CLEVELAND (AP) — Rookie C.J. Kayfus hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning as the Cleveland Guardians rallied for a 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.

Cleveland (75-71) has won six of seven and took three of four in the series against its AL Central rival as it tries to stay in contention for the final AL wild card spot.

The Guardians trail Seattle by three games with 15 games remaining.

Kansas City's Vinnie Pasquantino became the fourth left-handed batter in Royals history to record 30 home runs in a season with a two-run drive in the first inning. The last Royals lefty batter to reach the mark was Mike Moustakas with 38 in 2017. The others were John Mayberry (34 in 1975) and Hall of Famer George Brett (30 in 1985).

The Royals (74-73) have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games and are 4 1/2 games back for the final wild card.

Guardians' catcher Bo Naylor led off the eighth with a base hit to right field. Kayfus followed with a towering 425-foot drive to right-center on a low fastball on a 1-0 count from John Schreiber (3-3) for his third homer of the season.

Matt Festa (4-3) got the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Cade Smith hit Jonathan India with a fastball to lead off the ninth and then retired the next three batters for his 13th save.

The Royals were 0 for 6 with runners in scoring position. They had runners at the corners with two outs in the sixth, but Guardians starter Gavin Williams struck out India with a sweeper on a full count to end the frame.

In 30 games since Aug. 10, Pasquatino leads the majors with 33 RBIs and is tied with the Mets’ Juan Soto at 11 home runs.

Royals: Open a three-game series at Philadelphia on Friday with RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-10, 4.63 ERA) on the mound.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Rookie C.J. Kayfus hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning as the Cleveland Guardians rallied for a 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night.Cleveland (75-71) has won six of seven and took three of four in the series against its AL Central rival as it tries to stay in contention for the final AL wild card spot.The Guardians trail Seattle by three games with 15 games remaining.Kansas City's Vinnie Pasquantino became the fourth left-handed batter in Royals history to record 30 home runs in a season with a two-run drive in the first inning. The last Royals lefty batter to reach the mark was Mike Moustakas with 38 in 2017. The others were John Mayberry (34 in 1975) and Hall of Famer George Brett (30 in 1985).The Royals (74-73) have gone 4-6 in their last 10 games and are 4 1/2 games back for the final wild card.Guardians' catcher Bo Naylor led off the eighth with a base hit to right field. Kayfus followed with a towering 425-foot drive to right-center on a low fastball on a 1-0 count from John Schreiber (3-3) for his third homer of the season.Matt Festa (4-3) got the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Cade Smith hit Jonathan India with a fastball to lead off the ninth and then retired the next three batters for his 13th save.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Royals were 0 for 6 with runners in scoring position. They had runners at the corners with two outs in the sixth, but Guardians starter Gavin Williams struck out India with a sweeper on a full count to end the frame.<h2>Key stat</h2>In 30 games since Aug. 10, Pasquatino leads the majors with 33 RBIs and is tied with the Mets’ Juan Soto at 11 home runs.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals: Open a three-game series at Philadelphia on Friday with RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-10, 4.63 ERA) on the mound.

⚾ Kayfus' homer in 8th propels Guardians to victory over Royals

CLEVELAND (AP) — Nick Loftin singled in the tying run and scored on Maikel Garcia’s double in the seventh inning, sending the Kansas City Royals to a 4-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday night.

Kansas City snapped a three-game losing streak and moved within 3 1/2 games of Seattle, which holds the third and final American League wild-card position. The Guardians are three behind the Mariners.

Cleveland led 3-2 after six before Loftin drove in Tyler Tolbert, then came around on Garcia’s liner off the wall in left against Hunter Gaddis. Tim Herrin (5-4) was charged with both runs.

Luinder Avila (1-0) worked two scoreless innings for his first career win and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his major league-leading 39th save.

Kyle Manzardo hit a two-run homer in the first and Bo Naylor had an RBI single in the fourth for Cleveland, which had won five straight. Manzardo’s 432-foot shot off Jonathan Bowlan was the longest of his career and his 26th homer of the season.

Vinnie Pasquantino and Jonathan India both singled in runs for Kansas City. Pasquantino reached 100 RBIs for the first time.

Guardians starter Logan Allen gave up two runs in five innings, remaining winless in seven outings since July 29.

Jac Caglianone walked with one out in the seventh and was replaced by pinch-runner Tolbert, who scored on Loftin’s pinch-hit single off Herrin. Gaddis entered and gave up Garcia’s RBI double.

Kansas City used six pitchers with Bowlan logging the first two innings. Michael Wacha was slated to start before suffering a concussion as a result of what manager Matt Quatraro termed “an off-field accident.”

Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (5-5, 3.88 ERA) faces Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (10-5, 3.17 ERA) in the four-game series finale on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757555342258.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEVELAND (AP) — Nick Loftin singled in the tying run and scored on Maikel Garcia’s double in the seventh inning, sending the Kansas City Royals to a 4-3 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Wednesday night.Kansas City snapped a three-game losing streak and moved within 3 1/2 games of Seattle, which holds the third and final American League wild-card position. The Guardians are three behind the Mariners.Cleveland led 3-2 after six before Loftin drove in Tyler Tolbert, then came around on Garcia’s liner off the wall in left against Hunter Gaddis. Tim Herrin (5-4) was charged with both runs.Luinder Avila (1-0) worked two scoreless innings for his first career win and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth for his major league-leading 39th save.Kyle Manzardo hit a two-run homer in the first and Bo Naylor had an RBI single in the fourth for Cleveland, which had won five straight. Manzardo’s 432-foot shot off Jonathan Bowlan was the longest of his career and his 26th homer of the season.Vinnie Pasquantino and Jonathan India both singled in runs for Kansas City. Pasquantino reached 100 RBIs for the first time.Guardians starter Logan Allen gave up two runs in five innings, remaining winless in seven outings since July 29.<h2>Key moment</h2>Jac Caglianone walked with one out in the seventh and was replaced by pinch-runner Tolbert, who scored on Loftin’s pinch-hit single off Herrin. Gaddis entered and gave up Garcia’s RBI double.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City used six pitchers with Bowlan logging the first two innings. Michael Wacha was slated to start before suffering a concussion as a result of what manager Matt Quatraro termed “an off-field accident.”<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (5-5, 3.88 ERA) faces Guardians RHP Gavin Williams (10-5, 3.17 ERA) in the four-game series finale on Thursday.

⚾ Royals snap 3-game skid with victory over the Guardians

CLEVELAND (AP) — Joey Cantillo allowed four hits in a career-best eight-plus innings, José Ramírez homered, doubled and scored twice, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 on Tuesday night for their fifth straight victory.

Cantillo (5-3) struck out five and didn't issue a walk. Cade Smith pitched a scoreless ninth for his 12th save for the Guardians, who entered play 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the final wild-card spot.

Ramírez, who had three hits, hit a solo homer off Royals starter Noah Cameron (7-6) with two outs in the first. David Fry hit the second of back-to-back to doubles to drive in Ramírez in the fourth.

Cameron, a 26-year-old rookie, gave up two runs on six hits with eight strikeouts in seven innings.

The Guardians, who has won six of seven, beat the Royals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-guardians-score-5675b3be2eb331410784003369761cfa">10-2</a>&nbsp;in the series opener Monday.

Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-india-wacha-1893967f5b5a225280c7786db42aa896">returned</a>&nbsp;from a three-game absence and Jonathan India was activated off the 10-day IL for Kansas City.

Cantillo gave up a leadoff single to Kyle Isbel in the ninth and was replaced by Smith, who got Mikael Garcia to fly out. Isbel moved to second on a wild pitch and advanced to third when Witt singled before Smith struck out Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez to end the game.

The Guardians clinched the season series — and the head-to-head tiebreaker for any postseason implications — over the Royals.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Joey Cantillo allowed four hits in a career-best eight-plus innings, José Ramírez homered, doubled and scored twice, and the Cleveland Guardians beat the Kansas City Royals 2-0 on Tuesday night for their fifth straight victory.Cantillo (5-3) struck out five and didn't issue a walk. Cade Smith pitched a scoreless ninth for his 12th save for the Guardians, who entered play 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the final wild-card spot.Ramírez, who had three hits, hit a solo homer off Royals starter Noah Cameron (7-6) with two outs in the first. David Fry hit the second of back-to-back to doubles to drive in Ramírez in the fourth.Cameron, a 26-year-old rookie, gave up two runs on six hits with eight strikeouts in seven innings.The Guardians, who has won six of seven, beat the Royals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-guardians-score-5675b3be2eb331410784003369761cfa">10-2</a>&nbsp;in the series opener Monday.Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-india-wacha-1893967f5b5a225280c7786db42aa896">returned</a>&nbsp;from a three-game absence and Jonathan India was activated off the 10-day IL for Kansas City.<h2>Key moment</h2>Cantillo gave up a leadoff single to Kyle Isbel in the ninth and was replaced by Smith, who got Mikael Garcia to fly out. Isbel moved to second on a wild pitch and advanced to third when Witt singled before Smith struck out Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez to end the game.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Guardians clinched the season series — and the head-to-head tiebreaker for any postseason implications — over the Royals.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Cantillo pitches 8 innings, Ramírez homers as Guardians beat Royals

CLEVELAND (AP) — Slade Cecconi took a bid to end Cleveland's long no-hitter drought into the eighth inning, and the Guardians rolled to a 10-2 win over Kansas City on Monday night and leapfrogged the Royals in the AL wild-card race.

Cecconi (6-6) was six outs from the first no-hitter in the majors this season — and Cleveland's first since Len Barker's perfect game in 1981 — when Kansas City's Michael Massey singled leading off the eighth.

On Cecconi's 95th pitch, Massey lined a 2-1 fastball into left-center. The right-hander received a nice ovation from the crowd in Progressive Field before Cecconi got Carter Jensen to hit into a double play.

Cleveland (73-70) won its fourth straight game and moved past the Royals (73-71) into second place in the AL Central. Cleveland entered the four-game series 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the third and final wild card spot.

Kyle Manzardo, Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones had two RBIs apiece for Cleveland, which set season highs with 16 hits and seven doubles.

The Guardians tagged Ryan Bergert (2-2) for four RBI doubles and six runs in the fourth inning while opening an 8-0 lead. C.J. Kayfus, Brayan Rocchio, Schneemann and Jones hit the doubles.

Royals All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was not in the starting lineup for the third straight game due to back spasms. Manager Matt Quatraro said Witt ran and did some fielding before the game without any issues and was possible to see “game action.”

Witt didn't get in but is expected to play Tuesday.

Second baseman Rocchio made two nice defensive plays to keep Cecconi's bid intact. In the second, he made a diving stop on Salvador Perez's hard shot up the middle. Two innings later, Rocchio slid in the outfield grass to corral Kyle Isbel's grounder before flipping to second for a forceout.

Since Barker’s perfecto at old Municipal Stadium, eight Cleveland pitchers have carried no-hitters into the ninth inning before their bids were ended. On Aug. 6, Gavin Williams was two outs away before allowing a homer to New York's Juan Soto.

Rookie LHP Noah Cameron (7-6, 3.03 ERA) starts for the Royals against Joey Cantillo (4-3, 3.73), who makes his second career start against Kansas City.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Slade Cecconi took a bid to end Cleveland's long no-hitter drought into the eighth inning, and the Guardians rolled to a 10-2 win over Kansas City on Monday night and leapfrogged the Royals in the AL wild-card race.Cecconi (6-6) was six outs from the first no-hitter in the majors this season — and Cleveland's first since Len Barker's perfect game in 1981 — when Kansas City's Michael Massey singled leading off the eighth.On Cecconi's 95th pitch, Massey lined a 2-1 fastball into left-center. The right-hander received a nice ovation from the crowd in Progressive Field before Cecconi got Carter Jensen to hit into a double play.Cleveland (73-70) won its fourth straight game and moved past the Royals (73-71) into second place in the AL Central. Cleveland entered the four-game series 2 1/2 games behind Seattle for the third and final wild card spot.Kyle Manzardo, Daniel Schneemann and Nolan Jones had two RBIs apiece for Cleveland, which set season highs with 16 hits and seven doubles.The Guardians tagged Ryan Bergert (2-2) for four RBI doubles and six runs in the fourth inning while opening an 8-0 lead. C.J. Kayfus, Brayan Rocchio, Schneemann and Jones hit the doubles.Royals All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was not in the starting lineup for the third straight game due to back spasms. Manager Matt Quatraro said Witt ran and did some fielding before the game without any issues and was possible to see “game action.”Witt didn't get in but is expected to play Tuesday.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Second baseman Rocchio made two nice defensive plays to keep Cecconi's bid intact. In the second, he made a diving stop on Salvador Perez's hard shot up the middle. Two innings later, Rocchio slid in the outfield grass to corral Kyle Isbel's grounder before flipping to second for a forceout.<h2>Key Stat</h2>Since Barker’s perfecto at old Municipal Stadium, eight Cleveland pitchers have carried no-hitters into the ninth inning before their bids were ended. On Aug. 6, Gavin Williams was two outs away before allowing a homer to New York's Juan Soto.<h2>Up Next</h2>Rookie LHP Noah Cameron (7-6, 3.03 ERA) starts for the Royals against Joey Cantillo (4-3, 3.73), who makes his second career start against Kansas City.

⚾ Slade Cecconi loses no-hit bid in 8th, Guards rout Royals 

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview Friday-night’s game at Arizona. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above, while a transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757362232026.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Kansas State head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;and select players met with members of the media on Monday inside the Vanier Family Football Complex to preview Friday-night’s game at Arizona. Links to video and audio of Klieman’s press conference – which was streamed live on ESPN+ – are above, while a transcript of Klieman’s opening statement is below.CHRIS KLIEMAN, HEAD COACHOpening Statement…

 K-State Previews Non-Conference Finale at Weekly Press Conference

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Byron Buxton and Kody Clemens homered and the Minnesota Twins beat Kansas City 5-1 on Sunday to drop the Royals two games back for the last AL wild card.

Buxton led off the game against Michael Lorenzen (5-10) with his 30th homer, extending his career high. He was hit by a 91.8 mph sinker in the fifth inning and was replaced for the bottom of the sixth because of what the Twins said was a bruised left knee.

Clemens hit his 16th homer in the fourth, a 451-drive that gave Minnesota a 3-0 lead. Minnesota padded its advantage in the fourth with a double steal, with Royce Lewis on first and Luke Keaschall on third.

Kansas City (73-69) fell two games behind Seattle (75-68) for the third AL wild card.

Bailey Ober (5-7) gave up one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings,

Lorenzen allowed four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings.

Kansas City scored on Vinnie Pasquantino's RBI single in the sixth.

Kansas City had the potential tying run at the plate with one out in the eighth before Kody Funderburk struck out Pasquantino and Justin Topa retired Salvador Perez on a groundout.

Buxton has 17 leadoff homers, including eight this season.

Twins: RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4, 4.53 ERA) starts Monday against the Los Angeles Angels and RHP Caden Dana (0-0, 4.91).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Byron Buxton and Kody Clemens homered and the Minnesota Twins beat Kansas City 5-1 on Sunday to drop the Royals two games back for the last AL wild card.Buxton led off the game against Michael Lorenzen (5-10) with his 30th homer, extending his career high. He was hit by a 91.8 mph sinker in the fifth inning and was replaced for the bottom of the sixth because of what the Twins said was a bruised left knee.Clemens hit his 16th homer in the fourth, a 451-drive that gave Minnesota a 3-0 lead. Minnesota padded its advantage in the fourth with a double steal, with Royce Lewis on first and Luke Keaschall on third.Kansas City (73-69) fell two games behind Seattle (75-68) for the third AL wild card.Bailey Ober (5-7) gave up one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings,Lorenzen allowed four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings.Kansas City scored on Vinnie Pasquantino's RBI single in the sixth.<h2>Key moment</h2>Kansas City had the potential tying run at the plate with one out in the eighth before Kody Funderburk struck out Pasquantino and Justin Topa retired Salvador Perez on a groundout.<h2>Key stat</h2>Buxton has 17 leadoff homers, including eight this season.<h2>Up next</h2>Twins: RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4, 4.53 ERA) starts Monday against the Los Angeles Angels and RHP Caden Dana (0-0, 4.91).

 ⚾ Royals fall 2 back for last AL wild card after Sunday loss to Twins

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cale Hellums accounted for three touchdowns that included a 14-yard touchdown run with 2:52 left to help Army beat Kansas State 24-21 on Saturday night.

Kansas State’s (1-2) final drive ended when Avery Johnson threw an interception just past midfield.

The Black Knights (1-1) kept the ball on the ground, running the ball 70 times out of their 82 offensive plays. Army had four scoring drives of at least 13 plays, including three which took at least seven minutes, and outgained K-State 332-247 in total yards.

Hellums completed 7 of 11 passes and ran 41 times for 124 yards. He tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Brady Anderson to end the first half.

Hellums later added a 1-yard TD run late in the third quarter that gave the Black Knights a 14-13 lead, but Bryce Noernberg returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards into the end zone and K-State regained the lead, 21-13.

Army held a 40:44 to 19:16 advantage in time of possession and is the first K-State opponent to rush for more than 200 yards since late in the 2023 season.

Johnson finished 15-of-25 passing for 172 yards and threw one touchdown pass to Jaron Tibbs for the Wildcats. Tibbs finished with five catches for 61 yards.

Army: The Black Knights went for it on fourth down seven times, converting six. Their most gutsy attempt was Hellums' TD toss to Anderson on 4th-and-goal from the 2 with three seconds left in the first half.

Kansas State: The Wildcats missed starting running back Dylan Edwards, who was injured in the season's opening game the first time he touched the ball. Without Edwards' explosiveness, the Wildcats rushed for 75 yards on 18 carries.

Army: The Black Knights have next weekend off before hosting North Texas on Sept. 20.

Kansas State: The Wildcats play at Arizona on Friday. Even though both teams are in the Big 12, it will be a non-conference game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757211922333.png" alt="Photo courtesy Army West Point Football" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Army West Point Football</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Cale Hellums accounted for three touchdowns that included a 14-yard touchdown run with 2:52 left to help Army beat Kansas State 24-21 on Saturday night.Kansas State’s (1-2) final drive ended when Avery Johnson threw an interception just past midfield.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757212074482.png" alt="Cale Hellums led the Black Knights to victory -Photo Army West Point Football" />
 <figcaption>Cale Hellums led the Black Knights to victory -Photo Army West Point Football</figcaption>
 </figure>The Black Knights (1-1) kept the ball on the ground, running the ball 70 times out of their 82 offensive plays. Army had four scoring drives of at least 13 plays, including three which took at least seven minutes, and outgained K-State 332-247 in total yards.Hellums completed 7 of 11 passes and ran 41 times for 124 yards. He tossed a 2-yard touchdown pass to Brady Anderson to end the first half.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/NoernbergBryce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NoernbergBryce</a> TO THE HOUSE FOR 99 YARDS <a href="https://t.co/fqY3JFmhJ4">pic.twitter.com/fqY3JFmhJ4</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1964501821969650169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Hellums later added a 1-yard TD run late in the third quarter that gave the Black Knights a 14-13 lead, but Bryce Noernberg returned the ensuing kickoff 99 yards into the end zone and K-State regained the lead, 21-13.Army held a 40:44 to 19:16 advantage in time of possession and is the first K-State opponent to rush for more than 200 yards since late in the 2023 season.Johnson finished 15-of-25 passing for 172 yards and threw one touchdown pass to Jaron Tibbs for the Wildcats. Tibbs finished with five catches for 61 yards.<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Army: The Black Knights went for it on fourth down seven times, converting six. Their most gutsy attempt was Hellums' TD toss to Anderson on 4th-and-goal from the 2 with three seconds left in the first half.Kansas State: The Wildcats missed starting running back Dylan Edwards, who was injured in the season's opening game the first time he touched the ball. Without Edwards' explosiveness, the Wildcats rushed for 75 yards on 18 carries.<h2>Up Next</h2>Army: The Black Knights have next weekend off before hosting North Texas on Sept. 20.Kansas State: The Wildcats play at Arizona on Friday. Even though both teams are in the Big 12, it will be a non-conference game.

🏈 Hellums accounts for 3 TDs to push Army past Kansas State

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez’s three-run homer highlighted a five-run first inning as the Kansas City Royals routed the Minnesota Twins 11-2 on Saturday night.

Vinnie Pasquantino doubled sharply off the right-field fence, producing one run before Salvador Perez’s 25th home run added three more. Nick Loftin’s double to left-center made it 5-0 as the Royals batted around in the first.

Joe Ryan allowed five runs on four hits and four walks while throwing 62 pitches in two innings, his shortest outing since Aug. 7, 2024.

It was a rare poor showing for Ryan (13-8) against Kansas City. In 10 previous starts he was 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA.

James Outman doubled leading off the Twins’ third — snapping an 0-for-14 slump — and Byron Buxton followed with an RBI triple before scoring on Luke Keaschall’s grounder. Buxton’s last eight hits have gone for extra bases.

The Royals responded with three runs in the bottom of the third on RBI hits by Kyle Isbel, Maikel Garcia and Pasquantino.

Stephen Kolek (5-5) allowed two runs on six hits in seven innings, striking out four.

Kansas City native Carter Jensen had an RBI double for his first major league hit.

Pasquantino, Loftin and Jensen each had two RBIs. Loftin had three of the Royals’ 13 hits.

Kansas City played without star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left Friday’s game</a>&nbsp;with low back spasms. Since 2023, the Royals are 3-5 in games Witt misses.

Ryan missed the strike zone with eight of his first 13 pitches.

Pasquantino leads the majors with 28 go-ahead RBIs.

Twins RHP Bailey Ober (4-7, 5.23 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-9, 4.54) on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757212047734.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez’s three-run homer highlighted a five-run first inning as the Kansas City Royals routed the Minnesota Twins 11-2 on Saturday night.Vinnie Pasquantino doubled sharply off the right-field fence, producing one run before Salvador Perez’s 25th home run added three more. Nick Loftin’s double to left-center made it 5-0 as the Royals batted around in the first.Joe Ryan allowed five runs on four hits and four walks while throwing 62 pitches in two innings, his shortest outing since Aug. 7, 2024.It was a rare poor showing for Ryan (13-8) against Kansas City. In 10 previous starts he was 8-0 with a 1.34 ERA.The Twins have lost six straight.James Outman doubled leading off the Twins’ third — snapping an 0-for-14 slump — and Byron Buxton followed with an RBI triple before scoring on Luke Keaschall’s grounder. Buxton’s last eight hits have gone for extra bases.The Royals responded with three runs in the bottom of the third on RBI hits by Kyle Isbel, Maikel Garcia and Pasquantino.Stephen Kolek (5-5) allowed two runs on six hits in seven innings, striking out four.Kansas City native Carter Jensen had an RBI double for his first major league hit.Pasquantino, Loftin and Jensen each had two RBIs. Loftin had three of the Royals’ 13 hits.Kansas City played without star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left Friday’s game</a>&nbsp;with low back spasms. Since 2023, the Royals are 3-5 in games Witt misses.<h2>Key moment</h2>Ryan missed the strike zone with eight of his first 13 pitches.<h2>Key stat</h2>Pasquantino leads the majors with 28 go-ahead RBIs.<h2>Up next</h2>Twins RHP Bailey Ober (4-7, 5.23 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-9, 4.54) on Sunday.

⚾  Perez’s 3-run homer leads Royals’ rout of the Twins

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Beau Pribula threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns, Jamal Roberts ran for 143 yards and the clinching score, and Missouri rallied to beat Kansas 42-31 on Saturday in the first edition of the Border War in more than a decade.

Kevin Coleman Jr. had 10 catches for 126 yards and a touchdown, and Brett Norfleet's second TD grab gave the Tigers (2-0) the lead with 4:14 to go, before their defense stopped Jalon Daniels and Co. and allowed Missouri to put the game away.

“I thought that was one of the coolest things: It wasn't our players folding in the moment that caused us to have issues, it was players making plays in the moment that elevated us,” Tigers coach Eli Drinkwitz said.

The series, which began in 1891 and remains among the most-played in Division I football, had been on hiatus since 2011, when Missouri left the Big 12 for the SEC. That move only added another layer of animosity to a rivalry between states that traces its history to the Civil War, and the bloody conflict between slave states and free states.

The tension was evident from the opening kickoff to the final seconds ticking off the clock.

“There's a lot around it,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said, “but at the same time, it's two teams playing.”

Daniels did his best to lead the Jayhawks (2-1) to victory. He threw for 223 yards and two touchdowns, including one to DeShawn Hanika that gave them a 31-24 lead with 8:45 remaining — a lead that the Kansas defense was unable to hold.

The game was tied 21-all after a first half filled with twists and turns.

Missouri dealt the first blow on Ahmad Hardy's 32-yard run. But the Jayhawks countered with a long TD drive, then returned a fumble 28 yards for another score. Moments later, Daniels silenced sold-out Faurot Field with a sneak for a 21-6 lead.

The Tigers recovered from that quick blitz in the second quarter, though. They allowed Kansas to run just four plays for minus-18 yards, and Pribula's touchdown pass to Coleman — coupled with a safety and two field goals — resulted in a tied score.

Kansas became the first FBS team in a decade to get outgained by 200-plus yards and not trail at the break.

The Jayhawks settled down at halftime, stopping Missouri on fourth down and kicking a field goal in the third quarter to regain the lead. And after the Tigers answered with a methodical 75-yard touchdown drive, Daniels completed a couple of long passes before finding Hanika for the second time in the end zone to give Kansas a 31-24 lead.

Pribula and the Tigers had the final answer, though, twice converting on fourth down before the go-ahead pass to Norfleet late in the game. And after forcing a punt, Roberts put it out of reach with a 63-yard touchdown run in the final minutes.

“Growing up a Mizzou kid, you always heard about this game and how big it is,” Norfleet said. “It's playing for the guy to the left and the right of you, and it's also playing for the past teams that have played KU, and not letting them down.”

Kansas has plenty of opportunities, even after a disastrous second quarter. But it couldn't stop the Tigers on fourth down in the fourth quarter, and that opened the door for Pribula to win the game for them.

Missouri could have been rattled after falling into a 21-6 hole. Instead, the Tigers showed plenty of poise in rallying to victory.

Missouri continues a six-game homestand against Louisiana on Saturday.

Kansas opens Big 12 play against West Virginia on Sept. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757200664616.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Beau Pribula threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns, Jamal Roberts ran for 143 yards and the clinching score, and Missouri rallied to beat Kansas 42-31 on Saturday in the first edition of the Border War in more than a decade.Kevin Coleman Jr. had 10 catches for 126 yards and a touchdown, and Brett Norfleet's second TD grab gave the Tigers (2-0) the lead with 4:14 to go, before their defense stopped Jalon Daniels and Co. and allowed Missouri to put the game away.“I thought that was one of the coolest things: It wasn't our players folding in the moment that caused us to have issues, it was players making plays in the moment that elevated us,” Tigers coach Eli Drinkwitz said.The series, which began in 1891 and remains among the most-played in Division I football, had been on hiatus since 2011, when Missouri left the Big 12 for the SEC. That move only added another layer of animosity to a rivalry between states that traces its history to the Civil War, and the bloody conflict between slave states and free states.The tension was evident from the opening kickoff to the final seconds ticking off the clock.“There's a lot around it,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said, “but at the same time, it's two teams playing.”Daniels did his best to lead the Jayhawks (2-1) to victory. He threw for 223 yards and two touchdowns, including one to DeShawn Hanika that gave them a 31-24 lead with 8:45 remaining — a lead that the Kansas defense was unable to hold.The game was tied 21-all after a first half filled with twists and turns.Missouri dealt the first blow on Ahmad Hardy's 32-yard run. But the Jayhawks countered with a long TD drive, then returned a fumble 28 yards for another score. Moments later, Daniels silenced sold-out Faurot Field with a sneak for a 21-6 lead.The Tigers recovered from that quick blitz in the second quarter, though. They allowed Kansas to run just four plays for minus-18 yards, and Pribula's touchdown pass to Coleman — coupled with a safety and two field goals — resulted in a tied score.Kansas became the first FBS team in a decade to get outgained by 200-plus yards and not trail at the break.The Jayhawks settled down at halftime, stopping Missouri on fourth down and kicking a field goal in the third quarter to regain the lead. And after the Tigers answered with a methodical 75-yard touchdown drive, Daniels completed a couple of long passes before finding Hanika for the second time in the end zone to give Kansas a 31-24 lead.Pribula and the Tigers had the final answer, though, twice converting on fourth down before the go-ahead pass to Norfleet late in the game. And after forcing a punt, Roberts put it out of reach with a 63-yard touchdown run in the final minutes.“Growing up a Mizzou kid, you always heard about this game and how big it is,” Norfleet said. “It's playing for the guy to the left and the right of you, and it's also playing for the past teams that have played KU, and not letting them down.”<h2>The Takeaway</h2>Kansas has plenty of opportunities, even after a disastrous second quarter. But it couldn't stop the Tigers on fourth down in the fourth quarter, and that opened the door for Pribula to win the game for them.Missouri could have been rattled after falling into a 21-6 hole. Instead, the Tigers showed plenty of poise in rallying to victory.<h2>Up next</h2>Missouri continues a six-game homestand against Louisiana on Saturday.Kansas opens Big 12 play against West Virginia on Sept. 20.

🏈 Missouri rallies to beat Kansas in Border War showdown

The Junction City High School Blue Jays kicked off their 2025 football season at home in front of a large crowd on Friday night. The Blue Jays hosted the Colts from Haysville-Campus.

After a slow start, the Blue Jays got themselves in gear and cruised to a 48-3 win over the Colts to begin the season 1-0.

Campus received the opening kickoff and drove down the field, and settled for a 27-yard field goal to lead 3-0. Junction City stalled on their first two drives and trailed at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, the Blue Jays got on the board on a two-yard touchdown pass from Quarterback Conrad Gomez to senior Jamarcus Tyson. JC led 7-3 at halftime.

The second half was a much different story, with the Blue Jays putting up 34 points in the third quarter. Gomez threw a pass to Lance Norris in the flat and then Norris took it 69 yards to the endzone for the first score of the second half. Other third-quarter scores included a 14-yard connection to Brody Boeckman, a 43-yard pass to Tyson, his second touchdown of the night, as well as an 18-yard score to senior Lovell Autry and a 60-yard connection to tight end Ayden Martin.

The Blue Jays added one more score in the fourth quarter and captured the victory, 48-3.

“I told our guys at halftime to just settle in,” Junction City head coach Randall Zimmerman said. “We needed to quit competing against two teams (ourselves and Haysville).”

The Blue Jays certainly settled in and moved to 1-0 on the season. When asked what his message was to the team after the game, Zimmerman said, “We’ve got to clean up some little things and then just keep going.”

Junction City plays at Lawrence High School next Friday night in Week Two of the High School Football season.

As always, you can hear all Blue Jays games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK radio.

** All photos courtesy of Callie Jones.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757137309066.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757137362347.jpeg" alt="Blue Jays running onto the field." />
 <figcaption>Blue Jays running onto the field.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC Post The Junction City High School Blue Jays kicked off their 2025 football season at home in front of a large crowd on Friday night. The Blue Jays hosted the Colts from Haysville-Campus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757137383616.jpeg" alt="A great crowd was in attendance for the home opener." />
 <figcaption>A great crowd was in attendance for the home opener.</figcaption>
 </figure>After a slow start, the Blue Jays got themselves in gear and cruised to a 48-3 win over the Colts to begin the season 1-0.Campus received the opening kickoff and drove down the field, and settled for a 27-yard field goal to lead 3-0. Junction City stalled on their first two drives and trailed at the end of the first quarter.In the second quarter, the Blue Jays got on the board on a two-yard touchdown pass from Quarterback Conrad Gomez to senior Jamarcus Tyson. JC led 7-3 at halftime.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757137285339.jpeg" alt="Lance Norris touchdown" />
 <figcaption>Lance Norris touchdown</figcaption>
 </figure>The second half was a much different story, with the Blue Jays putting up 34 points in the third quarter. Gomez threw a pass to Lance Norris in the flat and then Norris took it 69 yards to the endzone for the first score of the second half. Other third-quarter scores included a 14-yard connection to Brody Boeckman, a 43-yard pass to Tyson, his second touchdown of the night, as well as an 18-yard score to senior Lovell Autry and a 60-yard connection to tight end Ayden Martin.The Blue Jays added one more score in the fourth quarter and captured the victory, 48-3.“I told our guys at halftime to just settle in,” Junction City head coach Randall Zimmerman said. “We needed to quit competing against two teams (ourselves and Haysville).”The Blue Jays certainly settled in and moved to 1-0 on the season. When asked what his message was to the team after the game, Zimmerman said, “We’ve got to clean up some little things and then just keep going.”Junction City plays at Lawrence High School next Friday night in Week Two of the High School Football season.As always, you can hear all Blue Jays games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK radio.** All photos courtesy of Callie Jones.&nbsp;

Blue Jays win season opener, clobbering Haysville-Campus

Justin Herbert finished off the Los Angeles Chargers' season-opening victory in style, sliding for a first down that effectively ended the game.

The quarterback earned style points for his scramble and sideline slide that capped a 318-yard, three-touchdown performance in a 27-21 victory over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-patrick-mahomes-nfl-3a25cf16573bfe80e014b469a30c46ee">Patrick Mahomes</a>&nbsp;and the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday night in Sao Paulo. Herbert had 32 yards rushing, too.

Los Angeles' first win over the Chiefs since Sept. 26, 2021, snapped a seven-game skid against the team that has dominated the AFC for nearly a decade.

“It’s monumental,” Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said. “September 5th will go down in some Charger lore, in my opinion. It was a big win.”

The NFL's second game South America was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-chargers-youtube-daa740fb5a4f05722193297b17201b6a">streamed on YouTube</a>, with Brazilian soccer superstar Neymar in attendance. Newly engaged pop superstar&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brazil-taylor-swift-travis-kelce-17cba7924ac7a744bd0f484252fbaa55">Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;wasn't there to watch fiancé Travis Kelce and see Colombian singer Karol G perform at halftime.

Herbert became just the third quarterback in Chargers history with 300 yards and three TDs in a season opener. His 19-yard run on third-and-14 dashed any comeback hopes the Chiefs had with 2:21 to play. He finished 25 of 34 and was sacked three times.

“We knew it was going to be a dogfight, so we showed up today with our best effort,” Herbert said. “It was fun to see.”

Mahomes was 24 of 39 for 258 yards, one touchdown and two sacks.

“This will be a big lesson for us,” Mahomes said. “They definitely came out with more energy than we did. We got to get better from the start.”

Herbert's 23-yard TD pass to Quentin Johnston extended the lead to 26-18 with 5:02 remaining in the fourth. They hooked up for a 5-yard TD on the Chargers' opening drive of the game.

Chased by Khalil Mack, Mahomes threw incomplete to Marquise Brown on first-and-goal at the LA 9. Two more incomplete passes brought on Harrison Butker, whose 27-yard field goal cut the deficit to 27-21 with 2:34 remaining.

The Chiefs closed to 20-18 on Mahomes' 37-yard TD pass to Kelce early in the fourth. The 2-point conversion failed as Mahomes' pass was incomplete to Noah Gray.

“Multiple times we shot ourselves in the foot,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said.

The Chiefs were already down two receivers to start the game, with Rashee Rice suspended to start the season and rookie Jalen Royals out with a knee injury.

They lost another one three snaps into the game.

Xavier Worthy and teammate Kelce collided on a third-down pass. Worthy had to be helped off the field and was later ruled out with a right shoulder injury.

Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman didn't return after leaving with an ankle injury in the third.

Chargers running back Omarion Hampton made a rookie mistake late in the first half.

The first-round draft pick got a handoff on 3rd-and-16 in the final minute when the Chiefs had no timeouts left. Instead of staying in bounds and letting the clock run, Hampton ran out of bounds. That stopped the clock and the Chargers got a 36-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker for a 13-3 lead.

Mahomes then moved the Chiefs within field goal range and their kicking unit rushed on the field. Butker hit a 59-yarder with the 40 seconds to go, leaving the Chiefs trailing 13-6.

Kelce shoved Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart, who responded with a blow to Kelce’s helmet in the third quarter. Tart was penalized for unnecessary roughness, but wasn't thrown out because he used an open hand.

Chiefs: Host Philadelphia on Sept. 14 in a Super Bowl rematch.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757126487364.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>By BETH HARRIS &nbsp;AP Sports WriterJustin Herbert finished off the Los Angeles Chargers' season-opening victory in style, sliding for a first down that effectively ended the game.The quarterback earned style points for his scramble and sideline slide that capped a 318-yard, three-touchdown performance in a 27-21 victory over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-patrick-mahomes-nfl-3a25cf16573bfe80e014b469a30c46ee">Patrick Mahomes</a>&nbsp;and the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday night in Sao Paulo. Herbert had 32 yards rushing, too.Los Angeles' first win over the Chiefs since Sept. 26, 2021, snapped a seven-game skid against the team that has dominated the AFC for nearly a decade.“It’s monumental,” Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said. “September 5th will go down in some Charger lore, in my opinion. It was a big win.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757126447532.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>The NFL's second game South America was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-chargers-youtube-daa740fb5a4f05722193297b17201b6a">streamed on YouTube</a>, with Brazilian soccer superstar Neymar in attendance. Newly engaged pop superstar&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brazil-taylor-swift-travis-kelce-17cba7924ac7a744bd0f484252fbaa55">Taylor Swift</a>&nbsp;wasn't there to watch fiancé Travis Kelce and see Colombian singer Karol G perform at halftime.Herbert became just the third quarterback in Chargers history with 300 yards and three TDs in a season opener. His 19-yard run on third-and-14 dashed any comeback hopes the Chiefs had with 2:21 to play. He finished 25 of 34 and was sacked three times.“We knew it was going to be a dogfight, so we showed up today with our best effort,” Herbert said. “It was fun to see.”Mahomes was 24 of 39 for 258 yards, one touchdown and two sacks.“This will be a big lesson for us,” Mahomes said. “They definitely came out with more energy than we did. We got to get better from the start.”Herbert's 23-yard TD pass to Quentin Johnston extended the lead to 26-18 with 5:02 remaining in the fourth. They hooked up for a 5-yard TD on the Chargers' opening drive of the game.Chased by Khalil Mack, Mahomes threw incomplete to Marquise Brown on first-and-goal at the LA 9. Two more incomplete passes brought on Harrison Butker, whose 27-yard field goal cut the deficit to 27-21 with 2:34 remaining.The Chiefs closed to 20-18 on Mahomes' 37-yard TD pass to Kelce early in the fourth. The 2-point conversion failed as Mahomes' pass was incomplete to Noah Gray.“Multiple times we shot ourselves in the foot,” Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones said.<h2>Injuries</h2>The Chiefs were already down two receivers to start the game, with Rashee Rice suspended to start the season and rookie Jalen Royals out with a knee injury.They lost another one three snaps into the game.Xavier Worthy and teammate Kelce collided on a third-down pass. Worthy had to be helped off the field and was later ruled out with a right shoulder injury.Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman didn't return after leaving with an ankle injury in the third.<h2>Rookie miscue</h2>Chargers running back Omarion Hampton made a rookie mistake late in the first half.The first-round draft pick got a handoff on 3rd-and-16 in the final minute when the Chiefs had no timeouts left. Instead of staying in bounds and letting the clock run, Hampton ran out of bounds. That stopped the clock and the Chargers got a 36-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker for a 13-3 lead.Mahomes then moved the Chiefs within field goal range and their kicking unit rushed on the field. Butker hit a 59-yarder with the 40 seconds to go, leaving the Chiefs trailing 13-6.<h2>Take that</h2>Kelce shoved Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart, who responded with a blow to Kelce’s helmet in the third quarter. Tart was penalized for unnecessary roughness, but wasn't thrown out because he used an open hand.<h2>Up next</h2>Chiefs: Host Philadelphia on Sept. 14 in a Super Bowl rematch.Chargers: At Las Vegas on Sept. 15.

🏈 Herbert outduels Mahomes as the Chargers beat the Chiefs in Brazil

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-run homer and Michael Wacha pitched 5 2/3 strong innings as the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night.

Garcia hit Pablo López’s first pitch high above the left-field bullpen after Vinnie Pasquantino singled with two out in the third inning for a 2-0 lead. Pasquantino and Garcia each had a pair of hits.

Brooks Lee and Jhonny Pereda hit consecutive doubles in the fifth inning for the Twins' run. Pereda made his Twins debut behind the plate.

The Twins have lost five straight and have baseball’s worst record since the July 31 trade deadline at 11-22.

Wacha (9-11) allowed a run on four hits and two walks, striking out five. He has allowed fewer than three runs in nine of his 10 career starts against the Twins.

Carlos Estévez earned his major league-best 38th save with help from a sliding catch by center fielder Kyle Isbel.

Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left the game</a>&nbsp;after six innings due to low back spasms.

López (5-4) returned from injury for his first start in three months, allowing two runs on six hits in six innings, striking out four. López was placed on the 15-day Injured List on June 4 with a right shoulder strain.

Initially called out on a force at second, Garcia was ruled safe when the Royals challenged that shortstop Lee had dropped the ball before touching second.

Through the first seven games of their current homestand, the Royals are 2 for 26 with runners in scoring position while scoring 10 of 14 runs via home runs.

Twins RHP Joe Ryan (13-7, 3.08 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (4-5, 3.99) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757124612793.png" alt="Photo from Kansas Royals video" />
 <figcaption>Photo from Kansas Royals video</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-run homer and Michael Wacha pitched 5 2/3 strong innings as the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Friday night.Garcia hit Pablo López’s first pitch high above the left-field bullpen after Vinnie Pasquantino singled with two out in the third inning for a 2-0 lead. Pasquantino and Garcia each had a pair of hits.Brooks Lee and Jhonny Pereda hit consecutive doubles in the fifth inning for the Twins' run. Pereda made his Twins debut behind the plate.The Twins have lost five straight and have baseball’s worst record since the July 31 trade deadline at 11-22.Wacha (9-11) allowed a run on four hits and two walks, striking out five. He has allowed fewer than three runs in nine of his 10 career starts against the Twins.Carlos Estévez earned his major league-best 38th save with help from a sliding catch by center fielder Kyle Isbel.Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-bobby-witt-6bcd36293c22fe0e667321eb4c22bdec">left the game</a>&nbsp;after six innings due to low back spasms.López (5-4) returned from injury for his first start in three months, allowing two runs on six hits in six innings, striking out four. López was placed on the 15-day Injured List on June 4 with a right shoulder strain.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Initially called out on a force at second, Garcia was ruled safe when the Royals challenged that shortstop Lee had dropped the ball before touching second.<h2>Key Stat</h2>Through the first seven games of their current homestand, the Royals are 2 for 26 with runners in scoring position while scoring 10 of 14 runs via home runs.<h2>Up Next</h2>Twins RHP Joe Ryan (13-7, 3.08 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Stephen Kolek (4-5, 3.99) on Saturday.

⚾ Garcia's two-run homer lifts the Royals over the Twins

The Junction City Blue Jays are hosting the Haysville-Campus Colts tonight at Blue Jay Stadium in Junction City.&nbsp;

You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.&nbsp;

You can watch the game live on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/9vSJfnoPsgQ?app=desktop&amp;feature=shared">YouTube by clicking here</a>. The Junction City High School student media club is doing the livestream. Anthony Gorges and Brian Field will provide the audio from the KJCK Radio broadcast.&nbsp;

The Junction City Blue Jays are hosting the Haysville-Campus Colts tonight at Blue Jay Stadium in Junction City.&nbsp;You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio.&nbsp;You can watch the game live on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/9vSJfnoPsgQ?app=desktop&amp;feature=shared">YouTube by clicking here</a>. The Junction City High School student media club is doing the livestream. Anthony Gorges and Brian Field will provide the audio from the KJCK Radio broadcast.&nbsp;

WATCH AND LISTEN LIVE: Junction City Blue Jays vs Haysville-Campus Football

The Junction City Lady Jay Tennis team hosted varsity events the past two days.

Thursday, the Lady Jays hosted their annual varsity quad with Lawrence Free State, Salina South and Manhattan.&nbsp; The Lady Jays were able to win 4 of 5 matches vs. Salina South and 3 of 5 matches vs. Lawrence Free State to pick up overall head to head team victories against each school.Leading the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel, who won all 3 of her singles matches at the top spot.&nbsp; Her top win came vs. last year's 6A ninth place finisher from Lawrence Free State.&nbsp; Zoey Micheel, Maddi Sederlin and Skylor O’Sullivan all won 2 of their three matches.&nbsp; Emma Young picked up the other Lady Jay victory winning her singles match at the #2 spot vs. Salina South.&nbsp; Other participants were Hannah Huddleston, Aniela Adjei and Andee Moore.

On Wednesday, the Lady Jays competed against Wabaunsee in a varsity dual.&nbsp; The Lady Jays swept Wabaunsee, winning all 9 matches.&nbsp; Each player played singles and doubles.&nbsp; Competing in the event were Kara Houck, Maddi Sederlin, London Watts, Jocelyn Portugal, Mikaela Portugal and Makayla Vasquez.&nbsp;

The Lady Jays varsity team next competes in the Washburn Rural Quad next Thursday, September 11.&nbsp; Matches will be held at the Kossover Tennis Center and start at 3 pm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757085562147.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Matt MicheelJCHS Tennis CoachThe Junction City Lady Jay Tennis team hosted varsity events the past two days.Thursday, the Lady Jays hosted their annual varsity quad with Lawrence Free State, Salina South and Manhattan.&nbsp; The Lady Jays were able to win 4 of 5 matches vs. Salina South and 3 of 5 matches vs. Lawrence Free State to pick up overall head to head team victories against each school.Leading the Lady Jays was Hannah Micheel, who won all 3 of her singles matches at the top spot.&nbsp; Her top win came vs. last year's 6A ninth place finisher from Lawrence Free State.&nbsp; Zoey Micheel, Maddi Sederlin and Skylor O’Sullivan all won 2 of their three matches.&nbsp; Emma Young picked up the other Lady Jay victory winning her singles match at the #2 spot vs. Salina South.&nbsp; Other participants were Hannah Huddleston, Aniela Adjei and Andee Moore.On Wednesday, the Lady Jays competed against Wabaunsee in a varsity dual.&nbsp; The Lady Jays swept Wabaunsee, winning all 9 matches.&nbsp; Each player played singles and doubles.&nbsp; Competing in the event were Kara Houck, Maddi Sederlin, London Watts, Jocelyn Portugal, Mikaela Portugal and Makayla Vasquez.&nbsp;The Lady Jays varsity team next competes in the Washburn Rural Quad next Thursday, September 11.&nbsp; Matches will be held at the Kossover Tennis Center and start at 3 pm.&nbsp;

Lady Jay Tennis has successful start to the season

The 2025 Fall Football Season begins on Friday night, and the Junction City Blue Jays will begin their season at home at Blue Jay Stadium. 

Junction City will host the Haysville-Campus Colts, with kickoff set for 7:00 p.m. 

The Blue Jays are led by head coach Randall Zimmerman, who is in his 32nd year at the head of the Junction City Program. This is year 41 overall for Zimmerman coaching high school football. “I am very much looking forward to getting going for year 32 with the Blue Jays,” Zimmerman said. 

Junction City once again faces a challenging schedule this season, with key matchups against Lawrence, Wichita Northwest, Hays, Manhattan, and Washburn Rural all on the horizon. “We know we have an incredibly tough schedule,” Zimmerman said. “With that said, we really didn’t talk about that; we talked about us and our team. We need to get better with every snap, every practice, and take those things into our games.” 

Junction City went 5-5 last season and lost in the second round to 6A powerhouse Derby. Despite last year being a tough year for the Blue Jays, several players gained valuable experience. Key returners include senior quarterback Conrad Gomez, senior linebacker and running back Jamarcus Tyson, and senior wide receiver Lovell Autry. On the offensive line, seniors Avery Florence and Blake Proietti will help lead the way up front. Defensively, senior Jackson Hollie will lead the defensive line, along with juniors Noah Aguon and Trevon Briley. Other key pieces on the defensive side of the ball include linebacker Khaliel Walker and defensive back Kingston Timms. 

The Blue Jays began last season beating Campus 55-0 down in Haysville. Junction City will attempt to get off to a quick start again this season, but this time on its home field. 

When talking about the joy of Friday Night Lights, Coach Zimmerman had this to say. “Come out and enjoy these Friday evenings. We’ve got the football game going on, but there are a lot of things happening. Cheerleaders are cheering, the band will be out here, come on out and see all the positive energy from our kids.”

If you want to attend the game, the gate prices for admission for students is $5.00, and adults are $7.00. 

You can always listen to the Junction City High School Blue Jay games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">or by clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe 2025 Fall Football Season begins on Friday night, and the Junction City Blue Jays will begin their season at home at Blue Jay Stadium. Junction City will host the Haysville-Campus Colts, with kickoff set for 7:00 p.m. The Blue Jays are led by head coach Randall Zimmerman, who is in his 32nd year at the head of the Junction City Program. This is year 41 overall for Zimmerman coaching high school football. “I am very much looking forward to getting going for year 32 with the Blue Jays,” Zimmerman said. Junction City once again faces a challenging schedule this season, with key matchups against Lawrence, Wichita Northwest, Hays, Manhattan, and Washburn Rural all on the horizon. “We know we have an incredibly tough schedule,” Zimmerman said. “With that said, we really didn’t talk about that; we talked about us and our team. We need to get better with every snap, every practice, and take those things into our games.” Junction City went 5-5 last season and lost in the second round to 6A powerhouse Derby. Despite last year being a tough year for the Blue Jays, several players gained valuable experience. Key returners include senior quarterback Conrad Gomez, senior linebacker and running back Jamarcus Tyson, and senior wide receiver Lovell Autry. On the offensive line, seniors Avery Florence and Blake Proietti will help lead the way up front. Defensively, senior Jackson Hollie will lead the defensive line, along with juniors Noah Aguon and Trevon Briley. Other key pieces on the defensive side of the ball include linebacker Khaliel Walker and defensive back Kingston Timms. The Blue Jays began last season beating Campus 55-0 down in Haysville. Junction City will attempt to get off to a quick start again this season, but this time on its home field. When talking about the joy of Friday Night Lights, Coach Zimmerman had this to say. “Come out and enjoy these Friday evenings. We’ve got the football game going on, but there are a lot of things happening. Cheerleaders are cheering, the band will be out here, come on out and see all the positive energy from our kids.”If you want to attend the game, the gate prices for admission for students is $5.00, and adults are $7.00. You can always listen to the Junction City High School Blue Jay games on 107.9 FM / 1420 AM KJCK Radio <a href="https://streamdb9web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KJCKAM">or by clicking here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Blue Jays to Kickoff 2025 Season on Friday Night

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a two-out solo home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-3 on Thursday night to avoid a sweep in a three-game series.

The Royals hit four solo homers in a game where all seven runs came on home runs.

Lucas Erceg (7-4) struck out two in one inning and Carlos Estévez picked up his major league-best 37th save.

Angels starter Kyle Hendricks allowed two runs on three hits in six innings, while Kansas City starter Noah Cameron allowed three runs on five hits in five innings.

The Angels got on the board in the first on a three-run homer by Luis Rengifo. With two outs, Taylor Ward singled, Jo Adell walked and Rengifo hit a slider 384 feet down the left-field line.

The Royals answered in the second on Adam Frazier's home run, the 1,000th hit of his MLB career. Vinnie Pasquantino connected on his 29th home run of the season leading off the fourth inning to trim the deficit to 3-2.

The Royals tied it when Salvador Perez hit his 24th home run of the season, leading off the seventh inning.

After the Royals tied the score in the bottom of the seventh, Erceg retired the Angels in order in the eighth.

With his home run, Perez reached 495 career RBIs at Kauffman Stadium, breaking a tie with Frank White for the third most RBIs in the history of the ballpark. He trails George Brett (839) and Hal McRae (534).

The Angels return to start a three-game series with the Athletics. The Angels will send RHP José Soriano (10-9, 3.68 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Mason Barnett (0-1, 11.25).

The Royals continue their nine-game homestand against the Twins. RHP Michael Wacha (8-11, 3.52) will start for Kansas City. Minnesota has not named its starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757038330352.png" alt="Image Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Image Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a two-out solo home run in the eighth inning and the Kansas City Royals beat the Los Angeles Angels 4-3 on Thursday night to avoid a sweep in a three-game series.The Royals hit four solo homers in a game where all seven runs came on home runs.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F2313421895755658%2F&show_text=true&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Lucas Erceg (7-4) struck out two in one inning and Carlos Estévez picked up his major league-best 37th save.Angels starter Kyle Hendricks allowed two runs on three hits in six innings, while Kansas City starter Noah Cameron allowed three runs on five hits in five innings.The Angels got on the board in the first on a three-run homer by Luis Rengifo. With two outs, Taylor Ward singled, Jo Adell walked and Rengifo hit a slider 384 feet down the left-field line.The Royals answered in the second on Adam Frazier's home run, the 1,000th hit of his MLB career. Vinnie Pasquantino connected on his 29th home run of the season leading off the fourth inning to trim the deficit to 3-2.The Royals tied it when Salvador Perez hit his 24th home run of the season, leading off the seventh inning.Ryan Zeferjahn (6-5) took the loss.<h2>Key Moment</h2>After the Royals tied the score in the bottom of the seventh, Erceg retired the Angels in order in the eighth.<h2>Key Stat</h2>With his home run, Perez reached 495 career RBIs at Kauffman Stadium, breaking a tie with Frank White for the third most RBIs in the history of the ballpark. He trails George Brett (839) and Hal McRae (534).<h2>Up Next</h2>The Angels return to start a three-game series with the Athletics. The Angels will send RHP José Soriano (10-9, 3.68 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Mason Barnett (0-1, 11.25).The Royals continue their nine-game homestand against the Twins. RHP Michael Wacha (8-11, 3.52) will start for Kansas City. Minnesota has not named its starter.

⚾ Bobby Witt Jr.'s eighth inning homer helps KC avoid sweep

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka native and Gatorade Kansas Track and Field Player of the Year, Ryin Miller, awarded Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills with a $1,000 grant to help accomplish the mission to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.

Sports have seen a double-digit decline over the past decade, largely due to tighter budgets in communities, but young people that participate in sports are found to be happier, healthier and better students. As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sport, every Player of the Year receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner.

“The Gatorade Player of the Year award highlights student-athletes who set an example both on and off the field,” said Josh Lytel, Associate Marketing Manager for Gatorade Player of the Year. “The grants give these athletes a chance to donate to organizations like, Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, that positively impacts the youth in their own communities.”

“We are deeply grateful to Ryin for selecting Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills as the recipient of her Gatorade Player of the Year donation. She is paving the way for young girls across our community and showing them what dedication and hard work look like. We are proud to cheer her on through her senior year and as she continues her journey at Arkansas—her impact will inspire the next generation of strong, confident girls.” Candice McIntosh, Executive Director for Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills.

Gatorade has a longstanding history of serving athlete communities and it’s ambition is to continue doing more to create positive change. Most recently, Gatorade announced its Fuel Tomorrow commitment, a multi-year initiative to provide opportunities for everyone to play sports and realize their potential.

To keep up to date on the latest happenings, become a fan of Gatorade Player of the Year on Facebook and follow the conversation on Twitter #GatoradePOY. To learn more about Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, visit www.gotrflinthills.org, where you can explore volunteer opportunities, find schools where girls can get involved, and discover ways to donate and support the mission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757008197408.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka native and Gatorade Kansas Track and Field Player of the Year, Ryin Miller, awarded Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills with a $1,000 grant to help accomplish the mission to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.Sports have seen a double-digit decline over the past decade, largely due to tighter budgets in communities, but young people that participate in sports are found to be happier, healthier and better students. As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sport, every Player of the Year receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner.“The Gatorade Player of the Year award highlights student-athletes who set an example both on and off the field,” said Josh Lytel, Associate Marketing Manager for Gatorade Player of the Year. “The grants give these athletes a chance to donate to organizations like, Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, that positively impacts the youth in their own communities.”“We are deeply grateful to Ryin for selecting Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills as the recipient of her Gatorade Player of the Year donation. She is paving the way for young girls across our community and showing them what dedication and hard work look like. We are proud to cheer her on through her senior year and as she continues her journey at Arkansas—her impact will inspire the next generation of strong, confident girls.” Candice McIntosh, Executive Director for Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills.Gatorade has a longstanding history of serving athlete communities and it’s ambition is to continue doing more to create positive change. Most recently, Gatorade announced its Fuel Tomorrow commitment, a multi-year initiative to provide opportunities for everyone to play sports and realize their potential.To keep up to date on the latest happenings, become a fan of Gatorade Player of the Year on Facebook and follow the conversation on Twitter #GatoradePOY. To learn more about Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills, visit www.gotrflinthills.org, where you can explore volunteer opportunities, find schools where girls can get involved, and discover ways to donate and support the mission.