KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-run homer and Michael Wacha pitched 5 2/3 strong innings as the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night.

Garcia hit Pablo López’s first pitch high above the left-field bullpen after Vinnie Pasquantino singled with two out in the third inning for a 2-0 lead. Pasquantino and Garcia each had a pair of hits.

Brooks Lee and Jhonny Pereda hit consecutive doubles in the fifth inning for the Twins' run. Pereda made his Twins debut behind the plate.

The Twins have lost five straight and have baseball’s worst record since the July 31 trade deadline at 11-22.

Wacha (9-11) allowed a run on four hits and two walks, striking out five. He has allowed fewer than three runs in nine of his 10 career starts against the Twins.

Carlos Estévez earned his major league-best 38th save with help from a sliding catch by center fielder Kyle Isbel.

Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left the game</a>&nbsp;after six innings due to low back spasms.

López (5-4) returned from injury for his first start in three months, allowing two runs on six hits in six innings, striking out four. López was placed on the 15-day Injured List on June 4 with a right shoulder strain.

Initially called out on a force at second, Garcia was ruled safe when the Royals challenged that shortstop Lee had dropped the ball before touching second.

Through the first seven games of their current homestand, the Royals are 2 for 26 with runners in scoring position while scoring 10 of 14 runs via home runs.

Twins RHP Joe Ryan (13-7, 3.08 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (4-5, 3.99) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757124612793.png" alt="Photo from Kansas Royals video" />
 <figcaption>Photo from Kansas Royals video</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-run homer and Michael Wacha pitched 5 2/3 strong innings as the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night.Garcia hit Pablo López’s first pitch high above the left-field bullpen after Vinnie Pasquantino singled with two out in the third inning for a 2-0 lead. Pasquantino and Garcia each had a pair of hits.Brooks Lee and Jhonny Pereda hit consecutive doubles in the fifth inning for the Twins' run. Pereda made his Twins debut behind the plate.The Twins have lost five straight and have baseball’s worst record since the July 31 trade deadline at 11-22.Wacha (9-11) allowed a run on four hits and two walks, striking out five. He has allowed fewer than three runs in nine of his 10 career starts against the Twins.Carlos Estévez earned his major league-best 38th save with help from a sliding catch by center fielder Kyle Isbel.Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left the game</a>&nbsp;after six innings due to low back spasms.López (5-4) returned from injury for his first start in three months, allowing two runs on six hits in six innings, striking out four. López was placed on the 15-day Injured List on June 4 with a right shoulder strain.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Initially called out on a force at second, Garcia was ruled safe when the Royals challenged that shortstop Lee had dropped the ball before touching second.<h2>Key Stat</h2>Through the first seven games of their current homestand, the Royals are 2 for 26 with runners in scoring position while scoring 10 of 14 runs via home runs.<h2>Up Next</h2>Twins RHP Joe Ryan (13-7, 3.08 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (4-5, 3.99) on Saturday.

⚾ Garcia's two-run homer lifts the Royals over the Twins

All games kickoff at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted

Buhler at Mulvane Central Christian at Sunrise Christian Academy Fairfield vs. Hartford Halstead at Hesston Haven vs. Hillsboro Hutchinson at Andover Central Little River vs. Chase County Lyons vs. Beloit McPherson at Great Bend Moundridge vs. Bennington Nickerson vs. Conway Springs Pratt at Hoisington Pratt-Skyline at Norwich Pretty Prairie at Lyndon Sterling vs. Sedgwick Trinity Catholic vs. Inman

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520482079.png" alt="EAGLE Media High School Football Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media High School Football Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure>All games kickoff at 7 p.m. unless otherwise notedBuhler at Mulvane Central Christian at Sunrise Christian Academy Fairfield vs. Hartford Halstead at Hesston Haven vs. Hillsboro Hutchinson at Andover Central Little River vs. Chase County Lyons vs. Beloit McPherson at Great Bend Moundridge vs. Bennington Nickerson vs. Conway Springs Pratt at Hoisington Pratt-Skyline at Norwich Pretty Prairie at Lyndon Sterling vs. Sedgwick Trinity Catholic vs. Inman

🏈 Week 1 Hutch Post area high school football schedule

🎧⚾ Royals salvage finale; 🏈 Chiefs play Chargers tonight; 🏈 high school season begins

ANDOVER, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawks will open the 2025 season on the road Friday night as they will travel to Andover to take on the Andover Central Jaguars. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. from Gowans Stadium.

4pm - Kansas Kickoff Show (Kpreps and Sports in Kansas)

6:30pm - Salthawk Pregame (Papa John's Pizza)

Catch the Salthawk Football game tonight on KHUT Country 102.9FM due to NFL Football with the Kansas City Chiefs on KWBW tonight only.

The award winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew consisting of Glen Grunwald with the play-by-play and color analysts Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato. 

Video stream of tonight's game will be provided by the Andover Central Hudl.com Channell. &nbsp;

The live broadcast will begin at 6:50 p.m. <a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/andover/organization/2486/andover-central-high-school/schedule?date=2025-08-31T05%3A00%3A00.000Z&amp;range=Week&amp;s=U2NoZWR1bGVFbnRyeVB1YmxpY1N1bW1hcnk2N2Y0OTFkNGViMWQ3YTM1MjNkN2M3OGM%3D">CLICK HERE</a>

https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/andover/organization/2486/andover-central-high-school/schedule?date=2025-08-31T05%3A00%3A00.000Z&amp;range=Week&amp;s=U2NoZWR1bGVFbnRyeVB1YmxpY1N1bW1hcnk2N2Y0OTFkNGViMWQ3YTM1MjNkN2M3OGM%3D

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757035563866.png" alt="Game Day Hutch @ Andover Central on Country102.9fm" />
 <figcaption>Game Day Hutch @ Andover Central on Country102.9fm</figcaption>
 </figure>ANDOVER, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawks will open the 2025 season on the road Friday night as they will travel to Andover to take on the Andover Central Jaguars. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. from Gowans Stadium.4pm - Kansas Kickoff Show (Kpreps and Sports in Kansas)6:30pm - Salthawk Pregame (Papa John's Pizza)7:00pm - KickoffCatch the Salthawk Football game tonight on KHUT Country 102.9FM due to NFL Football with the Kansas City Chiefs on KWBW tonight only.The award winning EAGLE Media sportscast crew consisting of Glen Grunwald with the play-by-play and color analysts Dan "Coach Nac" Naccarato. Video stream of tonight's game will be provided by the Andover Central Hudl.com Channell. &nbsp;The live broadcast will begin at 6:50 p.m. <a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/andover/organization/2486/andover-central-high-school/schedule?date=2025-08-31T05%3A00%3A00.000Z&amp;range=Week&amp;s=U2NoZWR1bGVFbnRyeVB1YmxpY1N1bW1hcnk2N2Y0OTFkNGViMWQ3YTM1MjNkN2M3OGM%3D">CLICK HERE</a>https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ks/andover/organization/2486/andover-central-high-school/schedule?date=2025-08-31T05%3A00%3A00.000Z&amp;range=Week&amp;s=U2NoZWR1bGVFbnRyeVB1YmxpY1N1bW1hcnk2N2Y0OTFkNGViMWQ3YTM1MjNkN2M3OGM%3D

🏈🎥🎧 Hutch High travels to Andover Central for season opener

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a two-out solo home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-3 on Thursday night to avoid a sweep in a three-game series.

The Royals hit four solo homers in a game where all seven runs came on home runs.

Lucas Erceg (7-4) struck out two in one inning and Carlos Estévez picked up his major league-best 37th save.

Angels starter Kyle Hendricks allowed two runs on three hits in six innings, while Kansas City starter Noah Cameron allowed three runs on five hits in five innings.

The Angels got on the board in the first on a three-run homer by Luis Rengifo. With two outs, Taylor Ward singled, Jo Adell walked and Rengifo hit a slider 384 feet down the left-field line.

The Royals answered in the second on Adam Frazier's home run, the 1,000th hit of his MLB career. Vinnie Pasquantino connected on his 29th home run of the season leading off the fourth inning to trim the deficit to 3-2.

The Royals tied it when Salvador Perez hit his 24th home run of the season, leading off the seventh inning.

After the Royals tied the score in the bottom of the seventh, Erceg retired the Angels in order in the eighth.

With his home run, Perez reached 495 career RBIs at Kauffman Stadium, breaking a tie with Frank White for the third most RBIs in the history of the ballpark. He trails George Brett (839) and Hal McRae (534).

The Angels return to start a three-game series with the Athletics. The Angels will send RHP José Soriano (10-9, 3.68 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Mason Barnett (0-1, 11.25).

The Royals continue their nine-game homestand against the Twins. RHP Michael Wacha (8-11, 3.52) will start for Kansas City. Minnesota has not named its starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757038330352.png" alt="Image Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Image Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a two-out solo home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-3 on Thursday night to avoid a sweep in a three-game series.The Royals hit four solo homers in a game where all seven runs came on home runs.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F2313421895755658%2F&show_text=true&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Lucas Erceg (7-4) struck out two in one inning and Carlos Estévez picked up his major league-best 37th save.Angels starter Kyle Hendricks allowed two runs on three hits in six innings, while Kansas City starter Noah Cameron allowed three runs on five hits in five innings.The Angels got on the board in the first on a three-run homer by Luis Rengifo. With two outs, Taylor Ward singled, Jo Adell walked and Rengifo hit a slider 384 feet down the left-field line.The Royals answered in the second on Adam Frazier's home run, the 1,000th hit of his MLB career. Vinnie Pasquantino connected on his 29th home run of the season leading off the fourth inning to trim the deficit to 3-2.The Royals tied it when Salvador Perez hit his 24th home run of the season, leading off the seventh inning.Ryan Zeferjahn (6-5) took the loss.<h2>Key Moment</h2>After the Royals tied the score in the bottom of the seventh, Erceg retired the Angels in order in the eighth.<h2>Key Stat</h2>With his home run, Perez reached 495 career RBIs at Kauffman Stadium, breaking a tie with Frank White for the third most RBIs in the history of the ballpark. He trails George Brett (839) and Hal McRae (534).<h2>Up Next</h2>The Angels return to start a three-game series with the Athletics. The Angels will send RHP José Soriano (10-9, 3.68 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Mason Barnett (0-1, 11.25).The Royals continue their nine-game homestand against the Twins. RHP Michael Wacha (8-11, 3.52) will start for Kansas City. Minnesota has not named its starter.

⚾ Bobby Witt Jr.'s eighth inning homer helps KC avoid sweep

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

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the coaching staff intact after a national title run and a roster heavy on returners at the right spots, No. 1 Hutchinson Community College heads to Roswell this week seeking a clean, businesslike opener against New Mexico Military Institute. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. Saturday from Colt Field on the NMMI campus.&nbsp;

The game will be broadcasted on the flagship station for Blue Dragon football and basketball, <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Country 102.9 KHUT-FM</a>&nbsp;with Countdown to Kickoff starting at 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;

“We’re where we need to be,” head coach Drew Dallas said. “Every day gets a little cleaner. Now it’s time to gauge where we’re at against another opponent.”

Dallas expects a charged, on-campus military-school atmosphere and a natural-grass surface reminiscent of last November’s trip to Georgia Military. “It’ll be a rowdy environment with the cadets right on top of you,” he said. “Handling our emotions and the little things, penalties, ball security, quarterback-center exchange, that’s how you escape Week 1 with a win when both teams are unveiling new wrinkles.”

Dallas named Christian Johnson the starting quarterback and praised his command of the system. “He’s taken that next step,” Dallas said. “He can make every throw and make plays with his feet. His experience gives us stability early.”

Offensive Coordinator Tony Koehling called this “as much experience as we’ve had, top to bottom,” and said Johnson’s third year should expand what the Dragons can do at the line of scrimmage. “With Christian being a third-year guy, it helps the offensive line, too,” Koehling said. “We can put a little more on the quarterback’s back with in-game adjustments.”

Dallas also emphasized Hudson Ferralez as a priority No. 2 who will see meaningful early reps. “Hudson will be a big part of what we do,” he said. “We want to bring him along the way we did with Christian last year.”

The run game shifts from a feature back to a committee after the graduation of Waymond Jordan Jr., who's now the starting tailback at Southern California, Dallas pointed to Rashaud Hurt and Titus Petteway among a “good host” of backs. “Early in the year you work through rotations with live tackling,” he said. “Who protects the ball? Who gets yards after contact? Those answers come under the lights.”

On the perimeter, returning playmakers Derrick Salley Jr., L.T. Robinson and Kordell Gouldsby headline the receivers. Dallas said Gouldsby’s leap from return ace to complete receiver has been noticeable: “We’ve known what he can do with the ball in his hands; now he’s a real receiver threat.” Tight end is deep and diverse with Cole Coonrod, Jabari Harris and Kaiden Seamster, giving the staff personnel flexibility.

“The identity may tweak week to week,” Koehling said. “We’ll stay true to our principles, but we’ll do what this group does best.”

Koehling’s biggest early read: the interior is ahead of schedule, tackles are talented but new. “We’re really strong inside at center and both guards, experience and depth, and we can rotate,” he said. At tackle, transfers Gus Thuston and Leon Brigham “fit right away,” while 6-foot-9 Jacob Hawks (Washburn Rural) is a massive, high-ceiling freshman who “might be one of the biggest recruits to come out of here if it clicks.”

The line has “really gotten good” at gap-scheme concepts. “Our counters and power, they understand how to run it versus a lot of fronts,” Koehling said. Simplicity is the philosophy: “I try to keep it universal so they can play fast.”

Defensive Coordinator Matt Wallerstedt said the unit is “executing at a high level” with a second offseason in the scheme. “We’ve got good depth; we can keep guys fresh,” he said. “This D-line can be special.”

Inside, K.J. Henson has paired his pass-rush with improved run fits; Jeffrey Manns II can play both three-tech and nose; TaVeon Robinson has matured from raw to explosive; newcomers Jacob Griffin and Elijah Jackson add heft. “They’ve grown up,” Wallerstedt said. “We can line-change up front and still affect the passer.”

Linebacker is deeper than last fall. Brady Whitman and freshman Jack Sells are battling at Mike; Tyler Lassiter (Garden City transfer) brings throwback physicality as he returns from a foot issue; Teegan Haines (McPherson HS, Garden City CC), Chris Robinson (Oklahoma State) and Amir Hill (moved down from safety) round out a long, athletic room. “We’ll grade and rotate,” Wallerstedt said, noting last year’s successful week-to-week combinations.

On the back end, boundary-corner-turned-safety DJ Jester and M.J. Graham “quarterback” the coverages. Corners Rayshawn Reynolds Jr. and Earl Parker had strong springs; MJ Harrell swings between field corner and nickel; transfer Da'Mun Allen is in the boundary mix; Johnathan Boyd and Bryce Summerall give nickel length and explosiveness. “We’re roughly three-deep across five DB spots,” Wallerstedt said.

The emphasis now is emotional control. “We’ve got better chemistry and leadership,” he said. “Last year, when things wobbled, it could snowball. A guy like DJ Jester has flipped, now he’s the one steadying the group. The test is simple: if we get scored on the first drive, do we play 60 level-headed minutes?”

Dallas called hidden-yardage “a big reason we won tight games” last year, and co-Special Teams Coordinator Andy Krause expects that to remain a weekly advantage even with new specialists.

Placekicker Alejandro De La Poza (Mallorca, Spain/Sunrise Christian) brings accuracy, height and upside. The punting room is headlined by Denzel Moore, “NFL-looking hang and turnover; he can punt with either foot,” Krause said, with Max Flowers and Sam Rayborn providing depth as Rayborn plays into shape. Long snapper is an open competition between veteran Dalton Rokey and freshman Austin Cornett; Krause praised Rokey’s accuracy and Cornett’s speed and physicality.

In the return game, Gouldsby remains the focal point. “We coach special teams like offense and defense,” Krause said. “Field position and momentum, we want that advantage every week.”

Dallas is in Year 6 as head coach and credits administrative support and community buy-in for the program’s stability. “Our families love Hutchinson,” he said. “Consistency with the staff makes everything run more efficiently and trickles down to the players.”

Wallerstedt said an intact defensive staff accelerated the spring install. “Last year everyone was swimming,” he said. “This year, coaches and veterans taught it together. It’s been smooth.”

Koehling echoed the fit. “Coach Dallas recruited me here,” he said. “We see the game the same way. It’s a good place to work, and a good place for players to grow.”

No new uniforms for the Blue Dragons in 2025, but “same look, maybe new combos,” Dallas said. The program’s core remains unchanged: play fast, be clean, lean on depth and win the field-position battle.

“Just another opportunity to showcase who we want to be,” Dallas said. “We’ll adjust to what we see and let our experience show up in the critical moments.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756998799863.jpeg" alt="Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston</figcaption>
 </figure>By <a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the coaching staff intact after a national title run and a roster heavy on returners at the right spots, No. 1 Hutchinson Community College heads to Roswell this week seeking a clean, businesslike opener against New Mexico Military Institute. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. Saturday from Colt Field on the NMMI campus.&nbsp;The game will be broadcasted on the flagship station for Blue Dragon football and basketball, <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Country 102.9 KHUT-FM</a>&nbsp;with Countdown to Kickoff starting at 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;“We’re where we need to be,” head coach Drew Dallas said. “Every day gets a little cleaner. Now it’s time to gauge where we’re at against another opponent.”Dallas expects a charged, on-campus military-school atmosphere and a natural-grass surface reminiscent of last November’s trip to Georgia Military. “It’ll be a rowdy environment with the cadets right on top of you,” he said. “Handling our emotions and the little things, penalties, ball security, quarterback-center exchange, that’s how you escape Week 1 with a win when both teams are unveiling new wrinkles.”Dallas named Christian Johnson the starting quarterback and praised his command of the system. “He’s taken that next step,” Dallas said. “He can make every throw and make plays with his feet. His experience gives us stability early.”Offensive Coordinator Tony Koehling called this “as much experience as we’ve had, top to bottom,” and said Johnson’s third year should expand what the Dragons can do at the line of scrimmage. “With Christian being a third-year guy, it helps the offensive line, too,” Koehling said. “We can put a little more on the quarterback’s back with in-game adjustments.”Dallas also emphasized Hudson Ferralez as a priority No. 2 who will see meaningful early reps. “Hudson will be a big part of what we do,” he said. “We want to bring him along the way we did with Christian last year.”The run game shifts from a feature back to a committee after the graduation of Waymond Jordan Jr., who's now the starting tailback at Southern California, Dallas pointed to Rashaud Hurt and Titus Petteway among a “good host” of backs. “Early in the year you work through rotations with live tackling,” he said. “Who protects the ball? Who gets yards after contact? Those answers come under the lights.”On the perimeter, returning playmakers Derrick Salley Jr., L.T. Robinson and Kordell Gouldsby headline the receivers. Dallas said Gouldsby’s leap from return ace to complete receiver has been noticeable: “We’ve known what he can do with the ball in his hands; now he’s a real receiver threat.” Tight end is deep and diverse with Cole Coonrod, Jabari Harris and Kaiden Seamster, giving the staff personnel flexibility.“The identity may tweak week to week,” Koehling said. “We’ll stay true to our principles, but we’ll do what this group does best.”Koehling’s biggest early read: the interior is ahead of schedule, tackles are talented but new. “We’re really strong inside at center and both guards, experience and depth, and we can rotate,” he said. At tackle, transfers Gus Thuston and Leon Brigham “fit right away,” while 6-foot-9 Jacob Hawks (Washburn Rural) is a massive, high-ceiling freshman who “might be one of the biggest recruits to come out of here if it clicks.”The line has “really gotten good” at gap-scheme concepts. “Our counters and power, they understand how to run it versus a lot of fronts,” Koehling said. Simplicity is the philosophy: “I try to keep it universal so they can play fast.”Defensive Coordinator Matt Wallerstedt said the unit is “executing at a high level” with a second offseason in the scheme. “We’ve got good depth; we can keep guys fresh,” he said. “This D-line can be special.”Inside, K.J. Henson has paired his pass-rush with improved run fits; Jeffrey Manns II can play both three-tech and nose; TaVeon Robinson has matured from raw to explosive; newcomers Jacob Griffin and Elijah Jackson add heft. “They’ve grown up,” Wallerstedt said. “We can line-change up front and still affect the passer.”Linebacker is deeper than last fall. Brady Whitman and freshman Jack Sells are battling at Mike; Tyler Lassiter (Garden City transfer) brings throwback physicality as he returns from a foot issue; Teegan Haines (McPherson HS, Garden City CC), Chris Robinson (Oklahoma State) and Amir Hill (moved down from safety) round out a long, athletic room. “We’ll grade and rotate,” Wallerstedt said, noting last year’s successful week-to-week combinations.On the back end, boundary-corner-turned-safety DJ Jester and M.J. Graham “quarterback” the coverages. Corners Rayshawn Reynolds Jr. and Earl Parker had strong springs; MJ Harrell swings between field corner and nickel; transfer Da'Mun Allen is in the boundary mix; Johnathan Boyd and Bryce Summerall give nickel length and explosiveness. “We’re roughly three-deep across five DB spots,” Wallerstedt said.The emphasis now is emotional control. “We’ve got better chemistry and leadership,” he said. “Last year, when things wobbled, it could snowball. A guy like DJ Jester has flipped, now he’s the one steadying the group. The test is simple: if we get scored on the first drive, do we play 60 level-headed minutes?”Dallas called hidden-yardage “a big reason we won tight games” last year, and co-Special Teams Coordinator Andy Krause expects that to remain a weekly advantage even with new specialists.Placekicker Alejandro De La Poza (Mallorca, Spain/Sunrise Christian) brings accuracy, height and upside. The punting room is headlined by Denzel Moore, “NFL-looking hang and turnover; he can punt with either foot,” Krause said, with Max Flowers and Sam Rayborn providing depth as Rayborn plays into shape. Long snapper is an open competition between veteran Dalton Rokey and freshman Austin Cornett; Krause praised Rokey’s accuracy and Cornett’s speed and physicality.In the return game, Gouldsby remains the focal point. “We coach special teams like offense and defense,” Krause said. “Field position and momentum, we want that advantage every week.”Dallas is in Year 6 as head coach and credits administrative support and community buy-in for the program’s stability. “Our families love Hutchinson,” he said. “Consistency with the staff makes everything run more efficiently and trickles down to the players.”Wallerstedt said an intact defensive staff accelerated the spring install. “Last year everyone was swimming,” he said. “This year, coaches and veterans taught it together. It’s been smooth.”Koehling echoed the fit. “Coach Dallas recruited me here,” he said. “We see the game the same way. It’s a good place to work, and a good place for players to grow.”No new uniforms for the Blue Dragons in 2025, but “same look, maybe new combos,” Dallas said. The program’s core remains unchanged: play fast, be clean, lean on depth and win the field-position battle.“Just another opportunity to showcase who we want to be,” Dallas said. “We’ll adjust to what we see and let our experience show up in the critical moments.”

🏈 Defending national champ Blue Dragons open season Saturday in New Mexico

SAO PAULO (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs tight end and three-time Super Bowl winner Travis Kelce made teammate Patrick Mahomes and reporters laugh on Thursday when asked what has changed in his life since announcing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-engaged-d585627eb98b69428ce206a2c8a9cb7d">his engagement to pop superstar Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;last week.

“I got one more ring for it,” Kelce said at a news conference in Sao Paulo ahead of Friday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. “I would say ever since I’ve been dating Taylor, life has been fun.”

“I love when the lights are bright,” Kelce added, without mentioning whether Swift is going to make an appearance at NeoQuimica Arena for the game.

Neither the NFL nor Corinthians, the soccer club that owns the stadium, confirmed the superstar will be in attendance. Several Brazilian media outlets have reported that local TV stations are preparing for that possibility.

Kelce said he is already used to having “a lot more eyes” on what he does because of his fiancee and said he now understands what it is to “live life on a high.”

Mahomes chimed in: “It is a dream, dude.”

Earlier, coach Andy Reid said the off-the-field attention hasn’t changed Kelce as player, and praised the veteran tight end’s efforts during the offseason.

Kelce and Swift were seen in public for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-engaged-d585627eb98b69428ce206a2c8a9cb7d">the first time since announcing their engagement</a>&nbsp;last week when they attended a college football game between Nebraska and Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium. The 35-year-old played for the Bearcats.

Kelce added that he was enthusiastic about playing an international game, despite the 12-hour flight to Sao Paulo. He, Mahomes and other Chiefs players said they felt the excitement of local fans when they arrived at the airport.

“We are trying to take this game worldwide,” he said. “We have a good following here. That matters too.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757002047517.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce walks on the field during a training session prior to a NFL football game against Los Angeles Chargers, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce walks on the field during a training session prior to a NFL football game against Los Angeles Chargers, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Llano)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAO PAULO (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs tight end and three-time Super Bowl winner Travis Kelce made teammate Patrick Mahomes and reporters laugh on Thursday when asked what has changed in his life since announcing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-engaged-d585627eb98b69428ce206a2c8a9cb7d">his engagement to pop superstar Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;last week.“I got one more ring for it,” Kelce said at a news conference in Sao Paulo ahead of Friday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers. “I would say ever since I’ve been dating Taylor, life has been fun.”“I love when the lights are bright,” Kelce added, without mentioning whether Swift is going to make an appearance at NeoQuimica Arena for the game.Neither the NFL nor Corinthians, the soccer club that owns the stadium, confirmed the superstar will be in attendance. Several Brazilian media outlets have reported that local TV stations are preparing for that possibility.Kelce said he is already used to having “a lot more eyes” on what he does because of his fiancee and said he now understands what it is to “live life on a high.”Mahomes chimed in: “It is a dream, dude.”Earlier, coach Andy Reid said the off-the-field attention hasn’t changed Kelce as player, and praised the veteran tight end’s efforts during the offseason.Kelce and Swift were seen in public for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-engaged-d585627eb98b69428ce206a2c8a9cb7d">the first time since announcing their engagement</a>&nbsp;last week when they attended a college football game between Nebraska and Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium. The 35-year-old played for the Bearcats.Kelce added that he was enthusiastic about playing an international game, despite the 12-hour flight to Sao Paulo. He, Mahomes and other Chiefs players said they felt the excitement of local fans when they arrived at the airport.“We are trying to take this game worldwide,” he said. “We have a good following here. That matters too.”

🏈 Travis Kelce on what’s changed since his engagement to Taylor Swift: ‘I got one more ring’

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719520416153.png" alt="EAGLE Media College Football Scoreboard" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media College Football Scoreboard</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>KJCCC</h2>Saturday, Sept. 6<ul>
 <li>RV Cisco College at RV Coffeyville, 1 p.m.
</li><li>No. 1 Hutchinson at New Mexico Military Institute, 1 p.m.
</li><li>No. 6 Garden City at No. 4 Navarro College, 7 p.m.
</li><li>Independence at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M, 7 p.m.
</li>
 </ul><h2>KCAC</h2>Saturday, Sept. 6<ul>
 <li>Saint Mary at Ottawa, 1 p.m.
</li><li>No. 12 Friends at Avila, 1 p.m.
</li><li>RV Kansas Wesleyan at Bethany, 6 p.m.
</li><li>No. 14 Southwestern at Tabor, 6 p.m.
</li><li>Sterling at Evangel, 6 p.m.
</li><li>McPherson at Bethel, 6 p.m.
</li>
 </ul><h2>MIAA</h2>Thursday, Sept. 4<ul>
 <li>Fort Hays State at No. 5 CSU Pueblo, 7 p.m.
</li>
 </ul>Saturday, Sept. 6<ul>
 <li>Northwest Missouri State at Washburn, 1 p.m.
</li><li>Missouri Southern at Southwest Baptist, 6 p.m.
</li><li>Emporia State at No. 10 Angelo State, 6 p.m.
</li><li>No. 13 Pittsburg State at No. 19 Central Oklahoma, 7 p.m.
</li><li>Chadron State at Nebraska–Kearney, 7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>

🏈 KJCCC, KCAC, MIAA schedule for Sept. 4-6

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In some respects, wide receiver Marquise Brown has been waiting for the Kansas City Chiefs to open the season against the Los Angeles Chargers on Friday night in Brazil for more than 13 months.

That’s how long ago he hurt his shoulder on the first play of his first preseason game with the Chiefs last year.

Sure, the fleet-footed pass catcher nicknamed “Hollywood” made it back for a couple of games late last season, and he was on the field for a playoff run that culminated in a lopsided Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia. But Brown is the first to admit that the recovery from shoulder surgery and lack of practice reps had a lot to do with his relatively minimal impact.

Nine catches for 91 yards in two regular-season games. Five for 50 yards in the postseason.

“Even before I got here, I didn’t finish the season in Arizona,” said Brown, whose 2023 season was cut short by heel injuries. “So I feel like this is one of the first seasons in a while that I’m able to start the season healthy.”

The Chiefs certainly need him on the field. They headed for Brazil on Wednesday without Rashee Rice, who will be serving the first game of a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy, and fourth-round draft pick Jalen Royals, who has been dealing with a knee injury. That leaves them with second-year pro Xavier Worthy, veteran JuJu Smith-Schuster and unheralded Nikko Remigio, Tyquan Thornton and Jason Brownlee on their wide receiver depth chart.

Brown may be the biggest X-factor in the group. At his best, he caught 91 passes for 1,008 yards and six touchdowns while on the field for 16 games in 2021 with Baltimore. At his worst, he’s spent so much time dealing with injuries that he has been rendered an afterthought; only twice in his six-year career has he played at least 16 games.

“Listen, he’s done everything. He looked good out there running around,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said this week. “He just needs to get in the game and play. As far as practice goes, he’s done everything.”

Brown didn’t play at all in the preseason, though. He missed a chunk of training camp with an ankle injury, and he only made it back in time for the exhibition finale against the Bears. But rather than risk another setback, Reid continued to hold him out of game action, which means he will step on the field for real Friday night for the first time since February.

“I think he’ll be OK. He’s a veteran guy,” Reid said. “If he’s younger, I’d be a little bit more worried about it. But he’s a veteran guy that kind of knows how to go about it, and I think he should be fine.”

Patrick Mahomes is comfortable with his wide receiver situation, too.

“I think we prepared a little bit in the offseason just for other guys to have to step up in certain roles,” he said. “(General manager Brett) Veach and them have brought in a lot of receiver depth, so that guys can kind of step up and take over in different spots. It won’t be just one guy. It’ll be multiple guys that will kind of step up and make plays.”

That depth is a luxury the way last season went. Kansas City not only lost Brown in the preseason but Rice to a knee injury early in the season. And while they are still without Rice — albeit for a different reason — they at least have Hollywood on the field.

Now, the Chiefs just have to keep him there.

Brown was sidelined in his rookie season in 2019 by an ankle injury. He sprained his knee the following season in practice. The next year, it was hamstring and thigh injuries that slowed him down. Then came the heel injury in Arizona. And ultimately, the SC joint separation to his shoulder last season in Jacksonville, which kept him out until January.

No wonder he feels as if Friday night’s season opener against the Chargers has been a long time coming.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756988713981.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Marquise "Hollywood" Brown (5) runs after a catch as cornerback Miles Battle (45) defends during NFL football training camp on July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Marquise "Hollywood" Brown (5) runs after a catch as cornerback Miles Battle (45) defends during NFL football training camp on July 27, 2024, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In some respects, wide receiver Marquise Brown has been waiting for the Kansas City Chiefs to open the season against the Los Angeles Chargers on Friday night in Brazil for more than 13 months.That’s how long ago he hurt his shoulder on the first play of his first preseason game with the Chiefs last year.Sure, the fleet-footed pass catcher nicknamed “Hollywood” made it back for a couple of games late last season, and he was on the field for a playoff run that culminated in a lopsided Super Bowl loss to Philadelphia. But Brown is the first to admit that the recovery from shoulder surgery and lack of practice reps had a lot to do with his relatively minimal impact.Nine catches for 91 yards in two regular-season games. Five for 50 yards in the postseason.“Even before I got here, I didn’t finish the season in Arizona,” said Brown, whose 2023 season was cut short by heel injuries. “So I feel like this is one of the first seasons in a while that I’m able to start the season healthy.”The Chiefs certainly need him on the field. They headed for Brazil on Wednesday without Rashee Rice, who will be serving the first game of a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy, and fourth-round draft pick Jalen Royals, who has been dealing with a knee injury. That leaves them with second-year pro Xavier Worthy, veteran JuJu Smith-Schuster and unheralded Nikko Remigio, Tyquan Thornton and Jason Brownlee on their wide receiver depth chart.Brown may be the biggest X-factor in the group. At his best, he caught 91 passes for 1,008 yards and six touchdowns while on the field for 16 games in 2021 with Baltimore. At his worst, he’s spent so much time dealing with injuries that he has been rendered an afterthought; only twice in his six-year career has he played at least 16 games.“Listen, he’s done everything. He looked good out there running around,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said this week. “He just needs to get in the game and play. As far as practice goes, he’s done everything.”Brown didn’t play at all in the preseason, though. He missed a chunk of training camp with an ankle injury, and he only made it back in time for the exhibition finale against the Bears. But rather than risk another setback, Reid continued to hold him out of game action, which means he will step on the field for real Friday night for the first time since February.“I think he’ll be OK. He’s a veteran guy,” Reid said. “If he’s younger, I’d be a little bit more worried about it. But he’s a veteran guy that kind of knows how to go about it, and I think he should be fine.”Patrick Mahomes is comfortable with his wide receiver situation, too.“I think we prepared a little bit in the offseason just for other guys to have to step up in certain roles,” he said. “(General manager Brett) Veach and them have brought in a lot of receiver depth, so that guys can kind of step up and take over in different spots. It won’t be just one guy. It’ll be multiple guys that will kind of step up and make plays.”That depth is a luxury the way last season went. Kansas City not only lost Brown in the preseason but Rice to a knee injury early in the season. And while they are still without Rice — albeit for a different reason — they at least have Hollywood on the field.Now, the Chiefs just have to keep him there.Brown was sidelined in his rookie season in 2019 by an ankle injury. He sprained his knee the following season in practice. The next year, it was hamstring and thigh injuries that slowed him down. Then came the heel injury in Arizona. And ultimately, the SC joint separation to his shoulder last season in Jacksonville, which kept him out until January.No wonder he feels as if Friday night’s season opener against the Chargers has been a long time coming.

🏈 Marquise Brown’s long-awaited return: Chiefs wide receiver set for season opener in Brazil

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — There is a little more meaning when Army plays certain schools in football.

It might not seem like it at first glance. One of the nation’s flagship military schools has only played the land-grant college twice in its history, the first matchup at West Point in 1966 and the second coming 21 years later at Kansas State.

Yet the Wildcats always have been closely tied to the Army. Their campus is a short drive from Fort Riley, which traces its roots to the early 1850s, when it was built to protect settlers along the Oregon and Santa Fe trails. Over the years, the base has served as the home to the famed Buffalo Soldiers, and it remains the home of the renowned 1st Infantry Division.

It is common for soldiers to take classes at Kansas State. And just as common for its alumni to serve in the military.

So when Army coach Jeff Monken was asked to ponder the Black Knights’ difficult road test against the Wildcats on Saturday night, the first silver lining that came to mind was this: “Maybe we’ll have a little bit of a hometown crowd in attendance, among the huge crowd that I know will be cheering for them.”

Still, Monken said, “It’s awesome to be traveling to a place where we know there’s going to be American soldiers close by, and in attendance, and there’s a pride that comes with the Army team coming to town. That means a lot to us.”

It means a lot to Kansas State, too. The school holds a “Fort Riley Day” each season, and naturally, officials chose the matchup with the Black Knights this year. So the men and women of the Big Red One — the nickname for the 1st Infantry — will be there Saturday night with vehicles and demonstrations, and pregame ceremonies include a flyover and skydiving team.

The 130th Field Artillery Brigade, provided by the Kansas Army National Guard and headquartered in Manhattan, also will be on hand. Their booming 75mm Pack howitzers will accompany the marching band’s halftime performance of the “1812 Overture.”

Pageantry aside, both schools have a lot to prove on the football field.

The Black Knights are coming off one of the best seasons in their storied history, when a 12-2 record included a perfect run through the American Athletic Conference and a victory in the Independence Bowl. But with several key players having departed, Army stumbled through last week’s opener, losing to FCS-level Tarleton State in double overtime.

The Wildcats, who went 9-4 last season, opened this campaign with a close loss to Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland. Then they came home for a get-right game against FCS-level North Dakota last weekend and needed a last-minute touchdown to avoid an upset.

“There are no excuses, and we’ve talked about that with the guys,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “It’s not a talent issue. We have good talent. It’s an execution and a little bit of a discipline issue, and those things are going to get corrected.”

They’d better get fixed in a hurry. One of the biggest challenges in facing Army is dealing with its triple-option attack, which few teams run in college football these days. Two of the most important things in stopping it: execution and discipline.

Klieman knows that as well as anyone. He has faced Monken before, albeit in a much different situation long ago. He was defensive coordinator at North Dakota State in 2012, when the Bison beat Monken’s Georgia Southern team in the FCS semifinals.

“Army will be a big task for us,” Klieman said. “They have a really good team and they’re really well coached. I’ve known Coach Monken an awful long time and have tons of respect.”

Both teams have a lot of respect for each other. Some of it has to do with football. Much of it has to do with the military.

“I assure you, all of our guys — our players — are excited about the opportunity to serve alongside all those men and women,” Monken said, “and to become one in the ranks, and fill leadership positions to guide and lead soldiers. So it means a lot to them to know they represent those men and women that’ll be there.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756992422971.jpeg" alt="Kansas State players run onto the field before an NCAA college football game against North Dakota, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State players run onto the field before an NCAA college football game against North Dakota, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Manhattan, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — There is a little more meaning when Army plays certain schools in football.Kansas State is one of them.It might not seem like it at first glance. One of the nation’s flagship military schools has only played the land-grant college twice in its history, the first matchup at West Point in 1966 and the second coming 21 years later at Kansas State.Yet the Wildcats always have been closely tied to the Army. Their campus is a short drive from Fort Riley, which traces its roots to the early 1850s, when it was built to protect settlers along the Oregon and Santa Fe trails. Over the years, the base has served as the home to the famed Buffalo Soldiers, and it remains the home of the renowned 1st Infantry Division.It is common for soldiers to take classes at Kansas State. And just as common for its alumni to serve in the military.So when Army coach Jeff Monken was asked to ponder the Black Knights’ difficult road test against the Wildcats on Saturday night, the first silver lining that came to mind was this: “Maybe we’ll have a little bit of a hometown crowd in attendance, among the huge crowd that I know will be cheering for them.”Probably wishful thinking.Still, Monken said, “It’s awesome to be traveling to a place where we know there’s going to be American soldiers close by, and in attendance, and there’s a pride that comes with the Army team coming to town. That means a lot to us.”It means a lot to Kansas State, too. The school holds a “Fort Riley Day” each season, and naturally, officials chose the matchup with the Black Knights this year. So the men and women of the Big Red One — the nickname for the 1st Infantry — will be there Saturday night with vehicles and demonstrations, and pregame ceremonies include a flyover and skydiving team.The 130th Field Artillery Brigade, provided by the Kansas Army National Guard and headquartered in Manhattan, also will be on hand. Their booming 75mm Pack howitzers will accompany the marching band’s halftime performance of the “1812 Overture.”Pageantry aside, both schools have a lot to prove on the football field.The Black Knights are coming off one of the best seasons in their storied history, when a 12-2 record included a perfect run through the American Athletic Conference and a victory in the Independence Bowl. But with several key players having departed, Army stumbled through last week’s opener, losing to FCS-level Tarleton State in double overtime.The Wildcats, who went 9-4 last season, opened this campaign with a close loss to Iowa State in Dublin, Ireland. Then they came home for a get-right game against FCS-level North Dakota last weekend and needed a last-minute touchdown to avoid an upset.“There are no excuses, and we’ve talked about that with the guys,” Kansas State coach Chris Klieman said. “It’s not a talent issue. We have good talent. It’s an execution and a little bit of a discipline issue, and those things are going to get corrected.”They’d better get fixed in a hurry. One of the biggest challenges in facing Army is dealing with its triple-option attack, which few teams run in college football these days. Two of the most important things in stopping it: execution and discipline.Klieman knows that as well as anyone. He has faced Monken before, albeit in a much different situation long ago. He was defensive coordinator at North Dakota State in 2012, when the Bison beat Monken’s Georgia Southern team in the FCS semifinals.“Army will be a big task for us,” Klieman said. “They have a really good team and they’re really well coached. I’ve known Coach Monken an awful long time and have tons of respect.”Both teams have a lot of respect for each other. Some of it has to do with football. Much of it has to do with the military.“I assure you, all of our guys — our players — are excited about the opportunity to serve alongside all those men and women,” Monken said, “and to become one in the ranks, and fill leadership positions to guide and lead soldiers. So it means a lot to them to know they represent those men and women that’ll be there.”

🏈 Army and K-State face off in football Saturday night with military pride on both their minds

🎧⚾ Royals lose to Angels; ⚾ Wind Surge rained out; 🏈 NFL season kicks off tonight

Kpreps.com has released its high school football preseason rankings with several Reno County-area programs and nearby schools earning recognition ahead of the 2025 season.

Buhler, which reached the Class 4A semifinals last fall, begins the year ranked No. 4. The Crusaders return standout running back Ben Clouse, who missed the end of last season due to injury, and a veteran offensive line that helped power last year’s nine-win campaign. Bishop Miege is ranked No. 1 in 4A, followed by Kapaun Mt. Carmel and defending champion Andover Central, with Wamego just behind Buhler at No. 5.

In Eight-Man Division I, Little River opens at No. 5 after finishing 8-3 a year ago. The Redskins return junior playmaker Jaren Garrison, who rushed for 889 yards and 12 touchdowns, and four of their top five tacklers. Wichita County tops the 8M-I poll, with South Central, Central Plains and Ell-Saline also ranked.

Several other local teams are expected to be contenders even if they didn’t crack the preseason top five. McPherson, which returns a strong nucleus under coach Jace Pavlovich, opens the year just outside the Class 5A poll and faces third-ranked Great Bend in its opener. Inman, a state semifinalist in 2023, received votes in Class 1A. Hutchinson, Sterling and Pretty Prairie were also among area programs recognized in preseason discussions.

Elsewhere, Derby holds the top ranking in Class 6A, while two-time defending champion St. Thomas Aquinas is No. 1 in 5A. Andale, winners of five of the last six state titles, tops Class 3A, with Southeast of Saline, Conway Springs, Axtell and Weskan ranked No. 1 in Classes 2A, 1A, Eight-Man II and Six-Man, respectively.

Kansas Preseason Football Rankings (Kpreps.com)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693413418452.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kpreps.com has released its high school football preseason rankings with several Reno County-area programs and nearby schools earning recognition ahead of the 2025 season.Buhler, which reached the Class 4A semifinals last fall, begins the year ranked No. 4. The Crusaders return standout running back Ben Clouse, who missed the end of last season due to injury, and a veteran offensive line that helped power last year’s nine-win campaign. Bishop Miege is ranked No. 1 in 4A, followed by Kapaun Mt. Carmel and defending champion Andover Central, with Wamego just behind Buhler at No. 5.In Eight-Man Division I, Little River opens at No. 5 after finishing 8-3 a year ago. The Redskins return junior playmaker Jaren Garrison, who rushed for 889 yards and 12 touchdowns, and four of their top five tacklers. Wichita County tops the 8M-I poll, with South Central, Central Plains and Ell-Saline also ranked.Several other local teams are expected to be contenders even if they didn’t crack the preseason top five. McPherson, which returns a strong nucleus under coach Jace Pavlovich, opens the year just outside the Class 5A poll and faces third-ranked Great Bend in its opener. Inman, a state semifinalist in 2023, received votes in Class 1A. Hutchinson, Sterling and Pretty Prairie were also among area programs recognized in preseason discussions.Elsewhere, Derby holds the top ranking in Class 6A, while two-time defending champion St. Thomas Aquinas is No. 1 in 5A. Andale, winners of five of the last six state titles, tops Class 3A, with Southeast of Saline, Conway Springs, Axtell and Weskan ranked No. 1 in Classes 2A, 1A, Eight-Man II and Six-Man, respectively.Kansas Preseason Football Rankings (Kpreps.com)Class 6A<ol>
 <li>Derby
</li><li>Gardner-Edgerton
</li><li>Manhattan
</li><li>Wichita Northwest
</li><li>Blue Valley Northwest
</li>
 </ol>Class 5A<ol>
 <li>St. Thomas Aquinas
</li><li>Mill Valley
</li><li>Great Bend
</li><li>Hays
</li><li>St. James Academy
</li>
 </ol>Class 4A<ol>
 <li>Bishop Miege
</li><li>Kapaun Mt. Carmel
</li><li>Andover Central
</li><li>Buhler
</li><li>Wamego
</li>
 </ol>Class 3A<ol>
 <li>Andale
</li><li>Topeka Hayden
</li><li>Cheney
</li><li>Wellsville
</li><li>Wichita Collegiate
</li>
 </ol>Class 2A<ol>
 <li>Southeast of Saline
</li><li>Nemaha Central
</li><li>Osage City
</li><li>Beloit
</li><li>Garden Plain
</li>
 </ol>Class 1A<ol>
 <li>Conway Springs
</li><li>Jackson Heights
</li><li>Centralia
</li><li>Rossville
</li><li>Plainville
</li>
 </ol>Eight-Man I<ol>
 <li>Leoti-Wichita County
</li><li>South Central
</li><li>Central Plains
</li><li>Ell-Saline
</li><li>Little River
</li>
 </ol>Eight-Man II<ol>
 <li>Axtell
</li><li>Victoria
</li><li>Hanover
</li><li>Frankfort
</li><li>Burlingame
</li>
 </ol>Six-Man<ol>
 <li>Weskan
</li><li>Cunningham
</li><li>Golden Plains
</li><li>South Barber
</li><li>Tescott
</li>
 </ol>

🏈 Kpreps releases preseason rankings; Buhler, Little River among top five

WICHITA, Kan. — The Wichita Wind Surge will have to wait another day to try to extend their seven-game winning streak after Wednesday’s game against the Tulsa Drillers was postponed because of weather.

The teams will make up the game with a doubleheader Thursday at Equity Bank Park, beginning at 2 p.m. The second game will follow shortly after the conclusion of the opener.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755178979113.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The Wichita Wind Surge will have to wait another day to try to extend their seven-game winning streak after Wednesday’s game against the Tulsa Drillers was postponed because of weather.The teams will make up the game with a doubleheader Thursday at Equity Bank Park, beginning at 2 p.m. The second game will follow shortly after the conclusion of the opener.

⚾ Wind Surge rained out Wednesday

Despite holding the No. 5 team in the nation more than 100 points under its season hitting percentage, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team was swept in its Jayhawk Conference and 2025 home opener.

The Blue Dragons lost 3-0 to the No. 5-ranked Barton Cougars, falling 25-18,27-25, 25-20 on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.

Hutchinson (4-4, 0-1 KJCCC) will have the weekend off and will next play against No. 6 Colby at 6 p.m. next Wednesday at the Sports Arena. Barton improved to 9-2 overall and 2-0 in the KJCCC.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/villanueva_alondra_w1k3">Alondra Villanueva</a>&nbsp;had a match-high 16 kills on 46 attacks to lead the Blue Dragons. She posted her third double-double of the season with 10 digs.

Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;finished with nine kills on 36 attacks.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/mcneil_jaylynn_8662">Jaylynn McNeill</a>&nbsp;was next with seven kills.

The Blue Dragons held Barton to .130 hitting, 102 points lower than its season .232 attack percentage. The Dragons had 42 kills to 35 for Barton.

Freshman setter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/garcia_alexandra_ev7s">Alexandra Garcia</a>&nbsp;had her third double-double with 25 assists and a season-high 17 digs. Freshman libero&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;finished with 17 digs and seven assists. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/vazquez_lauren_ysnb">Lauren Vazquez</a>&nbsp;had 12 digs.

The Dragons out-dug Barton 70-69, but the Cougars out blocked Hutchinson 7-0 and out-aced the Dragons 5-3.

Indigo Pruitt and Caroliny Cristiny had 10 kills each to lead Barton.

SET 1: Neither team had a strong offensive performance in the opening set. Barton hit .070 and Hutchinson hit .021. Barton jumped out to a 5-0 lead, but stayed close trailing 10-6 after a Villanueva kill. Back-to-back Barton attack errors pulled the Dragons within 12-9. Barton answered with a 4-0 run, which was snapped by a Villanueva kill and Hutchinson trailed 16-10. Villanueva had five kills in the set to lead all hitters, but Barton pulled away for a 25-18 set victory.

SET 2: Tied at 9-all, kills by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/galliher_mattie_fggb">Mattie Galliher</a>&nbsp;and Proctor was part of a 4-1 Dragon surge for a 13-10 lead. A Villanueva kill gave Hutchinson its largest lead of the match at seven as the Blue Dragons led 20-13 after a Villanueva kill. The Dragons eventually had a 24-20 lead after a Villanueva kill. Barton fought off five Blue Dragon set points and finished off the comeback with a stuff block for a 27-25 win. The Dragons hit .154 in the set to Barton's .133. There were nine ties and seven lead changes in the second set.

SET 3: After four early ties, Barton opened a 12-9 lead. The Dragons rallied to tie the set at 12. Barton immediately regained three-point leads at 16-13 and 17-14. A McNeill kill pulled within 18-16 and a Proctor kill cut the Barton lead to 20-18. Barton closed the set on a 5-2 run to complete the week. Barton hit .186, but sided out at an 80.0 percent clip. The Dragons hit .087.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756992057963.jpeg" alt="Alondra Villanueva swings for one of her match-high 16 kills in the Blue Dragon volleyball team's 3-0 loss to No. 5 Barton on Wednesday at the Sports Arena. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)" />
 <figcaption>Alondra Villanueva swings for one of her match-high 16 kills in the Blue Dragon volleyball team's 3-0 loss to No. 5 Barton on Wednesday at the Sports Arena. (Andrew Carpenter/Digital Fox Photography)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationDespite holding the No. 5 team in the nation more than 100 points under its season hitting percentage, the Hutchinson Community College volleyball team was swept in its Jayhawk Conference and 2025 home opener.The Blue Dragons lost 3-0 to the No. 5-ranked Barton Cougars, falling 25-18,27-25, 25-20 on Wednesday at the Sports Arena.Hutchinson (4-4, 0-1 KJCCC) will have the weekend off and will next play against No. 6 Colby at 6 p.m. next Wednesday at the Sports Arena. Barton improved to 9-2 overall and 2-0 in the KJCCC.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/villanueva_alondra_w1k3">Alondra Villanueva</a>&nbsp;had a match-high 16 kills on 46 attacks to lead the Blue Dragons. She posted her third double-double of the season with 10 digs.Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/proctor_atlyn_jzx3">Atlyn Proctor</a>&nbsp;finished with nine kills on 36 attacks.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/mcneil_jaylynn_8662">Jaylynn McNeill</a>&nbsp;was next with seven kills.The Blue Dragons held Barton to .130 hitting, 102 points lower than its season .232 attack percentage. The Dragons had 42 kills to 35 for Barton.Freshman setter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/garcia_alexandra_ev7s">Alexandra Garcia</a>&nbsp;had her third double-double with 25 assists and a season-high 17 digs. Freshman libero&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/oliveira_clara_34tl">Clara Oliveira</a>&nbsp;finished with 17 digs and seven assists. Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/vazquez_lauren_ysnb">Lauren Vazquez</a>&nbsp;had 12 digs.The Dragons out-dug Barton 70-69, but the Cougars out blocked Hutchinson 7-0 and out-aced the Dragons 5-3.Indigo Pruitt and Caroliny Cristiny had 10 kills each to lead Barton.SET 1: Neither team had a strong offensive performance in the opening set. Barton hit .070 and Hutchinson hit .021. Barton jumped out to a 5-0 lead, but stayed close trailing 10-6 after a Villanueva kill. Back-to-back Barton attack errors pulled the Dragons within 12-9. Barton answered with a 4-0 run, which was snapped by a Villanueva kill and Hutchinson trailed 16-10. Villanueva had five kills in the set to lead all hitters, but Barton pulled away for a 25-18 set victory.SET 2: Tied at 9-all, kills by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wvball/2025-26/bios/galliher_mattie_fggb">Mattie Galliher</a>&nbsp;and Proctor was part of a 4-1 Dragon surge for a 13-10 lead. A Villanueva kill gave Hutchinson its largest lead of the match at seven as the Blue Dragons led 20-13 after a Villanueva kill. The Dragons eventually had a 24-20 lead after a Villanueva kill. Barton fought off five Blue Dragon set points and finished off the comeback with a stuff block for a 27-25 win. The Dragons hit .154 in the set to Barton's .133. There were nine ties and seven lead changes in the second set.SET 3: After four early ties, Barton opened a 12-9 lead. The Dragons rallied to tie the set at 12. Barton immediately regained three-point leads at 16-13 and 17-14. A McNeill kill pulled within 18-16 and a Proctor kill cut the Barton lead to 20-18. Barton closed the set on a 5-2 run to complete the week. Barton hit .186, but sided out at an 80.0 percent clip. The Dragons hit .087.

🏐 HutchCC swept by No. 5 Barton

Blue Dragon women's runner Mildred Rono and men's runner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mxc/2025-26/bios/kogo_cornelius_a3hy">Cornelius Kogo</a>&nbsp;both won the season-opening Terry Masterson Twilight Classic and both were named the NJCAA National Runners of the Week on Wednesday.

Rono is the first Blue Dragon women's runner to earn national honors since Faith Jepchirchir was a pair of NJCAA weekly awards last year. Kogo is the first Blue Dragon men's runner since Teagan Flanagan on October 6, 2020 to be a national runner of the week

Rono, a freshman from Iten, Kenya, obliterated the Terry Masterson Twilight Classing record book in becoming the second-straight Blue Dragon to win the event, which was contested on Friday night at Fun Valley.

Rono smashed the Fun Valley course record with a three-mile time of 16:55.33, blitzing the old record by 39.12 seconds. She is the first runner in event history to break 17 minutes.

Rono's winning margin of 55.30 seconds is also a meet record.

Rono helped the No. 15-ranked Blue Dragon women' to a runner-up finish at the Masterson Twilight.

Kogo also won the season-opening Terry Masterson Twilight Classic on Friday night at Fun Valley. The sophomore from Eldoret, Kenya led the No. 4-ranked Blue Dragon men to a 1-2-3-4 finish as Hutchinson captured the team title for the second time in meet history.

Kogo crossed the finish line with a winning time of 20:04.10, the 13th-fastest time in Masterson Twilight history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756991997293.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationBlue Dragon women's runner Mildred Rono and men's runner&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mxc/2025-26/bios/kogo_cornelius_a3hy">Cornelius Kogo</a>&nbsp;both won the season-opening Terry Masterson Twilight Classic and both were named the NJCAA National Runners of the Week on Wednesday.Rono is the first Blue Dragon women's runner to earn national honors since Faith Jepchirchir was a pair of NJCAA weekly awards last year. Kogo is the first Blue Dragon men's runner since Teagan Flanagan on October 6, 2020 to be a national runner of the weekRono, a freshman from Iten, Kenya, obliterated the Terry Masterson Twilight Classing record book in becoming the second-straight Blue Dragon to win the event, which was contested on Friday night at Fun Valley.Rono smashed the Fun Valley course record with a three-mile time of 16:55.33, blitzing the old record by 39.12 seconds. She is the first runner in event history to break 17 minutes.Rono's winning margin of 55.30 seconds is also a meet record.Rono helped the No. 15-ranked Blue Dragon women' to a runner-up finish at the Masterson Twilight.Kogo also won the season-opening Terry Masterson Twilight Classic on Friday night at Fun Valley. The sophomore from Eldoret, Kenya led the No. 4-ranked Blue Dragon men to a 1-2-3-4 finish as Hutchinson captured the team title for the second time in meet history.Kogo crossed the finish line with a winning time of 20:04.10, the 13th-fastest time in Masterson Twilight history.

👟 Blue Dragons sweep NJCAA national honors

One day after being named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Goalkeeper of the Week, Hutchinson Community College freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Division I National Goalkeeper of the Week on Wednesday.

Carvell, a freshman from Billericay, England, became the first Blue Dragon goalkeeper to earn national weekly honors since Karsyn Slothower, who won the award on October 16, 2024.

Carvell had a tremendous opening week of her collegiate career, earning her first two career wins, posting her first career shutout and scoring her first win over a nationally ranked team to lead the No. 15-ranked Blue Dragons.

Carvell allowed only one goal with eight saves in wins over No. 12 Trinity Valley and Western Wyoming last week.

Against Trinity Valley, Carvell had three saves in four shots faced. Carvell had five saves in a shutout performance in a 3-0 win over Western Wyoming.

Carvell starts the season 2-0 with a 0.50 goals-against average and an .889 save percentage.

The now-No. 12-ranked Blue Dragons play host to Wichita United at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756991908430.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy HutchCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationOne day after being named the Jayhawk Conference Division I Goalkeeper of the Week, Hutchinson Community College freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2025-26/bios/carvell_evie_w1nf">Evie Carvell</a>&nbsp;was named the NJCAA Division I National Goalkeeper of the Week on Wednesday.Carvell, a freshman from Billericay, England, became the first Blue Dragon goalkeeper to earn national weekly honors since Karsyn Slothower, who won the award on October 16, 2024.Carvell had a tremendous opening week of her collegiate career, earning her first two career wins, posting her first career shutout and scoring her first win over a nationally ranked team to lead the No. 15-ranked Blue Dragons.Carvell allowed only one goal with eight saves in wins over No. 12 Trinity Valley and Western Wyoming last week.Against Trinity Valley, Carvell had three saves in four shots faced. Carvell had five saves in a shutout performance in a 3-0 win over Western Wyoming.Carvell starts the season 2-0 with a 0.50 goals-against average and an .889 save percentage.The now-No. 12-ranked Blue Dragons play host to Wichita United at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Salthawk Soccer Complex.

⚽ Carvell named NJCAA National Goalkeeper of the Week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Three Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference teams were recognized in the latest NAIA women’s volleyball coaches’ poll released Wednesday, highlighted by McPherson College’s climb into the top 10.

McPherson moved up two spots to No. 9 after an 8-1 start, including a six-match winning streak. The Bulldogs’ only loss has come against sixth-ranked Northwestern (Iowa).

Oklahoma Wesleyan jumped five spots to No. 8 following a 6-1 start. The Eagles are led by setter Sydney Collins, who tops the nation in assists per set at 11.67.

Bethel College joined the poll for the first time this season, earning a place in the “receiving votes” category after not being mentioned in the previous rankings.

The poll is conducted weekly by a panel of head coaches across the NAIA and will be updated again Sept. 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756955907187.png" alt="Photo Courtesy McPherson College Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy McPherson College Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Three Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference teams were recognized in the latest NAIA women’s volleyball coaches’ poll released Wednesday, highlighted by McPherson College’s climb into the top 10.McPherson moved up two spots to No. 9 after an 8-1 start, including a six-match winning streak. The Bulldogs’ only loss has come against sixth-ranked Northwestern (Iowa).Oklahoma Wesleyan jumped five spots to No. 8 following a 6-1 start. The Eagles are led by setter Sydney Collins, who tops the nation in assists per set at 11.67.Bethel College joined the poll for the first time this season, earning a place in the “receiving votes” category after not being mentioned in the previous rankings.The poll is conducted weekly by a panel of head coaches across the NAIA and will be updated again Sept. 17.

🏐 McPherson College cracks top 10 in NAIA poll

WICHITA, Kan. -- Head coach Brian Green and the Wichita State baseball program announced the fall exhibition schedule on Wednesday, with two games against NCAA tournament qualifiers and a five-game Black &amp; Yellow Fall World Series. 

The Shockers are scheduled to play the same two outside opponents as last fall but will flip the home and road locations. On Saturday, September 27, Wichita State plays host to Nebraska at Eck Stadium with a first pitch time of 12:00 pm CT. Then Wichita State heads to Dallas Baptist on Saturday, October 18 with a 1:00 pm CT first pitch at Horner Ballpark. The Shockers and Patriots have played each of the last two falls, in Dallas in 2023 and in Wichita last year. Wichita State and Nebraska were scheduled to play in Lincoln last fall, but the game was canceled due to forecasted inclement weather.

Nebraska finished last season 33-29 and claimed the Big Ten Tournament title on their way to the Chapel Hill Regional, where they went 1-2. Dallas Baptist is coming off a 41-18 season in 2024 that included a Conference USA regular season championship. The Patriots ended their season with a 1-2 showing at the Baton Rouge regional.

WSU concludes the fall with the annual Black &amp; Yellow Fall World Series, a five-game series taking place October 28-30 and November 1-2. First pitch times will be 6:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 2:00 pm and 1:00 pm.

The Shockers are coming off a 20-36 campaign in Brian Green's second season as head coach. Cape Cod League All-Star Brady Hamilton and NBC World Series championship MVP Jaden Gustafson highlight the returners, while an incoming 16-player junior college class and MLB draft pick Ethan Rogers supplement the roster.

Saturday, September 27 - Nebraska (12:00 pm) Saturday, October 18 - at Dallas Baptist (1:00 pm) Tuesday, October 28 - Fall World Series Game One (6:00 pm) Wednesday, October 29 - Fall World Series Game Two (6:00 pm) Thursday, October 30 - Fall World Series Game Three (6:00 pm) Saturday, November 1 - Fall World Series Game Four (2:00 pm) Sunday, November 2 - Fall World Series Game Five (1:00 pm)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752516376007.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State AthleticsWICHITA, Kan. -- Head coach Brian Green and the Wichita State baseball program announced the fall exhibition schedule on Wednesday, with two games against NCAA tournament qualifiers and a five-game Black &amp; Yellow Fall World Series. The Shockers are scheduled to play the same two outside opponents as last fall but will flip the home and road locations. On Saturday, September 27, Wichita State plays host to Nebraska at Eck Stadium with a first pitch time of 12:00 pm CT. Then Wichita State heads to Dallas Baptist on Saturday, October 18 with a 1:00 pm CT first pitch at Horner Ballpark. The Shockers and Patriots have played each of the last two falls, in Dallas in 2023 and in Wichita last year. Wichita State and Nebraska were scheduled to play in Lincoln last fall, but the game was canceled due to forecasted inclement weather.Nebraska finished last season 33-29 and claimed the Big Ten Tournament title on their way to the Chapel Hill Regional, where they went 1-2. Dallas Baptist is coming off a 41-18 season in 2024 that included a Conference USA regular season championship. The Patriots ended their season with a 1-2 showing at the Baton Rouge regional.WSU concludes the fall with the annual Black &amp; Yellow Fall World Series, a five-game series taking place October 28-30 and November 1-2. First pitch times will be 6:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 2:00 pm and 1:00 pm.The Shockers are coming off a 20-36 campaign in Brian Green's second season as head coach. Cape Cod League All-Star Brady Hamilton and NBC World Series championship MVP Jaden Gustafson highlight the returners, while an incoming 16-player junior college class and MLB draft pick Ethan Rogers supplement the roster.Fall ScheduleSaturday, September 27 - Nebraska (12:00 pm) Saturday, October 18 - at Dallas Baptist (1:00 pm) Tuesday, October 28 - Fall World Series Game One (6:00 pm) Wednesday, October 29 - Fall World Series Game Two (6:00 pm) Thursday, October 30 - Fall World Series Game Three (6:00 pm) Saturday, November 1 - Fall World Series Game Four (2:00 pm) Sunday, November 2 - Fall World Series Game Five (1:00 pm)

⚾ WSU releases fall schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ryan Bergert&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for August. The awards are determined by a local media vote.

Of Pasquantino’s 25 hits last month, 15 went for extra bases, including 5 doubles and 10 home runs, which tied for the 3rd most in the American League, behind only&nbsp;Junior Caminero&nbsp;(12) and&nbsp;Shea Langeliers&nbsp;(11). His 10 home runs marked the most in any single month of his career and tied for the 3rd most by any player in the month of August in Royals history, trailing&nbsp;Chili Davis’&nbsp;12 home runs in August 1997 and&nbsp;Salvador Perez’s&nbsp;12 homers in August 2021. Pasquantino homered in 5 consecutive games from Aug. 18-22—matching a club record—and he recorded an extra-base hit in 7 straight games from Aug. 18-24, a stretch in which he amassed 12 RBI. In 28 overall games last month, he tallied an American League-leading 29 RBI, which trailed only&nbsp;Kyle Schwarber&nbsp;(33) and&nbsp;Lourdes Gurriel Jr.&nbsp;(32) in the Majors. He had the 3rd-most RBI in August in Royals history, behind&nbsp;Mike Sweeney&nbsp;in 2000 (31) and&nbsp;George Brett&nbsp;in 1980 (30). Pasquantino was named American League Player of the Week for Aug. 18-24—his third career honor—after batting .379 (11-for-29) and leading the AL with 6 homers and 12 RBI, and ranking 2nd with a 1.069 slugging percentage and 1.506 OPS. This marks his fourth career monthly honor and first since June 2024.

Bergert, who was acquired by Kansas City at the Trade Deadline, was immediately slotted into the Royals starting rotation and led all starters (min. 2 GS) last month with a 2.54 ERA (8 ER in 28.1 IP). He’s held opponents to just 2 runs or fewer in each of his 1st 5 starts as a Royal, while working a .200/.257/.362 opponents’ slashline (21-for-105). He’s joined teammate&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;and Royals Hall of Famer&nbsp;Steve Busby&nbsp;as the only players to pitch at least 5.0 innings and allow 2 runs or fewer in each of their 1st 5 appearances with the Royals. Bergert finished August with his strongest outing of the season, as he recorded his 1st quality start with a career-high 6.0 innings of 1-run ball against the White Sox at Rate Field on Aug. 27, earning his 1st career win as a starter in the Royals 12-1 series-clinching victory. Bergert is the first pitcher to win the Royals monthly honor in his first month with the team since&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;won the award in three straight months to open the 2024 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752363715123.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ryan Bergert&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for August. The awards are determined by a local media vote.Of Pasquantino’s 25 hits last month, 15 went for extra bases, including 5 doubles and 10 home runs, which tied for the 3rd most in the American League, behind only&nbsp;Junior Caminero&nbsp;(12) and&nbsp;Shea Langeliers&nbsp;(11). His 10 home runs marked the most in any single month of his career and tied for the 3rd most by any player in the month of August in Royals history, trailing&nbsp;Chili Davis’&nbsp;12 home runs in August 1997 and&nbsp;Salvador Perez’s&nbsp;12 homers in August 2021. Pasquantino homered in 5 consecutive games from Aug. 18-22—matching a club record—and he recorded an extra-base hit in 7 straight games from Aug. 18-24, a stretch in which he amassed 12 RBI. In 28 overall games last month, he tallied an American League-leading 29 RBI, which trailed only&nbsp;Kyle Schwarber&nbsp;(33) and&nbsp;Lourdes Gurriel Jr.&nbsp;(32) in the Majors. He had the 3rd-most RBI in August in Royals history, behind&nbsp;Mike Sweeney&nbsp;in 2000 (31) and&nbsp;George Brett&nbsp;in 1980 (30). Pasquantino was named American League Player of the Week for Aug. 18-24—his third career honor—after batting .379 (11-for-29) and leading the AL with 6 homers and 12 RBI, and ranking 2nd with a 1.069 slugging percentage and 1.506 OPS. This marks his fourth career monthly honor and first since June 2024.Bergert, who was acquired by Kansas City at the Trade Deadline, was immediately slotted into the Royals starting rotation and led all starters (min. 2 GS) last month with a 2.54 ERA (8 ER in 28.1 IP). He’s held opponents to just 2 runs or fewer in each of his 1st 5 starts as a Royal, while working a .200/.257/.362 opponents’ slashline (21-for-105). He’s joined teammate&nbsp;Noah Cameron&nbsp;and Royals Hall of Famer&nbsp;Steve Busby&nbsp;as the only players to pitch at least 5.0 innings and allow 2 runs or fewer in each of their 1st 5 appearances with the Royals. Bergert finished August with his strongest outing of the season, as he recorded his 1st quality start with a career-high 6.0 innings of 1-run ball against the White Sox at Rate Field on Aug. 27, earning his 1st career win as a starter in the Royals 12-1 series-clinching victory. Bergert is the first pitcher to win the Royals monthly honor in his first month with the team since&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;won the award in three straight months to open the 2024 season.

⚾ Pasquantino, Bergert named Royals Player, Pitcher of the Month for August

🎧⚾Royals drop opener to Angels; ⚾ Wind Surge win 7th straight; 🏈🏐⚽👟 Blue Dragons dominate KJCCC weekly awards

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs will be starting a new left guard and tackle, the latter coming off a major knee injury, when they travel nearly 12 hours to play their season opener on foreign soil against one of the NFL’s best defenses.

If that sounds like a nightmare for Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, how would you describe last season?

The Chiefs pondered a half-dozen options back then in trying to protect his blind side, ultimately giving up on second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia and second-year pro Wanya Morris. The result was predictable. Mahomes was sacked 36 times, eight more than any other season in his eight-year NFL career. His sack rate was a career-worst 5.83% of drop-backs, and that translated into a net yards-per-attempt of fewer than 6 for the first time in his career.

The whole mess culminated at the Super Bowl, when the Philadelphia Eagles not only sacked Mahomes six times but hit him on 11 occasions in a 40-22 loss that never seemed as close as the final score might suggest.

“We knew we had to get better,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach acknowledged.

Whether they did will be revealed on Friday night in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where the Chiefs open the season against the Los Angeles Chargers. They will be starting first-round pick Josh Simmons at left tackle against a defense that features pass rushers Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, while Suamataia — now converted to guard — will be lining up next to him on the left side.

The duo solidified starting roles early in training camp along an offensive line that includes All-Pro center Creed Humphrey, right guard Trey Smith — who just signed a four-year, $94 million extension — and veteran right tackle Jawaan Taylor.

“I think every step of the way so far, they’ve done a great job of getting better and better, and kind of checking those boxes,” Mahomes said. “This will be a great test for them. This is a prolific D-line with Khalil Mack and really all throughout. They have great depth at edge, at D-tackles, and they were one of the best defenses in the league this past year.

“It’ll be another test for these guys,” Mahomes said, “and I’m excited for them to go out there and accept the challenge.”

Simmons has been a revelation in the preseason, perhaps even surpassing what the Chiefs expected of him when they selected him No. 32 overall in the April draft. The biggest reason he slid so far in the first round was that Simmons tore his patellar tendon last season at Ohio State, and many teams were uncertain when he would be ready to play.

Simmons wound up attending every optional workout, mandatory minicamp and training camp practice, and he excelled when he got an opportunity in preseason games. Never once did it look as if his knee was causing him any problems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756808480354.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes scrambles during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes scrambles during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs will be starting a new left guard and tackle, the latter coming off a major knee injury, when they travel nearly 12 hours to play their season opener on foreign soil against one of the NFL’s best defenses.If that sounds like a nightmare for Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, how would you describe last season?The Chiefs pondered a half-dozen options back then in trying to protect his blind side, ultimately giving up on second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia and second-year pro Wanya Morris. The result was predictable. Mahomes was sacked 36 times, eight more than any other season in his eight-year NFL career. His sack rate was a career-worst 5.83% of drop-backs, and that translated into a net yards-per-attempt of fewer than 6 for the first time in his career.The whole mess culminated at the Super Bowl, when the Philadelphia Eagles not only sacked Mahomes six times but hit him on 11 occasions in a 40-22 loss that never seemed as close as the final score might suggest.“We knew we had to get better,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach acknowledged.Whether they did will be revealed on Friday night in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where the Chiefs open the season against the Los Angeles Chargers. They will be starting first-round pick Josh Simmons at left tackle against a defense that features pass rushers Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, while Suamataia — now converted to guard — will be lining up next to him on the left side.The duo solidified starting roles early in training camp along an offensive line that includes All-Pro center Creed Humphrey, right guard Trey Smith — who just signed a four-year, $94 million extension — and veteran right tackle Jawaan Taylor.“I think every step of the way so far, they’ve done a great job of getting better and better, and kind of checking those boxes,” Mahomes said. “This will be a great test for them. This is a prolific D-line with Khalil Mack and really all throughout. They have great depth at edge, at D-tackles, and they were one of the best defenses in the league this past year.“It’ll be another test for these guys,” Mahomes said, “and I’m excited for them to go out there and accept the challenge.”What other choice do they have?Simmons has been a revelation in the preseason, perhaps even surpassing what the Chiefs expected of him when they selected him No. 32 overall in the April draft. The biggest reason he slid so far in the first round was that Simmons tore his patellar tendon last season at Ohio State, and many teams were uncertain when he would be ready to play.Simmons wound up attending every optional workout, mandatory minicamp and training camp practice, and he excelled when he got an opportunity in preseason games. Never once did it look as if his knee was causing him any problems.“I took preseason with a grain of salt,” Simmons said. “It’s kind of backups here, maybe a guy who doesn’t play this position here, so I just kind of took it with a grain of salt. How was my technique? Did I take the right footsteps? Etcetera.”He certainly made a believer of his most important critic: Andy Reid.The Chiefs coach is an offensive line coach at heart, so he takes particular interest in the big guys up front. And while Reid was predictably understated in his assessment, he admitted that Simmons has looked the part of a franchise left tackle.“I’ll probably be saying this every week through the season, but it’s his first year, so there are going to be certain things that he hasn’t seen before,” Reid said, “and he’s got to fight through that. But he’s a talented kid and he’s willing. He wants to do well and he’s worked very hard. He’s worked very hard to get himself into this position right here to be the starter.”