olivares then entered the game as a pinch-runner.After Kyle Isbel struck out on a foul bunt, Taylor poked a 1-2 pitch into right for the winning hit.Cleveland led 3-1 after seven innings, but Whit Merrifield hit a tying two-run homer in the eighth against Eli Morgan. It was just his second homer in 42 games.The Guardians have lost five straight and seven of eight overall.Scott Barlow (3-2) pitched a shaky ninth for the win. Cleveland loaded the bases with one out, but Myles Straw bounced into a forceout at home and Steven Kwan flied to right.

Royals win Friday night

MONTREAL —

The struggling Sporting KC side is on the road for a non-league game Saturday against CF Montreal. 

Sporting has lost four of their last five MLS matches, but they've won 7 of 8 from Montreal.

Sporting KC is 1-7-2 in road games. Montreal is 5-3-0 in home games.

The matchup Saturday is the first meeting this season between the two teams.

Start time is 7:30 p.m. Eastern at the Saputo Stadium.

MONTREAL —

The struggling Sporting KC side is on the road for a non-league game Saturday against CF Montreal. Sporting has lost four of their last five MLS matches, but they've won 7 of 8 from Montreal.Sporting KC is 1-7-2 in road games. Montreal is 5-3-0 in home games.The matchup Saturday is the first meeting this season between the two teams.Start time is 7:30 p.m. Eastern at the Saputo Stadium.

Sporting KC on the road Saturday

IRVING, Texas-This week in the Big 12 Podcast for the week of July 6th, 2022.

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🎙The Weekly Big 12 Podcast

RALEIGH, N.C. — Former KU guard Devonte Graham was arrested in his hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina for driving while intoxicated around 3 a.m. Thursday.

County records say the 27-year-old is no longer in jail.

Graham averaged 11.9 points, 4.2 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game during the 2021-22 NBA regular season for the New Orleans Pelicans, as well as 4.0 points, 1.5 rebounds and 0.7 assists during New Orleans' six playoff games.

While at KU, Graham was a consensus first-team All-American, Big 12 Player of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2018; a second-team All-Big 12 selection in 2017; and a Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection and Big 12 Tournament MVP in 2016.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Former KU guard Devonte Graham was arrested in his hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina for driving while intoxicated around 3 a.m. Thursday.County records say the 27-year-old is no longer in jail.Graham averaged 11.9 points, 4.2 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game during the 2021-22 NBA regular season for the New Orleans Pelicans, as well as 4.0 points, 1.5 rebounds and 0.7 assists during New Orleans' six playoff games.While at KU, Graham was a consensus first-team All-American, Big 12 Player of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2018; a second-team All-Big 12 selection in 2017; and a Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection and Big 12 Tournament MVP in 2016.

Devonte Graham arrested in North Carolina

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Friday Morning

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Media who cover the Big 12 have tabbed defending champion Baylor as the preseason favorite to win the conference football title again. It is the first time Baylor has been favored in the preseason vote. The Bears got 17 of the 41 first-place votes. Oklahoma had 12 first-place votes and was picked second ahead of Oklahoma State, which lost 21-16 to Baylor in the Big 12 championship game last December. Texas junior running back Bijan Robinson was named the preseason offensive player of the year in the media vote. Kansas State junior linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah was picked as the top defender.

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Defending Big 12 champion Baylor has been tabbed as the preseason favorite to win the conference title again, based on a poll of media who cover the league.

It is the first time Baylor has been favored in the preseason vote. Coach Dave Aranda's Bears got 17 of the 41 first-place votes in the poll released Thursday.

Oklahoma was picked second ahead of Oklahoma State, which lost 21-16 to Baylor in the Big 12 championship game last December. Baylor and Oklahoma State were both 12-2 last season, while the Sooners were 11-2.

Texas junior running back Bijan Robinson, who ran for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, was named the preseason offensive player of the year in the media vote.

Kansas State junior linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah was picked as the top defender and Oklahoma junior quarterback Dillon Gabriel the best newcomer.

Anudike-Uzomah had 11 sacks and 14 1/2 tackles for loss last year. Gabriel transferred from UCF to Oklahoma after throwing for 8,037 yards and 70 touchdowns in 26 games with the Golden Knights.

The Sooners were picked as the preseason favorite each of the past six years. They saw their run of six consecutive conference titles end last season when they didn't make the Big 12 title game.

Oklahoma got 12 first-place votes. Oklahoma State got nine and Texas, picked fourth, got two. Kansas State, Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia, Texas Tech and Kansas rounded out the poll. Iowa State got the final first-place vote.

The Big 12 will be the first Power Five conference to conduct its football media days this summer. Its two-day session begins Wednesday with the introductory news conference for Brett Yormark, the conference's incoming commissioner.

More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25

IRVING, Texas (AP) — Media who cover the Big 12 have tabbed defending champion Baylor as the preseason favorite to win the conference football title again. It is the first time Baylor has been favored in the preseason vote. The Bears got 17 of the 41 first-place votes. Oklahoma had 12 first-place votes and was picked second ahead of Oklahoma State, which lost 21-16 to Baylor in the Big 12 championship game last December. Texas junior running back Bijan Robinson was named the preseason offensive player of the year in the media vote. Kansas State junior linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah was picked as the top defender.IRVING, Texas (AP) — Defending Big 12 champion Baylor has been tabbed as the preseason favorite to win the conference title again, based on a poll of media who cover the league.It is the first time Baylor has been favored in the preseason vote. Coach Dave Aranda's Bears got 17 of the 41 first-place votes in the poll released Thursday.Oklahoma was picked second ahead of Oklahoma State, which lost 21-16 to Baylor in the Big 12 championship game last December. Baylor and Oklahoma State were both 12-2 last season, while the Sooners were 11-2.Texas junior running back Bijan Robinson, who ran for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, was named the preseason offensive player of the year in the media vote.Kansas State junior linebacker Felix Anudike-Uzomah was picked as the top defender and Oklahoma junior quarterback Dillon Gabriel the best newcomer.Anudike-Uzomah had 11 sacks and 14 1/2 tackles for loss last year. Gabriel transferred from UCF to Oklahoma after throwing for 8,037 yards and 70 touchdowns in 26 games with the Golden Knights.The Sooners were picked as the preseason favorite each of the past six years. They saw their run of six consecutive conference titles end last season when they didn't make the Big 12 title game.Oklahoma got 12 first-place votes. Oklahoma State got nine and Texas, picked fourth, got two. Kansas State, Iowa State, TCU, West Virginia, Texas Tech and Kansas rounded out the poll. Iowa State got the final first-place vote.The Big 12 will be the first Power Five conference to conduct its football media days this summer. Its two-day session begins Wednesday with the introductory news conference for Brett Yormark, the conference's incoming commissioner.___More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25

Defending Big 12 champ Baylor tabbed preseason favorite

Blatter and Platini acquitted on charges of defrauding FIFA

BELLINZONA, Switzerland (AP) — Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini have been acquitted on charges of defrauding FIFA by a Swiss criminal court. The pair were among soccer's most powerful figures before being embroiled in corruption investigations. Swiss prosecutor Thomas Hildbrand had requested a 20-month suspended prison sentence for each at the end of the trial at the Federal Criminal Court of Switzerland in Bellinzona. The case was centered around a $2 million payment from FIFA to French soccer great Platini with Blatter's approval in 2011. Both men argued they had a verbal agreement in 1998 for Platini to be paid extra salary for work as Blatter's presidential adviser from 1998 to 2002.

Canadiens take Juraj Slafkovsky with top pick in NHL draft

MONTREAL (AP) — The Montreal Canadiens have selected Slovak winger Juraj Slafkovsky with the first pick in the NHL draft. He's the first player from Slovakia to be taken No. 1. The previous best was Marian Gaborik going third in 2000. This was the first year in nearly a decade there was suspense about who was going to be the No. 1 pick right up until the player's name was called. The Canadiens said they were considering Slafkovsky, Canadian center Shane Wright and American forward Logan Cooley. The New Jersey Devils surprisingly selected Slovak defenseman and Slafkovsky Olympic teammate Simon Nemec with the second pick.

NHL Draft: 3 Russians selected in 1st round amid concerns

Three Russian prospects were selected in the first round of the NHL draft despite increasing fears of their availability to play in North America due to travel restrictions stemming from the war in Ukraine. Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said he focused on selecting the best player available in using the 10th pick to draft defenseman Pavel Mintyukov. The Washington Capitals selected forward Ivan Miroshnichenko 20th, and Minnesota Wild chose right wing Danila Yurov four picks later. All three were projected to go in the first round, though questions were raised as to whether their draft stock might fall.

Analysis: Banchero's summer debut was a smashing success

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Paolo Banchero's debut was a smashing success and that had nothing to do with the Orlando Magic winning their Summer League opener against the Houston Rockets in Las Vegas on Thursday night. The No. 1 pick in this year's draft showed that the moment wasn't too big for him. With the likes of Jerry West, John Wall and DeMar DeRozan looking on, Banchero just kept making the right play on both ends of the floor.

Injured Nadal out of Wimbledon; Kyrgios advances to final

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from Wimbledon a day before he was supposed to play in the semifinals because of a torn abdominal muscle. Nadal announced that he was pulling out of the Grand Slam tournament at a news conference Thursday. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was scheduled to face Nick Kyrgios for a berth in the final on Friday. Kyrgios advanced to his first final at a major tournament. He will meet either Novak Djokovic or Cam Norrie for the championship on Sunday.

At Wimbledon, Jabeur 1st woman from Africa in pro Slam final

WIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Ons Jabeur has reached her first Grand Slam final with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory over good friend Tatjana Maria at Wimbledon. Jabeur is a 27-year-old from Tunisia who is the first African woman and Arab woman to get to the title match at a major tennis tournament. Maria is a 34-year-old German who is ranked 103rd and never had made it past the third round of a Grand Slam event before. The third-seeded Jabeur next will face 17th-seeded Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan for the championship on Saturday. Rybakina overwhelmed 2019 Wimbledon champion Simona Halep 6-3, 6-3 in the second semifinal. She also will be making her major final debut.

WNBA's Griner pleads guilty at her drug trial in Russia

MOSCOW (AP) — WNBA star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to drug possession charges on the second day of her trial in a Russian court in a case that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. Her abrupt guilty plea came amid a growing chorus of calls for Washington to do more to secure her freedom nearly five months after her arrest amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Russia over Ukraine. A senior Russian diplomat said earlier that no action could be taken by Moscow on Griner until the trial was over. Griner was detained at a Moscow airport while returning to play basketball in Russia. Police said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage.

US women beat Jamaica 5-0 at the W Championship

MONTERREY, Mexico (AP) — The U.S. women's national team qualified for the 2023 World Cup on Thursday night at the CONCACAF W Championship. The United States defeated Jamaica 5-0 at Estadio BBVA but had to wait until Haiti downed Mexico 3-0 in the late game to secure a spot in next summer's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. With two victories at the W Championship, the United States was atop its group and became the first team to win one of four World Cup berths up for grabs.

Commanders owner Dan Snyder, House committee at odds

WASHINGTON (AP) — Dan Snyder's attorney told the Committee on Oversight and Reform the Washington Commanders' owner is willing to testify by video conference regarding the investigation into the team's workplace culture following accusations of pervasive sexual harassment by team executives of women employees. In a letter sent to the committee and obtained by The Associated Press, attorney Karen Patton Seymour said Snyder is traveling outside the country and available for video testimony July 28 and 29. Seymour expressed concern because the committee countered with dates that conflict with her travel schedule and Snyder's.

Gonsolin goes to 11-0, Dodgers get 4 HRs to beat Cubs 5-3

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Tony Gonsolin pitched seven strong innings for his 11th victory in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 5-3 win over the Chicago Cubs. Mookie Betts hit a pair of leadoff homers and the Dodgers got a two-run blast from Gavin Lux and a solo shot by Justin Turner. Gonsolin is the first Dodgers pitcher to start a season 11-0 since Alex Wood in 2017. He and Houston's Justin Verlander are tied for most wins in the majors. The NL West-leading Dodgers won their fourth in a row. The Cubs got a two-run homer from Christopher Morel in the fifth.

Here are the scores from yesterday's sports events:

<h2>AP Sports Summary Brief at 6:32 a.m. CDT</h2>Blatter and Platini acquitted on charges of defrauding FIFABELLINZONA, Switzerland (AP) — Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini have been acquitted on charges of defrauding FIFA by a Swiss criminal court. The pair were among soccer's most powerful figures before being embroiled in corruption investigations. Swiss prosecutor Thomas Hildbrand had requested a 20-month suspended prison sentence for each at the end of the trial at the Federal Criminal Court of Switzerland in Bellinzona. The case was centered around a $2 million payment from FIFA to French soccer great Platini with Blatter's approval in 2011. Both men argued they had a verbal agreement in 1998 for Platini to be paid extra salary for work as Blatter's presidential adviser from 1998 to 2002.Canadiens take Juraj Slafkovsky with top pick in NHL draftMONTREAL (AP) — The Montreal Canadiens have selected Slovak winger Juraj Slafkovsky with the first pick in the NHL draft. He's the first player from Slovakia to be taken No. 1. The previous best was Marian Gaborik going third in 2000. This was the first year in nearly a decade there was suspense about who was going to be the No. 1 pick right up until the player's name was called. The Canadiens said they were considering Slafkovsky, Canadian center Shane Wright and American forward Logan Cooley. The New Jersey Devils surprisingly selected Slovak defenseman and Slafkovsky Olympic teammate Simon Nemec with the second pick.NHL Draft: 3 Russians selected in 1st round amid concernsThree Russian prospects were selected in the first round of the NHL draft despite increasing fears of their availability to play in North America due to travel restrictions stemming from the war in Ukraine. Anaheim Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek said he focused on selecting the best player available in using the 10th pick to draft defenseman Pavel Mintyukov. The Washington Capitals selected forward Ivan Miroshnichenko 20th, and Minnesota Wild chose right wing Danila Yurov four picks later. All three were projected to go in the first round, though questions were raised as to whether their draft stock might fall.Analysis: Banchero's summer debut was a smashing successLAS VEGAS (AP) — Paolo Banchero's debut was a smashing success and that had nothing to do with the Orlando Magic winning their Summer League opener against the Houston Rockets in Las Vegas on Thursday night. The No. 1 pick in this year's draft showed that the moment wasn't too big for him. With the likes of Jerry West, John Wall and DeMar DeRozan looking on, Banchero just kept making the right play on both ends of the floor.Injured Nadal out of Wimbledon; Kyrgios advances to finalWIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from Wimbledon a day before he was supposed to play in the semifinals because of a torn abdominal muscle. Nadal announced that he was pulling out of the Grand Slam tournament at a news conference Thursday. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was scheduled to face Nick Kyrgios for a berth in the final on Friday. Kyrgios advanced to his first final at a major tournament. He will meet either Novak Djokovic or Cam Norrie for the championship on Sunday.At Wimbledon, Jabeur 1st woman from Africa in pro Slam finalWIMBLEDON, England (AP) — Ons Jabeur has reached her first Grand Slam final with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory over good friend Tatjana Maria at Wimbledon. Jabeur is a 27-year-old from Tunisia who is the first African woman and Arab woman to get to the title match at a major tennis tournament. Maria is a 34-year-old German who is ranked 103rd and never had made it past the third round of a Grand Slam event before. The third-seeded Jabeur next will face 17th-seeded Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan for the championship on Saturday. Rybakina overwhelmed 2019 Wimbledon champion Simona Halep 6-3, 6-3 in the second semifinal. She also will be making her major final debut.WNBA's Griner pleads guilty at her drug trial in RussiaMOSCOW (AP) — WNBA star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to drug possession charges on the second day of her trial in a Russian court in a case that could see her sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. Her abrupt guilty plea came amid a growing chorus of calls for Washington to do more to secure her freedom nearly five months after her arrest amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Russia over Ukraine. A senior Russian diplomat said earlier that no action could be taken by Moscow on Griner until the trial was over. Griner was detained at a Moscow airport while returning to play basketball in Russia. Police said they found vape canisters containing cannabis oil in her luggage.US women beat Jamaica 5-0 at the W ChampionshipMONTERREY, Mexico (AP) — The U.S. women's national team qualified for the 2023 World Cup on Thursday night at the CONCACAF W Championship. The United States defeated Jamaica 5-0 at Estadio BBVA but had to wait until Haiti downed Mexico 3-0 in the late game to secure a spot in next summer's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. With two victories at the W Championship, the United States was atop its group and became the first team to win one of four World Cup berths up for grabs.Commanders owner Dan Snyder, House committee at oddsWASHINGTON (AP) — Dan Snyder's attorney told the Committee on Oversight and Reform the Washington Commanders' owner is willing to testify by video conference regarding the investigation into the team's workplace culture following accusations of pervasive sexual harassment by team executives of women employees. In a letter sent to the committee and obtained by The Associated Press, attorney Karen Patton Seymour said Snyder is traveling outside the country and available for video testimony July 28 and 29. Seymour expressed concern because the committee countered with dates that conflict with her travel schedule and Snyder's.Gonsolin goes to 11-0, Dodgers get 4 HRs to beat Cubs 5-3LOS ANGELES (AP) — Tony Gonsolin pitched seven strong innings for his 11th victory in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 5-3 win over the Chicago Cubs. Mookie Betts hit a pair of leadoff homers and the Dodgers got a two-run blast from Gavin Lux and a solo shot by Justin Turner. Gonsolin is the first Dodgers pitcher to start a season 11-0 since Alex Wood in 2017. He and Houston's Justin Verlander are tied for most wins in the majors. The NL West-leading Dodgers won their fourth in a row. The Cubs got a two-run homer from Christopher Morel in the fifth.AP-ScorecardHere are the scores from yesterday's sports events:___AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Houston	5	Kansas City	2	Final	Baltimore	4	L.A. Angels	1	Final	N.Y. Yankees	6	Boston	5	Final	Detroit	2	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Seattle	8	Toronto	3	___NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	4	Cincinnati	2	Final	Philadelphia	5	Washington	3	Final	N.Y. Mets	10	Miami	0	Final	Cincinnati	5	Pittsburgh	1	Final	St. Louis	3	Atlanta	2	Final	Colorado	4	Arizona	3	Final	San Diego	2	San Francisco	1	Final	L.A. Dodgers	5	Chicago Cubs	3	___WOMEN'S NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	93	Indiana	84	Final	Phoenix	84	New York	81	Final	Seattle	106	Los Angeles	69	___TODAY'S SPORTS SCHEDULE___INTERLEAGUE		Tampa Bay	at	Cincinnati	6:40 p.m.	___AMERICAN LEAGUE		L-A Angels	at	Baltimore	7:05 p.m.			N-Y Yankees	at	Boston	7:10 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Texas	8:05 p.m.			Cleveland	at	Kansas City	8:10 p.m.			Detroit	at	Chi White Sox	8:10 p.m.			Houston	at	Oakland	9:40 p.m.			Toronto	at	Seattle	10:10 p.m.	___NATIONAL LEAGUE		Miami	at	N-Y Mets	7:10 p.m.			Washington	at	Atlanta	7:20 p.m.			Pittsburgh	at	Milwaukee	8:10 p.m.			Philadelphia	at	St. Louis	8:15 p.m.			Colorado	at	Arizona	9:40 p.m.			San Francisco	at	San Diego	9:40 p.m.			Chi Cubs	at	L-A Dodgers	10:10 p.m.	___MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER		D.C. United	at	Philadelphia	7:30 p.m.			LA Galaxy	at	Los Angeles FC	10 p.m.			Minnesota	at	Vancouver	10:30 p.m.	___

Sports Headlines for Friday

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/wichita-wind-surge-to-host-high-school-football-rivalry">Via WindSurge.com</a>

WICHITA — The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will host their first high school football game, the 60th anniversary of the “Holy War” featuring rivals Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt. Carmel at Riverfront Stadium. The game will be played on Friday, October 7 at 7 pm.

“Hosting football games at Riverfront Stadium was always part of the plan when we designed the facility,” said Wind Surge Partner/CEO Jordan Kobritz. “We proved last year it could be done seamlessly when we hosted the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference championship game. The Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel matchup, the premier high school game in Wichita, will allow both players and fans to enjoy a Wichita tradition in a first-class venue. I want to thank the leadership at Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt Carmel for their cooperation in making the game at Riverfront Stadium a reality.”

“At Bishop Carroll, we strive to create lasting memories for our students,” said Bishop Carroll Athletic Director, Tyler Fraizer. “Playing in Riverfront Stadium is guaranteed to be an experience they will not forget. A Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel game will showcase the finest this area has to offer: community…high school athletics... and our host facility, Riverfront Stadium. We are excited to host this event for our players, students, staff, and our strong fan base. I want to thank the incredible staff with the Wind Surge for making this game possible.”

"Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School is honored to participate in the first high school football game at Riverfront Stadium,” said Rob Knapp, President of Kapaun Mt Carmel Catholic High School. “We want to thank the entire Wind Surge organization for making this two-year home and home series with Bishop Carroll a reality. Riverfront Stadium is an outstanding facility and the natural excitement over the traditional Kapaun versus Carroll football game will be accentuated in this great venue.”

Additional details and ticket information will be posted on <a href="http://www.WindSurge.com">www.WindSurge.com</a> as they become available.

The first football game played at Riverfront was the KJCCC championship last fall.

<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/news/wichita-wind-surge-to-host-high-school-football-rivalry">Via WindSurge.com</a>WICHITA — The Wichita Wind Surge announced today they will host their first high school football game, the 60th anniversary of the “Holy War” featuring rivals Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt. Carmel at Riverfront Stadium. The game will be played on Friday, October 7 at 7 pm.“Hosting football games at Riverfront Stadium was always part of the plan when we designed the facility,” said Wind Surge Partner/CEO Jordan Kobritz. “We proved last year it could be done seamlessly when we hosted the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference championship game. The Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel matchup, the premier high school game in Wichita, will allow both players and fans to enjoy a Wichita tradition in a first-class venue. I want to thank the leadership at Bishop Carroll and Kapaun Mt Carmel for their cooperation in making the game at Riverfront Stadium a reality.”“At Bishop Carroll, we strive to create lasting memories for our students,” said Bishop Carroll Athletic Director, Tyler Fraizer. “Playing in Riverfront Stadium is guaranteed to be an experience they will not forget. A Bishop Carroll/Kapaun Mt. Carmel game will showcase the finest this area has to offer: community…high school athletics... and our host facility, Riverfront Stadium. We are excited to host this event for our players, students, staff, and our strong fan base. I want to thank the incredible staff with the Wind Surge for making this game possible.”"Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School is honored to participate in the first high school football game at Riverfront Stadium,” said Rob Knapp, President of Kapaun Mt Carmel Catholic High School. “We want to thank the entire Wind Surge organization for making this two-year home and home series with Bishop Carroll a reality. Riverfront Stadium is an outstanding facility and the natural excitement over the traditional Kapaun versus Carroll football game will be accentuated in this great venue.”Additional details and ticket information will be posted on <a href="http://www.WindSurge.com">www.WindSurge.com</a> as they become available.The first football game played at Riverfront was the KJCCC championship last fall.

Home of the Wind Surge to host high school football game

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Thursday Morning

Wichita, KS- Blaze Alexander led the Amarillo Sod Poodles to a 4-2 victory over the Wind Surge on Wednesday night behind a go-ahead two run homer in the sixth inning as Amarillo tied up the series.

Amarillo took the lead in the top of the sixth behind a two-run homer from shortstop Blaze Alexander to give the Sod Poodles a 4-2 lead. Alexander finished the night two for four with three RBIs.

The Surge tied the game in the bottom of the first as Cole Sturgeon hit an RBI single with the bases loaded to make it a 1-1 ballgame. Sturgeon finished the night one for four with an RBI.

Andrew Bechtold went three for four with an RBI in the ballgame including an RBI double that scored DaShawn Keirsey, Jr as Wichita tied the game again in the bottom of the third.

Louie Varland got the nod on the mound for Wichita and pitched six innings and allowed four runs on seven hits and tallied six strikeouts before being relieved by Cody Laweryson in the seventh inning.

The first pitch Thursday night is at 7:05 p.m.

Wichita, KS- Blaze Alexander led the Amarillo Sod Poodles to a 4-2 victory over the Wind Surge on Wednesday night behind a go-ahead two run homer in the sixth inning as Amarillo tied up the series.Amarillo took the lead in the top of the sixth behind a two-run homer from shortstop Blaze Alexander to give the Sod Poodles a 4-2 lead. Alexander finished the night two for four with three RBIs.The Surge tied the game in the bottom of the first as Cole Sturgeon hit an RBI single with the bases loaded to make it a 1-1 ballgame. Sturgeon finished the night one for four with an RBI.Andrew Bechtold went three for four with an RBI in the ballgame including an RBI double that scored DaShawn Keirsey, Jr as Wichita tied the game again in the bottom of the third.Louie Varland got the nod on the mound for Wichita and pitched six innings and allowed four runs on seven hits and tallied six strikeouts before being relieved by Cody Laweryson in the seventh inning.The first pitch Thursday night is at 7:05 p.m.

Surge lose to Sod Poodles Wednesday

HOUSTON (AP) — Whit Merrifield, Hunter Dozier and Emmanuel Rivera all homered as the Kansas City Royals roughed up Cristian Javier early and held on for a 7-4 win over Houston on Wednesday night, ending the Astros' major league-best eight-game winning streak.

Javier (6-4) had allowed one hit in 14 innings over his last two starts, which included seven innings of a combined no-hitter against the Yankees on June 25. He struck out 27 in those two appearances, both wins. But the Royals got to him almost immediately.

Merrifield sent Javier's third pitch into the seats in left field for his fourth homer this season. Javier walked Andrew Benintendi before Dozier’s two-out shot to the Crawford Boxes in left field made it 3-0. Rivera homered to left-center in the second.

Brad Keller (4-9) allowed five hits and four runs in 5 2/3 innings and the Royals' bullpen shut the Astros down the rest of the way. Scott Barlow allowed one hit in a scoreless ninth for his 13th save.

HOUSTON (AP) — Whit Merrifield, Hunter Dozier and Emmanuel Rivera all homered as the Kansas City Royals roughed up Cristian Javier early and held on for a 7-4 win over Houston on Wednesday night, ending the Astros' major league-best eight-game winning streak.Javier (6-4) had allowed one hit in 14 innings over his last two starts, which included seven innings of a combined no-hitter against the Yankees on June 25. He struck out 27 in those two appearances, both wins. But the Royals got to him almost immediately.Merrifield sent Javier's third pitch into the seats in left field for his fourth homer this season. Javier walked Andrew Benintendi before Dozier’s two-out shot to the Crawford Boxes in left field made it 3-0. Rivera homered to left-center in the second.Brad Keller (4-9) allowed five hits and four runs in 5 2/3 innings and the Royals' bullpen shut the Astros down the rest of the way. Scott Barlow allowed one hit in a scoreless ninth for his 13th save.

Royals win Wednesday over Houston

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🎙 Eagle Radio Sports for Wednesday Morning

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch CC standout wide receiver Malik Benson is headed to Alabama.

The Kansas native announced his decision Tuesday on Instagram, saying he is "100 percent committed."

Benson is considered the No. 1 JUCO recruit in the 2023 class after a dominant year at Hutchinson Community College, per 247Sports. He finished last season with 43 catches for 1,229 yards and 11 touchdowns in 11 games.

After he was unrated as a high school player, Benson received over two dozen scholarship offers after one year in JUCO. He was recently named the 2022 Greater Wichita Sports Commission Junior College Male Athlete of the Year.

The 6'1", 185-pound player eventually chose Alabama over Georgia, LSU, Oregon and Tennessee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ROB DREHER Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutch CC standout wide receiver Malik Benson is headed to Alabama. The Kansas native announced his decision Tuesday on Instagram, saying he is "100 percent committed." Benson is considered the No. 1 JUCO recruit in the 2023 class after a dominant year at Hutchinson Community College, per 247Sports. He finished last season with 43 catches for 1,229 yards and 11 touchdowns in 11 games. After he was unrated as a high school player, Benson received over two dozen scholarship offers after one year in JUCO. He was recently named the 2022 Greater Wichita Sports Commission Junior College Male Athlete of the Year. The 6'1", 185-pound player eventually chose Alabama over Georgia, LSU, Oregon and Tennessee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benson headed to Bama

HOUSTON (AP) —  Long established as a star at the plate, Yordan Alvarez has been showing flashes of brilliance on defense this season, too.

Alvarez threw out Hunter Dozier at the plate from just short of the warning track in left field to preserve a two-run, eighth-inning lead, then hit his 25th homer as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7 on Tuesday night.

The Astros also got homers from Jeremy Peña, Alex Bregman and Aledmys Díaz as they extended their winning streak to a major league-best eight games.

Houston trailed 4-3 entering the fifth inning before Peña homered off Zack Greinke (2-5) to tie it. Bregman’s two-run shot later in the fifth put the Astros ahead 6-4.

Alvarez's 25 homers are tied with Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber for second in the majors, four behind the Yankees' Aaron Judge.

Luis Garcia (7-5) allowed eight hits and five runs in 6 1/3 innings for his fourth straight win. Rafael Montero allowed a run on a groundout in the ninth before striking out the next two batters for his sixth save.

Greinke tied a season high by allowing 10 hits with six runs in five innings in his first start against Houston since signing with the Royals in the offseason. The veteran spent 2 1/2 seasons with the Astros, going to the World Series in 2019 and last year.

MJ Melendez hit a solo homer off Garcia in the second and Bobby Witt Jr. connected off him for a two-run shot in the third. It was the third home run of the series for Melendez, who went deep twice in the series opener on Monday.

Díaz hit a two-run homer in the seventh off Kowar.

HOUSTON (AP) — Long established as a star at the plate, Yordan Alvarez has been showing flashes of brilliance on defense this season, too.Alvarez threw out Hunter Dozier at the plate from just short of the warning track in left field to preserve a two-run, eighth-inning lead, then hit his 25th homer as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7 on Tuesday night.The Astros also got homers from Jeremy Peña, Alex Bregman and Aledmys Díaz as they extended their winning streak to a major league-best eight games.Houston trailed 4-3 entering the fifth inning before Peña homered off Zack Greinke (2-5) to tie it. Bregman’s two-run shot later in the fifth put the Astros ahead 6-4.Alvarez's 25 homers are tied with Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber for second in the majors, four behind the Yankees' Aaron Judge.Luis Garcia (7-5) allowed eight hits and five runs in 6 1/3 innings for his fourth straight win. Rafael Montero allowed a run on a groundout in the ninth before striking out the next two batters for his sixth save.Greinke tied a season high by allowing 10 hits with six runs in five innings in his first start against Houston since signing with the Royals in the offseason. The veteran spent 2 1/2 seasons with the Astros, going to the World Series in 2019 and last year.MJ Melendez hit a solo homer off Garcia in the second and Bobby Witt Jr. connected off him for a two-run shot in the third. It was the third home run of the series for Melendez, who went deep twice in the series opener on Monday.Díaz hit a two-run homer in the seventh off Kowar.

Astros win Tuesday over Royals

MAIZE, Kan.—Maize High School QB senior Avery Johnson committed to K-State Tuesday afternoon at a press conference held at Maize High.

Johnson just attended an elite camp in California this past weekend.&nbsp; His final three teams were Oregon, Washington and K-State.&nbsp; Johnson is the 12 ranked quarterback in the country. He will be part of the 2023 recruiting class.&nbsp; Johnson will join another AVCTL player, running back Dylan Edwards from Derby, who committed to K-State last week.

MAIZE, Kan.—Maize High School QB senior Avery Johnson committed to K-State Tuesday afternoon at a press conference held at Maize High.Johnson just attended an elite camp in California this past weekend.&nbsp; His final three teams were Oregon, Washington and K-State.&nbsp; Johnson is the 12 ranked quarterback in the country. He will be part of the 2023 recruiting class.&nbsp; Johnson will join another AVCTL player, running back Dylan Edwards from Derby, who committed to K-State last week.