<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020484058.jpeg" alt="Tailor Golly and the Blue Dragon Softball team open the Region 6 Tournament at 2 p.m. on Friday against Seward County at Legends Park in Dodge City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Tailor Golly and the Blue Dragon Softball team open the Region 6 Tournament at 2 p.m. on Friday against Seward County at Legends Park in Dodge City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
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The defending Region 6 Tournament champion Hutchinson Community College softball team opens the 2025 tournament on Friday in Dodge City against the Seward County Saints.
The No. 2-seed Blue Dragons (35-9) takes on No. 7 Seward County (18-30) in an opening-round matchup at 2 p.m. Friday at Legends Park in Dodge City. Regardless of outcome, the Blue Dragons will play again at 6 p.m. Friday.
BLUE DRAGON SOFTBALL Region 6 Tournament Opening-Round Matchups Friday, May 2, 2025 &ndash; Legends Park, Dodge City Noon &ndash; No. 1 Butler (38-6) vs. No. 8 Pratt (12-36), Field 4 Noon &ndash; No. 4 Garden City (26-20) vs. No. 5 Dodge City (26-26), Field 2 2 p.m. &ndash; No. 3 Barton (32-14) vs. No. 6 Colby (30-25), Field 2 2 p.m. &ndash; No. 2 Hutchinson (35-9) vs. No. 7 Seward County (18-30), Field 4
 <a href="https://kjccc.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/div1/2025_D1_Softball_Bracket.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CLICK FOR COMPLETE REGION 6 BRACKET</a>
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No. 3-seed Barton (32-14) and No. 6-seed Colby (30-23) is in Hutchinson's side of the double-elimination bracket.
All games will be videostreamed live on the KJCCC Network, which is a pay-per-view stream.
The KJCCC champion Blue Dragons swept Seward County in four games this season, winning 6-3 and 9-0 on March 12 in Hutchinson and 8-4 and 8-5 on April 13 in Liberal.
The Blue Dragons hit .400 in four games against the Saints.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_kaibryn_wwcp">Kaibryn Kruger</a>&nbsp;was 10 of 13 (.769) and&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;was 6 of 7 (.857).&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/stauffer_gabby_t8qf">Gabby Stauffer</a>&nbsp;had a series-high eight RBIs, while&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/golly_taylor_l19d">Tailor Golly</a>&nbsp;added six RBIs.
Pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchinson.prestosports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;was 3-0 with a 2.52 earned-run average in three games against the Saints.
Last season, the Blue Dragons defeated Butler in back-to-back championship games to capture the program's first Region 6 title since 1987 and earn the first-ever trip to the NJCAA Softball World Series.</div>

🥎 Blue Dragons open Region VI Tournament Friday

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports for Wednesday, April 30, 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=b2z5x-18963b6-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>

🎧 ⚾ Royals win series opener in Tampa, ⚾ Hutch High splits at Salina Central

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs exercised their fifth-year options Tuesday on cornerback Trent McDuffie and pass rusher George Karlaftis, two of the young pillars of a defense that has helped them to reach three consecutive Super Bowls.

The deadline to pick up the option year is Thursday.

The 24-year-old McDuffie, who was the 21st overall pick in 2022, has started all 43 games that he has played over the past three seasons. McDuffie was a first-team All-Pro in 2023 and a second-team All-Pro this past season, when he picked off the first two passes of his career and had a career-best 13 pass deflections while also forcing a fumble.

Karlaftis, who is also 24, was the 30th overall pick in the same draft, and has developed into one of the NFL’s top-tier defensive ends. He had six sacks as a rookie, 10 1/2 sacks the following year and eight last season.

The Chiefs’ draft three years ago is certain to go down as one of the best in club history.

Second-round pick Bryan Cook started every game at safety last season. Third-round pick Leo Chenal has started 32 games at linebacker over his first three seasons. Fourth-round pick Josh Williams has appeared in 50 games, and seventh-round selections Jaylen Watson, Isiah Pacheco and Nazeeh Johnson have started games or been role players.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722280173356.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs exercised their fifth-year options Tuesday on cornerback Trent McDuffie and pass rusher George Karlaftis, two of the young pillars of a defense that has helped them to reach three consecutive Super Bowls.The deadline to pick up the option year is Thursday.The 24-year-old McDuffie, who was the 21st overall pick in 2022, has started all 43 games that he has played over the past three seasons. McDuffie was a first-team All-Pro in 2023 and a second-team All-Pro this past season, when he picked off the first two passes of his career and had a career-best 13 pass deflections while also forcing a fumble.Karlaftis, who is also 24, was the 30th overall pick in the same draft, and has developed into one of the NFL’s top-tier defensive ends. He had six sacks as a rookie, 10 1/2 sacks the following year and eight last season.The Chiefs’ draft three years ago is certain to go down as one of the best in club history.Second-round pick Bryan Cook started every game at safety last season. Third-round pick Leo Chenal has started 32 games at linebacker over his first three seasons. Fourth-round pick Josh Williams has appeared in 50 games, and seventh-round selections Jaylen Watson, Isiah Pacheco and Nazeeh Johnson have started games or been role players.

🏈 Chiefs exercise 5th-year options on McDuffie and Karlaftis

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746020989040.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
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FRISCO, Texas (April 29, 2025)&mdash;The Wichita Wind Surge started their two-week road trip on the right foot with a 5-4 win over the Frisco RoughRiders at Riders Field. In the early afternoon series opener, Wichita halted a late rally by the RoughRiders and stranded the tying run on base to end the game with a victory.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/christian-macleod-681306">Christian MacLeod</a>&nbsp;allowed just two baserunners across the opening three innings in his second start of the season with the Wind Surge.
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/ricardo-olivar-691627">Ricardo Olivar</a>&nbsp;began the top of the fourth by yanking a double down the left field line. After Olivar advanced to third on an infield putout,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kala-i-rosario-693850">Kala&rsquo;i Rosario</a>&nbsp;pulled one far enough into left for a sacrifice fly and a 1-0 Wichita lead through three and a half.
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Frisco nearly responded in the bottom of the fourth, but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/angel-macuare-672836">Angel Macuare</a>&nbsp;threw out Josh Hatcher at home trying to score on a Cam Cauley single to shallow left center. Alejandro Osuna later tied the game for the RoughRiders on an RBI triple that stayed fair down the right field line in the bottom of the fifth.
The Wind Surge brought in four runs on four hits in the seventh and eighth innings, spearheaded by Olivar&rsquo;s go-ahead two-run single before the stretch.
Down to their final out in the bottom of the ninth, Keyber Rodriguez singled to right and two runners crossed the plate to make the score 5-4 Wichita, then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/cody-laweryson-689520">Cody Laweryson</a>&nbsp;struck out Frainyer Chavez to end the game by that score.
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<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/jarret-whorff-806337">Jarret Whorff</a>&nbsp;improved to 1-1 on the year after receiving his first win. Over three innings of relief, he struck out three and gave up just one hit on the Osuna homer. Laweryson also earned the save after the final K in the last of the ninth.
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>The Wind Surge have won back-to-back series openers and are 3-2 in such contests so far in 2025.</li>
<li>After an RBI single in the eighth, Kyler Fedko has reached base in 17 consecutive games.</li>
<li>Wichita hitters have walked six or more times in each of the last three games.</li>
<li>Today was the third time the Wind Surge have been outhit by their opponent and still won the game.</li>
<li>Christian MacLeod has allowed just two hits and two walks with seven strikeouts over six innings in two starts with Wichita in 2025.</li>
</ul>
The Wind Surge continues the series against the Frisco RoughRiders on Wednesday, April 30, at 6:35 PM. The Wind Surge returns to Equity Bank Park on May 13 for a series with the Arkansas Travelers. You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/MiLB.TV">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge takes series opener over RoughRiders 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745983948387.jpeg" alt="Charlie Box (right) surges in the final round of the NJCAA Central District Championship to earn first-team All-District honors and lead the Blue Dragon men's golf team to qualify for a 24th-straight NJCAA Tournament on Tuesday in Kansas City, MO." />
 <figcaption>Charlie Box (right) surges in the final round of the NJCAA Central District Championship to earn first-team All-District honors and lead the Blue Dragon men's golf team to qualify for a 24th-straight NJCAA Tournament on Tuesday in Kansas City, MO.</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
KANSAS CITY, Missouri &ndash; The 2025 Jayhawk Conference champion and Region 6 champion Hutchinson Community College men's golf team is headed back to the NJCAA National Tournament.
The Blue Dragons placed third in the Central District Championship on Tuesday to punch their tickets to nationals for the 24th-consecutive season, 25th time in 26 seasons and for 27th time in program history.
The 2025 NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championships will be May 12-16 at Sand Creek Station in Newton.
Trailing by 13 strokes entering Tuesday's final round, the Blue Dragons surged to within five strokes of Garden City and was tied with Indian Hills for second late in the third round, but finished third with a 54-hole total of 898.
Garden City won the district title at 896, Indian Hills was second at 893 and Dodge City was fourth at 916. The Broncbusters, Warriors, Blue Dragons and Conquistadors are the four automatic qualifiers from the Central region.
The Blue Dragons posted a final round of 12-over 300 on Tuesday. The Blue Dragons counted scores from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;(70),&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/northgraves_jack_mp7b">Jack Northgraves</a>&nbsp;(75),&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/ross_louis_6g3i">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;(76) and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/razinskas_david_xbtl">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;(79).
Box and freshman Corey Scullion earned first-team All-Central District honors after both Blue Dragons tied for fourth in the final individual standings.
Box, who opened the tournament Monday with a season-high 80, put together back-to-back rounds of 70 to finish at 6-over 250. Box got hot on the back nine Tuesday, recording four-straight birdies to pull into a six-way tie for first place in the individual standings at 3-over par.
Scullion, who was tied for first after 36 holes at 3-under par, struggled on Tuesday with a round of 79, tying Box for fourth at 250.
Garden City's Ilan Dufrenoy and Oliver Crowley tied for the individual title at 4-over 218.
Ross tied for 17th at 229. Northgraves tied for 19th at 230 and Razinskas was 34th at 243.
NJCAA CENTRAL DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP Tiffany Greens GC, Kansas City, MO Par 72 &ndash; Final Results TEAM RESULTS 1. Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 290-296-300&mdash;896 2. Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 306-290-298&mdash;893 3. Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 305-293-300&mdash;898 4. Dodge City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 318-299-299&mdash;916 T5. Barton&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 307-303-312&mdash;922 T5. Iowa Western&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 312-304-306&mdash;922 7. Crowder&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 304-305-319&mdash;928 8. John A. Logan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 312-319-311&mdash;942 9. Coffeyville &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 338-359-363&mdash;1,060 * - Top 4 teams earn automatic bids to national tournament
INDIVIDUAL TOP 10 T1. Ilan Dufrenoy, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 67-74-77&mdash;218 T1. Oliver Crowley, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 73-73-72&mdash;218 3. Rhys Nicholas, Dodge City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 75-69-75&mdash;219 T4.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>, Hutchinson &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 80-70-70&mdash;220 T4. Corey Scullion, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 70-71-79&mdash;220 T6. Emilio Arellano, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 72-75-75&mdash;222 T6. Nathan Pouchoulon, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 77-72-73&mdash;222 T8. Jackson Pierce, John A. Logan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 75-74-74&mdash;223 T8. Jack Dyer, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 74-75-74&mdash;223 T10. Kaleb Lambert, Barton&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 74-75-75&mdash;224 T10. Roman Roth, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 78-71-75&mdash;224
BLUE DRAGON GOLFERS T17.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/ross_louis_6g3i">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 76-77-76&mdash;229 T19.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/northgraves_jack_mp7b">Jack Northgraves</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 80-75-75&mdash;230 34.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/razinskas_david_xbtl">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 79-85-79--24</div>

⛳ Blue Dragons qualify for nationals for 24th-straight season

SALINA, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team split with the Salina Central Mustangs on Tuesday evening at Dean Evans Stadium. The Salthawks won the first game in run-rule fashion, before dropping the nightcap in 10 innings.&nbsp;

Hutchinson (10-9) will host Andale/Garden Plain and Haven on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field for a triangular. Salina Central (10-8) will travel to Newton on Friday.

Game 1 — Hutchinson 14, Salina Central 4 (6 Innings)

Caiden Beavers recorded his fifth three-hit game of the season to lead Hutchinson to a 14-4 win over Salina Central in six innings.

Beavers went 3-for-5 with three singles, two RBIs and three stolen bases, helping the Salthawks improve to 5-1 against left-handed starters and 3-2 in games without a defensive error. His two-run single in the first keyed a six-run opening frame, with Cole Bleything and Landon Parks also driving in runs.

Beavers added another RBI single in the third as Hutchinson pushed the lead to 9-3.

JuJu Lyons made the start and allowed one hit and three runs over two innings despite six walks. Bleything earned the win on the mound, going four innings of scoreless relief, striking out three and not allowing a hit.&nbsp;

The Salthawks totaled 10 hits and 10 walks. Parks and Carter Morgan each had multi-hit games, while Jack Davis walked three times. Hutchinson stole six bases.

Salina Central was led by Maximus Maes with two RBIs. Parker Graves and Bodie Rodriquez each had a hit, and the Mustangs drew six walks but couldn't overcome five defensive errors.

Hutchinson - 603 032 x - 14 10 0 Salina Central - 301 000 x - 4 2 5&nbsp; W: Lyons (3-2). L: Gross. Time: 1:47.

Game 2 — Salina Central 5, Hutchinson 4 (10 Innings)

A back-and-forth battle ended in heartbreak for Hutchinson, as Salina Central walked it off in the tenth for a 5-4 win Tuesday evening.

Hutchinson took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the fourth after Cole Bleything delivered an RBI single to left and a defensive miscue allowed a second run to score. Salina Central answered in the bottom half, tying the game on a sacrifice fly by Maximus Maes and a bases-loaded walk to Seth Rogers.

The Salthawks regained the lead in the ninth when Carter Morgan singled home a run and an error added another, giving Hutchinson a 4-2 advantage. But the Mustangs responded again in their final at-bat. Parker Graves ripped a game-tying, two-run double down the right field line before later scoring the winning run.

Graves also picked up the win on the mound, tossing three innings of relief with two strikeouts and no walks. Starter Seth Rogers went seven innings, allowing five hits and two runs (one earned) while fanning four.

Landon Parks took the loss for Hutchinson after allowing one run in two-thirds of an inning. Starter Gabe Valadez gave the Salthawks five and two-thirds solid innings, surrendering four hits and two runs with one strikeout.

Bleything and Caiden Beavers led Hutchinson’s offense with two hits apiece. Morgan, Bleything, and Valadez each drove in a run. Hutchinson turned one double play on defense.

Salina Central finished with 10 hits and five stolen bases. Graves led the Mustangs with two RBIs and went 2-for-5. Rogers, Jack Gordon, and Tyrus Young also notched two hits each, while Bodie Rodriquez stole a pair of bases.

Hutchinson - 000 200 002 0 - 4 8 1&nbsp; Salina Central - 000 200 002 1 - 5 10 6 W: Graves. L: Parks (0-1). Time: 2:34.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745970184305.jpeg" alt="Cole Bleything connects on an RBI single in the fourth inning of the second game of a doubleheader on Tuesday at Dean Evans Stadium in Salina, Kan. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Cole Bleything connects on an RBI single in the fourth inning of the second game of a doubleheader on Tuesday at Dean Evans Stadium in Salina, Kan. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostSALINA, Kan. — The Hutchinson High School baseball team split with the Salina Central Mustangs on Tuesday evening at Dean Evans Stadium. The Salthawks won the first game in run-rule fashion, before dropping the nightcap in 10 innings.&nbsp;Hutchinson (10-9) will host Andale/Garden Plain and Haven on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field for a triangular. Salina Central (10-8) will travel to Newton on Friday.Game 1 — Hutchinson 14, Salina Central 4 (6 Innings)Caiden Beavers recorded his fifth three-hit game of the season to lead Hutchinson to a 14-4 win over Salina Central in six innings.Beavers went 3-for-5 with three singles, two RBIs and three stolen bases, helping the Salthawks improve to 5-1 against left-handed starters and 3-2 in games without a defensive error. His two-run single in the first keyed a six-run opening frame, with Cole Bleything and Landon Parks also driving in runs.Beavers added another RBI single in the third as Hutchinson pushed the lead to 9-3.JuJu Lyons made the start and allowed one hit and three runs over two innings despite six walks. Bleything earned the win on the mound, going four innings of scoreless relief, striking out three and not allowing a hit.&nbsp;The Salthawks totaled 10 hits and 10 walks. Parks and Carter Morgan each had multi-hit games, while Jack Davis walked three times. Hutchinson stole six bases.Salina Central was led by Maximus Maes with two RBIs. Parker Graves and Bodie Rodriquez each had a hit, and the Mustangs drew six walks but couldn't overcome five defensive errors.Hutchinson - 603 032 x - 14 10 0 Salina Central - 301 000 x - 4 2 5&nbsp; W: Lyons (3-2). L: Gross. Time: 1:47.Game 2 — Salina Central 5, Hutchinson 4 (10 Innings)A back-and-forth battle ended in heartbreak for Hutchinson, as Salina Central walked it off in the tenth for a 5-4 win Tuesday evening.Hutchinson took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the fourth after Cole Bleything delivered an RBI single to left and a defensive miscue allowed a second run to score. Salina Central answered in the bottom half, tying the game on a sacrifice fly by Maximus Maes and a bases-loaded walk to Seth Rogers.The Salthawks regained the lead in the ninth when Carter Morgan singled home a run and an error added another, giving Hutchinson a 4-2 advantage. But the Mustangs responded again in their final at-bat. Parker Graves ripped a game-tying, two-run double down the right field line before later scoring the winning run.Graves also picked up the win on the mound, tossing three innings of relief with two strikeouts and no walks. Starter Seth Rogers went seven innings, allowing five hits and two runs (one earned) while fanning four.Landon Parks took the loss for Hutchinson after allowing one run in two-thirds of an inning. Starter Gabe Valadez gave the Salthawks five and two-thirds solid innings, surrendering four hits and two runs with one strikeout.Bleything and Caiden Beavers led Hutchinson’s offense with two hits apiece. Morgan, Bleything, and Valadez each drove in a run. Hutchinson turned one double play on defense.Salina Central finished with 10 hits and five stolen bases. Graves led the Mustangs with two RBIs and went 2-for-5. Rogers, Jack Gordon, and Tyrus Young also notched two hits each, while Bodie Rodriquez stole a pair of bases.Hutchinson - 000 200 002 0 - 4 8 1&nbsp; Salina Central - 000 200 002 1 - 5 10 6 W: Graves. L: Parks (0-1). Time: 2:34.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚾ Salthawks rout Mustangs in opener, fall in extras in Game 2

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745984040221.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;In the fourth annual Buck O'Neil Classic, Kansas baseball defeated Missouri 9-3 on Tuesday night at Hoglund Ballpark. Kansas has now won nine consecutive games to match its longest winning streak of the season and the longest under third-year head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/coaches/dan-fitzgerald/871" rel="smarttag" rev="871">Dan Fitzgerald</a></dfn>. The Jayhawks are 4-0 all-time in the Buck O'Neil Classic. &nbsp; <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135" rel="smarttag" rev="16135">Brady Counsell</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit his 11th home run of the season and finished the night with a career-high five RBIs. The Jayhawks improved to 36-10 overall this season, marking the most wins in a season since 2009. &nbsp; Kansas used seven pitchers to pick up the victory.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/malakai-vetock/16142" rel="smarttag" rev="16142">Malakai Vetock</a></dfn>&nbsp;started for Kansas and went a pre-determined two innings to earn the win.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/manning-west/16160" rel="smarttag" rev="16160">Manning West</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dalton-smith/16144" rel="smarttag" rev="16144">Dalton Smith</a></dfn>&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/alex-breckheimer/16154" rel="smarttag" rev="16154">Alex Breckheimer</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/eric-lin/16158" rel="smarttag" rev="16158">Eric Lin</a></dfn>&nbsp;each had scoreless relief appearances.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brigden-parker/16127" rel="smarttag" rev="16127">Brigden Parker</a></dfn>&nbsp;also did not allow an earned run. &nbsp; HOW IT HAPPENED &bull; Missouri (13-31) scored a run in the first inning on a solo homer by Kaden Peer. &bull; Kansas responded right away in the bottom of the first.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-ballinger/16147" rel="smarttag" rev="16147">Brady Ballinger</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jackson-hauge/16155" rel="smarttag" rev="16155">Jackson Hauge</a></dfn>&nbsp;each got on base and then Counsell launched a three-run homer to left-center field to give Kansas a 3-1 lead. &bull; The Jayhawks tacked on another run in the second inning on an RBI single by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/ian-francis/16139" rel="smarttag" rev="16139">Ian Francis</a></dfn>. That made it a 4-1 Kansas advantage. &bull; The Tigers scored a run in the third inning while Missouri was in a rundown between first and second base. The run cut the game to 4-2. &bull; In the fourth inning, Kansas scored two more runs on a two-run single by Counsell to give the Jayhawks a 6-2 lead. &bull; Each team traded a run in the seventh inning. Peer hit an RBI single for Missouri in the top of the inning and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sawyer-smith/16138" rel="smarttag" rev="16138">Sawyer Smith</a></dfn>&nbsp;had an RBI double in the bottom half of the inning to bring the score to 7-3. &bull; KU wrapped up the scoring with two runs in the eighth inning to make it 9-3.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dariel-osoria/16146" rel="smarttag" rev="16146">Dariel Osoria</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit an RBI single to left field to bring home one run and another run scored on the same play on an errant throw from the left fielder. &nbsp; PITCHERS OF RECORD Win:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/malakai-vetock/16142" rel="smarttag" rev="16142">Malakai Vetock</a></dfn>&nbsp;(3-0) Final line: 2.0 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 2 SO Loss: Josh Kirchhoff (2-1) Final line: 1.0 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 0 SO &nbsp; SOCIAL POST OF THE GAME &nbsp; &nbsp; QUOTABLES &amp; NOTABLES "I loved how the guys competed and loved that we just kept it the same in terms of just another day to prepare and get better. Malakai did a nice job in the first and then came back and did a really nice job in the second. We needed someone to stretch us for two (innings). We were hoping it would be Malakai. As you get closer to the postseason, you have to think about who else is going to&nbsp;start and if you get into a tournament situation where you have to play more than three games in a weekend. We had kind of mapped out that spot for Trumper and it worked out great and then the rest of it we had mapped it. Obviously, things didn't go our way perfectly, but the pitching plan kind of went to the way we were hoping it would go. Then, some timely hitting and some really good at bats. Any time you have more walks then punchouts in a game you've done a nice job at the plate. Overall really pleased with how he competed. It is so much fun playing at home. Our crowd is amazing and creative and many other words. Fun night." &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; "I think I just got some good pitches to hit. Had a good game plan going into the first at-bat and got a good pitch to hit and put it out of the park. Derek (Cerda), Jackson (Hauge) and Brady (Ballinger) get on base a lot, so it makes my job a little bit easier with getting RBIs." &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-counsell/16135" rel="smarttag" rev="16135">Brady Counsell</a></dfn> &nbsp; &bull; Kansas improved to 36-10 overall this season. The 36 wins are the most in a season since 2009. &bull; Kansas has won nine consecutive games, which matches the team's longest winning streak of the season and the longest under Fitzgerald. &bull; Kansas has a program-record 85 home runs this year. &bull; Kansas is now 4-0 in the annual Buck O'Neil Classic. &bull; Kansas recorded a season-high four stolen bases. The four steals are the most since April 12, 2023 vs. Texas Southern. &bull; Counsell set a new career high with five RBIs and tied his career high with 11 home runs this season. He extended his hitting streak to seven games. &bull; Smith has reached base safely in each of the last 22 games. &bull; Osoria extended his on-base streak to 12 games. &bull; Ballinger now has 18 multi-hit games this season. &nbsp; UP NEXT Kansas will host Cincinnati in a weekend conference series at Hoglund Ballpark, beginning on Friday at 6 p.m. CT. 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>

⚾ KU beats Mizzou for ninth straight win

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746019181364.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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LINCOLN, Neb. &ndash;&nbsp;Nebraska's Gabe Swansen hit a three-run double in the bottom of the ninth inning to give the Cornhuskers a 7-6 walk-off victory over K-State Tuesday night at Hawks Field. "We did a lot of really good things tonight," 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;commented. "We played great from behind, took the lead, and expanded it in the ninth. Unfortunately, you have to get 27 outs to win &ndash; 26 doesn't do it." In the game, K-State (26-19)&nbsp; stranded nine baserunners and was 2-for-15 with runners in scoring position. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/ty-ruhl/12303" rel="smarttag" rev="12303">Ty Ruhl</a></dfn>&nbsp;(2-2) was tagged for the loss after loading the bases in the ninth inning. The senior reliever went 1/3 innings, giving up two hits with a strikeout. Nebraska's Gavin Blachowicz (3-0) was credited with the win after striking out two of the three batters he faced in the ninth. Starter&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/tanner-duke/12334" rel="smarttag" rev="12334">Tanner Duke</a></dfn>&nbsp;logged five innings of one-run (unearned) ball, surrendering two hits with three strikeouts, while reliever&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/adam-arther/12286" rel="smarttag" rev="12286">Adam Arther</a></dfn>&nbsp;fired 2 2/3 scoreless innings. The lefty retired six of the seven batters he faced, without allowing a hit. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-bishop/12287" rel="smarttag" rev="12287">David Bishop</a></dfn>&nbsp;paced the offense, going 2-for-4, while&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/sam-flores/12310" rel="smarttag" rev="12310">Sam Flores</a></dfn>&nbsp;drove in three RBI. HOW IT HAPPENED The Cats recorded the first two hits of the game, with a single 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;and double from&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/david-bishop/12287" rel="smarttag" rev="12287">David Bishop</a></dfn>. K-State took advantage of a two-base fielding error that scored Bishop and put the Cats on the board. Nebraska answered in the bottom of the inning with singles by Dylan Carey and Robby Bolin, before a throwing error plated Carey from second. Tied 1-1, back-to-back walks issued to&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/shintaro-inoue/12311" rel="smarttag" rev="12311">Shintaro Inoue</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/dee-kennedy/12308" rel="smarttag" rev="12308">Dee Kennedy</a></dfn>&nbsp;started off the sixth inning. A wild pitch moved the runners up 90-feet with two outs before an intentional walk to&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;loaded the bases with&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/bear-madliak/12309" rel="smarttag" rev="12309">Bear Madliak</a></dfn>&nbsp;headed to the plate. Madliak, who was named to the Buster Posey Catcher of the Year Midseason Watch List, walked to put the Cats back in the lead. The lead was short lived, as Nebraska loaded the bases twice and spotted freshman reliever&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/donte-lewis/12313" rel="smarttag" rev="12313">Donte Lewis</a></dfn>&nbsp;for three runs to take its first lead of the night. Trailing 4-2, Martin laced a double inches away from the left field line to lead off the seventh. The centerfield scored in the next at bat, as Bishop singled through the right side to pull the score within one. Inoue followed with a base knock into right before the duo advanced on a failed pickoff attempt by reliever Casey Daiss. The Huskers made their seventh call to the pen, bringing Luke Broderick into the game. Broderick, who selected to the NCBWA Stopper of the Year Midseason Watch List, inherited runners on second and third before&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/sam-flores/12310" rel="smarttag" rev="12310">Sam Flores</a></dfn>&nbsp;delivered a clutch hit into right to help the Cats regain the lead. &nbsp; Inoue reached base in the ninth and moved to third with his sixth stolen base of the year and wild pitch. K-State added an insurance run with Flores third RBI of the game, scoring Inoue with a grounder to the mound. Nebraska rallied in the ninth, loading the bases with a pair of singles and hit by pitch with one out, leading to Swansen's three-run double to walk it off. INSIDE THE BOX
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<li>K-State scored six runs on six hits, committed two errors and ledt nine runners on base.</li>
<li>Nebraska scored seven runs on nine hits with three errors and stranded six baserunners.</li>
<li>Bishop turned in the only multi-hit game (2-for-4), as five different players accounted for K-State's hits.</li>
<li>Flores drove in three Wildcat runs followed by Madliak and Bishop with one.</li>
<li>K-State used five pitchers in the game while Nebraska used eight.</li>
<li>Ruhl (2-2) took the loss, surrendering three earned runs in the ninth.</li>
<li>Blachowicz (3-0) earned the victory in relief.</li>
<li>K-State 3-for-19 with runners on and 2-for-15 with runners in scoring position, while Nebraska was 6-for-18 with men on and 5-for-13 in scoring position.</li>
<li>Nebraska scored three runs with two outs.</li>
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TEAM NOTES
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<li>K-State is 118-176 in the all-time series with Nebraska, with a 43-93 record in Lincoln.</li>
<li>Under Hughes, K-State is 4-5 against the Cornhuskers.</li>
<li>K-State is 3-2 against teams from the Big 12 in 2025.</li>
<li>The Cats are 10-15 overall on the road, that includes a 4-15 record in true road games.</li>
<li>O'Connor has recorded a hit in six consecutive games.</li>
<li>Martin hit his 13th&nbsp;double.</li>
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UP NEXT K-State returns to Big 12 play on Thursday night, when the Cats take on BYU (21-21, 6-15 Big 12) at Miller Park in Provo, Utah. Thursday's game marks the first meeting between the two teams in Provo since BYU joined the league. Single-game tickets for the Wildcats final week (May 6-11) at Tointon Family Stadium 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>

⚾ Wildcats walked off by Huskers

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Freddy Fermin had three hits and an RBI, Kyle Isbel and Salvador Perez each drove in a run and Michael Lorenzen pitched six strong innings for his 50th career win as the Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 3-1 on Tuesday night.

Perez’s two-out double drove in Jonathan India in the first. One inning later, Fermin poked a single to right that allowed Drew Walters to advance from first to third, setting up Isbel’s sacrifice fly.

Fermin, who nearly left the game in the seventh after fouling a pitch off his hands, singled home Maikel Garcia to give Kansas City a two-run cushion in the ninth.

Lorenzen (3-3) halted the Rays’ five-game winning streak, his only blemish a solo homer to Junior Caminero in the fourth. After the homer, Lorenzen retired nine of his final 11 before three Kansas City relievers combined to shut out the Rays over the final three innings.

Caminero fell a triple shy of the cycle, going 3 for 4 with an RBI for the Rays, who’ve dropped six of their last seven at Steinbrenner Field.

Rays start Taj Bradley (2-2) gave up two runs and five hits in seven innings, walking three and striking out two.

Trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the eighth, Brandon Lowe and Caminero singled off Lucas Erceg. The reliever then struck out Jonathan Aranda and induced an inning-ending groundout from Christopher Morel to escape the jam. The Rays finished 0 for 4 with runners in scoring position.

Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the eighth to extend his hitting streak to 20 games, longest in the majors since José Iglesias hit safely in 22 straight from Sept. 6-30.

Royals LHP Noah Cameron is expected to make his big league debut on Wednesday against Rays RHP Drew Rasmussen (1-1, 2.10 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746007805852.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) watches his RBI double off Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Taj Bradley during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) watches his RBI double off Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Taj Bradley during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)</figcaption>
 </figure>TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Freddy Fermin had three hits and an RBI, Kyle Isbel and Salvador Perez each drove in a run and Michael Lorenzen pitched six strong innings for his 50th career win as the Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 3-1 on Tuesday night.Perez’s two-out double drove in Jonathan India in the first. One inning later, Fermin poked a single to right that allowed Drew Walters to advance from first to third, setting up Isbel’s sacrifice fly.Fermin, who nearly left the game in the seventh after fouling a pitch off his hands, singled home Maikel Garcia to give Kansas City a two-run cushion in the ninth.Lorenzen (3-3) halted the Rays’ five-game winning streak, his only blemish a solo homer to Junior Caminero in the fourth. After the homer, Lorenzen retired nine of his final 11 before three Kansas City relievers combined to shut out the Rays over the final three innings.Carlos Estévez earned his eighth save.Caminero fell a triple shy of the cycle, going 3 for 4 with an RBI for the Rays, who’ve dropped six of their last seven at Steinbrenner Field.Rays start Taj Bradley (2-2) gave up two runs and five hits in seven innings, walking three and striking out two.<h2>Key moment</h2>Trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the eighth, Brandon Lowe and Caminero singled off Lucas Erceg. The reliever then struck out Jonathan Aranda and induced an inning-ending groundout from Christopher Morel to escape the jam. The Rays finished 0 for 4 with runners in scoring position.<h2>Key stat</h2>Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. singled in the eighth to extend his hitting streak to 20 games, longest in the majors since José Iglesias hit safely in 22 straight from Sept. 6-30.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals LHP Noah Cameron is expected to make his big league debut on Wednesday against Rays RHP Drew Rasmussen (1-1, 2.10 ERA).

⚾️ Freddy Fermin has 3 hits as Royals beat Rays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746019061005.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;&ndash; Veteran coach&nbsp;Bill Peterson, who has experience at virtually every level of college and professional basketball coaching, has been named an assistant men's basketball coach at Kansas State in an announcement by head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2541" rel="smarttag" rev="2541">Jerome Tang</a></dfn>&nbsp;on Tuesday afternoon (April 29). Peterson, who started his new job on Tuesday, previously coached alongside Tang while at Baylor from 2017-22 where they helped guide the Bears to the 2021 NCAA Championship. "I am fired up to have Coach Bill Peterson as a part of our staff," said Tang. "He brings a wealth of experience in both college and the NBA. Every coach, player, and person associated with K-State Basketball will be better because of the addition of Coach Bill Peterson." Peterson has a combined 10 years of head coaching experience at the NAIA, Division II and G-League levels in his 47-year coaching career while he has been an assistant coach at Louisiana Tech (1980-83), McNeese State (1987-94), Bosier Parish Community College (1997-99), Colorado State (2000-07) and Denver (2024-25) to go with significant experience in a support staff role at Baylor (2017-24). Peterson has also served in various capacities in the NBA, including as special assistant with the Golden State Warriors (1989), player development/scout with the Dallas Mavericks (1998-2000) and assistant coach/player development with the Milwaukee Bucks (2007-13). He has G-League experience with the Texas Legends (2014) and Erie BayHawks (2014-17). Peterson has mentored over 20 NBA players, including Hall of Famers&nbsp;Dirk Nowitzki,&nbsp;Steve Nash&nbsp;and&nbsp;Karl Malone&nbsp;as well as 13-year pro&nbsp;Jason Smith&nbsp;and current Charlotte Hornet&nbsp;Seth Curry. "I am extremely excited to be joining Coach Tang's staff at Kansas State," said Peterson. "I have known&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2541" rel="smarttag" rev="2541">Jerome Tang</a></dfn>&nbsp;for the past eight years and have great respect and admiration for him and his family. The opportunity to work with him and his staff is a real blessing. The opportunity to work at a storied basketball program like K-State with a rich tradition of excellence is a real honor. "I am excited to again be competing in the Big 12 as it is recognized as one of the premier basketball leagues in the country. I will pour my heart and soul into the players, coaching and staff to get 1% better every day." Tang became familiar with Peterson during their 5-year stint on staff at Baylor (2017-22), where they helped the Bears to a 120-42 (.741) overall record, including a 61-26 (.701) mark in Big 12 play, to go with the 2021 NCAA Championship, two Big 12 regular-season titles (2021, 2022) and three NCAA Tournament appearances (2019, 2021, 2022). Peterson was Baylor's director of men's basketball operations from 2017-19 before spending the next five seasons (2019-24) as the special assistant to head coach&nbsp;Scott Drew. Overall, he was a part of 167 wins with the Bears to go with five NCAA Tournament appearances (2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024). Prior to joining the staff at Baylor, Peterson spent 10 seasons (2007-17) in the professional ranks with the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks and Orlando Magic. He was an assistant and player development coach with the Bucks under head coaches&nbsp;Larry Krystkowiak,&nbsp;Scott Skiles&nbsp;and&nbsp;Jim Boylan&nbsp;from 2007-13 before spending time with the Mavericks' G-League franchise, the Texas Legends in 2014. He was the head coach of the Erie BayHawks, the G-League affiliate of the Orlando Magic, from 2014-17 and was instrumental in the NBA call-ups of&nbsp;Seth Curry,&nbsp;Austin Daye,&nbsp;Keith Appling&nbsp;and&nbsp;Anthony Brown. He led the Orlando Magic Blue Team to the 2016 NBA Summer League Championship. Peterson's pro experience also includes a stint as a player development coach and scout with the Mavericks from 1998-2000 and as a special assistant with the Warriors in the summer of 1989. Peterson served as associate head coach at Colorado State for seven seasons (2000-07) under the direction of head coach&nbsp;Dale Layer. He was a part of 103 wins while in Fort Collins, including the Rams' first NCAA Tournament bid in 13 seasons after winning the Mountain West Conference Tournament in 2003. Peterson had the first of two stints as a small college head coach from 1983-87 at NAIA Union College in Barbourville, Ky., where he led the Bulldogs to 73 wins. He posted four consecutive winning seasons, including the school's most wins (22) in 16 seasons in 1984-85 while producing the school's first-ever NBA Draft pick in&nbsp;James Anderson&nbsp;(Portland Trail Blazers) in 1985. Peterson was the head coach at Division II Alabama-Huntsville from 1994-97, guiding the Chargers to their first winning season in 10 years in 1994-95 after inheriting a squad that won just one game the previous season. In between his head coaching stints with Union College and UAH, Peterson spent seven seasons (1987-94) on head coach&nbsp;Steve Welch's&nbsp;staff at McNeese State. He was a part of 75 wins with the Cowboys, including a Southland Conference Tournament Championship and NCAA Tournament bid in 1989. Peterson spent the 2024-25 season with the University of Denver under head coach&nbsp;Jeff Wulburn. Peterson began his coaching career as a student assistant at St. Petersburg (Fla.) Junior College before 3 seasons (1980-83) as a graduate assistant for head coach&nbsp;Andy Russo&nbsp;at Louisiana Tech, where he was part of a coaching staff that developed All-American and Hall of Famer&nbsp;Karl Malone. Peterson earned his bachelor's degree in Leisure and Recreation from Eckerd (Fla.) College in 1980 before obtaining a Master's in Physical Education and Human Relations from Louisiana Tech in 1982. Peterson and his wife,&nbsp;Diane, are the parents of three daughters:&nbsp;Kati,&nbsp;Ginny&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hailey&nbsp;(who went to be with The Lord in 2000). Coaching Experience Student Assistant, St. Petersburg Junior College, 1978-79 Graduate Assistant Coach, Louisiana Tech, 1980-83 Head Coach, Athletes in Action Russian/European Tour, 1985-86 Head Coach, Union College (Ky.), 1983-87 Special Assistant, Golden State Warriors, Summer 1989 Assistant Coach, McNeese State, 1987-94 Head Coach, Alabama-Huntsville, 1994-97 Assistant Head Coach, Bosier Parish Community College, 1997-99 Player Development Coach/Scout, Dallas Mavericks, 1998-2000 Associate Head Coach, Colorado State, 2000-07 Assistant Coach/Player Development, Milwaukee Bucks, 2007-13 Assistant Coach/Player Development, Texas Legends (NBA G-League), 2014 Head Coach, Erie BayHawks (NBA G-League), 2014-17 Director of Men's Basketball Operations, Baylor, 2017-19 Special Assistant to the Head Coach, Baylor, 2019-24 Assistant Coach, Denver, 2024-25 Assistant Coach, Kansas State, 2025-present Education Bachelor's Degree in Leisure and Recreation, Eckerd College, 1980 Master's in Physical Education and Human Relations, Louisiana Tech, 1982 Personal Wife:&nbsp;Diane Children:&nbsp;Kati, Ginny, Hailey&nbsp;(who went to be with The Lord in 2000)</div>

🏀 K-State adds Peterson to men's staff

SALINA, Kan. - The Hutchinson High School varsity baseball team travels to Salina Central to face the Mustangs in a doubleheader this afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m. for Game 1, with Game 2 to follow.

The Salthawks enter the doubleheader with a 9-8 record and are fresh off a split with Salina South in Salina on Friday. The Mustangs are 9-7 dropping two games on the road to Goddard Eisenhower last week.

Click below to listen to the broadcast of both games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745928710696.png" alt="Game Day_ Salthawks @ Salina Central&nbsp; for a road doubleheader today at 4pm &amp; 6pm" />
 <figcaption>Game Day_ Salthawks @ Salina Central&nbsp; for a road doubleheader today at 4pm &amp; 6pm</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA, Kan. - The Hutchinson High School varsity baseball team travels to Salina Central to face the Mustangs in a doubleheader this afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m. for Game 1, with Game 2 to follow.The Salthawks enter the doubleheader with a 9-8 record and are fresh off a split with Salina South in Salina on Friday. The Mustangs are 9-7 dropping two games on the road to Goddard Eisenhower last week.Click below to listen to the broadcast of both games.<div><iframe src="https://eagle-media-sports-hutch.mixlr.com/embed" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" height="200px" width="100%"></iframe><a href="https://mixlr.com/" style="color:#1a1a1a;display:block;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:11px;text-align:left;padding: 4px 0;">Eagle Media Sports - Hutchpost Sports is on Mixlr</a></div>

🎧⚾ Hutch High travels to Salina Central for AVCTL doubleheader

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745947882531.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure><div>KJCCC
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COLBY, Kan. &ndash; Becoming the 21st NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field National Qualifier from Hutchinson this season, Blue Dragon freshman Da&rsquo;Shawn Lester has been named the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Outdoor Track and Field Athlete of the Week for his performance at the Fort Hays State Alex Francis Classic. &nbsp;
Da&rsquo;Shawn Lester (Hutchinson) &ndash; KJCCC Men&rsquo;s Outdoor Track Athlete of the Week Hutchinson Freshman Da'Shawn Lester earned his first career victory and punched his ticket to the NJCAA Outdoor Championships on Friday at the Fort Hays State Alex Francis Classic. Lester won the 400 meters with a personal best and meet-winning time of 47.24 seconds. In addition to becoming the 21st Blue Dragon national meet qualifier, Lester posted the fourth-fastest outdoor 400-meter time in Blue Dragon history.
Other Track Athletes Nominated: Sibonokuhle Thwala &ndash; Fort Hays Tech NW Oliver Cabana &ndash; Neosho County
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👟 HutchCC's Lester named KJCCC Track Athlete of the Week

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745947327671.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure><div>KJCCC
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COLBY, Kan. &ndash; Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Baseball West Division series victories for Seward County Community College and Hutchinson Community College last week were led by this week&rsquo;s KJCCC Baseball West Division Players of the Week Hayden Ramage and Lachlan Rosser. &nbsp;
Hayden Ramage &ndash; Seward County (KJCCC Baseball West Division Player of the Week) Ramage hit .474 last week with three extra-base hits to lead Seward County to a four-game conference series sweep of Pratt. Recording multi-hit games in the first three games of the series, Ramage drove in 10 runs and scored five times while slugging .842.
Lachlan Rosser - Hutchinson (KJCCC Baseball West Division Pitcher of the Week) Blue Dragon freshman pitcher Lachlan Rosser pitched his best game of the season in a critical 4-0 victory over Garden City on Friday at Hobart-Detter Field. With the Blue Dragons battling for a home postseason playoff series, Rosser tossed seven shutout innings of two-hit baseball against the Broncbusters. The freshman struck out six and walked only one. Rosser's seven innings were a season-long for the left-hander while needing just 95 pitches and allowing only one Garden City runner to reach third base.
Other Players Nominated: Ayden Hadley - Barton Cam MaCleod &ndash; Cloud County Isaiah Padilla &ndash; Colby MD Connor &ndash; Dodge City Sean Togher &ndash; Garden City Taber Stokes &ndash; Hutchinson
Other Pitchers Nominated: Braden Hauschel &ndash; Barton Cole Linton &ndash; Cloud County Will David &ndash; Dodge City Jace Reid &ndash; Garden City John Langehennig &ndash; Seward County</div>

⚾ HutchCC's Rosser named KJCCC Pitcher of the Week

TOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) has taken a significant step toward investing in Kansas student athletes by approving a new bylaw requiring all member colleges to reserve at least 25% of their athletic Letters of Intent (LOIs) for Kansas students.

The decision was made during this week’s KJCCC meeting, where participating colleges came together to support the change. The policy will take effect starting with the 2026-2027 academic year and will apply across all sports offered by the member institutions.

"This move reflects our commitment to the communities that support our colleges," said Dr. Michael Calvert, President of Pratt Community College. "We’re proud to give Kansas student-athletes more opportunities to compete close to home."

Dr. Ryan Ruda, President of Garden City Community College, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the unique relationship between community colleges and their local supporters. "One of the strengths of Kansas’ community college system is the strong support we receive from local communities and taxpayers. There’s a special sense of pride and excitement when local students are on the field or court," he said.

Over the past seven years, the KJCCC has revised 20 recruitment-related rules. At one point, the league allowed unlimited out-of-state athletic scholarships. The new policy now limits out-of-state LOIs to no more than 75% of total offers, underscoring a renewed focus on Kansas and Kansas student athletes.&nbsp;

“We all want to recruit the best athletes, regardless of where they come from,” said Brad Bennett, President of Seward County Community College. “But ultimately, we’re Kansas institutions with a responsibility to serve Kansas communities—whether through academics or athletics.”

With the proposed roster limits being discussed at the NCAA Division One level and the increasing number of Kansas athletes wanting to stay close to home to compete, this change is the first step to ensuring Kansas athletes know that Kansas community colleges are committed to them to continuing their higher education and athletic participation in the state.&nbsp;The range of sports programs across the 20 colleges varies widely, from football rosters with more than 100 players to tennis teams with fewer than 10. All athletic programs will be subject to the new Kansas athlete recruitment requirement.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584064511958.png" alt="KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>KJCCCTOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) has taken a significant step toward investing in Kansas student athletes by approving a new bylaw requiring all member colleges to reserve at least 25% of their athletic Letters of Intent (LOIs) for Kansas students.The decision was made during this week’s KJCCC meeting, where participating colleges came together to support the change. The policy will take effect starting with the 2026-2027 academic year and will apply across all sports offered by the member institutions."This move reflects our commitment to the communities that support our colleges," said Dr. Michael Calvert, President of Pratt Community College. "We’re proud to give Kansas student-athletes more opportunities to compete close to home."Dr. Ryan Ruda, President of Garden City Community College, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the unique relationship between community colleges and their local supporters. "One of the strengths of Kansas’ community college system is the strong support we receive from local communities and taxpayers. There’s a special sense of pride and excitement when local students are on the field or court," he said.Over the past seven years, the KJCCC has revised 20 recruitment-related rules. At one point, the league allowed unlimited out-of-state athletic scholarships. The new policy now limits out-of-state LOIs to no more than 75% of total offers, underscoring a renewed focus on Kansas and Kansas student athletes.&nbsp;“We all want to recruit the best athletes, regardless of where they come from,” said Brad Bennett, President of Seward County Community College. “But ultimately, we’re Kansas institutions with a responsibility to serve Kansas communities—whether through academics or athletics.”With the proposed roster limits being discussed at the NCAA Division One level and the increasing number of Kansas athletes wanting to stay close to home to compete, this change is the first step to ensuring Kansas athletes know that Kansas community colleges are committed to them to continuing their higher education and athletic participation in the state.&nbsp;The range of sports programs across the 20 colleges varies widely, from football rosters with more than 100 players to tennis teams with fewer than 10. All athletic programs will be subject to the new Kansas athlete recruitment requirement.&nbsp;

KJCCC members join together to provide additional opportunities for Kansas student-athletes

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 <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, April 29, 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=fic8e-1894784-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>

🎧 ⚾ Royals open series in Tampa, ⛳ HutchCC competing in Central District Championship 

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745932297458.jpeg" alt="Freshman Corey Scullion is tied for first individually and the Blue Dragon men sit third after two rounds of the NJCAA Central District Championship in Kansas City, Missouri. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Freshman Corey Scullion is tied for first individually and the Blue Dragon men sit third after two rounds of the NJCAA Central District Championship in Kansas City, Missouri. (Steve Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
KANSAS CITY, Missouri &ndash; After a rough opening round at the NJCAA Central District Championship on Monday, the No. 2-ranked Hutchinson Community College men's golf team made a 15-stroke improvement in the afternoon round to put itself in position for a 24th-straight trip to the NJCAA Tournament.
The Blue Dragons are in third place after 36 of 54 holes at Tiffany Greens Golf Course at 598. Hutchinson trails first-place Garden City (586) by 12 strokes and second-place Indian Hills (595) by three strokes. The Dragons have an 11-stroke lead over fourth-place Crowder (609) and a 12-stroke lead over fifth-place Barton (610). The top four teams earn automatic bids for the 2025 NJCAA Division I Men's Golf Championship on May 13-16 at Sand Creek Station in Newton.
BLUE DRAGON MEN'S GOLF NJCAA Central District Championship When: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 Where: Tiffany Greens Golf Course, Kansas City Round: 3 Tee Times: 8:30 a.m. (shotgun start) Live scoring:&nbsp;<a href="https://scoreboard.clippd.com/tournaments/236875/scoring/team" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clippd Scoreboard</a>
The final round of the Central District Championship begins with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start on Tuesday at Tiffany Greens.
Freshman Corey Scullion is the low Blue Dragon golfer, who is tied for first place individually at 3-under 141. He is tied with Garden City's Ilan Dufrenoy and is the only Blue Dragon in the Top 10 after two rounds.
The Blue Dragons dug an early 15-stroke hole after 18 holes shooting a 17-over 305. The Dragons counted Scullion's 70,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/ross_louis_6g3i">Louis Ross</a>' 76,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/razinskas_david_xbtl">David Razinskas</a>' 79 and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>'s 80.
The Dragons rallied in the afternoon round and posted a 5-over 293, the second-best team round in the second round. Box rebounded with a 70 to lead Hutchinson in the second round. Scullion had a 71,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/northgraves_jack_mp7b">Jack Northgraves</a>&nbsp;carded a 75 and Ross counted with a 77, including an eagle on the final hole of the day.
Scullion had an eagle and two birdies with two bogeys in his opening-round 70. He had five birdies and four bogeys in his round of 71 in the second round. Dufrenoy was at 8-under late in the first round, but finished with rounds of 67 and 74.
Box is tied for 12th after 36 holes at 150. He shot a season-high 80 in the opening round and rebounded with a 2-under 70. He is one stroke out of the Top 10.
Ross is tied for 17th at 153 (76-77). Northgraves is tied for 23rd at 155 (80-75) and Razinskas is 36th at 164 (79-85).
NJCAA CENTRAL DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP Tiffany Greens Golf Course &ndash; Par 72 After 36 of 54 holes 1. Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 290-296&mdash;586 2. Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 305-290&mdash;595 3. Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 305-293&mdash;598 4. Crowder&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 304-305&mdash;609 5. Barton&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 307-303&mdash;610 6. Iowa Western&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 312-304&mdash;616 7. Dodge City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 318-299&mdash;617 8. John A Logan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 312-319&mdash;631 9. Coffeyville&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 338-359&mdash;697
INDIVIDUAL TOP 10 T1. Corey Scullion, Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 70-71&mdash;141 T1. Ilan Dufrenoy, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 67-74&mdash;141 3. Rhys Nicholas, Dodge City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 75-69&mdash;144 4. Oliver Crowley, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 73-73&mdash;146 5. Emilio Arellano, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 72-75 &ndash;147 6. Easton Chapman, Crowder&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 74-74&mdash;148 T7. Kaleb Lambert, Barton&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 74-75&mdash;149 T7. Jack Dyer, Garden City&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 74-75&mdash;149 T7. Jackson Pierce, John A. Logan&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 75-74&mdash;149 T7. Nathan Pochoulan, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 77-72&mdash;149 T7. Roman Roth, Indian Hills&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 78-71&mdash;149
BLUE DRAGON GOLFERS T12.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/box_charlie_0808">Charlie Box</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 80-70&mdash;150 T17.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/ross_louis_6g3i">Louis Ross</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 76-77&mdash;153 T23.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/northgraves_jack_mp7b">Jack Northgraves</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 80-75&mdash;155 36.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/razinskas_david_xbtl">David Razinskas</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 79-85&mdash;164</div>

⛳ Dragons 3rd in Central District Championship; Scullion tied for 1st

ARKANSAS CITY – The No. 3-ranked Cowley Tigers racked up 15 hits and scored 15 unanswered runs to defeat the Hutchinson Community College baseball team 17-3 in seven innings on Monday at Tigers Park.

The Blue Dragons (34-18) will now close out the 2025 regular season with a four-game Jayhawk West series against the Pratt Beavers. Games 1 and 2 will be at Hobart-Detter Field beginning at 1 p.m. Thursday. Games 3 and 4 will be at Stanion Field in Pratt at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Hutchinson and Butler are tied for third place in the Jayhawk West entering the final weekend with 15-13 records. Colby is one game behind in fifth place. Colby and Butler meet in the final weekend series.

One Monday, the Blue Dragons took a 3-2 lead with a three-run third inning. With the bases loaded and no outs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/stokes_taber_u8n0">Taber Stokes</a>&nbsp;hit a sacrifice fly to left so score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/hochstein_finn_ygit">Finn Hochstein</a>'s RBI groundout scored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/allen_griffin_bmj4">Nick Glantz</a>&nbsp;to tie the game at 2-all and the Dragons took a 3-2 lead one batter later on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/griffin_leo_z3t1">Leo Griffin</a>'s RBI double scored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mustow_adam_sf8t">A.J. Mustow</a>.

But the Tigers answered right back with six runs in the third, five runs in the fourth and four more in the fifth inning.

Maher led the Blue Dragons offensively going 2 for 4 with a run scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>, Glantz and Griffin had the other Blue Dragon hits.

Cowley had 15 hits with three doubles and a home run against seven Blue Dragon pitchers.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/usselman_reece_c48r">Reece Usselman</a>&nbsp;(2-1) was tagged with the loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745932257915.jpeg" alt="Sophomore Quinn Maher had two hits in the Blue Dragons' 17-3 loss to No. 3 Cowley on Monday in Arkansas City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Sophomore Quinn Maher had two hits in the Blue Dragons' 17-3 loss to No. 3 Cowley on Monday in Arkansas City. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationARKANSAS CITY – The No. 3-ranked Cowley Tigers racked up 15 hits and scored 15 unanswered runs to defeat the Hutchinson Community College baseball team 17-3 in seven innings on Monday at Tigers Park.The Blue Dragons (34-18) will now close out the 2025 regular season with a four-game Jayhawk West series against the Pratt Beavers. Games 1 and 2 will be at Hobart-Detter Field beginning at 1 p.m. Thursday. Games 3 and 4 will be at Stanion Field in Pratt at 1 p.m. on Saturday.Hutchinson and Butler are tied for third place in the Jayhawk West entering the final weekend with 15-13 records. Colby is one game behind in fifth place. Colby and Butler meet in the final weekend series.One Monday, the Blue Dragons took a 3-2 lead with a three-run third inning. With the bases loaded and no outs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/stokes_taber_u8n0">Taber Stokes</a>&nbsp;hit a sacrifice fly to left so score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/hochstein_finn_ygit">Finn Hochstein</a>'s RBI groundout scored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/allen_griffin_bmj4">Nick Glantz</a>&nbsp;to tie the game at 2-all and the Dragons took a 3-2 lead one batter later on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/griffin_leo_z3t1">Leo Griffin</a>'s RBI double scored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mustow_adam_sf8t">A.J. Mustow</a>.But the Tigers answered right back with six runs in the third, five runs in the fourth and four more in the fifth inning.Maher led the Blue Dragons offensively going 2 for 4 with a run scored.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>, Glantz and Griffin had the other Blue Dragon hits.Cowley had 15 hits with three doubles and a home run against seven Blue Dragon pitchers.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/usselman_reece_c48r">Reece Usselman</a>&nbsp;(2-1) was tagged with the loss.

⚾ No. 3 Cowley rolls by Hutchinson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745871142014.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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IRVING, Texas &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas baseball sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dominic-voegele/16130" rel="smarttag" rev="16130">Dominic Voegele</a></dfn>&nbsp;has been named Big 12 Pitcher of the Week for the second time this season, the conference office announced on Monday. &nbsp; Voegele was dominant on Friday night in a 2-0 victory at Utah. He pitched a career-high 8.2 innings and did not allow a run or walk. Voegele had five strikeouts in his outing and retired 12 consecutive batters from the final out of the fifth inning all the way through the first two outs of the ninth inning. It was Voegele's fifth quality start of the year. &nbsp; The 8.2 scoreless innings helped Kansas record the second of back-to-back shutouts, marking the first time in program history that Kansas had a shutout in consecutive road games against Division I opponents (9-inning games). &nbsp; A native of Columbia, Illinois, Voegele is third in the Big 12 with 66.2 innings pitched, tied for fifth in the conference with six wins and is ninth in the league with 60 strikeouts. &nbsp; Voegele won Big 12 Pitcher of the Week earlier this season on March 31.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/brady-ballinger/16147" rel="smarttag" rev="16147">Brady Ballinger</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/tommy-barth/16141" rel="smarttag" rev="16141">Tommy Barth</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/michael-brooks/16122" rel="smarttag" rev="16122">Michael Brooks</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jackson-hauge/16155" rel="smarttag" rev="16155">Jackson Hauge</a></dfn>&nbsp;have all won Big 12 weekly awards this season in addition to Voegele. &nbsp; No. 23 Kansas (35-10, 15-6 Big 12) is riding an eight-game winning streak, which includes back-to-back Big 12 series sweeps of Kansas State and Utah. The 35 wins are the most in a season for Kansas since 2014 and the 15 wins in Big 12 games are tied for the most in a season in program history. &nbsp; KU is currently in second place in the Big 12 standings. Kansas is back home at Hoglund Ballpark for four games this week, with a game on Tuesday against Missouri at 6 p.m. CT and a weekend conference series against Cincinnati from May 2-4.</div>

⚾ KU's Voegele named Big 12 Pitcher of the Week

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745867599485.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wichita State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
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WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Fresh off an impressive showing on Senior Weekend,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://goshockers.com/sports/softball/roster/lauren-lucas/9314" rel="smarttag" rev="9314">Lauren Lucas</a></dfn>&nbsp;has been named the American Athletic Conference Player of the Week, it was announced Monday afternoon. The Little Elm, Texas, native was 7-for-12 (.583) with five home runs, eight runs scored and nine RBIs in four games last week. Lucas hit home runs in each of the four games, including a two-home run game in the series finale vs. Charlotte. She has already set a new career high in home runs this season with 13, besting her previous career high of 10 in 2022. Nine of those 13 home runs have come in conference play. This is the fourth AAC Player of the Week honor for Lucas in her career and second of the season. Lucas and the Shockers wrap up the regular season this week with their home finale Wednesday night vs. Kansas and then the final conference series at Memphis, May 2-4.</div>

🥎 WSU's Lucas tabbed as AAC Player of the Week for second time

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701263164849.png" alt="Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher.png" />
 <figcaption>Early Morning Sports with Rob Dreher.png</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Early Morning Sports - April 28" 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=nmv2u-189317d-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>

🎧 ⚾ Royals dropped series finale, 🥎 Blue Dragon Softball ties for conference title 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725282945901.png" alt="EAGLE Media" />
 <figcaption>EAGLE Media</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/ce/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KHMY2">KHMY-FM (93.1)</a> <a href="https://streamdb5web.securenetsystems.net/v5/KHUT">KHUT-FM (102.9)</a> <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/v5/KWBW">KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5)</a><div><h2>Monday,&nbsp;April&nbsp;28</h2>
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<h2>Tuesday,&nbsp;April&nbsp;29</h2>
Hutch High baseball at Salina Central - 4 p.m. &amp; 6 p.m. (HutchPost.com)
Royals&nbsp;at Rays -&nbsp;5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:05 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)
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<h2>Wednesday,&nbsp;April&nbsp;30</h2>
Royals&nbsp;at Rays&nbsp;-&nbsp;5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:05&nbsp;p.m. first pitch (KWBW)
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<h2>Thursday,&nbsp;May 1&nbsp;</h2>
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<h2>Friday,&nbsp;May 2</h2>
Hutch High baseball&nbsp;vs. Haven &amp; Andale&nbsp;-&nbsp;2 p.m. &amp; 6 p.m. (HutchPost.com)
Royals at Orioles - 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:05 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)
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<h2>Saturday,&nbsp;May 3</h2>
Royals at Orioles - 5:30 p.m. pregame, 6:15&nbsp;p.m. first pitch (KWBW)
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<h2>Sunday,&nbsp;May 4</h2>
Royals&nbsp;vs.&nbsp;Astros&nbsp;- noon&nbsp;pregame, 12:35 p.m. first pitch (KWBW)
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🎧 EAGLE Media Sports Broadcast Calendar (April 28-May 4)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745807954969.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon players celebrate after the final out of a come-from-behind 7-5 victory over Barton in Game 2 on Sunday in Great Bend to clinch the 2025 Jayhawk Conference Championship. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon players celebrate after the final out of a come-from-behind 7-5 victory over Barton in Game 2 on Sunday in Great Bend to clinch the 2025 Jayhawk Conference Championship. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
GREAT BEND &ndash; Through the first 13 innings the 2025 season's final regular-season doubleheader on Sunday afternoon, the Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragons were held to just two runs and nine hits by the Barton Cougars.
Then came the seventh inning of Game 2.
The Blue Dragons sent 10 batters to plate and erupted for five runs on six hits in their final at-bat as Hutchinson rallied from a three-run deficit to defeat the Cougars 7-5, clinching the 2025 Jayhawk Conference softball championship.
The celebration was delayed after the Dragons were shut out for just the third time this season &ndash; the first time since February 23 &ndash; as Barton's Meleia Ingram pitched a one-hit shutout in a 3-0 Cougar victory.
Hutchinson (35-9) won its second league crown in the last three seasons and sixth overall (1986, 1987, 1991, 1992, 2023 and 2025) with a 27-5 KJCCC record. The Blue Dragons will open play in the Region 6 Tournament on Friday at Legends Park in Dodge City. Pairings and times will be released later this week.
Within the midst of winning the conference championship Sunday, sophomores&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;both reached individual season statistical milestones:
+ With her stolen base in Game 1, Backhaus broke Lexi Williams' single-season stolen base record with her 54th steal of the season. Williams had 53 steals in 2021. + Scoring the game-tying run in the top of the seventh in Game 2, Backhaus tied her own single-game record for runs scored with her 77th run. + Earning the pitching victory in Game 2, Tomlinson tallied her 20th win of the season. Now 20-6 in her sophomore year, Tomlinson is the first Blue Dragon 20-game winner since Holly Kelley in 2016.
GAME 2 RECAP &ndash; Hutchinson 7, Barton 5 Hutchinson's comeback attempt got a little tougher in the bottom of the sixth when then Cougars hit their third home run of the game for a 5-2 lead entering the Dragons' final at-bat.
That final at-bat started with an Addi Lutz leadoff single and one-out hits from&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/dice_emily_75aj">Emily Dice</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;to load the bases. The Dragons scored on a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_kaibryn_wwcp">Kaibryn Kruger</a>&nbsp;fielder's choice to short to score Lutz, cutting the lead to 5-3.
<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/golly_taylor_l19d">Tailor Golly</a>&nbsp;singled through the left side to score Dice to make it 5-4. Then&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/stauffer_gabby_t8qf">Gabby Stauffer</a>&nbsp;singled up the middle, scoring&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;with the tying run and Kruger with the go-ahead run for a 6-5 lead. After a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_brooke_ngsp">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;infield single,&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/brawner_brie_hldl">Brie Brawner</a>&nbsp;hit a sacrifice fly to left to score Golly for a 7-5 Hutchinson lead.
Tomlinson worked around a two-out error in the bottom of the seventh to close out the victory.
Lutz and Golly both had three-hit games to lead Hutchinson's 14-hit attack. Lutz was 3 for 4 with a double and two runs scored. Golly was 3 for 4 with a double, run scored and an RBI.&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_brooke_ngsp">Brooke Backhaus</a>&nbsp;were both 2 for 4 and Dice was 2 for 3 with a run scored and RBI.
Barton took a 2-0 lead after two batters with the Cougars hitting back-to-back home runs to lead off the first inning.
Relief pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/schmidt_jessica_edec">Jessica Schmidt</a>&nbsp;entered the game in the first and went on to pitch a season-high five innings. She allowed four hits and three runs with one walk and one strikeout. Tomlinson pitched two shutout innings with one hit and one strikeout.
Trailing 2-0 after one inning, the Dragons tied the game at 2-all in the second after a&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/kruger_haley_h3bo">Haley Kruger</a>&nbsp;sacrifice fly scored Brawner and Dice's RBI single scored Lutz.
GAME 1 RECAP &ndash; Barton 3, Hutchinson 0 The Blue Dragons were limited to just two baserunners over the first five innings by Ingram and didn't get their first hit of the game until&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>' infield single in the sixth inning.
Ingram struck out 10 and walked three in her complete-game performance.
Tomlinson pitched a complete game and allowed six hits and one walk with five strikeouts. Barton hit two home runs, a solo shot in the third and a two-run homer in the bottom of the sixth for the only offense of the game.
The Blue Dragons were out-hit 6-1.
GAME NOTES&nbsp;&ndash; Now with 136 stolen bases this season, the 2025 Blue Dragons are two steals shy of breaking the program record of 137 since in 2021. &hellip; Now with 102 doubles, the 2025 Blue Dragons move into fourth in program history for doubles. &hellip;&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/tomlinson_morgan_0v0v">Morgan Tomlinson</a>&nbsp;now has 36 career pitching wins. &hellip;&nbsp;<a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/sports/sball/2024-25/bios/backhaus_bailey_44zk">Bailey Backhaus</a>&nbsp;now has 199 career hits (second on the career list), 154 career runs (second on the career list) and 79 stolen bases (third on the career list).</div>

🥎 Late rally sends Blue Dragons to Jayhawk Conference title

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yordan Alvarez’s long home run backed a solid start by Hunter Brown as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 7-3 on Sunday in the series finale to avoid being swept.

Alvarez snapped Houston’s 26-inning scoreless streak, crushing Kris Bubic’s sinker 436 feet to center for a three-run homer and a 3-0 Astros lead in the third inning.

Brown (4-1), who allowed one run on seven hits and a walk with nine strikeouts over six innings, surrendered a lone hit in each of the first four innings but struck out seven while not allowing a runner past second.

Brown’s 28-inning shutout streak – fifth longest in franchise history – ended in the fifth inning on a two-out single by Jonathan India and an RBI double by Bobby Witt Jr.

Leading off the fifth, Chas McCormick doubled and scored on Jeremy Peña’s single. McCormick had three hits and scored three runs for the Astros.

Peña’s two-out, two-run double in the sixth extended Houston’s lead to 6-1. Peña collected three RBIs in his first game batting leadoff.

Yainer Diaz added a solo home run in the seventh.

Bubic (2-2) allowed four runs on five hits and three walks, striking out four in five innings.

India had a pair of singles and drove in a run while Witt extended his hitting streak to a career-best 19 games.

Isaac Paredes drew a four-pitch walk ahead of Alvarez’s three-run blast.

Alvarez, who led left-handed major leaguers with a .362 average against left-handed pitchers in 2024, hit his first homer of this season against a left-hander.

The Astros open a three-game homestand Monday against Detroit with Tigers RHP Jack Flaherty (1-2, 2.63 ERA) opposing RHP Ronel Blanco (2-2, 5.01).

Tuesday, the Royals begin a three-game series against the Rays in Tampa with Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (2-3, 3.90) against RHP Taj Bradley (2-1, 5.08).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745797590457.jpeg" alt="Houston Astros' Yordan Alvarez (44) celebrates after hitting a three-run home run with Chas McCormick (20) and Isaac Paredes (15) during the third inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, April 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Houston Astros' Yordan Alvarez (44) celebrates after hitting a three-run home run with Chas McCormick (20) and Isaac Paredes (15) during the third inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, April 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yordan Alvarez’s long home run backed a solid start by Hunter Brown as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 7-3 on Sunday in the series finale to avoid being swept.Alvarez snapped Houston’s 26-inning scoreless streak, crushing Kris Bubic’s sinker 436 feet to center for a three-run homer and a 3-0 Astros lead in the third inning.Brown (4-1), who allowed one run on seven hits and a walk with nine strikeouts over six innings, surrendered a lone hit in each of the first four innings but struck out seven while not allowing a runner past second.Brown’s 28-inning shutout streak – fifth longest in franchise history – ended in the fifth inning on a two-out single by Jonathan India and an RBI double by Bobby Witt Jr.Leading off the fifth, Chas McCormick doubled and scored on Jeremy Peña’s single. McCormick had three hits and scored three runs for the Astros.Peña’s two-out, two-run double in the sixth extended Houston’s lead to 6-1. Peña collected three RBIs in his first game batting leadoff.Yainer Diaz added a solo home run in the seventh.Bubic (2-2) allowed four runs on five hits and three walks, striking out four in five innings.India had a pair of singles and drove in a run while Witt extended his hitting streak to a career-best 19 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Isaac Paredes drew a four-pitch walk ahead of Alvarez’s three-run blast.<h2>Key stat</h2>Alvarez, who led left-handed major leaguers with a .362 average against left-handed pitchers in 2024, hit his first homer of this season against a left-hander.<h2>Up next</h2>The Astros open a three-game homestand Monday against Detroit with Tigers RHP Jack Flaherty (1-2, 2.63 ERA) opposing RHP Ronel Blanco (2-2, 5.01).Tuesday, the Royals begin a three-game series against the Rays in Tampa with Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (2-3, 3.90) against RHP Taj Bradley (2-1, 5.08).

⚾️ Alvarez’s  home run backs Brown’s solid start in Astros win over Royals

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745806255918.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
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SALT LAKE CITY &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sawyer-smith/16138" rel="smarttag" rev="16138">Sawyer Smith</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit a go-ahead grand slam in the eighth inning to lift Kansas to a 12-11 win against Utah at Smith's Ballpark. The victory marked the eighth consecutive win for Kansas and completed the seventh series sweep of the season for the Jayhawks. &nbsp; Kansas has four Big 12 series sweeps this season which is the most in program history. The Jayhawks improved to 35-10 on the season and 15-6 in Big 12 play with the victory. The 35 wins are the most in a season for Kansas since 2014 and the 15 wins in Big 12 games are tied for the most in a season in program history. Kansas sits in second place in the Big 12 standings. &nbsp; KU trailed 10-7 heading into the eighth inning when the Jayhawks scored five runs with two outs. The first run came on an RBI single by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dariel-osoria/16146" rel="smarttag" rev="16146">Dariel Osoria</a></dfn>, who had a two-run homer in the seventh inning. Then, a dropped force out at second base allowed the inning to continue. A walk loaded the bases for Smith. He got behind 0-2 in the count and worked a full count before hitting a ball in the air to left field that carried out for a grand slam. &nbsp; HOW IT HAPPENED &bull; Kansas scored first for a third straight day. The Jayhawks plated two runs in the first inning on a two-run single by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/jackson-hauge/16155" rel="smarttag" rev="16155">Jackson Hauge</a></dfn>. &bull; That lead did not last long as Utah had a response with three runs in the bottom of the first inning. Santino Panaro scored on a wild pitch, while Austen Roellig and Drake Digiorno each had RBI singles. After one inning, Utah led 3-2. &bull; KU was able to take back the lead in the second inning.&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/derek-cerda/16140" rel="smarttag" rev="16140">Derek Cerda</a></dfn>&nbsp;hit a sacrifice fly to tie up the game at 3-3 and Hauge hit an RBI double that dropped between the shortstop, left fielder and center fielder to score a run. That gave Kansas a 4-3 lead. &bull; Utah (17-22, 5-16 Big 12) tied it up at 4-4 in the bottom of the second on an RBI single by Roellig. &bull; The Utes grabbed the lead again in the third inning. An RBI single by Jake Long and a squeeze bunt from Matt Flaharty gave Utah a 6-4 advantage. &bull; A seventh run for the Utes came in to score on another RBI single from Long in the fifth inning. The run put Utah ahead 7-4. &bull; Cerda was able to help the Jayhawks get that run back in the top of the sixth on an RBI single. That cut the Kansas deficit to 7-5. &bull; Utah's Tyler Quinn hit a solo home run in the bottom of the sixth to stretch the lead back to three runs at 8-5. &bull; Kansas continued to battle back as Osoria hit a two-run homer in the seventh to bring it to an 8-7 ballgame. The Jayhawks had a chance to do more in the inning with the bases loaded and two outs but were unable to score. &bull; The Utes got the two runs back in the bottom of the seventh on an RBI triple by Derek Smith and an RBI single from Panaro. The brought the Utah lead back to 10-7. &bull; For the first time since the second inning, Kansas was able to pull ahead and take the lead with a five-run eighth inning. Osoria had a two-out RBI single up the middle to pull the Jayhawks within two runs at 10-8. KU loaded the bases and Smith came up and hit a towering fly ball to left field that carried over the fence for a grand slam. That put Kansas ahead 12-10. &bull; An infield single by Utah's Cameron Gurney in the bottom of the eighth made it a 12-11 game. &bull; Each team had one base runner in the ninth inning, but both teams were held scoreless to end the game at 12-11. &nbsp; PITCHERS OF RECORD Win:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/alex-breckheimer/16154" rel="smarttag" rev="16154">Alex Breckheimer</a></dfn>&nbsp;(3-0) Final line: 1.2 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 BB, 0 SO Loss: Cameron Nielson Final line: 1.0 IP, 1 H, 4 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 0 SO Save:&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/eric-lin/16158" rel="smarttag" rev="16158">Eric Lin</a></dfn>&nbsp;(5) Final line: 2.0 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 0 SO <iframe title="Video: Kansas at Utah Highlights - Game 3 - University of Kansas" src="https://kuathletics.com/showcase/embed.aspx?Archive=2176&amp;autoplay=false" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" align="" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> &nbsp; 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=1916617395751498043&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fkuathletics.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F4%2F27%2Fbaseball-smith-grand-slam-powers-kansas-to-sweep-at-utah.aspx&amp;sessionId=d0a6f5952113bc68fd307965635499aac9a70a07&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1916617395751498043"></iframe></div>
&nbsp; QUOTABLES &amp; NOTABLES "Sawyer rose to the occasion in a game where we needed someone to because we could not keep them off the board. We started chasing them in the seventh pretty good with two (runs) and then obviously the five-spot in the eighth. They went to the reliever and Coach Hancock had a spot on scouting report on him. Sawyer is really, really good at thinking through at-bats. He's got a great approach and communicates really well with his teammates. We had some information on the pitcher that we thought we knew what was coming and he battled through the at-bat and got it to the 3-2 count and drilled it&hellip;the way the outfielder reacted I knew it was gone. At that point, our bench exploded. We had a bunch of outs to still get. Great moment for Sawyer and really proud of him." &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; "I was just trying to get a good swing on the ball and drive in some runs. All you can do is get a good swing, so wherever the ball lands it lands. I went up there just trying to compete. Compete as hard as I can every pitch and get a good swing on it and see what happens." &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/sawyer-smith/16138" rel="smarttag" rev="16138">Sawyer Smith</a></dfn> &nbsp; "I didn't start off the game really well, so I was trying to go up there with a clear mindset and just be prepared for this next opportunity. That's what I was really thinking the whole game after every at-bat even though I was struggling. I was like 'alright now's the time, new at-bat'. I just really tried to take advantage of it and put bat to ball." &ndash;&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/baseball/roster/dariel-osoria/16146" rel="smarttag" rev="16146">Dariel Osoria</a></dfn> &nbsp; &bull; Kansas improved to 35-10 this season and 15-6 in conference play. The 35 wins are the most in a season for Kansas since it had 35 wins in 2014. The 15 wins in Big 12 games are tied for the most in program history (2009, 2014, 2024). &bull; Kansas has won eight consecutive games and has three winning streaks of at least eight games this season. &bull; Kansas has seven series sweeps this season (at Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi, at Tarleton State, vs. Milwaukee, vs. Oklahoma State, at UCF, vs. Kansas State, at Utah). The four Big 12 series sweeps are the most for Kansas in program history. &bull; Kansas has scored at least 10 runs in 17 games this season. The Jayhawks are 17-0 in those games. &bull; Kansas has hit multiple home runs in 23 games this season. The Jayhawks have a program-record 84 home runs this year. &bull; Kansas has hit five grand slams this season. &bull; Smith connected on his eighth home run of the season. He has reached base safely in each of the last 21 games. His four RBIs tied his season high. &bull; Osoria hit his fifth home run of the season. He has an 11-game on-base streak. &bull; Cerda matched his career high with three hits. &nbsp; UP NEXT Kansas will be back home at Hoglund Ballpark for four games this week, with a midweek game on Tuesday at 6 p.m. CT against Missouri and a weekend conference series against Cincinnati from May 2-4. Fans can purchase tickets by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.evenue.net/list/BSB">here</a>.</div>

⚾ Jayhawks defeat Utes for eighth straight win

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745806378167.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas State Athletics
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MANHATTAN, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Tyler Cox's RBI double in the top of the ninth broke a 5-5 tie and handed Houston a 6-5 victory in the series finale Sunday at Tointon Family Stadium. "That was a disappointing game," 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. "Good fight and battled back. That all sounds good, but in the end, when you lose, I really don't care how it looked. You get beat, you get beat, and we beat ourselves." K-State (26-18, 12-9 Big 12) erased a four-run deficit in the first inning and rallied to level the score with the help of home runs by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/shintaro-inoue/12311" rel="smarttag" rev="12311">Shintaro Inoue</a></dfn>,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/dee-kennedy/12308" rel="smarttag" rev="12308">Dee Kennedy</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/keegan-o-connor/12317" rel="smarttag" rev="12317">Keegan O'Connor</a></dfn>. With the score knotted at 5-all, the Cougars' (23-20, 7-13 Big 12) second baseman Anthony Avalos was hit by a pitch and scored on Cox's double down the right-field line. "I think in the last three innings, it might've been four, they got the lead off runner on by a hit by pitch or walk. We were dancing around trouble all day long and doing that, we did a great job with damage control the entire game, but eventually you're going to let up a run," commented Hughes. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/james-guyette/12295" rel="smarttag" rev="12295">James Guyette</a></dfn>&nbsp;(4-3) fired five scoreless innings in relief before surrendering the game-winner in the ninth. He scattered two hits in his 5 1/3 innings of work, while striking out three with three walks and four hit batters. Alongside Inoue, Kennedy and O'Connor,&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/sam-flores/12310" rel="smarttag" rev="12310">Sam Flores</a></dfn>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/aj-evasco/12312" rel="smarttag" rev="12312">AJ Evasco</a></dfn>&nbsp;also tallied a hit. Inoue registered a three-hit day followed by O'Connor with two, while five different players drove in a run. "I am disappointed. I thought we did a good job against Antoine Jean, but still, if you get a chance to tie the game at home in the eighth and ninth inning, you gotta win those games." Jean, who ranks second in the league with 88 strikeouts, held the Cats to two runs over his 6 2/3 innings in relief before handing the ball over to Richie Ramon. The right-hander limited K-State to one hit in the final two frames to pick up his first win of the season (1-5). K-State has sent out 77 homers this year, including 23 games hitting multiple. The Wildcats' 77 homers in 2025 ties third all-time in school history. Under Hughes, K-State has produced five of the six top season's in terms of home run production. HOW IT HAPPENED With a pair of two-out home runs by Avalos and Brandon Bishop, Houston sent nine to the plate and spotted K-State starter&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/lincoln-sheffield/12332" rel="smarttag" rev="12332">Lincoln Sheffield</a></dfn>&nbsp;for four runs in the first frame. <dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/jj-slack/12304" rel="smarttag" rev="12304">JJ Slack</a></dfn>&nbsp;relieved Sheffield, inheriting runners on second and third. The lefty struck out the first batter he faced to get the Cats out of the jam. Trailing 4-0, Inoue immediately answered with a 421-foot no-doubter over the centerfield wall &ndash; his fourth homer in the last four games &ndash; until Kennedy belted the team's 76th&nbsp;home run to left field to pull the game within two. With one out, Houston's starter Eric Van Valkenburg issued a walk to&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/seth-dardar/12320" rel="smarttag" rev="12320">Seth Dardar</a></dfn>&nbsp;to force a pitching change and bring Jean into the game. O'Connor and Flores responded to the change with a pair of singles to make it 4-3. &nbsp; Cougars' Cade Climie barreled a 1-1 pitch to right field to extend the lead, but Slack bounced back with his third strikeout of the inning to keep the score within two. Down 5-3, O'Connor recovered the run handed over in the top of the third with his 12th&nbsp;home run. The Cats knotted the score in the fifth, as&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/aj-evasco/12312" rel="smarttag" rev="12312">AJ Evasco</a></dfn>&nbsp;led off with a single and advanced to third on a balk and sacrifice bunt, before scoring on a chopper to the shortstop by&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/baseball/roster/maximus-martin/12314" rel="smarttag" rev="12314">Maximus Martin</a></dfn>. After four scoreless innings, Houston regained the lead after a hit by pitch put the game-winning run on base. INSIDE THE BOX
<ul>
<li>K-State scored five runs on eight hits, committed one error and stranded seven runners on base.</li>
<li>Houston scored six runs on eight hits with one error and leaving 12 runners on.</li>
<li>Inoue, Kennedy and O'Connor each homered.</li>
<li>Guyette (4-3) suffered the loss in relief, allowing the go-ahead run in the ninth.</li>
<li>Slack and Guyette combined for nine strikeouts.</li>
<li>Roman (1-5) was credited with the victory in relief, holding K-State scoreless in the final two frames.</li>
<li>Inoue produced a team-high three hits followed by O'Connor with two, while five different Cats drove in a run. &nbsp;</li>
<li>K-State went 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position, while UH was 1-for-13. Houston scored five runs with two outs.</li>
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TEAM NOTES
<ul>
<li>K-State leads the all-time series, 7-3, with a 5-1 edge in Big 12 games.</li>
<li>With the win, Houston snapped its five-game losing streak to K-State.</li>
<li>K-State has homered in 33 of 44 games, totaling 77 with 28 in the month of April.</li>
<li>The 2025 team's 77 home runs ties third all-time in school history, alongside the 2023 squad.</li>
<li>Under Hughes, K-State has five of the program's top six seasons in terms of home run production.</li>
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UP NEXT The Wildcats complete their home-and-home series with the Nebraska Cornhuskers (21-23) on Tuesday at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park in Lincoln, Neb., starting at 6 p.m. Single-game tickets for the Wildcats final week (May 6-11) at Tointon Family Stadium 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>