WICHITA, Kan. — Jaden Gustafson drove in five runs on three doubles as the Hutchinson Monarchs rolled past the Lonestar Kraken 21-4 on Saturday night to claim their second National Baseball Congress World Series championship in the past three seasons.

The Monarchs, guided by head coach Casey Lippoldt, capped their summer with a 33-8 record, piling up 17 hits and 11 walks in the title game at Equity Bank Park.

Gustafson delivered a two-run double in the first inning as Hutchinson grabbed an early 3-0 lead. He added another two-run double in a six-run third and capped his night with his third two-run double during a five-run fourth.

Jake Gutierrez and Tyson Vassart each drove in three runs for the Monarchs, while Drew Bugner joined Gustafson and Blake Bradford with three hits apiece.

Pryce Bender earned the win, allowing two runs over 5 1/3 innings before Daegan Vinduska, Kyle Holzer and Aiden Benson combined to finish it off. Bender had a perfect game going into the fifth frame, before allowing back-to-back singles.

Major Brignon drove in two runs for Lonestar, which was limited to five hits.

The title is Hutchinson’s second under Lippoldt, adding to their 2023 crown and cementing another dominant summer run.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — Jaden Gustafson drove in five runs on three doubles as the Hutchinson Monarchs rolled past the Lonestar Kraken 21-4 on Saturday night to claim their second National Baseball Congress World Series championship in the past three seasons.The Monarchs, guided by head coach Casey Lippoldt, capped their summer with a 33-8 record, piling up 17 hits and 11 walks in the title game at Equity Bank Park.Gustafson delivered a two-run double in the first inning as Hutchinson grabbed an early 3-0 lead. He added another two-run double in a six-run third and capped his night with his third two-run double during a five-run fourth.Jake Gutierrez and Tyson Vassart each drove in three runs for the Monarchs, while Drew Bugner joined Gustafson and Blake Bradford with three hits apiece.Pryce Bender earned the win, allowing two runs over 5 1/3 innings before Daegan Vinduska, Kyle Holzer and Aiden Benson combined to finish it off. Bender had a perfect game going into the fifth frame, before allowing back-to-back singles.Major Brignon drove in two runs for Lonestar, which was limited to five hits.The title is Hutchinson’s second under Lippoldt, adding to their 2023 crown and cementing another dominant summer run.

⚾ Monarchs claim second NBC World Series title with rout of Kraken

Kansas City Royals The Kansas City Royals announced that catcher Salvador Perez and left-handed pitcher Noah Cameron have both unanimously been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for July. The awards are determined by a local media vote.

 Perez slashed .337/.379/.719 (30-for-89) across 24 games last month and paced the club with 16 extra-base hits (7 doubles, 9 home runs). His .337 batting average ranked 10th in the American League and his 9 home runs were tied for the 3rd most in the league, trailing only Seattle’s Randy Arozarena and the Athletics Nick Kurtz (11 each). 

Additionally, his 1.098 OPS ranked 2nd in the league, trailing only Kurtz (1.433), and his 16 extra-base hits ranked 3rd, behind Kurtz (25) and Boston’s Jarren Duran (17). His 1.098 OPS was his 2nd-highest mark in any calendar month in his career (min. 50 PA), behind only his 1.197 OPS in September 2020. 

Perez recorded multiple hits in 10 of his 24 games and notched multiple extra-base hits five times, including a pair of multi-homer games on July 9 vs. Pittsburgh and July 21 vs. the Cubs at Wrigley Field. He drove in 21 runs last month—tied for the 3rd most in the American League—and his 156 career RBI in the month of July are the 4th most in Royals history, behind only George Brett (304), Amos Otis (174) and Hal McRae (160). 

He capped his dominant month with a walk-off single on Wednesday vs. the Braves, giving the Royals a 1-0 win in the 10th inning to mark his 10th career walk-off plate appearance and 9th career walk-off hit. Perez matches McRae and Willie Wilson for the 3rd-most walk-off plate appearances in franchise history, behind only Brett (15) and Otis (12). 

This marks his ninth career monthly honor, which are tied for the 4th most since the Royals instituted the award in 1995, trailing only Alex Gordon (13), Mike Sweeney (13) and Eric Hosmer (11).

 Cameron went a perfect 3-0 over 5 starts in July, with a sparkling 1.84 ERA (6 ER in 29.1 IP). That marked the 6th-lowest ERA ever by a Royal in the month of July (min. 5 GS), behind only José Lima in 2003 (1.44), Kevin Appier in 1992 (1.55), Rich Gale in 1978 (1.74), Larry Gura in 1980 (1.74) and Bruce Dal Canton in 1974 (1.82). 

Among the 85 Major League pitchers who made at least 5 starts last month, his 1.84 ERA was the 5th-best mark, behind only Nathan Eovaldi (0.59), Paul Skenes (0.67), Nick Pivetta (1.17) and Eury Perez (1.29). 

He struck out 33 batters over 29.1 innings (10.1 K/9, 28.4 K%), which were tied for the 5th-most strikeouts in the American League, trailing leader Logan Gilbert (38 K). 

The Royals went 4-1 in Cameron’s 5 starts last month, and he held opponents scoreless in 3 of his outings, including 4.2 innings on July 2 at Seattle, 6.2 innings on July 13 vs. the Mets and 5.0 innings on July 27 vs. Cleveland. 

He lowered his season ERA to 2.44 (22 ER in 81.0 IP), nearly a full run lower than the next-closest rookie (min. 10 GS), Cade Horton (3.42 ERA). 

This marks Cameron’s first career monthly honor, as he made his Majors debut for the Royals on April 30

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752363715123.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City Royals The Kansas City Royals announced that catcher Salvador Perez and left-handed pitcher Noah Cameron have both unanimously been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for July. The awards are determined by a local media vote. Perez slashed .337/.379/.719 (30-for-89) across 24 games last month and paced the club with 16 extra-base hits (7 doubles, 9 home runs). His .337 batting average ranked 10th in the American League and his 9 home runs were tied for the 3rd most in the league, trailing only Seattle’s Randy Arozarena and the Athletics Nick Kurtz (11 each). Additionally, his 1.098 OPS ranked 2nd in the league, trailing only Kurtz (1.433), and his 16 extra-base hits ranked 3rd, behind Kurtz (25) and Boston’s Jarren Duran (17). His 1.098 OPS was his 2nd-highest mark in any calendar month in his career (min. 50 PA), behind only his 1.197 OPS in September 2020. Perez recorded multiple hits in 10 of his 24 games and notched multiple extra-base hits five times, including a pair of multi-homer games on July 9 vs. Pittsburgh and July 21 vs. the Cubs at Wrigley Field. He drove in 21 runs last month—tied for the 3rd most in the American League—and his 156 career RBI in the month of July are the 4th most in Royals history, behind only George Brett (304), Amos Otis (174) and Hal McRae (160). He capped his dominant month with a walk-off single on Wednesday vs. the Braves, giving the Royals a 1-0 win in the 10th inning to mark his 10th career walk-off plate appearance and 9th career walk-off hit. Perez matches McRae and Willie Wilson for the 3rd-most walk-off plate appearances in franchise history, behind only Brett (15) and Otis (12). This marks his ninth career monthly honor, which are tied for the 4th most since the Royals instituted the award in 1995, trailing only Alex Gordon (13), Mike Sweeney (13) and Eric Hosmer (11).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754190433059.jpeg" alt="Graphic courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Graphic courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure> Cameron went a perfect 3-0 over 5 starts in July, with a sparkling 1.84 ERA (6 ER in 29.1 IP). That marked the 6th-lowest ERA ever by a Royal in the month of July (min. 5 GS), behind only José Lima in 2003 (1.44), Kevin Appier in 1992 (1.55), Rich Gale in 1978 (1.74), Larry Gura in 1980 (1.74) and Bruce Dal Canton in 1974 (1.82). Among the 85 Major League pitchers who made at least 5 starts last month, his 1.84 ERA was the 5th-best mark, behind only Nathan Eovaldi (0.59), Paul Skenes (0.67), Nick Pivetta (1.17) and Eury Perez (1.29). He struck out 33 batters over 29.1 innings (10.1 K/9, 28.4 K%), which were tied for the 5th-most strikeouts in the American League, trailing leader Logan Gilbert (38 K). The Royals went 4-1 in Cameron’s 5 starts last month, and he held opponents scoreless in 3 of his outings, including 4.2 innings on July 2 at Seattle, 6.2 innings on July 13 vs. the Mets and 5.0 innings on July 27 vs. Cleveland. He lowered his season ERA to 2.44 (22 ER in 81.0 IP), nearly a full run lower than the next-closest rookie (min. 10 GS), Cade Horton (3.42 ERA). This marks Cameron’s first career monthly honor, as he made his Majors debut for the Royals on April 30

⚾️ Royals name Perez, Cameron Player/Pitcher of the Month

TORONTO (AP) — Max Scherzer pitched one-run ball for six innings and earned his second win of the season, Bo Bichette added three hits and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Saturday.

Davis Schneider hit a two-run single for the AL East-leading Blue Jays, who came in having lost five of six.

Bichette hit an RBI single in the third inning and added base hits in the sixth and eighth. He leads the majors with 137 hits.

Scherzer (2-1) allowed one run and five hits, including a solo homer by Kansas City catcher Salvador Perez. The right-hander walked none and struck out five in picking up his first win since beating the Athletics on July 11.

Perez’s homer was his 20th. He has hit three homers off Scherzer, including his first in the majors in August 2011 against Detroit.

Brendon Little got two outs for Toronto, Seranthony Domínguez retired all four batters he faced and Jeff Hoffman finished for his 26th save in 30 chances.

Royals left-hander Noah Cameron (5-5) allowed four runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings, losing for the first time since June 27 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heineman was struck in the mask by a foul tip from Kansas City’s John Rave in the third, but stayed in the game and scored from second base on Schneider’s hit in the bottom half. Ali Sánchez replaced Heineman in the fourth. The Blue Jays said Heineman had a head contusion.

Schneider opened the scoring with a two-run single in the third and Bichette capped the three-run inning with a two-out hit.

Perez has nine 20-homer seasons with Kansas City, breaking George Brett’s franchise record.

Blue Jays RHP Chris Bassitt (11-5, 4.34 ERA) is scheduled to face Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-5, 3.03) in Sunday’s series finale.

TORONTO (AP) — Max Scherzer pitched one-run ball for six innings and earned his second win of the season, Bo Bichette added three hits and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Saturday.Davis Schneider hit a two-run single for the AL East-leading Blue Jays, who came in having lost five of six.Bichette hit an RBI single in the third inning and added base hits in the sixth and eighth. He leads the majors with 137 hits.Scherzer (2-1) allowed one run and five hits, including a solo homer by Kansas City catcher Salvador Perez. The right-hander walked none and struck out five in picking up his first win since beating the Athletics on July 11.Perez’s homer was his 20th. He has hit three homers off Scherzer, including his first in the majors in August 2011 against Detroit.Brendon Little got two outs for Toronto, Seranthony Domínguez retired all four batters he faced and Jeff Hoffman finished for his 26th save in 30 chances.Royals left-hander Noah Cameron (5-5) allowed four runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings, losing for the first time since June 27 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heineman was struck in the mask by a foul tip from Kansas City’s John Rave in the third, but stayed in the game and scored from second base on Schneider’s hit in the bottom half. Ali Sánchez replaced Heineman in the fourth. The Blue Jays said Heineman had a head contusion.<h2>Key moment</h2>Schneider opened the scoring with a two-run single in the third and Bichette capped the three-run inning with a two-out hit.<h2>Key stat</h2>Perez has nine 20-homer seasons with Kansas City, breaking George Brett’s franchise record.<h2>Up next</h2>Blue Jays RHP Chris Bassitt (11-5, 4.34 ERA) is scheduled to face Royals RHP Seth Lugo (8-5, 3.03) in Sunday’s series finale.

⚾ Scherzer works 6 innings, earns 2nd win as Blue Jays beat the Royals 

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-nfl-e5d5d94dbea9bfcbd555ce73e0ce67c4">Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice</a>&nbsp;has “completely changed” after causing a chain-reaction crash last year on a Dallas highway that left multiple people injured, cost him more than $1 million in a settlement to victims, and resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-kansas-city-chiefs-crash-jail-454eb8f9ee467628ee8258fe8ae5cc0c">a 30-day jail sentence</a>&nbsp;that he will have to fulfill at some point in the future.

Rice spoke Saturday for the first time in training camp, and the first time since the 25-year-old playmaker tore a ligament in his right knee in Week 4 — an injury that wound up requiring season-ending surgery.

“I’ve completely changed. You have to learn from things like that,” Rice said of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-dallas-lamborghini-d36bee33712ebb41c4b78f7c3b54b833">the March 2024 accident</a>, when prosecutors said he was driving nearly 120 mph on the North Central Expressway and made “multiple aggressive maneuvers” before striking the other vehicles.

“I've learned," Rice continued, "and taken advantage of being able to learn from something like that.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-charges-dallas-crash-kansas-city-chiefs-d71cfd66fabfc151111d67ea1bfa0f74">Rice pleaded</a>&nbsp;guilty in July to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors said, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail, along with paying victims’ out-of-pocket medical expenses totaling about $115,000.

He separately agreed to settle a civil case for $1,086,000, which included prejudgment interest and attorneys’ fees.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs are bracing for Rice to serve an NFL suspension, though the length and time remains uncertain. League spokesman Brian McCarthy said in a statement recently that the case "remains under review.”

“My legal team is handling all that,” Rice said. “All I can focus on is what I can control right now and that's me doing what I do.”

So far, the knee injury that robbed him of most of last season hasn't held him back.

After a standout rookie season, Rice caught 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns through his first three games last season. But in Week 4, after Patrick Mahomes had thrown an interception, the quarterback accidentally dived into Rice’s leg as they were trying to make the tackle, tearing the lateral collateral ligament in the wide receiver's knee.

Rice had surgery and was back for summer workouts, and he's been full-go throughout training camp.

“I feel 100%. I'm excited to be back out here with the guys,” Rice said. “Just kind of basically where I left off at. The only thing is get back on the field and continue to have fun doing what I do.”

The Chiefs had hoped that Rice would be a focal point of the offense last season in a wide receiver corps that included Marquise Brown and then-rookie Xavier Worthy. But that triumvirate never materialized, because “Hollywood” Brown was hurt on the first play of the preseason — he didn't return until the playoffs — and Rice ultimately joined him on injured reserve.

Now, the Chiefs have all three of them healthy, Worthy has a year of experience under him, and fourth-round draft pick Jalen Royals has turned some heads in training camp. Throw in veteran Juju Smith-Schuster and Tyquan Thornton, who appears to be taking advantage of a fresh start in Kansas City, and the Chiefs are confident in their depth at the position.

Especially if Rice must serve a suspension during the upcoming season.

“I'm locked in. This is what I do,” Rice said. “This is my job. This is what I love to do. So even when I'm not able to be with the team, I'm going to be working hard to get back with them as soon as possible.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754161921153.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice laughs with a teammate as he arrives at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP PhotoCharlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice laughs with a teammate as he arrives at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP PhotoCharlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-nfl-e5d5d94dbea9bfcbd555ce73e0ce67c4">Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice</a>&nbsp;has “completely changed” after causing a chain-reaction crash last year on a Dallas highway that left multiple people injured, cost him more than $1 million in a settlement to victims, and resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-kansas-city-chiefs-crash-jail-454eb8f9ee467628ee8258fe8ae5cc0c">a 30-day jail sentence</a>&nbsp;that he will have to fulfill at some point in the future.Rice spoke Saturday for the first time in training camp, and the first time since the 25-year-old playmaker tore a ligament in his right knee in Week 4 — an injury that wound up requiring season-ending surgery.“I’ve completely changed. You have to learn from things like that,” Rice said of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-dallas-lamborghini-d36bee33712ebb41c4b78f7c3b54b833">the March 2024 accident</a>, when prosecutors said he was driving nearly 120 mph on the North Central Expressway and made “multiple aggressive maneuvers” before striking the other vehicles.“I've learned," Rice continued, "and taken advantage of being able to learn from something like that.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-charges-dallas-crash-kansas-city-chiefs-d71cfd66fabfc151111d67ea1bfa0f74">Rice pleaded</a>&nbsp;guilty in July to two third-degree felony charges of collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury. As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors said, Rice was sentenced to five years of deferred probation and 30 days in jail, along with paying victims’ out-of-pocket medical expenses totaling about $115,000.He separately agreed to settle a civil case for $1,086,000, which included prejudgment interest and attorneys’ fees.Meanwhile, the Chiefs are bracing for Rice to serve an NFL suspension, though the length and time remains uncertain. League spokesman Brian McCarthy said in a statement recently that the case "remains under review.”“My legal team is handling all that,” Rice said. “All I can focus on is what I can control right now and that's me doing what I do.”So far, the knee injury that robbed him of most of last season hasn't held him back.After a standout rookie season, Rice caught 24 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns through his first three games last season. But in Week 4, after Patrick Mahomes had thrown an interception, the quarterback accidentally dived into Rice’s leg as they were trying to make the tackle, tearing the lateral collateral ligament in the wide receiver's knee.Rice had surgery and was back for summer workouts, and he's been full-go throughout training camp.“I feel 100%. I'm excited to be back out here with the guys,” Rice said. “Just kind of basically where I left off at. The only thing is get back on the field and continue to have fun doing what I do.”The Chiefs had hoped that Rice would be a focal point of the offense last season in a wide receiver corps that included Marquise Brown and then-rookie Xavier Worthy. But that triumvirate never materialized, because “Hollywood” Brown was hurt on the first play of the preseason — he didn't return until the playoffs — and Rice ultimately joined him on injured reserve.Now, the Chiefs have all three of them healthy, Worthy has a year of experience under him, and fourth-round draft pick Jalen Royals has turned some heads in training camp. Throw in veteran Juju Smith-Schuster and Tyquan Thornton, who appears to be taking advantage of a fresh start in Kansas City, and the Chiefs are confident in their depth at the position.Especially if Rice must serve a suspension during the upcoming season.“I'm locked in. This is what I do,” Rice said. “This is my job. This is what I love to do. So even when I'm not able to be with the team, I'm going to be working hard to get back with them as soon as possible.”

🏈 Chiefs' Rashee Rice says he has 'completely changed' after causing dangerous crash on Dallas highway

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

With nearly its entire offensive and defensive production returning from a playoff team, Inman enters the 2025 season poised to make noise in a deep Class 1A District 7.

“We are excited to get back at it,” said head coach Lance Sawyer, who enters his 10th season at Inman with a 54-41 record at the school. “We have high expectations this year and are looking forward to getting back to practice.”

The Teutons finished 4-5 in 2024 and reached the playoffs before falling to Plainville in the first round. But with nine starters returning on offense and 10 on defense, there’s plenty of reason for optimism.

“We return several starters on both sides of the ball, 93% of our rushing attack, 95% of our receiving yards, and 82% of our tackles,” Sawyer said. “Our backfield will be as fast as we have had in a long time.”

Senior Cooper Wiens, a three-year starter and state track medalist, headlines a physical front. He earned 1st Team Heart of America League honors on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 83 tackles and 26 tackles for loss from his defensive end spot.

Other key seniors include Dylan Larson (RG/MLB), Braeden Stutzman (C/DT), and vocal leader Gage Sisson (TE/DE), who contributed both in the trenches and as a receiving threat.

Junior quarterback Malachi Brunk, a three-year starter, returns to his original position after spending 2024 at running back. Last season, he rushed for 629 yards, caught 20 passes for 263 yards, and scored eight total touchdowns. He also made 55 tackles and forced two fumbles defensively.

“Malachi will return to quarterback as an explosive athlete who is able to run extremely well,” Sawyer said. “He will be a tremendous athlete on both sides of the ball.”

Joining him in the backfield is fellow junior Korbyn McClellan, who totaled over 450 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns and will now move to outside linebacker on defense. Sophomore Braxton Malloy and sophomore Bo O’Neill will add strength and quickness to the run game. O’Neill, a powerlifting medalist, will move to fullback after starting at linebacker and offensive line.

Sophomore Kru Harris also returns after earning All-League honorable mention at defensive back. He led the team in receptions with 33 catches for 290 yards, and added 27 tackles, two interceptions, and three fumble recoveries.

The Teutons believe their team speed will be their biggest strength. “Speed. We should be fast on both sides of the ball,” Sawyer said.

Still, red zone execution and solidifying the offensive line and secondary are key focuses during preseason work.

“Our offense could move the ball but we struggled to score,” Sawyer said. “Success in the red zone will be key. We need to open up our passing game and improve our blocking from our running backs.”

Inman will open its season Sept. 5 on the road against Trinity Catholic, followed by a key league matchup with Sterling in Week 3, and a pivotal district opener against Remington in Week 4.

“Trinity is the first game of the year, and it will be big,” Sawyer said. “Sterling could be one of the better teams in 1A, and Remington is our first district game, we need to get off to a good start if we want to get back to the playoffs.”

With momentum from a dedicated offseason and a veteran lineup, the Teutons believe they are built to take the next step.

“Our guys decided to dedicate themselves to the weight room,” Sawyer said. “Our growth has been outstanding and we are ready to see results again on the football field.”

Sept. 5 at Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic Sept. 12 vs. Wichita-Trinity Academy Sept. 19 at Sterling Sept. 26 vs. Remington Oct. 3 at Marion Oct. 10 vs. Sedgwick Oct. 17 vs. Bennington Oct. 24 at Moundridge

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744904301625.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Inman Teutons</h2>With nearly its entire offensive and defensive production returning from a playoff team, Inman enters the 2025 season poised to make noise in a deep Class 1A District 7.“We are excited to get back at it,” said head coach Lance Sawyer, who enters his 10th season at Inman with a 54-41 record at the school. “We have high expectations this year and are looking forward to getting back to practice.”The Teutons finished 4-5 in 2024 and reached the playoffs before falling to Plainville in the first round. But with nine starters returning on offense and 10 on defense, there’s plenty of reason for optimism.“We return several starters on both sides of the ball, 93% of our rushing attack, 95% of our receiving yards, and 82% of our tackles,” Sawyer said. “Our backfield will be as fast as we have had in a long time.”Senior Cooper Wiens, a three-year starter and state track medalist, headlines a physical front. He earned 1st Team Heart of America League honors on both sides of the ball, leading the team with 83 tackles and 26 tackles for loss from his defensive end spot.Other key seniors include Dylan Larson (RG/MLB), Braeden Stutzman (C/DT), and vocal leader Gage Sisson (TE/DE), who contributed both in the trenches and as a receiving threat.Junior quarterback Malachi Brunk, a three-year starter, returns to his original position after spending 2024 at running back. Last season, he rushed for 629 yards, caught 20 passes for 263 yards, and scored eight total touchdowns. He also made 55 tackles and forced two fumbles defensively.“Malachi will return to quarterback as an explosive athlete who is able to run extremely well,” Sawyer said. “He will be a tremendous athlete on both sides of the ball.”Joining him in the backfield is fellow junior Korbyn McClellan, who totaled over 450 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns and will now move to outside linebacker on defense. Sophomore Braxton Malloy and sophomore Bo O’Neill will add strength and quickness to the run game. O’Neill, a powerlifting medalist, will move to fullback after starting at linebacker and offensive line.Sophomore Kru Harris also returns after earning All-League honorable mention at defensive back. He led the team in receptions with 33 catches for 290 yards, and added 27 tackles, two interceptions, and three fumble recoveries.The Teutons believe their team speed will be their biggest strength. “Speed. We should be fast on both sides of the ball,” Sawyer said.Still, red zone execution and solidifying the offensive line and secondary are key focuses during preseason work.“Our offense could move the ball but we struggled to score,” Sawyer said. “Success in the red zone will be key. We need to open up our passing game and improve our blocking from our running backs.”Inman will open its season Sept. 5 on the road against Trinity Catholic, followed by a key league matchup with Sterling in Week 3, and a pivotal district opener against Remington in Week 4.“Trinity is the first game of the year, and it will be big,” Sawyer said. “Sterling could be one of the better teams in 1A, and Remington is our first district game, we need to get off to a good start if we want to get back to the playoffs.”With momentum from a dedicated offseason and a veteran lineup, the Teutons believe they are built to take the next step.“Our guys decided to dedicate themselves to the weight room,” Sawyer said. “Our growth has been outstanding and we are ready to see results again on the football field.”<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic Sept. 12 vs. Wichita-Trinity Academy Sept. 19 at Sterling Sept. 26 vs. Remington Oct. 3 at Marion Oct. 10 vs. Sedgwick Oct. 17 vs. Bennington Oct. 24 at Moundridge

🏈 High school football preview: Inman Teutons

WICHITA, Kan. — For the third consecutive summer, the Hutchinson Monarchs will play for an NBC World Series championship, aiming to claim their second title in that stretch. The championship game is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Equity Bank Park in downtown Wichita.

Hutchinson earned its spot in the final with a 3-2 win over the Seattle Cheney Studs on Friday, a matchup defined by pitching and timely hitting.

Seattle jumped ahead in the first inning when Jackson Copeland laced an RBI double. The Monarchs answered quickly in the third, seizing a 3-1 lead on Drew Bugner’s two-run single followed by an RBI double from Jaden Gustafson.

Starter Bradyn McClure carried Hutchinson on the mound, striking out nine while allowing just one run on five hits across 6 2/3 innings. Mitchell Johnson recorded the final three outs in order to secure the save.

Gustafson and Bugner powered the middle of the lineup with back-to-back run-producing hits, while JJ Spafford, Gustafson and Jake Gutierrez each collected two hits apiece.&nbsp;

Copeland led the Studs’ offense with two RBIs on a 2-for-4 night, and Seattle turned four double plays to keep the game tight, but the Monarchs’ third-inning rally proved to be the difference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — For the third consecutive summer, the Hutchinson Monarchs will play for an NBC World Series championship, aiming to claim their second title in that stretch. The championship game is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Equity Bank Park in downtown Wichita.Hutchinson earned its spot in the final with a 3-2 win over the Seattle Cheney Studs on Friday, a matchup defined by pitching and timely hitting.Seattle jumped ahead in the first inning when Jackson Copeland laced an RBI double. The Monarchs answered quickly in the third, seizing a 3-1 lead on Drew Bugner’s two-run single followed by an RBI double from Jaden Gustafson.Starter Bradyn McClure carried Hutchinson on the mound, striking out nine while allowing just one run on five hits across 6 2/3 innings. Mitchell Johnson recorded the final three outs in order to secure the save.Gustafson and Bugner powered the middle of the lineup with back-to-back run-producing hits, while JJ Spafford, Gustafson and Jake Gutierrez each collected two hits apiece.&nbsp;Copeland led the Studs’ offense with two RBIs on a 2-for-4 night, and Seattle turned four double plays to keep the game tight, but the Monarchs’ third-inning rally proved to be the difference.

⚾ Monarchs headed to third straight NBC World Series championship game

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746415843413.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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AMARILLO, Texas (August 1, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kala-i-rosario-693850">Kala&rsquo;i Rosario</a>&nbsp;hit his 14th home run of the season in a 3-1 defeat for the Wichita Wind Surge against the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN. Despite scoring the game&rsquo;s first run, the Wind Surge drop their fourth game in a row.
&nbsp;
On the sixth pitch of the ballgame, Rosario lifted a solo home run, his 14th of the year, out to left center to give Wichita an early 1-0 lead in the top of the first.
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Manuel Pena yanked a two-run single to right field to put Amarillo up in the bottom of the second inning.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/logan-whitaker-681315">Logan Whitaker</a>&nbsp;made his Double-A debut out of the bullpen following Wind Surge starter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/connor-prielipp-687570">Connor Prielipp</a>, and he put up a great effort to maintain the one-run game with two and one-third innings of scoreless baseball. The righthander gave up two hits and struck out a pair of hitters.
&nbsp;
Pena came through yet again this week on an RBI single to center for a 3-1 Sod Poodles lead in the home half of the sixth.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jake-rucker-696160">Jake Rucker</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jorel-ortega-687567">Jorel Ortega</a>&nbsp;would turn an inning-ending 4-3 double play to keep the game within two runs.
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Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jacob-wosinski-814291">Jacob Wosinski</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kade-bragg-688540">Kade Bragg</a>&nbsp;retiring six straight across the seventh and eighth innings, Wichita could not put a man past second base and fell 3-1 for their fourth consecutive loss.
&nbsp;
Prielipp took his fifth loss of the season after giving up two earned runs over two and two-thirds innings with four hits and two walks alongside two strikeouts.
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POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario is the new active team leader in home runs (14).</li>
<li>Logan Whitaker throws two and one-third scoreless innings in his Double-A debut.</li>
<li>Rubel Cespedes records his 18th multi-hit game of the season.</li>
<li>Connor Prielipp records a pickoff.</li>
<li>Wind Surge broadcaster Tim Grubbs made his MLB debut on the air with the Minnesota Twins Radio Network tonight in Cleveland.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Wichita continues the series with the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN on August 2 at 7:05 PM. The Wind Surge return to Equity Bank Park for a series with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals beginning August 5. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge drop fourth straight to Sod Poodles

TORONTO (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski homered in his first at-bat with Kansas City, Michael Wacha limited Toronto to a run in eight innings in his longest outing of the season and the Royals beat the Blue Jays 9-3 on Friday night.

Acquired from San Francisco just before the trade deadline Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-yastrzemski-homer-ef2d215867f26d38879e2dbad0c31f37">Yastrzemski had a two-run shot</a>&nbsp;off Kevin Gausman (7-8) in the second inning to make it 2-1.

Wacha (5-9) allowed three hits and stuck out five, helping the Royals improve to .500 for the first time since June 20. He gave up one run for the fourth consecutive start.

Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez and Adam Frazier also homered for Kansas City.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BlueJays/status/1951426313484447935">two-out homer in the first inning</a>&nbsp;to give Toronto a 1-0 lead. After Yastrzemski gave the Royals the lead in the second, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1951430489895739439">Witt's three-run homer</a>&nbsp;made it 5-1 in the third.

Kansas City added four runs in the ninth. Perez and Frazier homered and Maikel Garcia had a bases-loaded single.

Addison Barger hit a two-run homer for Toronto in the ninth.

Yastrzemski wasted no time getting his first big hit for Kansas City, hitting the two-run homer in the second inning.

The Royals scored five or more runs for the eighth time in 13 games since the All-Star break.

Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (5-4, 2.44 ERA) was set to start Saturday against Toronto RHP Max Scherzer (1-1, 4.89).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754102026243.png" alt="Image from Kansas City Royals video" />
 <figcaption>Image from Kansas City Royals video</figcaption>
 </figure>TORONTO (AP) — Mike Yastrzemski homered in his first at-bat with Kansas City, Michael Wacha limited Toronto to a run in eight innings in his longest outing of the season and the Royals beat the Blue Jays 9-3 on Friday night.Acquired from San Francisco just before the trade deadline Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-yastrzemski-homer-ef2d215867f26d38879e2dbad0c31f37">Yastrzemski had a two-run shot</a>&nbsp;off Kevin Gausman (7-8) in the second inning to make it 2-1.Wacha (5-9) allowed three hits and stuck out five, helping the Royals improve to .500 for the first time since June 20. He gave up one run for the fourth consecutive start.Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez and Adam Frazier also homered for Kansas City.Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BlueJays/status/1951426313484447935">two-out homer in the first inning</a>&nbsp;to give Toronto a 1-0 lead. After Yastrzemski gave the Royals the lead in the second, and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1951430489895739439">Witt's three-run homer</a>&nbsp;made it 5-1 in the third.Kansas City added four runs in the ninth. Perez and Frazier homered and Maikel Garcia had a bases-loaded single.Addison Barger hit a two-run homer for Toronto in the ninth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Yastrzemski wasted no time getting his first big hit for Kansas City, hitting the two-run homer in the second inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals scored five or more runs for the eighth time in 13 games since the All-Star break.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (5-4, 2.44 ERA) was set to start Saturday against Toronto RHP Max Scherzer (1-1, 4.89).

⚾ Mike Yastrzemski homers in his 1st at-bat as a Royal in victory over Blue Jays

🎥⚾ WATCH: Monarchs play Seattle Cheney Studs in NBCWS semifinal

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals found themselves in a strange and precarious position at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-trade-deadline-miller-bieber-7a7d771f58aad301d7e0953fc0eb919d">the trade deadline</a>: They were both buyers and sellers, interested in supplementing the club to win now while simultaneously continuing to build for the future.

In other words, they wanted to have it all.

By the time manager Matt Quatraro and the Royals boarded a plane late Thursday destined for a weekend series in Toronto, the roster looked a whole lot different from how it did just days ago. They had traded backup catcher Freddy Fermin and a few other assets that didn’t necessarily figure into their immediate- or long-range plans, and in return got an outfielder and three pitchers capable of starting — a haul of four players who can help their big league club immediately.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/padres-athletics-sears-miller-trade-75e8970c54a2f7fca386c99e340e2f5a">swap with the Padres</a>&nbsp;of Fermin for pitchers Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek fortified their rotation, which has been hit hard by injuries, as did the deal with Pittsburgh that sent minor leaguers Evan Sisk and Callan Moss for left-hander Bailey Falter.

Then, minutes before Thursday’s deadline, the Royals upgraded their outfielder by landing right fielder Matt Yastrzemski — who is particularly good against right-handed pitching — for low-minors pitching prospect Yunior Marte.

“What we’ve done,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said, “is going to allow us to work through the year with the pitchers we have in an efficient way, in a way that’s going to be healthy for all of them, and we’re just excited to get these guys.

“It’s 14 years of club control on the starting pitching side of things.”

That last bit is important: The pitchers the Royals landed will be theirs for a while.

They headed into Friday night’s series against the Blue Jays well out of the AL Central lead but only 3 1/2 games back of a wild-card spot, which they parlayed last season into a trip to the divisional round of the playoffs. They had followed up an abysmal month of June in which they went 8-18 by going 15-9 in July, clawing themselves back to within a game of .500.

So, the Royals believe they are still very much in the thick of the postseason hunt, and they needed the help to do it.

“We’re playing better right now,” Picollo acknowledged. “I like the way we’re starting to score some runs.”

Yet the Royals aren’t exactly in a position to go all-in, either, so those moves came with a certain level of judiciousness. They did not want to part with any of their prospects, because they foresee a window to win over the next several years, particularly with a young core headlined by All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. under their control through 2029 and even beyond.

“We’re still a fairly young team with a young core together, and trying to build that culture of winning is extremely important to us,” Picollo said. “I’m just really glad that we’re not in that position where we felt like we had to (sell).”

Instead, the Royals will turn their attention to the task of making up that ground in the wild-card race.

They begin with a tough three games against the Blue Jays, the surprising leaders of the AL East, before a set in Boston against a team currently holding down a wild-card spot. But then comes a tantalizing stretch of nine games — six in the friendly confines of Kauffman Stadium — against the Twins, White Sox and Nationals, all clubs with losing records.

Along the way, the Royals are hopeful that starters Cole Ragans and Michael Lorenzen can return from the injured list, further bolstering a staff that Picollo managed to make deeper and more talented at the trade deadline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743292281679.jpeg" alt="Cleveland Guardians' Brayan Rocchio, right, is caught stealing second by Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., left, during the second inning of a baseball game, Saturday, March 29, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)" />
 <figcaption>Cleveland Guardians' Brayan Rocchio, right, is caught stealing second by Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., left, during the second inning of a baseball game, Saturday, March 29, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals found themselves in a strange and precarious position at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-trade-deadline-miller-bieber-7a7d771f58aad301d7e0953fc0eb919d">the trade deadline</a>: They were both buyers and sellers, interested in supplementing the club to win now while simultaneously continuing to build for the future.In other words, they wanted to have it all.They largely succeeded, too.By the time manager Matt Quatraro and the Royals boarded a plane late Thursday destined for a weekend series in Toronto, the roster looked a whole lot different from how it did just days ago. They had traded backup catcher Freddy Fermin and a few other assets that didn’t necessarily figure into their immediate- or long-range plans, and in return got an outfielder and three pitchers capable of starting — a haul of four players who can help their big league club immediately.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/padres-athletics-sears-miller-trade-75e8970c54a2f7fca386c99e340e2f5a">swap with the Padres</a>&nbsp;of Fermin for pitchers Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek fortified their rotation, which has been hit hard by injuries, as did the deal with Pittsburgh that sent minor leaguers Evan Sisk and Callan Moss for left-hander Bailey Falter.Then, minutes before Thursday’s deadline, the Royals upgraded their outfielder by landing right fielder Matt Yastrzemski — who is particularly good against right-handed pitching — for low-minors pitching prospect Yunior Marte.“What we’ve done,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said, “is going to allow us to work through the year with the pitchers we have in an efficient way, in a way that’s going to be healthy for all of them, and we’re just excited to get these guys.“It’s 14 years of club control on the starting pitching side of things.”That last bit is important: The pitchers the Royals landed will be theirs for a while.They headed into Friday night’s series against the Blue Jays well out of the AL Central lead but only 3 1/2 games back of a wild-card spot, which they parlayed last season into a trip to the divisional round of the playoffs. They had followed up an abysmal month of June in which they went 8-18 by going 15-9 in July, clawing themselves back to within a game of .500.So, the Royals believe they are still very much in the thick of the postseason hunt, and they needed the help to do it.“We’re playing better right now,” Picollo acknowledged. “I like the way we’re starting to score some runs.”Yet the Royals aren’t exactly in a position to go all-in, either, so those moves came with a certain level of judiciousness. They did not want to part with any of their prospects, because they foresee a window to win over the next several years, particularly with a young core headlined by All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. under their control through 2029 and even beyond.“We’re still a fairly young team with a young core together, and trying to build that culture of winning is extremely important to us,” Picollo said. “I’m just really glad that we’re not in that position where we felt like we had to (sell).”Instead, the Royals will turn their attention to the task of making up that ground in the wild-card race.They begin with a tough three games against the Blue Jays, the surprising leaders of the AL East, before a set in Boston against a team currently holding down a wild-card spot. But then comes a tantalizing stretch of nine games — six in the friendly confines of Kauffman Stadium — against the Twins, White Sox and Nationals, all clubs with losing records.Along the way, the Royals are hopeful that starters Cole Ragans and Michael Lorenzen can return from the injured list, further bolstering a staff that Picollo managed to make deeper and more talented at the trade deadline.

⚾ Royals’ trade deadline moves aim to balance winning now and building for the future

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
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🎧⚾ Monarchs back in NBCWS semifinal; 🏀 Aftershocks in TBT finals; ⚾ Wind Surge drop DH

With a veteran offensive line, key returners on both sides of the ball, and meaningful varsity experience gained a season ago, Hutchinson High School enters the 2025 football season with sights set squarely on a deep postseason run.

“We lost some great football players from last year's class. You can't deny that fact or look past the truth,” said head coach Mike Vernon, now in his eighth season with the Salthawks. “However, I look at the playing time our younger guys got in mop-up time and how they handled themselves. I know they can play and I know my staff can coach.”

Hutchinson is coming off an 8-3 season in 2024 that ended with a 28-0 loss to Hays in the Class 5A state playoffs. Still, the Salthawks continued their recent trend of winning seasons, the program has posted at least seven wins in four of the last five years.

With 12 returning starters (seven on offense, five on defense) and 16 total lettermen back, Vernon believes this year’s team has a high ceiling.

“I believe we have a low floor, but I also believe we have an extremely high ceiling," Vernon said. "We have the capability of being a very tough out for any team on our schedule.”

That schedule includes a mix of AVCTL Division I and II powers, highlighted by the season opener at defending Class 4A state champion, Andover Central (12-1). The Jaguars are replacing almost their entire production from the championship team.

A major strength lies in the offensive line, where four of five starters return: Kylan Mendoza, Bailey Bishop, Taylor Reiman, and Karson Ettiene. Vernon called the unit “very exciting” and praised its growth through adversity in 2024.

“This group got thrown into the fire last year and had to perform,” Vernon said. “I’m very excited about the potential of this group.”

Senior quarterback Robert Hunter returns to the program after transferring from Wichita East and is expected to contribute heavily on both sides of the ball. 

“He is an athletic kid who we will utilize on offense as well as defense,” Vernon said. “We will lean on him heavily for offensive production. I believe he will have a big year.”

The backfield will feature seniors Jeremyah Gaitho-Karanu and Karmelo Green, both expected to carry the load in the run game.

On defense, senior middle linebacker Jackson Anderson leads the charge. Vernon believes the returning All-League standout is poised for a breakout season.

“Jackson Anderson will have a 1st Team All State season at middle linebacker,” Vernon said. “He is a skilled football player that continues to get bigger and faster. With our scheme he will make a name for himself.”

Other returning starters include defensive tackle GaVaughn Embers, defensive backs Tramel Walker, Camrynn Harris, and Brodie McCuan.

Still, there are concerns as the season approaches.

“We lost a lot of high-quality football players to graduation,” Vernon said. “Our young guys got a lot of playing time last year, but you never know how kids will react when bullets are flying.”

Depth and durability will be tested over the course of the season, Vernon added. “Our numbers aren’t as high as years past. Football is a numbers game and you need bodies. I worry about attrition and keeping our guys healthy.”

Despite the question marks, the goal remains unchanged.

“We want to play in the semifinal game,” Vernon said. “It is very attainable for this group.”

Vernon holds a 39-30 record at HHS and is 68-49 overall in head coaching stops at Inman, Nickerson, and Hutchinson.

Sept. 5 at Andover Central Sept. 12 at Valley Center Sept. 19 vs. Maize Sept. 26 vs. Salina South Oct. 3 at Derby Oct. 10 vs. Campus Oct. 17 at Newton Oct. 24 vs. Maize South

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753716390396.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostWith a veteran offensive line, key returners on both sides of the ball, and meaningful varsity experience gained a season ago, Hutchinson High School enters the 2025 football season with sights set squarely on a deep postseason run.“We lost some great football players from last year's class. You can't deny that fact or look past the truth,” said head coach Mike Vernon, now in his eighth season with the Salthawks. “However, I look at the playing time our younger guys got in mop-up time and how they handled themselves. I know they can play and I know my staff can coach.”Hutchinson is coming off an 8-3 season in 2024 that ended with a 28-0 loss to Hays in the Class 5A state playoffs. Still, the Salthawks continued their recent trend of winning seasons, the program has posted at least seven wins in four of the last five years.With 12 returning starters (seven on offense, five on defense) and 16 total lettermen back, Vernon believes this year’s team has a high ceiling.“I believe we have a low floor, but I also believe we have an extremely high ceiling," Vernon said. "We have the capability of being a very tough out for any team on our schedule.”That schedule includes a mix of AVCTL Division I and II powers, highlighted by the season opener at defending Class 4A state champion, Andover Central (12-1). The Jaguars are replacing almost their entire production from the championship team.A major strength lies in the offensive line, where four of five starters return: Kylan Mendoza, Bailey Bishop, Taylor Reiman, and Karson Ettiene. Vernon called the unit “very exciting” and praised its growth through adversity in 2024.“This group got thrown into the fire last year and had to perform,” Vernon said. “I’m very excited about the potential of this group.”Senior quarterback Robert Hunter returns to the program after transferring from Wichita East and is expected to contribute heavily on both sides of the ball. “He is an athletic kid who we will utilize on offense as well as defense,” Vernon said. “We will lean on him heavily for offensive production. I believe he will have a big year.”The backfield will feature seniors Jeremyah Gaitho-Karanu and Karmelo Green, both expected to carry the load in the run game.On defense, senior middle linebacker Jackson Anderson leads the charge. Vernon believes the returning All-League standout is poised for a breakout season.“Jackson Anderson will have a 1st Team All State season at middle linebacker,” Vernon said. “He is a skilled football player that continues to get bigger and faster. With our scheme he will make a name for himself.”Other returning starters include defensive tackle GaVaughn Embers, defensive backs Tramel Walker, Camrynn Harris, and Brodie McCuan.Still, there are concerns as the season approaches.“We lost a lot of high-quality football players to graduation,” Vernon said. “Our young guys got a lot of playing time last year, but you never know how kids will react when bullets are flying.”Depth and durability will be tested over the course of the season, Vernon added. “Our numbers aren’t as high as years past. Football is a numbers game and you need bodies. I worry about attrition and keeping our guys healthy.”Despite the question marks, the goal remains unchanged.“We want to play in the semifinal game,” Vernon said. “It is very attainable for this group.”Vernon holds a 39-30 record at HHS and is 68-49 overall in head coaching stops at Inman, Nickerson, and Hutchinson.<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Andover Central Sept. 12 at Valley Center Sept. 19 vs. Maize Sept. 26 vs. Salina South Oct. 3 at Derby Oct. 10 vs. Campus Oct. 17 at Newton Oct. 24 vs. Maize South

🏈 High school football preview: Hutchinson Salthawks

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753272422499.png" alt="AfterShocks" />
 <figcaption>AfterShocks</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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<h2>AfterShocks 66, We Are D3 54</h2>
<h3>&nbsp;</h3>
<h3>Leading scorers</h3>
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AfterShocks: James Woodard 12, Marcus Keene 10 We Are D3: Ty Nichols 14</div>
<div class="sidearm-story-template-text"> What's next: The AfterShocks can win The Basketball Tournament title and the $1 million winner-take-all prize at 3 p.m. Sunday (FOX) at Koch Arena. They face Eberlein Drive, which defeated Best Virginia 85-77 on Thursday. Eberlein Drive, one of two teams who played in the first TBT in 2014, finished as runner-up in 2018. The team is a collection of former pros from a variety of colleges. The AfterShocks make their first appearance in the championship game in their sixth TBT. A 2022 semifinal appearance was their previous best finish. 
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1951098958618448051&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F7%2F31%2Faftershocks-roll-into-championship-game-on-sunday.aspx&amp;sessionId=b214b19750ef11d9049cc707dc407f2141911c15&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1951098958618448051"></iframe></div>
 Recap: The semifinal got heated with technical fouls on Nichols and Marcus Azor of We Are D3 and one on Nike Sibande of the AfterShocks. The emotions &ndash; and frustrations &ndash; didn't bother the AfterShocks, who took charge with a 21-5 edge in the second quarter to build a 35-17 lead. Two former Shockers got the AfterShocks rolling in the second quarter after both teams shot poorly in the first quarter. McDuffie played a key role by scoring five points and recording two assists and a steal. Conner Frankamp also scored five points in the quarter and registered two steals and two assists. Woodard scored all 12 of his points in the second half, including five of the team's eight during the Elam Ending period. He made all five of his shots in the second half. Keene ended the game with a foul shot after Nichols earned a technical by shoving Keene. The AfterShocks forced 15 turnovers, eight in the second quarter. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
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🏀 Aftershocks cruise into TBT championship

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754054475786.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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AMARILLO, Texas (July 31, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kaelen-culpepper-701785">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;totaled five hits as the Wichita Wind Surge lost 7-2 and 3-2 in Games 1 and 2 of a doubleheader against the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN. The Wind Surge have lost the first three games of the series against the Sod Poodles in the Texas Panhandle this week.
Amarillo scored first in Game 1 on a 4-6-3 double play in the bottom of the first. Culpepper tied the game with a solo shot, his sixth with Wichita, to left field in the top of the third.
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Manuel Pena responded with a two-run blast to right to give the Sod Poodles a 3-1 lead in the home half of the third. Jose Fernandez and Christian Cerda went back-to-back with a respective three-run jack and a solo home run two frames later to give Amarillo to a six-run cushion.
Culpepper sent an RBI single to right field with two outs in the top of the seventh to make the score 7-2, but Sod Poodles reliever Dan Kubiuk struck out the next two hitters to wrap up Game 1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/c-j-culpepper-690217">C.J. Culpepper</a>, who started for the Wind Surge, earned the loss, his first decision of the season, after surrendering three earned runs on four hits with three walks and two strikeouts over three innings.
Continuing from his perfect 4-for-4 performance at the plate in Game 1, Culpepper pulled an RBI double to left in the top of the third of Game 2 to give Wichita a 1-0 advantage.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/john-klein-804619">John Klein</a>&nbsp;threw five scoreless innings, giving up just four hits while striking out four batters. The righthander retired the last eight hitters he faced.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/walker-jenkins-805805?affiliateId=mlbcom-milb">Walker Jenkins</a>&nbsp;lined a solo home run, his fourth of the year with the Wind Surge, over the wall down the right field line in the top of the sixth to push Wichita up 2-0.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1951099528054022631&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwichita-swept-in-doubleheader-by-amarillo&amp;sessionId=2ec7bfc19d240086d3c3ec92bc36a563616fb002&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1951099528054022631"></iframe></div>
After a pair of singles, Pena walked it off for the Sod Poodles with an opposite-field three-run home run to left field with two outs in the bottom of the seventh for a 3-2 Amarillo final.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/hunter-hoopes-804592">Hunter Hoopes</a>&nbsp;takes the loss in his Double-A debut, giving up three hits and three earned runs over an inning and two-thirds with a strikeout.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Kaelen Culpepper finishes the doubleheader a combined 5-for-7 with a home run, a double, and three RBIs.</li>
<li>Walker Jenkins has two home runs so far this week.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge are swept in a doubleheader for the first time this season.</li>
<li>Two of the three losses for Wichita against Amarillo have come in walk-off fashion.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge in Game 2 were walked off for the 11th time in 2025.</li>
</ul>
Wichita continues the series with the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN on August 1 at 7:05 PM. The Wind Surge return to Equity Bank Park for a series with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals beginning August 5. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge swept by Sod Poodles in doubleheader

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs walked off the Alaska Goldpanners, 2-1, on Thursday evening, scoring the winning run in the bottom of the ninth at Eck Stadium on the Wichita State University campus. The win sends the Monarchs to the NBC World Series semifinal for the third consecutive season.

The Monarchs will play the Seattle Cheney Studs in Friday's semifinal at 6 p.m.

With the game tied at 1, Drew Bugner delivered the decisive hit, driving in the winning run with an single that one hopped the fence in the left field corner.

Both pitching staffs were sharp. Monarchs hurlers combined for 10 strikeouts, while the Goldpanners’ arms fanned seven. Alaska struck first in the fourth inning on a run-scoring single by Christian Olea. Hutchinson evened the score in the sixth when a wild pitch brought home the tying run.

Monarchs starter Ethan Giesbrecht worked five innings, allowing one run on three hits with four strikeouts and three walks. Relievers Mitchell Johnson, Brady Pacha, Kyle Holzer and Aiden Benson each tossed a scoreless frame. Alaska’s Lukas Sarantos went 5 2/3 innings, yielding one run on three hits with four strikeouts and three walks.

Jake Gutierrez paced the Monarchs’ offense with three hits in five at-bats. Bugner drove in the winning run with his lone hit of the night.

Olea, Garrett Davidson, Matthew Pinal and Alex Garcia each had one hit for Alaska. Olea finished 1-for-4 with the Goldpanners’ only RBI.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs walked off the Alaska Goldpanners, 2-1, on Thursday evening, scoring the winning run in the bottom of the ninth at Eck Stadium on the Wichita State University campus. The win sends the Monarchs to the NBC World Series semifinal for the third consecutive season.The Monarchs will play the Seattle Cheney Studs in Friday's semifinal at 6 p.m.With the game tied at 1, Drew Bugner delivered the decisive hit, driving in the winning run with an single that one hopped the fence in the left field corner.Both pitching staffs were sharp. Monarchs hurlers combined for 10 strikeouts, while the Goldpanners’ arms fanned seven. Alaska struck first in the fourth inning on a run-scoring single by Christian Olea. Hutchinson evened the score in the sixth when a wild pitch brought home the tying run.Monarchs starter Ethan Giesbrecht worked five innings, allowing one run on three hits with four strikeouts and three walks. Relievers Mitchell Johnson, Brady Pacha, Kyle Holzer and Aiden Benson each tossed a scoreless frame. Alaska’s Lukas Sarantos went 5 2/3 innings, yielding one run on three hits with four strikeouts and three walks.Jake Gutierrez paced the Monarchs’ offense with three hits in five at-bats. Bugner drove in the winning run with his lone hit of the night.Olea, Garrett Davidson, Matthew Pinal and Alex Garcia each had one hit for Alaska. Olea finished 1-for-4 with the Goldpanners’ only RBI.

⚾ Bugner leads Monarchs to NBC World Series semifinal with walk-off hit

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski&nbsp;from the San Francisco Giants for right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Yunior Marte.

Yastrzemski, 34, played in 97 games for the Giants this year, slashing .231/.330/.355 (74-for-321, .685 OPS) with 14 doubles, 1 triple, 8 home runs, 38 runs scored and 47 walks, and made 85 starts in right field.

He played in parts of seven seasons with San Francisco after making his Major League debut with them in 2019, amassing 114 home runs, 346 RBI and 304 walks across 791 games. He was named a&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award finalist as a right fielder in 2024 and 2021 and was named to the All-MLB Second Team in 2020.He was selected in three Major League Drafts and signed with Baltimore in 2013 after being picked in the 14th round. He was acquired by the Giants from Baltimore on March 23, 2019 for minor league right hander&nbsp;Tyler Herb.

He is the grandson of Major League Hall of Famer&nbsp;Carl Yastrzemski.

Marte, 21, made 19 starts with Single-A Columbia this season, striking out 79 batters in 82.0 innings with a 2.74 ERA (25 ER). He signed with Kansas City as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic in Jan. 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752363715123.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired outfielder&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski&nbsp;from the San Francisco Giants for right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Yunior Marte.Yastrzemski, 34, played in 97 games for the Giants this year, slashing .231/.330/.355 (74-for-321, .685 OPS) with 14 doubles, 1 triple, 8 home runs, 38 runs scored and 47 walks, and made 85 starts in right field.He played in parts of seven seasons with San Francisco after making his Major League debut with them in 2019, amassing 114 home runs, 346 RBI and 304 walks across 791 games. He was named a&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award finalist as a right fielder in 2024 and 2021 and was named to the All-MLB Second Team in 2020.He was selected in three Major League Drafts and signed with Baltimore in 2013 after being picked in the 14th round. He was acquired by the Giants from Baltimore on March 23, 2019 for minor league right hander&nbsp;Tyler Herb.He is the grandson of Major League Hall of Famer&nbsp;Carl Yastrzemski.Marte, 21, made 19 starts with Single-A Columbia this season, striking out 79 batters in 82.0 innings with a 2.74 ERA (25 ER). He signed with Kansas City as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic in Jan. 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Royals acquire Yastrzemski from Giants

🎥⚾ WATCH: Monarchs play Goldpanners in NBC World Series quarterfinal

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Bailey Falter&nbsp;from the Pittsburgh Pirates for left hander&nbsp;Evan Sisk&nbsp;and infielder&nbsp;Callan Moss.

Falter, 28, posted a 3.73 (47 ER in 113.1 IP) with 70 strikeouts and a 1.18 WHIP across 22 starts for the Pirates this season. He enjoyed a career-long 5-game winning streak across 9 starts from May 9-June 22, during which he posted a 2.44 ERA (13 ER in 48.0 IP), a .213 opponents’ average (36-for-169) and the Pirates went 7-2. In 110 career appearances (81 starts), he has gone 25-28 with a 4.40 ERA (222 ER in 454.0) and 335 strikeouts (17.8 K%).

This is Falter’s fifth Major League season and was his third with the Pirates after being acquired by them from Philadelphia on Aug. 1, 2023 for infielder&nbsp;Rodolfo Castro. He was originally selected by the Phillies in the 5th round of the 2015 Draft out of Chino Hills High School (Calif.).

Sisk, 28, made his Major League debut on April 15 at Yankee Stadium and allowed 1 run over 5.1 innings (5 games) this season. He was&nbsp;acquired from Minnesota with right hander&nbsp;Steven Cruz&nbsp;for outfielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;on Jan. 23, 2023.

Moss, 21, appeared in 92 games for High-A Quad Cities this season and slashed .270/.372/.418 (89-for-330) after he was signed as a minor league free agent on Aug. 6, 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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 today that they have acquired left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Bailey Falter&nbsp;from the Pittsburgh Pirates for left hander&nbsp;Evan Sisk&nbsp;and infielder&nbsp;Callan Moss.Falter, 28, posted a 3.73 (47 ER in 113.1 IP) with 70 strikeouts and a 1.18 WHIP across 22 starts for the Pirates this season. He enjoyed a career-long 5-game winning streak across 9 starts from May 9-June 22, during which he posted a 2.44 ERA (13 ER in 48.0 IP), a .213 opponents’ average (36-for-169) and the Pirates went 7-2. In 110 career appearances (81 starts), he has gone 25-28 with a 4.40 ERA (222 ER in 454.0) and 335 strikeouts (17.8 K%).This is Falter’s fifth Major League season and was his third with the Pirates after being acquired by them from Philadelphia on Aug. 1, 2023 for infielder&nbsp;Rodolfo Castro. He was originally selected by the Phillies in the 5th round of the 2015 Draft out of Chino Hills High School (Calif.).Sisk, 28, made his Major League debut on April 15 at Yankee Stadium and allowed 1 run over 5.1 innings (5 games) this season. He was&nbsp;acquired from Minnesota with right hander&nbsp;Steven Cruz&nbsp;for outfielder&nbsp;Michael A. Taylor&nbsp;on Jan. 23, 2023.Moss, 21, appeared in 92 games for High-A Quad Cities this season and slashed .270/.372/.418 (89-for-330) after he was signed as a minor league free agent on Aug. 6, 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Royals acquire LHP Bailey Falter from Pirates

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753991126792.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;K-State women's basketball head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/jeff-mittie/2524" rel="smarttag" rev="2524">Jeff Mittie</a></dfn>&nbsp;announced the complete non-conference schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season on Thursday.&nbsp;
 The Wildcats' non-conference slate features six home games, including a visit from SEC foe Texas A&amp;M, participation in the 2025 Cancun Challenge in Cancun, Mexico, visits to 2025 NCAA Tournament participants Green Bay and Creighton and a neutral-site matchup against Ole Miss in the third annual Bill Snyder Basketball Classic presented by Southern Bank in St. Joseph, Missouri.
 "This is a great schedule for our team," stated Mittie about the slate. "We have opportunities to play quality programs in many different settings that will prepare and grow our team for the challenging Big 12 season."
 K-State's 2025-26 non-conference schedule includes eight games against teams that reached the postseason in 2024-25, including seven teams that played in the NCAA Tournament (Columbia, Creighton, Green Bay, North Carolina, Ole Miss, San Diego State and South Dakota State) and one team that played in the WNIT (Troy).
 K-State officially begins its 58th season of action on Monday, November 3, as the Wildcats host Omaha. This will be the third time the Wildcats will open a season against the Mavericks, as K-State started the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons against Omaha. K-State leads the series between the schools, 8-0 and won the last meeting on December 8, 2021, in Omaha, 87-56.
 Omaha registered a 14-17 overall record in 2024-25 and will be led in the 2025-26 season by first-year head coach and former Texas guard Jamie Carey.
 K-State will play its first road game of the season, as the Wildcats visit Dallas, Texas, to face SMU on Saturday, November 8. This will be the first meeting between the teams in Dallas and the third meeting overall.
 The Mustangs will be led by first-year head coach Adia Barnes, who previously spent nine seasons at Arizona.
 The Wildcats return to Bramlage to begin a four-game home stand on Monday, November 10, as the Wildcats host Lamar. K-State leads the series with the Cardinals, 5-0, capturing the last meeting between the programs, 73-55, on December 5, 2018, in Manhattan.
 Lamar finished the 2024-25 season with a 22-8 overall record and a 17-3 mark in the Southland Conference.
 The Wildcats continue action at Bramlage on Thursday, November 13, as K-State faces South Dakota. K-State leads the series with the Coyotes, 5-0 and won the last meeting, 84-81 in overtime, on November 19, 2015, in Manhattan.
 South Dakota concluded the 2024-25 season with an 11-20 overall mark and a 5-11 record in the Summit League.
 In its third game of the home stand, K-State will host Texas A&amp;M on Sunday, November 16. K-State leads the overall series, 14-9 and won the last meeting, 89-50, on December 8, 2024, in College Station, Texas.
 The Aggies finished the 2024-25 season with a 10-19 overall record, including a 3-13 mark in the SEC.
 The Wildcats end the home stand on Tuesday, November 18, by hosting Sun Belt Conference member Troy. This will be the first meeting in the series between the programs.
 Troy registered a 24-14 overall record and a 13-5 record in Sun Belt action. The Trojans reached the 2025 WNIT Final before falling at Buffalo.
 K-State returns to the road, as the Wildcats visit Green Bay on Saturday, November 22. This will be the eighth meeting in the series, as the Wildcats are 5-2 against the Phoenix. The last meeting between the programs came in the 2024-25 season-opener on November 4, 2024, in Manhattan, a 92-45 K-State win.
 Green Bay completed the 2024-25 season with a 29-6 overall record, including a 14-2 record at the Kress Center, and a 19-1 record in the Horizon League. The Phoenix won both the Horizon League regular season and tournament titles. Green Bay's season ended in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, falling to Alabama, 81-67.
 During the Thanksgiving holiday, the Wildcats will make its third appearance in the Cancun Challenge at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. The games will take place November 27-29. The Wildcats are slated to play three games in the event and are in the Mayan Division. Among its three games, the Wildcats will face Columbia, North Carolina and South Dakota State with the schedule of games yet to be set.
 K-State has played in Cancun four times in its history. The Wildcats' first trip to Cancun came in 1999 in the Cancun Tournament, followed by a trip to the Caribbean Classic in 2007. K-State has taken part in the Cancun Challenge in 2011 and 2018.&nbsp;
 Fan packages are available for the Cancun Challenge and can be purchased at cancunchallenge.net.
 K-State and Columbia will meet for the first time. This will be the 12th time the Wildcats will face an Ivy League opponent and the first time since the 2018-19 season, when K-State defeated Princeton in the Cancun Challenge.
 Columbia ended the 2024-25 season in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, falling to West Virginia. The Lions completed the season with a 24-7 overall record and a 13-1 mark in the Ivy League.
 The Wildcats will face the Tarheels for the third time in the history of the series and the second time in the last three seasons. K-State captured the last meeting against North Carolina, 63-56, in Estero, Florida, during the 2023 Gulf Coast Showcase.
 North Carolina reached the 2025 NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 with a 29-8 overall record.
 K-State and South Dakota State will match up for the ninth time and the first time since Dec. 10, 2022, when the Jackrabbits ended a seven-game losing streak to the Wildcats with an 82-78 win in Kansas City.
 South Dakota State completed the 2024-25 season by reaching the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, where the Jackrabbits fell to eventual national champion UConn. South Dakota State registered a record of 30-4 overall and secured the regular season and tournament Summit League crowns.
 The Wildcats will challenge Ole Miss in the third annual Bill Snyder Basketball Classic on Sunday, December 7, in St. Joseph, Missouri, at Civic Arena at 2 p.m. Ticket information for the Bill Snyder Classic will be released in mid- to late-September. For more information, visit stjomosports.com. This will be the second meeting in the series between the schools and the first since December 15, 1977, in Columbus, Ohio, a 62-57 Ole Miss win.
 Ole Miss reached the Sweet 16 of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, falling to top-seed UCLA, 79-62, in Spokane, Washington. Ole Miss notched an overall record of 22-11, including a 10-6 record in the SEC.
 The Wildcats will play their final home non-conference game on Wednesday, December 10, at 11 a.m., as K-State hosts San Diego State in its second annual Education Day game. This will be the fourth meeting in the series as K-State owns a 2-1 mark between the schools including a 77-56 win over the Aztecs on December 5, 1998, in Manhattan.
 San Diego State completed the 2024-25 season with a 25-10 overall record and reached the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament.
 K-State will close out its 2024-25 non-conference regular season schedule on Sunday, December 14, as the Wildcats will visit Creighton and D.J. Sokol Arena for the first time since November 23, 2009. The Wildcats lead the all-time series, 16-5.
 The Bluejays finished the 2024-25 season with a 26-7 overall record, including a runner-up finish in the Big East with a 16-2 mark and an at-large bid into the 2025 NCAA Tournament before falling to Illinois, 66-57, in the first round.
 In preparation for the 2025-26 non-conference schedule, K-State will visit Tarleton State on Monday, October 27, for an exhibition game. The game will be played at Tarleton State's new EECU Center, an 8,000 seat on-campus arena.
 The 2025-26 Big 12 schedule, game times, promotional and television schedules will be released later this summer.
 The 2026 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women's Basketball Championship will be contested at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, March 4-8, 2025. Ticket information will be available later this year.
 The Wildcats enter the 2025-26 season with the return of junior guard&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/taryn-sides/11857" rel="smarttag" rev="11857">Taryn Sides</a></dfn>. She will be joined by transfers Izela Arenas, Nastja Claessens, Jenessa Cotton, Tess Heal and Ramiya White and the freshmen class of Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod and Jordan Speiser.
 K-State women's basketball season tickets for the 2025-26 season are available now. For more information on season ticket packages for the Wildcats' home schedule, contact the K-State Athletics Ticket Office by calling 1-800-221-CATS or visit www.kstatesports.com/tickets.</div>

🏀 K-State women set 2025-26 non-conference schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Ryan Bergert&nbsp;and&nbsp;Stephen Kolek&nbsp;from the San Diego Padres for catcher&nbsp;Freddy Fermin.

Bergert, 25, made his Major League debut earlier this season and went 1-0 with a 2.78 ERA (11 ER in 35.2 IP) in 11 appearances (7 starts) with San Diego, while holding opponents to a .186 average (24-for-129). He didn’t earn a decision in any of his 7 starts, despite allowing 3 runs or fewer in all of them, and the Padres went 6-1 in those games.

Bergert was selected by San Diego out of West Virginia University in the 6th round of the 2021 Draft, after undergoing&nbsp;Tommy John&nbsp;Surgery following the 2020 season. He was named an MiLB.com Organization All-Star in 2023 and was added to San Diego’s 40-man roster last November.

Kolek, 28, went 4-5 with a 4.18 ERA (37 ER in 79.2 IP) this season with San Diego and has completed at least 5.0 innings in 12 of 14 starts. He’s induced 17 groundball double plays in just 14 starts, 2nd most in the Majors to&nbsp;José Soriano’s&nbsp;24.

On May 10 of this season—in his 2nd career start—Kolek recorded a complete game shutout in San Diego’s 21-0 victory at Coors Field. It was 1 of only 10 shutouts in the Majors this season, and he became the fourth pitcher since 2010 to record a shutout within his 1st 2 career starts. It was the 1st shutout by a visiting pitcher at Coors Field since&nbsp;Clayton Kershaw&nbsp;did it on July 2, 2013.

Kolek was selected by the Dodgers in the 11th round of the 2018 Draft out of Texas A&amp;M University, and was traded to Seattle in 2021. In December 2023, he was selected by San Diego in the Rule 5 Draft and made the Padres 2024 Opening Day roster. Kolek made relief 42 appearances last season before suffering a season-ending injury in July.&nbsp;

Fermin, 30, has played in parts of four seasons with Kansas City since making his Major League debut in 2022, and has made the Opening Day roster in each of the last two seasons.

In 2024, Fermin was named a finalist for the&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award at catcher and hit .271 (92-for-339) in 111 games. In 67 games this season, he’s hit .255 (49-for-192). Fermin was originally signed by Kansas City as an international free agent in 2015 out of Venezuela.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740070363004.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals catcher Freddy Fermin (34) takes a pitch as home plate umpire Quinn Wolcott (81) calls the balls and strikes during a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, July 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley, File)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals catcher Freddy Fermin (34) takes a pitch as home plate umpire Quinn Wolcott (81) calls the balls and strikes during a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, July 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have acquired right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Ryan Bergert&nbsp;and&nbsp;Stephen Kolek&nbsp;from the San Diego Padres for catcher&nbsp;Freddy Fermin.Bergert, 25, made his Major League debut earlier this season and went 1-0 with a 2.78 ERA (11 ER in 35.2 IP) in 11 appearances (7 starts) with San Diego, while holding opponents to a .186 average (24-for-129). He didn’t earn a decision in any of his 7 starts, despite allowing 3 runs or fewer in all of them, and the Padres went 6-1 in those games.Bergert was selected by San Diego out of West Virginia University in the 6th round of the 2021 Draft, after undergoing&nbsp;Tommy John&nbsp;Surgery following the 2020 season. He was named an MiLB.com Organization All-Star in 2023 and was added to San Diego’s 40-man roster last November.Kolek, 28, went 4-5 with a 4.18 ERA (37 ER in 79.2 IP) this season with San Diego and has completed at least 5.0 innings in 12 of 14 starts. He’s induced 17 groundball double plays in just 14 starts, 2nd most in the Majors to&nbsp;José Soriano’s&nbsp;24.On May 10 of this season—in his 2nd career start—Kolek recorded a complete game shutout in San Diego’s 21-0 victory at Coors Field. It was 1 of only 10 shutouts in the Majors this season, and he became the fourth pitcher since 2010 to record a shutout within his 1st 2 career starts. It was the 1st shutout by a visiting pitcher at Coors Field since&nbsp;Clayton Kershaw&nbsp;did it on July 2, 2013.Kolek was selected by the Dodgers in the 11th round of the 2018 Draft out of Texas A&amp;M University, and was traded to Seattle in 2021. In December 2023, he was selected by San Diego in the Rule 5 Draft and made the Padres 2024 Opening Day roster. Kolek made relief 42 appearances last season before suffering a season-ending injury in July.&nbsp;Fermin, 30, has played in parts of four seasons with Kansas City since making his Major League debut in 2022, and has made the Opening Day roster in each of the last two seasons.In 2024, Fermin was named a finalist for the&nbsp;Rawlings&nbsp;Gold Glove Award at catcher and hit .271 (92-for-339) in 111 games. In 67 games this season, he’s hit .255 (49-for-192). Fermin was originally signed by Kansas City as an international free agent in 2015 out of Venezuela.

⚾ Royals trade catcher Freddy Fermin to Padres for two pitchers

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753980237992.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/leyton-cure/16181" rel="smarttag" rev="16181">Leyton Cure</a></dfn>&nbsp;was one of 116 players named to the 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, the organization announced on Thursday, awarded to college football players from across the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) who exemplify community service, academic excellence, and athletic achievement. Widely regarded as college football's premier award for community service, the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy celebrates student-athletes who use their platforms to serve others and create positive change. Named after 1996 Heisman Trophy winner and University of Florida quarterback Danny Wuerffel, who turned his football success into a lifelong mission of service, the award reflects his legacy of leadership and humanitarianism. This year marks the 21st&nbsp;anniversary of the trophy's founding. From Goodland, Kansas, Cure played in all 12 games in 2024 at tight end for the Jayhawks, including one start vs. Colorado on Senior Day. Cure was named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team and helped Kansas football to back-to-back program records in GPA, including a 3.46 team GPA in the spring of 2025. Cure transferred to Kansas from Fort Hays State, where he earned the MIAA Academic Excellence Award with a perfect 4.0 GPA three times and was named to the MIAA Academic Honor Roll in 2023, 2022 and 2021. While at Fort Hays, Cure started seven games, while playing in 11 in 2022. Cure hauled in 26 passes for 281 yards and two touchdowns. Cure is among Kansas' most active in the community, as he is a leader in Kansas' summer community service initiative. Cure has participated in several community cleanup events, summer camps, youth engagement activities and more. For the second year, Allstate is partnering with the Wuerffel Foundation to align two of college football's most meaningful honors: the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy. Together, they recognize student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in community service, academics and athletics.&nbsp; The 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists and recipient will be selected by a national voting committee, with input from a fan vote. The 2025 recipient will also serve as Captain of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show on December 12th, airing on ESPN. The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will follow on January 31, 2026, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.</div>

🏈 KU's Cure named to Wuerffel Trophy preseason watch list

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753978224738.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
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CHARLOTTE, NC - The NJCAA has announced the 2025-26 Committee Chairs for the 45 committees that were selected by Board Chair Troy Tucker, Board Vice Chair Kerri Ann McTiernan, Men's Administrator Rob Nielson, Women's Administrator Mary Young, and Sports Governance Chair Darin Monroe.&nbsp;
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Among the chairs for the 45 committees is Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Commissioner Mike Saddler along with Region 6 Men&rsquo;s Director Jake Ripple, Region 6 Women&rsquo;s Director Tony Tompkins, Region 6 Assistant Men&rsquo;s Director Josh Gooch, and Region 6 Assistant Women&rsquo;s Director Riann Mullis as the five will serve as committee chairs for a total of six committees.
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Each of the five will return as committee chairs for committees that they were chairs for during the 2024-25 academic year, with Saddler serving as committee chair of two different committees. In addition to being the committee chair for D1 baseball, Saddler will chair the newly created Championships/Alignment Committee that will oversee current regional structure and all championships host site selections with Marci Henry (NJCAA Region 9) serving as vice chair.
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Other committee chair assignments from NJCAA Region 6 include Ripple serving as committee chair for the D1 Football committee, Tompkins overseeing the D2 Women&rsquo;s Basketball committee, Gooch serving as chair for the D1 Men&rsquo;s Golf committee, and Mullis serving as chair of the D2 Volleyball committee.
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As committee chairs, duties include leading weekly calls with their respective committees, conducting national rankings, assisting with postseason at-large and seeding selections, and All-America selections. In addition to these roles, chairs complete committee-related assignments and annual NJCAA Convention tasks. In some cases, chairs will attend their respective national championship(s).
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In addition to committee chair assignments, eight different individuals from the KJCCC will be members on a total of 14 different committees for the 2025-26 academic year. Committee assignments for KJCCC (NJCAA Region 6) representatives are as follows:
 Doug Desmarteau &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D2 Men&rsquo;s Soccer Committee, NJCAA Clay Target Shooting Committee Josh Gooch &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA Track &amp; Field Committee, NJCAA D1 Volleyball Committee Greg McVey &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D1 Women&rsquo;s Soccer Committee, NJCAA Competitive Cheerleading Committee, NJCAA Women&rsquo;s Flag Football Committee Riann Mullis &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA Wrestling Committee Mike Pilosof &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D1 Women&rsquo;s Golf Committee, NJCAA D1 Men&rsquo;s Soccer Committee, NJCAA Men&rsquo;s Volleyball Committee Jake Ripple &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D1 Women&rsquo;s Basketball Committee Mike Saddler &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D1 Men&rsquo;s Basketball Committee Tony Tompkins &ndash;&nbsp;NJCAA D2 Women&rsquo;s Soccer Committee</div>

NJCAA announces 2025-26 committee chairs, committee assignments

<figure>
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 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Thursday, July 31, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7s4ms-191dfda-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals walk-off for series win; ⚾ Monarchs advance to NBCWS quarterfinals

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MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash; Former conference foes Kansas State and Missouri will play a home-and-home exhibition series each of the next two seasons beginning with a matchup on Friday, Oct. 24 at Mizzou Arena to open the 2025-26 season. The exhibition will be broadcast nationally at 9 p.m., CT with ticket information to be released at a later date. The Wildcats will host the Tigers for an exhibition during the 2026-27 season. The two schools have played 237 times in the regular season since 1907 with K-State holding a narrow 121-116 series edge through transitions from the Missouri Valley, Big Six, Big Seven, Big Eight and Big 12 Conferences. The schools have not met on the hardwood since an 82-67 win by K-State at the 2018 Paradise Jam. Missouri won 22 games a season ago, tying for sixth in the SEC with a 10-8 mark, before losing to Drake in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The complete 2025-26 non-conference schedule has now been released and can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule">here</a>. Season tickets went on sale June 10 with a variety of ticket options. Fans can purchase tickets by calling toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.</div>

🏀 K-State to begin exhibition series with Mizzou

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez drove in MJ Melendez with a single leading off the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Wednesday while matching a major league record by using nine total pitchers in the shutout.

Sam Long (1-2) was the last of the relievers for Kansas City. He had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 10th before striking out Sean Murphy and Eli White and getting Luke Williams to line out to left field.

Kansas City put Melendez on second base as a pinch runner in the bottom half, and Perez rapped the second pitch from Daysbel Hernandez (4-2) into the gap in right field to give the Royals the win.

The only other club to use nine pitchers in a shutout was Cleveland, which also did it in a 10-inning game in 2016.

Joey Wentz, claimed off waivers by the Braves earlier this month, dazzled while pitching a mere 25 minutes away from Shawnee Mission East High School, where he put together one of the best prep pitching careers in Kansas history.

The former first-round draft pick has largely failed to live up to expectations, and he carried a 5.76 ERA into his fourth start for Atlanta. But Wentz allowed just one hit and three walks over 6 2/3 innings, striking out seven.

With their rotation ailing, the Royals countered with a contingent of relief pitchers.

Angel Zerpa started on no rest and pitched into the second, and Jonathan Bowlan was their only reliever who retired more than three batters — he went two innings. John Schreiber struck out the side in the fourth, and Hunter Harvey escaped a two-on, no-out jam in the sixth by recording three consecutive outs.

Long's escape in the 10th set up Perez's winning hit in the bottom half.

The low-scoring affair came after the Braves won the series-opener 10-7 and the Royals won 9-6 on Tuesday night.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753917266978.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez drove in MJ Melendez with a single leading off the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Atlanta Braves 1-0 on Wednesday while matching a major league record by using nine total pitchers in the shutout.Sam Long (1-2) was the last of the relievers for Kansas City. He had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 10th before striking out Sean Murphy and Eli White and getting Luke Williams to line out to left field.Kansas City put Melendez on second base as a pinch runner in the bottom half, and Perez rapped the second pitch from Daysbel Hernandez (4-2) into the gap in right field to give the Royals the win.The only other club to use nine pitchers in a shutout was Cleveland, which also did it in a 10-inning game in 2016.Joey Wentz, claimed off waivers by the Braves earlier this month, dazzled while pitching a mere 25 minutes away from Shawnee Mission East High School, where he put together one of the best prep pitching careers in Kansas history.The former first-round draft pick has largely failed to live up to expectations, and he carried a 5.76 ERA into his fourth start for Atlanta. But Wentz allowed just one hit and three walks over 6 2/3 innings, striking out seven.With their rotation ailing, the Royals countered with a contingent of relief pitchers.Angel Zerpa started on no rest and pitched into the second, and Jonathan Bowlan was their only reliever who retired more than three batters — he went two innings. John Schreiber struck out the side in the fourth, and Hunter Harvey escaped a two-on, no-out jam in the sixth by recording three consecutive outs.<h2>Key moment</h2>Long's escape in the 10th set up Perez's winning hit in the bottom half.<h2>Key stat</h2>The low-scoring affair came after the Braves won the series-opener 10-7 and the Royals won 9-6 on Tuesday night.<h2>Up next</h2>The Braves have not announced their starter for Thursday in Cincinnati, though newly acquired RHP Carlos Carrasco is likely to get the ball. The Royals have the day off before opening a series Friday night in Toronto.