SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have released right-hander Ross Stripling and catcher Luke Maile after they opted out of their contracts.

The Royals also said Sunday that right-hander Carlos Hernández was claimed off waivers by Philadelphia. First baseman Nick Pratto and outfielder Nelson Velázquez cleared waivers and were outrighted by the team to Triple-A Omaha.

The 35-year-old Stripling and 34-year-old Maile were in camp on minor league deals.

Stripling played for Oakland last season, going 2-11 with a 6.01 ERA in 22 games, including 14 starts. He is 40-54 with a 4.17 ERA in 248 career games, also playing for the Dodgers, Blue Jays and Giants.

Maile hit .178 with two homers in 55 games for Cincinnati last year. He is a .208 hitter with 21 homers and 113 RBIs in 440 career games, also playing for Tampa Bay, Toronto, Milwaukee and Cleveland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695315090950.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals have released right-hander Ross Stripling and catcher Luke Maile after they opted out of their contracts.The Royals also said Sunday that right-hander Carlos Hernández was claimed off waivers by Philadelphia. First baseman Nick Pratto and outfielder Nelson Velázquez cleared waivers and were outrighted by the team to Triple-A Omaha.The 35-year-old Stripling and 34-year-old Maile were in camp on minor league deals.Stripling played for Oakland last season, going 2-11 with a 6.01 ERA in 22 games, including 14 starts. He is 40-54 with a 4.17 ERA in 248 career games, also playing for the Dodgers, Blue Jays and Giants.Maile hit .178 with two homers in 55 games for Cincinnati last year. He is a .208 hitter with 21 homers and 113 RBIs in 440 career games, also playing for Tampa Bay, Toronto, Milwaukee and Cleveland.

⚾ Royals release right-hander Ross Stripling and catcher Luke Maile

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742782504402.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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NEW ORLEANS, La. --&nbsp;Wichita State stranded 16 runners on base and went just 2-for-17 with runners in scoring position in an 11-5 loss at Tulane on Sunday afternoon at Turchin Stadium. It was a frustrating offensive afternoon for the Shockers (8-15, 1-2), who drew 12 walks and were hit by a pitch four times, but managed only six hits on the day. Tulane (17-7, 2-1) hit four home runs and used 10 pitchers to keep WSU to two hits over the final six innings. The Green Wave surged to a quick 7-1 lead through three innings, knocking out Wichita State starter&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/aaron-arnold/9406" rel="smarttag" rev="9406">Aaron Arnold</a></dfn>&nbsp;(3-1) in the process. Gavin Schulz and Tanner Chun hit back-to-back homers in the bottom of the second and Andrew McKenna doubled in two more runs as part of a four-run third that extended the Tulane lead to six. The Shockers chipped away at the deficit, plating a run in the fourth on a fielder's choice ground out from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/kam-durnin/9177" rel="smarttag" rev="9177">Kam Durnin</a></dfn>&nbsp;and two more in the seventh on a bases-loaded walk from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/gannon-snyder/9192" rel="smarttag" rev="9192">Gannon Snyder</a></dfn>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/ryan-callahan/9175" rel="smarttag" rev="9175">Ryan Callahan</a></dfn>&nbsp;fielder's choice. In the eighth,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/cole-dillon/9411" rel="smarttag" rev="9411">Cole Dillon</a></dfn>&nbsp;was plunked with the bases loaded to force in a run that cut the Tulane lead to 8-5, but closer Michael Lombardi ended the inning with a strikeout and then pitched around a leadoff walk in the ninth to earn his second consecutive save and seventh of the season overall. Tulane put the game out of reach in the bottom of the eighth with a pair of homers, getting a two-run shot from Lombardi and a solo blast off the bat of James Agabedis for the final margin. Julius Ejike-Charles (1-0) picked up the win in relief for the Green Wave, working a scoreless inning out of the bullpen. Only one of the 10 Tulane pitchers did not walk a batter. Snyder put together a solid offensive day to spearhead Wichita State's attack, finishing with two hits and two walks. Five different Shockers walked multiple times, while Dillon was hit twice.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/tyler-dobbs/9176" rel="smarttag" rev="9176">Tyler Dobbs</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/caleb-anderson/9173" rel="smarttag" rev="9173">Caleb Anderson</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/nick-potter/9404" rel="smarttag" rev="9404">Nick Potter</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/baseball/roster/hunter-holmes/9181" rel="smarttag" rev="9181">Hunter Holmes</a></dfn>&nbsp;all had scoreless appearances out of the WSU bullpen. The Shockers are back in action on Tuesday night at Oklahoma State. First pitch from Stillwater is scheduled for 6:00 pm CT.</div>

⚾ Shockers squander chances in finale loss

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742782396348.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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SAN ANTONIO &ndash;&nbsp;A career-high seven RBIs from senior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/camryn-compton/9311" rel="smarttag" rev="9311">Camryn Compton</a></dfn>&nbsp;powered Wichita State to a 13-5 win over the UTSA Roadrunners on Sunday afternoon at Roadrunner Field. &nbsp; The win clinched the regular season series win for the Shockers (15-15, 4-5) over UTSA (14-16, 2-7). &nbsp; In the top of the first, the first three Shockers reached base, and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/taylor-sedlacek/9318" rel="smarttag" rev="9318">Taylor Sedlacek</a></dfn>&nbsp;opened the scoring with a sacrifice fly that brought&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/ellee-eck/9322" rel="smarttag" rev="9322">Ellee Eck</a></dfn>&nbsp;home.&nbsp; &nbsp; Immediately after, Compton belted the first of two home runs on a no-doubt, three-run home run over the wall in center to quadruple the Shocker lead to 4-0. Later,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/krystin-nelson/9315" rel="smarttag" rev="9315">Krystin Nelson</a></dfn>&nbsp;capped off the fantastic start for Wichita State with an RBI single through the left side of the infield, making it a 5-0 lead for WSU. &nbsp; UTSA answered the big inning with a big hit of their own, a two-run homer to center, making it a 5-2 score through the first inning. &nbsp; The Shockers responded with two sacrifice flies in the second, one from Compton and one from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/gabby-scott/9324" rel="smarttag" rev="9324">Gabby Scott</a></dfn>&nbsp;to take a 7-2 lead. &nbsp; In the third, the Shocker onslaught continued as&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/9314" rel="smarttag" rev="9314">Lauren Lucas</a></dfn>&nbsp;drove in a run on a bloop single and then Compton delivered again, blasting another three-run home run, giving WSU an 11-2 lead through the top of the third. &nbsp; Moving to the bottom half, UTSA quickly loaded the bases against Shocker starter&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/ryley-nihart/9325" rel="smarttag" rev="9325">Ryley Nihart</a></dfn>, scoring three runs to cut the Shocker lead to 11-5. &nbsp; In the fifth, Sedlacek immediately re-extended the Shocker advantage to eight runs with a monster two-run home run to right-center field, giving WSU a 13-5 lead. &nbsp; Needing three outs to end the game, Nihart stranded a leadoff walk to wrap the game up in five innings. &nbsp; All but one Shocker starter recorded a hit with Lucas going 3-for-4 with a double and her RBI. Compton's two home runs were a career-best, while her seven RBIs were the most by any Shocker in a single game this season. &nbsp; Next Up The Shockers return home to face the Central Arkansas Bears on March 26 at 5:00 PM at Wilkins Stadium.</div>

🥎 WSU clinches series win at UTSA

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742782256611.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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WACO, Texas &ndash;&nbsp;K-State's six-game winning streak came to an end Sunday afternoon, as Baylor used a six-run fifth inning to defeat the Wildcats, 19-4, in seven innings at Baylor Ballpark. The Bears registered 17 hits on their way to moving to 16-7 and 2-4 in league action, handing the Cats (15-8, 5-1 Big 12) their first conference loss of the season. "Disappointing day, but a really good road series win," 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>&nbsp;said. "I thought we had a good enough start from [<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/lincoln-sheffield/12332" rel="smarttag" rev="12332">Lincoln Sheffield</a></dfn>] to be able to win and our offense did great job driving up their starters' pitch count and getting him out of the game, but unfortunately, they won the battle of the bullpen." Bears' starter Carson Bailey held the Cats to two earned runs in his 4 1/3 innings of work, striking out seven of the 19 batters he faced. Grayson Murry (2-0) was awarded the victory in relief of Bailey. &nbsp; Baylor spotted&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/lincoln-sheffield/12332" rel="smarttag" rev="12332">Lincoln Sheffield</a></dfn>&nbsp;(4-2) for five earned runs, as the left-hander suffered his first loss since February 17 against Coastal Carolina. He finished his sixth consecutive start with four strikeouts and a walk, while allowing eight hits. Six different players recorded a hit for K-State, led by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/keegan-o-connor/12317" rel="smarttag" rev="12317">Keegan O'Connor</a></dfn>&nbsp;(2-for-3), while&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/bear-madliak/12309" rel="smarttag" rev="12309">Bear Madliak</a></dfn>&nbsp;each drove in a pair of runs batted in. HOW IT HAPPENED After two scoreless frames, Baylor broke through with a 2-0 edge, led by Wesley Jordan's RBI single up the middle. &nbsp;With runners on second and third, Martin threw out a runner at home before Sheffield recorded his fourth strikeout to minimize the damage. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/aj-evasco/12312" rel="smarttag" rev="12312">AJ Evasco</a></dfn>&nbsp;and O'Connor strung together a pair of singles before both moving to scoring position after&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;walked. With two outs, catcher&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/bear-madliak/12309" rel="smarttag" rev="12309">Bear Madliak</a></dfn>&nbsp;delivered a two-out RBI single to left center to score Evasco and O'Connor. Baylor made its first call to the pen in the fifth after Bailey issued a walk to&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/shintaro-inoue/12311" rel="smarttag" rev="12311">Shintaro Inoue</a></dfn>&nbsp;with one out, bringing Murry to the hill. The right-handed reliever fanned two straight batters to keep game tied, 2-2. Jordan led off the bottom of the inning with a solo shot to left field to ignite the Bears' six-run inning that included a bases-clearing double from JJ Kennett. &nbsp;Trailing 8-2,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;closed the gap to four, as the Cats' first baseman belted a two-run homer into right-center. Baylor answered with 11 unanswered runs in the sixth. INSIDE THE BOX
<ul>
<li>K-State scored four runs on seven hits with one error and four left on base.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Baylor scored 19 runs on 16 hits with no errors and nine left on base.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Six different players had hits for K-State, led by two from O'Connor.</li>
<li>K-State had three extra-base hits, with doubles from O'Connor and English and a homer by Dardar.</li>
<li>The Bears scored 17 runs between the fifth and sixth innings.</li>
<li>Baylor sent 17 to the plate and scored 11 runs in the fifth inning.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Sheffield (4-2) suffered his second loss of the year after allowing five runs and eight hits with two walks and four strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings of work.</li>
<li>Baylor was 13-for-23 with runners on and 9-for-15 with runners in scoring position.</li>
<li>Jordan and Riebock had three hits, while Jordan and Simmons each homered for Baylor.</li>
</ul>
TEAM NOTES
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<li>Baylor leads the all-time series 56-35, with a 52-29 advantage in Big 12 games.</li>
<li>In games played in Waco, K-State is 13-34 with five wins coming in the last 10 contests.</li>
<li>K-State is 5-5 when opponents score first.</li>
<li>K-State has homered in seven straight games and in 18 of its 23 games overall.</li>
<li>The Cats have 41 homers on the season, rank second overall in the Big 12.</li>
<li>K-State hit a program-record 89 home runs in 2021.</li>
</ul>
PLAYER NOTES
<ul>
<li>Evasco and O'Connor stretched their hitting streaks out to 14 and 13 &ndash; first- and second-best streaks on the team</li>
<li>Dardar belted his fourth homer of the season.</li>
<li>O'Connor is third on the team with seven multi-hit games, including six in his last 10 games.</li>
</ul>
UP NEXT The Wildcats return to Tointon Family Stadium Tuesday night to host Nebraska (10-13, 2-7 Big Ten), scheduled for a 6 p.m. first pitch. K-State baseball season and single-game tickets are now available, and can be purchased by visiting&nbsp;<a name="_Hlk192492882"></a>KStateSports.com, call 1-800-221-CATS (2287), or stopping by the K-State Athletics Ticket Office in Bramlage Coliseum.</div>

⚾ 'Cats drop series finale in Waco

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742782094858.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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TEMPE, Ariz. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas baseball dropped the series finale against Arizona State by a score of 7-6 on Sunday afternoon at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. A walk-off two-run home run by Nu'u Contrades handed Kansas its first series loss of the season. &nbsp; In the top of the ninth, Kansas was trailing by a run and down to its final out when&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tommy-barth/16141" rel="smarttag" rev="16141">Tommy Barth</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit a go-ahead two-run homer to take a 6-5 lead. That was the third lead of the day for Kansas after a 2-0 lead and a 4-3 advantage, but Arizona State came back all three times to ultimately win the game. &nbsp; Redshirt sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/manning-west/16160" rel="smarttag" rev="16160">Manning West</a></dfn>&nbsp;got the start for Kansas and went 3.1 innings. He allowed three runs, two earned, on four hits, four walks and three strikeouts.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dariel-osoria/16146" rel="smarttag" rev="16146">Dariel Osoria</a></dfn>&nbsp;had a career-high four hits, while&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-ballinger/16147" rel="smarttag" rev="16147">Brady Ballinger</a></dfn>&nbsp;and Barth each had two hits. &nbsp; HOW IT HAPPENED &bull; Kansas took an early lead on Sunday afternoon with a pair of runs in the first inning. The Jayhawks had three consecutive hits with one out. Osoria was the third of those three hits and drove in the first run on an RBI single to center field.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135" rel="smarttag" rev="16135">Brady Counsell</a></dfn>&nbsp;provided the second run with a sacrifice fly. &bull; Arizona State (15-8, 3-2 Big 12) got a run back in the second inning on a passed ball to make it a 2-1 Kansas lead. &bull; The Sun Devils were able to take a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the fourth on a two-run homer by Isaiah Jackson. &bull; The Jayhawks were able to get the lead back in the sixth inning. Osoria scored on a wild pitch to tie the game and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-wisdom/16131" rel="smarttag" rev="16131">Ty Wisdom</a></dfn>&nbsp;had a pinch-hit RBI fielder's choice to score Barth. That gave Kansas a 4-3 advantage. &bull; Arizona State answered back in the bottom of the seventh with two runs to take the lead. Jacob Tobias hit a two-run double to the gap in left-center field to give the Sun Devils a 5-4 edge. &bull; Kansas had an opportunity to score in the eighth inning but left two runners stranded on base. &bull; The Jayhawks did capitalize in the top of the ninth with a runner on base. Osoria singled with one out and Counsell hit a fielder's choice to be on first base with two outs. Barth took a 1-1 pitch the opposite way to right field for a go-ahead, two-run homer and a 6-5 lead. &bull; The Sun Devils responded by getting a leadoff single and then on the seventh pitch of the at-bat Contrades drove one out to right field to win it. &nbsp; PITCHERS OF RECORD Win: Lucas Kelly (3-0) Final line: 1.0 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 0 BB, 2 SO Loss:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/eric-lin/16158" rel="smarttag" rev="16158">Eric Lin</a></dfn>&nbsp;(1-2) Final line: 0.2 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 0 BB, 0 SO SOCIAL POST OF THE GAME
<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=%40KUBaseball&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=1903952813748789273&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F3%2F23%2Fbaseball-kansas-suffers-walk-off-7-6-loss-in-series-finale-at-arizona-state.aspx&amp;sessionId=ff2eef82a0b4fd8a2c33a31f918838013ed18d16&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1903952813748789273"></iframe></div>
&nbsp; QUOTABLES &amp; NOTABLES "Great baseball game and two teams that for the most part played really well. We had some opportunities where you wish we could have punched it through and widened the gap when we took the lead, but they could say the same thing when they had the lead. Usually games like this it just comes down to whoever hits last. Tommy hammered the ball to right and then their guy did the same thing. The ball really just started carrying right at the end there to right field. It was kind of dead to right-center and right field all day and then in the ninth it kind of opened up. This is a really good team we played and we certainly have done a lot of things well, but like I say every game and believe, we still have a long way to go. We'll be ready to get after it Tuesday." &ndash; Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/dan-fitzgerald/871" rel="smarttag" rev="871">Dan Fitzgerald</a></dfn> &nbsp; &bull; Kansas suffered its first series loss of the season. &bull; Barth hit his fifth home run of the season to put Kansas ahead going into the bottom of the ninth. &bull; Osoria had a career-high four hits. He finished the game 4-for-5 with a RBI and run scored. &bull; Brooks has reached base safely in 13 consecutive games. He drew three walks in the game. &bull; Counsell extended his on-base streak to 13 games. &bull;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jackson-hauge/16155" rel="smarttag" rev="16155">Jackson Hauge</a></dfn>&nbsp;has a 10-game on-base streak. &nbsp; UP NEXT Kansas returns home to play a two-game midweek series against St. Thomas on Tuesday and Wednesday. First pitch on Tuesday is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT and Wednesday is set for 3 p.m. CT. Both games will be broadcast on ESPN+ and fans can purchase tickets by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=BSB&amp;linkID=kansas&amp;shopperContext=&amp;caller=&amp;appCode=&amp;utm_source=navbar&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=navbar_website">here</a>.</div>

⚾ Sun Devils walk-off Jayhawks in series finale

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742781939543.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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SALT LAKE CITY, Utah&nbsp;&ndash; In the final game of the three-day series against Utah, Kansas was able to walk away with a nine-inning 5-4 victory. With the win, Kansas improved to 14-12 overall and 3-3 in conference play. Utah fell to 10-23 overall and 2-4 in Big 12 play. "We focused on bringing competitive energy today. Our mental toughness was a game changer, and we had a no-quit attitude," said Kansas head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/jennifer-mcfalls/526" rel="smarttag" rev="526">Jennifer McFalls</a></dfn>. "I'm really proud of the way we fought, especially our pitching staff.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/katie-brooks/6906" rel="smarttag" rev="6906">Katie Brooks</a></dfn>&nbsp;had a great start, Diggs (<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kennedy-diggs/15857" rel="smarttag" rev="15857">Kennedy Diggs</a></dfn>) kept them off balance, and K Wash (<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kaelee-washington/15853" rel="smarttag" rev="15853">Kaelee Washington</a></dfn>) closed it out. It's reassuring to have a pitching staff we can depend on. While we didn't win the series, the most important thing is we responded well today, and now we look ahead to a big week." Kansas started Brooks in the circle, recording the first out and a strikeout before junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/aynslee-linduff/6968" rel="smarttag" rev="6968">Aynslee Linduff</a></dfn>&nbsp;secured the final out in right field. The Jayhawks opened the second inning with a single from junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/campbell-bagshaw/6868" rel="smarttag" rev="6868">Campbell Bagshaw</a></dfn>. A hard-hit ball by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/natalie-marshall/6919" rel="smarttag" rev="6919">Natalie Marshall</a></dfn>&nbsp;moved Bagshaw into scoring position, and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/september-flanagan/6890" rel="smarttag" rev="6890">September Flanagan</a></dfn>&nbsp;followed with a solid hit to left field, driving Bagshaw home to give Kansas the early lead at 1-0. Kansas kept the Utes off the bases through the second inning and showed a gritty half-inning in the top of the third, by scoring two runs which came from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/aynslee-linduff/6968" rel="smarttag" rev="6968">Aynslee Linduff</a></dfn>&nbsp;who singled down the left field line, driving in Presely Limbaugh. Later in the inning, Linduff advanced to third and scored on a rundown involving&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/natalie-marshall/6919" rel="smarttag" rev="6919">Natalie Marshall</a></dfn>, extending Kansas' lead to 3-0 heading into the bottom of the third. As in the previous two matchups, the Utes fought back, overcoming a three-run deficit to tie the game, keeping Kansas from holding onto its early lead through the fifth inning. In the top of the sixth inning, the Jayhawks pushed to answer back, with Flanagan drawing a walk and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/karsen-griggs/15854" rel="smarttag" rev="15854">Karsen Griggs</a></dfn>&nbsp;hitting a standup-up double, setting up Kansas in a great position to earn a lead once again. Senior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/candace-yingling/15862" rel="smarttag" rev="15862">Candace Yingling</a></dfn>&nbsp;made a key appearance at the plate as a pinch hitter, delivering a hard-hit grounder down the third base line. The play allowed Flanagan to cross the plate, regaining the lead for Kansas at 4-3. <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/hailey-cripe/6977" rel="smarttag" rev="6977">Hailey Cripe</a></dfn>&nbsp;got the Jayhawks started with a 10-pitch at-bat, finally placing a hit through the second baseline. However, Utah quickly retired Kansas, leaving the game's outcome in the hands of the Jayhawks' defense. Utah found an answer to tie the game, and both teams battled through nine innings. In the top of the ninth, Kansas began to rally. With the most consistent hitters, Limbaugh and Linduff, reaching base, Cripe, who had been solid all game, delivered an RBI single to center field, scoring Limbaugh and giving Kansas a 5-4 lead. The Jayhawks remained strong through nine innings, holding the Utes scoreless and securing their first win of the series with a final score of 5-4. &nbsp; UP NEXT Kansas will next hit to road to play at Missouri on Wednesday, March 26, in Columbia, Missouri. The contest from Mizzou Softball Stadium will start at 8 p.m. Central and the game will be televised on ESPNU. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Pitchers of Record Win:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kennedy-diggs/15857" rel="smarttag" rev="15857">Kennedy Diggs</a></dfn> Line: 4.1 IP, 3 H,&nbsp; 1 R, 2 BB, 2 SO Save:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/kaelee-washington/15853" rel="smarttag" rev="15853">Kaelee Washington</a></dfn> Line: 1 IP, 1 H,&nbsp; 0 R, 0 BB, 1 SO Loss: Hailey Maestretti Line: 3.1 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 0 BB, 2&nbsp; SO &nbsp;
<h3>Up Next Kansas concludes its series with Utah and faces a quick turnaround as they prepare to take on Border Showdown rival Missouri at home on Wednesday, March 26, at 8:00 p.m. CT.</h3>
&nbsp; &nbsp; Notables
<ul>
<li>Freshman&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/karsen-griggs/15854" rel="smarttag" rev="15854">Karsen Griggs</a></dfn>&nbsp;recorded her second double of the season</li>
<li>Junior&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/aynslee-linduff/6968" rel="smarttag" rev="6968">Aynslee Linduff</a></dfn>&nbsp;recorded five putouts, the most for Linduff in a single game this season</li>
<li><dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/bailey-amezcua/15852" rel="smarttag" rev="15852">Bailey Amezcua</a></dfn>&nbsp;recorded two hits against Utah, matching her season-high for hits in a single game.</li>
</ul></div>

🥎 KU picks up win in series finale at Utah

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Temira Poindexter&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903901655135088762" target="_blank">hit a corner 3-pointer</a>&nbsp;with 56 seconds left in overtime — her eighth 3 of the game — and fifth-seeded Kansas State dodged four misses by No. 4 seed Kentucky in the closing seconds&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903903730606456961" target="_blank">to beat the host Wildcats 80-79</a>&nbsp;in the second round of the women’s NCAA Tournament on Sunday.

Kentucky star Georgia Amoore missed a jumper with 21 seconds left, a 3-pointer with 16 seconds remaining and then a baseline layup at the buzzer. Amelia Haslett also missed a 3 that would have put Kentucky ahead at Rupp Arena.

Poindexter missed her first six shots but finished 8 of 15 beyond the arc to score 24 points. Serena Sundell added 19 points, including a turnaround jumper with 8 seconds left to force overtime, and Ayoka Lee scored 16.

Kansas State (28-7) advanced to face either JuJu Watkins and top-seeded Southern California or No. 9 seed Mississippi State in the Sweet 16 in Spokane, Washington.

Clara Strack led Kentucky (23-8) with 22 points. Amoore scored 18 points on 7-of-23 shooting.

Amoore hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to give Kentucky a 69-67 lead with 32 seconds left in regulation. After Sundell’s basket, Kentucky’s Dazia Lawrence could not get a clean look before time expired.

Kansas State: Sundell had 11 points in the first quarter to steady the visiting Wildcats after Kentucky jumped out to an early 7-0 lead.

Kentucky: The host Wildcats built small leads but could never extend their advantage to double digits.

Key rebounded her own missed jumper to make a layup that gave Kentucky a 66-61 lead with 2:11 to play. Kansas State responded with 3-pointers by Jaelyn Glenn and then Poindexter in a 40-second span.

Kentucky came in averaging seven blocks per game, but it was Kansas State denying shots with 13 blocks, including two on 3-point attempts in the second quarter. Those fueled a 12-3 run that propelled Kansas State to a 33-31 halftime lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742761115250.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Temira Poindexter&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903901655135088762" target="_blank">hit a corner 3-pointer</a>&nbsp;with 56 seconds left in overtime — her eighth 3 of the game — and fifth-seeded Kansas State dodged four misses by No. 4 seed Kentucky in the closing seconds&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MarchMadnessWBB/status/1903903730606456961" target="_blank">to beat the host Wildcats 80-79</a>&nbsp;in the second round of the women’s NCAA Tournament on Sunday.Kentucky star Georgia Amoore missed a jumper with 21 seconds left, a 3-pointer with 16 seconds remaining and then a baseline layup at the buzzer. Amelia Haslett also missed a 3 that would have put Kentucky ahead at Rupp Arena.Poindexter missed her first six shots but finished 8 of 15 beyond the arc to score 24 points. Serena Sundell added 19 points, including a turnaround jumper with 8 seconds left to force overtime, and Ayoka Lee scored 16.Kansas State (28-7) advanced to face either JuJu Watkins and top-seeded Southern California or No. 9 seed Mississippi State in the Sweet 16 in Spokane, Washington.Clara Strack led Kentucky (23-8) with 22 points. Amoore scored 18 points on 7-of-23 shooting.Amoore hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to give Kentucky a 69-67 lead with 32 seconds left in regulation. After Sundell’s basket, Kentucky’s Dazia Lawrence could not get a clean look before time expired.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Kansas State: Sundell had 11 points in the first quarter to steady the visiting Wildcats after Kentucky jumped out to an early 7-0 lead.Kentucky: The host Wildcats built small leads but could never extend their advantage to double digits.<h2>Key moment</h2>Key rebounded her own missed jumper to make a layup that gave Kentucky a 66-61 lead with 2:11 to play. Kansas State responded with 3-pointers by Jaelyn Glenn and then Poindexter in a 40-second span.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kentucky came in averaging seven blocks per game, but it was Kansas State denying shots with 13 blocks, including two on 3-point attempts in the second quarter. Those fueled a 12-3 run that propelled Kansas State to a 33-31 halftime lead.<h2>Up next</h2>

🏀 K-State women are Sweet 16 bound for first time since 2002

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Penn State’s Carter Starocci won an unprecedented fifth national title and Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson stunned Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson 5-4 in the heavyweight final Saturday night at the NCAA men’s wrestling championships with President Donald Trump in attendance.

Hendrickson, a transfer from Air Force, trailed in the last match of the evening until scoring on a takedown in the final minute — the only takedown Steveson allowed all season.

Hendrickson saluted Trump after his victory. With a United States flag draped over his shoulders, he then walked over and shook Trump’s hand and hugged him as part of his celebration. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ncaa-wrestling-championships-sports-trips-8f68a03e4c6926ef2e159e67d70a8466">attended the event, just as he did as a candidate in 2023</a>&nbsp;when the tournament was in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

“It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything,” an emotional Hendrickson said moments after the win.

Minnesota’s Steveson, seeking his third national title, was on a 70-match win streak. The 2021 and 2022 national champion retired at the end of the 2022 event, but returned this year after stints in World Wrestling Entertainment and the National Football League.

Steveson entered the third period with a 3-2 lead before&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NCAAWrestling/status/1903634014193287509" target="_blank">giving up the takedown with about 20 seconds remaining</a>. The crowd erupted when Hendrickson scored and as time expired.

Starocci’s Nittany Lions claimed their third four-peat, running away from the field to claim their 12th men’s Division I men’s wrestling national title under coach Cael Sanderson.

Starocci defeated Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen 4-3 in the 184-pound final. Keckeisen was the defending champion in the class.

“It means a lot to me, but as for me — I never want to down play the moment — but I mean, it’s always cool, but one thing that Coach Cael really instills in us, this is all just preparation for the next thing.”

Penn State, just the second program to have 10 All-Americans in one season, scored 177 points to top its record from last year. The Nittany Lions picked up another championship when Mitchell Mesenbrink won the 165 final 8-2 over Iowa’s Michael Caliendo. Mesenbrink finished unbeaten this season after losing in the national final a year ago.

Nebraska finished second with 117 points and closed out it’s best tournament ever with Ridge Lovett winning at 149 and Antrell Taylor at 157. Oklahoma State finished third with 102.5 points and Iowa was fourth with 81.

North Carolina State freshman Vincent Robinson defeated Oklahoma State’s Troy Spratley 2-1 at 125, and Illinois’ Lucas Byrd defeated Iowa’s Drake Ayala 3-2 at 133.

At 141, Ohio State’s Jesse Mendez rallied from a 5-0 deficit to beat Nebraska’s Brock Hardy 12-9 and claim his second straight national title. Hardy was the No. 1 seed.

At 149, Lovett toppled the defending champion, Virginia Tech’s Caleb Henson, 1-0. Lovett became the first Cornhusker national champion since Jordan Burroughs in 2011.

Nebraska’s Taylor hung on to defeat Purdue’s Joey Blaze 4-2.

Oklahoma State’s Dean Hamiti defeated Missouri’s Keegan O’Toole 4-1 in overtime to win at 174. O’Toole, the national champ at 165 in 2022 and 2023, challenged a takedown during regulation that was reversed and allowed him to get to overtime. In sudden victory, another takedown was challenged, but this time, it was upheld, and Hamiti celebrated with first-year coach David Taylor.

Iowa’s Stephen Buchanan defeated Penn State’s Josh Barr 5-2 in the 197 final. He’s been an All-American at Wyoming, Oklahoma and now Iowa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742783143243.png" alt="Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson, right, reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson during a 285-pound match in the finals at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)" />
 <figcaption>Oklahoma State's Wyatt Hendrickson, right, reacts after defeating Minnesota's Gable Steveson during a 285-pound match in the finals at the NCAA wrestling championship, Saturday, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Penn State’s Carter Starocci won an unprecedented fifth national title and Oklahoma State’s Wyatt Hendrickson stunned Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson 5-4 in the heavyweight final Saturday night at the NCAA men’s wrestling championships with President Donald Trump in attendance.Hendrickson, a transfer from Air Force, trailed in the last match of the evening until scoring on a takedown in the final minute — the only takedown Steveson allowed all season.Hendrickson saluted Trump after his victory. With a United States flag draped over his shoulders, he then walked over and shook Trump’s hand and hugged him as part of his celebration. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ncaa-wrestling-championships-sports-trips-8f68a03e4c6926ef2e159e67d70a8466">attended the event, just as he did as a candidate in 2023</a>&nbsp;when the tournament was in Tulsa, Oklahoma.“It’s bigger than worlds, Olympics, anything,” an emotional Hendrickson said moments after the win.Minnesota’s Steveson, seeking his third national title, was on a 70-match win streak. The 2021 and 2022 national champion retired at the end of the 2022 event, but returned this year after stints in World Wrestling Entertainment and the National Football League.Steveson entered the third period with a 3-2 lead before&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/NCAAWrestling/status/1903634014193287509" target="_blank">giving up the takedown with about 20 seconds remaining</a>. The crowd erupted when Hendrickson scored and as time expired.Starocci’s Nittany Lions claimed their third four-peat, running away from the field to claim their 12th men’s Division I men’s wrestling national title under coach Cael Sanderson.Starocci defeated Northern Iowa’s Parker Keckeisen 4-3 in the 184-pound final. Keckeisen was the defending champion in the class.Starocci kept it all in perspective.“It means a lot to me, but as for me — I never want to down play the moment — but I mean, it’s always cool, but one thing that Coach Cael really instills in us, this is all just preparation for the next thing.”Penn State, just the second program to have 10 All-Americans in one season, scored 177 points to top its record from last year. The Nittany Lions picked up another championship when Mitchell Mesenbrink won the 165 final 8-2 over Iowa’s Michael Caliendo. Mesenbrink finished unbeaten this season after losing in the national final a year ago.Nebraska finished second with 117 points and closed out it’s best tournament ever with Ridge Lovett winning at 149 and Antrell Taylor at 157. Oklahoma State finished third with 102.5 points and Iowa was fourth with 81.North Carolina State freshman Vincent Robinson defeated Oklahoma State’s Troy Spratley 2-1 at 125, and Illinois’ Lucas Byrd defeated Iowa’s Drake Ayala 3-2 at 133.At 141, Ohio State’s Jesse Mendez rallied from a 5-0 deficit to beat Nebraska’s Brock Hardy 12-9 and claim his second straight national title. Hardy was the No. 1 seed.At 149, Lovett toppled the defending champion, Virginia Tech’s Caleb Henson, 1-0. Lovett became the first Cornhusker national champion since Jordan Burroughs in 2011.Nebraska’s Taylor hung on to defeat Purdue’s Joey Blaze 4-2.Oklahoma State’s Dean Hamiti defeated Missouri’s Keegan O’Toole 4-1 in overtime to win at 174. O’Toole, the national champ at 165 in 2022 and 2023, challenged a takedown during regulation that was reversed and allowed him to get to overtime. In sudden victory, another takedown was challenged, but this time, it was upheld, and Hamiti celebrated with first-year coach David Taylor.Iowa’s Stephen Buchanan defeated Penn State’s Josh Barr 5-2 in the 197 final. He’s been an All-American at Wyoming, Oklahoma and now Iowa.

🤼‍♂️ Newton native Wyatt Hendrickson wins NCAA wrestling title

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals confirmed Saturday they have acquired outfielder Mark Canha from the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Royals will send a player to be named later or cash to the Brewers for Canha, 36.

Canha, who can also play first base, was with the Brewers on a minor league deal and had the right to opt out of his contract on Saturday. He was 2-for-23 with one homer this spring.

Canha made his major league debut with Oakland in 2015, his first of seven seasons with the A’s. He has also played for the New York Mets, Detroit and San Francisco. He has a .249 career batting average with 120 homers, including a career-high 26 with Oakland in 2019.

Canha played a combined 125 games with Detroit and San Francisco in 2024 and hit .242 with seven homers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695315090950.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals confirmed Saturday they have acquired outfielder Mark Canha from the Milwaukee Brewers.The Royals will send a player to be named later or cash to the Brewers for Canha, 36.Canha, who can also play first base, was with the Brewers on a minor league deal and had the right to opt out of his contract on Saturday. He was 2-for-23 with one homer this spring.Canha made his major league debut with Oakland in 2015, his first of seven seasons with the A’s. He has also played for the New York Mets, Detroit and San Francisco. He has a .249 career batting average with 120 homers, including a career-high 26 with Oakland in 2019.Canha played a combined 125 games with Detroit and San Francisco in 2024 and hit .242 with seven homers.

⚾ Royals acquire veteran outfielder Mark Canha from Brewers for player to be named later or cash

<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/championships/sports/mbkb/div1/index">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a>

<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">CLICK HERE FOR RADIO STREAM</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/espnplus/schedule/_/type/upcoming/categoryId/cd70a58e-a830-330c-93ed-52360b51b632/channel/ESPN_PLUS/startDate/20250322">CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO STREAM ($)</a>

Game 1 - No. 17 Connors State (Okla.)&nbsp; 80, No. 16 John A. Logan (Ill.) 75

Game 2 - No. 15 Triton (Ill.) 58, No. 18 Columbia State (Tenn.) 55

Game 3 - No. 20 Monroe (NY) 79, vs. No. 13 Chipola (Fla.) 78 - OT

Game 4 - No. 14 Vincennes (Ind.) 69,&nbsp;No. 19 Three Rivers (Mo.) 51

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742176424420.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NJCAA" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NJCAA</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.njcaa.org/championships/sports/mbkb/div1/index">TOURNAMENT CENTRAL</a><a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">CLICK HERE FOR RADIO STREAM</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.espn.com/espnplus/schedule/_/type/upcoming/categoryId/cd70a58e-a830-330c-93ed-52360b51b632/channel/ESPN_PLUS/startDate/20250322">CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO STREAM ($)</a>Game 1 - No. 17 Connors State (Okla.)&nbsp; 80, No. 16 John A. Logan (Ill.) 75Game 2 - No. 15 Triton (Ill.) 58, No. 18 Columbia State (Tenn.) 55Game 3 - No. 20 Monroe (NY) 79, vs. No. 13 Chipola (Fla.) 78 - OTGame 4 - No. 14 Vincennes (Ind.) 69,&nbsp;No. 19 Three Rivers (Mo.) 51

🏀 NJCAA Tournament: Day 1 schedule & results

NEW YORK (AP) —George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.

Foreman's family&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHe5UtIJ4IQ/" target="_blank">announced his death on social media</a>.

“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose," his family wrote.

A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.

Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.

He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer's two heavyweight belts.

Foreman's transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.

He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742612515555.jpeg" alt="Heavyweight boxer George Foreman flexes his muscles after weighing in at 260 pounds for his upcoming fight against Shannon Briggs at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort in Atlantic City., N.J., Thursday, Nov. 20, 1997. ((AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)" />
 <figcaption>Heavyweight boxer George Foreman flexes his muscles after weighing in at 260 pounds for his upcoming fight against Shannon Briggs at the Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort in Atlantic City., N.J., Thursday, Nov. 20, 1997. ((AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —George Foreman, the fearsome heavyweight who lost the “Rumble in the Jungle” to Muhammad Ali before his inspiring second act as a 45-year-old champion and a successful businessman, died Friday night. He was 76.Foreman's family&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHe5UtIJ4IQ/" target="_blank">announced his death on social media</a>.“A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand- and great-grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility and purpose," his family wrote.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742612646985.jpeg" alt="George Foreman (AP Photo, file)" />
 <figcaption>George Foreman (AP Photo, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>A native Texan, Foreman began his boxing career as an Olympic gold medalist who inspired fear as he climbed to the peak of the heavyweight division by stopping Joe Frazier in 1973. His formidable aura evaporated only a year later when Ali pulled off one of the most audacious victories in boxing history in Zaire, baiting and taunting Foreman into losing his belt in one of the greatest fights ever staged.Foreman left the sport a few years later, but returned after a 10-year absence and a self-described religious awakening.He then pulled off one of the most spectacular knockouts in boxing history in 1994, flooring Michael Moorer — 19 years his junior — with one perfect combination to claim Moorer's two heavyweight belts.Foreman's transformation into an inspirational figure was complete, and he fought only four more times before moving onto his next career as a genial businessman, pitchman and occasional actor.He was best known as the face of the George Foreman Grill, a rudimentary cooking machine which sold more than 100 million units and made him much wealthier than his sport ever did.

George Foreman, the glowering heavyweight who became a lovable champion, dies at 76

The Kansas City Royals announced on Friday that Kauffman Stadium will be sold out for Opening Day on Thursday, March 27 against the Cleveland Guardians. 

First pitch is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. You can watch the game on FanDuel Sports Network and listen locally on KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) with pregame coverage starting at 2:30 p.m.

The Royals also said fountain passes are still available for Opening Day. You can find out more information by <a href="https://t.co/aXH8UdGoFj">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742591673486.png" alt="An Air Force B2 bomber flies over Kauffman Stadium before a baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>An Air Force B2 bomber flies over Kauffman Stadium before a baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City Royals announced on Friday that Kauffman Stadium will be sold out for Opening Day on Thursday, March 27 against the Cleveland Guardians. First pitch is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. You can watch the game on FanDuel Sports Network and listen locally on KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) with pregame coverage starting at 2:30 p.m.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are SOLD OUT for Opening Day! We can’t wait to see and hear you at The K! <a href="https://t.co/ac6KRUBuWb">pic.twitter.com/ac6KRUBuWb</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1903107499235893743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Royals also said fountain passes are still available for Opening Day. You can find out more information by <a href="https://t.co/aXH8UdGoFj">clicking here</a>.&nbsp;

⚾ Royals announce Kauffman Stadium is sold out for Opening Day

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Ayoka Lee had 17 points and 10 rebounds in her return to the lineup, and fifth-seeded Kansas State beat Fairfield 85-41 on Friday in the first round of the NCAA women’s tournament.

Lee went 7 for 10 from the field in her first game since she played just four minutes in a 90-60 victory over Kansas on Feb. 22. The 6-foot-6 center has been hampered by foot injuries.

She played 15 minutes against the Stags before departing with 2:15 remaining in the third quarter.

Next up for the Wildcats (27-7) is a second-round game against host Kentucky on Sunday.

Katey L’Amoreaux scored 11 points for No. 12 seed Fairfield (28-5), which shot a season-low 29.4% from the field.

Kansas State jumped out to a 17-4 lead. The Wildcats used an 11-2 run to make it 50-29 in the second half.

Serena Sundell had 18 points and nine assists for Kansas State, and Taryn Sides added 14 points.

Fairfield: The Stags entered the tournament with the nation’s 10th-best scoring defense (54 ppg), but they were no match for the bigger Wildcats.

Kansas State: Any concern about Lee’s health should be put to rest, but the Wildcats will face a much tougher test on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742589974992.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Ayoka Lee had 17 points and 10 rebounds in her return to the lineup, and fifth-seeded Kansas State beat Fairfield 85-41 on Friday in the first round of the NCAA women’s tournament.Lee went 7 for 10 from the field in her first game since she played just four minutes in a 90-60 victory over Kansas on Feb. 22. The 6-foot-6 center has been hampered by foot injuries.She played 15 minutes against the Stags before departing with 2:15 remaining in the third quarter.Next up for the Wildcats (27-7) is a second-round game against host Kentucky on Sunday.Katey L’Amoreaux scored 11 points for No. 12 seed Fairfield (28-5), which shot a season-low 29.4% from the field.Kansas State jumped out to a 17-4 lead. The Wildcats used an 11-2 run to make it 50-29 in the second half.Serena Sundell had 18 points and nine assists for Kansas State, and Taryn Sides added 14 points.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Fairfield: The Stags entered the tournament with the nation’s 10th-best scoring defense (54 ppg), but they were no match for the bigger Wildcats.Kansas State: Any concern about Lee’s health should be put to rest, but the Wildcats will face a much tougher test on Sunday.<h2>Key stats</h2>

🏀 K-State women blow by Fairfield in first round of NCAA Tournament

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742590165416.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan.&nbsp;&mdash; Bob Davis, the legendary "Voice of the Jayhawks" for more than 30 years, has passed away at the age of 80, his family announced Friday. &nbsp; Davis is survived by his son, Steven, daughter-in-law Katie and grandchildren Landon, Will, Millie and Hattie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, who died March 13, 2025, in Lawrence. Bob and Linda were married for 53 years. Bob passed away Thursday, March 20th.&nbsp; Davis, who began his KU career in 1984 and retired in 2016, was at the microphone for some of the most iconic moments in Kansas Athletics history.&nbsp; "Bob Davis is synonymous with Kansas Athletics for generations of fans, who grew up listening to his calls of some of the most important moments in KU history," Director of Athletics&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166" rel="smarttag" rev="166">Travis Goff</a></dfn>&nbsp;said. "Bob's love and passion of the Jayhawks shined through during the broadcast with his beloved radio partners. For more than three decades, Bob represented Kansas Athletics in exemplary fashion and connected Jayhawk fans everywhere with his famous one-liners and detailed storytelling.&nbsp; "We send our deepest love and prayers to his family and will forever be grateful for his service to KU." In the spring of 1984, Davis was hired as the "Voice of the Jayhawks" where he would work alongside Max Falkenstein in the broadcast booth. Davis' voice is the soundtrack of many of KU's most memorable games, as he called eight Jayhawk trips to the Final Four, six KU football bowl games, including the 2008 Orange Bowl, and thousands of regular season basketball and football games before his retirement in the spring of 2016. Davis was also on the call for the 1988 and 2008 men's basketball national championship victories.&nbsp; "We lost a KU legend in Bob Davis, who was the voice of the of the Jayhawks for decades," Kansas Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/bill-self/727" rel="smarttag" rev="727">Bill Self</a></dfn>&nbsp;said. "Bob was not only superior at his craft, but he was also a terrific, humble and unselfish person that gave so much of himself to so many. Our hearts go out to the entire family, especially with his wonderful wife Linda passing just last week."&nbsp; Davis also hosted weekly coaches shows as the Voice of the Jayhawks, including hosting with KU basketball coaches Larry Brown, Roy Williams and Self and football coaches, including Glen Mason and Mark Mangino. For more than three decades, Davis was embedded with KU's teams, striking lifelong relationships with coaches and student-athletes. He proudly worked alongside Falkenstein and basketball analysts Chris Piper and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/greg-gurley/397" rel="smarttag" rev="397">Greg Gurley</a></dfn>&nbsp;and football's David Lawrence. "Bob's distinctive and enthusiastic voice served as the soundtrack for Kansas teams for decades" Mangino said. "He was a good friend and fun to be around. Our players and coaches loved Bob, and enjoyed his calls on highlight reels." &nbsp; A 48-year veteran of broadcasting in the state of Kansas, Davis was born in Iola, and grew up in Topeka where he graduated from Topeka West High School in 1962. Davis stayed in Topeka to attend Washburn, where he graduated in 1967 with a degree in history.&nbsp; Davis launched his legendary broadcast career the following year in 1968 when&nbsp; Hired by KAYS in Hays, Kansas and began his broadcasting career during the summer of 1968 calling American Legion baseball. He was the play-by-play voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers until 1984, his tenure culminating by calling the 1984 NAIA National Championship won by the FHSU men's basketball team. In addition to his KU role, Davis called the NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four for CBS Radio six times in 1990, 1992 and 1994-97. Also, in 1997, Davis joined the Kansas City Royals as well, calling games for radio and television for the franchise for 16 years.&nbsp; Davis earned numerous accolades for his work. He was named the Kansas Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sports Writers Association in 2015, marking the 14th time he had earned the honor since 1975. Davis was also named the two-time recipient of the Oscar Stauffer Sports Broadcasting Award by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) in 1975 and 1978. Davis was named to several Hall of Fames including: &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Fort Hays State Tiger Athletics Hall of Fame (1990) &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2006) &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Topeka West HS Graduates Hall of Fame (2011) &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Topeka-Shawnee County Baseball Hall of Fame (2016) &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas Sports Hall of Fame (2016) &bull;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Hays HS Athletics Hall of Fame (2024) What They're Saying About Bob Davis Roy Williams (men's basketball coach from 1988-2003) "Bob Davis was a fantastic announcer and loved KU. I was a new coach, and he helped me immensely. He set the bar for all those I worked with later. He is a KU giant." David Lawrence (Kansas football broadcaster since 1995) "For 32 years, Bob captivated Jayhawk nation with his wit, voice, and impeccable timing. While we will miss the physical presence of our friend. His iconic radio calls will still bring the goosebumps and live in our minds forever." <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/greg-gurley/397" rel="smarttag" rev="397">Greg Gurley</a></dfn>&nbsp;(men's basketball color analyst since 2012) "I will always cherish my time spent with Bob. He made a difficult job appear to be so easy and natural. It was an honor and a privilege to work with him. His effortless delivery and wit is what made him special. He was such an important influence on my life as player, broadcaster, and man. We have lost an iconic Jayhawk. Luckily all Jayhawk fans can still hear his signature calls forever." Chris Piper (men's basketball color analyst from 2006-11) "I've always had this vision of Bob setting in the kitchen doing play by play as his beloved wife Linda made him breakfast. He had that booming voice and unbelievable wit that made him one of a kind. We had a lot of fun doing games together and I know the Jayhawk Nation lost one of its greats."&nbsp;</div>

Bob Davis, former “Voice of the Jayhawks” dies

<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 Friday, March 21" 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=bhaw7-1858748-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 LISTEN: 🏀 NCAA Tournament is underway; 🏀 NJCAA Tournament tips off tomorrow

🏀 K-state women open NCAA Tournament with Fairfield

CBS — NCAA Tournament: Baylor vs. Mississippi St., First Round, Raleigh, N.C.

TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Robert Morris vs. Alabama, First Round, Cleveland

TNT — NCAA Tournament: Lipscomb vs. Iowa St., First Round, Milwaukee

TBS — NCAA Tournament: Colorado St. vs. Memphis, First Round, Seattle

CBS — NCAA Tournament: Mount St. Mary’s vs. Duke, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.

TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s (Cal), First Round, Cleveland

TNT — NCAA Tournament: North Carolina vs. Mississippi, First Round, Milwaukee

TBS — NCAA Tournament: Grand Canyon vs. Maryland, First Round, Seattle

TNT — NCAA Tournament: Norfolk St. vs. Florida, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.

CBS — NCAA Tournament: Troy vs. Kentucky, First Round, Milwaukee

TBS — NCAA Tournament: New Mexico vs. Marquette, First Round, Cleveland

TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Akron vs. Arizona, First Round, Seattle

TNT — NCAA Tournament: Oklahoma vs. UConn, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.

CBS — NCAA Tournament: Xavier vs. Illinois, First Round, Milwaukee

TBS — NCAA Tournament: Bryant vs. Michigan St., First Round, Cleveland

TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Liberty vs. Oregon, First Round, Seattle

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742480420313.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy INTRUST Bank Arena" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy INTRUST Bank Arena</figcaption>
 </figure>(All times Central)<h2>COLLEGE BASKETBALL (MEN’S)</h2>11:15 a.m.CBS — NCAA Tournament: Baylor vs. Mississippi St., First Round, Raleigh, N.C.11:40 a.m.TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Robert Morris vs. Alabama, First Round, Cleveland12:30 p.m.TNT — NCAA Tournament: Lipscomb vs. Iowa St., First Round, Milwaukee1 p.m.TBS — NCAA Tournament: Colorado St. vs. Memphis, First Round, Seattle1:50 p.m.CBS — NCAA Tournament: Mount St. Mary’s vs. Duke, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.2:15 p.m.TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Vanderbilt vs. Saint Mary’s (Cal), First Round, Cleveland3:05 p.m.TNT — NCAA Tournament: North Carolina vs. Mississippi, First Round, Milwaukee3:35 p.m.TBS — NCAA Tournament: Grand Canyon vs. Maryland, First Round, Seattle5:50 p.m.TNT — NCAA Tournament: Norfolk St. vs. Florida, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.6:10 p.m.CBS — NCAA Tournament: Troy vs. Kentucky, First Round, Milwaukee6:25 p.m.TBS — NCAA Tournament: New Mexico vs. Marquette, First Round, Cleveland6:35 p.m.TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Akron vs. Arizona, First Round, Seattle8:25 p.m.TNT — NCAA Tournament: Oklahoma vs. UConn, First Round, Raleigh, N.C.8:45 p.m.CBS — NCAA Tournament: Xavier vs. Illinois, First Round, Milwaukee9 p.m.TBS — NCAA Tournament: Bryant vs. Michigan St., First Round, Cleveland9:10 p.m.TRUTV — NCAA Tournament: Liberty vs. Oregon, First Round, Seattle

🏀 NCAA Men's Tournament: Day 2 schedule

Kansas City Chiefs defensive end&nbsp;Charles Omenihu is returning for another season following a 1-year, $7 million deal, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Omenihu has played in 17 games over the past two seasons for the Chiefs, accounting for 34 tackles, five tackles for loss and three forced fumbles.

He became a free agent after the 2024 season. Omenihu only appeared in six games during the 2024 season after returning in late December following a torn ACL in the previous year's AFC Championship Game.

Omenihu, 27, is a former fifth-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2019. He was in the third year of his four-year, $2,815,280 rookie contract when he was traded to the 49ers for a late-round pick in 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742525533214.png" alt="Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu pumps up the crowd during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Miami Dolphins Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu pumps up the crowd during an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Miami Dolphins Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City Chiefs defensive end&nbsp;Charles Omenihu is returning for another season following a 1-year, $7 million deal, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Source: DE Charles Omenihu is returning to the Chiefs on a 1-year deal worth a maximum of $7 million. <a href="https://t.co/LPNIfwRfbd">pic.twitter.com/LPNIfwRfbd</a>&mdash; Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1902912149816594445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Omenihu has played in 17 games over the past two seasons for the Chiefs, accounting for 34 tackles, five tackles for loss and three forced fumbles.He became a free agent after the 2024 season. Omenihu only appeared in six games during the 2024 season after returning in late December following a torn ACL in the previous year's AFC Championship Game.Omenihu, 27, is a former fifth-round pick of the Houston Texans in 2019. He was in the third year of his four-year, $2,815,280 rookie contract when he was traded to the 49ers for a late-round pick in 2021.

🏈 Chiefs re-sign edge rusher Omenihu

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Jonas Aidoo scored 22 points to help 10th-seeded Arkansas to a 79-72 opening-round&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a>&nbsp;victory over No. 7 seed Kansas on Thursday night in the latest meeting between two of college basketball’s winningest coaches.

Johnell Davis added 18 points, including some crucial late free throws, to help John Calipari to his first tournament victory as Razorbacks coach. Freshman standout Boogie Fland played for the first time since having right thumb surgery in January and scored six points in 24 minutes.

Arkansas will get either No. 2 seed St. John’s or No. 15 Omaha in the second round of the West Region on Saturday.

Zeke Mayo had 18 points for Kansas (21-13), which has made 35 straight NCAA Tournaments and hadn’t lost in the first round since 2006. AJ Storr&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1902876748573790487" target="_blank">finished</a>&nbsp;with 15 points and Hunter Dickinson added 11 points and nine rebounds.

Thursday’s matchup was the third March Madness meeting between two of the four active win leaders in men’s college basketball. Calipari is second (876), with Bill Self of Kansas fourth (831) on the list. Both previous meetings were in the national championship game, with each winning once.

Kansas erased what was an 11-point, second-half deficit and nudged ahead 65-64 on a follow shot by Storr with less than six minutes remaining.

The Jayhawks kept the lead until Aidoo connected on a pair of free throws to put the Razorbacks back in front. Arkansas got a stop on the other end and then got a 3-pointer by Davis that gave it a 71-67 cushion with less than two minutes on the clock.

Arkansas’ edge was down to 71-69 before Davis dropped in a pair of free throws. Dickinson missed a 3 on Kansas’ next trip and Arkansas added two more free throws.

The Jayhawks got it back down to 75-72 on a 3-pointer by Rylan Griffen with 13 seconds left. The Razorbacks called back-to-back timeouts trying to get the ball inbounds. They finally did and Davis calmly sank two free throws to help close it out.

Arkansas: Posted its first tournament victory since reaching the Sweet 16 in 2023 under former coach Eric Musselman.

Kansas: Kansas fell to 47-6 record in first-round games all-time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742518293794.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Jonas Aidoo scored 22 points to help 10th-seeded Arkansas to a 79-72 opening-round&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness">NCAA Tournament</a>&nbsp;victory over No. 7 seed Kansas on Thursday night in the latest meeting between two of college basketball’s winningest coaches.Johnell Davis added 18 points, including some crucial late free throws, to help John Calipari to his first tournament victory as Razorbacks coach. Freshman standout Boogie Fland played for the first time since having right thumb surgery in January and scored six points in 24 minutes.Arkansas will get either No. 2 seed St. John’s or No. 15 Omaha in the second round of the West Region on Saturday.Zeke Mayo had 18 points for Kansas (21-13), which has made 35 straight NCAA Tournaments and hadn’t lost in the first round since 2006. AJ Storr&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/1902876748573790487" target="_blank">finished</a>&nbsp;with 15 points and Hunter Dickinson added 11 points and nine rebounds.Thursday’s matchup was the third March Madness meeting between two of the four active win leaders in men’s college basketball. Calipari is second (876), with Bill Self of Kansas fourth (831) on the list. Both previous meetings were in the national championship game, with each winning once.Kansas erased what was an 11-point, second-half deficit and nudged ahead 65-64 on a follow shot by Storr with less than six minutes remaining.The Jayhawks kept the lead until Aidoo connected on a pair of free throws to put the Razorbacks back in front. Arkansas got a stop on the other end and then got a 3-pointer by Davis that gave it a 71-67 cushion with less than two minutes on the clock.Arkansas’ edge was down to 71-69 before Davis dropped in a pair of free throws. Dickinson missed a 3 on Kansas’ next trip and Arkansas added two more free throws.The Jayhawks got it back down to 75-72 on a 3-pointer by Rylan Griffen with 13 seconds left. The Razorbacks called back-to-back timeouts trying to get the ball inbounds. They finally did and Davis calmly sank two free throws to help close it out.<h2>Takeaways</h2>Arkansas: Posted its first tournament victory since reaching the Sweet 16 in 2023 under former coach Eric Musselman.Kansas: Kansas fell to 47-6 record in first-round games all-time.<h2>Up next</h2>

🏀 KU loses to Arkansas for first round of 64 loss since 2006

Dan Israel, the longtime executive producer of the Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network passed away on Thursday morning after a battle with cancer.

Israel, 60, had worked every Chiefs game the team has played since 1990. He was diagnosed with colon cancer ten years ago and according to reports, the cancer had recently spread to his lungs.

Israel is credited with building up the Chiefs Radio Network into the largest radio network in the National Football League with affiliates in 12 states.

96.5 The Fan, the flagship station for the Chiefs in Kansas City broke the news on Thursday afternoon

Voice of the Chiefs, Mitch Holthus, also released a statement following the passing of his friend and coworker.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

The Chiefs released the following statements:

"My family and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Dan Israel. Dan was an integral part of our organization for 35 seasons, and his work as executive producer of the Chiefs Radio Network helped bring the game to life for millions of listeners across Chiefs Kingdom. Dan was dedicated, he was kind, and he brought joy into our building each day. Through his battle with cancer over the past ten years, these qualities served as an inspiration to his coworkers and Chiefs fans alike. We will certainly miss him, and we will keep his family in our prayers."

I was heartbroken to hear about the loss of Dan Israel. Over the last several years, I watched Dan battle this disease with strength and a positive attitude. Dan was the first person I would interview with after games. No matter how he was feeling, he always put that aside to get that interview in with a positive spin for our fans. He was a huge part of the Chiefs Radio Network and the Chiefs football team. I loved Dan Israel, and he will be missed by the Chiefs organization but never forgotten.

"I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dan Israel this morning. Danny was part of every Chiefs game of my entire career, and I consider it a great privilege to have been able to watch him work as part of the Chiefs Radio Network. He was a model of professionalism, commitment, and kindness, and he brought a passion to his work that was unmatched, even as he privately battled health conditions for years. Chiefs Kingdom was lucky to have Danny be part of their football lives for 35 seasons, and I am forever grateful to have learned so much from him in my time here. All of Chiefs Kingdom will miss Danny, and I extend my thoughts and prayers to his family."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742516517502.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>Dan Israel, the longtime executive producer of the Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network passed away on Thursday morning after a battle with cancer.Israel, 60, had worked every Chiefs game the team has played since 1990. He was diagnosed with colon cancer ten years ago and according to reports, the cancer had recently spread to his lungs.Israel is credited with building up the Chiefs Radio Network into the largest radio network in the National Football League with affiliates in 12 states.96.5 The Fan, the flagship station for the Chiefs in Kansas City broke the news on Thursday afternoon<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We’re heartbroken over the passing of Dan Israel—an NFL broadcasting legend &amp; Hall of Fame producer. More importantly, a friend and a colleague. His impact on the Chiefs Radio Network is synonymous with the Chiefs Kingdom. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. <a href="https://t.co/30GPZt3MLT">pic.twitter.com/30GPZt3MLT</a>&mdash; 96.5 The Fan (@TheFan965) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheFan965/status/1902811528224559577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Voice of the Chiefs, Mitch Holthus, also released a statement following the passing of his friend and coworker.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We’re heartbroken over the passing of Dan Israel—an NFL broadcasting legend &amp; Hall of Fame producer. More importantly, a friend and a colleague. His impact on the Chiefs Radio Network is synonymous with the Chiefs Kingdom. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. <a href="https://t.co/30GPZt3MLT">pic.twitter.com/30GPZt3MLT</a>&mdash; 96.5 The Fan (@TheFan965) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheFan965/status/1902811528224559577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>-----------------------------------------------------------------------The Chiefs released the following statements:"My family and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Dan Israel. Dan was an integral part of our organization for 35 seasons, and his work as executive producer of the Chiefs Radio Network helped bring the game to life for millions of listeners across Chiefs Kingdom. Dan was dedicated, he was kind, and he brought joy into our building each day. Through his battle with cancer over the past ten years, these qualities served as an inspiration to his coworkers and Chiefs fans alike. We will certainly miss him, and we will keep his family in our prayers."Chiefs Chairman &amp; CEO Clark Hunt--I was heartbroken to hear about the loss of Dan Israel. Over the last several years, I watched Dan battle this disease with strength and a positive attitude. Dan was the first person I would interview with after games. No matter how he was feeling, he always put that aside to get that interview in with a positive spin for our fans. He was a huge part of the Chiefs Radio Network and the Chiefs football team. I loved Dan Israel, and he will be missed by the Chiefs organization but never forgotten.Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid--"I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dan Israel this morning. Danny was part of every Chiefs game of my entire career, and I consider it a great privilege to have been able to watch him work as part of the Chiefs Radio Network. He was a model of professionalism, commitment, and kindness, and he brought a passion to his work that was unmatched, even as he privately battled health conditions for years. Chiefs Kingdom was lucky to have Danny be part of their football lives for 35 seasons, and I am forever grateful to have learned so much from him in my time here. All of Chiefs Kingdom will miss Danny, and I extend my thoughts and prayers to his family."Chiefs President Mark Donovan

🏈 Chiefs broadcaster Dan Israel dies after battle with cancer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742485281528.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/teams/KANSAS/kansas-jayhawks/" target="_blank">Watch</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://thevarsitynetwork.com/feed/source/oas-2566?audioPlayer=ukansas:allaccess-Live-89" target="_blank">Listen</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.statbroadcast.com/events/statbroadcast.php?t=1&amp;gid=kan" target="_blank">Live Stats</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2025/3/18/34_KUMBB_NCAA_Round_1-Arkansas-final.pdf" target="_blank">Game Notes</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/documents/2025/3/16/2025_ncaam_bracket_filled.pdf" target="_blank">Bracket (PDF)</a></h2>
&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan. &mdash;&nbsp;No. 7 seed Kansas (21-12) will face No. 10 seed Arkansas (20-13) in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Thursday, March 20, at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island. Tipoff is set for 6:10 p.m. Central, with the game airing on CBS. Kansas is making its 51st NCAA Tournament appearance, boasting a 112-49 record in the event. The Jayhawks are 47-5 all-time in first-round games and have advanced to 31 Sweet 16s, 15 Final Fours, and have won four of their six national championships in the tournament format (1952, 1988, 2008, 2022).&nbsp;Note: This includes the vacated wins from 2018. Kansas holds an 8-6 all-time record against Arkansas, including a 1-1 mark in NCAA Tournament matchups. The Razorbacks won the last meeting, 72-71, in the 2023 second round in Des Moines, Iowa. Since the NCAA began seeding teams in 1979, Kansas has been a No. 7 seed once before, in 1981, finishing with a 2-1 record. The Jayhawks have faced 11 teams in the 2025 NCAA Tournament field, compiling a 5-9 record against those opponents. Kansas is No. 20 in the NET report by the NCAA through games of March 16. To show the strength of the Big 12, the No. 20 rank is fifth in the Big 12 behind No. 3 Houston, No. 7 Texas Tech, No. 9 Iowa State and No. 12 Arizona. Kansas' strength of schedule is No. 12 nationally, which is fourth in the league. &nbsp; Kansas leads the Big 12 in assists per game (17.7, fifth nationally) and blocked shots per game (4.8, 24th nationally). KU is second in the league in FG Pct. Defense (39.9%, 15th nationally) and assist-to-turnover ratio (1.51, 25th nationally). KU ranks in the top three in five Big 12 team stats. The Jayhawks, who are receiving votes in both polls, average 76.2 points per game with a +6.9 scoring margin. KU pulls down 38.5 rebounds per contest with a +3.8 rebound margin. Kansas is making 47.1% from the field, including 35.2% from three-point range. Kansas leads the Big 12 in assists per game (17.7, fifth nationally) and blocked shots per game (4.8, 24th nationally). KU is second in the league in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.51, 25th nationally) and third in rebounds per game (38.6, 31st nationally) and three point field goal percentage defense (30.9%, 44th nationally). KU also averages 6.2 steals per game. &nbsp; Graduate C&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/hunter-dickinson/15488" rel="smarttag" rev="15488">Hunter Dickinson</a></dfn>&nbsp;has four straight and seven double-doubles in his last eight games after his 19 points and 12 rebounds against Arizona (3/13). A two-time All-Big 12 First Team selection in 2024 and 2025, Dickinson leads Kansas in scoring at 17.6 ppg which is fourth in the Big 12. Dickinson also leads KU in rebounding at 10.0 rpg, which is second in the Big 12 and 11th nationally. A three-time Big 12 Player of the Week, Dickinson is second in the Big 12 in double-doubles (16), which is 10th nationally. Dickinson is second on the team with 44 blocked shots and is also second on the team with 33 steals. &nbsp; Senior G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/zeke-mayo/15498" rel="smarttag" rev="15498">Zeke Mayo</a></dfn>&nbsp;is next in scoring at 14.5 points per contest, which includes three-straight 20 points games in his last three outings. An All-Big 12 Third Team and Big 12 All-Newcomer Team honoree, Mayo leads Kansas with 85 threes made and has made 15 in his last three games. He is making 41.3 percent from beyond the arc. A two-time Big 12 Newcomer of the Week, Mayo is second on the team with 98 assists and pulls down 4.8 rebounds per contest. &nbsp; Senior F&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/kj-adams/15494" rel="smarttag" rev="15494">KJ Adams</a></dfn>&nbsp;is averaging 14.2 points in his last six games and 8.0 rebounds in his last five outings. He posted his third career double-double, first of the season, with 21 points and a career-high 13 rebounds versus Texas Tech (3/1). Adams is a starter who is scoring 9.2 points per game and pulls down 5.0 rebounds per game. Adams has 75 assists, 24 blocked shots and 27 steals this season. &nbsp; Graduate G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/dajuan-harris-jr-/15490" rel="smarttag" rev="15490">Dajuan Harris Jr.</a></dfn>&nbsp;has 83 assists in his last 14 games. A three-time All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection (2023, 2024, 2025), Harris is averaging 9.2 points per game. At Baylor (2/1), Harris moved into second on the Big 12 career assists list, currently at 858, which second on the KU career list. Harris is second the Big 12 in assists per game at 5.7 and third in assist-to-turnover ratio at 3.14, which is ninth nationally. &nbsp; Junior G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/rylan-griffen/15499" rel="smarttag" rev="15499">Rylan Griffen</a></dfn>&nbsp;is third on the team with 40 threes made. He has started 19 games this season and is averaging 6.4 points per contest. Freshman F&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/flory-bidunga/15502" rel="smarttag" rev="15502">Flory Bidunga</a></dfn>&nbsp;leads KU with 52 blocked shots, which ranks fourth on the KU Freshman Blocked Shots list. Bidunga is second on the team with a 5.4 rebound average and he scores 5.9 points per game. He has a team-high 45 dunks this season. Junior G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/aj-storr/15496" rel="smarttag" rev="15496">AJ Storr</a></dfn>&nbsp;scored a season-high 19 points against UCF (3/12) in the Big 12 Championship. Storr has started four games and he is scoring 5.8 points per contest. Senior G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/david-coit/15715" rel="smarttag" rev="15715">David Coit</a></dfn>&nbsp;has made 22 threes in his last 10 games, including a 4-for-6 effort at Houston (3/3). Coit has three starts and is second on the team with 46 threes made. Coit averages 5.2 points per game. Graduate G&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/shakeel-moore/15495" rel="smarttag" rev="15495">Shakeel Moore</a></dfn>&nbsp;has started nine games and is averaging 3.8 points per contest. UP NEXT Should Kansas win its opening round game against Arkansas, KU would play the winner of the No. 2 St. John's versus No. 15 Omaha contest on Saturday, March 22 at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island. &nbsp; Kansas is 24-14 all-time in second round games in the NCAA Championship. &nbsp; Kansas is 9-5 all-time against St. John's and KU has won the last three series meetings. KU defeated SJU, 80-63 in the 1952 NCAA title game in Seattle. KU is 3-0 all-time versus Omaha.</div>

🏀 KU faces Arkansas in NCAA Tournament opener this evening

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742480420313.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy INTRUST Bank Arena" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy INTRUST Bank Arena</figcaption>
 </figure>All Times CDT<h2>MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL</h2>NCAA Tournament - First RoundAt Wichita, Kan.SIU-Edwardsville vs. Houston, 1 p.m.Georgia vs. Gonzaga, 3:35 p.m.Drake vs. Missouri, 6:35 p.m.UNC-Wilmington vs. Texas Tech, 9:10 p.m.At Lexington, Ky.Creighton vs. Louisville, 11:15 a.m.Alabama St. vs. Auburn, 1:50 p.m.Wofford vs. Tennessee, 5:50 p.m.Utah St. vs. UCLA, 8:25 p.m.At Providence, R.I.High Point vs. Purdue, 11:40 a.m.McNeese St. vs. Clemson, 2:15 p.m.Arkansas vs. Kansas, 6:10 p.m.Omaha vs. St. John’s, 8:45 p.m.At DenverMontana vs. Wisconsin, 12:30 p.m.VCU vs. BYU, 3:05 p.m.Yale vs. Texas A&amp;M, 6:25 p.m.UC San Diego vs. Michigan, 9 p.m.

🏀 NCAA Men's Tournament: Day 1 schedule

Capsules of American League Central teams, listed in order of finish last year:

2024: 92-69, first place, lost to Yankees in AL Championship Series.

He’s Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RHP Luis Ortiz, RHP Paul Sewald, RHP Jakob Junis, LHP John Means

He’s Outta Here: 1B Josh Naylor, 2B Andrés Giménez, CF Myles Straw, RHP Nick Sandlin, LHP Matthew Boyd, RHP Alex Cobb

Top Hitters: 3B José Ramírez (.279, 39 HRs, 118 RBIs, 41 SBs, .872 OPS), LF Steven Kwan (.292, 14, 44, .793 OPS), 1B Carlos Santana (.238, 23, 71, .749 OPS with Minnesota).

Projected Rotation: RH Tanner Bibee (12-8, 3.47 ERA), RH Ben Lively (13-10, 3.81), RH Luis Ortiz (7-6, 3.92 with Pittsburgh), RH Gavin Williams (3-10, 4.86), RH Triston McKenzie (3-5, 5.11)

Key Relievers: RH Emmanuel Clase (4-2, 0.61 ERA, 47/50 saves, 8.0 Ks/9 IP), RH Cade Smith (6-1, 1.91, 1 save), RH Hunter Gaddis (6-3, 1.57), RH Paul Sewald (1-2, 4.31, 16/20 saves with Arizona), LH Jakob Junis (4-0, 2.69, 1 save with Milwaukee and Cincinnati).

Outlook: With Ramírez leading the way on offense and one of baseball’s top bullpens, the Guardians should contend for their sixth AL Central title since 2016. However, there remain concerns about the rotation and the middle of the batting order. Bibee will be the staff’s ace until Shane Bieber returns later this season after having Tommy John surgery last year. The final two rotation spots are questionable after Williams and McKenzie struggled last season. While Ramírez and Kwan provide plenty of offense at the top of the order, the rest of the lineup needs to keep pace. This could be a pivotal year for catcher Bo Naylor, who had 13 home runs but batted only .201 last season.

2024: 86-76, second place AL Central, lost ALDS to Guardians.

Opening Day: March 27 at Los Angeles Dodgers.

He’s Here: 2B Gleyber Torres, RHP Jack Flaherty, RHP John Brebbia, RHP José Urquidy, RHP Tommy Kahnle, RHP Alex Cobb.

He’s Outta Here: RHP Shelby Miller, LHP Joey Wentz, RHP Alex Faedo, OF Mark Canha, 3B Gio Urshela.

Top Hitters: LF Riley Greene (.262, 24 HRs, 74 RBIs), RF Kerry Carpenter (.285, 18, 57), 1B Colt Keith (.260, 13, 61), OF/IF Matt Vierling (.257, 16, 57), Torres (.257, 15, 63), SS Javier Báez (.184, 6, 37).

Projected Rotation: LH Tarik Skubal (18-4, 2.39 ERA, 228 Ks in 192 IP), RH Jack Flaherty (13-7, 3.17 in 28 starts), RH Reese Olson (4-8, 3.53 in 22 starts), RH Jackson Jobe (0-0, 2 Ks in 4 IP), RH Casey Mize (2-6, 4.49).

Key Relievers: RH Jason Foley (3-6, 3.15 ERA, 28 saves), RH Will Vest (3-4, 2.82, 69 games), RH Tommy Kahnle (0-2, 2.11 in 50 games with New York Yankees, LH Tyler Holton (7-2, 2.19 in 66 games), RH John Brebbia (0-6, 5.86 in 59 games with Atlanta and Chicago White Sox).

Outlook: The Tigers are expected to contend for a spot in the playoffs, a year after a late-season surge ended a decade-long postseason drought. They kept their top players and made some key additions, signing a two-time All-Star (Torres) and bringing back Flaherty as a free agent to rejoin a rotation led by the AL Cy Young and Triple Crown winner (Skubal). Injuries may be a concern in the outfield with Vierling, Parker Meadows, Wenceel Perez and Akil Baddoo already banged up and oft-injured Cobb ailing again. If DH Spencer Torkelson can get in a groove at the plate, it would be a big boost for the lineup.

2024: 86-76, tied for second place, lost to Yankees in Division Series.

He’s Here: 2B Jonathan India, RHP Carlos Estevez, INF Cavan Biggio.

He’s Outta Here: RHP Brady Singer, INF Adam Frazier, OF Garrett Hampson, 1B/OF Tommy Pham.

Top Hitters: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (MLB-best .332, 32 HRs, 109 RBIs, 31 SBs), 1B Vinnie Pasquantino (.262, 19, 97), C/1B Salvador Perez (.271, 27, 104), 2B Jonathan India (.248, 15, 58), INF/OF Michael Massey (.259, 14, 45), INF/OF Maikel Garcia (.231, 7, 58, 37 SBs).

Projected Rotation: LH Cole Ragans (11-9, 3.14 ERA), RH Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.00 in MLB-best 33 starts), RH Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.35), RH Michael Lorenzen (2-0, 1.57), LH Kris Bubic (1-1, 2.67).

Key Relievers: RH Lucas Erceg (2-6, 3.36 ERA, 14 saves with Royals and Athletics), RH Carlos Estevez (4-5, 2.45, 26 saves with Angels and Phillies), RH Hunter Harvey (0-0, 6.35), RH John Schreiber (4-3, 3.66), RH Alec Marsh (9-9, 4.53), LH Angel Zerpa (2-0, 3.86).

Outlook: The Royals went from 106-loss laughingstock in manager Matt Quatraro’s first season to 86 wins, a second-place finish in the AL Central and a wild-card series win over Baltimore last year. The biggest reason for the abrupt turnaround was an almost entirely rebuilt starting rotation, which produced All-Stars in Ragans and Lugo and dependability in Singer and Wacha. Singer was traded to the Reds in the deal that landed on-base machine India to play 2B, but the rotation otherwise returns intact with Bubic, Lorenzen and Kyle Wright in the mix for the open job. The Royals failed to land an offensive upgrade in the corner outfield spots, so they will hope incumbents produce more than last season. They can hardly expect more from Witt, who finished second to the Yankees’ Aaron Judge in AL MVP voting while also winning Silver Slugger and Gold Glove awards during his All-Star season. The Royals play in a relatively weak division, so they expect to be in the mix for their first title since 2015, when they went on to beat the Mets for the World Series title.

Manager: Rocco Baldelli (seventh season).

He’s Here: 1B Ty France, OF Harrison Bader, LHP Danny Coulombe.

He’s Outta Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RF Max Kepler, OF Manny Margot, INF Kyle Farmer, OF Alex Kirilloff, LHP Caleb Thielbar, LHP Steven Okert, RHP Josh Staumont.

Top Hitters: SS Carlos Correa (.310, 14 HRs, 54 RBIs, .905 OPS in 86 games), CF Byron Buxton (.279, 18, 56, .859 OPS in 102 games), 3B Royce Lewis (.233, 16, 47 in 82 games), RF Matt Wallner (.259, 13, 37, .894 OPS in 75 games), C Ryan Jeffers (.226, 21, 64).

Projected Rotation: RH Pablo López (15-10, 4.08 ERA, 198 Ks in 185 1/3 innings), RH Bailey Ober (12-9, 3.98, 191 Ks in 178 2/3 innings), RH Joe Ryan (7-7, 3.60, 0.985 WHIP in 23 starts), RH Chris Paddack (5-3, 4.99 in 17 starts), RH Simeon Woods Richardson (5-5, 4.17).

Key Relievers: RH Jhoan Durán (6-9, 3.64 ERA, 23/25 saves, 66 Ks in 54 1/3 innings), RH Griffin Jax (5-5, 2.03, 10/16 saves, 0.873 WHIP, 95 Ks in 71 innings), RH Cole Sands (9-1, 3.28, 85 Ks in 71 1/3 innings), LH Danny Coulombe (1-0, 2.12 in 29 2/3 innings with Orioles).

Outlook: After losing 27 of their last 39 games to tumble out of a spot in the playoffs, the Twins will try to reset on the field while the franchise remains for sale and fan angst is stronger than it’s been in years. Keeping their best players healthy will be the first place to start, after Correa and Lewis missed long stretches with injuries. Buxton was more available than he’d been in seven seasons, but their freefall in mid-August coincided with him hitting the injured list with hip inflammation. Getting a healthy Ryan back for the rotation would also be a big boost, too, after he missed the last six weeks with shoulder trouble. The Twins were 10th in the major leagues in runs in each of the last two seasons despite the series of injuries to several of their key hitters, and their flame-throwing pitching staff that ranked second in baseball in strikeouts in 2024 and first in 2023 features a reliable group of starters and a potentially dominant late-inning trio with Sands and Jax setting up Durán. There’s plenty of potential in a wide-open division for the Twins to bounce right back in 2025.

Opening Day: March 27 vs. Los Angeles Angels.

He’s Here: OF/INF Joey Gallo, INF Brandon Drury, LHP Martín Pérez, C Omar Narváez, INF Bobby Dalbec, LHP Tyler Gilbert, LHP Cam Booser, RHP Bryse Wilson, OF Mike Tauchman, OF Austin Slater.

He’s Outta Here: LHP Garrett Crochet, 3B Yoán Moncada.

Top Hitters: CF Luis Robert Jr. (.224, 14 HRs, 35 RBIs), LF Andrew Benintendi (.229, 20, 64), 1B Andrew Vaughn (.246, 19, 70).

Projected Rotation: RH Jonathan Cannon (5-10, 4.49 ERA), LH Martín Pérez (5-6, 4.53 with Pittsburgh and San Diego), RH Davis Martin (0-5, 4.32), RH Bryse Wilson (5-4, 4.04 in 34 appearances and nine starts for Milwaukee), RH Sean Burke (2-0, 1.42).

Key Relievers: RH Justin Anderson (1-2, 4.39, one save), RH Gus Varland (1-0, 3.42 with Los Angeles Dodgers and White Sox), LH Cam Booser (2-3, 3.38, one save with Boston).

Outlook: The White Sox have nowhere to go but up, right? After all, they set a modern major league record for losses last year in GM Chris Getz’s first full season running baseball operations. The team has new leadership in the dugout with Venable taking over for Pedro Grifol, who was fired last August. Venable was an associate manager under Bruce Bochy in Texas for the past two years. Chicago dealt Crochet to Boston at the winter meetings. But the White Sox hung onto Robert at least for now coming off an injury-riddled season. Benintendi was expected to miss four to six weeks after breaking his right hand when he was hit by a pitch during a spring training game in late February, and right-hander Prelander Berroa is out for the season. The White Sox announced last week he would have Tommy John surgery, leaving them without a key reliever. The 24-year-old Berroa had a 3.32 ERA in 17 appearances last season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728356322742.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) connects for a solo home run against the New York Yankees during the fourth inning of Game 2 of the American League baseball playoff series, Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) connects for a solo home run against the New York Yankees during the fourth inning of Game 2 of the American League baseball playoff series, Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)</figcaption>
 </figure>Associated PressCapsules of American League Central teams, listed in order of finish last year:___<h2>Cleveland Guardians</h2>2024: 92-69, first place, lost to Yankees in AL Championship Series.Manager: Stephen Vogt (second season).Opening Day: March 27 at Kansas City.He’s Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RHP Luis Ortiz, RHP Paul Sewald, RHP Jakob Junis, LHP John MeansHe’s Outta Here: 1B Josh Naylor, 2B Andrés Giménez, CF Myles Straw, RHP Nick Sandlin, LHP Matthew Boyd, RHP Alex CobbTop Hitters: 3B José Ramírez (.279, 39 HRs, 118 RBIs, 41 SBs, .872 OPS), LF Steven Kwan (.292, 14, 44, .793 OPS), 1B Carlos Santana (.238, 23, 71, .749 OPS with Minnesota).Projected Rotation: RH Tanner Bibee (12-8, 3.47 ERA), RH Ben Lively (13-10, 3.81), RH Luis Ortiz (7-6, 3.92 with Pittsburgh), RH Gavin Williams (3-10, 4.86), RH Triston McKenzie (3-5, 5.11)Key Relievers: RH Emmanuel Clase (4-2, 0.61 ERA, 47/50 saves, 8.0 Ks/9 IP), RH Cade Smith (6-1, 1.91, 1 save), RH Hunter Gaddis (6-3, 1.57), RH Paul Sewald (1-2, 4.31, 16/20 saves with Arizona), LH Jakob Junis (4-0, 2.69, 1 save with Milwaukee and Cincinnati).Outlook: With Ramírez leading the way on offense and one of baseball’s top bullpens, the Guardians should contend for their sixth AL Central title since 2016. However, there remain concerns about the rotation and the middle of the batting order. Bibee will be the staff’s ace until Shane Bieber returns later this season after having Tommy John surgery last year. The final two rotation spots are questionable after Williams and McKenzie struggled last season. While Ramírez and Kwan provide plenty of offense at the top of the order, the rest of the lineup needs to keep pace. This could be a pivotal year for catcher Bo Naylor, who had 13 home runs but batted only .201 last season.___<h2>Detroit Tigers</h2>2024: 86-76, second place AL Central, lost ALDS to Guardians.Manager: A.J. Hinch (fifth season)Opening Day: March 27 at Los Angeles Dodgers.He’s Here: 2B Gleyber Torres, RHP Jack Flaherty, RHP John Brebbia, RHP José Urquidy, RHP Tommy Kahnle, RHP Alex Cobb.He’s Outta Here: RHP Shelby Miller, LHP Joey Wentz, RHP Alex Faedo, OF Mark Canha, 3B Gio Urshela.Top Hitters: LF Riley Greene (.262, 24 HRs, 74 RBIs), RF Kerry Carpenter (.285, 18, 57), 1B Colt Keith (.260, 13, 61), OF/IF Matt Vierling (.257, 16, 57), Torres (.257, 15, 63), SS Javier Báez (.184, 6, 37).Projected Rotation: LH Tarik Skubal (18-4, 2.39 ERA, 228 Ks in 192 IP), RH Jack Flaherty (13-7, 3.17 in 28 starts), RH Reese Olson (4-8, 3.53 in 22 starts), RH Jackson Jobe (0-0, 2 Ks in 4 IP), RH Casey Mize (2-6, 4.49).Key Relievers: RH Jason Foley (3-6, 3.15 ERA, 28 saves), RH Will Vest (3-4, 2.82, 69 games), RH Tommy Kahnle (0-2, 2.11 in 50 games with New York Yankees, LH Tyler Holton (7-2, 2.19 in 66 games), RH John Brebbia (0-6, 5.86 in 59 games with Atlanta and Chicago White Sox).Outlook: The Tigers are expected to contend for a spot in the playoffs, a year after a late-season surge ended a decade-long postseason drought. They kept their top players and made some key additions, signing a two-time All-Star (Torres) and bringing back Flaherty as a free agent to rejoin a rotation led by the AL Cy Young and Triple Crown winner (Skubal). Injuries may be a concern in the outfield with Vierling, Parker Meadows, Wenceel Perez and Akil Baddoo already banged up and oft-injured Cobb ailing again. If DH Spencer Torkelson can get in a groove at the plate, it would be a big boost for the lineup.___<h2>Kansas City Royals</h2>2024: 86-76, tied for second place, lost to Yankees in Division Series.Manager: Matt Quatraro (third season).Opening Day: March 27 against Cleveland.He’s Here: 2B Jonathan India, RHP Carlos Estevez, INF Cavan Biggio.He’s Outta Here: RHP Brady Singer, INF Adam Frazier, OF Garrett Hampson, 1B/OF Tommy Pham.Top Hitters: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (MLB-best .332, 32 HRs, 109 RBIs, 31 SBs), 1B Vinnie Pasquantino (.262, 19, 97), C/1B Salvador Perez (.271, 27, 104), 2B Jonathan India (.248, 15, 58), INF/OF Michael Massey (.259, 14, 45), INF/OF Maikel Garcia (.231, 7, 58, 37 SBs).Projected Rotation: LH Cole Ragans (11-9, 3.14 ERA), RH Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.00 in MLB-best 33 starts), RH Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.35), RH Michael Lorenzen (2-0, 1.57), LH Kris Bubic (1-1, 2.67).Key Relievers: RH Lucas Erceg (2-6, 3.36 ERA, 14 saves with Royals and Athletics), RH Carlos Estevez (4-5, 2.45, 26 saves with Angels and Phillies), RH Hunter Harvey (0-0, 6.35), RH John Schreiber (4-3, 3.66), RH Alec Marsh (9-9, 4.53), LH Angel Zerpa (2-0, 3.86).Outlook: The Royals went from 106-loss laughingstock in manager Matt Quatraro’s first season to 86 wins, a second-place finish in the AL Central and a wild-card series win over Baltimore last year. The biggest reason for the abrupt turnaround was an almost entirely rebuilt starting rotation, which produced All-Stars in Ragans and Lugo and dependability in Singer and Wacha. Singer was traded to the Reds in the deal that landed on-base machine India to play 2B, but the rotation otherwise returns intact with Bubic, Lorenzen and Kyle Wright in the mix for the open job. The Royals failed to land an offensive upgrade in the corner outfield spots, so they will hope incumbents produce more than last season. They can hardly expect more from Witt, who finished second to the Yankees’ Aaron Judge in AL MVP voting while also winning Silver Slugger and Gold Glove awards during his All-Star season. The Royals play in a relatively weak division, so they expect to be in the mix for their first title since 2015, when they went on to beat the Mets for the World Series title.___<h2>Minnesota Twins</h2>2024: 82-80, fourth place.Manager: Rocco Baldelli (seventh season).Opening Day: March 27 at St. Louis.He’s Here: 1B Ty France, OF Harrison Bader, LHP Danny Coulombe.He’s Outta Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RF Max Kepler, OF Manny Margot, INF Kyle Farmer, OF Alex Kirilloff, LHP Caleb Thielbar, LHP Steven Okert, RHP Josh Staumont.Top Hitters: SS Carlos Correa (.310, 14 HRs, 54 RBIs, .905 OPS in 86 games), CF Byron Buxton (.279, 18, 56, .859 OPS in 102 games), 3B Royce Lewis (.233, 16, 47 in 82 games), RF Matt Wallner (.259, 13, 37, .894 OPS in 75 games), C Ryan Jeffers (.226, 21, 64).Projected Rotation: RH Pablo López (15-10, 4.08 ERA, 198 Ks in 185 1/3 innings), RH Bailey Ober (12-9, 3.98, 191 Ks in 178 2/3 innings), RH Joe Ryan (7-7, 3.60, 0.985 WHIP in 23 starts), RH Chris Paddack (5-3, 4.99 in 17 starts), RH Simeon Woods Richardson (5-5, 4.17).Key Relievers: RH Jhoan Durán (6-9, 3.64 ERA, 23/25 saves, 66 Ks in 54 1/3 innings), RH Griffin Jax (5-5, 2.03, 10/16 saves, 0.873 WHIP, 95 Ks in 71 innings), RH Cole Sands (9-1, 3.28, 85 Ks in 71 1/3 innings), LH Danny Coulombe (1-0, 2.12 in 29 2/3 innings with Orioles).Outlook: After losing 27 of their last 39 games to tumble out of a spot in the playoffs, the Twins will try to reset on the field while the franchise remains for sale and fan angst is stronger than it’s been in years. Keeping their best players healthy will be the first place to start, after Correa and Lewis missed long stretches with injuries. Buxton was more available than he’d been in seven seasons, but their freefall in mid-August coincided with him hitting the injured list with hip inflammation. Getting a healthy Ryan back for the rotation would also be a big boost, too, after he missed the last six weeks with shoulder trouble. The Twins were 10th in the major leagues in runs in each of the last two seasons despite the series of injuries to several of their key hitters, and their flame-throwing pitching staff that ranked second in baseball in strikeouts in 2024 and first in 2023 features a reliable group of starters and a potentially dominant late-inning trio with Sands and Jax setting up Durán. There’s plenty of potential in a wide-open division for the Twins to bounce right back in 2025.___<h2>Chicago White Sox</h2>2024: 41-121, fifth place.Manager: Will Venable (first season).Opening Day: March 27 vs. Los Angeles Angels.He’s Here: OF/INF Joey Gallo, INF Brandon Drury, LHP Martín Pérez, C Omar Narváez, INF Bobby Dalbec, LHP Tyler Gilbert, LHP Cam Booser, RHP Bryse Wilson, OF Mike Tauchman, OF Austin Slater.He’s Outta Here: LHP Garrett Crochet, 3B Yoán Moncada.Top Hitters: CF Luis Robert Jr. (.224, 14 HRs, 35 RBIs), LF Andrew Benintendi (.229, 20, 64), 1B Andrew Vaughn (.246, 19, 70).Projected Rotation: RH Jonathan Cannon (5-10, 4.49 ERA), LH Martín Pérez (5-6, 4.53 with Pittsburgh and San Diego), RH Davis Martin (0-5, 4.32), RH Bryse Wilson (5-4, 4.04 in 34 appearances and nine starts for Milwaukee), RH Sean Burke (2-0, 1.42).Key Relievers: RH Justin Anderson (1-2, 4.39, one save), RH Gus Varland (1-0, 3.42 with Los Angeles Dodgers and White Sox), LH Cam Booser (2-3, 3.38, one save with Boston).Outlook: The White Sox have nowhere to go but up, right? After all, they set a modern major league record for losses last year in GM Chris Getz’s first full season running baseball operations. The team has new leadership in the dugout with Venable taking over for Pedro Grifol, who was fired last August. Venable was an associate manager under Bruce Bochy in Texas for the past two years. Chicago dealt Crochet to Boston at the winter meetings. But the White Sox hung onto Robert at least for now coming off an injury-riddled season. Benintendi was expected to miss four to six weeks after breaking his right hand when he was hit by a pitch during a spring training game in late February, and right-hander Prelander Berroa is out for the season. The White Sox announced last week he would have Tommy John surgery, leaving them without a key reliever. The 24-year-old Berroa had a 3.32 ERA in 17 appearances last season.

⚾ AL Central capsules as MLB season begins next Thursday

🎧 LISTEN: 🏀 NCAA Tournament begins; 🏀 KJCCC postseason awards

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742437359335.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &mdash;&nbsp;Kansas graduate center&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/hunter-dickinson/15488" rel="smarttag" rev="15488" data-airgap-id="71">Hunter Dickinson</a></dfn>&nbsp;has been named 2025 men's basketball All-America third team by both the Associated Press (AP) and the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA). &nbsp; This marks the third time Dickinson has earned All-America honors from both organizations, having received second-team recognition in 2024 at Kansas and in 2021 at Michigan. &nbsp; Heading into the NCAA Championship, Dickinson has recorded four consecutive double-doubles and seven in his last eight games, including a 19-point, 12-rebound performance against Arizona (3/13). A two-time All-Big 12 First Team selection (2024, 2025), he leads Kansas in scoring at 17.6 points per game, ranking fourth in the Big 12. The Alexandria, Virginia, native also leads KU in rebounding at 10.0 boards per game, which ranks second in the Big 12 and 11th nationally. A three-time Big 12 Player of the Week in 2024-25, Dickinson has 16 double-doubles this season, ranking second in the Big 12 and 10th nationally. Additionally, he is second on the team in both blocked shots (44) and steals (33). &nbsp; Earlier this season, Dickinson scored his 2,700th career point, becoming the 28th player in NCAA Division I history to record 2,700-plus points. Currently at 2,789, Dickinson ranks tied for 22nd on the NCAA's all-time scoring list. His 1,479 rebounds are 26th. He is only the third player in NCAA history to have 2,700-plus points and 1,400-plus rebounds. &nbsp; In just two seasons, Dickinson became the 69th player in Kansas history&mdash;and the 24th under head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/bill-self/727" rel="smarttag" rev="727" data-airgap-id="72">Bill Self</a></dfn>&mdash;to reach 1,000 career points at KU, currently sitting at 1,172. He achieved this milestone in just 58 games, making him the fastest Jayhawk to reach 1,000 points in the&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/bill-self/727" rel="smarttag" rev="727" data-airgap-id="73">Bill Self</a></dfn>&nbsp;era and the sixth fastest in program history. No. 7 seed Kansas (21-12) will take on No. 10 seed Arkansas (20-13) in the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Thursday, March 20, at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island. Tipoff is set for 6:10 p.m. Central, with the game airing on CBS.</div>