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LIVE: JCHS Baseball v. Topeka

Kansas City, MO. (WIBW) - The Kansas City Chiefs have signed a ceremonial one-day deal with Tamba Hali so that he will officially retire as a member of the organization.

The Chiefs announced the “deal” on the club’s Twitter page Monday morning.

View the tweet<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1391783002578030594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1391783002578030594%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wibw.com%2F2021%2F05%2F10%2Fhali-signs-one-day-contract-to-retire-as-a-chief%2F"> here.</a>

Hali played for the Chiefs from 2006 to 2017 and was selected to the NFL Pro Bowl five times, and played in six Pro Bowls.

The Chiefs released Hali in 2018 after an injury-plagued 2017 season.

By WIBW's Chris FisherKansas City, MO. (WIBW) - The Kansas City Chiefs have signed a ceremonial one-day deal with Tamba Hali so that he will officially retire as a member of the organization.The Chiefs announced the “deal” on the club’s Twitter page Monday morning.View the tweet<a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs/status/1391783002578030594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1391783002578030594%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wibw.com%2F2021%2F05%2F10%2Fhali-signs-one-day-contract-to-retire-as-a-chief%2F"> here.</a>Hali played for the Chiefs from 2006 to 2017 and was selected to the NFL Pro Bowl five times, and played in six Pro Bowls.The Chiefs released Hali in 2018 after an injury-plagued 2017 season.Hali never signed with another team.Copyright 2021 WIBW. All rights reserved.

Hali signs one-day contract to retire as a Chief

Kansas City, MO. (WIBW) - Tickets to see the Kansas City Chiefs go on sale to the general public Thursday, May 13, at 12 p.m.

Presale for previous season ticket holders will be available Thursday at 11 a.m.

The organization says tickets can be purchased online at www.chiefs.com.

Officials say ticket sales will be “sold under a full capacity and ticket delivery will be mobile only.”

The on-sale date comes just after the 2021 regular season schedule is set to be announced on Wednesday night.

To read the full release,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/news/chiefs-2021-single-game-tickets-set-to-go-on-sale-thursday" target="_blank">click here</a>.

By WIBW's Chris FisherKansas City, MO. (WIBW) - Tickets to see the Kansas City Chiefs go on sale to the general public Thursday, May 13, at 12 p.m.Presale for previous season ticket holders will be available Thursday at 11 a.m.The organization says tickets can be purchased online at www.chiefs.com.Officials say ticket sales will be “sold under a full capacity and ticket delivery will be mobile only.”The on-sale date comes just after the 2021 regular season schedule is set to be announced on Wednesday night.Parking passes will be $45 each.To read the full release,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/news/chiefs-2021-single-game-tickets-set-to-go-on-sale-thursday" target="_blank">click here</a>.Copyright 2021 WIBW. All rights reserved.

Chiefs tickets go on sale “under a full capacity” Thursday

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) - A Kansas school board has fired a high school baseball coach for allegedly using a racial slur toward a Black player.

The Kansas City Star reports that the Olathe board met Monday morning and announced the firing of Olathe North High School Coach Pete Flood.

The father of the team’s only Black player told the Star last week that his son was playing rap music through speakers during batting practice before a recent game.

Tony Banks said Flood walked up to Banks’ son and used a racial slur in describing rap music.

Banks shared the story on social media, prompting an outcry.

By WIBW TVOLATHE, Kan. (AP) - A Kansas school board has fired a high school baseball coach for allegedly using a racial slur toward a Black player.The Kansas City Star reports that the Olathe board met Monday morning and announced the firing of Olathe North High School Coach Pete Flood.The father of the team’s only Black player told the Star last week that his son was playing rap music through speakers during batting practice before a recent game.Tony Banks said Flood walked up to Banks’ son and used a racial slur in describing rap music.Banks shared the story on social media, prompting an outcry.Copyright 2021 WIBW. All rights reserved.

Kansas high school coach, accused of racial slur, fired

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Junction City High School Girls Basketball announced its summer youth program Monday, with registration open to girls from 1st grade through 8th grade.&nbsp;

The summer program will help to develop and refine the basketball skills of female youth in the Junction City community, as well as the opportunity to meet and work with JCHS coaches, players, and alumni, as well as meet collegiate players.&nbsp;The program will be run by Junction City Lady Jays Head Coach Tim Testa.

Beginning Monday, July 12th, the program will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:30-8 p.m. at Junction City Middle School. The cost of participation is $45 per child and includes a Lady Jay t-shirt, sticker, and a Lady Jays photo shoot.&nbsp;

Registration is open from May 10th-June 30th and those interested can register <a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/junction-city-ks/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTE1NjkzMDM=">here</a>.

By Jackson SchneiderJUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Junction City High School Girls Basketball announced its summer youth program Monday, with registration open to girls from 1st grade through 8th grade.&nbsp;The summer program will help to develop and refine the basketball skills of female youth in the Junction City community, as well as the opportunity to meet and work with JCHS coaches, players, and alumni, as well as meet collegiate players.&nbsp;The program will be run by Junction City Lady Jays Head Coach Tim Testa.Beginning Monday, July 12th, the program will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:30-8 p.m. at Junction City Middle School. The cost of participation is $45 per child and includes a Lady Jay t-shirt, sticker, and a Lady Jays photo shoot.&nbsp;Registration is open from May 10th-June 30th and those interested can register <a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/junction-city-ks/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTE1NjkzMDM=">here</a>.

Lady Jay Basketball announces Youth Summer Program

The Junction City Blue Jay Tennis team competed in their Class 6A Regional Tennis Tournament over the weekend at the Riverside Tennis Center in Wichita.&nbsp; 

Coach Matt Mikheel said Hayden Diestelkamp won his first match of the day 6-0, 6-0.&nbsp; In his next match he lost in the quarterfinals.&nbsp; He was defeated by a Derby opponent in his next contest, which decided a trip to the state tournament.&nbsp; The top doubles team for the Blue Jays, Nate Green and Alex Matthews, lost their opening contest 4-6, 6-7 to a team from Wichita East.&nbsp; Other participants for the Blue Jays were Thomas Norris in singles and Alan Leis and Nick Beier in doubles.&nbsp; 

Manhattan won the team title.&nbsp; The 6A State tournament will be held at Harmon Park in Prairie Village on May 14-15.

The Junction City Blue Jay Tennis team competed in their Class 6A Regional Tennis Tournament over the weekend at the Riverside Tennis Center in Wichita.&nbsp; Coach Matt Mikheel said Hayden Diestelkamp won his first match of the day 6-0, 6-0.&nbsp; In his next match he lost in the quarterfinals.&nbsp; He was defeated by a Derby opponent in his next contest, which decided a trip to the state tournament.&nbsp; The top doubles team for the Blue Jays, Nate Green and Alex Matthews, lost their opening contest 4-6, 6-7 to a team from Wichita East.&nbsp; Other participants for the Blue Jays were Thomas Norris in singles and Alan Leis and Nick Beier in doubles.&nbsp; Manhattan won the team title.&nbsp; The 6A State tournament will be held at Harmon Park in Prairie Village on May 14-15.

Blue Jays compete at regional tennis

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yermin Mercedes and Jose Abreu had three RBI’s each to help the Chicago White Sox beat Kansas City 9-3, finishing off a three-game sweep and handing the Royals their eight consecutive loss. The Royals went winless on its seven-game homestand. They opened the homestand up 1½ games in the division but leave their friendly confides back 3½ games. They were swept by the Indians earlier in the week. The White Sox have beaten the Royals 10 straight times on the road. The last team to do that was Oakland from 2003-2006 when they beat Kansas City 12 consecutive times in Kauffman Stadium.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yermin Mercedes and Jose Abreu had three RBI’s each to help the Chicago White Sox beat Kansas City 9-3, finishing off a three-game sweep and handing the Royals their eight consecutive loss. The Royals went winless on its seven-game homestand. They opened the homestand up 1½ games in the division but leave their friendly confides back 3½ games. They were swept by the Indians earlier in the week. The White Sox have beaten the Royals 10 straight times on the road. The last team to do that was Oakland from 2003-2006 when they beat Kansas City 12 consecutive times in Kauffman Stadium.

White Sox complete sweep of Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Danny Mendick hit a two-run homer during an eight-run first inning for Chicago, and the White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 9-1. Yoan Moncada drove in three runs on two hits in the first, and Andrew Vaughn, Leury Garcia and Yasmani Grandal each had an RBI. The White Sox hit for the cycle in the inning and scored their most runs in the opening frame on the road in 21 years. Lance Lynn allowed one hit in five scoreless innings to get the win. The Royals have lost seven straight to fall 2 1/2 games behind the White Sox in the AL Central.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Danny Mendick hit a two-run homer during an eight-run first inning for Chicago, and the White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 9-1. Yoan Moncada drove in three runs on two hits in the first, and Andrew Vaughn, Leury Garcia and Yasmani Grandal each had an RBI. The White Sox hit for the cycle in the inning and scored their most runs in the opening frame on the road in 21 years. Lance Lynn allowed one hit in five scoreless innings to get the win. The Royals have lost seven straight to fall 2 1/2 games behind the White Sox in the AL Central.

White Sox roll by sagging Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón struck out eight in six innings, Zack Collins homered and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 on Friday night. The Royals were blanked for the second straight game in part of a six-game losing streak, all to division opponents. Rodón (5-0) limited the Royals to five hits. Kansas City threatened with two on and one out in the fourth, but the righty worked out of the jam with back-to-back strikeouts. Relievers Codi Heuer, Aaron Bummer and Liam Hendriks worked the final three innings to complete the shutout. Hendriks earned with sixth save.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Carlos Rodón struck out eight in six innings, Zack Collins homered and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 on Friday night. The Royals were blanked for the second straight game in part of a six-game losing streak, all to division opponents. Rodón (5-0) limited the Royals to five hits. Kansas City threatened with two on and one out in the fourth, but the righty worked out of the jam with back-to-back strikeouts. Relievers Codi Heuer, Aaron Bummer and Liam Hendriks worked the final three innings to complete the shutout. Hendriks earned with sixth save.

White Sox shut out the Royals

Junction City fell to Washburn Rural in baseball in Topeka bt the scores of 8-0 and 5-3 Friday night. The Blue Jays are 9-9 on the season.

In softball Washburn Rural defeated Junction City at Cleary Field by the scores of 9-0 and 15-0 in five innings. Junction City is 6-12 on the season.

Junction City fell to Washburn Rural in baseball in Topeka bt the scores of 8-0 and 5-3 Friday night. The Blue Jays are 9-9 on the season.--In softball Washburn Rural defeated Junction City at Cleary Field by the scores of 9-0 and 15-0 in five innings. Junction City is 6-12 on the season.

Blue Jays fall to Washburn Rural in baseball an softball

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A pair of Kansas State defensive backs that concluded their collegiate careers in 2020 have earned their shot with NFL teams as the Detroit Lions announced the signing of&nbsp;AJ Parker&nbsp;and the Cleveland Browns have inked&nbsp;Kiondre Thomas. The duo joins&nbsp;Wyatt Hubert, a seventh-round draft pick by Cincinnati, as players on last year’s team to be added to NFL rosters.

Parker was a 33-game starter for the Wildcats who played both nickelback and cornerback throughout his career. He was an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 pick in 2019 despite only playing in eight games as an injury cut his season short. That year, he totaled three interceptions and was tied for second in the Big 12 and 17th&nbsp;nationally in picks prior to his injury. A native of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Parker started nine contests last season, including the TCU game in which his interception-return touchdown in the second half was the difference in a 21-14 victory. Parker earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week and Jim Thorpe Award Player of the Week honors following the game against the Horned Frogs.

A graduate transfer from Minnesota prior to the season, Thomas played in eight games with starts in each of the final four contests of 2020. He had five tackles in the final two games of the year, while he batted away a pass in four different contests. Prior to K-State, Thomas played in 32 games with 16 starts in three years at Minnesota.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A pair of Kansas State defensive backs that concluded their collegiate careers in 2020 have earned their shot with NFL teams as the Detroit Lions announced the signing of&nbsp;AJ Parker&nbsp;and the Cleveland Browns have inked&nbsp;Kiondre Thomas. The duo joins&nbsp;Wyatt Hubert, a seventh-round draft pick by Cincinnati, as players on last year’s team to be added to NFL rosters.Parker was a 33-game starter for the Wildcats who played both nickelback and cornerback throughout his career. He was an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 pick in 2019 despite only playing in eight games as an injury cut his season short. That year, he totaled three interceptions and was tied for second in the Big 12 and 17th&nbsp;nationally in picks prior to his injury. A native of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Parker started nine contests last season, including the TCU game in which his interception-return touchdown in the second half was the difference in a 21-14 victory. Parker earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week and Jim Thorpe Award Player of the Week honors following the game against the Horned Frogs.A graduate transfer from Minnesota prior to the season, Thomas played in eight games with starts in each of the final four contests of 2020. He had five tackles in the final two games of the year, while he batted away a pass in four different contests. Prior to K-State, Thomas played in 32 games with 16 starts in three years at Minnesota.

Two Wildcats sign free agent contracts

By Karissa&nbsp;Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Bill&nbsp;Faflick, Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After months of working with state government, education and health leaders, schools in all 50 states have been given the go-ahead to resume high school sports at some level of competition. Schools in the District of Columbia were the last to receive the green light on April 1. This is great news and signals that a return to normalcy may be on the horizon by the time schools begin sports and activities this fall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Unfortunately, there is an ever-increasing issue that could put a kink in the return-to-play plans in Kansas and across the country – a shortage of officials, as in referees and umpires, that borders on catastrophic in some sports and in some parts of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The shortage of officials in high school – and middle school – sports has been a growing concern for several years; however, the COVID-19 pandemic has moved the issue to heightened levels.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In some cases, schools that have waited months and months to “play ball” have had to cancel games or reschedule games. There are so many contests occurring, with some states currently playing football and other sports they were unable to offer last fall, coupled with regular spring sports now underway, there simply are not enough people to officiate all scheduled games.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO), registration of officials across the country is down about 30 percent this year. In Kansas from 2019-20 to 2020-2021 we saw a 14% reduction of officials registering.&nbsp; Five hundred-twenty fewer officials registered in 2020-2021. In the past 10 years – since 2010-2011 we are down 26% - 1092 few officials registered in 2020-2021. Sports with the largest percent decrease were basketball and wrestling at approximately 17% reduction.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tennessee and Georgia have reported declines in baseball umpires. In one county in Georgia, one middle school had to cancel its baseball season due to a lack of umpires.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In some cases, the number of available officials has declined due to health-related reasons – people opting out this year because of the pandemic. As vaccinations increase and the optics improve, many of these individuals hopefully will return.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For other officials, however, the pandemic was a secondary concern compared to the verbal abuse they receive from fans – mostly parents. It is particularly hard for rookie officials to overcome the verbal shots they hear from parents. In an article in the Salt Lake City Deseret News, Jeff Cluff, assistant director in charge of officials for the UHSAA, had the following to say about unruly fans in his state:&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Parents are out of control . . . Because of the club and super-league culture, they think these games mean everything; we don’t look at it that way in high school. Kids are learning, the officials are learning, the coaches are learning. We have lots of people who are interested in officiating. If we could keep these officials, we’d be fine.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schools in Kansas need two things: 1) more individuals to consider officiating high school sports and 2) an improvement in fan behavior so that officials don’t have to deal with verbal abuse and can feel good about continuing to officiate. Despite the fun and rewards that come with officiating high school sports, no one wants to continue if they are continually berated by fans.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The NFHS has been actively recruiting officials for four years through its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. More than 50,000 individuals have expressed interest in officiating during this time. However, more individuals are desperately needed to keep the games going for the millions of students in middle school and high school sports. Anyone can sign up today at www.highschoolofficials.com.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; More importantly, let’s do all we can to keep the men and women who are currently giving of their time to officiate middle school and high school sports. The next time you think about yelling at the referee during a high school contest, DON’T!

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There is hope on the horizon that the pandemic will not keep kids off the playing fields and courts much longer. Let’s make sure boorish behavior doesn’t keep officials off the same fields and courts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Karissa&nbsp;Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Bill&nbsp;Faflick, Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; After months of working with state government, education and health leaders, schools in all 50 states have been given the go-ahead to resume high school sports at some level of competition. Schools in the District of Columbia were the last to receive the green light on April 1. This is great news and signals that a return to normalcy may be on the horizon by the time schools begin sports and activities this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Unfortunately, there is an ever-increasing issue that could put a kink in the return-to-play plans in Kansas and across the country – a shortage of officials, as in referees and umpires, that borders on catastrophic in some sports and in some parts of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The shortage of officials in high school – and middle school – sports has been a growing concern for several years; however, the COVID-19 pandemic has moved the issue to heightened levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In some cases, schools that have waited months and months to “play ball” have had to cancel games or reschedule games. There are so many contests occurring, with some states currently playing football and other sports they were unable to offer last fall, coupled with regular spring sports now underway, there simply are not enough people to officiate all scheduled games.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO), registration of officials across the country is down about 30 percent this year. In Kansas from 2019-20 to 2020-2021 we saw a 14% reduction of officials registering.&nbsp; Five hundred-twenty fewer officials registered in 2020-2021. In the past 10 years – since 2010-2011 we are down 26% - 1092 few officials registered in 2020-2021. Sports with the largest percent decrease were basketball and wrestling at approximately 17% reduction.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tennessee and Georgia have reported declines in baseball umpires. In one county in Georgia, one middle school had to cancel its baseball season due to a lack of umpires.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In some cases, the number of available officials has declined due to health-related reasons – people opting out this year because of the pandemic. As vaccinations increase and the optics improve, many of these individuals hopefully will return.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For other officials, however, the pandemic was a secondary concern compared to the verbal abuse they receive from fans – mostly parents. It is particularly hard for rookie officials to overcome the verbal shots they hear from parents. In an article in the Salt Lake City Deseret News, Jeff Cluff, assistant director in charge of officials for the UHSAA, had the following to say about unruly fans in his state:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Parents are out of control . . . Because of the club and super-league culture, they think these games mean everything; we don’t look at it that way in high school. Kids are learning, the officials are learning, the coaches are learning. We have lots of people who are interested in officiating. If we could keep these officials, we’d be fine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schools in Kansas need two things: 1) more individuals to consider officiating high school sports and 2) an improvement in fan behavior so that officials don’t have to deal with verbal abuse and can feel good about continuing to officiate. Despite the fun and rewards that come with officiating high school sports, no one wants to continue if they are continually berated by fans.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The NFHS has been actively recruiting officials for four years through its #BecomeAnOfficial campaign. More than 50,000 individuals have expressed interest in officiating during this time. However, more individuals are desperately needed to keep the games going for the millions of students in middle school and high school sports. Anyone can sign up today at www.highschoolofficials.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; More importantly, let’s do all we can to keep the men and women who are currently giving of their time to officiate middle school and high school sports. The next time you think about yelling at the referee during a high school contest, DON’T!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There is hope on the horizon that the pandemic will not keep kids off the playing fields and courts much longer. Let’s make sure boorish behavior doesn’t keep officials off the same fields and courts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Headline: More Officials, Better Fan Behavior Needed in High School Sports

Rolling Meadows Golf Course served as the site for the JCHS Invitational on Thursday. Topeka West captured the team title with a low score of 177. Abilene finished second at 190 and Junction City 13th with a score of 422.

In the individual competition Luke Leonetti of Washburn Rural finished first with a round of 76. For Junction City, Faybien Michael finished 38th with a round of 97, while Brandon Durbin finished 51st with a 101, David Hurley and Tony Jenkins tied for 62nd with a 112.

Rolling Meadows Golf Course served as the site for the JCHS Invitational on Thursday. Topeka West captured the team title with a low score of 177. Abilene finished second at 190 and Junction City 13th with a score of 422.In the individual competition Luke Leonetti of Washburn Rural finished first with a round of 76. For Junction City, Faybien Michael finished 38th with a round of 97, while Brandon Durbin finished 51st with a 101, David Hurley and Tony Jenkins tied for 62nd with a 112.

Blue Jays host the JCHS Invitational

Junction City turned in a strong defensive performance and defeated Topeka West 1-0 in girls soccer at Al Simpler Stadium Thursday evening. It was Senior Night for Junction City, who improved to 6-8 on the season. Brooke Swango scored the lone goal for the Lady Jays.

Despite the fact that it was Senior Night, the Lady Jays will still have a home game against Dodge City&nbsp; on Tuesday.

Junction City turned in a strong defensive performance and defeated Topeka West 1-0 in girls soccer at Al Simpler Stadium Thursday evening. It was Senior Night for Junction City, who improved to 6-8 on the season. Brooke Swango scored the lone goal for the Lady Jays.Despite the fact that it was Senior Night, the Lady Jays will still have a home game against Dodge City&nbsp; on Tuesday.

Lady Jay soccer wins on Senior Night

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Josh Naylor homered in the ninth inning, sending the Cleveland Indians to a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Naylor greeted Wade Davis with a leadoff drive to right for his second homer. Nick Wittgren struck out the side in the eighth for the win, and James Karinchak worked the ninth for his third save. Cleveland trailed 4-0 after five innings. It has rallied to win in the first three games of the four-game set.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Josh Naylor homered in the ninth inning, sending the Cleveland Indians to a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Naylor greeted Wade Davis with a leadoff drive to right for his second homer. Nick Wittgren struck out the side in the eighth for the win, and James Karinchak worked the ninth for his third save. Cleveland trailed 4-0 after five innings. It has rallied to win in the first three games of the four-game set.

Royals lose again to the Indians

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;was named the winner of the Rolando Blackman Most Valuable Player Award, along with the Bob Boozer Courage Award, as the Kansas State men’s basketball team honored their team award winners for the 2020-21 season at the conclusion of spring workouts.

Due to injuries and COVID-19 protocols, McGuirl was the only Wildcat to start all 29 games, while he played a key role in mentoring one of the youngest teams in the country. Three true freshmen (Davion Bradford,&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack) started together in 17 of 29 games, including 12 in Big 12 play.

McGuirl, along with sophomore&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and freshmen&nbsp;Davion Bradford&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack, each captured two awards. Bradford was named the winner of the Porky Morgan Most Inspirational Player and Ed Nealy Most Improved Player awards, Ezeagu earned the Dean Harris Sixth Man and Keith Amerson Academic awards, while Pack was selected as winner of the Tex Winter Top Offensive Player and Mitch Richmond Mr. Basketball awards.

TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– Senior&nbsp;Mike McGuirl&nbsp;was named the winner of the Rolando Blackman Most Valuable Player Award, along with the Bob Boozer Courage Award, as the Kansas State men’s basketball team honored their team award winners for the 2020-21 season at the conclusion of spring workouts.Due to injuries and COVID-19 protocols, McGuirl was the only Wildcat to start all 29 games, while he played a key role in mentoring one of the youngest teams in the country. Three true freshmen (Davion Bradford,&nbsp;Selton Miguel&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack) started together in 17 of 29 games, including 12 in Big 12 play.McGuirl, along with sophomore&nbsp;Kaosi Ezeagu&nbsp;and freshmen&nbsp;Davion Bradford&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nijel Pack, each captured two awards. Bradford was named the winner of the Porky Morgan Most Inspirational Player and Ed Nealy Most Improved Player awards, Ezeagu earned the Dean Harris Sixth Man and Keith Amerson Academic awards, while Pack was selected as winner of the Tex Winter Top Offensive Player and Mitch Richmond Mr. Basketball awards.TOM GILBERT Director for Men’s Basketball Communications | K-State Athletics&nbsp;&nbsp;

McGuirl named MVP of 2020-21 campaign

Junction City Lady Jay softball won both ends of a doubleheader against Highland Park 21-1 and 19-0. The games were played at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.

Junction City Lady Jay softball won both ends of a doubleheader against Highland Park 21-1 and 19-0. The games were played at Hummer Sports Park in Topeka.

Lady Jay softball sweeps Highland Park

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Harold Ramirez hit a go-ahead double in the eighth, pinch-hitter Jake Bauers added a two-run homer later in the inning and the Cleveland Indians beat the Kansas City Royals 7-3. 

Strong bullpen work by Nick Sandlin, Nick Wittgren and Cal Quantrill shut out the Royals over the final four innings as Cleveland rallied from a three-run deficit. Wittgren earned the win, while reliever Josh Staumont took the loss for Kansas City. 

Salvador Perez had the big highlight for the Royals with a homer that splashed into the fountains an estimated 460 feet from home plate.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Harold Ramirez hit a go-ahead double in the eighth, pinch-hitter Jake Bauers added a two-run homer later in the inning and the Cleveland Indians beat the Kansas City Royals 7-3. Strong bullpen work by Nick Sandlin, Nick Wittgren and Cal Quantrill shut out the Royals over the final four innings as Cleveland rallied from a three-run deficit. Wittgren earned the win, while reliever Josh Staumont took the loss for Kansas City. Salvador Perez had the big highlight for the Royals with a homer that splashed into the fountains an estimated 460 feet from home plate.

Ramirez, Bauers help Indians rally for 7-3 win over Royals

MANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has signed international talent Malene Lind Pedersen to a National Letter of Intent. Pedersen will join the Wildcat roster for the 2021-22 season.

Pedersen joins previous K-State signees: Rebekah Dallinger (Sydney, Australia), Brylee Glenn (Raymore, Missouri), Jaelyn Glenn (Raymore, Missouri) and Serena Sundell (Maryville, Missouri). Pedersen is the first women’s basketball player in program history from Denmark.

“Malene is a player that fills the stat sheet in every way,” said Mittie. “She can play multiple positions and possesses a good knack for scoring. She is a possible redshirt, as she sustained a late season injury. We will assess this when she arrives on campus.”

Pedersen, a 5-11 guard, joins the Wildcats from Aabyhoj, Denmark, and is the first Wildcat women’s basketball player from Denmark. Pedersen played her club career with Aabyhoj IF in the Danish Women’s League. She was a two-time Danish Women’s League All-Star team selection in 2019 and 2021.

In the 2019 season, Pedersen was awarded the Danish Women’s League Talent of the Year by leading Aabyhoj IF to the Danish Women’s League title and was named the player of the game in the final. She averaged 14.9 points on a .556 field goal percentage in 17 games, including a .380 effort from 3-point range. She also pulled in 5.1 rebounds and pocketed 1.6 steals.

In 2021, Pedersen played in 13 games and led the squad with 19.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.6 steals. She also handed out 3.1 assists. She tallied seven games with 20 or more points and also carded four double-doubles.

In her international career, Pedersen has played for Denmark Senior and Youth National Teams. In her most recent international experience, Pedersen played in the 2019-20 FIBA Women's Eurobasket Qualifiers with the Denmark Women’s National Team and recorded 1.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 0.7 assists in three games played.

In 2018, Pedersen took part in the 2018 Basketball Without Borders Camp in Belgrade, Serbia, and was named the camp’s MVP and was selected to the All-Star team.

In 2017, Pedersen helped Denmark’s U16 National Team capture the 2017 U16 Women’s European Championship in division B and named to the All-Tournament Team.

K-State concluded the 53rd&nbsp;season in program history in 2020-21. The Wildcats will return 2021 All-Big 12 recipient Ayoka Lee and preseason 2020-21 All-Big 12 honorable mention selection Rachel Ranke for the 2021-22 season.

Name, Height, Position, Hometown, School

Rebekah Dallinger, Guard, Sydney, Australia, Miles (Montana) Community College

Brylee Glenn, Guard, Raymore, Missouri, The Barstow School

Jaelyn Glenn, Guard, Raymore, Missouri, The Barstow School

Malene Lind Pedersen, Guard, Aabyhoj, Denmark

Serena Sundell, Guard, Maryville, Missouri, Maryville High School

– <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a> –

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620180292125.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kstatesports.com/">kstatesports.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://kstatesports.com/">kstatesports.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has signed international talent Malene Lind Pedersen to a National Letter of Intent. Pedersen will join the Wildcat roster for the 2021-22 season.Pedersen joins previous K-State signees: Rebekah Dallinger (Sydney, Australia), Brylee Glenn (Raymore, Missouri), Jaelyn Glenn (Raymore, Missouri) and Serena Sundell (Maryville, Missouri). Pedersen is the first women’s basketball player in program history from Denmark.“Malene is a player that fills the stat sheet in every way,” said Mittie. “She can play multiple positions and possesses a good knack for scoring. She is a possible redshirt, as she sustained a late season injury. We will assess this when she arrives on campus.”Pedersen, a 5-11 guard, joins the Wildcats from Aabyhoj, Denmark, and is the first Wildcat women’s basketball player from Denmark. Pedersen played her club career with Aabyhoj IF in the Danish Women’s League. She was a two-time Danish Women’s League All-Star team selection in 2019 and 2021.In the 2019 season, Pedersen was awarded the Danish Women’s League Talent of the Year by leading Aabyhoj IF to the Danish Women’s League title and was named the player of the game in the final. She averaged 14.9 points on a .556 field goal percentage in 17 games, including a .380 effort from 3-point range. She also pulled in 5.1 rebounds and pocketed 1.6 steals.In 2021, Pedersen played in 13 games and led the squad with 19.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 2.6 steals. She also handed out 3.1 assists. She tallied seven games with 20 or more points and also carded four double-doubles.In her international career, Pedersen has played for Denmark Senior and Youth National Teams. In her most recent international experience, Pedersen played in the 2019-20 FIBA Women's Eurobasket Qualifiers with the Denmark Women’s National Team and recorded 1.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 0.7 assists in three games played.In 2018, Pedersen took part in the 2018 Basketball Without Borders Camp in Belgrade, Serbia, and was named the camp’s MVP and was selected to the All-Star team.In 2017, Pedersen helped Denmark’s U16 National Team capture the 2017 U16 Women’s European Championship in division B and named to the All-Tournament Team.K-State concluded the 53rd&nbsp;season in program history in 2020-21. The Wildcats will return 2021 All-Big 12 recipient Ayoka Lee and preseason 2020-21 All-Big 12 honorable mention selection Rachel Ranke for the 2021-22 season.<h2>K-State 2020-21 signees</h2>Name, Height, Position, Hometown, SchoolRebekah Dallinger, Guard, Sydney, Australia, Miles (Montana) Community CollegeBrylee Glenn, Guard, Raymore, Missouri, The Barstow SchoolJaelyn Glenn, Guard, Raymore, Missouri, The Barstow SchoolMalene Lind Pedersen, Guard, Aabyhoj, DenmarkSerena Sundell, Guard, Maryville, Missouri, Maryville High School– <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a> –

K-State women's basketball adds Pedersen to 2021-22 roster

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Junction City High School girl's soccer team defeated Highland Park 5-1 on Tuesday night at Simpler Stadium.&nbsp;

In the victory, Brooke Swango scored three goals for the Lady Jays.&nbsp;

JCHS is now 5-8 on the season and will play Topeka West on Thursday night.

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Junction City High School girl's soccer team defeated Highland Park 5-1 on Tuesday night at Simpler Stadium.&nbsp;In the victory, Brooke Swango scored three goals for the Lady Jays.&nbsp;JCHS is now 5-8 on the season and will play Topeka West on Thursday night.

JCHS girls soccer dominates Highland Park

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Eddie Rosario hit a tiebreaking three-run homer in the seventh inning that sent the Cleveland Indians to an 8-6 win over the Kansas City Royals.

Josh Naylor added a two-run shot off Royals reliever Jakob Junis two batters after Rosario during what became a five-run inning. Bryan Shaw got the win in relief of Indians starter Aaron Civale. Emmanuel Clase handled the ninth for his sixth save and has yet to allow an earned run in 13 1/3 innings this season.

Whit Merrifield and Hunter Dozier had two-run homers for Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Eddie Rosario hit a tiebreaking three-run homer in the seventh inning that sent the Cleveland Indians to an 8-6 win over the Kansas City Royals.Josh Naylor added a two-run shot off Royals reliever Jakob Junis two batters after Rosario during what became a five-run inning. Bryan Shaw got the win in relief of Indians starter Aaron Civale. Emmanuel Clase handled the ninth for his sixth save and has yet to allow an earned run in 13 1/3 innings this season.Whit Merrifield and Hunter Dozier had two-run homers for Kansas City.

 Rosario's 3-run homer sends Indians to 8-6 win over Royals

&nbsp;The Junction City Blue Jays had their most success in singles at the Centennial League Tournament on Monday in Topeka as Hayden Diestelkamp finished 7th&nbsp;on the day with a 3-2 record and Thomas Norris finished in 11th&nbsp;place with a 2-3 record.&nbsp; 

According to coach Matt Mikheel, in doubles Nate Green and Alex Matthews teamed up on the day to win 3 matches and earn a 13th&nbsp;place finish.&nbsp; Alan Leis and Nick Beier also represented the Blue Jay tennis team in doubles.&nbsp; 

Overall, the Blue Jays finished 6th&nbsp;as a team, with Manhattan winning the team championship, followed by Topeka West and Washburn Rural.&nbsp; The Blue Jay tennis team competes in their regional tournament this Saturday at the Ralph Wulz Riverside Tennis Center in Wichita.&nbsp; Matches will begin at 10 am.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The Junction City Blue Jays had their most success in singles at the Centennial League Tournament on Monday in Topeka as Hayden Diestelkamp finished 7th&nbsp;on the day with a 3-2 record and Thomas Norris finished in 11th&nbsp;place with a 2-3 record.&nbsp; According to coach Matt Mikheel, in doubles Nate Green and Alex Matthews teamed up on the day to win 3 matches and earn a 13th&nbsp;place finish.&nbsp; Alan Leis and Nick Beier also represented the Blue Jay tennis team in doubles.&nbsp; Overall, the Blue Jays finished 6th&nbsp;as a team, with Manhattan winning the team championship, followed by Topeka West and Washburn Rural.&nbsp; The Blue Jay tennis team competes in their regional tournament this Saturday at the Ralph Wulz Riverside Tennis Center in Wichita.&nbsp; Matches will begin at 10 am.&nbsp;

Blue Jay tennis competes at Centennial League Tournament

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - WBCA National Two-Year Player of the Year Rebekah Dallinger will join Jeff Mittie’s squad at K-State for the upcoming season.

The Sydney, Australia-native comes to Manhattan following one season at Miles (Montana) Community College where she earned the 2021 WBCA National Two-Year Player of the Year and 2021 WBCA All-America First Team honors.

While in Montana, Dallinger led the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I in points per game (25.8) and total points (644) en route a 24-2 season ending in the Pioneers’ first-ever national championship.

Dallinger scored 20 or more points in 19 games, including nine games of 30 or more and two games with 40 or more.

By WIBWMANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - WBCA National Two-Year Player of the Year Rebekah Dallinger will join Jeff Mittie’s squad at K-State for the upcoming season.The Sydney, Australia-native comes to Manhattan following one season at Miles (Montana) Community College where she earned the 2021 WBCA National Two-Year Player of the Year and 2021 WBCA All-America First Team honors.While in Montana, Dallinger led the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I in points per game (25.8) and total points (644) en route a 24-2 season ending in the Pioneers’ first-ever national championship.Dallinger scored 20 or more points in 19 games, including nine games of 30 or more and two games with 40 or more.

K-State signs Player of the Year

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– With a home run in four straight games and 15 RBI last week, K-State senior&nbsp;Chris Ceballos&nbsp;was selected as Big 12 Player of the Week, the conference office announced Monday.

Ceballos put together a slash line of .538/.600/1.615 in the Wildcats’ 4-0 week that was capped by a weekend sweep of Texas Southern. In a 13-8 win over Missouri last Tuesday, Ceballos went 3-for-4 with two doubles, a home run and a career-high five RBI.

The Chino Hills, California, launched his first career grand slam in the series opener against the Tigers Friday before connecting on three-run homers Saturday and Sunday. Ceballos’ home run and RBI totals along with his slugging percentage were all the top marks in the Big 12 last week, as the second-highest RBI total was eight.

Ceballos’ efforts helped push the Cats’ winning streak to a season-best six games. In four games last week, K-State totaled 60 runs and a dozen home runs. K-State plated 47 runs in its three-game sweep of Texas Southern, finishing a 12-game homestand with a 10-2 record.

The weekly honor is the second in the career of Ceballos, as he was named Big 12 Newcomer of the Week on May 13, 2019. He joins&nbsp;Connor McCullough&nbsp;(April 26) and&nbsp;Jordan Wicks&nbsp;(February 22), who were each named Pitcher of the Week, as Wildcats to collect a weekly conference award this year.

The Cats begin a six-game Big 12 road swing with a trip to Baylor Friday. The three-game series will be broadcast on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and the ESPN app. Radio coverage is available on News Radio KMAN (93.3 FM, 1350 AM) with free audio streaming at K-StateSports.com/watch.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– With a home run in four straight games and 15 RBI last week, K-State senior&nbsp;Chris Ceballos&nbsp;was selected as Big 12 Player of the Week, the conference office announced Monday.Ceballos put together a slash line of .538/.600/1.615 in the Wildcats’ 4-0 week that was capped by a weekend sweep of Texas Southern. In a 13-8 win over Missouri last Tuesday, Ceballos went 3-for-4 with two doubles, a home run and a career-high five RBI.The Chino Hills, California, launched his first career grand slam in the series opener against the Tigers Friday before connecting on three-run homers Saturday and Sunday. Ceballos’ home run and RBI totals along with his slugging percentage were all the top marks in the Big 12 last week, as the second-highest RBI total was eight.Ceballos’ efforts helped push the Cats’ winning streak to a season-best six games. In four games last week, K-State totaled 60 runs and a dozen home runs. K-State plated 47 runs in its three-game sweep of Texas Southern, finishing a 12-game homestand with a 10-2 record.The weekly honor is the second in the career of Ceballos, as he was named Big 12 Newcomer of the Week on May 13, 2019. He joins&nbsp;Connor McCullough&nbsp;(April 26) and&nbsp;Jordan Wicks&nbsp;(February 22), who were each named Pitcher of the Week, as Wildcats to collect a weekly conference award this year.The Cats begin a six-game Big 12 road swing with a trip to Baylor Friday. The three-game series will be broadcast on Big 12 Now on ESPN+ and the ESPN app. Radio coverage is available on News Radio KMAN (93.3 FM, 1350 AM) with free audio streaming at K-StateSports.com/watch.

Ceballos Earns Big 12 Player of the Week

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Andrelton Simmons and Mitch Garver homered in a seven-run third inning, and rookie Alex Kirilloff went deep for the fourth time in three games as the Minnesota Twins routed the Kansas City Royals 13-4. 

José Berríos took advantage of Minnesota’s recent tear at the plate to win for the first time in four starts. Berríos gave up four runs and struck out nine in six innings. The Twins have won three of four and scored 35 runs during that stretch. Royals starter Brad Keller was undone by the long ball and his own defense. Keller gave up all seven runs in the third, but only two were earned after a pair of errors by third baseman Hunter Dozier.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Andrelton Simmons and Mitch Garver homered in a seven-run third inning, and rookie Alex Kirilloff went deep for the fourth time in three games as the Minnesota Twins routed the Kansas City Royals 13-4. José Berríos took advantage of Minnesota’s recent tear at the plate to win for the first time in four starts. Berríos gave up four runs and struck out nine in six innings. The Twins have won three of four and scored 35 runs during that stretch. Royals starter Brad Keller was undone by the long ball and his own defense. Keller gave up all seven runs in the third, but only two were earned after a pair of errors by third baseman Hunter Dozier.