KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce and Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith, who skipped voluntary workouts after receiving the franchise tag, were present for the start of the Kansas City Chiefs' mandatory three-day minicamp Tuesday.

Kelce also was absent for the voluntary workouts that had been open to reporters in recent weeks.

Smith is hoping to land a long-term contract with the Chiefs, who chose him in the sixth round of the 2021 draft, when his stock had plummeted amid health concerns. He has far outplayed that draft positioning, though, and that is why the Chiefs gave him the franchise tag — essentially a $23.4 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season.

Smith and the Chiefs have until mid-July to work out a new contract, otherwise he will play the season on the one-year deal.

Smith was not made available to reporters Tuesday, but the fact that he reported to the mandatory minicamp — rather than risk a potential fine — was noteworthy. Two years ago, defensive tackle Chris Jones held out all summer and into the start of the regular season before eventually agreeing to a contract with Kansas City.

“It's good (Smith) didn't take my approach,” Jones quipped. “He shouldn't take advice from me.”

While the Chiefs worked through several lineups during the roughly 90-minute session, Smith's decision to report did give them an opportunity to see what their revamped offensive line could look like this upcoming season.

After they struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes for most of last season, and especially during a lopsided Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Chiefs began the makeover by trading two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney to the Bears for a draft pick in March.

The Chiefs proceeded to draft Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, with the final pick in the first round.

Simmons was widely considered the top tackle available, but he was coming off a knee injury that caused him to slip to the 32nd overall pick. The Chiefs were confident in their medical workup on him, though, and that gamble appears to be paying off: He was on the field and moving around well during the start of the minicamp.

“Just trying to be available as I can right now,” he said.

It's unclear whether Simmons will be a full participant when training camp begins in late July, but things appear to be trending in that direction. And that raises hopes around Kansas City that Mahomes will finally have a capable blind-side protector.

“I wanted to be able to throw the pads on ASAP,” Simmons said. “Whatever the staff allows me to do, I'm definitely going to do.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce and Pro Bowl right guard Trey Smith, who skipped voluntary workouts after receiving the franchise tag, were present for the start of the Kansas City Chiefs' mandatory three-day minicamp Tuesday.Kelce also was absent for the voluntary workouts that had been open to reporters in recent weeks.Smith is hoping to land a long-term contract with the Chiefs, who chose him in the sixth round of the 2021 draft, when his stock had plummeted amid health concerns. He has far outplayed that draft positioning, though, and that is why the Chiefs gave him the franchise tag — essentially a $23.4 million guaranteed salary for the upcoming season.Smith and the Chiefs have until mid-July to work out a new contract, otherwise he will play the season on the one-year deal.Smith was not made available to reporters Tuesday, but the fact that he reported to the mandatory minicamp — rather than risk a potential fine — was noteworthy. Two years ago, defensive tackle Chris Jones held out all summer and into the start of the regular season before eventually agreeing to a contract with Kansas City.“It's good (Smith) didn't take my approach,” Jones quipped. “He shouldn't take advice from me.”While the Chiefs worked through several lineups during the roughly 90-minute session, Smith's decision to report did give them an opportunity to see what their revamped offensive line could look like this upcoming season.After they struggled to protect Patrick Mahomes for most of last season, and especially during a lopsided Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Chiefs began the makeover by trading two-time All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney to the Bears for a draft pick in March.The Chiefs proceeded to draft Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State, with the final pick in the first round.Simmons was widely considered the top tackle available, but he was coming off a knee injury that caused him to slip to the 32nd overall pick. The Chiefs were confident in their medical workup on him, though, and that gamble appears to be paying off: He was on the field and moving around well during the start of the minicamp.“Just trying to be available as I can right now,” he said.It's unclear whether Simmons will be a full participant when training camp begins in late July, but things appear to be trending in that direction. And that raises hopes around Kansas City that Mahomes will finally have a capable blind-side protector.“I wanted to be able to throw the pads on ASAP,” Simmons said. “Whatever the staff allows me to do, I'm definitely going to do.”

🏈 TE Travis Kelce, franchised guard Trey Smith attend Chiefs minicamp

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas baseball senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135">Brady Counsell</a>&nbsp;was named a finalist for the 2025 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. I Gold Glove team, the American Baseball Coaches Association announced Monday. Counsell is the first player in program history to be a finalist for the award.

Counsell is one of three third basemen that were selected as finalists, along with Murf Gray from Fresno State and Nico Senese at Georgia Southern. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 18 via social media by Rawlings Sporting Goods.

An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2025, Counsell was a huge asset defensively for Kansas. Counsell posted a .992 fielding percentage by committing only one error in 121 chances. He provided versatility for the Jayhawks by starting games at third base, left field and second base. Counsell was involved in eight double plays, while having 69 putouts and 51 assists.

The ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove teams were first recognized in 2007 and are presented annually to the top defensive players from each division of collegiate and high school baseball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750188106960.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas baseball senior&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135">Brady Counsell</a>&nbsp;was named a finalist for the 2025 ABCA/Rawlings NCAA Div. I Gold Glove team, the American Baseball Coaches Association announced Monday. Counsell is the first player in program history to be a finalist for the award.Counsell is one of three third basemen that were selected as finalists, along with Murf Gray from Fresno State and Nico Senese at Georgia Southern. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 18 via social media by Rawlings Sporting Goods.An All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2025, Counsell was a huge asset defensively for Kansas. Counsell posted a .992 fielding percentage by committing only one error in 121 chances. He provided versatility for the Jayhawks by starting games at third base, left field and second base. Counsell was involved in eight double plays, while having 69 putouts and 51 assists.The ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove teams were first recognized in 2007 and are presented annually to the top defensive players from each division of collegiate and high school baseball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ KU's Counsell named finalist for ABCA/Rawlings Gold Glove team

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to the weather forecast, the Hutchinson Monarchs and Kingman Islanders baseball game, scheduled for this evening at 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field has been postponed to a later date.

The Monarchs will host the Junction City Brigade on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721959047107.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to the weather forecast, the Hutchinson Monarchs and Kingman Islanders baseball game, scheduled for this evening at 7 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field has been postponed to a later date.The Monarchs will host the Junction City Brigade on Wednesday at 7 p.m. at home.

⚾ Monarchs and Islanders postponed Tuesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After 35 years of high-fives, hijinks and heartwarming community work, Dan Meers, the man behind the Kansas City Chiefs' iconic mascot KC Wolf, has officially retired.

The announcement came Tuesday on National Mascot Day, marking the end of a legendary run that began in 1990 when Meers became the original KC Wolf — a role he has held ever since, making him the longest-tenured mascot in NFL history.

“Dan Meers has been the heart and soul behind KC Wolf for 35 years,” said Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “He helped establish KC Wolf not only as a source of energy and enthusiasm on gamedays, but as a symbol of pride and passion for all of Chiefs Kingdom.”

A St. Charles, Missouri, native, Meers graduated from the University of Missouri in 1990 after a standout stint as Truman the Tiger, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top college mascots. After a brief time as Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals, he joined the Chiefs full time following the debut of KC Wolf in 1989.

Over the next three and a half decades, Meers donned the furry suit at 375 Chiefs games — including 307 regular-season and postseason appearances at Arrowhead Stadium — and took KC Wolf to six international contests and five Super Bowls. He was part of three Super Bowl titles and represented the team at 14 Pro Bowls.

“To say I’m a blessed man is an understatement,” Meers said. “For the past 35 years I’ve had my dream job. I’ve worked for the team I love, in the city I love, with the people I love. I have memories and stories that will last me a lifetime.”

Beyond the field, Meers made more than 10,000 appearances as KC Wolf at schools, weddings, hospitals, military bases and charity events across 38 states and 12 countries. He built a reputation as a motivational speaker and author, donating all proceeds from his books to global missions and founding the nonprofit Character That Counts.

KC Wolf became the first NFL mascot inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2006. Meers later became the only mascot ever inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2020. He was also honored with the Chiefs Presidential Award in 1993 and the Service Award in 2016.

Fans are invited to celebrate his career by sharing photos and memories at <a href="http://chiefs.com/wolfmemories">chiefs.com/wolfmemories</a>. Meers will remain connected to the organization as a consultant and backup KC Wolf as the team searches for his successor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750177324705.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After 35 years of high-fives, hijinks and heartwarming community work, Dan Meers, the man behind the Kansas City Chiefs' iconic mascot KC Wolf, has officially retired.The announcement came Tuesday on National Mascot Day, marking the end of a legendary run that began in 1990 when Meers became the original KC Wolf — a role he has held ever since, making him the longest-tenured mascot in NFL history.“Dan Meers has been the heart and soul behind KC Wolf for 35 years,” said Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt. “He helped establish KC Wolf not only as a source of energy and enthusiasm on gamedays, but as a symbol of pride and passion for all of Chiefs Kingdom.”A St. Charles, Missouri, native, Meers graduated from the University of Missouri in 1990 after a standout stint as Truman the Tiger, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top college mascots. After a brief time as Fredbird with the St. Louis Cardinals, he joined the Chiefs full time following the debut of KC Wolf in 1989.Over the next three and a half decades, Meers donned the furry suit at 375 Chiefs games — including 307 regular-season and postseason appearances at Arrowhead Stadium — and took KC Wolf to six international contests and five Super Bowls. He was part of three Super Bowl titles and represented the team at 14 Pro Bowls.“To say I’m a blessed man is an understatement,” Meers said. “For the past 35 years I’ve had my dream job. I’ve worked for the team I love, in the city I love, with the people I love. I have memories and stories that will last me a lifetime.”Beyond the field, Meers made more than 10,000 appearances as KC Wolf at schools, weddings, hospitals, military bases and charity events across 38 states and 12 countries. He built a reputation as a motivational speaker and author, donating all proceeds from his books to global missions and founding the nonprofit Character That Counts.KC Wolf became the first NFL mascot inducted into the Mascot Hall of Fame in 2006. Meers later became the only mascot ever inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2020. He was also honored with the Chiefs Presidential Award in 1993 and the Service Award in 2016.Fans are invited to celebrate his career by sharing photos and memories at <a href="http://chiefs.com/wolfmemories">chiefs.com/wolfmemories</a>. Meers will remain connected to the organization as a consultant and backup KC Wolf as the team searches for his successor.

KC Wolf hangs up the fur: Dan Meers retires after 35 years as beloved Chiefs mascot

<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 Tuesday, June 17, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=t36jq-18dcb2c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧🏀 Thunder one win away from title; ⚾ Royals open series in Lone Star State tonight

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Game 5 was starting to look like Game 1 all over again. Oklahoma City, at home, takes a huge lead. Indiana comes roaring back in the fourth quarter.

This time, the Thunder crafted a different ending — and a 3-2 lead in the NBA Finals was their reward.

Jalen Williams scored a career playoff-high 40 points, MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 31 and the Thunder moved one win from a title by beating the Pacers 120-109 on Monday night.

“We’re learning,” said Williams, whose previous playoff best was 34.

It was the 10th — and by far, the biggest — time the Thunder stars combined for more than 70 points in a game. Williams was 14 of 24 from the field, and Gilgeous-Alexander added 10 assists.

“It wasn’t a perfect game at all and there’s a lot of room for growth,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “But our improvement from Game 4 to Game 5 was critical.”

Pascal Siakam had 28 points for Indiana, which will host Game 6 on Thursday night. TJ McConnell added 18 for the Pacers, who whittled an 18-point deficit down to two in the fourth — then watched the Thunder pull away again, and for good.

“It kind of went away from us,” Siakam said. “But the fight was there.”

It was, but now everything favors the Thunder.

Teams that win Game 5 of an NBA Finals that was tied at 2-2 have gone on to win the series 23 times in 31 previous opportunities, or 74%. And teams with a 3-2 lead in the finals have won 40 times in 49 previous opportunities, or 82%.

Down by 18 late in the second quarter, the Pacers — the comeback kings of these playoffs, with as many wins in this postseason from 15 points down or more (five) than the rest of the league has combined, including in Game 1 of this series — did what they do, chipping away. And they did it with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyrese-haliburton-leg-nba-finals-54689ae8a2209e8710d38637f3d558e4">Tyrese Haliburton reduced to basically playing decoy</a>&nbsp;on offense because of a leg issue that he aggravated in the first quarter.

“He’s not 100%,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. “It’s pretty clear.”

Led by McConnell, who scored 13 points in just under seven minutes of the third, the Pacers got within five late in that quarter.

Then, Siakam went to work — a pair of free throws with 9:19 left got Indiana within four, then a 3-pointer about a minute later made it 95-93. In the play-by-play era of the NBA, starting with the 1997 playoffs, teams with leads of 15 points or more in the finals were 80-9.

Make that 81-9 now, and the Thunder are one win away from giving Oklahoma City its first NBA title.

“That was honestly the same exact game as Game 1,” Williams said. “Learning through these finals, that’s what makes a team good.”

One more win, and his team will be certified as great.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750167205079.jpeg" alt="Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) celebrates during the second half of Game 5 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Indiana Pacers, Monday, June 16, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)" />
 <figcaption>Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso (9) celebrates during the second half of Game 5 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Indiana Pacers, Monday, June 16, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)</figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Game 5 was starting to look like Game 1 all over again. Oklahoma City, at home, takes a huge lead. Indiana comes roaring back in the fourth quarter.Indiana won that one.This time, the Thunder crafted a different ending — and a 3-2 lead in the NBA Finals was their reward.Jalen Williams scored a career playoff-high 40 points, MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added 31 and the Thunder moved one win from a title by beating the Pacers 120-109 on Monday night.“We’re learning,” said Williams, whose previous playoff best was 34.It was the 10th — and by far, the biggest — time the Thunder stars combined for more than 70 points in a game. Williams was 14 of 24 from the field, and Gilgeous-Alexander added 10 assists.“It wasn’t a perfect game at all and there’s a lot of room for growth,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “But our improvement from Game 4 to Game 5 was critical.”Pascal Siakam had 28 points for Indiana, which will host Game 6 on Thursday night. TJ McConnell added 18 for the Pacers, who whittled an 18-point deficit down to two in the fourth — then watched the Thunder pull away again, and for good.“It kind of went away from us,” Siakam said. “But the fight was there.”It was, but now everything favors the Thunder.Teams that win Game 5 of an NBA Finals that was tied at 2-2 have gone on to win the series 23 times in 31 previous opportunities, or 74%. And teams with a 3-2 lead in the finals have won 40 times in 49 previous opportunities, or 82%.But Game 5 was not easy. Far from it.Down by 18 late in the second quarter, the Pacers — the comeback kings of these playoffs, with as many wins in this postseason from 15 points down or more (five) than the rest of the league has combined, including in Game 1 of this series — did what they do, chipping away. And they did it with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyrese-haliburton-leg-nba-finals-54689ae8a2209e8710d38637f3d558e4">Tyrese Haliburton reduced to basically playing decoy</a>&nbsp;on offense because of a leg issue that he aggravated in the first quarter.“He’s not 100%,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. “It’s pretty clear.”Led by McConnell, who scored 13 points in just under seven minutes of the third, the Pacers got within five late in that quarter.Then, Siakam went to work — a pair of free throws with 9:19 left got Indiana within four, then a 3-pointer about a minute later made it 95-93. In the play-by-play era of the NBA, starting with the 1997 playoffs, teams with leads of 15 points or more in the finals were 80-9.Make that 81-9 now, and the Thunder are one win away from giving Oklahoma City its first NBA title.“That was honestly the same exact game as Game 1,” Williams said. “Learning through these finals, that’s what makes a team good.”One more win, and his team will be certified as great.

🏀 Williams scores 40 points and Thunder win for a 3-2 NBA Finals lead over Pacers

<a href="http://glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com">GLEN GRUNWALD</a>

KINGMAN, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs got back on track Monday night, using timely hitting and solid pitching to defeat the Kingman Islanders 8-1 at Islander Field.

Right-hander Carson Harrell earned the win for the Monarchs, tossing 3.2 innings and allowing just one run on four hits while striking out six. The Monarchs bullpen took care of the rest, keeping the Islanders scoreless the remainder of the game.

Kingman struck first in the bottom of the first when Luke Clayton lined a single to center, driving in Hayden Oviatt to put the Islanders up 1-0. But the Monarchs quickly responded in the top of the second. Jarrett Herrmann drove in Blake Bradford with a double to left to even the score at 1-1.

Herrmann came up big again in the fourth with a two-run double to center, scoring AJ Mustow and Bradford to give Hutchinson a 3-1 lead. In the fifth, the Monarchs extended the advantage with three more runs, capped by a fielder’s choice from Tyler Mitchell that brought Mustow home.

The Monarchs added insurance in the sixth on a sacrifice fly by Jackson Legg and one more in the ninth when Bradford scored on a wild pitch.

Kingman starter Cooper Tannahill took the loss, going five innings and allowing six runs on eight hits. He struck out eight and walked three.

With the win, the Monarchs improved to 10-2 on the season and showed resilience after suffering a tough loss the night before.

Hutchinson returns to action Tuesday night for a home matchup at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is at 7pm with video and play-by-play on hutchpost.com and Monarchslive.tv.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750149993624.png" alt="Final-Hutch Monarchs win big in Kingman" />
 <figcaption>Final-Hutch Monarchs win big in Kingman</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="http://glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com">GLEN GRUNWALD</a>HutchpostKINGMAN, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs got back on track Monday night, using timely hitting and solid pitching to defeat the Kingman Islanders 8-1 at Islander Field.Right-hander Carson Harrell earned the win for the Monarchs, tossing 3.2 innings and allowing just one run on four hits while striking out six. The Monarchs bullpen took care of the rest, keeping the Islanders scoreless the remainder of the game.Kingman struck first in the bottom of the first when Luke Clayton lined a single to center, driving in Hayden Oviatt to put the Islanders up 1-0. But the Monarchs quickly responded in the top of the second. Jarrett Herrmann drove in Blake Bradford with a double to left to even the score at 1-1.Herrmann came up big again in the fourth with a two-run double to center, scoring AJ Mustow and Bradford to give Hutchinson a 3-1 lead. In the fifth, the Monarchs extended the advantage with three more runs, capped by a fielder’s choice from Tyler Mitchell that brought Mustow home.The Monarchs added insurance in the sixth on a sacrifice fly by Jackson Legg and one more in the ninth when Bradford scored on a wild pitch.Kingman starter Cooper Tannahill took the loss, going five innings and allowing six runs on eight hits. He struck out eight and walked three.With the win, the Monarchs improved to 10-2 on the season and showed resilience after suffering a tough loss the night before.Hutchinson returns to action Tuesday night for a home matchup at Hobart-Detter Field. First pitch is at 7pm with video and play-by-play on hutchpost.com and Monarchslive.tv.

⚾ Monarchs bounce back with convincing win over Islanders

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

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, an annual East vs. West high school football all-star game that showcases the state’s top senior talent, will kick off Saturday at 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City. The game returns to Dodge City for the first time since 2019, bringing with it a full week of events that support the mission of <a href="https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/about">Shriners Children’s</a>.

More than just a football game, the Kansas Shrine Bowl represents a statewide philanthropic effort. Since its inception in 1974, the Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. has raised nearly $4 million for Shriners Children’s, a world-renowned nonprofit healthcare system specializing in pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

Shriners Children's is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with its closest hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, which specializes in orthopaedics.

The West squad includes several local standouts: Terrell King (Hutchinson), Owen Schmidt (Pratt), Henry Hecox (Moundridge), Landon Harp and Cooper Marx (Andale), Catch Delaney (McPherson), Karter Gonzalez (Hesston), Connor Herman (Halstead), and Bodey Redenbaugh (Buhler). Hutchinson’s Mike Vernon and Hesston’s Tyson Bauerle will serve as assistant coaches for the West. The West team is currently holding its camp at Hutchinson Community College.

Fans can listen to the broadcast on a statewide Eagle Media network, including the flagship station, <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Country 102.9-FM</a> KHUT in Hutchinson, as well as affiliate stations in Great Bend (KVGB-FM), Hays (KKQY-FM), Salina (KINA-AM/FM), Junction City (KJCK-AM/FM), Manhattan (KQLA), plus out-of-network stations in Coffeyville (KGGF) and Beloit (KVSV-AM/FM).

Each year, more than 400 seniors from all classifications, from six-man to Class 6A, are nominated by their coaches. From there, a selection committee comprised of media members and Shrine Bowl coaches narrows the field to 88 players, 44 on each side.

“It’s a tough roster to make,” said Brice Kesler, executive director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “Once they’re nominated, media across the state vote, and our coaches from each classification help select two players each. It’s all structured to ensure statewide representation, both geographically and across school sizes.”

Strict rules are in place, as no more than two players from the same school, and no more than three schools represented twice. If a selected player declines, alternates from the nomination pool are brought in, often relaxing the original restrictions.

“We aim to spread the opportunity around,” Kesler said. “It’s about giving communities across Kansas a chance to celebrate their student-athletes while also contributing to a greater cause.”

Among the most meaningful events of Shrine Bowl week is the Hospital Experience, a series of sessions where players, cheerleaders, and band members meet Shriners Children’s patient ambassadors.

“This is the heart of the week,” Kesler said. “These ambassadors, from toddlers to young adults, share their journeys with our athletes. Many have overcome challenges from scoliosis to amputations and burns. They help participants understand what resilience truly looks like.”

The goal, Kesler said, is more than awareness.

“They show our athletes that a so-called disability can be turned into a superpower,” he said. “You can’t walk away from that unchanged.”

The Kansas Shrine Bowl also hosts the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp and All-Star Cheer Camp, giving nearly 400 students the chance to participate in the weekend's festivities.

Since its inception, the Shrine Bowl has been played in nearly every corner of Kansas, from Lawrence to Hays and Pittsburg to Hutchinson. As of 2024, the West leads the series 31-18-2.

But the scoreboard is only a small part of the story.

“We want to involve as many communities as possible,” Kesler said. “That increases fundraising reach and also builds awareness. Families might not know that Shriners Children’s exists or that help is available. We want them to know.”

Corporate sponsors and donors will be recognized at halftime, as will community partners who help make the game a reality each year.

“There’s so many people involved behind the scenes,” Kesler said. “Whether it’s financial support, volunteer hours, or helping spread the word, it all makes a difference.”

Kickoff for the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday in Dodge City.

You can find more information regarding the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl by <a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">clicking here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750079718324.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Shrine Bowl" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Shrine Bowl</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostDODGE CITY, Kan. — The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl, an annual East vs. West high school football all-star game that showcases the state’s top senior talent, will kick off Saturday at 7 p.m. at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City. The game returns to Dodge City for the first time since 2019, bringing with it a full week of events that support the mission of <a href="https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/about">Shriners Children’s</a>.More than just a football game, the Kansas Shrine Bowl represents a statewide philanthropic effort. Since its inception in 1974, the Shrine Bowl of Kansas, Inc. has raised nearly $4 million for Shriners Children’s, a world-renowned nonprofit healthcare system specializing in pediatric specialty care regardless of a family’s ability to pay.Shriners Children's is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, with its closest hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, which specializes in orthopaedics.The West squad includes several local standouts: Terrell King (Hutchinson), Owen Schmidt (Pratt), Henry Hecox (Moundridge), Landon Harp and Cooper Marx (Andale), Catch Delaney (McPherson), Karter Gonzalez (Hesston), Connor Herman (Halstead), and Bodey Redenbaugh (Buhler). Hutchinson’s Mike Vernon and Hesston’s Tyson Bauerle will serve as assistant coaches for the West. The West team is currently holding its camp at Hutchinson Community College.Fans can listen to the broadcast on a statewide Eagle Media network, including the flagship station, <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">Country 102.9-FM</a> KHUT in Hutchinson, as well as affiliate stations in Great Bend (KVGB-FM), Hays (KKQY-FM), Salina (KINA-AM/FM), Junction City (KJCK-AM/FM), Manhattan (KQLA), plus out-of-network stations in Coffeyville (KGGF) and Beloit (KVSV-AM/FM).<h2>Forming The Rosters</h2>Each year, more than 400 seniors from all classifications, from six-man to Class 6A, are nominated by their coaches. From there, a selection committee comprised of media members and Shrine Bowl coaches narrows the field to 88 players, 44 on each side.“It’s a tough roster to make,” said Brice Kesler, executive director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “Once they’re nominated, media across the state vote, and our coaches from each classification help select two players each. It’s all structured to ensure statewide representation, both geographically and across school sizes.”Strict rules are in place, as no more than two players from the same school, and no more than three schools represented twice. If a selected player declines, alternates from the nomination pool are brought in, often relaxing the original restrictions.“We aim to spread the opportunity around,” Kesler said. “It’s about giving communities across Kansas a chance to celebrate their student-athletes while also contributing to a greater cause.”<h2>Life-Changing Perspective</h2>Among the most meaningful events of Shrine Bowl week is the Hospital Experience, a series of sessions where players, cheerleaders, and band members meet Shriners Children’s patient ambassadors.“This is the heart of the week,” Kesler said. “These ambassadors, from toddlers to young adults, share their journeys with our athletes. Many have overcome challenges from scoliosis to amputations and burns. They help participants understand what resilience truly looks like.”The goal, Kesler said, is more than awareness.“They show our athletes that a so-called disability can be turned into a superpower,” he said. “You can’t walk away from that unchanged.”<h2>Game Week Festivities</h2><ul>
 <li>Hospital Experience: Held Thursday and Friday for football players, band members and cheerleaders.
</li><li>Friday Night Charity Carnival: Featuring food trucks, carnival games, casino events and autograph sessions with players at the Dodge City Civic Center.
</li><li>Saturday Morning Parade: The largest Shrine parade in Kansas, showcasing bands, floats and Shriners from across the state.
</li><li>Fan Fest: A free event in the Memorial Stadium parking lot Saturday afternoon, sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas.
</li>
 </ul>The Kansas Shrine Bowl also hosts the Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp and All-Star Cheer Camp, giving nearly 400 students the chance to participate in the weekend's festivities.<h2>More Than a Game</h2>Since its inception, the Shrine Bowl has been played in nearly every corner of Kansas, from Lawrence to Hays and Pittsburg to Hutchinson. As of 2024, the West leads the series 31-18-2.But the scoreboard is only a small part of the story.“We want to involve as many communities as possible,” Kesler said. “That increases fundraising reach and also builds awareness. Families might not know that Shriners Children’s exists or that help is available. We want them to know.”Corporate sponsors and donors will be recognized at halftime, as will community partners who help make the game a reality each year.“There’s so many people involved behind the scenes,” Kesler said. “Whether it’s financial support, volunteer hours, or helping spread the word, it all makes a difference.”Kickoff for the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl is scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday in Dodge City.You can find more information regarding the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl by <a href="https://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">clicking here</a>.

🏈 Kansas Shrine Bowl highlights football, philanthropy in Dodge City

<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 Monday, June 16, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jg7bd-18da81b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧⚾ Royals swept by A's; ⚾ Wind Surge win series over Hooks; ⚾ Monarchs lose on walk-off Sunday

<a href="http://www.glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com/">GLEN GRUNWALD</a>

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

DERBY, Kan. — The Derby Twins staged a dramatic comeback Sunday night, scoring three runs in the bottom of the ninth to walk off with a 9-8 victory over the Hutchinson Monarchs in front of a spirited home crowd.

Trailing 8-6 entering the final frame, the Twins got a leadoff double from M. Hamond that brought in C. Scott to trim the lead to one. D. Craig moved to third on the play before C. Richards delivered the decisive blow — a two-run single to left field that scored Hamond and Craig to seal the win.

Hutchinson used four pitchers in relief after building a 7-3 lead by the seventh inning, but couldn’t hold off Derby’s late surge. Russell Copous was tagged with the loss, while Ryan Koob picked up the win for the Twins.

Derby jumped ahead early in the second, capitalizing on a two-run single by G. Cooley and an error in center field that helped plate two more runs. C. Richards added an RBI groundout for a 3-0 lead.

The Monarchs responded in the fourth with a pair of RBI singles from J. Knox and O. Cross to tie the game at 3-3. Knox struck again in the fifth, ripping a two-run double to center that gave Hutchinson a 5-3 advantage.

Hutch pushed the lead to 7-3 in the seventh on an RBI single by C. Grimes and a bases-loaded walk to T. Mitchell. But Derby chipped away, scoring once in the seventh on a catcher’s error and twice more in the eighth on a clutch double by J. Lindahl.

J. Knox gave the Monarchs an 8-6 cushion in the top of the ninth by scoring on a wild pitch, but the lead would not hold.

The loss drops Hutchinson to 9-2 in the tightly contested Sunflower Collegiate League race, while the Twins gain momentum with a gritty comeback performance at Panther Field, in a game that was postponed from the beginning of the season due to wet fields in Derby.

Hutchinson travels to Kingman tonight to face the Kingman Islanders with first pitch at 7pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750071357830.png" alt="Final - Derby rallies in the bottom of the ninth to hand the Monarchs their second road loss" />
 <figcaption>Final - Derby rallies in the bottom of the ninth to hand the Monarchs their second road loss</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="http://www.glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com/">GLEN GRUNWALD</a><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com"></a>Hutch PostDERBY, Kan. — The Derby Twins staged a dramatic comeback Sunday night, scoring three runs in the bottom of the ninth to walk off with a 9-8 victory over the Hutchinson Monarchs in front of a spirited home crowd.Trailing 8-6 entering the final frame, the Twins got a leadoff double from M. Hamond that brought in C. Scott to trim the lead to one. D. Craig moved to third on the play before C. Richards delivered the decisive blow — a two-run single to left field that scored Hamond and Craig to seal the win.Hutchinson used four pitchers in relief after building a 7-3 lead by the seventh inning, but couldn’t hold off Derby’s late surge. Russell Copous was tagged with the loss, while Ryan Koob picked up the win for the Twins.Derby jumped ahead early in the second, capitalizing on a two-run single by G. Cooley and an error in center field that helped plate two more runs. C. Richards added an RBI groundout for a 3-0 lead.The Monarchs responded in the fourth with a pair of RBI singles from J. Knox and O. Cross to tie the game at 3-3. Knox struck again in the fifth, ripping a two-run double to center that gave Hutchinson a 5-3 advantage.Hutch pushed the lead to 7-3 in the seventh on an RBI single by C. Grimes and a bases-loaded walk to T. Mitchell. But Derby chipped away, scoring once in the seventh on a catcher’s error and twice more in the eighth on a clutch double by J. Lindahl.J. Knox gave the Monarchs an 8-6 cushion in the top of the ninth by scoring on a wild pitch, but the lead would not hold.The loss drops Hutchinson to 9-2 in the tightly contested Sunflower Collegiate League race, while the Twins gain momentum with a gritty comeback performance at Panther Field, in a game that was postponed from the beginning of the season due to wet fields in Derby.Hutchinson travels to Kingman tonight to face the Kingman Islanders with first pitch at 7pm.

⚾ Derby Twins rally in ninth to edge Monarchs

OAKMONT, Pa. (AP) — J.J. Spaun endured the toughest test in golf on the toughest course in America in the worst kind of conditions. And then he turned this miserable, wet Sunday at Oakmont into a finish as memorable as any in the U.S. Open.

The champion not many expected delivered two shots no one will forget.

<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934396850620019053" target="_blank">First came his driver on the 314-yard 17th hole onto the green</a>&nbsp;for a two-putt birdie that gave him the lead. Then, needing two putts from 65 feet on the 18th to win, he finished his storybook Open by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934403009716347117" target="_blank">holing the longest putt all week at Oakmont</a>&nbsp;for birdie and a 2-over 72.

For all the mess Oakmont became in a series of downpours, for all the bad breaks and bad lies and bad shots that cost so many contenders, Spaun overcame a start that would have ended hopes of more seasoned players and weathered the pressure to claim his greatest prize.

“I never thought I would be here holding this trophy,” said Spaun, who finished last year at No. 119 in the world and moved up to No. 8 with his U.S. Open victory. “I always had aspirations and dreams. I never knew what my ceiling was. I’m just trying to be the best golfer I can be.

“I’m happy to display that here at Oakmont.”

He finished at 1-under 279, the sole survivor to par, and won by two shots over Robert MacIntyre of Scotland,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934403971096936700" target="_blank">who watched the finish from a scoring room and could only applaud the stunning conclusion.</a>

Five players shared the lead with an hour to go. Four players were still tied as the U.S. Open made its way to the final four holes that frustrated Sam Burns and Tyrrell Hatton, and crushed the hopes of Adam Scott and Carlos Ortiz.

The last man standing was Spaun, the 34-year-old Californian with an eerie resemblance to the late Pittsburgh Steelers great Franco Harris.

Never mind that Spaun lacked the pedigree of so many players groomed in elite competition, that he had only one PGA Tour title until Sunday, was playing in only his second U.S. Open and had never cracked the top 20 in his previous eight majors.

The ending was magical. The road leading to his U.S. Open title was hard work and resiliency, especially Sunday. One shot behind to start the final round, he had five bogeys in six holes, including a shot that hit the pin on No. 2 and caromed 35 yards back into the fairway, turning birdie into a bogey.

“It felt like as bad as things were going, I just still tried to just commit to every shot. I tried to just continue to dig deep. I’ve been doing it my whole life,” Spaun said. “I think that’s been the biggest difference this year has been being able to do that. Fortunately, I dug very deep on the back nine, and things went my way, and here we are with the trophy.”

Burns had a two-shot lead going to the 11th tee, made a double bogey from a divot in the first cut on No. 11 and from a lie in the fairway on No. 15 so wet he thought he deserved relief. He shot 78.

“It’s a tough golf course, and I didn’t have my best stuff, and clearly it showed,” he said.

Scott, trying to become the first player to go more than 11 years between major titles, was tied for the lead with five holes to play. One of the best drivers could no longer find the fairway. He played them in 5 over and shot 79.

“I missed the fairway. I hadn’t done that all week really. Then I did, and I paid the price and lost a lot of shots out there,” Scott said.

Ortiz and Hatton also slashed away in slushy lies, all making mistakes that cost them a chance to survive this beast of day.

The rain that put Oakmont on the edge of being unplayable might have saved Spaun.

He was four shots behind and facing the tough ninth hole. And then came a rain delay of 1 hour, 37 minutes.

“The weather delay changed the whole vibe of the day,” Spaun said.

Remarkably, he made only one bogey the rest of the way.

MacIntyre, the 28-year-old from Oban toughened by the Scottish game of Shinty, became the new target. He also struggled at the start and fell nine shots behind at one point. But he birdied the 17th and split the fairway on the 18th for a key par, a 68 and the clubhouse lead.

Three groups later, Spaun delivered what looked like the winner on the 17th, a powerful fade that rolled onto the green like a putt and settled 18 feet behind the cup.

On the final putt, he was helped by Viktor Hovland being on the same line and going first. Spaun rapped it through the soaked turf, walked to the left to watch it break right toward the hole and watched it dropped as thousands of rain-soaked spectators erupted.

He raised both arms and tossed his putter, jumping into the arms of caddie Mark Carens.

The celebration carried into those who lost the battle.

Hatton was talking with reporters, bemoaning a bad break on the 17th ended his chances of winning. He watched the Spaun’s putt and it brightened his mood.

“Unbelievable. What a putt to win. That’s incredible,” he said. “I’m sad about how I finished, but I’m very happy for J.J. To win a major in that fashion is amazing.”

Hovland, who shot 73 to finish third, saw it all — the putt at the end, the bogeys at the start.

“After his start, it just looked like he was out of it immediately,” Hovland said. “Everyone came back to the pack. I wasn’t expecting that really. I thought I had to shoot maybe 3-under par today to have a good chance, but obviously the conditions got really, really tough, and this golf course is just a beast.”

Hatton (72) and Ortiz (73), both part of LIV Golf and in serious contention at a major for the first time, tied for fourth along with Cameron Young (70). The consolation for Ortiz was getting into the Masters next year.

Scottie Scheffler, 10 shots behind early in the final round, was somehow still part of the conversation on the back nine. But he missed far too many birdie chances even three-putting from 12 feet no the 11th hole. The world’s No. 1 player finished with a 70 to tie for seventh with Jon Rahm (67) and Burns, his best friend who will feel the sting.

He had a double bogey by missing the green into a bad lie on the slope of a bunker. He missed a pair of 6-foot birdie putts to seize control. And when he made a mess of the 15th for another double bogey.

Through it all, Spaun emerged as a U.S. Open champion hardly anyone saw coming — not at the start of the year, not at the start of the round.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749782989477.png" alt="J.J. Spaun watches his tee shot on the seventh hole during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>J.J. Spaun watches his tee shot on the seventh hole during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Oakmont, Pa. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>OAKMONT, Pa. (AP) — J.J. Spaun endured the toughest test in golf on the toughest course in America in the worst kind of conditions. And then he turned this miserable, wet Sunday at Oakmont into a finish as memorable as any in the U.S. Open.The champion not many expected delivered two shots no one will forget.<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934396850620019053" target="_blank">First came his driver on the 314-yard 17th hole onto the green</a>&nbsp;for a two-putt birdie that gave him the lead. Then, needing two putts from 65 feet on the 18th to win, he finished his storybook Open by&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934403009716347117" target="_blank">holing the longest putt all week at Oakmont</a>&nbsp;for birdie and a 2-over 72.For all the mess Oakmont became in a series of downpours, for all the bad breaks and bad lies and bad shots that cost so many contenders, Spaun overcame a start that would have ended hopes of more seasoned players and weathered the pressure to claim his greatest prize.“I never thought I would be here holding this trophy,” said Spaun, who finished last year at No. 119 in the world and moved up to No. 8 with his U.S. Open victory. “I always had aspirations and dreams. I never knew what my ceiling was. I’m just trying to be the best golfer I can be.“I’m happy to display that here at Oakmont.”He finished at 1-under 279, the sole survivor to par, and won by two shots over Robert MacIntyre of Scotland,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/usopengolf/status/1934403971096936700" target="_blank">who watched the finish from a scoring room and could only applaud the stunning conclusion.</a>Five players shared the lead with an hour to go. Four players were still tied as the U.S. Open made its way to the final four holes that frustrated Sam Burns and Tyrrell Hatton, and crushed the hopes of Adam Scott and Carlos Ortiz.The last man standing was Spaun, the 34-year-old Californian with an eerie resemblance to the late Pittsburgh Steelers great Franco Harris.Never mind that Spaun lacked the pedigree of so many players groomed in elite competition, that he had only one PGA Tour title until Sunday, was playing in only his second U.S. Open and had never cracked the top 20 in his previous eight majors.The ending was magical. The road leading to his U.S. Open title was hard work and resiliency, especially Sunday. One shot behind to start the final round, he had five bogeys in six holes, including a shot that hit the pin on No. 2 and caromed 35 yards back into the fairway, turning birdie into a bogey.“It felt like as bad as things were going, I just still tried to just commit to every shot. I tried to just continue to dig deep. I’ve been doing it my whole life,” Spaun said. “I think that’s been the biggest difference this year has been being able to do that. Fortunately, I dug very deep on the back nine, and things went my way, and here we are with the trophy.”It was calamity for so many others.Burns had a two-shot lead going to the 11th tee, made a double bogey from a divot in the first cut on No. 11 and from a lie in the fairway on No. 15 so wet he thought he deserved relief. He shot 78.“It’s a tough golf course, and I didn’t have my best stuff, and clearly it showed,” he said.Scott, trying to become the first player to go more than 11 years between major titles, was tied for the lead with five holes to play. One of the best drivers could no longer find the fairway. He played them in 5 over and shot 79.“I missed the fairway. I hadn’t done that all week really. Then I did, and I paid the price and lost a lot of shots out there,” Scott said.Ortiz and Hatton also slashed away in slushy lies, all making mistakes that cost them a chance to survive this beast of day.The rain that put Oakmont on the edge of being unplayable might have saved Spaun.He was four shots behind and facing the tough ninth hole. And then came a rain delay of 1 hour, 37 minutes.“The weather delay changed the whole vibe of the day,” Spaun said.Remarkably, he made only one bogey the rest of the way.But oh, that finish.MacIntyre, the 28-year-old from Oban toughened by the Scottish game of Shinty, became the new target. He also struggled at the start and fell nine shots behind at one point. But he birdied the 17th and split the fairway on the 18th for a key par, a 68 and the clubhouse lead.Three groups later, Spaun delivered what looked like the winner on the 17th, a powerful fade that rolled onto the green like a putt and settled 18 feet behind the cup.On the final putt, he was helped by Viktor Hovland being on the same line and going first. Spaun rapped it through the soaked turf, walked to the left to watch it break right toward the hole and watched it dropped as thousands of rain-soaked spectators erupted.He raised both arms and tossed his putter, jumping into the arms of caddie Mark Carens.The celebration carried into those who lost the battle.Hatton was talking with reporters, bemoaning a bad break on the 17th ended his chances of winning. He watched the Spaun’s putt and it brightened his mood.“Unbelievable. What a putt to win. That’s incredible,” he said. “I’m sad about how I finished, but I’m very happy for J.J. To win a major in that fashion is amazing.”Hovland, who shot 73 to finish third, saw it all — the putt at the end, the bogeys at the start.“After his start, it just looked like he was out of it immediately,” Hovland said. “Everyone came back to the pack. I wasn’t expecting that really. I thought I had to shoot maybe 3-under par today to have a good chance, but obviously the conditions got really, really tough, and this golf course is just a beast.”Hatton (72) and Ortiz (73), both part of LIV Golf and in serious contention at a major for the first time, tied for fourth along with Cameron Young (70). The consolation for Ortiz was getting into the Masters next year.Scottie Scheffler, 10 shots behind early in the final round, was somehow still part of the conversation on the back nine. But he missed far too many birdie chances even three-putting from 12 feet no the 11th hole. The world’s No. 1 player finished with a 70 to tie for seventh with Jon Rahm (67) and Burns, his best friend who will feel the sting.He had a double bogey by missing the green into a bad lie on the slope of a bunker. He missed a pair of 6-foot birdie putts to seize control. And when he made a mess of the 15th for another double bogey.Through it all, Spaun emerged as a U.S. Open champion hardly anyone saw coming — not at the start of the year, not at the start of the round.

⛳ J.J. Spaun weathers the worst of wet Oakmont to win US Open

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750041521086.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (June 15, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ben-ross-805346">Ben Ross</a>&nbsp;hit a go-ahead three-run home run in a 5-4 win for the Wichita Wind Surge over the Corpus Christi Hooks at Equity Bank Park.
Trevor Austin lined a two-run home run over the left field wall down near the corner in the top of the second. After&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/nate-baez-686960">Nate Baez</a>&nbsp;tripled to the gap, he scored on an infield groundout in the home half of the second.
The call and response scoring came again in the fourth. Pascanel Ferreras doubled home Ryan Wrobleski, and then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ricardo-olivar-691627">Ricardo Olivar</a>&nbsp;connected on a high-arcing home run, his eighth of the season, out to left field to make the score 3-2 Corpus Christi.
Ross smoked a three-run home run, his fifth of the season, onto the left field berm in the bottom of the sixth to give Wichita a 5-3 lead.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1934337789522297032&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-slug-two-homers-in-win-against-the-hooks&amp;sessionId=3906954b744e548d4ebf32917e2d62aaf8c3339b&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1934337789522297032"></iframe></div>
An infield groundout before the stretch in the seventh put the Hooks within a run, but they would not score the rest of the game.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1934355297163993348&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-slug-two-homers-in-win-against-the-hooks&amp;sessionId=3906954b744e548d4ebf32917e2d62aaf8c3339b&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1934355297163993348"></iframe></div>
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/tanner-andrews-681084">Tanner Andrews</a>&nbsp;made his debut with the Wind Surge, striking a man out with a hit in the sixth inning to earn the win.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/mike-paredes-702474">Mike Paredes</a>&nbsp;struck out two over the eighth and ninth innings against one hit to get his first save of the season.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Aaron Rozek is the new individual Wichita Wind Surge franchise strikeout leader (207).</li>
<li>Tanner Andrews made his Wind Surge debut, receiving the win after an inning of relief action with a hit and a strikeout.</li>
<li>Mike Paredes records his first save of the season and first-ever with Wichita.</li>
<li>The Wind Surge took five of six against Corpus Christi, marking the second time they have won five of six games in a home series against a Texas League South opponent (Midland RockHounds, Opening Week, April 8-13, 2025).</li>
<li>Wichita travels to Arkansas for a series at Dickey-Stephens Park against the Travelers next week.</li>
</ul>
The Wind Surge travel to North Little Rock to begin a series with the Arkansas Travelers on June 17 at 6:35 PM at Dickey-Stephens Park. Wichita returns to Equity Bank Park for a series with the Springfield Cardinals on June 24. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge hit 2 home runs in win Sunday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Kurtz hit a solo ninth-inning homer to rally the Athletics to a 3-2 win and three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Kurtz hit Carlos Estévez’s (2-2) fastball 411 feet to right-center for his sixth home run. It gave the Athletics their first sweep at Kauffman Stadium since September 2016.

T.J. Ferguson (2-2) retired all four batters he faced, striking out two to earn the win and Mason Miller struck out two for his 14th save.

The Royals matched their longest losing streak of the season while dropping all six games of their homestand. Kansas City has lost six straight home series.

Austin Wynns hit a two-run homer to left-center off reliever John Schreiber, tying the game 2-2 in the sixth. It was Wynns’ fifth home run and second in five games since his acquisition from the Cincinnati Reds.

Royals starter Noah Cameron struck out seven in five scoreless innings.

After Kyle Isbel doubled off first baseman Kurtz’s glove to open the third, Bobby Witt Jr. snapped an 0-for-16 slump with an RBI double and moved to third on Jeffrey Springs’ balk before scoring on Vinnie Pasquantino’s single for a 2-0 lead.

With the Athletics trailing 2-0 in the fifth, Lawrence Butler hit a two-out double, and then was caught stealing third to end the inning. Butler was initially ruled safe by third base umpire Adrian Johnson, who quickly changed his call, prompting an unsuccessful argument from A’s manager Mark Kotsay.

The Royals have been outscored 44-15 in the sixth inning.

The Athletics host the Houston Astros on Monday to open a four-game series.

RHP Seth Lugo (3-5, 3.18) opens the Royals road series in Texas on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750068938826.jpeg" alt="Athletics' Nick Kurtz watches his go-ahead home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, June 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Athletics' Nick Kurtz watches his go-ahead home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, June 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Kurtz hit a solo ninth-inning homer to rally the Athletics to a 3-2 win and three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.Kurtz hit Carlos Estévez’s (2-2) fastball 411 feet to right-center for his sixth home run. It gave the Athletics their first sweep at Kauffman Stadium since September 2016.T.J. Ferguson (2-2) retired all four batters he faced, striking out two to earn the win and Mason Miller struck out two for his 14th save.The Royals matched their longest losing streak of the season while dropping all six games of their homestand. Kansas City has lost six straight home series.Austin Wynns hit a two-run homer to left-center off reliever John Schreiber, tying the game 2-2 in the sixth. It was Wynns’ fifth home run and second in five games since his acquisition from the Cincinnati Reds.Royals starter Noah Cameron struck out seven in five scoreless innings.After Kyle Isbel doubled off first baseman Kurtz’s glove to open the third, Bobby Witt Jr. snapped an 0-for-16 slump with an RBI double and moved to third on Jeffrey Springs’ balk before scoring on Vinnie Pasquantino’s single for a 2-0 lead.<h2>Key moment</h2>With the Athletics trailing 2-0 in the fifth, Lawrence Butler hit a two-out double, and then was caught stealing third to end the inning. Butler was initially ruled safe by third base umpire Adrian Johnson, who quickly changed his call, prompting an unsuccessful argument from A’s manager Mark Kotsay.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals have been outscored 44-15 in the sixth inning.<h2>Up next</h2>The Athletics host the Houston Astros on Monday to open a four-game series.RHP Seth Lugo (3-5, 3.18) opens the Royals road series in Texas on Tuesday.

⚾ Kurtz hits a solo homer to rally the Athletics to a win and sweep of the Royals

<a href="http://www.glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com">By Glen Grunwald</a>

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs used a string of clutch hits and a strong start from Ethan Giesbrecht to defeat the Great Bend Bat Cats 9-5 Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field in front of 570 fans — the eighth-largest crowd in Monarchs history.

On a picturesque evening for baseball, Hutchinson jumped out early and never trailed, fueled by a three-run third inning and a two-run homer by Jackson Legg in the fifth. The Monarchs improved their record to 9-1 with a balanced offensive effort and timely execution, particularly in the middle innings.

Giesbrecht earned the win for Hutchinson, tossing six innings and allowing just two runs on four hits. The right-hander struck out two and walked one.

Great Bend starter Carson Bougher was tagged with the loss after surrendering five runs on eight hits over 4.2 innings of work.

Legg led the Monarchs offensively, finishing with a home run, single, and three RBIs. In the third, Legg's RBI single scored J Herrmann, followed by a two-run double from AJ Mustow that pushed the lead to 3-0. Legg’s two-run blast in the fifth extended the lead to 5-2.

The Bat Cats trimmed the deficit to 6-3 in the seventh after an RBI single by Peanut Brazzle, but the Monarchs answered with a three-run eighth, capitalizing on a hit-by-pitch, a walk, a wild pitch, and a fielder’s choice.

Five different Monarchs were hit-by-pitches in the game. Two Bat Cats were also hit-by-pitches.

Elias Leon’s RBI single in the ninth brought Great Bend within four, but the Monarchs closed it out without further damage when Aiden Sowers came in to finish off the ninth and shut the Bat Cats down.

The game also served as Cancer Awareness Night, adding a special significance to one of the season's best atmospheres.

Hutchinson will return to action at Panther Field in Derby to take on the Twins in a make up game that postponed from earlier in June due to wet field conditions in Derby. Hutch will then travel to Kingman on Monday night. The next home game for the Monarchs will be Tuesday, June 17th versus the Islanders at 7pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749960819703.png" alt="Final - Hutchinson defeats Bat Cats for second straight night using timely hitting and great defense" />
 <figcaption>Final - Hutchinson defeats Bat Cats for second straight night using timely hitting and great defense</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="http://www.glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com">By Glen Grunwald</a>HutchpostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs used a string of clutch hits and a strong start from Ethan Giesbrecht to defeat the Great Bend Bat Cats 9-5 Saturday night at Hobart-Detter Field in front of 570 fans — the eighth-largest crowd in Monarchs history.On a picturesque evening for baseball, Hutchinson jumped out early and never trailed, fueled by a three-run third inning and a two-run homer by Jackson Legg in the fifth. The Monarchs improved their record to 9-1 with a balanced offensive effort and timely execution, particularly in the middle innings.Giesbrecht earned the win for Hutchinson, tossing six innings and allowing just two runs on four hits. The right-hander struck out two and walked one.Great Bend starter Carson Bougher was tagged with the loss after surrendering five runs on eight hits over 4.2 innings of work.Legg led the Monarchs offensively, finishing with a home run, single, and three RBIs. In the third, Legg's RBI single scored J Herrmann, followed by a two-run double from AJ Mustow that pushed the lead to 3-0. Legg’s two-run blast in the fifth extended the lead to 5-2.The Bat Cats trimmed the deficit to 6-3 in the seventh after an RBI single by Peanut Brazzle, but the Monarchs answered with a three-run eighth, capitalizing on a hit-by-pitch, a walk, a wild pitch, and a fielder’s choice.Five different Monarchs were hit-by-pitches in the game. Two Bat Cats were also hit-by-pitches.Elias Leon’s RBI single in the ninth brought Great Bend within four, but the Monarchs closed it out without further damage when Aiden Sowers came in to finish off the ninth and shut the Bat Cats down.The game also served as Cancer Awareness Night, adding a special significance to one of the season's best atmospheres.Hutchinson will return to action at Panther Field in Derby to take on the Twins in a make up game that postponed from earlier in June due to wet field conditions in Derby. Hutch will then travel to Kingman on Monday night. The next home game for the Monarchs will be Tuesday, June 17th versus the Islanders at 7pm.

⚾ Hutch Monarchs use timely hitting to down Bat Cats on Cancer Awareness Night

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jacob Lopez became the latest pitcher to shut down the Royals with six innings of three-hit ball, Max Muncy and Lawrence Butler hit homers, and the Athletics beat struggling Kansas City 4-0 on Saturday.

Lopez (1-4) walked one and struck out nine while winning for the second time in his big league career. His other victory came on Oct. 1, 2023, when Lopez allowed five runs while pitching for the Rays in a game against Toronto.

He was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas last month and had been 0-3 with a 6.88 ERA in three games since.

Michael Kelly pitched two perfect innings in relief and Hogan Harris finished off the four-hitter for the A's.

Muncy followed a leadoff walk by Tyler Soderstrom in the second inning with his fifth homer of the year, a line-drive into the A's bullpen off Kansas City starter Michael Lorenzen. Lawrence homered off reliever Daniel Lynch IV in the seventh.

Lorenzen (4-7) allowed three runs on four hits and four walks over six innings. He struck out four.

The Royals have lost the first five games on their homestand after getting swept by the Yankees earlier in the week, then losing the first two against the A's. They've lost seven of their last eight overall and 13 of their last 16 at Kauffman Stadium.

Meanwhile, the A's have finally found some kind of stride. They'd lost 13 of their last 16 games on their way to Kansas City, and were coming off a three-game sweep by the Angels in which they allowed 15 runs.

Muncy homered off an 85 mph slider from Lorenzen to give the A's all the offense they needed.

Kansas City has been shut out in two of its last three games.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jacob Lopez became the latest pitcher to shut down the Royals with six innings of three-hit ball, Max Muncy and Lawrence Butler hit homers, and the Athletics beat struggling Kansas City 4-0 on Saturday.Lopez (1-4) walked one and struck out nine while winning for the second time in his big league career. His other victory came on Oct. 1, 2023, when Lopez allowed five runs while pitching for the Rays in a game against Toronto.He was recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas last month and had been 0-3 with a 6.88 ERA in three games since.Michael Kelly pitched two perfect innings in relief and Hogan Harris finished off the four-hitter for the A's.Muncy followed a leadoff walk by Tyler Soderstrom in the second inning with his fifth homer of the year, a line-drive into the A's bullpen off Kansas City starter Michael Lorenzen. Lawrence homered off reliever Daniel Lynch IV in the seventh.Lorenzen (4-7) allowed three runs on four hits and four walks over six innings. He struck out four.The Royals have lost the first five games on their homestand after getting swept by the Yankees earlier in the week, then losing the first two against the A's. They've lost seven of their last eight overall and 13 of their last 16 at Kauffman Stadium.Meanwhile, the A's have finally found some kind of stride. They'd lost 13 of their last 16 games on their way to Kansas City, and were coming off a three-game sweep by the Angels in which they allowed 15 runs.<h2>Key moment</h2>Muncy homered off an 85 mph slider from Lorenzen to give the A's all the offense they needed.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City has been shut out in two of its last three games.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾Jacob Lopez leads A's to victory over struggling Royals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs (8-1) will host the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park tonight with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m. Tonight is Cancer Awareness night. Free admission. Good will donations go to support the Reno County Cancer Foundation.

The Monarchs are slated for 19 home games with all of those games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Eagle Media's Glen Grunwald will have the play-by-play call tonight with Matt Peterson providing the video stream..&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749936777719.jpeg" alt="Game Day-Hutch Monarchs vs the Great Bend Bat Cats for Cancer Awareness Night" />
 <figcaption>Game Day-Hutch Monarchs vs the Great Bend Bat Cats for Cancer Awareness Night</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Monarchs (8-1) will host the Great Bend Bat Cats at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park tonight with the first pitch scheduled for 7 p.m. Tonight is Cancer Awareness night. Free admission. Good will donations go to support the Reno County Cancer Foundation.The Monarchs are slated for 19 home games with all of those games set to be video streamed on <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8dc5bdf3-e9a7-4011-9b4a-2b453688d13f">hutchpost.com</a> as well as on the <a href="http://www.monarchslive.tv">monarchslive.tv</a> channel. Eagle Media's Glen Grunwald will have the play-by-play call tonight with Matt Peterson providing the video stream..&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2463676?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🎥⚾ WATCH LIVE: Hutch Monarchs host Great Bend Bat Cats on Cancer Awareness Night

GREAT BEND, Kan. -Both teams were strong on the bump on Friday, but Hutchinson Monarchs hung on and defeated the Great Bend Bat Cats 2-1.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Monarch Russell Copous pitched one and two-thirds innings of scoreless ball for Hutchinson Monarchs in relief to get the win. The right-handed pitcher allowed one hit, striking out two and walking none.

The Monarchs accumulated 11 hits in the game. Vassart led Hutchinson Monarchs with two runs batted in from the number seven spot in the lineup. The infielder went 1-for-3 on the day. JJ Spafford, Keegan Demmer, Jarrett Herrmann, and Jeter Worthley each collected two hits for Hutchinson Monarchs.&nbsp; 

The Hutchinson Monarch defense turned three double plays in the game. Hutchinson will play at home on Saturday again against the Bat Cats in Hutchinson on Saturday night. It is Cancer Awareness night for the Monarchs with all proceeds going to benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749959531834.png" alt="Final - Monarchs defeats Bat Cats by scoring late&nbsp; in Great Bend" />
 <figcaption>Final - Monarchs defeats Bat Cats by scoring late&nbsp; in Great Bend</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="http://www.glen.grunwald@eaglemedia.com">By Glen Grunwald</a>HutchpostGREAT BEND, Kan. -Both teams were strong on the bump on Friday, but Hutchinson Monarchs hung on and defeated the Great Bend Bat Cats 2-1.&nbsp; &nbsp;Monarch Russell Copous pitched one and two-thirds innings of scoreless ball for Hutchinson Monarchs in relief to get the win. The right-handed pitcher allowed one hit, striking out two and walking none.The Monarchs accumulated 11 hits in the game. Vassart led Hutchinson Monarchs with two runs batted in from the number seven spot in the lineup. The infielder went 1-for-3 on the day. JJ Spafford, Keegan Demmer, Jarrett Herrmann, and Jeter Worthley each collected two hits for Hutchinson Monarchs.&nbsp; The Hutchinson Monarch defense turned three double plays in the game. Hutchinson will play at home on Saturday again against the Bat Cats in Hutchinson on Saturday night. It is Cancer Awareness night for the Monarchs with all proceeds going to benefit the Cancer Council of Reno County.

⚾ Hutchinson Monarchs defeats Great Bend Bat Cats in pitcher's duel

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Wynns and Luis Urías hit home runs, Luis Severino pitched 7 2/3 strong innings, and the Athletics beat Kansas City 6-4 on Friday night to end a 14-game road losing streak and hand the Royals their fourth straight loss.

Severino (2-6) allowed six hits and a first-inning run on an RBI double by Salvador Perez. He surrendered 17 hits and 13 earned runs in his two previous starts covering 11 1/3 innings.

Wynns hit his fourth home run — a solo shot with two outs in the second off Royals starter Michael Wacha (3-6) — to tie it 1-1. Urías hit Wacha’s second pitch in the fourth out to left for his seventh homer and a 3-1 lead. Nick Kurtz drove in the second run for the A's with a two-out single in the third.

The Athletics pulled away after Wacha left with two on and one out in the sixth.

Jacob Wilson greeted reliever Steven Cruz with a single to load the bases. Cruz fanned Brent Rooker on three pitches but walked Tyler Soderstrom to force in a run. Max Muncy followed with a two-run single for a 6-1 advantage. Cruz fanned Kurtz with his 22nd pitch to end the inning. Wilson went 2 for 5 and scored twice.

Nick Loftin had a two-run triple in a three-run ninth as the Athletics held on for their fifth victory in their last 29 games.

Wacha gave up five runs on nine hits in 5 1/3 innings. Taylor Clarke pitched two scoreless innings after Cruz got two outs.

Muncy's two-out, two-run single in the sixth following the bases-loaded walk to Soderstrom proved to be the difference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749909471164.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel makes a diving catch of a fly ball hit by Athletics' Denzel Clarke during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel makes a diving catch of a fly ball hit by Athletics' Denzel Clarke during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Wynns and Luis Urías hit home runs, Luis Severino pitched 7 2/3 strong innings, and the Athletics beat Kansas City 6-4 on Friday night to end a 14-game road losing streak and hand the Royals their fourth straight loss.Severino (2-6) allowed six hits and a first-inning run on an RBI double by Salvador Perez. He surrendered 17 hits and 13 earned runs in his two previous starts covering 11 1/3 innings.Wynns hit his fourth home run — a solo shot with two outs in the second off Royals starter Michael Wacha (3-6) — to tie it 1-1. Urías hit Wacha’s second pitch in the fourth out to left for his seventh homer and a 3-1 lead. Nick Kurtz drove in the second run for the A's with a two-out single in the third.The Athletics pulled away after Wacha left with two on and one out in the sixth.Jacob Wilson greeted reliever Steven Cruz with a single to load the bases. Cruz fanned Brent Rooker on three pitches but walked Tyler Soderstrom to force in a run. Max Muncy followed with a two-run single for a 6-1 advantage. Cruz fanned Kurtz with his 22nd pitch to end the inning. Wilson went 2 for 5 and scored twice.Nick Loftin had a two-run triple in a three-run ninth as the Athletics held on for their fifth victory in their last 29 games.Wacha gave up five runs on nine hits in 5 1/3 innings. Taylor Clarke pitched two scoreless innings after Cruz got two outs.<h2>Key moment</h2>Muncy's two-out, two-run single in the sixth following the bases-loaded walk to Soderstrom proved to be the difference.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Athletics began the day with the worst ERA in the AL at 5.63 while allowing the most home runs — 104.<h2>Up next</h2>