<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754496346800.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Coming off a strong 2024 campaign, Kansas Volleyball has been picked to finish second in the 2025 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll, as announced by the conference on today.
 The Jayhawks earned 170 points and received four first-place votes, trailing only BYU (180 points, six first-place votes) in a tightly contested poll. The 2025 second-place prediction marks the sixth-straight season Kansas has been fifth or higher in the Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll. Conference coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team in the preseason poll.
 In addition to the team recognition, Kansas placed three standout student-athletes on the 2025 Preseason All-Big 12 Team, tying for the second-most selections of any school in the conference.
 Sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292" rel="smarttag" rev="16292">Cristin Cline</a></dfn>&nbsp;(S), sophomore&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287" rel="smarttag" rev="16287">Reese Ptacek</a></dfn>&nbsp;(MB), and freshman&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519" rel="smarttag" rev="16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a></dfn>&nbsp;(PIN) all earned preseason honors. Ptacek, a 2025 All-Big 12 First Team honoree and unanimous preseason selection, returns as a force at the net. Cline, who emerged as a dynamic playmaker during her freshman season, looks to build on her success as the team's primary setter. Zelenovic, a highly touted newcomer, is one of only three freshmen named to the preseason squad.
 "This conference is deep with talent and is very well coached," said Kansas Head Coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/coaches/matt-ulmer/892" rel="smarttag" rev="892">Matt Ulmer</a></dfn>. "Our group is excited to compete against some of the best teams in the country."
 Kansas will open its 2025 season on August 23 with a match against Vanderbilt in the AVCA First Serve Tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska. KU will then face reigning national champion Penn State two days later, August 25, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Jayhawks will make their home debut in Horejsi Family Volleyball Arena on September 25, against last year's Big 12 champion Arizona State.
 <a name="_9071pi32kvsx"></a> 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Poll
<ol>
<li>BYU- 180 points (6 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Kansas- 170 points (4 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Arizona State- 168 points (3 first-place votes)</li>
<li>Utah- 159 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>TCU- 141 points (1 first-place vote)</li>
<li>Baylor- 137 points</li>
<li>Arizona- 131 points</li>
<li>Kansas State- 95 points</li>
<li>Iowa State- 92 points</li>
<li>Colorado- 84 points</li>
<li>Houston- 75 points</li>
<li>Texas Tech- 46 points</li>
<li>Cincinnati- 38 points</li>
<li>UCF- 32 points</li>
<li>West Virginia- 27 points</li>
</ol>
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Player of the Year Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Freshman of the Year Suli Davis, BYU, OH
 2025 Big 12 Volleyball&nbsp;Preseason&nbsp;Team Jordan Wilson, Arizona, OH, Sr.* # Noemie Glover, Arizona State, OH, Jr. Faith Frame, Arizona State, L, So. ! Victoria Davis, Baylor, MB, Jr. Gabrielle Essix, Baylor, MB, Gr. Alex Bower, BYU, S, So. ! Claire Little, BYU, OH, Jr.* # Brielle Kemavor, BYU, MB, Jr.* # Avah Armour, UCF, OH, Jr. Ana Burilovic, Colorado, PIN, Jr. ^ Maya Duckworth, Iowa State, OH, Sr. <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/cristin-cline/16292" rel="smarttag" rev="16292">Cristin Cline</a></dfn>, Kansas, S, So. <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/reese-ptacek/16287" rel="smarttag" rev="16287">Reese Ptacek</a></dfn>, Kansas, MB, So.* # <dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/womens-volleyball/roster/jovana-zelenovic/16519" rel="smarttag" rev="16519">Jovana Zelenovic</a></dfn>, Kansas, PIN, Fr. Aniya Clinton, Kansas State, OH, R-So. Jalyn Gibson, TCU, OH, Sr.* # Kamryn Gibaldo, Utah, OH, Jr.* # Emrie Satuala, Utah, MB, Sr. ^ Players are listed alphabetically by school.&nbsp; * indicates unanimous selection.&nbsp; # - 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 First Team ^ - 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 Second Team ! &ndash; 2024&nbsp;All-Big&nbsp;12 Rookie Team</div>

🏐 KU picked 2nd in 2025 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll

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

TOPEKA, Kan. — Hutchinson native and current Washburn University men's basketball coach, Brett Ballard, has been named the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Four-Year Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season.

Ballard led the Ichabods to the NCAA Division II Final Four, before falling to eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern in the semifinals. The Ichabods finished the season with a 30-4 record, going 17-2 in the MIAA, and a perfect 16-0 inside of Lee Arena.

Ballard finished up his eighth season in Topeka and guided the Ichabods to the MIAA regular season title and the No. 1 seed in the Central Region.

He is a 1998 graduate of Hutchinson High School. He then played one season at Cowley College and one at HutchCC, where he graduated in 2000. Ballard then played his final two seasons at Kansas under Roy Williams.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730213997649.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Washburn Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Washburn Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostTOPEKA, Kan. — Hutchinson native and current Washburn University men's basketball coach, Brett Ballard, has been named the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Four-Year Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Coach Ballard has been named the 2025 KBCA Four-Year Coach of the Year! <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachBBallard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachBBallard</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/wusports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@wusports</a> 🏀🎩🔵 <a href="https://t.co/RO3UC7qj6G">pic.twitter.com/RO3UC7qj6G</a>&mdash; Washburn MBB (@IchabodMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IchabodMBB/status/1952803608933564849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ballard led the Ichabods to the NCAA Division II Final Four, before falling to eventual national champion, Nova Southeastern in the semifinals. The Ichabods finished the season with a 30-4 record, going 17-2 in the MIAA, and a perfect 16-0 inside of Lee Arena.Ballard finished up his eighth season in Topeka and guided the Ichabods to the MIAA regular season title and the No. 1 seed in the Central Region.He is a 1998 graduate of Hutchinson High School. He then played one season at Cowley College and one at HutchCC, where he graduated in 2000. Ballard then played his final two seasons at Kansas under Roy Williams.

🏀 Ballard named KBCA Four-Year Coach of the Year

🎧⚾ Royals drop second straight to Red Sox; 🏈 HutchCC preseason KJCCC favorite; ⚾ Wind Surge beat Naturals

With a strong nucleus of returning talent and a culture built on consistency, Trinity Catholic enters the 2025 football season prepared to compete in a rugged Heart of America League and Class 1A District 7.

“We are extremely excited about the upcoming 2025 season,” said head coach Jordan Bell, who begins his 12th season at the helm of the Celtics. “As a coaching staff, we are looking forward to coaching a football team that is eager to learn and work extremely hard.”

Trinity is coming off a 4-6 season in 2024, which included the program’s eighth straight playoff appearance. The Celtics will bring back eight offensive starters and nine on defense, along with 13 total returning lettermen.

The projected 26-man roster is the program’s smallest in several years, due in part to a small sophomore class. But Bell is confident the team’s core leadership and work ethic will carry it forward.

“Leadership will need to continue to grow with the senior and junior classes,” Bell said. “Continued development of underclassmen will remain a priority to sustain the success of the football program in future years.”

Returning on offense are senior quarterback Drew Dechant, wide receivers Kaid McElgunn and Sam Vogel, tight end Bentyn Chastain, and linemen Eli Bigger, Isaac Hammersmith, Lucas Griffith, and Gage Schroeder. The Celtics will again operate from multiple formations with an emphasis on balance.

“The offense will continue to operate out of multiple formations with an emphasis on a 50/50 run/pass percentage,” Bell said.

Defensively, Trinity will field an experienced group expected to play with intensity and purpose. Nine starters return, including linebackers Chastain, Griffith, and Luke Kerns, and defensive backs Dechant, Roberto Guerrero, and McElgunn.

“The defensive unit will play fast, physical and with great effort,” Bell said.

Senior Drew Dechant is also expected to handle punting duties, while McElgunn returns as a primary return specialist. Placekicking duties are still to be determined.

The 2025 schedule will once again challenge the Celtics, with four opponents, Sedgwick, Conway Springs, Medicine Lodge, and Sterling, having all won at least one playoff game a year ago. Trinity opens the season Sept. 5 at home against Inman.

The program continues to benefit from its commitment to year-round strength development, including Zero Hour and summer contact camps.

“With nine full years of Zero Hour under our belt, the overall strength of the football program is getting where it needs to be,” Bell said.

Sept. 5 vs. Inman Sept. 12 at Sedgwick Sept. 19 at Remington Sept. 26 vs. South Sumner Oct. 3 vs. Conway Springs Oct. 10 at Ellinwood Oct. 17 vs. Medicine Lodge Oct. 24 at Sterling

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744984519843.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Trinity Catholic Celtics</h2>With a strong nucleus of returning talent and a culture built on consistency, Trinity Catholic enters the 2025 football season prepared to compete in a rugged Heart of America League and Class 1A District 7.“We are extremely excited about the upcoming 2025 season,” said head coach Jordan Bell, who begins his 12th season at the helm of the Celtics. “As a coaching staff, we are looking forward to coaching a football team that is eager to learn and work extremely hard.”Trinity is coming off a 4-6 season in 2024, which included the program’s eighth straight playoff appearance. The Celtics will bring back eight offensive starters and nine on defense, along with 13 total returning lettermen.The projected 26-man roster is the program’s smallest in several years, due in part to a small sophomore class. But Bell is confident the team’s core leadership and work ethic will carry it forward.“Leadership will need to continue to grow with the senior and junior classes,” Bell said. “Continued development of underclassmen will remain a priority to sustain the success of the football program in future years.”Returning on offense are senior quarterback Drew Dechant, wide receivers Kaid McElgunn and Sam Vogel, tight end Bentyn Chastain, and linemen Eli Bigger, Isaac Hammersmith, Lucas Griffith, and Gage Schroeder. The Celtics will again operate from multiple formations with an emphasis on balance.“The offense will continue to operate out of multiple formations with an emphasis on a 50/50 run/pass percentage,” Bell said.Defensively, Trinity will field an experienced group expected to play with intensity and purpose. Nine starters return, including linebackers Chastain, Griffith, and Luke Kerns, and defensive backs Dechant, Roberto Guerrero, and McElgunn.“The defensive unit will play fast, physical and with great effort,” Bell said.Senior Drew Dechant is also expected to handle punting duties, while McElgunn returns as a primary return specialist. Placekicking duties are still to be determined.The 2025 schedule will once again challenge the Celtics, with four opponents, Sedgwick, Conway Springs, Medicine Lodge, and Sterling, having all won at least one playoff game a year ago. Trinity opens the season Sept. 5 at home against Inman.The program continues to benefit from its commitment to year-round strength development, including Zero Hour and summer contact camps.“With nine full years of Zero Hour under our belt, the overall strength of the football program is getting where it needs to be,” Bell said.<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 vs. Inman Sept. 12 at Sedgwick Sept. 19 at Remington Sept. 26 vs. South Sumner Oct. 3 vs. Conway Springs Oct. 10 at Ellinwood Oct. 17 vs. Medicine Lodge Oct. 24 at Sterling

🏈 High school football preview: Trinity Catholic Celtics

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Blue Dragon football fans will once again have a front-row seat to insider analysis and behind-the-scenes stories as Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas returns for another season in 2025.

Hosted by Rob Dreher, the 30-minute weekly coaches’ show features Hutchinson Community College head football coach Drew Dallas and airs Mondays at 6 p.m. during the fall season on KWBW Radio (1450-AM/98.5-FM), unless otherwise noted. The program offers fans a deep dive into Blue Dragon football, including game breakdowns, players of the game and a look ahead at upcoming matchups.

This year’s Dragon Talk will kick off Monday, Sept. 8, following Hutchinson’s season opener on Sept. 6 at New Mexico Military Institute.

Hutchinson is coming off its second NJCAA national championship in three seasons and is the preseason favorite to win a fifth-straight Jayhawk Conference title.

For more information or to listen live, tune in to KWBW Radio or visit <a>www.kwbwradio.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754416962091.jpeg" alt="Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas" />
 <figcaption>Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Blue Dragon football fans will once again have a front-row seat to insider analysis and behind-the-scenes stories as Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas returns for another season in 2025.Hosted by Rob Dreher, the 30-minute weekly coaches’ show features Hutchinson Community College head football coach Drew Dallas and airs Mondays at 6 p.m. during the fall season on KWBW Radio (1450-AM/98.5-FM), unless otherwise noted. The program offers fans a deep dive into Blue Dragon football, including game breakdowns, players of the game and a look ahead at upcoming matchups.This year’s Dragon Talk will kick off Monday, Sept. 8, following Hutchinson’s season opener on Sept. 6 at New Mexico Military Institute.Scheduled air dates include:<ul>
 <li>Sept. 8 (4:30 p.m.)</li><li>Sept. 15
</li><li>Sept. 22
</li><li>Oct. 6 (5:30 p.m.)</li><li>Oct. 13
</li><li>Oct. 20
</li><li>Oct. 27 (5:30 p.m.)</li><li>Nov. 3
</li><li>Nov. 17
</li><li>Nov. 24
</li>
 </ul>Hutchinson is coming off its second NJCAA national championship in three seasons and is the preseason favorite to win a fifth-straight Jayhawk Conference title.For more information or to listen live, tune in to KWBW Radio or visit <a>www.kwbwradio.com</a>.

‘Dragon Talk with Drew Dallas’ returning for 2025 season on KWBW Radio

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726397165918.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita Wind Surge
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (August 5, 2025)&mdash;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/mike-paredes-702474">Mike&nbsp;Paredes</a>&nbsp;became the Wichita Wind Surge single-season franchise wins leader in an 8-7 come-from-behind victory over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Equity Bank Park. The win makes it three in a row for the Wind Surge since Saturday night in Amarillo.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kaelen-culpepper-701785">Kaelen Culpepper</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/walker-jenkins-805805">Walker Jenkins</a>&nbsp;went back-to-back on a three-run blast and a solo shot off of Major League rehabber Michael Lorenzen to give Wichita a 4-0 lead in the bottom of the second inning.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952894419021250808&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-claw-back-to-win-against-naturals&amp;sessionId=829c197d02887284a9794e755cb531060caa4737&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952894419021250808"></iframe></div>
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered">&nbsp;</div>
Sam Ruta gave the Naturals their first run on a sac fly to left in the top of the third. Carson Roccaforte tied the game 4-4 on a three-run home run over the top of the wall in right field an inning later.
&nbsp;
Jenkins reached base again on a single in the home half of the fifth, later scoring on a single by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/kala-i-rosario-693850">Kala&rsquo;i Rosario</a>, where a throwing error allowed him to come to the plate. Rosario later scored on a wild pitch to put the Wind Surge ahead by two runs.
&nbsp;
Ruta yanked an RBI double to right in the top of the sixth to make it 6-5 Wichita. Omar Hernandez came across from second on a passed ball, and then Brett Squires doubled to right to give the 7-6 lead to Northwest Arkansas in the next frame, ahead of the seventh inning stretch.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/hendry-mendez-694230">Hendry Mendez</a>&nbsp;sprinted home in his Wind Surge debut to tie the game on a passed ball in the bottom of the eighth, then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/player/nate-baez-686960">Nate Baez</a>&nbsp;touched the plate on a groundout for Wichita to jump out in front 8-7.
&nbsp;
Paredes finished the night and earned his 11th win of the season, throwing for three innings of two-run baseball with four hits, a walk, and a strikeout. He is the new single-season franchise record holder for wins in a season.
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952937331067117708&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.milb.com%2Fnews%2Fwind-surge-claw-back-to-win-against-naturals&amp;sessionId=829c197d02887284a9794e755cb531060caa4737&amp;siteScreenName=milb&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952937331067117708"></iframe></div>
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered">&nbsp;</div>
POSTGAME NOTES
<ul>
<li>Kaelen Culpepper and Walker Jenkins become the 10th pair of Wichita Wind Surge teammates to hit back-to-back home runs this season.</li>
<li>Mike Paredes is the new Wind Surge single-season franchise leading winning pitcher (11).</li>
<li>Hendry Mendez has opened up his time in Wichita with three straight multi-hit games.</li>
<li>Sam Armstrong made his Wind Surge debut, striking out six over five frames.</li>
<li>Wichita has won three games in a row.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
The Wind Surge continue the series with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals beginning August 6 at 7:05 PM on Wet Nose Wednesday, presented by Quantum Credit Union. Bring your dogs to the ballpark and enjoy some baseball under the summertime lights! You can listen to Wind Surge games on ESPN Wichita 92.3 FM and&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/">windsurge.com</a>&nbsp;or watch online at&nbsp;<a href="http://milb.tv/">MiLB.TV</a>&nbsp;and Bally Sports Live. For ticket information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://windsurge.com/tickets">windsurge.com/tickets</a>.</div>

⚾ Wind Surge earn come-from-behind win over Naturals

BOSTON (AP) — Garrett Crochet scattered four hits over seven innings and Trevor Story hit a blooper into center field to break a sixth-inning tie on Tuesday night and led the Boston Red Sox to their seventh straight win, 6-2 over the Kansas City Royals.

Crochet (13-4) struck out eight to win his ninth consecutive decision and help Boston win for the ninth time in 10 games. Story drove in two runs in the sixth and and added another RBI single in the three-run seventh, when the Red Sox took a 6-2 lead.

Ryan Bergert (1-1) gave up two runs on two hits and two walks, striking out two in 5 2/3 innings. He walked Alex Bregman with two outs in the sixth, then Angel Zerpa came in and gave up a double to Wilyer Abreu before Story lofted one over the second baseman's head to make it 3-1.

The Red Sox loaded the bases with two outs in the seventh on two walks and Jarren Duran's single off the shortstop's glove. Abreu hit a popup that fell between the out-sprinting second baseman and hard-charging right fielder to score two runs, then Story singled in another run to make it 6-2.

Crochet retired the first 10 Royals batters before Bobby Witt Jr. tripled in the fourth and scored on Maikel Garcia’s double. The Red Sox ace allowed just one more hit before Garcia walked to lead off the seventh and then scored on Randal Grichuk’s double off the tip of left fielder Duran’s glove to make it 3-2.

But Crochet struck out Nick Loftin for the second out and then got Luke Maile on a 97 mph fastball to end the inning.

The Red Sox are 13 games above .500 for the first time since the end of the 2021 season.

The teams finish the series and the Red Sox go for their second straight sweep when trade deadline acquisition Dustin May (6-7, 4.85 ERA) makes his Red Sox debut against Kansas City’s Michael Wacha (5-9, 3.38).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754477001124.jpeg" alt="Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet covers first base on a throw by first baseman Abraham Toro to make the out on Kansas City Royals Vinnie Pasquantino in the sixth inning, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)" />
 <figcaption>Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet covers first base on a throw by first baseman Abraham Toro to make the out on Kansas City Royals Vinnie Pasquantino in the sixth inning, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Garrett Crochet scattered four hits over seven innings and Trevor Story hit a blooper into center field to break a sixth-inning tie on Tuesday night and led the Boston Red Sox to their seventh straight win, 6-2 over the Kansas City Royals.Crochet (13-4) struck out eight to win his ninth consecutive decision and help Boston win for the ninth time in 10 games. Story drove in two runs in the sixth and and added another RBI single in the three-run seventh, when the Red Sox took a 6-2 lead.Ryan Bergert (1-1) gave up two runs on two hits and two walks, striking out two in 5 2/3 innings. He walked Alex Bregman with two outs in the sixth, then Angel Zerpa came in and gave up a double to Wilyer Abreu before Story lofted one over the second baseman's head to make it 3-1.The Red Sox loaded the bases with two outs in the seventh on two walks and Jarren Duran's single off the shortstop's glove. Abreu hit a popup that fell between the out-sprinting second baseman and hard-charging right fielder to score two runs, then Story singled in another run to make it 6-2.<h2>Key moment</h2>Crochet retired the first 10 Royals batters before Bobby Witt Jr. tripled in the fourth and scored on Maikel Garcia’s double. The Red Sox ace allowed just one more hit before Garcia walked to lead off the seventh and then scored on Randal Grichuk’s double off the tip of left fielder Duran’s glove to make it 3-2.But Crochet struck out Nick Loftin for the second out and then got Luke Maile on a 97 mph fastball to end the inning.Garcia had two hits for the Royals.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Red Sox are 13 games above .500 for the first time since the end of the 2021 season.<h2>Up next</h2>The teams finish the series and the Red Sox go for their second straight sweep when trade deadline acquisition Dustin May (6-7, 4.85 ERA) makes his Red Sox debut against Kansas City’s Michael Wacha (5-9, 3.38).

⚾ Crochet, Story lead Red Sox to 7th straight win over Royals

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — After watching his Kansas City Chiefs get dismantled by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl, general manager Brett Veach identified two specific areas where the three-time reigning AFC champions needed to improve.

One was left tackle, where a rotating cast struggled all season to protect Patrick Mahomes. The other was wide receiver, where injuries prevented the Chiefs from ever having the group that they expected to have on the field.

Now, it appears two positions of weakness in February could be positions of strength by the season opener in September.

On the left side of the offensive line, Veach signed Jaylon Moore in free agency, then drafted Josh Simmons in the first round out of Ohio State. He was widely considered to be the most talented tackle prospect available, but a knee injury that robbed Simmons of most of last season also sent his stock falling, and allowed him to fall right into the Chiefs’ lap at No. 32 overall.

Three weeks into training camp, not only has Simmons showed no lingering effects of last year’s surgery, but he has routinely punished teammates in 1-on-1 drills, and solidified the starting job ahead of Saturday’s preseason opener in Arizona.

“He’s very talented, man. Very, very good rookie so far,” right tackle Jawaan Taylor said. “He’s been soaking up all the things we’ve been teaching him — Coach (Andy) Heck, the players, the veterans, and I feel like he’s going to have a great career here.”

They haven’t had a true franchise left tackle since Eric Fisher left after two Pro Bowls following the 2020 season, and that came back to haunt them, especially against the Eagles in February. Mahomes was sacked six times in the 40-22 Super Bowl loss, and he was forced to throw under duress on at least twice that many plays.

In training camp, Simmons has consistently given Mahomes more time to throw, and that has resulted in the kinds of explosive downfield passing plays that have been absent from the Kansas City offense the past few years.

“First of all, he’s getting a lot of reps, which I think is important for a rookie,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He’s been in there and consistently showing up every day and working and not taking plays off or anything like that.

“But he’s a worker,” Reid continued. “I mean, he’s willing to do it. It’s just a matter of keep on going. But he’s done a nice job with what we’ve asked him. He’s working on all the fundamentals and techniques, so that’s a challenge for him.”

At the receiving end of all those downfield throws are not only the wide receivers that Mahomes and Co. expected to have last season but a potentially improved group with the addition of fourth-round pick Jalen Royals.

Rashee Rice has shown no issues after a torn knee ligament cost him most of last season, while the shoulder injury that kept Marquise Brown off the field for months has likewise healed. Throw in a year of growth for Xavier Worthy, their first-round pick last year, and the Chiefs’ wide receiver group is deeper, faster and more potent than it has been in a while.

“Not to take anything away from any receivers that we’ve been with here or anywhere else (but) for me, this collective group of wide receivers from top to bottom is extremely competitive and talented,” Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said.

“I don’t want to take for granted is JuJu Smith-Schuster. Unbelievable right now with what he is doing, as far as a leader in that room,” Nagy added. “Watching guys out here in walkthroughs, he’s taking these young guys and using his experience and giving his knowledge to them, and it is exciting because he is a great player. So, from top down we have a lot of speed. The guys have knowledge, they’re smart, they play fast and tough. Now, it is just the timing of Pat.”

That timing has been on point so far, thanks in part to the voluntary passing camps that the two-time MVP has run the past few years at his home in Texas. Most of the receivers on the roster show up for at least some of it, and that typically gives them a big jump on training camp, when they begin facing defenders rather than just air.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — After watching his Kansas City Chiefs get dismantled by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl, general manager Brett Veach identified two specific areas where the three-time reigning AFC champions needed to improve.One was left tackle, where a rotating cast struggled all season to protect Patrick Mahomes. The other was wide receiver, where injuries prevented the Chiefs from ever having the group that they expected to have on the field.Now, it appears two positions of weakness in February could be positions of strength by the season opener in September.On the left side of the offensive line, Veach signed Jaylon Moore in free agency, then drafted Josh Simmons in the first round out of Ohio State. He was widely considered to be the most talented tackle prospect available, but a knee injury that robbed Simmons of most of last season also sent his stock falling, and allowed him to fall right into the Chiefs’ lap at No. 32 overall.Three weeks into training camp, not only has Simmons showed no lingering effects of last year’s surgery, but he has routinely punished teammates in 1-on-1 drills, and solidified the starting job ahead of Saturday’s preseason opener in Arizona.“He’s very talented, man. Very, very good rookie so far,” right tackle Jawaan Taylor said. “He’s been soaking up all the things we’ve been teaching him — Coach (Andy) Heck, the players, the veterans, and I feel like he’s going to have a great career here.”The Chiefs need him to have one.They haven’t had a true franchise left tackle since Eric Fisher left after two Pro Bowls following the 2020 season, and that came back to haunt them, especially against the Eagles in February. Mahomes was sacked six times in the 40-22 Super Bowl loss, and he was forced to throw under duress on at least twice that many plays.In training camp, Simmons has consistently given Mahomes more time to throw, and that has resulted in the kinds of explosive downfield passing plays that have been absent from the Kansas City offense the past few years.“First of all, he’s getting a lot of reps, which I think is important for a rookie,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He’s been in there and consistently showing up every day and working and not taking plays off or anything like that.“But he’s a worker,” Reid continued. “I mean, he’s willing to do it. It’s just a matter of keep on going. But he’s done a nice job with what we’ve asked him. He’s working on all the fundamentals and techniques, so that’s a challenge for him.”At the receiving end of all those downfield throws are not only the wide receivers that Mahomes and Co. expected to have last season but a potentially improved group with the addition of fourth-round pick Jalen Royals.Rashee Rice has shown no issues after a torn knee ligament cost him most of last season, while the shoulder injury that kept Marquise Brown off the field for months has likewise healed. Throw in a year of growth for Xavier Worthy, their first-round pick last year, and the Chiefs’ wide receiver group is deeper, faster and more potent than it has been in a while.“Not to take anything away from any receivers that we’ve been with here or anywhere else (but) for me, this collective group of wide receivers from top to bottom is extremely competitive and talented,” Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said.“I don’t want to take for granted is JuJu Smith-Schuster. Unbelievable right now with what he is doing, as far as a leader in that room,” Nagy added. “Watching guys out here in walkthroughs, he’s taking these young guys and using his experience and giving his knowledge to them, and it is exciting because he is a great player. So, from top down we have a lot of speed. The guys have knowledge, they’re smart, they play fast and tough. Now, it is just the timing of Pat.”That timing has been on point so far, thanks in part to the voluntary passing camps that the two-time MVP has run the past few years at his home in Texas. Most of the receivers on the roster show up for at least some of it, and that typically gives them a big jump on training camp, when they begin facing defenders rather than just air.

🏈 Chiefs rookies have shined in camp, helping turn positions of weakness into a strength

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Defending national champion Hutchinson Community College has been picked to win its fifth consecutive Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference football title in a vote of league coaches released Tuesday.

The Blue Dragons, who shared the KJCCC regular-season crown last year with Butler and Coffeyville, received 42 points and six of the seven first-place votes in the 2025 preseason poll. Hutchinson went 11-1 overall in 2024, winning its second national title under sixth-year head coach Drew Dallas.

Garden City, which collected the remaining first-place vote, was picked second with 36 points. The Broncbusters are looking for their first winning season since 2021 under second-year coach Kiyoshi Harris. Butler, coming off its 26th conference championship, was chosen third with 31 points. The Grizzlies are led by first-year head coach Kyle Woodall following the resignation of Bryce Vignery in March.

Coffeyville, which went 9-3 last season and shared the KJCCC title, was picked fourth with 29 points. Dodge City, which finished 6-4 under first-year coach Ryan Lusby, is fifth with 21 points. Independence (17) and Highland (13) round out the poll, with Tom Minnick taking over the Scotties program after a 5-6 season.

The KJCCC season opens Aug. 23, when Independence hosts Trinity Valley at 11 a.m. and Dodge City visits Tyler Junior College at 7 p.m. Highland and Butler open Aug. 30, with the Scotties hosting Snow College and the Grizzlies traveling to Northeast Oklahoma A&amp;M.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754413768319.png" alt="Photo Courtesy KJCCC" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy KJCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Defending national champion Hutchinson Community College has been picked to win its fifth consecutive Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference football title in a vote of league coaches released Tuesday.The Blue Dragons, who shared the KJCCC regular-season crown last year with Butler and Coffeyville, received 42 points and six of the seven first-place votes in the 2025 preseason poll. Hutchinson went 11-1 overall in 2024, winning its second national title under sixth-year head coach Drew Dallas.Garden City, which collected the remaining first-place vote, was picked second with 36 points. The Broncbusters are looking for their first winning season since 2021 under second-year coach Kiyoshi Harris. Butler, coming off its 26th conference championship, was chosen third with 31 points. The Grizzlies are led by first-year head coach Kyle Woodall following the resignation of Bryce Vignery in March.Coffeyville, which went 9-3 last season and shared the KJCCC title, was picked fourth with 29 points. Dodge City, which finished 6-4 under first-year coach Ryan Lusby, is fifth with 21 points. Independence (17) and Highland (13) round out the poll, with Tom Minnick taking over the Scotties program after a 5-6 season.The KJCCC season opens Aug. 23, when Independence hosts Trinity Valley at 11 a.m. and Dodge City visits Tyler Junior College at 7 p.m. Highland and Butler open Aug. 30, with the Scotties hosting Snow College and the Grizzlies traveling to Northeast Oklahoma A&amp;M.

🏈 Blue Dragons picked to win fifth straight KJCCC title

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas'&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-hishaw-jr-/16202">Daniel Hishaw Jr.</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/leshon-williams/16256">Leshon Williams</a>&nbsp;were named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch list, the PWC SMU Athletic Forum announced on Tuesday.

Hishaw and Williams were among the 103 players named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List, which is awarded to the nation's most outstanding running back.

Hishaw, a redshirt senior from Moore, Oklahoma, has rushed for 1,490 career rushing yards on 282 carries for 18 touchdowns. Hishaw had a career season in 2023, rushing 121 times for 626 yards and 8 touchdowns and was later named to the College Football Comeback Player of the Year Watch List. Hishaw has now been named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List for three-straight seasons.

Williams, a transfer running back from Iowa, has rushed for 1,323 career rushing yards on 318 attempts and 3 touchdowns. In 2023, Williams was an honorable mention All-Big Ten member, rushing for a career-high 821 yards on 170 attempts. Williams was also named to the 2024 Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List.

The PwC SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors will name ten semifinalists in November, and three finalists, as voted on by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee, will also be announced in November. The committee will cast a second vote in December to determine the recipient. The National Selection Committee consists of past recipients, former NFL All-Pro and college All-America running backs, media members and selected special representatives. The recipient of the 2025 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12, 2024.

The award is named for SMU's three-time All-America running back Doak Walker. Each Tuesday of this season, The PwC SMU Athletic Forum will once again announce a Doak Walker National Running Back of the week.&nbsp;University athletic departments nominate candidates for the award and can continue to do so through October.

The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State. The season-opener serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">tickets available here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696723119383.jpeg" alt="Kansas running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. (20) is stopped by several UCF defenders during the first half of an NCAA football game, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. (20) is stopped by several UCF defenders during the first half of an NCAA football game, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas'&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/daniel-hishaw-jr-/16202">Daniel Hishaw Jr.</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/leshon-williams/16256">Leshon Williams</a>&nbsp;were named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch list, the PWC SMU Athletic Forum announced on Tuesday.Hishaw and Williams were among the 103 players named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List, which is awarded to the nation's most outstanding running back.Hishaw, a redshirt senior from Moore, Oklahoma, has rushed for 1,490 career rushing yards on 282 carries for 18 touchdowns. Hishaw had a career season in 2023, rushing 121 times for 626 yards and 8 touchdowns and was later named to the College Football Comeback Player of the Year Watch List. Hishaw has now been named to the Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List for three-straight seasons.Williams, a transfer running back from Iowa, has rushed for 1,323 career rushing yards on 318 attempts and 3 touchdowns. In 2023, Williams was an honorable mention All-Big Ten member, rushing for a career-high 821 yards on 170 attempts. Williams was also named to the 2024 Doak Walker Award Preseason Watch List.The PwC SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors will name ten semifinalists in November, and three finalists, as voted on by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee, will also be announced in November. The committee will cast a second vote in December to determine the recipient. The National Selection Committee consists of past recipients, former NFL All-Pro and college All-America running backs, media members and selected special representatives. The recipient of the 2025 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on&nbsp;The Home Depot College Football Awards&nbsp;on December 12, 2024.The award is named for SMU's three-time All-America running back Doak Walker. Each Tuesday of this season, The PwC SMU Athletic Forum will once again announce a Doak Walker National Running Back of the week.&nbsp;University athletic departments nominate candidates for the award and can continue to do so through October.The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State. The season-opener serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">tickets available here</a>.

🏈 KU’s Hishaw, Williams selected to Doak Walker preseason watch list

🎧⚾Royals drop series opener in Boston 🏈 Coaches poll released 🏈Chiefs release depth chart

Following a 5-5 season that fell short of the Bullpups' high standards, McPherson enters the 2025 campaign with a refined identity, explosive skill talent, and a challenge to its younger players: grow up fast.

“We have the smallest senior class this season that we have ever had,” said head coach Jace Pavlovich, who enters his 11th year leading the Bullpups. “But what we have are quality players. We have a chance to be really good but will need help from some sophomores. They will need to mature quickly.”

Pavlovich has built McPherson into one of the most consistent programs in Class 4A, posting an 84-27 record as head coach and contributing to 156 career wins on staff. From 2017 to 2022, the Bullpups averaged over 10 wins per season. But after two straight seasons outside the state quarterfinals, the 2025 team is focused on regaining its postseason edge.

McPherson returns six starters on both sides of the ball and 19 total lettermen. The Spread-I offense is led by senior playmaker Ashton Malm, one of the top receivers in the state, and a supporting cast of experienced skill players including Izyck Puhalla (WR), Bo Barkley (TE), and Dane Becker (TB).

“We are returning one of the best receivers in the state in Ashton Malm and will rely on him heavily,” Pavlovich said. “However, we have a ton of offensive skill players that have the ability to have a breakout year.”

The offensive line will rely on senior Krayton Byrd and Charlie Barrow, but younger players will need to rise into starting roles. A three-way quarterback competition is underway, with upperclassmen vying for the starting spot.

“We have confidence in all of them,” Pavlovich said.

On defense, McPherson is transitioning into a simplified 4-2-5 scheme to emphasize speed and confidence. Returning starters include Jayren Stutzman (DE), Takoda Linn (DB), Nolan Pearcy (LB), Carter Bengston (DB), Dane Becker (DB), and Keaton Crane (C), who also anchors the offensive line.

“Defensively, we will need to cause confusion and use our tremendous team speed,” Pavlovich said. “We need to improve on our team tackling this season as we missed far too many tackles last year.”

Despite roster turnover, McPherson’s expectations remain the same: push deep into November and challenge for a 4A title.

“It has always been about reaching our potential as a team,” Pavlovich said.

Sept. 5 at Great Bend Sept. 12 at Circle Sept. 19 vs. Chanute Sept. 26 at Winfield Oct. 3 vs. Rose Hill Oct. 10 at Mulvane Oct. 17 vs. Augusta Oct. 24 vs. Buhler&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747796777886.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>McPherson Bullpups</h2>Following a 5-5 season that fell short of the Bullpups' high standards, McPherson enters the 2025 campaign with a refined identity, explosive skill talent, and a challenge to its younger players: grow up fast.“We have the smallest senior class this season that we have ever had,” said head coach Jace Pavlovich, who enters his 11th year leading the Bullpups. “But what we have are quality players. We have a chance to be really good but will need help from some sophomores. They will need to mature quickly.”Pavlovich has built McPherson into one of the most consistent programs in Class 4A, posting an 84-27 record as head coach and contributing to 156 career wins on staff. From 2017 to 2022, the Bullpups averaged over 10 wins per season. But after two straight seasons outside the state quarterfinals, the 2025 team is focused on regaining its postseason edge.McPherson returns six starters on both sides of the ball and 19 total lettermen. The Spread-I offense is led by senior playmaker Ashton Malm, one of the top receivers in the state, and a supporting cast of experienced skill players including Izyck Puhalla (WR), Bo Barkley (TE), and Dane Becker (TB).“We are returning one of the best receivers in the state in Ashton Malm and will rely on him heavily,” Pavlovich said. “However, we have a ton of offensive skill players that have the ability to have a breakout year.”The offensive line will rely on senior Krayton Byrd and Charlie Barrow, but younger players will need to rise into starting roles. A three-way quarterback competition is underway, with upperclassmen vying for the starting spot.“We have confidence in all of them,” Pavlovich said.On defense, McPherson is transitioning into a simplified 4-2-5 scheme to emphasize speed and confidence. Returning starters include Jayren Stutzman (DE), Takoda Linn (DB), Nolan Pearcy (LB), Carter Bengston (DB), Dane Becker (DB), and Keaton Crane (C), who also anchors the offensive line.“Defensively, we will need to cause confusion and use our tremendous team speed,” Pavlovich said. “We need to improve on our team tackling this season as we missed far too many tackles last year.”Despite roster turnover, McPherson’s expectations remain the same: push deep into November and challenge for a 4A title.“It has always been about reaching our potential as a team,” Pavlovich said.<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Great Bend Sept. 12 at Circle Sept. 19 vs. Chanute Sept. 26 at Winfield Oct. 3 vs. Rose Hill Oct. 10 at Mulvane Oct. 17 vs. Augusta Oct. 24 vs. Buhler&nbsp;

🏈 High school football preview: McPherson Bullpups

The NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will not expand beyond 68 teams in 2026, but future growth remains on the radar.

“Expanding the tournament fields is no longer being contemplated for the 2026 men’s and women’s basketball championships,” Dan Gavitt, NCAA senior vice president of basketball, said in a statement on Monday. “However, the committees will continue conversations on whether to recommend expanding to 72 or 76 teams in advance of the 2027 championships.”

NCAA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-tournament-march-madness-bracket-expansion-baker-4178f494d068e21d24193ffe45dcdc46">President Charlie Baker</a>&nbsp;has said adding teams could add value to the tournament, and he said the NCAA already has had “good conversations” with TV partners CBS and Warner Bros., whose deal runs through 2032 at the cost of around $1.1 billion a year.

The NCAA Tournament expanded from 64 to 68 teams in 2011. The change introduced the First Four round, a set of pre-tournament games in which the four lowest-seeded at-large teams and four lowest-seeded conference champions compete for spots in the traditional 64-team bracket.

Baker indicated in May that the current formula has flaws and said it would be beneficial to give more opportunities to worthy teams.

“If you have a tournament that’s got 64 or 68 teams in it, you’re going to have a bunch of teams that are probably among what most people would consider to be the best 68 or 70 teams in the country that aren’t going to make the tournament, period,” Baker said then. “The point behind going from 68 to 72 or 76 is to basically give some of those schools that were probably among the 72, 76, 68, 64 best teams in the country a way into the tournament.”

Coaches have expressed different opinions about an expanded bracket. Tom Izzo, Nate Oats and Dan Hurley have indicated they like the field at 68 but Texas coach Sean Miller told CBS Sports he wouldn’t mind expansion.

“Never before has the tournament felt more even, with few exceptions,” Miller said. “On any given night in a 40-minute game, it’s just amazing what can happen. I think adding depth to that will only make what’s already good even better.”

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said the league backs expansion “but you just don’t jump into it.”

“So, if there are reasons from a broadcast point, a financial point, logistics point or competitive realities that don’t support expansion, again, we’re going to be fine,” he said at SEC football media days last month.” But I think this is the right direction to at least explore.”

Kansas coach Bill Self said fellow Big 12 coaches seem to favor an NCAA tourney expansion. The Big 12 had seven bids in 2025, half the total of the SEC.

The NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will not expand beyond 68 teams in 2026, but future growth remains on the radar.“Expanding the tournament fields is no longer being contemplated for the 2026 men’s and women’s basketball championships,” Dan Gavitt, NCAA senior vice president of basketball, said in a statement on Monday. “However, the committees will continue conversations on whether to recommend expanding to 72 or 76 teams in advance of the 2027 championships.”NCAA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-tournament-march-madness-bracket-expansion-baker-4178f494d068e21d24193ffe45dcdc46">President Charlie Baker</a>&nbsp;has said adding teams could add value to the tournament, and he said the NCAA already has had “good conversations” with TV partners CBS and Warner Bros., whose deal runs through 2032 at the cost of around $1.1 billion a year.The NCAA Tournament expanded from 64 to 68 teams in 2011. The change introduced the First Four round, a set of pre-tournament games in which the four lowest-seeded at-large teams and four lowest-seeded conference champions compete for spots in the traditional 64-team bracket.Baker indicated in May that the current formula has flaws and said it would be beneficial to give more opportunities to worthy teams.“If you have a tournament that’s got 64 or 68 teams in it, you’re going to have a bunch of teams that are probably among what most people would consider to be the best 68 or 70 teams in the country that aren’t going to make the tournament, period,” Baker said then. “The point behind going from 68 to 72 or 76 is to basically give some of those schools that were probably among the 72, 76, 68, 64 best teams in the country a way into the tournament.”Coaches have expressed different opinions about an expanded bracket. Tom Izzo, Nate Oats and Dan Hurley have indicated they like the field at 68 but Texas coach Sean Miller told CBS Sports he wouldn’t mind expansion.“Never before has the tournament felt more even, with few exceptions,” Miller said. “On any given night in a 40-minute game, it’s just amazing what can happen. I think adding depth to that will only make what’s already good even better.”SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said the league backs expansion “but you just don’t jump into it.”“So, if there are reasons from a broadcast point, a financial point, logistics point or competitive realities that don’t support expansion, again, we’re going to be fine,” he said at SEC football media days last month.” But I think this is the right direction to at least explore.”Kansas coach Bill Self said fellow Big 12 coaches seem to favor an NCAA tourney expansion. The Big 12 had seven bids in 2025, half the total of the SEC.

🏀 NCAA: No expansion of basketball tournaments beyond 68 teams this season, talks ongoing about 2027

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754399166329.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas Athletics has announced the dates and times for Hawk Talk with Kansas Football head coach&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879" rel="smarttag" rev="879">Lance Leipold</a></dfn>, which begins Monday, August 18, live from Johnny's Tavern West Lawrence.
 The hour-long show will feature Leipold alongside 'Voice of the Jayhawks'&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/brian-hanni/266" rel="smarttag" rev="266">Brian Hanni</a></dfn>&nbsp;and select player guests. The duo will break down the upcoming game, recap recent happenings in Kansas Football and have interactive segments with Jayhawk fans in attendance.
 The first show of the season premieres on Monday, August 18 at 6 p.m., prior to Kansas' season-opener against Fresno State in the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The first two shows will be held on Monday night, before switching to Wednesdays for the remainder of the season. Each show is scheduled for 60 minutes. The show dates and times are subject to change. Check your local listing for availability in your area.
 Hawk Talk can be heard around the state of Kansas on the Jayhawk Radio Network affiliates, KUAthletics.com and the Official Kansas Athletics app, which will also feature a live audio stream of the show. Fans can submit questions to Coach Leipold on KUAthletics.com. Television replays of the show will be available on Cox Communications and ESPN+ the day after the show's original airing date.
 Johnny's Tavern, has 13 locations across Lawrence, Kansas City and Topeka, including a new location in Raymore, Missouri. Johnny's Tavern has been "Serving Up Tradition," with its world-famous hamburgers and pizza, and is a great spot for sports fans as well as families. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnnystavern.com%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cdself%40ku.edu%7C78d8df2a8c4e46c75b6908db9ffa2431%7C3c176536afe643f5b96636feabbe3c1a%7C0%7C0%7C638279668921904677%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=Ief0cEd2PClrQg%2FbjZEQDdgzZzoJY8Owfe4SsP5YM6g%3D&amp;reserved=0">www.johnnystavern.com</a>&nbsp;for the location nearest you.
 The season-opener vs. Fresno State serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">tickets available here</a>.
 2025 Hawk Talk with&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/lance-leipold/879" rel="smarttag" rev="879">Lance Leipold</a></dfn>&nbsp;Schedule All shows will begin at 6 p.m. CT: Monday, August 18 Monday, August 25 Wednesday, September 3 Wednesday, September 17 Wednesday, September 24 Wednesday, October 1 Wednesday, October 8 Wednesday, October 15 Wednesday, October 22 Wednesday, October 29 Wednesday, November 5 Wednesday, November 19
 *All shows are 60 minutes *Show date and time are subject to change.&nbsp; Please check your local listing.</div>

🏈 KU announces Hawk Talk with Lance Leipold dates and times 

BOSTON (AP) — Jarren Duran hit a three-run homer and Brayan Bello pitched six effective innings, helping the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 8-5 on Monday night for their sixth consecutive victory.

Rob Refsnyder drove in two runs, and Duran added a leaping,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/RedSox/status/1952529394649432244">run-saving catch</a>&nbsp;in front of the Green Monster in the fourth.

Bello (8-5) allowed an unearned run and six hits. The right-hander has surrendered three earned runs or fewer in 13 of his last 14 outings.

The Royals got back-to-back home runs from Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia off Jorge Alcala as part of a four-run eighth. But Aroldis Chapman handled the ninth for his 21st save.

Royals starter Bailey Falter (7-6) was pulled after four innings. He was charged with seven runs and eight hits.

Refsnyder put the Red Sox in front with a two-run single in the first. Duran then pushed the lead to 5-0 with two out, hitting a 419-foot drive deep to center for his 12th homer.

Boston rookie Roman Anthony was scratched from his scheduled start in right field due to mid-back tightness. He was replaced by Wilyer Abreu.

With Boston leading 8-5 in the eighth, Kansas City’s Bobby Witt Jr. singled to right field. Nick Loftin attempted to score from second, but Abreu’s throw from right beat him and Loftin was tagged out in a collision with catcher Connor Wong. The Royals challenged, arguing Wong illegally blocked the plate, but it was upheld after a video review.

The Red Sox have outscored their opponents 44-16 during their win streak.

Rookie right-hander Ryan Bergert (1-0, 2.78 ERA) starts for Kansas City on Tuesday night, and left-hander Garrett Crochet (12-4, 2.23 ERA) goes for the Red Sox.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754390202791.jpeg" alt="Boston Red Sox's Jarren Duran watches the flight of his three-run home run in the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park, Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)" />
 <figcaption>Boston Red Sox's Jarren Duran watches the flight of his three-run home run in the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park, Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)</figcaption>
 </figure>BOSTON (AP) — Jarren Duran hit a three-run homer and Brayan Bello pitched six effective innings, helping the Boston Red Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 8-5 on Monday night for their sixth consecutive victory.Rob Refsnyder drove in two runs, and Duran added a leaping,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/RedSox/status/1952529394649432244">run-saving catch</a>&nbsp;in front of the Green Monster in the fourth.Bello (8-5) allowed an unearned run and six hits. The right-hander has surrendered three earned runs or fewer in 13 of his last 14 outings.The Royals got back-to-back home runs from Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia off Jorge Alcala as part of a four-run eighth. But Aroldis Chapman handled the ninth for his 21st save.Royals starter Bailey Falter (7-6) was pulled after four innings. He was charged with seven runs and eight hits.Refsnyder put the Red Sox in front with a two-run single in the first. Duran then pushed the lead to 5-0 with two out, hitting a 419-foot drive deep to center for his 12th homer.Boston rookie Roman Anthony was scratched from his scheduled start in right field due to mid-back tightness. He was replaced by Wilyer Abreu.<h2>Key moment</h2>With Boston leading 8-5 in the eighth, Kansas City’s Bobby Witt Jr. singled to right field. Nick Loftin attempted to score from second, but Abreu’s throw from right beat him and Loftin was tagged out in a collision with catcher Connor Wong. The Royals challenged, arguing Wong illegally blocked the plate, but it was upheld after a video review.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Red Sox have outscored their opponents 44-16 during their win streak.<h2>Up next</h2>Rookie right-hander Ryan Bergert (1-0, 2.78 ERA) starts for Kansas City on Tuesday night, and left-hander Garrett Crochet (12-4, 2.23 ERA) goes for the Red Sox.

⚾ Red Sox ride Duran HR, strong outing from Bello to win over Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs released their first unofficial depth chart Sunday evening ahead of their preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Aug. 9, offering early insight into how the defending Super Bowl champions might shape their 53-man roster.

Though the pecking order remains fluid during training camp, the depth chart revealed a few notable developments—particularly along the offensive and defensive lines.

Perhaps the biggest surprise came on defense, where 2023 first-round draft pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah is listed as the third-string defensive end, behind rookie Ashton Gillotte. Anudike-Uzomah saw rotational snaps as a rookie last season but appears to be battling for playing time early in camp.

On the offensive side, two rookies are currently slated to start in the trenches. Josh Simmons, a first-year offensive tackle, is penciled in at left tackle, while second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia is listed as the starting left guard—replacing veteran Joe Thuney, who had previously held the spot.

The Chiefs and head coach Andy Reid will likely continue to evaluate position battles over the coming weeks as the team prepares for its Aug. 9 matchup in Glendale, Arizona.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753641748665.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks between drills at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid walks between drills at NFL football training camp Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in St. Joseph, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs released their first unofficial depth chart Sunday evening ahead of their preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals on Aug. 9, offering early insight into how the defending Super Bowl champions might shape their 53-man roster.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chiefs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chiefs</a> have released a depth chart as of today for their release packet for the Arizona game. No real surprises when it comes to starters but a few down on the depth chart. <a href="https://t.co/BUWHMBPtuG">pic.twitter.com/BUWHMBPtuG</a>&mdash; Harold R. Kuntz (@HaroldRKuntz3) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaroldRKuntz3/status/1952191170576290237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Though the pecking order remains fluid during training camp, the depth chart revealed a few notable developments—particularly along the offensive and defensive lines.Perhaps the biggest surprise came on defense, where 2023 first-round draft pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah is listed as the third-string defensive end, behind rookie Ashton Gillotte. Anudike-Uzomah saw rotational snaps as a rookie last season but appears to be battling for playing time early in camp.On the offensive side, two rookies are currently slated to start in the trenches. Josh Simmons, a first-year offensive tackle, is penciled in at left tackle, while second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia is listed as the starting left guard—replacing veteran Joe Thuney, who had previously held the spot.The Chiefs and head coach Andy Reid will likely continue to evaluate position battles over the coming weeks as the team prepares for its Aug. 9 matchup in Glendale, Arizona.

🏈 Chiefs release unofficial depth chart ahead of preseason opener

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726284589606.png" alt="Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels (6) runs for a touchdown against UNLV linebacker Mani Powell (16) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan." />
 <figcaption>Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels (6) runs for a touchdown against UNLV linebacker Mani Powell (16) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan.</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Kansas Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
LAWRENCE, Kan. &ndash;&nbsp;Kansas redshirt senior quarterback&nbsp;<dfn><a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/roster/jalon-daniels/16182" rel="smarttag" rev="16182">Jalon Daniels</a></dfn>&nbsp;was one of 45 players named to the Walter Camp Player of the Year Preseason Watch List, the Walter Camp Football Foundation announced on Monday.
 The 2025 watch list includes 38 offensive players (21 quarterbacks, 11 running backs, five receivers/tight ends and one two-way player) along with eight from the defensive side of the ball. Daniels is one of four players from the Big 12 Conference to be named to the preseason watch list.
 Daniels, of Lawndale, Calif., has been named to the Walter Camp Preseason Watch List for three straight seasons. Over his career, Daniels has completed 536-of-875 passing for 6,751 yards and 45 touchdowns. His 6,751 passing yards and 45 passing touchdowns rank second in program history. Daniels has also rushed for 1,043 career yards on 303 carries and 19 touchdowns.
 In 2024, Daniels completed 171-of-300 passing for 2,454 yards and 14 touchdowns. Daniels served as a team captain and led the Jayhawks to three-straight ranked wins for the first time in program history. At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Daniels was named the Big 12 Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year, Kansas' first in program history.
 The Walter Camp Player of the Year Award is the nation's fourth-oldest individual college football accolade and is voted on by the 133 NCAA Bowl Subdivision head coaches and sports information directors. Walter Camp, "The Father of American football," first selected an All-America team in 1889. A former Yale University athlete and football coach, Camp is credited with developing play from scrimmage, set plays, the numerical assessment of goals and tries and the restriction of play to eleven men per side. The Walter Camp Football Foundation &ndash; a New Haven-based all-volunteer group &ndash; was founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideals of Camp and to continue the tradition of selecting annually an All-America team.
 The 2025 Player of Year watch list will be narrowed to 10 semi-finalists in early November, and three finalists will be announced in early December. The 2025 Walter Camp Player of the Year recipient, which is voted on by the 133 NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision head coaches and sports information directors, will be announced on ESPN's College Football Awards Show on December 12.
 The Kansas Jayhawks will kick off the 2025 football season on August 23, 2025 as they debut the new David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium vs. Fresno State. The season-opener serves as the first of seven games coming to Lawrence in 2025, with a full schedule and&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">tickets available here</a>.</div>

🏈 KU's Jalon Daniels named to Walter Camp Player of the Year watch list

🎧⚾Royals win series in Toronto; ⚾ Monarchs claim NBCWS title; 🏀 AfterShocks win $1 million TBT title

After a 4-6 campaign in 2024, the Halstead Dragons are counting on a mix of returning experience, young talent, and positional flexibility to take a step forward in the 2025 season.

“We are very excited to get this group to work this summer,” said head coach Derek Racette, who enters his third season at the helm. “It will be an exciting year and we cannot wait to get started!”

Halstead, a member of the Central Kansas League, returns six starters on offense and six on defense, led by junior fullback Reece Carmichael, who rushed for 520 yards and five touchdowns on 95 carries last season. Senior Noah Diehl also returns as a dual-threat on both sides of the ball. Diehl caught six passes for 131 yards, intercepted four passes as a free safety, and earned All-League honors as a defensive back and return specialist.

“Our ability to be multiple on offense and defense will be a major key this year,” Racette said. “As well as our ability to play multiple kids at each position.”

Carmichael (5-7, 180), Diehl (5-8, 165), senior running back/outside linebacker Brock Odendahl (5-8, 190), and sophomore running back Edric Zorn (6-0, 200) return to anchor the backfield in the Dragons’ Flexbone offense. On the line, senior Logan Overton (6-1, 195) and junior kicker Carlos Martinez (5-11, 160), a first-team All-League selection, also return.

Defensively, Halstead will line up in a 4-2-5 scheme. Carmichael, Diehl, Odendahl, Zorn, Swift, and Overton lead the charge. Carmichael notched a team-high 97 total tackles, including 68 assists and 29 solo stops last season. Overton contributed seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.

“We will be younger this year,” Racette said, “Our players got a lot of experience last year due to injuries.”

Among the underclassmen to watch are sophomore quarterback/defensive back Daminen Whitlock, sophomore lineman/linebacker Cruise Davison, junior linemen Hudson Harrington and Noah Brantley, and junior wideouts Kingston Heck and Jackson Wendling. Several freshmen, including Hudson Hawkins and Dacen Dedman, are also expected to contribute early.

“We have five seniors this year and their leadership and guidance will be critical,” Racette said. “As well as leadership from some of our younger players.”

Sept. 5 at Hesston Sept. 12 at Pratt Sept. 19 vs. Nickerson Sept. 26 vs. Hillsboro Oct. 3 vs. Minneapolis Oct. 10 at Ellsworth Oct. 17 vs. Southeast of Saline Oct. 24 at Lyons

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724267613548.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Halstead Dragons</h2>After a 4-6 campaign in 2024, the Halstead Dragons are counting on a mix of returning experience, young talent, and positional flexibility to take a step forward in the 2025 season.“We are very excited to get this group to work this summer,” said head coach Derek Racette, who enters his third season at the helm. “It will be an exciting year and we cannot wait to get started!”Halstead, a member of the Central Kansas League, returns six starters on offense and six on defense, led by junior fullback Reece Carmichael, who rushed for 520 yards and five touchdowns on 95 carries last season. Senior Noah Diehl also returns as a dual-threat on both sides of the ball. Diehl caught six passes for 131 yards, intercepted four passes as a free safety, and earned All-League honors as a defensive back and return specialist.“Our ability to be multiple on offense and defense will be a major key this year,” Racette said. “As well as our ability to play multiple kids at each position.”Carmichael (5-7, 180), Diehl (5-8, 165), senior running back/outside linebacker Brock Odendahl (5-8, 190), and sophomore running back Edric Zorn (6-0, 200) return to anchor the backfield in the Dragons’ Flexbone offense. On the line, senior Logan Overton (6-1, 195) and junior kicker Carlos Martinez (5-11, 160), a first-team All-League selection, also return.Defensively, Halstead will line up in a 4-2-5 scheme. Carmichael, Diehl, Odendahl, Zorn, Swift, and Overton lead the charge. Carmichael notched a team-high 97 total tackles, including 68 assists and 29 solo stops last season. Overton contributed seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and two forced fumbles.“We will be younger this year,” Racette said, “Our players got a lot of experience last year due to injuries.”Among the underclassmen to watch are sophomore quarterback/defensive back Daminen Whitlock, sophomore lineman/linebacker Cruise Davison, junior linemen Hudson Harrington and Noah Brantley, and junior wideouts Kingston Heck and Jackson Wendling. Several freshmen, including Hudson Hawkins and Dacen Dedman, are also expected to contribute early.“We have five seniors this year and their leadership and guidance will be critical,” Racette said. “As well as leadership from some of our younger players.”<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Hesston Sept. 12 at Pratt Sept. 19 vs. Nickerson Sept. 26 vs. Hillsboro Oct. 3 vs. Minneapolis Oct. 10 at Ellsworth Oct. 17 vs. Southeast of Saline Oct. 24 at Lyons

🏈 High school football preview: Halstead Dragons

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753272422499.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div>Wichita State Athletics
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h2>AfterShocks 82, Eberlein Drive 67</h2>
&nbsp;
<h3>Leading scorers</h3>
&nbsp;
AfterShocks:&nbsp;Marcus Keene 22, Nike Sibande 14 Eberlein Drive:&nbsp;Junathaen Watson 14
 What's next:&nbsp;The AfterShocks are champions of The Basketball Tournament. They will divide the $1 million prize after Sunday's win in front of 9,029 fans, most for a TBT game at Koch Arena.
 They won six games, four by 12 or more points, in Koch Arena to win their first TBT title in six appearances. A 2022 semifinal appearance was their previous best finish. 
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952133031570939931&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F8%2F3%2Faftershocks-win-tbt-title-in-front-of-9-029-fans.aspx&amp;sessionId=50f9a30c427febe964bcefcea44bb59d2e73f0c6&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952133031570939931"></iframe></div>
 Recap:&nbsp;Any account of the 2025 AfterShocks title starts with the fans, who scooped up thousands of tickets starting in 2019. That enthusiasm handed the AfterShocks homecourt advantage each summer. The AfterShocks are 18-2 at Koch Arena.
 This summer, ticket sales determined home court into the quarterfinals, semifinals and finals. Once La Familia (Kentucky alums) lost in its quarterfinal, the AfterShocks had the chance to play their final three games at home.
 Sunday, the AfterShocks continued their dominance of the second quarter by outscoring Eberlein Drive by eight points to build a 46-37 halftime lead. In the six games, the AfterShocks outscored opponents by an average of 8.6 points in the second quarter, topped by a 16-point bulge in the semifinal win over We Are D3. 
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-1&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952121384941093138&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F8%2F3%2Faftershocks-win-tbt-title-in-front-of-9-029-fans.aspx&amp;sessionId=50f9a30c427febe964bcefcea44bb59d2e73f0c6&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952121384941093138"></iframe></div>
 James Woodard, who finished with 11 points, scored nine in the second quarter by make all three of his three-pointers. Keene added seven points and center Marcus Santos Silva handed out four assists.
 Keene scored four points in the Elam Ending, including the clinching free throws.
 The AfterShocks made 11 of 22 three-pointers and shot 61.5 percent from the field. Leyton Hammonds also made all three of his three-pointers.
 Keene, named tournament MVP, scored 11 of his points in the first quarter. The AfterShocks led 18-6 before turnovers let Eberlein Drive narrow the gap. 
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-2" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-2&amp;features=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%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952119338586001834&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F8%2F3%2Faftershocks-win-tbt-title-in-front-of-9-029-fans.aspx&amp;sessionId=50f9a30c427febe964bcefcea44bb59d2e73f0c6&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952119338586001834"></iframe></div>
 The AfterShocks trailed 24-23 in the second period before Woodard's three gave them the lead for good by starting a 9-0 run.
 After Eberlein Drive closed to within six points, threes by Woodard and Hammonds stretched the lead to 46-34. Sibande scored eight of his points in the third quarter. &nbsp; &nbsp;
<div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered"><iframe id="twitter-widget-3" class="" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=AfterShocksTBT&amp;dnt=false&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-3&amp;features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1952137212604108939&amp;lang=en&amp;maxWidth=560px&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fgoshockers.com%2Fnews%2F2025%2F8%2F3%2Faftershocks-win-tbt-title-in-front-of-9-029-fans.aspx&amp;sessionId=50f9a30c427febe964bcefcea44bb59d2e73f0c6&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=550px" width="300" height="150" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-tweet-id="1952137212604108939"></iframe></div></div>

🏀 AfterShocks win $1 million TBT title

TORONTO (AP) — Kyle Isbel hit an RBI double in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 7-4 on Sunday.

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tying single with two out in the eighth, and Kansas City scored five in the 10th while taking two of three from the AL East-leading Blue Jays.

The Royals are 24-12 in series finales, winning their past nine.

Hunter Harvey (1-0) pitched one inning for the win as Kansas City returned to .500 at 56-56.

Nathan Lukes and Addison Barger cut into Kansas City's lead with RBI singles in the bottom of the 10th, but Toronto (65-48) lost a home series for the first time since losing two of three to the White Sox from June 20-22.

Isbel drove in the winning run with a double down the line against Seranthony Domínguez (2-4).

Jonathan India walked and Bobby Witt Jr. was hit by a pitch before Tyler Tolbert added a two-run single.

Witt scored on a throwing error by catcher Alejandro Kirk, and Maikel Garcia capped the rally with a sacrifice fly.

Blue Jays outfielder Joey Loperfido had two hits, including an RBI single in the fifth.

Isbel’s tiebreaking hit came on the first pitch he saw from Domínguez, a 96 mph fastball.

The Royals are 9-7 in series-deciding games.

Royals: LHP Bailey Falter (7-5, 3.73 ERA) is scheduled to start against Red Sox RHP Brayan Bello (7-5, 3.19 ERA) on Monday.

Blue Jays: LHP Eric Lauer (6-2, 2.68 ERA) is expected to face Colorado RHP Tanner Gordon (2-3, 4.85 ERA) on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754259591647.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>TORONTO (AP) — Kyle Isbel hit an RBI double in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 7-4 on Sunday.Vinnie Pasquantino hit a tying single with two out in the eighth, and Kansas City scored five in the 10th while taking two of three from the AL East-leading Blue Jays.The Royals are 24-12 in series finales, winning their past nine.Hunter Harvey (1-0) pitched one inning for the win as Kansas City returned to .500 at 56-56.Nathan Lukes and Addison Barger cut into Kansas City's lead with RBI singles in the bottom of the 10th, but Toronto (65-48) lost a home series for the first time since losing two of three to the White Sox from June 20-22.Isbel drove in the winning run with a double down the line against Seranthony Domínguez (2-4).Jonathan India walked and Bobby Witt Jr. was hit by a pitch before Tyler Tolbert added a two-run single.Witt scored on a throwing error by catcher Alejandro Kirk, and Maikel Garcia capped the rally with a sacrifice fly.Blue Jays outfielder Joey Loperfido had two hits, including an RBI single in the fifth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Isbel’s tiebreaking hit came on the first pitch he saw from Domínguez, a 96 mph fastball.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals are 9-7 in series-deciding games.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals: LHP Bailey Falter (7-5, 3.73 ERA) is scheduled to start against Red Sox RHP Brayan Bello (7-5, 3.19 ERA) on Monday.Blue Jays: LHP Eric Lauer (6-2, 2.68 ERA) is expected to face Colorado RHP Tanner Gordon (2-3, 4.85 ERA) on Monday.

⚾ Royals score 5 runs in the 10th to beat the Blue Jays 

The 2025 season will be a test of growth and grit for the Pratt Greenbacks, who are replacing a highly successful senior class but return a fast and determined core under seventh-year head coach Brent Hoelting.

“How we progress up front will be a key indicator for how our season goes,” said Hoelting, who holds a 28-27 record at Pratt and is 65-42 overall in his head coaching career. “Our attention to detail and work ethic will have to be very good for us to be successful.”

The Greenbacks return three offensive starters and five on defense from last year’s squad, and while they’ll be smaller than in recent years, Hoelting believes the team’s speed and skill position talent will keep them competitive.

Junior quarterback Cresten Pore headlines the returners on offense, along with tight end Arley Morrell, a recent Colorado State commit, and offensive lineman Josiah Schmidt. Morrell brings athleticism and leadership to both sides of the ball as a hybrid playmaker at TE/DE.

“We will have more speed on the offensive side of the ball than we have had since I have been here,” Hoelting said. “But we will be by far smaller than we have ever been.”

Defensively, the Greenbacks will rely on their aggression and pursuit. Linebackers Luke Gatlin, Kyler Barker, and Gavin Rupe, along with strong safety Caleb Strong, give Pratt an experienced core that will fly to the football. Hoelting acknowledged the team will be undersized up front but hopes to overcome it with “aggression and speed.”

New contributors expected to make an impact include Cade Liggett (RB/LB), Hudson Titus (WR/DB), and Landon Demuth (WR/DE), all showing signs of being Friday-night ready.

“We have a bunch of young kids working very hard for a chance to play on Friday nights,” Hoelting said. “We play in a really tough league and district, and we look forward to getting a chance to compete in the fall.”

The Greenbacks also bring in a new voice on defense with Kendall Miller taking over as defensive coordinator. He joins a veteran staff including Parker Titus (DBs), Jake Eisenhauer (WRs), Jason Gallagher (DL), and Tyler Strong (OL).

With a reshaped roster, new coaching leadership on defense, and a chip on their shoulder, the Greenbacks are embracing the challenge.

Sept. 5 at Hoisington Sept. 12 vs. Halstead Sept. 19 at Larned Sept. 26 at Chaparral Oct. 3 vs. Wichita Collegiate Oct. 10 vs. Phillipsburg Oct. 17 at Clearwater Oct. 24 vs. Cheney

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753717029686.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post<h2>Pratt Greenbacks</h2>The 2025 season will be a test of growth and grit for the Pratt Greenbacks, who are replacing a highly successful senior class but return a fast and determined core under seventh-year head coach Brent Hoelting.“How we progress up front will be a key indicator for how our season goes,” said Hoelting, who holds a 28-27 record at Pratt and is 65-42 overall in his head coaching career. “Our attention to detail and work ethic will have to be very good for us to be successful.”The Greenbacks return three offensive starters and five on defense from last year’s squad, and while they’ll be smaller than in recent years, Hoelting believes the team’s speed and skill position talent will keep them competitive.Junior quarterback Cresten Pore headlines the returners on offense, along with tight end Arley Morrell, a recent Colorado State commit, and offensive lineman Josiah Schmidt. Morrell brings athleticism and leadership to both sides of the ball as a hybrid playmaker at TE/DE.“We will have more speed on the offensive side of the ball than we have had since I have been here,” Hoelting said. “But we will be by far smaller than we have ever been.”Defensively, the Greenbacks will rely on their aggression and pursuit. Linebackers Luke Gatlin, Kyler Barker, and Gavin Rupe, along with strong safety Caleb Strong, give Pratt an experienced core that will fly to the football. Hoelting acknowledged the team will be undersized up front but hopes to overcome it with “aggression and speed.”New contributors expected to make an impact include Cade Liggett (RB/LB), Hudson Titus (WR/DB), and Landon Demuth (WR/DE), all showing signs of being Friday-night ready.“We have a bunch of young kids working very hard for a chance to play on Friday nights,” Hoelting said. “We play in a really tough league and district, and we look forward to getting a chance to compete in the fall.”The Greenbacks also bring in a new voice on defense with Kendall Miller taking over as defensive coordinator. He joins a veteran staff including Parker Titus (DBs), Jake Eisenhauer (WRs), Jason Gallagher (DL), and Tyler Strong (OL).With a reshaped roster, new coaching leadership on defense, and a chip on their shoulder, the Greenbacks are embracing the challenge.<h2>2025 Schedule</h2>Sept. 5 at Hoisington Sept. 12 vs. Halstead Sept. 19 at Larned Sept. 26 at Chaparral Oct. 3 vs. Wichita Collegiate Oct. 10 vs. Phillipsburg Oct. 17 at Clearwater Oct. 24 vs. Cheney

🏈 High school football preview: Pratt Greenbacks

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ryan Swanson, a former Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball player and head coach and longtime figure in Reno County athletics and business, died following a medical emergency while on vacation in Branson, Missouri.

Swanson grew up in South Hutchinson and was a standout at Hutchinson High School before playing basketball at Hutchinson Community College. As a Blue Dragon, he helped lead HutchCC to the 1988 NJCAA National Championship and was named an Academic All-American in 1989.

He returned to his alma mater as the head men’s basketball coach from 2006-09, compiling a 66-29 record over three seasons. After his tenure at HutchCC, Swanson remained active in the local basketball community, coaching youth teams and later taking over as head boys basketball coach at Buhler High School from 2015 through the 2021-22 season.

Outside of basketball, Swanson and his wife, Robin, founded Phoenix Restoration and Roofing, a Hutchinson-based business providing 24/7 emergency services for water, fire, storm and mold damage, as well as non-emergency carpet and air-duct cleaning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754188586038.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ryan Swanson, a former Hutchinson Community College men’s basketball player and head coach and longtime figure in Reno County athletics and business, died following a medical emergency while on vacation in Branson, Missouri.Swanson grew up in South Hutchinson and was a standout at Hutchinson High School before playing basketball at Hutchinson Community College. As a Blue Dragon, he helped lead HutchCC to the 1988 NJCAA National Championship and was named an Academic All-American in 1989.He returned to his alma mater as the head men’s basketball coach from 2006-09, compiling a 66-29 record over three seasons. After his tenure at HutchCC, Swanson remained active in the local basketball community, coaching youth teams and later taking over as head boys basketball coach at Buhler High School from 2015 through the 2021-22 season.Outside of basketball, Swanson and his wife, Robin, founded Phoenix Restoration and Roofing, a Hutchinson-based business providing 24/7 emergency services for water, fire, storm and mold damage, as well as non-emergency carpet and air-duct cleaning.Funeral arrangements are pending.

Former HutchCC coach Ryan Swanson dies after medical emergency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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