KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Elly De La Cruz hit two long home runs, Brady Singer pitched seven strong innings against his former team and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Tuesday night.

De La Cruz hit a 436-foot shot to center in the fourth inning that tied the score at 2 against Jonathan Bowlan, then a go-ahead&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Reds/status/1927530977221304392">451-foot drive into the right-center fountain in the sixth</a>&nbsp;off Taylor Clarke (1-1). De La Cruz has 11 home runs this season. He tied Pete Rose's team record for switch-hitters with five multihomer games, including two this year.

Singer (6-3), acquired from the Royals in November, allowed two runs and seven singles.

Tyler Stephenson homered in the second, but Kyle Isbel and Jonathan India had RBI single in the botton half.

TJ Friedl singled to lead off the eighth inning and scored from first on an infield squibber. Pitcher John Schreiber's rushed throw bounced into right field for an error. De La Cruz was walked intentionally before Schreiber walked Stephenson and Spencer Steer.

Singer retired 14 of his last 16 batters and matched his season high for innings.

Reds RHP Hunter Greene (4-2, 2.54 ERA) and Royals LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.93 ERA) start Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748399334004.jpeg" alt="Photo Cincinnati Reds" />
 <figcaption>Photo Cincinnati Reds</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Elly De La Cruz hit two long home runs, Brady Singer pitched seven strong innings against his former team and the Cincinnati Reds beat the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Tuesday night.De La Cruz hit a 436-foot shot to center in the fourth inning that tied the score at 2 against Jonathan Bowlan, then a go-ahead&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Reds/status/1927530977221304392">451-foot drive into the right-center fountain in the sixth</a>&nbsp;off Taylor Clarke (1-1). De La Cruz has 11 home runs this season. He tied Pete Rose's team record for switch-hitters with five multihomer games, including two this year.Singer (6-3), acquired from the Royals in November, allowed two runs and seven singles.Tyler Stephenson homered in the second, but Kyle Isbel and Jonathan India had RBI single in the botton half.<h2>Key moment</h2>TJ Friedl singled to lead off the eighth inning and scored from first on an infield squibber. Pitcher John Schreiber's rushed throw bounced into right field for an error. De La Cruz was walked intentionally before Schreiber walked Stephenson and Spencer Steer.<h2>Key stat</h2>Singer retired 14 of his last 16 batters and matched his season high for innings.<h2>Up next</h2>Reds RHP Hunter Greene (4-2, 2.54 ERA) and Royals LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.93 ERA) start Wednesday.

⚾ Brady Singer sharp against former team, Reds top Royals 

Associate Athletics Director for Communication

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics is launching its Summer Ticket On-Sale, giving fans the opportunity to purchase or renew tickets across all six ticketed sports – football, men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, volleyball and baseball. The on-sale begins exclusively online at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 10.

<a target="_blank" href="https://app.kstatesports.com/K-StateTickets">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to preview the full ticket menu.&nbsp;

Ahearn Fund members will have an exclusive week-long online-only pre-sale for single-game tickets. The general public can begin purchasing tickets online only beginning at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 17.

Phone and in-person orders for football single-game tickets for both Ahearn Fund members and the general public will begin at 8:30 a.m., on Monday, June 23.

Fans are encouraged to act fast and purchase their tickets early. K-State Athletics utilizes dynamic pricing and single-game prices may change based on demand.

K-State Athletics can only verify tickets and assist fans with issues on gameday with tickets that are purchased from the K-State Ticket Office or through SeatGeek.

A limited number of football season tickets are still available for purchase online and over the phone at 1-800-221-CATS.

New season tickets for men’s and women’s basketball, soccer and volleyball will go on sale online only beginning at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 10. Phone and in-person orders will begin at 8:30 a.m., on Wednesday, June 11.

Fans who had season tickets for the 2024-25 seasons have until Thursday, July 31 to renew their tickets.

Fans who renew or order by the July 1 incentive deadline can receive a discount off the processing fee, the opportunity to sign up for monthly payment plans and an exclusive season-long concessions discount card.

New season ticket purchasers for men’s and women’s basketball will be able to select reserved seats in any location currently available. Fans should order by the Thursday, July 31 priority deadline to participate in the seat upgrade process in August.

An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium seating. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/premiumseating">www.ahearnfund.com/premiumseating</a>&nbsp;or contact the Ahearn Fund at (888) 232.9074.

Fans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with a Wildcat 4-Pack starting at less than $15 per game.

General admission season tickets start at $75 each for a Wildcat 4-Pack. Individual GA season tickets are available for $100 or just $75 for football and men’s Basketball season ticket holders.

General admission season tickets start at $40 with a Wildcat 4-Pack – less than $5 per match and a savings of $10 per season ticket. Individual GA season tickets are just $50.

Season ticket holders can take advantage of the Ticket Exchange Program, an opportunity to swap out unused tickets to bring more friends and family to a future match (while supplies last).

GA season tickets start at $75 with a Wildcat 4-Pack – less than $6 per match and a savings of $25 per season ticket. Individual GA season tickets are available for $100.

Season ticket holders can take advantage of the Ticket Exchange Program, an opportunity to swap out unused tickets to bring more friends and family to a future match (while supplies last). Season ticket holders also receive early entry.

Fans can place deposits for 2026 season tickets. Current season ticket holders should not place a 2026 season ticket deposit. Full season ticket details will be announced at a later date.

By Ryan LackeyAssociate Athletics Director for CommunicationMANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;K-State Athletics is launching its Summer Ticket On-Sale, giving fans the opportunity to purchase or renew tickets across all six ticketed sports – football, men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, volleyball and baseball. The on-sale begins exclusively online at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 10.<a target="_blank" href="https://app.kstatesports.com/K-StateTickets">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to preview the full ticket menu.&nbsp;FOOTBALL TICKETSAhearn Fund members will have an exclusive week-long online-only pre-sale for single-game tickets. The general public can begin purchasing tickets online only beginning at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 17.Phone and in-person orders for football single-game tickets for both Ahearn Fund members and the general public will begin at 8:30 a.m., on Monday, June 23.Fans are encouraged to act fast and purchase their tickets early. K-State Athletics utilizes dynamic pricing and single-game prices may change based on demand.K-State Athletics can only verify tickets and assist fans with issues on gameday with tickets that are purchased from the K-State Ticket Office or through SeatGeek.A limited number of football season tickets are still available for purchase online and over the phone at 1-800-221-CATS.SEASON TICKETSNew season tickets for men’s and women’s basketball, soccer and volleyball will go on sale online only beginning at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, June 10. Phone and in-person orders will begin at 8:30 a.m., on Wednesday, June 11.Fans who had season tickets for the 2024-25 seasons have until Thursday, July 31 to renew their tickets.Fans who renew or order by the July 1 incentive deadline can receive a discount off the processing fee, the opportunity to sign up for monthly payment plans and an exclusive season-long concessions discount card.New season ticket purchasers for men’s and women’s basketball will be able to select reserved seats in any location currently available. Fans should order by the Thursday, July 31 priority deadline to participate in the seat upgrade process in August.An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium seating. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/premiumseating">www.ahearnfund.com/premiumseating</a>&nbsp;or contact the Ahearn Fund at (888) 232.9074.MEN’S BASKETBALLFans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with a Wildcat 4-Pack starting at less than $15 per game.WOMEN’S BASKETBALLGeneral admission season tickets start at $75 each for a Wildcat 4-Pack. Individual GA season tickets are available for $100 or just $75 for football and men’s Basketball season ticket holders.SOCCER SEASON TICKETSGeneral admission season tickets start at $40 with a Wildcat 4-Pack – less than $5 per match and a savings of $10 per season ticket. Individual GA season tickets are just $50.Season ticket holders can take advantage of the Ticket Exchange Program, an opportunity to swap out unused tickets to bring more friends and family to a future match (while supplies last).VOLLEYBALL SEASON TICKETSGA season tickets start at $75 with a Wildcat 4-Pack – less than $6 per match and a savings of $25 per season ticket. Individual GA season tickets are available for $100.Season ticket holders can take advantage of the Ticket Exchange Program, an opportunity to swap out unused tickets to bring more friends and family to a future match (while supplies last). Season ticket holders also receive early entry.BASEBALL DEPOSITSFans can place deposits for 2026 season tickets. Current season ticket holders should not place a 2026 season ticket deposit. Full season ticket details will be announced at a later date.

 K-State Athletics Launches Summer Ticket On-Sale Beginning June 10

Scot Pollard was standing in Gasoline Alley at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and trying not to cry.

The NBA champion and “Survivor” contestant was talking about meeting the family of Casey Angell, whose heart was now beating inside Pollard's chest. Angell's sister brought a stethoscope.

“She touched my chest. She listened and she started crying. She said, ‘Hey, Bubba,’ because that’s what she used to call him,” Pollard said. “And we all lost it. And I’m losing it right now.”

A first-round draft pick who took Kansas to the NCAA Sweet 16 four years in a row and won it all with the 2008 Boston Celtics, Pollard was virtually bedridden by 2024, unable to walk around the block or even conduct an interview without needing a rest because of a virus that had weakened his heart.

Since receiving the life-saving transplant last winter, he has dedicated himself to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heart-transplant-scot-pollard-discharged-3b2b1b8136f1617b9ad07ecfbc3a584b">raising awareness of organ donation</a>, a mission that earned him the honor of serving as the Grand Marshal for the Indy 500 Festival Parade on Saturday. Angell's family rode along on the float with him.

“Any time we get to see them and be around them is a great moment,” Pollard said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. “But also just to be able to share this experience of being grand marshal with them, and be part of their lives.”

At 6-foot-11 and a playing weight of 260 pounds, Pollard inherited his size from his father along with a genetic heart condition that doctors say was triggered by a virus that left him no other choice but a transplant. The problem would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-nba-survivor-heart-transplant-d8b34f86b1a6f027ef8210c3a6ab0268">finding a donor</a>&nbsp;organ big enough to pump blood throughout his NBA center-sized body.

Six hundred miles away, in East Texas, Angell was on life support with pneumonia brought on by a respiratory illness.

“We made the decision that we were letting go, and they came to us within about 30 minutes and asked about donation,” said Megan Tyra, who works as an administrator at the hospital where her brother died. “We saw the heart leave, going out the door, and all we were told was that it was headed to Tennessee.”

To protect everyone’s privacy, organ recipients can only learn about their donors – and vice versa – through a system that requires both sides to agree. Pollard was told that most people don't hear back, but he wrote a note anyway. Angell’s family responded.

(In addition to his heart, Casey Angell’s corneas and his kidneys were donated. The family was told the other recipients were two 17-year-olds and a 48- and a 49-year-old; they have not heard from any of the other recipients.)

“Casey was a nosy dude. He always wanted to be in the know,” Tyra said with a laugh. “And so when we got that first letter from Scot, … we were grateful that Scot wanted to know about Casey. Him and (his wife) Dawn have been so sweet and kind, (saying) ‘You’re part of our family now.’”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-nba-survivor-heart-donor-132717c3a1ccab4033cb35480e008935">They set up a meeting</a>&nbsp;in Texas this March. Tyra was there with her husband, Clint; Angell’s wife, Pam; and her son William, who is now 13. Pollard brought his family — and cameras to record the event for a TV documentary.

“To say the least, it was a tad bit overwhelming,” Tyra said in a telephone interview this week from Indianapolis. “We never did this for anything other than who Casey was, a helper, a guy who would help anyone do anything. So it’s a little bit surreal, a little bit overwhelming. But (Scot) and Dawn make it easy.”

Pollard, who turned 50 in February a few days after celebrating his one-year anniversary with the new heart, said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-heart-transplant-donor-1de85b7ca3321de6f3a813d41846502b">since receiving the transplant</a>&nbsp;he has suffered from survivor's guilt — the doubt that he was worthy of such a gift: “It’s a challenge, because I’ve got to live right. There’s a face, and I know what he looks like and I know who he was, and the family. And so there's that pressure.”

Angell’s family, he said, helped save him twice.

“There were a lot of days I was crying like, ‘I don’t know if I deserve this,’” Pollard said. “And then when they responded, and I got to know them, and I learned a lot more about Casey, it definitely helped. He has helped a whole lot with the healing. Not just emotionally, obviously.”

Pollard is hoping the documentary and the other media attention he brings as a former pro athlete will persuade people to consider organ donation. Last month, he spoke at the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation and received a standing ovation from a convention center full of doctors, including his own; that night, he attended a Celtics playoff game and got another big cheer when he received a shoutout on the scoreboard.

Pollard, who spent two of his 11 NBA seasons with the Indiana Pacers and settled near Indianapolis, was booked for a breakfast with the governor as part of the Indy 500 festivities this weekend along with some other meet-and-greets. He will watch the race — known as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing — on Sunday in a suite with Angell's family.

“We're excited about the fact that we’re honoring Casey, and who Casey was. So it’s all about Casey, and the sacrifice Casey made,” Tyra said. “We’re grateful that Scot wanted us to meet, and wants us to be a part of this and that he’s doing so much for organ donation. It’s amazing.

“You know, we never thought our little smalltown selves would be here for the Indy 500," she said. “But here we are.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748347868154.jpeg" alt="Former Boston Celtics center Scot Pollard, who underwent a heart transplant in 2024, watches the Celtics play the Orlando Magic during the first half in game 5 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)" />
 <figcaption>Former Boston Celtics center Scot Pollard, who underwent a heart transplant in 2024, watches the Celtics play the Orlando Magic during the first half in game 5 of a first-round NBA playoff basketball series, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)</figcaption>
 </figure>JIMMY GOLEN AP Sports WriterScot Pollard was standing in Gasoline Alley at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and trying not to cry.The NBA champion and “Survivor” contestant was talking about meeting the family of Casey Angell, whose heart was now beating inside Pollard's chest. Angell's sister brought a stethoscope.“She touched my chest. She listened and she started crying. She said, ‘Hey, Bubba,’ because that’s what she used to call him,” Pollard said. “And we all lost it. And I’m losing it right now.”A first-round draft pick who took Kansas to the NCAA Sweet 16 four years in a row and won it all with the 2008 Boston Celtics, Pollard was virtually bedridden by 2024, unable to walk around the block or even conduct an interview without needing a rest because of a virus that had weakened his heart.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748347923641.jpeg" alt="FILE - Kansas center Scot Pollard slam dunks against Santa Clara during the first half of their second round NCAA West Regional game Sunday, March 17, 1996, in Tempe, Ariz. Behind Pollard are Santa Clara's Brendan Graves (42) and Marlon garnett (24). (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Kansas center Scot Pollard slam dunks against Santa Clara during the first half of their second round NCAA West Regional game Sunday, March 17, 1996, in Tempe, Ariz. Behind Pollard are Santa Clara's Brendan Graves (42) and Marlon garnett (24). (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>Since receiving the life-saving transplant last winter, he has dedicated himself to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heart-transplant-scot-pollard-discharged-3b2b1b8136f1617b9ad07ecfbc3a584b">raising awareness of organ donation</a>, a mission that earned him the honor of serving as the Grand Marshal for the Indy 500 Festival Parade on Saturday. Angell's family rode along on the float with him.“Any time we get to see them and be around them is a great moment,” Pollard said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. “But also just to be able to share this experience of being grand marshal with them, and be part of their lives.”At 6-foot-11 and a playing weight of 260 pounds, Pollard inherited his size from his father along with a genetic heart condition that doctors say was triggered by a virus that left him no other choice but a transplant. The problem would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-nba-survivor-heart-transplant-d8b34f86b1a6f027ef8210c3a6ab0268">finding a donor</a>&nbsp;organ big enough to pump blood throughout his NBA center-sized body.Six hundred miles away, in East Texas, Angell was on life support with pneumonia brought on by a respiratory illness.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748347976728.jpeg" alt="FILE - Boston Celtics center Scot Pollard smiles while facing reporters during a news conference held to introduce the newly signed player at the team's headquarters, in Boston, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Boston Celtics center Scot Pollard smiles while facing reporters during a news conference held to introduce the newly signed player at the team's headquarters, in Boston, Thursday, Aug. 9, 2007. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>“We made the decision that we were letting go, and they came to us within about 30 minutes and asked about donation,” said Megan Tyra, who works as an administrator at the hospital where her brother died. “We saw the heart leave, going out the door, and all we were told was that it was headed to Tennessee.”To protect everyone’s privacy, organ recipients can only learn about their donors – and vice versa – through a system that requires both sides to agree. Pollard was told that most people don't hear back, but he wrote a note anyway. Angell’s family responded.(In addition to his heart, Casey Angell’s corneas and his kidneys were donated. The family was told the other recipients were two 17-year-olds and a 48- and a 49-year-old; they have not heard from any of the other recipients.)“Casey was a nosy dude. He always wanted to be in the know,” Tyra said with a laugh. “And so when we got that first letter from Scot, … we were grateful that Scot wanted to know about Casey. Him and (his wife) Dawn have been so sweet and kind, (saying) ‘You’re part of our family now.’”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-nba-survivor-heart-donor-132717c3a1ccab4033cb35480e008935">They set up a meeting</a>&nbsp;in Texas this March. Tyra was there with her husband, Clint; Angell’s wife, Pam; and her son William, who is now 13. Pollard brought his family — and cameras to record the event for a TV documentary.“To say the least, it was a tad bit overwhelming,” Tyra said in a telephone interview this week from Indianapolis. “We never did this for anything other than who Casey was, a helper, a guy who would help anyone do anything. So it’s a little bit surreal, a little bit overwhelming. But (Scot) and Dawn make it easy.”Pollard, who turned 50 in February a few days after celebrating his one-year anniversary with the new heart, said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scot-pollard-heart-transplant-donor-1de85b7ca3321de6f3a813d41846502b">since receiving the transplant</a>&nbsp;he has suffered from survivor's guilt — the doubt that he was worthy of such a gift: “It’s a challenge, because I’ve got to live right. There’s a face, and I know what he looks like and I know who he was, and the family. And so there's that pressure.”Angell’s family, he said, helped save him twice.“There were a lot of days I was crying like, ‘I don’t know if I deserve this,’” Pollard said. “And then when they responded, and I got to know them, and I learned a lot more about Casey, it definitely helped. He has helped a whole lot with the healing. Not just emotionally, obviously.”Pollard is hoping the documentary and the other media attention he brings as a former pro athlete will persuade people to consider organ donation. Last month, he spoke at the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation and received a standing ovation from a convention center full of doctors, including his own; that night, he attended a Celtics playoff game and got another big cheer when he received a shoutout on the scoreboard.Pollard, who spent two of his 11 NBA seasons with the Indiana Pacers and settled near Indianapolis, was booked for a breakfast with the governor as part of the Indy 500 festivities this weekend along with some other meet-and-greets. He will watch the race — known as the Greatest Spectacle in Racing — on Sunday in a suite with Angell's family.“We're excited about the fact that we’re honoring Casey, and who Casey was. So it’s all about Casey, and the sacrifice Casey made,” Tyra said. “We’re grateful that Scot wanted us to meet, and wants us to be a part of this and that he’s doing so much for organ donation. It’s amazing.“You know, we never thought our little smalltown selves would be here for the Indy 500," she said. “But here we are.”

🏀 NBA champ, former KU bigman Scot Pollard shares Indy 500 parade float with heart donor's family

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Martinez worked seven strong innings and Tyler Stephenson homered to lead the Cincinnati Reds to a 7-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Monday.

Martinez (3-5) allowed three singles through six shutout innings and finished seven innings allowing three runs on six hits with two strikeouts and no walks.

Stephenson hit a two-run homer to left in the fifth inning, his second of the season, boosting the Reds' lead to 6-0. Stephenson had three of Cincinnati’s 14 hits.

Michael Lorenzen (3-6) allowed six runs on a career-high 11 hits with three walks and two strikeouts in five innings as the Royals lost for the third time in four games.

Cincinnati jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on TJ Friedl’s leadoff double and Austin Hays’ sacrifice fly. The Reds lead the majors with 46 first-inning runs and have outscored opponents 46-21 in the first.

Gavin Lux and Stephenson drove in runs with two of the Reds five singles in the third inning before Will Benson added a sacrifice fly for a 4-0 lead.

Salvador Perez hit a first-pitch, two-run homer in the seventh, snapping Martinez’s homerless streak at 42 2/3 innings. Nick Loftin added a sacrifice fly, cutting Kansas City's deficit to 6-3.

Vinnie Pasquantino had three hits and extended his hitting streak to 10 games, including four straight with multiple hits. Maikel Garcia extended his hitting streak to 11 games.

After playing shortstop for all but three innings this season, Elly De La Cruz was the designated hitter, with Garrett Hampson making his first start at short.

Making his major league debut, John Rave bunted for a hit, putting runners at the corners with no outs in the seventh. Cleveland challenged the safe call at first, which was overturned and Martinez retired the next two batters, escaping the inning.

Martinez needed just 67 pitches to shut out the Royals for six innings.

Former Royals RHP Brady Singer (5-3, 4.88) takes the mound for Cincinnati, while Kansas City did not announce a starter for Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748341140429.jpeg" alt="Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Nick Martinez throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Monday, May 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Nick Martinez throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Monday, May 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nick Martinez worked seven strong innings and Tyler Stephenson homered to lead the Cincinnati Reds to a 7-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Monday.Martinez (3-5) allowed three singles through six shutout innings and finished seven innings allowing three runs on six hits with two strikeouts and no walks.Stephenson hit a two-run homer to left in the fifth inning, his second of the season, boosting the Reds' lead to 6-0. Stephenson had three of Cincinnati’s 14 hits.Michael Lorenzen (3-6) allowed six runs on a career-high 11 hits with three walks and two strikeouts in five innings as the Royals lost for the third time in four games.Cincinnati jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on TJ Friedl’s leadoff double and Austin Hays’ sacrifice fly. The Reds lead the majors with 46 first-inning runs and have outscored opponents 46-21 in the first.Gavin Lux and Stephenson drove in runs with two of the Reds five singles in the third inning before Will Benson added a sacrifice fly for a 4-0 lead.Salvador Perez hit a first-pitch, two-run homer in the seventh, snapping Martinez’s homerless streak at 42 2/3 innings. Nick Loftin added a sacrifice fly, cutting Kansas City's deficit to 6-3.Vinnie Pasquantino had three hits and extended his hitting streak to 10 games, including four straight with multiple hits. Maikel Garcia extended his hitting streak to 11 games.After playing shortstop for all but three innings this season, Elly De La Cruz was the designated hitter, with Garrett Hampson making his first start at short.<h2>Key moment</h2>Making his major league debut, John Rave bunted for a hit, putting runners at the corners with no outs in the seventh. Cleveland challenged the safe call at first, which was overturned and Martinez retired the next two batters, escaping the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>Martinez needed just 67 pitches to shut out the Royals for six innings.<h2>Up next</h2>Former Royals RHP Brady Singer (5-3, 4.88) takes the mound for Cincinnati, while Kansas City did not announce a starter for Tuesday.

⚾ Martinez, Stephenson help Reds to  win over the Royals

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-out RBI single in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals avoided a series sweep by topping the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Sunday.

Garcia drove a 0-2 pitch from Jhoan Duran (3-1) into left field, scoring automatic runner Nick Loftin. Michael Massey struck out swinging and Freddy Femin bounced to third before Garcia delivered.

Carlos Estévez (2-0) retired each of his four batters — two by strikeouts — to get the win. Taylor Clarke worked the 10th for his first save this season.

Kris Bubic struck out nine in seven sparkling innings for Kansas City. He allowed two hits and walked two, continuing his breakout season.

Ryan Jeffers hit a leadoff double for Minnesota in the first, and Ty France followed with an RBI single.

The 27-year-old Bubic is 3-1 with a 1.22 ERA in his last seven starts. Bubic’s 1.45 ERA in 11 starts this season is second among qualified pitchers behind the Yankees’ Max Fried at 1.29.

Minnesota right-hander Bailey Ober permitted one run and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings.

Fermin drove in Drew Waters with a two-out double in the seventh.

The Twins lost for just the third time in their last 19 games.

Fermin's tying double in the seventh came on a 0-2 pitch from Ober.

The Twins entered Sunday with walk-off wins in three straight and four of their last five home games.

Royals right-hander Michael Lorenzen (3-5, 3.77 ERA) starts on Monday against visiting Cincinnati. Right-hander Nick Martinez (2-5, 3.43 ERA) takes the mound for the Reds.

Twins right-hander Chris Paddack (2-4, 3.98 ERA) pitches on Monday at Tampa Bay in the opener of a 10-game trip.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748207510147.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Maikel Garcia hit a two-out RBI single in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals avoided a series sweep by topping the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Sunday.Garcia drove a 0-2 pitch from Jhoan Duran (3-1) into left field, scoring automatic runner Nick Loftin. Michael Massey struck out swinging and Freddy Femin bounced to third before Garcia delivered.Carlos Estévez (2-0) retired each of his four batters — two by strikeouts — to get the win. Taylor Clarke worked the 10th for his first save this season.Kris Bubic struck out nine in seven sparkling innings for Kansas City. He allowed two hits and walked two, continuing his breakout season.Ryan Jeffers hit a leadoff double for Minnesota in the first, and Ty France followed with an RBI single.The 27-year-old Bubic is 3-1 with a 1.22 ERA in his last seven starts. Bubic’s 1.45 ERA in 11 starts this season is second among qualified pitchers behind the Yankees’ Max Fried at 1.29.Minnesota right-hander Bailey Ober permitted one run and seven hits in 6 2/3 innings.Fermin drove in Drew Waters with a two-out double in the seventh.The Twins lost for just the third time in their last 19 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Fermin's tying double in the seventh came on a 0-2 pitch from Ober.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Twins entered Sunday with walk-off wins in three straight and four of their last five home games.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals right-hander Michael Lorenzen (3-5, 3.77 ERA) starts on Monday against visiting Cincinnati. Right-hander Nick Martinez (2-5, 3.43 ERA) takes the mound for the Reds.Twins right-hander Chris Paddack (2-4, 3.98 ERA) pitches on Monday at Tampa Bay in the opener of a 10-game trip.

⚾Garcia's RBI single in 10th helps Royals avoid sweep with victory over Twins

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Brooks Lee hit an RBI single with two outs in the ninth inning to give the Minnesota Twins their second straight walk off against the Kansas City Royals, this time overcoming a four-run deficit for a 5-4 win on Saturday.

Harrison Bader and Kody Clemens homered for Minnesota, which won for the 16th time in 18 games.

Pinch-hitter Carlos Correa walked against Daniel Lynch IV (3-1) to open the Minnesota ninth and advanced to second two batters later when pinch-hitter Ryan Jeffers also walked. With Steven Cruz pitching, Lee grounded a ball up the middle for his first career walk-off hit.

Ty France hit a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-royals-score-56d857e4ea28dd4cec2724a89785a02f">two-run home run</a>&nbsp;in the ninth in the Twins 3-1 win on Friday.

Minnesota closer Jhoan Duran (3-0) pitched a scoreless ninth for the win.

Vinnie Pasquantino had three hits for Kansas City, which struck out a season-high 18 times. Bobby Witt Jr. tied a career high with four of those.

Pasquantino had an RBI double and Salvador Perez an RBI single in the fifth for a 4-0 Kansas City lead, but Bader homered and France had a two-out, two-run single in the inning to get the Twins within 4-3.

Clemens tied the game with a home run leading off the sixth against Royals’ starter Michael Wacha, who allowed seven hits and four earned runs in five-plus innings.

With the bases loaded and two outs in the top of the ninth, Kansas City’s Drew Waters bounced back to Duran to end the threat.

In his second start since being recalled from Triple-A last Sunday, Minnesota’s Zebby Matthews needed 81 pitches to get through four innings. The right-hander allowed two earned runs on five hits but struck out a career-high nine.

Royals LHP Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.47) will face Twins RHP Bailey Ober (4-1, 3.68) on Sunday.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Brooks Lee hit an RBI single with two outs in the ninth inning to give the Minnesota Twins their second straight walk off against the Kansas City Royals, this time overcoming a four-run deficit for a 5-4 win on Saturday.Harrison Bader and Kody Clemens homered for Minnesota, which won for the 16th time in 18 games.Pinch-hitter Carlos Correa walked against Daniel Lynch IV (3-1) to open the Minnesota ninth and advanced to second two batters later when pinch-hitter Ryan Jeffers also walked. With Steven Cruz pitching, Lee grounded a ball up the middle for his first career walk-off hit.Ty France hit a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-royals-score-56d857e4ea28dd4cec2724a89785a02f">two-run home run</a>&nbsp;in the ninth in the Twins 3-1 win on Friday.Minnesota closer Jhoan Duran (3-0) pitched a scoreless ninth for the win.Vinnie Pasquantino had three hits for Kansas City, which struck out a season-high 18 times. Bobby Witt Jr. tied a career high with four of those.Pasquantino had an RBI double and Salvador Perez an RBI single in the fifth for a 4-0 Kansas City lead, but Bader homered and France had a two-out, two-run single in the inning to get the Twins within 4-3.Clemens tied the game with a home run leading off the sixth against Royals’ starter Michael Wacha, who allowed seven hits and four earned runs in five-plus innings.<h2>Key moment</h2>With the bases loaded and two outs in the top of the ninth, Kansas City’s Drew Waters bounced back to Duran to end the threat.<h2>Key stat</h2>In his second start since being recalled from Triple-A last Sunday, Minnesota’s Zebby Matthews needed 81 pitches to get through four innings. The right-hander allowed two earned runs on five hits but struck out a career-high nine.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals LHP Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.47) will face Twins RHP Bailey Ober (4-1, 3.68) on Sunday.

⚾Lee's single gives Twins second straight walk-off win over Royals

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Ty France hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Friday night for their 15th win in 17 games.

With the score 1-1. Carlos Correa reached on an infield single off Lucas Erceg (1-1) and France hit a first-pitch slider feet into the bullpen in left-center for his fourth homer this season.

Correa, who passed concussion protocol and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-correa-concussion-reinstated-b6931986befecf5f3960439da899d53c">was activated from the 7-day injured list</a>, hit a 429-foot homer in the second against Noah Cameron. Fans at the game received Carlos Correa Jedi bobbleheads.

Cole Sands (3-1) pitched a perfect ninth.

Vinnie Pasquantino had two hits for the Royals, while Cavan Biggio had a double and drove in a run.

Cameron, a 25-year-old left-hander making his third major league start, allowed one run and four hits in 6 2/3 innings while striking out eight and walking one. He has a 0.93 ERA in 19 2/3 innings.

Pablo López gave up one run and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Biggio's first-inning double scored Jonathan India.

With the score 1-1 and two on in the third, López struck out Biggio and retired Drew Waters on a flyout.

Kansas City was 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position, all against López.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748096470123.jpeg" alt="Minnesota Twins' Ty France (13) hits a walkoff two-run home run during ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, May 23, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)" />
 <figcaption>Minnesota Twins' Ty France (13) hits a walkoff two-run home run during ninth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, May 23, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Ty France hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Minnesota Twins beat the Kansas City Royals 3-1 on Friday night for their 15th win in 17 games.With the score 1-1. Carlos Correa reached on an infield single off Lucas Erceg (1-1) and France hit a first-pitch slider feet into the bullpen in left-center for his fourth homer this season.Correa, who passed concussion protocol and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/twins-correa-concussion-reinstated-b6931986befecf5f3960439da899d53c">was activated from the 7-day injured list</a>, hit a 429-foot homer in the second against Noah Cameron. Fans at the game received Carlos Correa Jedi bobbleheads.Cole Sands (3-1) pitched a perfect ninth.Vinnie Pasquantino had two hits for the Royals, while Cavan Biggio had a double and drove in a run.Cameron, a 25-year-old left-hander making his third major league start, allowed one run and four hits in 6 2/3 innings while striking out eight and walking one. He has a 0.93 ERA in 19 2/3 innings.Pablo López gave up one run and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings.Biggio's first-inning double scored Jonathan India.<h2>Key moment</h2>With the score 1-1 and two on in the third, López struck out Biggio and retired Drew Waters on a flyout.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City was 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position, all against López.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ France's 2-run homer in 9th lifts Twins over Royals

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — North Florida coach Matthew Driscoll resigned after 16 years with the Ospreys on Thursday and accepted a job as the associate head coach on Jerome Tang's staff at Kansas State.

The 60-year-old Driscoll and Tang have known each other for more than two decades, spending six seasons together on Scott Drew's staff at Baylor. Driscoll left to become head coach at North Florida in 2009, and led the Ospreys to three Atlantic Sun regular-season titles, the NCAA Tournament in 2015 and the NIT the following year.

North Florida finished 15-17 last season.

“Coach Driscoll is a proven program builder and an exceptional teacher of the game,” Tang said in a statement released by Kansas State. “His ability to develop players and implement high-level offensive systems is second to none.”

Driscoll also has been the head coach at the high school level and at La Roche, a Division III school in Pennsylvania, along with an assistant at Slippery Rock, Wyoming, Clemson and Valparaiso.

“I know some will wonder why I would leave being a head coach to become an assistant coach, but this was a no-brainer in every aspect for us,” Driscoll said. “We all know that work brings profit and if you have studied Coach Tang and his program, that’s what they do. My responsibility will be to continue to nurture, encourage and expound upon this foundation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747945128776.jpeg" alt="FILE - North Florida head coach Matthew Driscoll watches from the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Iowa, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - North Florida head coach Matthew Driscoll watches from the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Iowa, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — North Florida coach Matthew Driscoll resigned after 16 years with the Ospreys on Thursday and accepted a job as the associate head coach on Jerome Tang's staff at Kansas State.The 60-year-old Driscoll and Tang have known each other for more than two decades, spending six seasons together on Scott Drew's staff at Baylor. Driscoll left to become head coach at North Florida in 2009, and led the Ospreys to three Atlantic Sun regular-season titles, the NCAA Tournament in 2015 and the NIT the following year.North Florida finished 15-17 last season.“Coach Driscoll is a proven program builder and an exceptional teacher of the game,” Tang said in a statement released by Kansas State. “His ability to develop players and implement high-level offensive systems is second to none.”Driscoll also has been the head coach at the high school level and at La Roche, a Division III school in Pennsylvania, along with an assistant at Slippery Rock, Wyoming, Clemson and Valparaiso.“I know some will wonder why I would leave being a head coach to become an assistant coach, but this was a no-brainer in every aspect for us,” Driscoll said. “We all know that work brings profit and if you have studied Coach Tang and his program, that’s what they do. My responsibility will be to continue to nurture, encourage and expound upon this foundation.”

🏀 Tang adds Driscoll to K-State staff as associate head coach

6A West Regional #3 - Baseball in Manhattan - #6 Wichita Northwest 12, #11 Junction City 3

Junction City’s Cael Smith singled to start the game at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan. The Grizzlies from Wichita Northwest then turned a double-play, followed by a strikeout to end the top of the first. The Grizzlies quickly went to work and scored runs in each of the first three innings: One run in the first, five in the second, and two in the third. After three innings, Northwest led 8-0.

The Blue Jays scored their first run in the fifth inning and two more in the sixth. The Grizzlies responded with four more runs in the bottom of the sixth inning and took a 12-3 lead into the seventh. The Blue Jays were then retired in order to end the game.

The Blue Jays scored three runs on seven hits. Northwest scored 12 runs on 14 hits.

Junction City ends the season with a record of 10-17

6A West Regional #1 – Softball in Garden City - #1 Garden City 12, #16 Junction City 2

The Junction City Lady Jays went down in order to begin the game, and the Garden City Buffaloes wasted no time getting on the board. A two-run home run started the scoring for Garden City, and then they continued the scoring with three runs in the second and four in the third. After three innings, the Buffaloes led 9-0.

Junction City scored their only two runs on the day on a double by Hannah Benoit, scoring Cassidy Miller and Morgan Nabus. Garden City then added three more in the fourth and held JC scoreless in the fifth to win 12-2 in a five-inning run rule.

Junction City scored two runs on one hit. Garden City scored 12 runs on seven hits.

The Lady Jays finish their season with a record of 2-23.

By Anthony GorgesJC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747928935057.jpeg" alt="The Blue Jay baseball team played their regional semifinal game against Wichita Northwest at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The Blue Jay baseball team played their regional semifinal game against Wichita Northwest at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>6A West Regional #3 - Baseball in Manhattan - #6 Wichita Northwest 12, #11 Junction City 3Junction City’s Cael Smith singled to start the game at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan. The Grizzlies from Wichita Northwest then turned a double-play, followed by a strikeout to end the top of the first. The Grizzlies quickly went to work and scored runs in each of the first three innings: One run in the first, five in the second, and two in the third. After three innings, Northwest led 8-0.The Blue Jays scored their first run in the fifth inning and two more in the sixth. The Grizzlies responded with four more runs in the bottom of the sixth inning and took a 12-3 lead into the seventh. The Blue Jays were then retired in order to end the game.The Blue Jays scored three runs on seven hits. Northwest scored 12 runs on 14 hits.Junction City ends the season with a record of 10-176A West Regional #1 – Softball in Garden City - #1 Garden City 12, #16 Junction City 2The Junction City Lady Jays went down in order to begin the game, and the Garden City Buffaloes wasted no time getting on the board. A two-run home run started the scoring for Garden City, and then they continued the scoring with three runs in the second and four in the third. After three innings, the Buffaloes led 9-0.Junction City scored their only two runs on the day on a double by Hannah Benoit, scoring Cassidy Miller and Morgan Nabus. Garden City then added three more in the fourth and held JC scoreless in the fifth to win 12-2 in a five-inning run rule.Junction City scored two runs on one hit. Garden City scored 12 runs on seven hits.The Lady Jays finish their season with a record of 2-23.

JCHS Baseball and Softball eliminated in Regional semifinals

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits including a two-run homer, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each had two hits and two RBIs, and the Kansas City Royals got their offense going in a 8-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday.

The Royals had scored three runs or fewer in their previous seven games and were held to four runs or fewer in 42 of their first 50 games.

Kansas City led 3-1 in the top of the fourth when Perez hit an opposite field homer off Giants starter Logan Webb (5-4) with Witt aboard.

The Royals extended the lead to 8-2 in the fifth, when Drew Waters hit a leadoff double during a two-run inning.

Matt Chapman, Patrick Bailey and Heliot Ramos homered for San Francisco.

Ramos hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Lucas Erceg to cut the lead to 8-4.

Jonathan Bowlan (1-0) gave up one run on two hits in 1 1/3 innings in relief of opener Daniel Lynch IV, who walked three and gave up a hit in 1 2/3 innings.

Webb (5-4) gave up six runs (three earned) on 10 hits in four innings. The Giants’ ace struck out five and walked none.

Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel made a sliding catch on a low line drive off Wilmer Flores’ bat with the bases loaded and two outs in the fourth inning of a 6-2 game.

The Royals improved to a major league-best 17-1 when scoring four runs or more.

Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.71 ERA) will pitch Friday’s series opener against the Twins in Minnesota. The Giants have not yet announced a starter for Friday’s series opener against the Nationals in Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747909915500.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits including a two-run homer, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each had two hits and two RBIs, and the Kansas City Royals got their offense going in a 8-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday.The Royals had scored three runs or fewer in their previous seven games and were held to four runs or fewer in 42 of their first 50 games.Kansas City led 3-1 in the top of the fourth when Perez hit an opposite field homer off Giants starter Logan Webb (5-4) with Witt aboard.The Royals extended the lead to 8-2 in the fifth, when Drew Waters hit a leadoff double during a two-run inning.Matt Chapman, Patrick Bailey and Heliot Ramos homered for San Francisco.Ramos hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Lucas Erceg to cut the lead to 8-4.Jonathan Bowlan (1-0) gave up one run on two hits in 1 1/3 innings in relief of opener Daniel Lynch IV, who walked three and gave up a hit in 1 2/3 innings.Webb (5-4) gave up six runs (three earned) on 10 hits in four innings. The Giants’ ace struck out five and walked none.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel made a sliding catch on a low line drive off Wilmer Flores’ bat with the bases loaded and two outs in the fourth inning of a 6-2 game.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals improved to a major league-best 17-1 when scoring four runs or more.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.71 ERA) will pitch Friday’s series opener against the Twins in Minnesota. The Giants have not yet announced a starter for Friday’s series opener against the Nationals in Washington.

⚾️ Perez powers Royals with 3 hits, including a homer, in win over Giants

The Chapman Lady Irish held off Andale/Garden Plain in the Sub-state championship game on Tuesday night in Chapman and are headed to the 4A State Tournament in Salina next week. It will be their first appearance in the state tournament since 2016.

4A Regional #2 Semifinal: #2 Chapman 6, #15 Concordia 2

Chapman scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first inning to jump ahead 1-0 over Concordia. The Lady Panthers responded in the top of the second with two runs and led 2-1 over the Irish. The game then became a pitcher’s duel with Madalynn Harold in the circle for Chapman and Jaylin Roush in the circle for Concordia.

The Lady Irish left the bases loaded to end the fourth, and Concordia still led by one run. In the bottom of the fifth, Chapman delivered. The Lady Irish scored five runs and took a 6-2 lead. Chapman held on to win and advanced to play Andale/Garden Plain in the 4A West #2 Regional championship.

4A Regional #2 Championship: #2 Chapman 5, #10 Andale/Garden Plain 3

Similar to the semifinal game, the Lady Irish started the scoring with one run in the bottom of the first. After one inning, Chapman led 1-0. Pitchers for both teams settled in, with Madalynn Harold back in the circle for Chapman and Jayna Lies in the circle for Andale/Garden Plain.

Chapman added two runs in the third, to lead 3-0 after three. In the fourth, Andale/Garden Plain left the bases loaded, as Harold struck out Elsie Johnson to end the inning. The Lady Irish scored two runs in the fifth to lead 5-0.

Andale/Garden Plain was not done yet, as a couple of pinch hitters came up clutch for the Indians in the top of the sixth. Quickly, it was a two-run game with Chapman leading 5-3. The Indians left runners stranded at second and third to end the inning.

In the seventh inning, Madalynn Harold shut the Indians down in order, and Chapman held on to win 5-3.

Chapman scored five runs on nine hits. In the circle, Harold pitched all seven innings and recorded 12 strikeouts in the sub-state championship game.

On the day, Harold pitched 13 of the 14 innings and recorded a total of 23 strikeouts.

Chapman advances to the 4A State Tournament next week in Salina. It is the Irish first trip to the State Tournament since 2016 when they placed third.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747840601987.jpeg" alt="The Lady Irish celebrate after holding off Andale/Garden Plain in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Chapman High School." />
 <figcaption>The Lady Irish celebrate after holding off Andale/Garden Plain in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Chapman High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesThe Chapman Lady Irish held off Andale/Garden Plain in the Sub-state championship game on Tuesday night in Chapman and are headed to the 4A State Tournament in Salina next week. It will be their first appearance in the state tournament since 2016.4A Regional #2 Semifinal: #2 Chapman 6, #15 Concordia 2Chapman scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first inning to jump ahead 1-0 over Concordia. The Lady Panthers responded in the top of the second with two runs and led 2-1 over the Irish. The game then became a pitcher’s duel with Madalynn Harold in the circle for Chapman and Jaylin Roush in the circle for Concordia.The Lady Irish left the bases loaded to end the fourth, and Concordia still led by one run. In the bottom of the fifth, Chapman delivered. The Lady Irish scored five runs and took a 6-2 lead. Chapman held on to win and advanced to play Andale/Garden Plain in the 4A West #2 Regional championship.4A Regional #2 Championship: #2 Chapman 5, #10 Andale/Garden Plain 3Similar to the semifinal game, the Lady Irish started the scoring with one run in the bottom of the first. After one inning, Chapman led 1-0. Pitchers for both teams settled in, with Madalynn Harold back in the circle for Chapman and Jayna Lies in the circle for Andale/Garden Plain.Chapman added two runs in the third, to lead 3-0 after three. In the fourth, Andale/Garden Plain left the bases loaded, as Harold struck out Elsie Johnson to end the inning. The Lady Irish scored two runs in the fifth to lead 5-0.Andale/Garden Plain was not done yet, as a couple of pinch hitters came up clutch for the Indians in the top of the sixth. Quickly, it was a two-run game with Chapman leading 5-3. The Indians left runners stranded at second and third to end the inning.In the seventh inning, Madalynn Harold shut the Indians down in order, and Chapman held on to win 5-3.Chapman scored five runs on nine hits. In the circle, Harold pitched all seven innings and recorded 12 strikeouts in the sub-state championship game.On the day, Harold pitched 13 of the 14 innings and recorded a total of 23 strikeouts.Chapman advances to the 4A State Tournament next week in Salina. It is the Irish first trip to the State Tournament since 2016 when they placed third.

Chapman Softball advances to the 4A State Tournament

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hayden Birdsong threw five sharp innings in his first start of the season and the San Francisco Giants beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Birdsong (2-0) was moved from the bullpen to the rotation in place of Jordan Hicks and provided just what manager Bob Melvin hoped he would deliver when he made the move.

Birdsong allowed one unearned run, five hits and no walks to give the Giants their fourth win in the last five games.

Ryan Walker pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 11 chances.

Willy Adames hit an RBI triple in the fourth inning against Michael Lorenzen (3-5) and scored on a single by Casey Schmitt to give San Francisco a 2-1 lead.

Lorenzen allowed three runs — two earned — and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings in his shortest start of the season for Kansas City.

Kyle Isbel hit a sacrifice fly in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring infield single in the eighth for the Royals, who have been held to four runs or fewer in 42 of 50 games.

The Giants added an insurance run in the fifth after Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino threw wildly to second when he tried to get a force on a grounder by Wilmer Flores. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single to make it 3-1.

San Francisco improved to 25-9 this season against right-handed starters.

RHP Logan Webb (5-3, 2.42 ERA) pitches the series finale for the Giants. Webb is 3-0 with a 0.64 ERA in four starts at home. The Royals are undecided on their starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747822320850.jpeg" alt="San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee hits an RBI single during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)" />
 <figcaption>San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee hits an RBI single during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hayden Birdsong threw five sharp innings in his first start of the season and the San Francisco Giants beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Tuesday night.Birdsong (2-0) was moved from the bullpen to the rotation in place of Jordan Hicks and provided just what manager Bob Melvin hoped he would deliver when he made the move.Birdsong allowed one unearned run, five hits and no walks to give the Giants their fourth win in the last five games.Ryan Walker pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 11 chances.Willy Adames hit an RBI triple in the fourth inning against Michael Lorenzen (3-5) and scored on a single by Casey Schmitt to give San Francisco a 2-1 lead.Lorenzen allowed three runs — two earned — and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings in his shortest start of the season for Kansas City.Kyle Isbel hit a sacrifice fly in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring infield single in the eighth for the Royals, who have been held to four runs or fewer in 42 of 50 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Giants added an insurance run in the fifth after Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino threw wildly to second when he tried to get a force on a grounder by Wilmer Flores. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single to make it 3-1.<h2>Key stat</h2>San Francisco improved to 25-9 this season against right-handed starters.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Logan Webb (5-3, 2.42 ERA) pitches the series finale for the Giants. Webb is 3-0 with a 0.64 ERA in four starts at home. The Royals are undecided on their starter.

⚾️ Birdsong pitches the Giants past the Royals in his 1st start of the season

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Kris Bubic threw seven scoreless innings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bubic-nohitter-royals-massey-error-flores-e0228b731773cfba601e75c8f21c75d2">losing a no-hit bid in the sixth on an official scoring change,</a>&nbsp;and Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run homer in the eighth as the Kansas City Royals got past the San Francisco Giants 3-1 on Monday night.

Bubic, a left-hander who went to Mitty High School in San Jose and then to Stanford, carried his no-hit bid until there were two outs in the sixth. Wilmer Flores hit a grounder to the right side. Second baseman Michael Massey ranged to his left and slipped as the ball got past him. The play originally was ruled an error on Massey, then was changed to a single.

Casey Schmitt’s clean double down the left-field line with one out in the seventh was the only other hit Bubic (5-2) allowed. His ERA fell to 1.47 as he struck out five and walked three.

Giants left-hander Robbie Ray also worked seven shutout innings, lowering his ERA to 2.67. Ray gave up six hits, struck out seven and walked one.

Tyler Rogers (2-2) replaced Ray to begin the eighth in a scoreless game. Jonathan India’s one-out double preceded Pasquantino’s two-out drive over the right-field wall, the first baseman’s eighth home run of the season.

The Giants scored on Jung Hoo Lee’s RBI double in the bottom of the eighth but the Royals got an insurance run on Kyle Isbel’s RBI single off Jordan Hicks in the ninth.

Carlos Estévez pitched a scoreless inning for his 14th save.

After Schmitt’s double, the Giants had runners at second and third with one out in the seventh. Tyler Fitzgerald then hit a soft liner to shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who flipped the ball to third baseman Maikel Garcia to double off Willy Adames and end the inning.

The Giants had won all nine of Ray’s starts this season before Monday.

Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (3-4, 3.76 ERA) faces Giants RHP Hayden Birdsong (1-0, 2.31) on Tuesday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747737194488.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals pitcher Kris Bubic (50) throws against the San Francisco Giants during the sixth inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Monday, May 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals pitcher Kris Bubic (50) throws against the San Francisco Giants during the sixth inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Monday, May 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Kris Bubic threw seven scoreless innings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bubic-nohitter-royals-massey-error-flores-e0228b731773cfba601e75c8f21c75d2">losing a no-hit bid in the sixth on an official scoring change,</a>&nbsp;and Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run homer in the eighth as the Kansas City Royals got past the San Francisco Giants 3-1 on Monday night.Bubic, a left-hander who went to Mitty High School in San Jose and then to Stanford, carried his no-hit bid until there were two outs in the sixth. Wilmer Flores hit a grounder to the right side. Second baseman Michael Massey ranged to his left and slipped as the ball got past him. The play originally was ruled an error on Massey, then was changed to a single.Casey Schmitt’s clean double down the left-field line with one out in the seventh was the only other hit Bubic (5-2) allowed. His ERA fell to 1.47 as he struck out five and walked three.Giants left-hander Robbie Ray also worked seven shutout innings, lowering his ERA to 2.67. Ray gave up six hits, struck out seven and walked one.Tyler Rogers (2-2) replaced Ray to begin the eighth in a scoreless game. Jonathan India’s one-out double preceded Pasquantino’s two-out drive over the right-field wall, the first baseman’s eighth home run of the season.The Giants scored on Jung Hoo Lee’s RBI double in the bottom of the eighth but the Royals got an insurance run on Kyle Isbel’s RBI single off Jordan Hicks in the ninth.Carlos Estévez pitched a scoreless inning for his 14th save.<h2>Key moment</h2>After Schmitt’s double, the Giants had runners at second and third with one out in the seventh. Tyler Fitzgerald then hit a soft liner to shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who flipped the ball to third baseman Maikel Garcia to double off Willy Adames and end the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Giants had won all nine of Ray’s starts this season before Monday.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (3-4, 3.76 ERA) faces Giants RHP Hayden Birdsong (1-0, 2.31) on Tuesday night.

⚾️ Bubic's 7 shutout innings, Pasquantino's homer lift the Royals over the Giants 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Drew Waters led off the seventh inning with a pinch-hit triple, Maikel Garcia drove him in with a single and the Kansas City Royals snapped a four-game skid and avoided a series sweep with a 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday.

With the game tied at 1, Waters batted in place of Dairon Blanco and tripled to right field on the first pitch from reliever Chris Roycroft (1-3). Garcia hit Roycroft's second pitch to right to score Waters with the go-ahead run.

Lucas Erceg (1-0) got five outs for the win and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth and worked around a double by Brendan Donovan for his 13th save in 15 opportunities.

Kansas City's Michael Wacha started against his former team and allowed one run and eight hits in five innings with six strikeouts and no walks. The Royals have scored two runs or less with Wacha on the mound in nine of his 10 starts.

Alec Burleson put the Cardinals up 1-0 in the fourth with his fourth homer of the season.

The Royals then tied it against Matthew Liberatore when Hunter Renfroe led off the bottom half of the fourth with a double and scored on a two-out double by Blanco in his first game of the season.

Liberatore allowed one run and six hits in six innings. He has gone at least six innings in seven of nine starts.

Donovan went 4 for 5 with his 15th double for St. Louis, which had won three straight and 12 of 13.

Salvador Perez had two hits for the Royals after entering in a 1-for-21 slump.

The first two pitches thrown by Roycroft proved to be the difference.

The Cardinals are 50-27 all time at Kaufmann Stadium and 31-30 at home in the series.

Cardinals: RHP Sonny Gray (4-1, 4.50) starts Monday to begin a six-game homestand with three against Detroit.

Royals: LHP Kris Bubic (4-2, 1.66) starts Monday in the first of three against San Francisco to begin a six-game trip.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747601968559.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Drew Waters led off the seventh inning with a pinch-hit triple, Maikel Garcia drove him in with a single and the Kansas City Royals snapped a four-game skid and avoided a series sweep with a 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday.With the game tied at 1, Waters batted in place of Dairon Blanco and tripled to right field on the first pitch from reliever Chris Roycroft (1-3). Garcia hit Roycroft's second pitch to right to score Waters with the go-ahead run.Lucas Erceg (1-0) got five outs for the win and Carlos Estévez pitched the ninth and worked around a double by Brendan Donovan for his 13th save in 15 opportunities.Kansas City's Michael Wacha started against his former team and allowed one run and eight hits in five innings with six strikeouts and no walks. The Royals have scored two runs or less with Wacha on the mound in nine of his 10 starts.Alec Burleson put the Cardinals up 1-0 in the fourth with his fourth homer of the season.The Royals then tied it against Matthew Liberatore when Hunter Renfroe led off the bottom half of the fourth with a double and scored on a two-out double by Blanco in his first game of the season.Liberatore allowed one run and six hits in six innings. He has gone at least six innings in seven of nine starts.Donovan went 4 for 5 with his 15th double for St. Louis, which had won three straight and 12 of 13.Salvador Perez had two hits for the Royals after entering in a 1-for-21 slump.<h2>Key moment</h2>The first two pitches thrown by Roycroft proved to be the difference.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Cardinals are 50-27 all time at Kaufmann Stadium and 31-30 at home in the series.<h2>Up next</h2>Cardinals: RHP Sonny Gray (4-1, 4.50) starts Monday to begin a six-game homestand with three against Detroit.Royals: LHP Kris Bubic (4-2, 1.66) starts Monday in the first of three against San Francisco to begin a six-game trip.

⚾️ Waters' triple in the 7th sparks Royals to victory over Cardinals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jordan Walker homered and Miles Mikolas pitched six sharp innings to lead the surging St. Louis Cardinals past the Kansas City Royals 1-0 on Saturday night.

Mikolas (3-2) allowed two hits with four strikeouts and two walks for the Cardinals, who have won three straight and 12 of 13. St. Louis is 7-1 on a nine-game trip to three cities, winning all three series.

Walker connected leading off sixth. Iván Herrera’s two-out single in the fifth was the only other hit for the Cardinals.

Kyle Leahy permitted two hits in two innings of relief and Ryan Helsley finished the four-hitter for his ninth save.

Hard-luck loser Noah Cameron (1-1) went 6 1/3 innings in his second major league start. The 25-year-old left-hander from St. Joseph, Missouri, became the first pitcher to begin his career with consecutive starts of 6 1/3 or more innings without giving up more than two hits in either one.

Kansas City stranded five runners and has been held to four or fewer runs in seven of the last eight games. The Royals have scored four or more 38 times this season, second-most in the majors.

Walker hit a 422-foot shot to left field for his third homer of the season. He began the night batting .186.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747534891207.png" alt="Photo St. Louis Cardinals" />
 <figcaption>Photo St. Louis Cardinals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jordan Walker homered and Miles Mikolas pitched six sharp innings to lead the surging St. Louis Cardinals past the Kansas City Royals 1-0 on Saturday night.Mikolas (3-2) allowed two hits with four strikeouts and two walks for the Cardinals, who have won three straight and 12 of 13. St. Louis is 7-1 on a nine-game trip to three cities, winning all three series.Walker connected leading off sixth. Iván Herrera’s two-out single in the fifth was the only other hit for the Cardinals.Kyle Leahy permitted two hits in two innings of relief and Ryan Helsley finished the four-hitter for his ninth save.Hard-luck loser Noah Cameron (1-1) went 6 1/3 innings in his second major league start. The 25-year-old left-hander from St. Joseph, Missouri, became the first pitcher to begin his career with consecutive starts of 6 1/3 or more innings without giving up more than two hits in either one.Kansas City stranded five runners and has been held to four or fewer runs in seven of the last eight games. The Royals have scored four or more 38 times this season, second-most in the majors.<h2>Key moment</h2>Walker hit a 422-foot shot to left field for his third homer of the season. He began the night batting .186.<h2>Key stats</h2>St. Louis has its first seven-win road trip since 2021. ... The Royals have lost four in a row, and six of seven since a seven-game winning streak from May 3-9.<h2>Up next</h2>Cardinals LHP Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 3.11 ERA) faces RHP Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.96) in the series finale Sunday.