Day 3 of the NBC World Series brought a wave of offense, dramatic comebacks, and dominant performances under the Kansas summer sun and late into the night. Here's a game-by-game recap:

Junction City overcame a 2-1 deficit to down TPA Texas 11-7 in a game where both teams combined for 23 hits. Despite outhitting the Brigade 12-11, TPA couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities.

Kyler Horsman led the Brigade with a 3-for-5 performance, including a home run and four RBIs, earning Player of the Game honors. Gannon White also added three hits and scored three times, while Gabe Yonto stole two bases to spark the Brigade offense.

Luke Regas paced TPA with two RBIs. Starter Ben Stec allowed nine runs—just three earned—over four innings. Joey Ruller earned the win for Junction City, striking out six over 5.1 innings.

The Goldpanners overcame a 4-run deficit in the middle innings to rally past GPS Legends 8-6 in another offense-heavy contest.

Mathew Pinal starred for Alaska with a 3-for-5 day, driving in two runs and scoring once. Catcher Christian Olea turned heads with a three-hit game and gunned down three attempted base stealers. Starter Connor Wolf gave up five runs (three earned) across four innings.

A wild ninth inning saw the Hays Larks storm back from a 5-run deficit to edge Oklahoma MVP 9-8, despite being out-hit 13 to 5.

Lane Sparks drew a crucial walk that brought home the go-ahead run and also drove in four RBIs during his 2-for-5 outing. Thomas Lyssy delivered a pivotal two-run single in the Larks' six-run rally.

Hutch Russell went 4-for-5 for Oklahoma, and Connor Cavnar chipped in with two hits and two RBIs. Starter Tayte Dome threw three shutout innings, but the bullpen couldn't hold off the late surge.

Pitching and timely hitting carried Lonestar Kraken to a dominant 9-1 win over Seattle. Starter Trent Collier set the tone with three no-hit innings, striking out five.

Josh Livingston and Chase Pendley each drove in two runs, while Ethan Blakeney closed the door with two scoreless innings in relief.

Seattle’s only run came via a Paxton Bigby sacrifice fly. Starter Eumir Sepulveda surrendered five runs over 5.2 innings, walking five and striking out three.

Santa Barbara Foresters 10, BTL Hornets 0

The nightcap was all Foresters as they dispatched the BTL Hornets 10-0 in five innings. Santa Barbara plated runs early and often behind three-hit, three-RBI performances from both Caden Miller and Easton Moomau.

Starter AJ Krodel tossed a complete game shutout, allowing three hits and striking out three. Left fielder Mic Paul added a solo homer to complete the rout.

BTL managed three hits and played error-free defense but couldn’t match Santa Barbara’s firepower.

Sunday's schedule includes the second game of the tournament for the Hutchinson Monarchs as they play the Dodge City A's at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you can't make it to Eck Stadium for the game, you can watch it on the NBC livestream on YouTube at this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK-w1DJi0gI">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114906517.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure>Day 3 of the NBC World Series brought a wave of offense, dramatic comebacks, and dominant performances under the Kansas summer sun and late into the night. Here's a game-by-game recap:<h2>Junction City Brigade 11, TPA Texas 7</h2>Junction City overcame a 2-1 deficit to down TPA Texas 11-7 in a game where both teams combined for 23 hits. Despite outhitting the Brigade 12-11, TPA couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities.Kyler Horsman led the Brigade with a 3-for-5 performance, including a home run and four RBIs, earning Player of the Game honors. Gannon White also added three hits and scored three times, while Gabe Yonto stole two bases to spark the Brigade offense.Luke Regas paced TPA with two RBIs. Starter Ben Stec allowed nine runs—just three earned—over four innings. Joey Ruller earned the win for Junction City, striking out six over 5.1 innings.<h2>Alaska Goldpanners 8, GPS Legends 6</h2>The Goldpanners overcame a 4-run deficit in the middle innings to rally past GPS Legends 8-6 in another offense-heavy contest.Mathew Pinal starred for Alaska with a 3-for-5 day, driving in two runs and scoring once. Catcher Christian Olea turned heads with a three-hit game and gunned down three attempted base stealers. Starter Connor Wolf gave up five runs (three earned) across four innings.<h2>Hays Larks 9, Oklahoma MVP 8</h2>A wild ninth inning saw the Hays Larks storm back from a 5-run deficit to edge Oklahoma MVP 9-8, despite being out-hit 13 to 5.Lane Sparks drew a crucial walk that brought home the go-ahead run and also drove in four RBIs during his 2-for-5 outing. Thomas Lyssy delivered a pivotal two-run single in the Larks' six-run rally.Hutch Russell went 4-for-5 for Oklahoma, and Connor Cavnar chipped in with two hits and two RBIs. Starter Tayte Dome threw three shutout innings, but the bullpen couldn't hold off the late surge.<h2>Lonestar Kraken 9, Seattle Blackfins 1</h2>Pitching and timely hitting carried Lonestar Kraken to a dominant 9-1 win over Seattle. Starter Trent Collier set the tone with three no-hit innings, striking out five.Josh Livingston and Chase Pendley each drove in two runs, while Ethan Blakeney closed the door with two scoreless innings in relief.Seattle’s only run came via a Paxton Bigby sacrifice fly. Starter Eumir Sepulveda surrendered five runs over 5.2 innings, walking five and striking out three.<h2>Santa Barbara Foresters 10, BTL Hornets 0</h2>The nightcap was all Foresters as they dispatched the BTL Hornets 10-0 in five innings. Santa Barbara plated runs early and often behind three-hit, three-RBI performances from both Caden Miller and Easton Moomau.Starter AJ Krodel tossed a complete game shutout, allowing three hits and striking out three. Left fielder Mic Paul added a solo homer to complete the rout.BTL managed three hits and played error-free defense but couldn’t match Santa Barbara’s firepower.Sunday's schedule includes the second game of the tournament for the Hutchinson Monarchs as they play the Dodge City A's at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you can't make it to Eck Stadium for the game, you can watch it on the NBC livestream on YouTube at this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK-w1DJi0gI">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NBC World Series Day 3 wrap, Monarchs play A's at noon 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Steven Kwan hit a two-run home run, Tanner Bibee struck out eight in five innings, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4 on Saturday night to earn a doubleheader split.

Kansas City&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cleveland-guardians-kansas-city-royals-score-bc3d30f7d34788831c14afe7331d699f">won the first game 5-3</a>&nbsp;with a walk-off homer in the 10th inning. The Guardians have not swept the Royals in a doubleheader since April 24, 2008.

Kwan's 431-foot home run into the right field fountains of Kauffman Stadium gave the Guardians a 6-2 lead.

The Guardians drew four straight walks in the first with Carlos Santana drawing the RBI walk to give Cleveland a 1-0 lead. Johnathan Rodríguez extended the lead with a two-run double in the first. Daniel Schneemann hit a sacrifice fly RBI in the third.

Bobby Witt Jr. and Freddy Fermin each hit two-run home runs for Kansas City.

Bibee (7-9) allowed four runs on seven hits for his third straight win. After taking the loss in game one, Emmanuel Clase earned his 24th save of the season.

Kris Bubic (8-7) gave up four runs on three hits in 2 2/3 innings of work with four walks and one strikeout. Bubic got off to a slow start, throwing 42 pitches in the first inning. The four walks matched a season-high.

Jac Caglianone exited game one on Saturday with left groin tightness and was moved to the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain.

Kwan's home run was the spark the Guardians needed to get the win. Since July 7, Cleveland has homered in 14 of 16 games.

Santana drew his 133rd career walk against the Royals, which tied Rickey Henderson for most career walks vs. Kansas City.

LHP Joey Cantillo (2-0, 3.91 ERA) will start the series finale for Cleveland. LHP Noah Cameron (4-4, 2.61) is slated to take the mound for Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Steven Kwan hit a two-run home run, Tanner Bibee struck out eight in five innings, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4 on Saturday night to earn a doubleheader split.Kansas City&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cleveland-guardians-kansas-city-royals-score-bc3d30f7d34788831c14afe7331d699f">won the first game 5-3</a>&nbsp;with a walk-off homer in the 10th inning. The Guardians have not swept the Royals in a doubleheader since April 24, 2008.Kwan's 431-foot home run into the right field fountains of Kauffman Stadium gave the Guardians a 6-2 lead.The Guardians drew four straight walks in the first with Carlos Santana drawing the RBI walk to give Cleveland a 1-0 lead. Johnathan Rodríguez extended the lead with a two-run double in the first. Daniel Schneemann hit a sacrifice fly RBI in the third.Bobby Witt Jr. and Freddy Fermin each hit two-run home runs for Kansas City.Bibee (7-9) allowed four runs on seven hits for his third straight win. After taking the loss in game one, Emmanuel Clase earned his 24th save of the season.Kris Bubic (8-7) gave up four runs on three hits in 2 2/3 innings of work with four walks and one strikeout. Bubic got off to a slow start, throwing 42 pitches in the first inning. The four walks matched a season-high.Jac Caglianone exited game one on Saturday with left groin tightness and was moved to the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kwan's home run was the spark the Guardians needed to get the win. Since July 7, Cleveland has homered in 14 of 16 games.<h2>Key stat</h2>Santana drew his 133rd career walk against the Royals, which tied Rickey Henderson for most career walks vs. Kansas City.<h2>Up next</h2>LHP Joey Cantillo (2-0, 3.91 ERA) will start the series finale for Cleveland. LHP Noah Cameron (4-4, 2.61) is slated to take the mound for Kansas City.

⚾ Kwan's homer lifts Guardians over Royals and doubleheader split

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Royals have reportedly acquired veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk from the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to multiple sources. The deal has not been confirmed by either club, and details of the return to Arizona were not immediately available.

Grichuk, 33, has primarily served in a platoon role against left-handed pitching this season. Entering Saturday, he was hitting .243 with a .280 on-base percentage and .462 slugging percentage, along with seven home runs, 15 doubles and 22 RBIs in his second year with the Diamondbacks. In 2024, he posted an .875 OPS and 12 homers after being acquired midseason.

A 12-year Major League veteran, Grichuk owns a career .252 batting average with 210 home runs.

Kansas City, which entered Saturday ranked 29th in the league in runs scored and home runs, is seeking an offensive boost as the second half of the season unfolds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752363715123.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Royals have reportedly acquired veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk from the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to multiple sources. The deal has not been confirmed by either club, and details of the return to Arizona were not immediately available.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Kansas City Royals are acquiring outfielder Randal Grichuk in a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks, sources tell ESPN.&mdash; Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan/status/1949266194697216378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Grichuk, 33, has primarily served in a platoon role against left-handed pitching this season. Entering Saturday, he was hitting .243 with a .280 on-base percentage and .462 slugging percentage, along with seven home runs, 15 doubles and 22 RBIs in his second year with the Diamondbacks. In 2024, he posted an .875 OPS and 12 homers after being acquired midseason.A 12-year Major League veteran, Grichuk owns a career .252 batting average with 210 home runs.Kansas City, which entered Saturday ranked 29th in the league in runs scored and home runs, is seeking an offensive boost as the second half of the season unfolds.

⚾ Royals reportedly acquiring Grichuk from D-backs

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India hit a three-run home run in the 10th inning to send the Kansas City Royals past the Cleveland Guardians 5-3 on Saturday in the first game of a doubleheader.

Trailing 3-2, John Rave and Luke Maile walked to lead off the 10th off Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase (5-3).

Automatic runner Tyler Tolbert was picked off second base after Rave's walk. India's 413-foot drive to left center won it for the Royals. It was India’s fifth homer of the season.

Kyle Manzardo's bases-loaded RBI single in the top of the 10th gave the Guardians a 3-2 lead.

Steven Cruz (3-1) earned the win for Kansas City.

Maikel Garcia went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, triple and a walk. Salvador Perez had a two-hit game with a double. Garcia's two-run homer in the fourth inning gave the Royals a 2-0 lead. It was his ninth homer of the season.

Bo Naylor drove in both of the runs for the Guardians with a sac fly in the fifth and an RBI double in the seventh.

Kansas City's Michael Wacha pitched 5 1-3 innings of one-run ball, allowing three hits with five strikeouts and one walk.

Gavin Williams gave up two runs and five hits in six innings with three strikeouts and two walks for the Royals.

The series opener on Friday game was postponed because of weather, which set up a split doubleheader on Saturday.

Missed opportunities in the later innings cost the Guardians. With two on and one out in the seventh, Brayan Rocchio attempted to score from first on Naylor’s RBI double, but was thrown out at home. Cleveland had runners on first and second with one out in the ninth and had the bases loaded in the 10th, but only scored once. The Guardians went 3-for-14 with runners in scoring position and left 10 runners on base.

Jac Caglianone (left hamstring tightness) left the game in the top of the third inning after grounding into a double play in the bottom of the second.

This was the first matchup for between the AL Central foes since April 13. For the Royals, it was the first divisional game since June 8.

RHP Tanner Bibee (6-9, 4.27 ERA) will start for Cleveland in the second game. LHP Kris Bubic (8-6, 2.38) will counter for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753569070739.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonathan India hit a three-run home run in the 10th inning to send the Kansas City Royals past the Cleveland Guardians 5-3 on Saturday in the first game of a doubleheader.Trailing 3-2, John Rave and Luke Maile walked to lead off the 10th off Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase (5-3).Automatic runner Tyler Tolbert was picked off second base after Rave's walk. India's 413-foot drive to left center won it for the Royals. It was India’s fifth homer of the season.Kyle Manzardo's bases-loaded RBI single in the top of the 10th gave the Guardians a 3-2 lead.Steven Cruz (3-1) earned the win for Kansas City.Maikel Garcia went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, triple and a walk. Salvador Perez had a two-hit game with a double. Garcia's two-run homer in the fourth inning gave the Royals a 2-0 lead. It was his ninth homer of the season.Bo Naylor drove in both of the runs for the Guardians with a sac fly in the fifth and an RBI double in the seventh.Kansas City's Michael Wacha pitched 5 1-3 innings of one-run ball, allowing three hits with five strikeouts and one walk.Gavin Williams gave up two runs and five hits in six innings with three strikeouts and two walks for the Royals.The series opener on Friday game was postponed because of weather, which set up a split doubleheader on Saturday.<h2>Key moment</h2>Missed opportunities in the later innings cost the Guardians. With two on and one out in the seventh, Brayan Rocchio attempted to score from first on Naylor’s RBI double, but was thrown out at home. Cleveland had runners on first and second with one out in the ninth and had the bases loaded in the 10th, but only scored once. The Guardians went 3-for-14 with runners in scoring position and left 10 runners on base.<h2>Trainer’s room</h2>Jac Caglianone (left hamstring tightness) left the game in the top of the third inning after grounding into a double play in the bottom of the second.<h2>Key stats</h2>This was the first matchup for between the AL Central foes since April 13. For the Royals, it was the first divisional game since June 8.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Tanner Bibee (6-9, 4.27 ERA) will start for Cleveland in the second game. LHP Kris Bubic (8-6, 2.38) will counter for Kansas City.___

⚾ Royals rally past Guardians in 10 innings in first game of doubleheader

WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs&nbsp;opened pool play at the 91st annual NBC World Series with a 13-8 victory over the San Diego Stars in a weather-delayed, 8-inning contest Friday night at Eck Stadium.

Hutchinson built an early 8-1 lead behind a string of timely hits and a strong start from pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht before a weather delay halted the game in the bottom of the sixth inning. The Stars made things interesting with a late rally, but the Monarchs responded with a decisive four-run seventh inning to put the game out of reach.

“We came out hot, stayed focused through the delay, and made sure to answer back when they pushed,” Monarchs manager Casey Lippoldt said. “This group showed a lot of toughness tonight.”

San Diego took a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth, but Hutchinson quickly answered. After loading the bases in the second, the Monarchs struck for four runs, including a two-RBI single by Drew Bugner and a run-scoring single by Jake Gutierrez. Hutchinson added two more in the third and another pair in the fourth on a two-run double by Keegan Demmer.

The Monarchs led 8-3 when lightning forced a stoppage with two outs in the sixth. When play resumed, San Diego trimmed the lead to 8-5 with a two-run single by Landen Bailey in the seventh.

But Hutchinson came roaring back in the bottom half. With the bases loaded, AJ Mustow cleared them with a three-run triple before Tyler Mitchell drew a walk and later scored on Dylan Bell’s RBI double in the eighth.

Gutierrez finished 4-for-5 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Bell added two hits and one RBI, while Bugner and Demmer each chipped in two hits and combined for three runs scored.

On the mound, Giesbrecht struck out four over five innings of work, allowing just one run on two hits. Brady Pacha closed things out in the eighth with back-to-back strikeouts.

The Monarchs (1-0 in pool play) continue NBC World Series action Sunday at noon against the Dodge City A’s at Eck Stadium.

Follow updates from the NBC World Series on HutchPost.com and Tournament Central on the NBC World Series web-page at nbcworldseries.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753517317137.png" alt="Hutchinson Monarchs win lightning delayed game in 1st round of pool play in the 2025 NBC World Series game Friday night in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Monarchs win lightning delayed game in 1st round of pool play in the 2025 NBC World Series game Friday night in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs&nbsp;opened pool play at the 91st annual NBC World Series with a 13-8 victory over the San Diego Stars in a weather-delayed, 8-inning contest Friday night at Eck Stadium.Hutchinson built an early 8-1 lead behind a string of timely hits and a strong start from pitcher Ethan Giesbrecht before a weather delay halted the game in the bottom of the sixth inning. The Stars made things interesting with a late rally, but the Monarchs responded with a decisive four-run seventh inning to put the game out of reach.“We came out hot, stayed focused through the delay, and made sure to answer back when they pushed,” Monarchs manager Casey Lippoldt said. “This group showed a lot of toughness tonight.”San Diego took a 1-0 lead in the top of the fourth, but Hutchinson quickly answered. After loading the bases in the second, the Monarchs struck for four runs, including a two-RBI single by Drew Bugner and a run-scoring single by Jake Gutierrez. Hutchinson added two more in the third and another pair in the fourth on a two-run double by Keegan Demmer.The Monarchs led 8-3 when lightning forced a stoppage with two outs in the sixth. When play resumed, San Diego trimmed the lead to 8-5 with a two-run single by Landen Bailey in the seventh.But Hutchinson came roaring back in the bottom half. With the bases loaded, AJ Mustow cleared them with a three-run triple before Tyler Mitchell drew a walk and later scored on Dylan Bell’s RBI double in the eighth.Gutierrez finished 4-for-5 with three RBIs and two runs scored. Bell added two hits and one RBI, while Bugner and Demmer each chipped in two hits and combined for three runs scored.On the mound, Giesbrecht struck out four over five innings of work, allowing just one run on two hits. Brady Pacha closed things out in the eighth with back-to-back strikeouts.The Monarchs (1-0 in pool play) continue NBC World Series action Sunday at noon against the Dodge City A’s at Eck Stadium.Follow updates from the NBC World Series on HutchPost.com and Tournament Central on the NBC World Series web-page at nbcworldseries.com.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs pull away late to win NBC World Series pool play game

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753458189816.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 football started fall training camp at Murfin Family Practice Fields on Thursday morning. Presented by Country Financial, fall camp will be a one month build up to the grand opening of the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State on Aug. 23. "Very pleased, great attitude," head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879" rel="smarttag" rev="879">Lance Leipold</a></dfn>&nbsp;said of the first day of practice. "They've been anxious to get out there and play for real. I love the attitude and the hustle so far, but we've thrown a lot at them. It's a good first day, a good first step, got a lot to work on yet, but I like where it's trending."
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?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=1948372576306331806&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F7%2F24%2Ffootball-begins-2025-fall-training-camp&amp;sessionId=86e9d50ad0024eebf31f767d5e9986c3f8412143&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1948372576306331806"></iframe></div>
The first practice of the season featured KU's 112 players running through individual drills and team-related work. <iframe title="Video: Kansas Football Fall Camp Opening Press Conference - University of Kansas" src="https://kuathletics.com/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=2253&amp;autoplay=false" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" align="" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> The Jayhawks are just under a month away until the start of the 2025 season with the grand opening of the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 23 when Kansas hosts Fresno State.&nbsp;The season-opener serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and single-game non-conference tickets and season tickets still&nbsp;<a title="Original URL:
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 <iframe title="Video: Kansas Football Fall Camp Opening Press Conference - University of Kansas" src="https://kuathletics.com/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=2253&amp;autoplay=false" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" align="" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>

🏈 KU opens fall training camp ahead of 2025 season

<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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🎧 ⚾ NBC World Series Starts - Monarchs open tonight; ⚾ Wind Surge down Frisco 

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

WICHITA, Kan. — The 91st NBC World Series opened Thursday with a pair of games at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium. The Dodge City A’s cruised to an 8-0 run-rule victory over the Seattle Cheney Studs in seven innings, while the Hays Larks held on for a 6-5 win over the Seattle Blackfins.

Day 2 action on Friday features four games. The noon opener pits the Lonestar Kraken against the Denver Cougars, followed by a 3 p.m. matchup between the BTL Hornets and Lonestar Baseball Club.

The evening session begins at 6 p.m. with the Hutchinson Monarchs taking on the San Diego Stars. The night concludes with the Derby Twins facing the Santa Barbara Foresters at 8:30 p.m.

You can watch all of the games at the NBC World Series by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcws/streams">clicking here</a>.

Below is the direct stream for the Monarchs' game at 6 p.m. Friday against the San Diego Stars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753114906517.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON </a>Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The 91st NBC World Series opened Thursday with a pair of games at Wichita State’s Eck Stadium. The Dodge City A’s cruised to an 8-0 run-rule victory over the Seattle Cheney Studs in seven innings, while the Hays Larks held on for a 6-5 win over the Seattle Blackfins.Day 2 action on Friday features four games. The noon opener pits the Lonestar Kraken against the Denver Cougars, followed by a 3 p.m. matchup between the BTL Hornets and Lonestar Baseball Club.The evening session begins at 6 p.m. with the Hutchinson Monarchs taking on the San Diego Stars. The night concludes with the Derby Twins facing the Santa Barbara Foresters at 8:30 p.m.You can watch all of the games at the NBC World Series by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcws/streams">clicking here</a>.Below is the direct stream for the Monarchs' game at 6 p.m. Friday against the San Diego Stars.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M4LzL_Bquqs?si=wjcX2cRXdxMRNvQi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

⚾ Kansas teams go 2-0 on Day 1 of NBC World Series

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas basketball coach Bill Self had two stents inserted into his heart to treat blocked arteries Thursday at Lawrence Memorial Hospital after he felt “felt unwell and experienced some concerning symptoms.”

“The procedure went very well, and he is expected to make a full recovery,” the Kansas athletic department said in a statement. "He is in good spirits and expects to be released from the hospital soon.”

The 62-year-old Self directed the final practice of the summer session Thursday morning as he prepares for his 23rd seasons as head coach of the Jayhawks. He missed the 2023 Big 12 and NCAA tournaments because of a heart condition, getting a standard catheterization and having two stents inserted to help treat blocked arteries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681311280126.jpeg" alt="Bill Self-Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bill Self-Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas basketball coach Bill Self had two stents inserted into his heart to treat blocked arteries Thursday at Lawrence Memorial Hospital after he felt “felt unwell and experienced some concerning symptoms.”“The procedure went very well, and he is expected to make a full recovery,” the Kansas athletic department said in a statement. "He is in good spirits and expects to be released from the hospital soon.”The 62-year-old Self directed the final practice of the summer session Thursday morning as he prepares for his 23rd seasons as head coach of the Jayhawks. He missed the 2023 Big 12 and NCAA tournaments because of a heart condition, getting a standard catheterization and having two stents inserted to help treat blocked arteries.

KU basketball coach Bill Self has stents inserted to treat blocked arteries

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753386613814.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;The American Conference has announced its 18-game men's basketball league opponent matrix for the upcoming 2025-26 season.&nbsp; Each team has been assigned six home-and-home series, plus three home-only and three road-only opponents. Wichita State will have home-and-home series against Charlotte, East Carolina, Florida Atlantic, Memphis, South Florida and Tulsa, while also hosting North Texas, Rice and Temple in Charles Koch Arena. Wichita State will travel to UAB, Tulane and UTSA, but they will not make the return trip to Wichita this season. Matchups are annually determined by television inventory and contractual requirements, competitive issues/NET implications and geographic rivalries. The complete 2025-26 men's basketball composite schedule with dates and times will be announced in September. The first conference play dates will be Tuesday, December 30, 2025 and will run through Sunday, March 8, 2026. The 2026&nbsp;American Conference Men's Basketball Championship will feature a 10-team tournament and be held at Legacy Arena&nbsp;in Birmingham, Ala. Season tickets are on sale now, and season ticket renewals are available as well.&nbsp;To purchase, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://goshockers.evenue.net/events/MBT">GoShockers.com/Tickets</a>, dial 316-978-FANS (3267) or stop by the Shocker Ticket Office, located inside Charles Koch Arena, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wichita State Men's Basketball 2025-26 American Conference Pairings: Home:&nbsp;North Texas, Rice, Temple Away:&nbsp;UAB, Tulane, UTSA Home &amp; Away:&nbsp;Charlotte, East Carolina, Florida Atlantic, Memphis, South Florida, Tulsa
&nbsp;</div>

🏀 WSU has conference pairings for 2025-26 schedule

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753386375368.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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WICHITA &ndash;&nbsp;The American Conference announced the home-away pairings for the 2025-26 women's basketball season Wednesday afternoon. &nbsp; The conference schedule again features 18 games with each team playing six home-and-home series as well as three home-only and three road-only opponents. The Shockers will play UAB, East Carolina, Florida Atlantic, Memphis, Tulsa and Tulane both at home and on the road, while also hosting North Texas, Temple and 2024-25 regular season champion UTSA in Charles Koch Arena. Wichita State will face Charlotte, Rice and South Florida on the road only. &nbsp; American Conference play begins Tuesday, December 30, 2025, and will run through the weekend of March 7, 2026. The complete 2025-26 schedule with dates and times will be released at a later date. Season tickets are available at GoShockers.com/Tickets starting at $50.
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Wichita State Women's Basketball American Conference Pairings: Home Only North Texas Temple UTSA &nbsp; Away Only Charlotte Rice South Florida &nbsp; Home and Away UAB East Carolina Florida Atlantic Memphis Tulsa Tulane</div>

🏀 American Conference announces matchups for 2025-26 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739679538024.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Matchups and game times for the Fort Myers Tip-Off Classic were announced today, with Kansas being set to face off against Georgia and Dayton as part of the Island Division of the event. The Jayhawks will meet Georgia at 6:30 p.m. CT on Friday, Nov. 28 before closing out the event against Dayton at 6:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, Nov. 29. Butler will also compete in the four-team Island Division. Both games will be played at Suncoast Credit Union Arena on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College. Each game of the Fort Myers Tip-Off Classic will be nationally televised by ION with distribution on cable, satellite, major streaming platforms and over the air. Making its first appearance in the Fort Myers Tip-Off Classic, Kansas will face Dayton for the first time in program history, while taking on Georgia for the third time, first since 1993. KU's all-time series vs. Georgia is tied at 1-1, including a 92-79 Jayhawk victory in the last meeting, played on Dec. 18, 1993, in New York, N.Y. The matchups round out the 12-game non-conference schedule that 11th year head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/brandon-schneider/927" rel="smarttag" rev="927">Brandon Schneider</a></dfn>'s team will face prior to Big 12 Conference play. The non-conference schedule, which was released last week, includes power four matchups against Missouri (Nov. 15) at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, at home against Minnesota (Nov. 19) and at Northwestern (Dec. 3). Season tickets for the 2025-26 Kansas women's basketball campaign are now on sale. For as low as $110, fans can reserve their seat at historic Allen Fieldhouse for the upcoming season. To learn more about ticket options, fans are encouraged to visit KUAthletics.com or call 800-34-HAWKS.</div>

🏀 KU women to face Georgia, Dayton at Fort Myers Tipo-Off Classic

<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>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Thursday, July 24, 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=kzwua-1913dc7-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 win series over Cubs; ⚾ Wind Surge shutout; 🏀 JHX Hoops knocked out of TBT

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — JHX Hoops, the Kansas alumni team saw its run at The Basketball Tournament (TBT) end in the round of 16 Wednesday night in dramatic fashion at Municipal Auditorium.

With the Elam Ending target score set at 71, JHX Hoops led by three after a clutch 3-pointer from Zeke Mayo. But a costly turnover by David McCormack allowed Heartfire a final chance, and Eric Washington capitalized, sinking a baseline jumper to lift his team to a 71-70 win.

“We let it slip through our hands,” Collins said. “We had multiple chances to put them away and didn’t. It was the little things, boxing out, getting back on defense, holding them to one shot, that cost us.”

Despite the heartbreak, Collins cherished the experience of coaching a roster full of former Jayhawks and other high-level talent.

“It’s been amazing. That’s why it hurts, being around the guys, sharing dinners, meetings, just vibing. It’s what made it so special,” he said. “We learned from each other. Sometimes I had to step back and let them do what they saw. I’m a players’ coach, and I grew from this, too.”

Mayo’s late triple gave JHX Hoops a momentary lead, but Heartfire clawed back with grit and timely plays.

“Very frustrating,” Mayo said. “We felt like we had it. Some 50-50 balls didn’t bounce our way. But playing for Sherron, that was the most special part for me. Watching him growing up and now playing for him — it meant a lot.”

Heartfire now advances to face the Aftershocks, the Wichita State alumni team, in the TBT quarterfinals at 8 p.m. Sunday at Koch Arena. The game will air on FS1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753192622884.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy TBT" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy TBT</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — JHX Hoops, the Kansas alumni team saw its run at The Basketball Tournament (TBT) end in the round of 16 Wednesday night in dramatic fashion at Municipal Auditorium.With the Elam Ending target score set at 71, JHX Hoops led by three after a clutch 3-pointer from Zeke Mayo. But a costly turnover by David McCormack allowed Heartfire a final chance, and Eric Washington capitalized, sinking a baseline jumper to lift his team to a 71-70 win.“We let it slip through our hands,” Collins said. “We had multiple chances to put them away and didn’t. It was the little things, boxing out, getting back on defense, holding them to one shot, that cost us.”Despite the heartbreak, Collins cherished the experience of coaching a roster full of former Jayhawks and other high-level talent.“It’s been amazing. That’s why it hurts, being around the guys, sharing dinners, meetings, just vibing. It’s what made it so special,” he said. “We learned from each other. Sometimes I had to step back and let them do what they saw. I’m a players’ coach, and I grew from this, too.”Mayo’s late triple gave JHX Hoops a momentary lead, but Heartfire clawed back with grit and timely plays.“Very frustrating,” Mayo said. “We felt like we had it. Some 50-50 balls didn’t bounce our way. But playing for Sherron, that was the most special part for me. Watching him growing up and now playing for him — it meant a lot.”Heartfire now advances to face the Aftershocks, the Wichita State alumni team, in the TBT quarterfinals at 8 p.m. Sunday at Koch Arena. The game will air on FS1.

🏀 JHX Hoops drops thriller in TBT round of 16

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753363561842.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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WICHITA, Kan. (July 23, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/aaron-rozek-702065">Aaron&nbsp;Rozek</a>&nbsp;threw three-plus innings of shutout baseball while the Wichita Wind Surge were shut out 3-0 by the Frisco RoughRiders at Equity Bank Park. The RoughRiders even the series after striking early in the ballgame.
After Frisco got their first two runners on base on the game&rsquo;s first two pitches with a single and a hit by pitch, Sebastian Walcott smoked a two-run double 108 miles per hour off his bat to the left center alley to give the RoughRiders an early 2-0 lead in the top of the first. Those would be lone runs surrendered by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/christian-macleod-681306">Christian MacLeod</a>, who went on to stack up a season-high six strikeouts.
While a groundout gave Frisco their third run in the top of the sixth, Rozek escaped a jam after the first two RoughRiders reached to start the seventh. After throwing toward the plate to get a force out, he struck out Abimelec Ortiz to leave men on second and third heading into the stretch. Rozek finished his night with just two hits given up over three and one-third innings with three strikeouts, marking his second scoreless long relief appearance of the season with the Wind Surge.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?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=1948199224316956754&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwichita-shut-out-by-frisco&amp;sessionId=1261e343738d8b25e45e5de99b625a3fc81b69e5&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="1948199224316956754"></iframe></div>
Wichita could not muster a hit against the Frisco bullpen for the final four and one-third innings, dropping the second game of the series 3-0. MacLeod took the loss to fall to 0-3 on the year after giving up two earned runs on three hits over four innings.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Christian MacLeod tallies a season-high six strikeouts.</li>
<li>The pitching staffs for both the Wind Surge and RoughRiders struck out double-digit batters.</li>
<li>Wichita was shut out for the fourth time in 2025.</li>
<li>Gabby Gonzalez wraps up a 24 Game On Base Streak and a 13 Game Hitting Streak.</li>
<li>The Turbo Tubs return to Equity Bank Park tomorrow night.</li>
</ul>
The Wind Surge continue the series with the Frisco RoughRiders on July 24 at 7:05 PM on K-State Night. The first 2,000 fans will receive a K-State x Wind Surge hat! The Turbo Tubs also take the field on Thirsty Thursday, presented by LDF, Standard Beverages, and House of Schwan. 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>

⚾ RoughRiders shut out Wind Surge

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753363435364.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;The K-State baseball team was honored for its academic success by the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA), as the Wildcats received the Team Academic Excellence Award for the 2024-25 season. The award, established in 2016, recognizes high school and college teams coached by ABCA members that achieve a cumulative team GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale during the academic year. This year, 440 college programs and nearly 300 high school programs were recognized for their academic achievement. The Wildcats posted a 3.24 team GPA for the 2024-25 academic year, while four student-athletes &ndash; catcher&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/bear-madliak/12309" rel="smarttag" rev="12309">Bear Madliak</a></dfn>, outfielder&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/keegan-o-connor/12317" rel="smarttag" rev="12317">Keegan O'Connor</a></dfn>, and pitchers&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-ruhl/12303" rel="smarttag" rev="12303">Ty Ruhl</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/lincoln-sheffield/12332" rel="smarttag" rev="12332">Lincoln Sheffield</a></dfn>&nbsp;&ndash; earned perfect 4.0 GPAs during the spring semester. K-State was one of nine Big 12 schools to earn the award, marking the program's second time receiving the honor and the first since the 2016-17 season. The American Baseball Coaches Association has a long tradition of recognizing the achievements of baseball coaches and student-athletes. The ABCA/Rawlings All-America Teams are the nation's oldest, founded in 1949, and the ABCA's awards program also includes the ABCA/Rawlings All-Region Awards, the ABCA/Diamond Regional &amp; National Coaches of the Year and several other major awards such as the ABCA Hall of Fame and the Ethics in Coaching Award. Under seventh-year head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/pete-hughes/2603" rel="smarttag" rev="2603">Pete Hughes</a></dfn>, the Wildcats concluded the 2025 season with an overall record of 32-26, including a record-breaking 17 conference victories. K-State advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year, marking the program's first back-to-back appearances since 2010&ndash;11.</div>

⚾ K-State earns ABCA Team Academic Excellence Award

CHICAGO (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit two of Kansas City’s four two-run homers and doubled on a 3-for-4 afternoon, leading the Royals past the Chicago Cubs 8-4 on Wednesday.

Salvador Perez and rookie Tyler Tolbert also went deep as the Royals took two of three games from the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Tolbert’s homer was his first in the majors.

Matt Shaw and Pete Crow-Armstrong hit solo shots for Chicago, which entered tied with Milwaukee for first place in the NL Central and the best record in the majors.

Pasquantino’s pair of 400-foot-plus drives gave him two multi-homer games this season, three for his career and upped his season total to 17. He entered with just one hit in his previous 16 at-bats.

Seth Lugo (7-5) tossed six innings, allowing two runs on four hits. The right-hander stuck out six and walked two before three relievers wrapped up the win.

The 35-year-old Perez has five homers in his last five games and cracked three in the series to give him a team leading 18.

Chicago's Colin Rea (8-4) was tagged with six runs, five earned, on six hits in five innings, ending his four-start winning streak.

Pasquantino drove his second homer off Rea’s full-count down-the-middle curve in the fifth to up the Royals lead to 6-2. Tolbert put it out of reach in the sixth, making it 8-2 with a drive off reliever Drew Pomeranz.

Tolbert left the game in the bottom of the eighth.

Rea had allowed only five runs over 23 2/3 innings in his four previous starts for an ERA of 1.90.

Royals RHP Michael Wacha (4-9, 3.62 ERA) faces Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (6-4, 3.54) on Friday in Kansas City.

Cubs LHP Shota Imanaga (7-3, 2.40) starts Friday at Rate Field against the White Sox, who send RHP Adrian Houser (5-2, 1.89) to the mound.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753305143425.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit two of Kansas City’s four two-run homers and doubled on a 3-for-4 afternoon, leading the Royals past the Chicago Cubs 8-4 on Wednesday.Salvador Perez and rookie Tyler Tolbert also went deep as the Royals took two of three games from the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Tolbert’s homer was his first in the majors.Matt Shaw and Pete Crow-Armstrong hit solo shots for Chicago, which entered tied with Milwaukee for first place in the NL Central and the best record in the majors.Pasquantino’s pair of 400-foot-plus drives gave him two multi-homer games this season, three for his career and upped his season total to 17. He entered with just one hit in his previous 16 at-bats.Seth Lugo (7-5) tossed six innings, allowing two runs on four hits. The right-hander stuck out six and walked two before three relievers wrapped up the win.The 35-year-old Perez has five homers in his last five games and cracked three in the series to give him a team leading 18.Chicago's Colin Rea (8-4) was tagged with six runs, five earned, on six hits in five innings, ending his four-start winning streak.<h2>Key moment</h2>Pasquantino drove his second homer off Rea’s full-count down-the-middle curve in the fifth to up the Royals lead to 6-2. Tolbert put it out of reach in the sixth, making it 8-2 with a drive off reliever Drew Pomeranz.Tolbert left the game in the bottom of the eighth.<h2>Key stat</h2>Rea had allowed only five runs over 23 2/3 innings in his four previous starts for an ERA of 1.90.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Michael Wacha (4-9, 3.62 ERA) faces Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (6-4, 3.54) on Friday in Kansas City.Cubs LHP Shota Imanaga (7-3, 2.40) starts Friday at Rate Field against the White Sox, who send RHP Adrian Houser (5-2, 1.89) to the mound.

⚾ Pasquantino hits two homers as Royals top the Cubs

Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference

Colby, Kan. - Genesee Nutrition and the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) of the NJCAA have announced a partnership agreement that will elevate the organization's 2025-26 conference championships with healthy nutrition snacks for KJCCC student-athletes. The partnership marks the first conference agreement for Genesee Nutrition within the NJCAA.

A premier nutrition supplier based out of Evergreen, Colorado, Genesee Nutrition will supply the KJCCC with a generous supply of its high-quality, great-tasting protein bars, each packed with 20 grams of protein. The bars will be distributed directly to teams and student-athletes competing at select KJCCC championship tournaments during the upcoming academic year.

“I’m thrilled to team up with Genesee Nutrition as we continue to elevate the KJCCC through strategic partnerships that will help out our student-athletes and member institutions” said Mike Saddler, KJCCC Commissioner. “Providing a great nutritional product to student-athletes at our championship events will help them perform at the highest level, while the opportunity for our schools to partner with Genesee and take advantage of discounted pricing will be a huge benefit to them throughout the school year.”

KJCCC member colleges will also be able to participate in Genesee Nutrition’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships/">collegiate partner program</a>&nbsp;where the company supplies college athletic departments with its elite protein bars for teams and athletes while also providing discounted pricing to replenish team inventories.The goal of the partnership is simple, yet impactful, according to Genesee Nutrition: ensure KJCCC teams and student-athletes have access to clean, reliable nutrition as they strive for excellence on and off the field.

“Our entire team at Genesee Nutrition is thrilled to be working with the KJCCC," said Will Carr, founder and CEO. "Providing our high-quality protein bars to student-athletes striving for a conference title is incredibly rewarding. Our commitment to peak performance, both on and off the field, resonates deeply with the mission of KJCCC and its member colleges. It’s a win-win partnership from our standpoint."

Founded in 2021, Genesee Nutrition is dedicated to supporting collegiate athletes nationwide in their pursuit of peak performance. The company currently partners with top athletic programs, including&nbsp;<a href="https://uahchargers.com/">University of Alabama-Huntsville</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://minesathletics.com/">Colorado School of Mines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/">Fort Hays State University</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://roadrunnersathletics.com/">Metropolitan State University of Denver</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://rattlerathletics.com/">Saint Mary’s University</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://umobilerams.com/news/2024/12/27/general-university-of-mobile-athletics-partners-with-genesee-nutrition.aspx">University of Mobile</a>, and more.

For more information about Genesee Nutrition and its products, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.geneseenutrition.com/">www.geneseenutrition.com</a>.About Genesee NutritionGenesee Nutrition is a family-owned, Colorado-based company dedicated to fueling athletes with premium nutrition. Committed to redefining the protein bar, Genesee crafts bars that deliver both exceptional taste and optimal performance benefits. Each bar is packed with 20 grams of protein, made from natural and organic ingredients, and is non-GMO and gluten-free.

Through its Collegiate Partnership Program, Genesee Nutrition supports student-athletes in reaching their peak potential both on and off the field. With a focus on clean, performance-driven nutrition, Genesee Nutrition partners with college athletic programs nationwide to ensure teams have the fuel they need to succeed.

To learn more about how Genesee Nutrition can power your team and student-athletes, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships">geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships</a>.

About the Kansas Jayhawk Community College ConferenceThe Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) is a 20-member collegiate athletics conference and a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) with all member schools located in the state of Kansas. The conference was founded in 1923 and has seen great success as a conference with 153 National Titles won by 18 different schools since 1953. Hosting 16 Conference/Region Championship events throughout the state of Kansas annually, the KJCCC continues to build upon its history while serving as one of the most successful conferences in the NJCAA, as evidenced by 21 National Championships since 2020. The conference is focused on delivering high-quality athletic experiences and providing student athletes with championship opportunities in 19 sponsored sports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753288911772.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Jayhawk Community College ConferenceColby, Kan. - Genesee Nutrition and the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) of the NJCAA have announced a partnership agreement that will elevate the organization's 2025-26 conference championships with healthy nutrition snacks for KJCCC student-athletes. The partnership marks the first conference agreement for Genesee Nutrition within the NJCAA.A premier nutrition supplier based out of Evergreen, Colorado, Genesee Nutrition will supply the KJCCC with a generous supply of its high-quality, great-tasting protein bars, each packed with 20 grams of protein. The bars will be distributed directly to teams and student-athletes competing at select KJCCC championship tournaments during the upcoming academic year.“I’m thrilled to team up with Genesee Nutrition as we continue to elevate the KJCCC through strategic partnerships that will help out our student-athletes and member institutions” said Mike Saddler, KJCCC Commissioner. “Providing a great nutritional product to student-athletes at our championship events will help them perform at the highest level, while the opportunity for our schools to partner with Genesee and take advantage of discounted pricing will be a huge benefit to them throughout the school year.”KJCCC member colleges will also be able to participate in Genesee Nutrition’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships/">collegiate partner program</a>&nbsp;where the company supplies college athletic departments with its elite protein bars for teams and athletes while also providing discounted pricing to replenish team inventories.The goal of the partnership is simple, yet impactful, according to Genesee Nutrition: ensure KJCCC teams and student-athletes have access to clean, reliable nutrition as they strive for excellence on and off the field.“Our entire team at Genesee Nutrition is thrilled to be working with the KJCCC," said Will Carr, founder and CEO. "Providing our high-quality protein bars to student-athletes striving for a conference title is incredibly rewarding. Our commitment to peak performance, both on and off the field, resonates deeply with the mission of KJCCC and its member colleges. It’s a win-win partnership from our standpoint."Founded in 2021, Genesee Nutrition is dedicated to supporting collegiate athletes nationwide in their pursuit of peak performance. The company currently partners with top athletic programs, including&nbsp;<a href="https://uahchargers.com/">University of Alabama-Huntsville</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://minesathletics.com/">Colorado School of Mines</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/">Fort Hays State University</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://roadrunnersathletics.com/">Metropolitan State University of Denver</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://rattlerathletics.com/">Saint Mary’s University</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://umobilerams.com/news/2024/12/27/general-university-of-mobile-athletics-partners-with-genesee-nutrition.aspx">University of Mobile</a>, and more.For more information about Genesee Nutrition and its products, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.geneseenutrition.com/">www.geneseenutrition.com</a>.About Genesee NutritionGenesee Nutrition is a family-owned, Colorado-based company dedicated to fueling athletes with premium nutrition. Committed to redefining the protein bar, Genesee crafts bars that deliver both exceptional taste and optimal performance benefits. Each bar is packed with 20 grams of protein, made from natural and organic ingredients, and is non-GMO and gluten-free.Through its Collegiate Partnership Program, Genesee Nutrition supports student-athletes in reaching their peak potential both on and off the field. With a focus on clean, performance-driven nutrition, Genesee Nutrition partners with college athletic programs nationwide to ensure teams have the fuel they need to succeed.To learn more about how Genesee Nutrition can power your team and student-athletes, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships">geneseenutrition.com/collegiate-athletic-nutrition-partnerships</a>.About the Kansas Jayhawk Community College ConferenceThe Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) is a 20-member collegiate athletics conference and a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) with all member schools located in the state of Kansas. The conference was founded in 1923 and has seen great success as a conference with 153 National Titles won by 18 different schools since 1953. Hosting 16 Conference/Region Championship events throughout the state of Kansas annually, the KJCCC continues to build upon its history while serving as one of the most successful conferences in the NJCAA, as evidenced by 21 National Championships since 2020. The conference is focused on delivering high-quality athletic experiences and providing student athletes with championship opportunities in 19 sponsored sports.

KJCCC announces parternship with Genesee Nutrition

The Kansas City Royals have recalled outfielder MJ Melendez from Triple-A Omaha, the team announced Wednesday morning.

Melendez takes the roster spot of Nick Loftin, who was placed on the 7-day concussion list. Loftin injured himself on a tag play in Tuesday's loss to the Cubs.

Melendez began the season with the Royals, before starting the season in a slump, going 4-for-47 (.085) with 20 strikeouts in 16 games. During his time in Omaha, Melendez hit .252 with 13 home runs in 72 games played for the Storm Chasers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695072079064.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez celebrates after hitting an RBI triple during the third inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez celebrates after hitting an RBI triple during the third inning of a baseball game against the Cleveland Guardians Monday, Sept. 18, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City Royals have recalled outfielder MJ Melendez from Triple-A Omaha, the team announced Wednesday morning.Melendez takes the roster spot of Nick Loftin, who was placed on the 7-day concussion list. Loftin injured himself on a tag play in Tuesday's loss to the Cubs.Melendez began the season with the Royals, before starting the season in a slump, going 4-for-47 (.085) with 20 strikeouts in 16 games. During his time in Omaha, Melendez hit .252 with 13 home runs in 72 games played for the Storm Chasers.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We have made the following roster moves: <a href="https://t.co/O2XfaYrn0B">pic.twitter.com/O2XfaYrn0B</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1948048712275742793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

⚾ Royals recall Melendez from Omaha

<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>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Wednesday, July 23, 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=kisqy-191263a-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 drop Game 2 in Chicago; 🏀 Aftershocks to the quarterfinals; ⛳ Adkins qualifies for U.S. Amateur

The AfterShocks are one step closer to a $1 million payday after a dramatic 66-63 win over Forever Coogs in Tuesday’s Wichita Regional championship of The Basketball Tournament (TBT).

Marcus Keene, a former NCAA scoring leader at Central Michigan, hit a contested three-pointer to clinch the Elam Ending target score, igniting a raucous celebration at Koch Arena. The AfterShocks, a team of Wichita State alumni, are now headed to the TBT quarterfinals for the fourth time in six tournament appearances.

Keene led all scorers with 17 points, while center Marcus Santos Silva added 15 points on 7-of-9 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds. Nike Sibande chipped in 14 points.

Forever Coogs, a team of Houston alumni, were led by Tyrece Radford with 15 points and gave the AfterShocks all they could handle. They forced five turnovers and limited the AfterShocks to just eight points in the third quarter, setting up a tight finish.

The turning point came in the final frame when Markis McDuffie’s offensive rebound and pair of free throws gave the AfterShocks a 58-57 lead and set the Elam Ending target score at 66. After a series of tense possessions, Keene delivered the final blow with his deep three.

With the win, the AfterShocks remain in contention to host the TBT semifinals and championship game — a possibility that opened up after La Familia (Kentucky alumni) lost Tuesday. Hosting privileges are based on fan attendance, and Koch Arena has consistently delivered high turnout.

The AfterShocks will play again at 8 p.m. Sunday on FS1 against the winner of Heatfire (top seed) or JHX Hoops (Kansas alumni), who face off Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Municipal Auditorium. The Wichita crowd will be ready.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753272422499.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State AthleticsThe AfterShocks are one step closer to a $1 million payday after a dramatic 66-63 win over Forever Coogs in Tuesday’s Wichita Regional championship of The Basketball Tournament (TBT).Marcus Keene, a former NCAA scoring leader at Central Michigan, hit a contested three-pointer to clinch the Elam Ending target score, igniting a raucous celebration at Koch Arena. The AfterShocks, a team of Wichita State alumni, are now headed to the TBT quarterfinals for the fourth time in six tournament appearances.Keene led all scorers with 17 points, while center Marcus Santos Silva added 15 points on 7-of-9 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds. Nike Sibande chipped in 14 points.Forever Coogs, a team of Houston alumni, were led by Tyrece Radford with 15 points and gave the AfterShocks all they could handle. They forced five turnovers and limited the AfterShocks to just eight points in the third quarter, setting up a tight finish.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MARCUS ELAM KEENE JUST BECAME A LEGEND IN WICHITA!!!! HE WINS IT FOR THE AFTERSHOCKS OMG WHAT A GAME😱 BEDLAM IN KOCH ARENA!!!! <a href="https://t.co/WeFqkFloJG">pic.twitter.com/WeFqkFloJG</a>&mdash; TBT (@thetournament) <a href="https://twitter.com/thetournament/status/1947850221116854517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The turning point came in the final frame when Markis McDuffie’s offensive rebound and pair of free throws gave the AfterShocks a 58-57 lead and set the Elam Ending target score at 66. After a series of tense possessions, Keene delivered the final blow with his deep three.With the win, the AfterShocks remain in contention to host the TBT semifinals and championship game — a possibility that opened up after La Familia (Kentucky alumni) lost Tuesday. Hosting privileges are based on fan attendance, and Koch Arena has consistently delivered high turnout.The AfterShocks will play again at 8 p.m. Sunday on FS1 against the winner of Heatfire (top seed) or JHX Hoops (Kansas alumni), who face off Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Municipal Auditorium. The Wichita crowd will be ready.

🏀 Keene's shot puts AfterShocks into TBT quarterfinals 

CHICAGO (AP) — Matthew Boyd pitched seven crisp innings for his 11th win, and the Chicago Cubs spoiled Rich Hill’s return to the majors with a 6-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson and Matt Shaw each had two hits as Chicago ended a two-game slide. Shaw, Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly had RBIs.

Boyd (11-3) gave up four hits, struck out six and walked one in winning his fifth straight start. The left-hander retired the first eight Royals batters and didn't allow a hit until Nick Loftin led off the fifth with a line single.

Caleb Thielbar followed with a perfect eighth and Daniel Palencia worked around two singles in the ninth to complete a six-hitter.

Hill (0-1)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">became the oldest active player in baseball</a>&nbsp;after the Royals selected the 45-year-old from Triple-A Omaha. He allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings. The left-hander threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one.

It was the debut of Hill's 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.

Hill and the Royals fell behind 2-0 in the second when the Royals committed two errors, botching potential double plays. Crow-Armstrong doubled in a run off Hill in the fifth.

The Cubs put the game away with three runs in the seventh off Jonathan Bowlan.

After Loftin singled in the fifth, the Royals loaded the bases with one out on Freddy Fermin’s bloop and John Rave’s bunt single. Swanson snared Kyle Isbel’s broken-bat liner at shortstop, then dived to tag out Fermin before he could get back to second for an inning-ending double play.

The Cubs stole six bases in the game, including four off Hill. That included a double-steal by Justin Turner and Shaw in the second, Chicago scored its final run with on double-steal with Kyle Tucker stealing home and Suzuzki second base in the seventh.

Royals RHP Seth Lugo (6-5, 2.94 ERA) will face Cubs RHP Colin Rea (8-3, 3.80) on Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753237083056.png" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game in Chicago, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Rich Hill throws against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning of a baseball game in Chicago, Tuesday, July 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Matthew Boyd pitched seven crisp innings for his 11th win, and the Chicago Cubs spoiled Rich Hill’s return to the majors with a 6-0 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson and Matt Shaw each had two hits as Chicago ended a two-game slide. Shaw, Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly had RBIs.Boyd (11-3) gave up four hits, struck out six and walked one in winning his fifth straight start. The left-hander retired the first eight Royals batters and didn't allow a hit until Nick Loftin led off the fifth with a line single.Caleb Thielbar followed with a perfect eighth and Daniel Palencia worked around two singles in the ninth to complete a six-hitter.Hill (0-1)&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-cubs-rich-hill-oldest-e09c2d43a7a83309e1cf9696c3e80d71">became the oldest active player in baseball</a>&nbsp;after the Royals selected the 45-year-old from Triple-A Omaha. He allowed three runs — one earned — and six hits in five innings. The left-hander threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one.It was the debut of Hill's 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.Hill and the Royals fell behind 2-0 in the second when the Royals committed two errors, botching potential double plays. Crow-Armstrong doubled in a run off Hill in the fifth.The Cubs put the game away with three runs in the seventh off Jonathan Bowlan.<h2>Key moment</h2>After Loftin singled in the fifth, the Royals loaded the bases with one out on Freddy Fermin’s bloop and John Rave’s bunt single. Swanson snared Kyle Isbel’s broken-bat liner at shortstop, then dived to tag out Fermin before he could get back to second for an inning-ending double play.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Cubs stole six bases in the game, including four off Hill. That included a double-steal by Justin Turner and Shaw in the second, Chicago scored its final run with on double-steal with Kyle Tucker stealing home and Suzuzki second base in the seventh.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Seth Lugo (6-5, 2.94 ERA) will face Cubs RHP Colin Rea (8-3, 3.80) on Wednesday.

⚾ Matthew Boyd sharp for 11th win, Cubs blank Royals and Rich Hill 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753276538345.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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WICHITA, Kan. (July 22, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kyler-fedko-693459">Kyler Fedko</a>&nbsp;became the first player in Wind Surge franchise history to record a 20-20 season in franchise history in a 12-5 victory for Wichita over the Frisco RoughRiders at Equity Bank Park. He hit a pair of home runs to reach 20 this year, while he entered the game with 23 stolen bases, swiping his 24th in the contest.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kala-i-rosario-693850">Kala&rsquo;i Rosario</a>&nbsp;and Fedko opened the night by becoming the sixth pair of Wind Surge teammates to hit back-to-back home runs this season. Rosario&rsquo;s 11th of the year was a two-run homer, while Fedko&rsquo;s 19th in 2025 came on a solo shot to make the score 3-0 Wichita after an inning.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jake-rucker-696160">Jake Rucker</a>&nbsp;left the yard to left field on the first pitch of the bottom of the second for the third Wind Surge long ball of the night and the team&rsquo;s fourth run.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/andrew-cossetti-681355">Andrew Cossetti</a>&nbsp;lofted a double off the outfield wall in the home half of the third to bring in Fedko for a 5-0 Wind Surge advantage.
Abimelec Ortiz broke the scoreless spell for Frisco with a sacrifice fly to right in the top of the fourth. A groundout put across another run later in the inning to put the game within three for the RoughRiders.
Fedko found the Wichita bullpen in left-center in the bottom of the fifth for his second long ball of the night, becoming the first-ever Wind Surge player to record a 20-20 season in franchise history.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?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=1947836206294691974&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-throw-their-own-home-run-derby-in-series-opener-against-roughriders&amp;sessionId=e9fe3043d748a2a92b510e2fbd71675fc6e270ca&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="1947836206294691974"></iframe></div>
While three more scores came for Frisco on two hits in the top of the sixth, a round-tripper trio courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kaelen-culpepper-701785">Kaelen Culpepper</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/gabriel-gonzalez-694224">Gabby Gonzalez</a>, and Rosario added four more tallies for Wichita in the bottom half of the inning for an 11-5 Wind Surge score through sixth, while Cossetti singled home the 12th run for Wichita in the eighth, bringing the eventual final score into the picture.
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<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/mike-paredes-702474">Mike Paredes</a>&nbsp;threw three innings of two-hit baseball to go with three strikeouts on the way to his 10th win of the year.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>The Wind Surge hit back-to-back home runs for the sixth and seventh time in 2025. They have accomplished the feat four times in July.</li>
<li>Kyler Fedko is the first Wichita Wind Surge player to ever record a 20-20 season.</li>
<li>Kala&rsquo;i Rosario played a part in both of the back-to-back home run scenarios tonight. He began the first one in the first and completed the second one in the sixth.</li>
<li>Mike Paredes ties Kody Funderburk for the most wins in a season in Wind Surge History.</li>
<li>The 18 hits match the team&rsquo;s season-high.</li>
</ul>
Wichita continues the series with the Frisco RoughRiders on July 23 at 7:05 PM on Wet Nose Wednesday, presented by Quantum Credit Union. Bring your dogs to the ballpark and enjoy some baseball under the summertime lights! 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 pound 18 hits in rout of RoughRiders

CHICAGO (AP) — Kansas City’s Rich Hill seemed a bit rusty in his return to the majors as baseball’s oldest active player on Tuesday night.

His Royals teammates didn’t make the 45-year-old left-hander’s start against the Cubs any easier.

Hill gave up three runs and six hits over five innings in his first major league appearance since last September with Boston. He threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one before Jonathan Bowlan took over for the sixth with Chicago leading 3-0.

Hill labored in the second inning when he threw 31 pitches and allowed two unearned runs as the Royals let him down defensively and Chicago took a 2-0 lead.

After Dansby Swanson led off the inning with a single, third baseman Nick Loftin dropped Ian Happ’s sharp grounder on a potential double-play ball. First baseman Salvador Perez then thew out Happ at second on Justin Turner’s grounder, but bobbled Jonathan India’s return throw on what should have been a double play.

Matt Shaw had a run-scoring infield single and Nico Hoerner drove in one on a fielder’s choice.

Pete Crow-Armstrong drove in the final run against Hill in the fifth, on a double lined over right-fielder Jac Caglianone.

The Cubs also stole four bases off Hill, including a double steal by Turner and Shaw in the second,.

Hill was selected from Triple-A Omaha before the game. In corresponding moves, the Royals optioned right-hander Andrew Hoffman to Omaha and designated outfielder Tyler Gentry for assignment.

Hill’s start at Wrigley Field marked the debut of his 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.

Hill became the oldest player to start a major league game since May 27, 2012, when lefty Jamie Moyer tossed his final game with Colorado at age 49.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said there was no pitch-count limitation on Hill, noting before the game the left-hander was “built up” had been in the 90-pitch range at Omaha.

“Well, it speaks to his drive, right?” Quatraro said. “He’s played this game forever and clearly he’s not doing it for the money or being a big leaguer. He’s doing it because he loves it and because he can still be good at it.”

At 45 years and 133 days, Hill became the oldest player in Royals history, passing Hall-of-Fame right-hander Gaylord Perry, who appeared in two games with Kansas City in 1983 after he turned 45.

The 6-foot-5 Hill began his career with the Cubs, making his big-league debut with a one-inning relief appearance against the Florida Marlins on June 15, 2005. He gave up two runs and three hits.

Hill had been at Omaha after signing a minor-league free-agent deal with the Royals in May. He was 4-4 with a 5.36 ERA in nine starts at Omaha.

A Boston native, Hill appeared in four games last season for the Red Sox.

He made 11 postseason starts during his four years with the Los Angeles Dodgers, including two World Series starts in 2017 and another in 2018. He went 11-5 during the latter regular season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753237083056.png" alt="AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh" />
 <figcaption>AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Kansas City’s Rich Hill seemed a bit rusty in his return to the majors as baseball’s oldest active player on Tuesday night.His Royals teammates didn’t make the 45-year-old left-hander’s start against the Cubs any easier.Hill gave up three runs and six hits over five innings in his first major league appearance since last September with Boston. He threw 90 pitches (55 strikes), walking two and striking out one before Jonathan Bowlan took over for the sixth with Chicago leading 3-0.Hill labored in the second inning when he threw 31 pitches and allowed two unearned runs as the Royals let him down defensively and Chicago took a 2-0 lead.After Dansby Swanson led off the inning with a single, third baseman Nick Loftin dropped Ian Happ’s sharp grounder on a potential double-play ball. First baseman Salvador Perez then thew out Happ at second on Justin Turner’s grounder, but bobbled Jonathan India’s return throw on what should have been a double play.Matt Shaw had a run-scoring infield single and Nico Hoerner drove in one on a fielder’s choice.Pete Crow-Armstrong drove in the final run against Hill in the fifth, on a double lined over right-fielder Jac Caglianone.The Cubs also stole four bases off Hill, including a double steal by Turner and Shaw in the second,.Hill was selected from Triple-A Omaha before the game. In corresponding moves, the Royals optioned right-hander Andrew Hoffman to Omaha and designated outfielder Tyler Gentry for assignment.Hill’s start at Wrigley Field marked the debut of his 21st season in the majors and his first with Kansas City. The Royals are his 14th major league team, matching Edwin Jackson’s record.Hill became the oldest player to start a major league game since May 27, 2012, when lefty Jamie Moyer tossed his final game with Colorado at age 49.Royals manager Matt Quatraro said there was no pitch-count limitation on Hill, noting before the game the left-hander was “built up” had been in the 90-pitch range at Omaha.“Well, it speaks to his drive, right?” Quatraro said. “He’s played this game forever and clearly he’s not doing it for the money or being a big leaguer. He’s doing it because he loves it and because he can still be good at it.”At 45 years and 133 days, Hill became the oldest player in Royals history, passing Hall-of-Fame right-hander Gaylord Perry, who appeared in two games with Kansas City in 1983 after he turned 45.The 6-foot-5 Hill began his career with the Cubs, making his big-league debut with a one-inning relief appearance against the Florida Marlins on June 15, 2005. He gave up two runs and three hits.Hill had been at Omaha after signing a minor-league free-agent deal with the Royals in May. He was 4-4 with a 5.36 ERA in nine starts at Omaha.A Boston native, Hill appeared in four games last season for the Red Sox.He made 11 postseason starts during his four years with the Los Angeles Dodgers, including two World Series starts in 2017 and another in 2018. He went 11-5 during the latter regular season.

⚾ Royals' Rich Hill becomes oldest player in majors at 45 with start against Cubs

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-nfl-e5d5d94dbea9bfcbd555ce73e0ce67c4">stood before his players before</a>&nbsp;the start of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-royals-arrowhead-kauffman-stadium-bead0f1904c8d45b8adee2573c0f9a4f">training camp this week</a>, just as the longtime Kansas City Chiefs coach does every year, and impressed upon the reigning AFC champions the importance of urgency.

Patrick Mahomes saw no such need to deliver a message.

Not with the way last season ended with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-2025-eagles-chiefs-score-e2ff209c074a00a6faff39750ff048f8">a lopsided loss to the Eagles</a>&nbsp;in the Super Bowl.

“I think enough was spoken after that game,” the two-time MVP quarterback said. “But I think when you go back to OTAs and back to minicamp and stuff like that, the guys had that mindset. You could tell by the pep in their step and just in the little talks that guys have throughout the team. I don’t think anything really needs to be said when you get beat like that.

“Everybody knows,” Mahomes said, “that we’ve got to be better.”

That underscores the level of expectations in Kansas City these days.

The Chiefs still finished 15-2, tied with the Lions for the best record in the NFL, and won their ninth consecutive AFC West title by four games over the second-place Chargers. With the benefit of home-field advantage, the Chiefs rolled past Houston and narrowly beat Buffalo in the playoffs to reach the Super Bowl with a chance for an historic three-peat.

Yet the game in New Orleans last February seemed over before it even began.

Philadelphia led 7-0 after the first quarter, scored two more touchdowns in the second and took a 24-0 lead into the break, and then cruised through the second half to a 40-22 victory. It offered the Eagles some modicum of revenge after a loss to Mahomes and Co. in the big game two years earlier, and it left the Chiefs feeling wounded for the first time in years.

“Obviously we didn’t play the way we wanted to play on a national stage. A worldwide stage,” said Mahomes, who was sacked six times by the Eagles and threw two interceptions in the game. “You want to go out there and be better.”

Chiefs general manager Brett Veach spent the offseason trying to fix many of their ills.

He signed 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and drafted Josh Simmons in the first round to address a pressing need for protecting Mahomes’ blind side. He signed Kristian Fulton to solidify the cornerback position, brought in Jerry Tillery to bolster the pass rush, and signed Elijah Mitchell to work alongside Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt in the backfield.

More recently, Veach has taken care of the Chiefs’ own. In the span of a week, Trey Smith set the market for a guard with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-trey-smith-contract-e5eb206475631a54933a321f6271478b">a four-year, $94 million deal</a>&nbsp;and pass rusher George Karlaftis signed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-george-karlaftis-376e276aafc6eb010b699a9f510a707d">a four-year, $93 million extension</a>.

Cornerback Trent McDuffie, who like Karlaftis was a first-round pick in 2022, could be next in line for a big contract.

In the case of those two, every season Karlaftis and McDuffie have played in the NFL has ended in the Super Bowl, with two rings to show for their efforts. But it seems like the one that got away has overshadowed any of the successes.

“We wanted to finish better,” Karlaftis said simply, reflecting on last season. “We just want to finish our season better.”

The work for that began Tuesday amid oppressive heat and humidity at Missouri Western State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753217429978.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes greets fans at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — Andy Reid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-rashee-rice-nfl-e5d5d94dbea9bfcbd555ce73e0ce67c4">stood before his players before</a>&nbsp;the start of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-royals-arrowhead-kauffman-stadium-bead0f1904c8d45b8adee2573c0f9a4f">training camp this week</a>, just as the longtime Kansas City Chiefs coach does every year, and impressed upon the reigning AFC champions the importance of urgency.Patrick Mahomes saw no such need to deliver a message.Not with the way last season ended with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-2025-eagles-chiefs-score-e2ff209c074a00a6faff39750ff048f8">a lopsided loss to the Eagles</a>&nbsp;in the Super Bowl.“I think enough was spoken after that game,” the two-time MVP quarterback said. “But I think when you go back to OTAs and back to minicamp and stuff like that, the guys had that mindset. You could tell by the pep in their step and just in the little talks that guys have throughout the team. I don’t think anything really needs to be said when you get beat like that.“Everybody knows,” Mahomes said, “that we’ve got to be better.”That underscores the level of expectations in Kansas City these days.The Chiefs still finished 15-2, tied with the Lions for the best record in the NFL, and won their ninth consecutive AFC West title by four games over the second-place Chargers. With the benefit of home-field advantage, the Chiefs rolled past Houston and narrowly beat Buffalo in the playoffs to reach the Super Bowl with a chance for an historic three-peat.Yet the game in New Orleans last February seemed over before it even began.Philadelphia led 7-0 after the first quarter, scored two more touchdowns in the second and took a 24-0 lead into the break, and then cruised through the second half to a 40-22 victory. It offered the Eagles some modicum of revenge after a loss to Mahomes and Co. in the big game two years earlier, and it left the Chiefs feeling wounded for the first time in years.“Obviously we didn’t play the way we wanted to play on a national stage. A worldwide stage,” said Mahomes, who was sacked six times by the Eagles and threw two interceptions in the game. “You want to go out there and be better.”Chiefs general manager Brett Veach spent the offseason trying to fix many of their ills.He signed 49ers offensive tackle Jaylon Moore and drafted Josh Simmons in the first round to address a pressing need for protecting Mahomes’ blind side. He signed Kristian Fulton to solidify the cornerback position, brought in Jerry Tillery to bolster the pass rush, and signed Elijah Mitchell to work alongside Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt in the backfield.More recently, Veach has taken care of the Chiefs’ own. In the span of a week, Trey Smith set the market for a guard with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-trey-smith-contract-e5eb206475631a54933a321f6271478b">a four-year, $94 million deal</a>&nbsp;and pass rusher George Karlaftis signed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-george-karlaftis-376e276aafc6eb010b699a9f510a707d">a four-year, $93 million extension</a>.Cornerback Trent McDuffie, who like Karlaftis was a first-round pick in 2022, could be next in line for a big contract.In the case of those two, every season Karlaftis and McDuffie have played in the NFL has ended in the Super Bowl, with two rings to show for their efforts. But it seems like the one that got away has overshadowed any of the successes.“We wanted to finish better,” Karlaftis said simply, reflecting on last season. “We just want to finish our season better.”The work for that began Tuesday amid oppressive heat and humidity at Missouri Western State University.“(The Super Bowl loss) kind of helps you out on some of those extra workouts that you don’t want to do, or some of the different stuff in order to get better for next season, and kind of keeps that in your mind,” Mahomes said.“Now we’re here. We’re here to start over. ‘How can I get better for my teammates? How can I get better for the guys beside me?’ And then go out there and attack so that we can find a way to win that last game, and not lose it.”