By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

A chance to celebrate Barton Community College’s rich athletic tradition
and accomplishments. That is how Athletic Director Trevor Rolfs describes the renovations
that are starting up inside the main basketball gym.


With no more basketball games at home, the process to renovate the Cougar Den
and Hall of Fame will get underway. Major construction will wait until after
Barton’s graduation ceremony in May.


"We're making it modern, upgrading, more interactive and more special," said Rolfs. "You celebrate. You celebrate the history of all of those who have come before and made Barton what it is."

The project will include a new Cougar Den on the south end of the gym
overlooking the court, removing the bleachers on the second level. The Cougar
Den will include an interactive Hall of Fame space where patrons can browse the
college’s Hall of Fame inductees.


Rolfs said the renovation, handled by Mammoth Sports Construction, will not
exceed $3 million and is entirely paid for with private donations.


"You talk about being fortunate as the athletic director here...all of the dollars raised for the project are from private donations," said Rolfs. "Many people think a lot about the college from this community and our service area. They have wanted to see this happen for a long time."

Along with the Cougar Den and Hall of Fame, the project will include
renovations to the west hallway with the concession stands, guard rail replacement
around the second floor and locker room improvements.


Barton hopes to have the project complete by Nov. 1, 2025.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Renovations starting for Barton’s new Hall of Fame room

Medical Park Pharmacy, Mayo Money Management, Hazmat Response, Protective Equipment Testing Lab, R&amp;R Roofing, Freedom Claims Management, Inc., Rosencrantz-Bemis Water Well Company, Stone Sand Company/Stone Waste Management, Miller Plastics/Miller Warehouse, Nex-Tech Wireless, USD #431 Hoisington, Great Bend Redi Mix, Heavy Duty Diesel &amp; Auto, USD #428 Great Bend

Make a Difference Contest 

Just as Kansas winter wheat fields are greening up, producers gathered at recent Wheat Rx seminars in Salina and Colby to gain insights into the latest research recommendations for how to maximize the yield and quality of this year’s harvest. The seminars, conducted on March 11 in Salina and March 12 in Colby, provided a comprehensive overview of the combined impact of varietal selection and best management practices.&nbsp;

“A successful harvest is the culmination of the choices producers make throughout the growing season, from selecting area-appropriate varieties to fertilization programs to disease and pest management decisions,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat. “Wheat Rx is about helping producers make informed decisions every step of the way.”&nbsp;

The seminars were part of Wheat Rx, a partnership between Kansas Wheat and K-State Research and Extension, to disseminate the latest research recommendations for high-yielding and high-quality wheat to Kansas wheat farmers. This effort includes a series of extension publications at kswheat.com/wheatrx and educational outreach.&nbsp;

Kicking off the event, Allan Fritz, K-State wheat breeder, discussed the most recent field data from the performance trials conducted each year across the state. Based on high variability in field data in recent years — driven largely by spotty rain and prevalent drought conditions — he encouraged growers to consider multiple years of performance testing when selecting wheat varieties and he cautioned against relying on one year’s outstanding or poor performance. Top traits to watch include not just the overall yield potential, but also stability, disease resistance and quality.&nbsp;

“If it works on your farm, keep using it,” Fritz advised.&nbsp;

Speakers also addressed the importance of fertility management, with Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State associate professor and nutrient management specialist in agronomy, discussing nitrogen and phosphorus applications. He emphasized the importance of striking a balance between optimum agronomic applications and economic efficiency.&nbsp;

“How can we keep efficiency in our applications but cut back on rates?” he asked, highlighting the benefits of split nitrogen applications and the need to consider other nutrients like sulfur in soil testing programs.&nbsp;

Disease management was another crucial topic, with Kelsey Andersen Onofre providing an overview of the relative threat and varietal resistance to diseases like rust, Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV) and its related viruses, Fusarium Head Blight (FHB), Barley Yellow Dwarf and others.&nbsp;

“Looking at average statewide yield loss from 2013 to 2023, stripe rust is by and far the largest disease threat to the Kansas wheat crop,” she noted, highlighting K-State’s new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mQAzDY_ZEW4HE-ARIQG3Vxe7hsgrA-2329M-4rx2GY765evUBNWLMf1AVGsRgH4EBwj_BVyS21iFPn3JfpysshxSy910qYRClp0SGTTuZ2FPHYlkbEI3LD7iCqJ4pmqo0ZpNRJmE0iL-5LgK6maOMS0CxUMbU1eH&amp;c=m5PsfBm19v0j8OnlGZXswwAZUT537JKZYmTQeoY5kckDznUMMG27JA==&amp;ch=x0aWA9RfgMBrGTaNf24zMNw_uEKTMm4AltRlss_Rv4dp5eQfw0s2RQ==">Stripe Rust Risk Forecasting Tool</a>, developed in collaboration with Pennsylvania State University, which allows producers to track as rust spreads from southern states into Kansas. She also emphasized control of volunteer wheat and termination of cover crops that can serve as a green bridge for vectors like the wheat curl mite as critical for all producers.&nbsp;

Other topics included a discussion on weed management by Sarah Lancaster, K-State assistant professor and extension specialist, including the newly released 2025&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mQAzDY_ZEW4HE-ARIQG3Vxe7hsgrA-2329M-4rx2GY765evUBNWLMf1AVGsRgH4EOCOynDftvo818VaPiQuTyvpSfhWbcLzmIs2UrfG4nuUCpszc0rKlMXhxQEJDNPYzK58cb-Z_J7bslmKwQRyKEue5gpGhV1y_3n4ifw1FUyqmK9rCu7paqck3_7ZQTXTht1KR88qROT8fJ9p79G6LVv8DF0z5xwkENO8M9_iDvrClPSdAL5AsoAXNZQ1_LvIJs7ysSoCsmUWyVSdR44LTH4sXAfMkx_KgprBvObKhXMo=&amp;c=m5PsfBm19v0j8OnlGZXswwAZUT537JKZYmTQeoY5kckDznUMMG27JA==&amp;ch=x0aWA9RfgMBrGTaNf24zMNw_uEKTMm4AltRlss_Rv4dp5eQfw0s2RQ==">Chemical Weed Control</a>&nbsp;guide. Of note, she discussed the rise of jointed goatgrass as a weed to watch since there are limited chemical control options in certain wheat varieties.&nbsp;

Romulo Lollato, K-State associate professor of wheat and forage production, rounded out the day with a long-term research project examining the impacts of different management decisions when combined with specific varietal selections. He emphasized that intensive management will likely pay off for producers, particularly for susceptible varieties, but that the initial choice in varietal selection will go a long way to meeting a producer’s goals.&nbsp;

“If you are willing to put the time and money into management, you have more options to select from when it comes to varieties,” he stated. “But just avoiding susceptible varieties can make a lot of difference for producers who want simpler management options.”&nbsp;

The presenters collectively reinforced the importance of integrating research recommendations with a producer’s practical knowledge and on-the-ground experience to strike a balance between maximum yield potential and economic return on investment. Kansas growers can find research recommendations and tools discussed at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mQAzDY_ZEW4HE-ARIQG3Vxe7hsgrA-2329M-4rx2GY765evUBNWLMf1AVGsRgH4EnSiZOcKMasA3306IoEG1ObxiYSXqeeEYFloiPh7Dh6Slc7zgn9xclw20A-PwEusDfX0ATrQcN6Mjqir9pXLJHA==&amp;c=m5PsfBm19v0j8OnlGZXswwAZUT537JKZYmTQeoY5kckDznUMMG27JA==&amp;ch=x0aWA9RfgMBrGTaNf24zMNw_uEKTMm4AltRlss_Rv4dp5eQfw0s2RQ==">https://agmanager.info/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Specifically for wheat producers, Wheat Rx also includes a series of Extension publications and other educational outreach materials designed to address key management areas of hard winter wheat. These publications contain recent data based on novel research funded in part by wheat farmers through the Kansas Wheat Commission’s two-cent wheat assessment. Find out more at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mQAzDY_ZEW4HE-ARIQG3Vxe7hsgrA-2329M-4rx2GY765evUBNWLMUI2J7nydIVWkTJJ8S2ZcSMDZz-RR3hYpBLEUBj7GWXMIo_cNOIZfHR4kutG6QwkGpMxleKAtl1RmEqe1sMPT0C3MwrSyToj7xzVRbbuIokN&amp;c=m5PsfBm19v0j8OnlGZXswwAZUT537JKZYmTQeoY5kckDznUMMG27JA==&amp;ch=x0aWA9RfgMBrGTaNf24zMNw_uEKTMm4AltRlss_Rv4dp5eQfw0s2RQ==">https://kswheat.com/wheatrx</a>.

Written for Kansas Wheat by Julia Debes

Wheat Scoop: Wheat Rx seminars emphasize importance of yield selection

A Hays native is the new medical director of the Emergency Department at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital (PVCH) where he is collaborating “with a great team.”

Aaron Pfeifer, MD, became acquainted with the PVCH staff prior to serving in his new capacity because of the hospital’s relationship with HaysMed; he is also medical director of the Emergency Department at that facility.

“The current staff and former Emergency Department medical directors have done a great job caring for the community,” Dr. Pfeifer said. “I hope to reinforce that.

“The staff are knowledgeable and motivated to excel in meeting the community’s healthcare needs,” he continued. “The facilities and equipment at PVCH are top-notch too. I am excited to serve local and area residents in this modern facility.”

In his new role, Dr. Pfeifer’s responsibilities include: supervising healthcare providers; being available for consultation on complex cases; ensuring clinical guidelines and protocols remain up-to-date; and ensuring quality of care by analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement.

“My goal is to fulfill these responsibilities and further expand high-quality emergency care to our region,” Dr. Pfeifer commented. “Since I was born and raised in Hays, I understand that we are sometimes under-served in western Kansas and want to do my part to provide exceptional healthcare.”

Dr. Pfeifer earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 2010 at Fort Hays State University; post-baccalaureate studies degree at The University of Kansas in 2011; and medical doctor degree in 2015 at the KU School of Medicine in Kansas City.

He performed his emergency medicine residency at Western Michigan Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine at Kalamazoo from 2015-18. Residency titles included chief resident; medical control physician/EMS provider; flight physician; medical simulations lab instructor; and clinical instructor.

From 2008-10, Dr. Pfeifer was an EMT at the Ellis County EMS.

In addition to his other duties at HaysMed, Dr. Pfeifer is the sexual assault nurse examiner medical director.

Dr. Pfeifer and his wife have a son and daughter. “We all enjoy outdoor activities including camping, athletic events, water and snow sports, mountain biking, hunting and fishing.”

Melanie Urban, PVCH administrator, said “Dr. Pfeifer’s extensive background in emergency medicine and leadership illustrates he is a perfect fit for the Emergency Department medical-director position here at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital.

“We are so fortunate that our partnership with HaysMed affords us the opportunity for Dr. Pfeifer to lead our professional and compassionate providers in offering excellent care and treatment in the Emergency Department.”

Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, 923 Carroll in Larned, is a 25-bed facility, offering many services not typically available in a smaller facility. Included are 24/7 emergency care; acute, skilled and specialized nursing; surgery; high-tech imaging and laboratory tests; wound care; rehabilitation; and sleep and diagnostic center. PVCH Family Medicine provides the full range of family-medicine services; physician-assisted weight loss; and women’s health services. The hospital’s number is 620-285-3161; the clinic’s number is 620-804-6007.

Dr. Pfeifer new emergency director at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital

Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services

Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club is hosting the 9th Annual “Hippity Hop Easter Basket Workshop” on April 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rosewood Activity Center, 1607 Main Street, Great Bend, adjacent to Rosewood Gallery.

During the workshop, children can create their own Easter baskets, decorate Easter eggs, and participate in other fun activities, like coloring Easter pages. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, and children can take photos with him. Families have the option of taking free cell phone photos, or pay $3 to receive a printed photo with the Easter Bunny.

Beyond an exciting meet-up with the Easter Bunny, Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster said club members are working on an extra surprise for children to add to the already-fun event.

There is a donation request of $5 per basket for participants, which helps cover the cost of materials for the workshop. Any other proceeds raised from the workshop go toward Rosewood AKTION Club efforts in organizing future community projects.

“Easter Basket Workshop is always such an exciting time for our AKTION Club members because they get to prepare a special day that brings so much joy to children in the community,” said Frankie Pelster. “It’s always an eventful day when children get to spend time with the Easter Bunny. We’re looking forward to hosting this year’s event.”

Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.

Rosewood Services hosting Easter Basket Workshop April 12

Do you know of a good story of a person, business or
organization working to make the Barton County area better or a little brighter? Maybe an unsung hero? 
 
Share your stories to the “<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/246044026597234">Tell Me Something Good! Barton County</a>” Facebook page.
You can also email your ideas to <a href="mailto:col.reif@eaglemedia.com">cole.reif@eaglemedia.com</a>.&nbsp; 
 
Share the positivity with Eagle Media! 
 
Eagle Media reserves all rights on selection of stories submitted.

Tell me something good! Barton County

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is pleased to announce the promotions of Tom Harbaugh, Adam Fisher, and Andy Tewell to key leadership positions within the organization. These individuals bring extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to supplying reliable electricity to Sunflower’s member cooperatives in central and western Kansas.

Tom Harbaugh was promoted to senior manager of transmission line operations, planning, and training. In his new role, Harbaugh oversees Sunflower’s transmission line resources, ensuring all activities are carried out with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability.

He also leads the development and implementation of long-term strategic plans designed to optimize transmission line performance, aligning these efforts with the organization's broader goals while adhering to regulatory, environmental, and industry standards.

Harbaugh’s leadership extends to construction management, where he oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of major transmission line projects. He establishes procedures and work practices to support knowledge retention, effective training, and consistent transmission operations. Additionally, Harbaugh is responsible for fostering collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure system reliability.

A native of Great Bend, Kan., Harbaugh has been with Sunflower since 1999. He began his career as a journeyman lineman and has held multiple leadership roles, including senior line technician, line crew chief, and line technician supervisor. He and his wife, April, reside in Great Bend with their children, Darian, Ashlyn, Cameron, and Jordyn. 

Sunflower promoted Adam Fisher to manager of transmission technical services and project management. In this role, Fisher manages all transmission geotechnical services and project management activities to support Sunflower’s engineering, operations, and member cooperative systems.

As the primary liaison between Sunflower’s transmission technical services group and Sunflower’s members, he develops plans and objectives that align with Sunflower’s goals, while coordinating efforts with other departments and external agencies to ensure seamless project execution.

A native of Hays, Kan., Fisher has been with Sunflower since 2005. He began his career as an engineering technician and has since advanced through positions such as lead transmission technician and transmission geotechnical services supervisor. He and his wife, Erica, live in Hays with their sons, Kenneth and Joseph.

Andy Tewell was recently promoted to senior manager of generation engineering and environment. In his new role, Tewell leads Sunflower’s generation engineering and environment departments, ensuring generation resources are operated and maintained in compliance with environmental permits, federal and state regulations, and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) standards. He also coordinates activities across departments and with external agencies to drive efficiency, reliability, and environmental stewardship.

With his extensive expertise and strong commitment to operational excellence, Tewell is well-positioned to support Sunflower’s mission to build a stronger, brighter future by providing member-driven, world-class service. “I’ve always been impressed with Sunflower’s focus on supporting and developing its people, and I have learned a great deal since joining the team,” he said.

A native of Taylorville, Ill., Tewell holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, a Bachelor of Arts in Management, and is a licensed professional mechanical engineer. He joined Sunflower in 2016 as the generation engineering supervisor. He and his wife, Jodie, reside in Garden City.

Sunflower congratulates Harbaugh, Fisher, and Tewell on their well-earned promotions and looks forward to their continued contributions in advancing the organization’s mission and vision.

Great Bend man promoted at Sunflower Electric

USD 355 Ellinwood thanked Damian &amp; Melissa Tudor and Fred &amp; Angie Gunn for volunteering to paint the baseball and softball dugouts for Ellinwood High School. Join Construction also installed the new softball scoreboard.

Freshly painted dugouts, new scoreboard in Ellinwood

The Barton Community College men's basketball team plays in the first round of the NJCAA National Tournament on Sunday, March 23 against Brunswick Community College (North Carolina).

You can listen to the broadcast on 104.3 FM or online by clicking <a href="https://b1043.net/">HERE</a>.

Tip-off in Hutchinson is at 12 p.m. with the pregame show beginning at 11:45 a.m.

🎧Listen LIVE: Barton 🏀 vs. Brunswick at the National Tournament

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE&nbsp;</a>to view the most recent obituaries and service times from Eagle Media's funeral home partners.

﻿Funeral homes and families can send notices to <a href="mailto:obitsgb@eagleradio.net">obitsgb@eagleradio.net</a>.

Obituary listings are a paid service. Contact Eagle Media for more details.

Recent obituaries 

From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...

Are you ready to take the leap into homeownership but not sure where to start? Join FUEL Barton County for our upcoming Leadership Luncheon, sponsored by First Kansas Bank, to gain valuable insights into the home-buying process.

Tuesday, March 25 Walnut Bowl Topic: First-Time Homebuyers

This informative session will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently navigate their first home purchase. Whether you're curious about financing options, credit readiness, mortgage approvals, or understanding the housing market, our expert speakers will provide guidance tailored to first-time buyers.

Key takeaways include: Steps to prepare financially for buying a home Mortgage options and what lenders look for Understanding home inspections and appraisals Common pitfalls to avoid in the process

This event is free to attend, and lunch is provided, but registration is required. Secure your spot today at greatbend.org.

For questions or more information please contact the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, 620-792-2401, or email fuelbc@greatbend.org.

About FUEL Barton County: FUEL’s mission is to foster personal growth and strengthen community connections through active engagement and leadership. We aim to empower next-gen talent by creating an environment where members can:

· Focus: Set and achieve personal and professional goals · Unite: Build a supportive network of peers · Engage: Participate in impactful projects and initiatives · Lead: Develop leadership skills for career and community influence

FUEL Barton County is a program of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.

FUEL Barton County Leadership Luncheon: First-time homebuyers

Hear this week's County Edition show with Eagle Media's Becca Fletcher and staff from the Barton County Health Department that aired March 20, 2025.

The County Edition program airs every Thursday at 11:05 a.m. on 1590 KVGB &amp; 95.5 FM.&nbsp;

🎙Post Podcast: Barton County Health Department staff

Barton Community College basketball on B104 3 The Point sponsored by Nex-Tech Wireless, Damm Pipe Testing, Mpire Overhead Door, Best Western Angus Inn, Marmie Auto Group, Rosenberg Family Dentistry, The University of Kansas Health System, Venture Corporation, Nex-Tech, Cougar Booster Club, The 10th Street Eye Care Center, Freedom Claims Management and Kansas Fishing Tools

Barton Men 92 Brunswick 62

A team-by-team look at the American League Central, including key players each club acquired and lost, top hitters and projected rotations, and outlooks for the 2025 season.

2024: 92-69, first place, lost to Yankees in AL Championship Series.

He’s Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RHP Luis Ortiz, RHP Paul Sewald, RHP Jakob Junis, LHP John Means

He’s Outta Here: 1B Josh Naylor, 2B Andrés Giménez, CF Myles Straw, RHP Nick Sandlin, LHP Matthew Boyd, RHP Alex Cobb

Top Hitters: 3B José Ramírez (.279, 39 HRs, 118 RBIs, 41 SBs, .872 OPS), LF Steven Kwan (.292, 14, 44, .793 OPS), 1B Carlos Santana (.238, 23, 71, .749 OPS with Minnesota).

Projected Rotation: RH Tanner Bibee (12-8, 3.47 ERA), RH Ben Lively (13-10, 3.81), RH Luis Ortiz (7-6, 3.92 with Pittsburgh), RH Gavin Williams (3-10, 4.86), RH Triston McKenzie (3-5, 5.11)

Key Relievers: RH Emmanuel Clase (4-2, 0.61 ERA, 47/50 saves, 8.0 Ks/9 IP), RH Cade Smith (6-1, 1.91, 1 save), RH Hunter Gaddis (6-3, 1.57), RH Paul Sewald (1-2, 4.31, 16/20 saves with Arizona), LH Jakob Junis (4-0, 2.69, 1 save with Milwaukee and Cincinnati).

Outlook: With Ramírez leading the way on offense and one of baseball’s top bullpens, the Guardians should contend for their sixth AL Central title since 2016. However, there remain concerns about the rotation and the middle of the batting order. Bibee will be the staff’s ace until Shane Bieber returns later this season after having Tommy John surgery last year. The final two rotation spots are questionable after Williams and McKenzie struggled last season. While Ramírez and Kwan provide plenty of offense at the top of the order, the rest of the lineup needs to keep pace. This could be a pivotal year for catcher Bo Naylor, who had 13 home runs but batted only .201 last season.

2024: 86-76, second place AL Central, lost ALDS to Guardians.

Opening Day: March 27 at Los Angeles Dodgers.

He’s Here: 2B Gleyber Torres, RHP Jack Flaherty, RHP John Brebbia, RHP José Urquidy, RHP Tommy Kahnle, RHP Alex Cobb.

He’s Outta Here: RHP Shelby Miller, LHP Joey Wentz, RHP Alex Faedo, OF Mark Canha, 3B Gio Urshela.

Top Hitters: LF Riley Greene (.262, 24 HRs, 74 RBIs), RF Kerry Carpenter (.285, 18, 57), 1B Colt Keith (.260, 13, 61), OF/IF Matt Vierling (.257, 16, 57), Torres (.257, 15, 63), SS Javier Báez (.184, 6, 37).

Projected Rotation: LH Tarik Skubal (18-4, 2.39 ERA, 228 Ks in 192 IP), RH Jack Flaherty (13-7, 3.17 in 28 starts), RH Reese Olson (4-8, 3.53 in 22 starts), RH Jackson Jobe (0-0, 2 Ks in 4 IP), RH Casey Mize (2-6, 4.49).

Key Relievers: RH Jason Foley (3-6, 3.15 ERA, 28 saves), RH Will Vest (3-4, 2.82, 69 games), RH Tommy Kahnle (0-2, 2.11 in 50 games with New York Yankees, LH Tyler Holton (7-2, 2.19 in 66 games), RH John Brebbia (0-6, 5.86 in 59 games with Atlanta and Chicago White Sox).

Outlook: The Tigers are expected to contend for a spot in the playoffs, a year after a late-season surge ended a decade-long postseason drought. They kept their top players and made some key additions, signing a two-time All-Star (Torres) and bringing back Flaherty as a free agent to rejoin a rotation led by the AL Cy Young and Triple Crown winner (Skubal). Injuries may be a concern in the outfield with Vierling, Parker Meadows, Wenceel Perez and Akil Baddoo already banged up and oft-injured Cobb ailing again. If DH Spencer Torkelson can get in a groove at the plate, it would be a big boost for the lineup.

2024: 86-76, tied for second place, lost to Yankees in Division Series.

He’s Here: 2B Jonathan India, RHP Carlos Estevez, INF Cavan Biggio.

He’s Outta Here: RHP Brady Singer, INF Adam Frazier, OF Garrett Hampson, 1B/OF Tommy Pham.

Top Hitters: SS Bobby Witt Jr. (MLB-best .332, 32 HRs, 109 RBIs, 31 SBs), 1B Vinnie Pasquantino (.262, 19, 97), C/1B Salvador Perez (.271, 27, 104), 2B Jonathan India (.248, 15, 58), INF/OF Michael Massey (.259, 14, 45), INF/OF Maikel Garcia (.231, 7, 58, 37 SBs).

Projected Rotation: LH Cole Ragans (11-9, 3.14 ERA), RH Seth Lugo (16-9, 3.00 in MLB-best 33 starts), RH Michael Wacha (13-8, 3.35), RH Michael Lorenzen (2-0, 1.57), LH Kris Bubic (1-1, 2.67).

Key Relievers: RH Lucas Erceg (2-6, 3.36 ERA, 14 saves with Royals and Athletics), RH Carlos Estevez (4-5, 2.45, 26 saves with Angels and Phillies), RH Hunter Harvey (0-0, 6.35), RH John Schreiber (4-3, 3.66), RH Alec Marsh (9-9, 4.53), LH Angel Zerpa (2-0, 3.86).

Outlook: The Royals went from 106-loss laughingstock in manager Matt Quatraro’s first season to 86 wins, a second-place finish in the AL Central and a wild-card series win over Baltimore last year. The biggest reason for the abrupt turnaround was an almost entirely rebuilt starting rotation, which produced All-Stars in Ragans and Lugo and dependability in Singer and Wacha. Singer was traded to the Reds in the deal that landed on-base machine India to play 2B, but the rotation otherwise returns intact with Bubic, Lorenzen and Kyle Wright in the mix for the open job. The Royals failed to land an offensive upgrade in the corner outfield spots, so they will hope incumbents produce more than last season. They can hardly expect more from Witt, who finished second to the Yankees’ Aaron Judge in AL MVP voting while also winning Silver Slugger and Gold Glove awards during his All-Star season. The Royals play in a relatively weak division, so they expect to be in the mix for their first title since 2015, when they went on to beat the Mets for the World Series title.

Manager: Rocco Baldelli (seventh season).

He’s Here: 1B Ty France, OF Harrison Bader, LHP Danny Coulombe.

He’s Outta Here: 1B Carlos Santana, RF Max Kepler, OF Manny Margot, INF Kyle Farmer, OF Alex Kirilloff, LHP Caleb Thielbar, LHP Steven Okert, RHP Josh Staumont.

Top Hitters: SS Carlos Correa (.310, 14 HRs, 54 RBIs, .905 OPS in 86 games), CF Byron Buxton (.279, 18, 56, .859 OPS in 102 games), 3B Royce Lewis (.233, 16, 47 in 82 games), RF Matt Wallner (.259, 13, 37, .894 OPS in 75 games), C Ryan Jeffers (.226, 21, 64).

Projected Rotation: RH Pablo López (15-10, 4.08 ERA, 198 Ks in 185 1/3 innings), RH Bailey Ober (12-9, 3.98, 191 Ks in 178 2/3 innings), RH Joe Ryan (7-7, 3.60, 0.985 WHIP in 23 starts), RH Chris Paddack (5-3, 4.99 in 17 starts), RH Simeon Woods Richardson (5-5, 4.17).

Key Relievers: RH Jhoan Durán (6-9, 3.64 ERA, 23/25 saves, 66 Ks in 54 1/3 innings), RH Griffin Jax (5-5, 2.03, 10/16 saves, 0.873 WHIP, 95 Ks in 71 innings), RH Cole Sands (9-1, 3.28, 85 Ks in 71 1/3 innings), LH Danny Coulombe (1-0, 2.12 in 29 2/3 innings with Orioles).

Outlook: After losing 27 of their last 39 games to tumble out of a spot in the playoffs, the Twins will try to reset on the field while the franchise remains for sale and fan angst is stronger than it’s been in years. Keeping their best players healthy will be the first place to start, after Correa and Lewis missed long stretches with injuries. Buxton was more available than he’d been in seven seasons, but their freefall in mid-August coincided with him hitting the injured list with hip inflammation. Getting a healthy Ryan back for the rotation would also be a big boost, too, after he missed the last six weeks with shoulder trouble. The Twins were 10th in the major leagues in runs in each of the last two seasons despite the series of injuries to several of their key hitters, and their flame-throwing pitching staff that ranked second in baseball in strikeouts in 2024 and first in 2023 features a reliable group of starters and a potentially dominant late-inning trio with Sands and Jax setting up Durán. There’s plenty of potential in a wide-open division for the Twins to bounce right back in 2025.

Opening Day: March 27 vs. Los Angeles Angels.

He’s Here: OF/INF Joey Gallo, INF Brandon Drury, LHP Martín Pérez, C Omar Narváez, INF Bobby Dalbec, LHP Tyler Gilbert, LHP Cam Booser, RHP Bryse Wilson, OF Mike Tauchman, OF Austin Slater.

He’s Outta Here: LHP Garrett Crochet, 3B Yoán Moncada.

Top Hitters: CF Luis Robert Jr. (.224, 14 HRs, 35 RBIs), LF Andrew Benintendi (.229, 20, 64), 1B Andrew Vaughn (.246, 19, 70).

Projected Rotation: RH Jonathan Cannon (5-10, 4.49 ERA), LH Martín Pérez (5-6, 4.53 with Pittsburgh and San Diego), RH Davis Martin (0-5, 4.32), RH Bryse Wilson (5-4, 4.04 in 34 appearances and nine starts for Milwaukee), RH Sean Burke (2-0, 1.42).

Key Relievers: RH Justin Anderson (1-2, 4.39, one save), RH Gus Varland (1-0, 3.42 with Los Angeles Dodgers and White Sox), LH Cam Booser (2-3, 3.38, one save with Boston).

Outlook: The White Sox have nowhere to go but up, right? After all, they set a modern major league record for losses last year in GM Chris Getz’s first full season running baseball operations. The team has new leadership in the dugout with Venable taking over for Pedro Grifol, who was fired last August. Venable was an associate manager under Bruce Bochy in Texas for the past two years. Chicago dealt Crochet to Boston at the winter meetings. But the White Sox hung onto Robert at least for now coming off an injury-riddled season. Benintendi was expected to miss four to six weeks after breaking his right hand when he was hit by a pitch during a spring training game in late February, and right-hander Prelander Berroa is out for the season. The White Sox announced last week he would have Tommy John surgery, leaving them without a key reliever. The 24-year-old Berroa had a 3.32 ERA in 17 appearances last season.

American League Central Preview Capsules

Game 5 at noon: No. 24 Brunswick (NC) vs. No. 9 Barton (Kan.)

Game 6 at 2:30 p.m.: No. 23 Trinidad State (Colo.) vs. No. 10 Pensacola St. (Fla.)

Game 7 at 5:30 p.m.: No. 21 South Georgia St. vs. No. 12 Angelina (Texas)

NJCAA Tournament: Day 2 schedule & results

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals confirmed Saturday they have acquired outfielder Mark Canha from the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Royals will send a player to be named later or cash to the Brewers for Canha, 36.

Canha, who can also play first base, was with the Brewers on a minor league deal and had the right to opt out of his contract on Saturday. He was 2-for-23 with one homer this spring.

Canha made his major league debut with Oakland in 2015, his first of seven seasons with the A's. He has also played for the New York Mets, Detroit and San Francisco. He has a .249 career batting average with 120 homers, including a career-high 26 with Oakland in 2019.

Royals acquire veteran outfielder Mark Canha from Brewers

LAWRENCE, Kan. - Bob Davis, the legendary play by play voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers and Kansas Jayhawks, has passed away at the age of 80, his family announced Friday.

Davis is survived by his son, Steven, daughter-in-law Katie and grandchildren Landon, Will, Millie and Hattie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, who died March 13, 2025, in Lawrence. Bob and Linda were married for 53 years. Bob passed away Thursday, March 20th. 

A 48-year veteran of broadcasting in the state of Kansas, Davis was born in Iola, and grew up in Topeka where he graduated from Topeka West High School in 1962. Davis stayed in Topeka to attend Washburn, where he graduated in 1967 with a degree in history. Davis launched his legendary broadcast career the following year in 1968 when hired by KAYS  and began his broadcasting career during the summer of 1968 calling American Legion baseball. He was the play-by-play voice of the Fort Hays State Tigers until 1984, his tenure culminating by calling the 1984 NAIA National Championship won by the FHSU men's basketball team.

Davis took over the KU play-by-play duties in 1984 until his retirement in 2016. He was on the call for the Jayhawks men's basketball national titles in 1988 and 2008 as well as the Jayhawks Orange Bowl victory in 2008.

In addition to FHSU and KU, Davis called the NCAA Women's Basketball Final Four for CBS Radio six times in 1990, 1992 and 1994-97. Also, in 1997, Davis joined the Kansas City Royals, calling games for radio and television for 16 years. 

Davis earned numerous accolades for his work. He was named the Kansas Sportscaster of the Year by the National Sportscasters and Sports Writers Association 14 times, the last coming in 2015.. Davis was also named the two-time recipient of the Oscar Stauffer Sports Broadcasting Award by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) in 1975 and 1978.

Davis was named to several Hall of Fames including:

• Fort Hays State Athletics Hall of Fame (1990)

• Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2006)

• Topeka West HS Graduates Hall of Fame (2011)

• Topeka-Shawnee County Baseball Hall of Fame (2016)

• Hays HS Athletics Hall of Fame (2024)

Bob Davis, legendary Tigers and Jayhawks voice, dies

By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info

The Barton Community College softball team picked up a conference split today at Cougar Field winning the first 6-5 with the 15th ranked Grizzlies of Butler Community College salvaging the split 8-4 in the nightcap.

The opener's victory was the Cougars' 13th straight to open conference play with the game two loss sliding Barton back to 13-1 and 19-7 overall as Butler departs at 8-4 in league and 15-5 on the season.

Wrapping up its three-date homestand, Barton's next pair comes on the road beginning Wednesday in a 2:00 p.m. first pitch at Hutchinson Community College followed by Saturday's 1:00 p.m. start at Seward County Community College. The Cougars' next home game is in ten days on April 1st versus Colby Community College.

Elina Bartlett and Laney Wood each collected three hits in their six at-bats, Barlett beginning the day with a 2-for-3 performance including a 3-run home run for her 3rd of the year with Wood also going 2-of-3 in the backend of the doubleheader extending her consecutive games with a hit to 19 straight.

Chloe Enslinger's delivered the Cougars' other fence clearer driving the second pitch of game one's second inning into the trees beyond the left field fence for the sophomore's 12th yard exiter of the season and 23rd of her career.

Meleia Ingram earned the complete game one victory scattering six hits and striking out five improving to 10-3 on the year.

Barton's season high four errors in game two didn't help matters in sending Brooklynn Angielski to 8-3 on the year on 3.2 innings of work and three unearned runs with Alicia Goseland allowing just one run in pitching a solid 3.1 innings of work.

A one-out Claire Lopez triple, scoring on an errant throw coming back to the infield, gave Butler the early lead lasting until two pitches into Barton's second frame at-bat as Enslinger's launch to the trees tied it up.

Chloe Odle (5-2) took the game one loss, walking four Cougars in the inning with Wood drawing a bases loaded free pass putting Barton up 2-1.

The margin grew to four in the ensuing third frame, Odle still struggling to find the zone walking Lawrence and Enslinger to begin the inning before one-out later Bartlett belted the first pitch to straight away center for her third of the year.

Butler got two back in the fifth as a hit by pitch and one-out single would score later in the inning on a passed ball and throwing error.

The Grizzlies returned the favor in the sixth inning in what would be the final difference maker as Morgan Thatcher's leadoff hit, advancing to third on a fielder's choice and infield error, was pushed home on Allyson McDougal's fielder's choice.

A one-out walk in the top of the seventh appeared to be stranded until Lopez' single up the middle extended the frame with Chloe Cardona cutting the deficit to one with an RBI double to left. Having struck out the first batter of the frame, Ingram regrouped to get the game ending punchout snapping Barton's three-game losing streak of the series.

In Butler's previous three conference doubleheader splits, twice the Grizzlies rebounded from a game one loss in taking the nightcap and today made it three by scoring one in the first and four in the second for an early 5-0 lead.

The first of the Cougars' season high four errors helped the first tally get on the board, Moran reaching base on a bunt to end up on third via a wild throw to first to score on Lopez' ensuing sac fly.

In the second frame, another error allowed the leadoff to reach followed by Kylie Forney connecting on her sixth home run of the season. A single and two-out hit by pitch extended the inning with Lopez delivering another pair of runs across the plate on triple to left center.

Thatcher's leadoff hit followed by Wood's seventh of the double of the season began the Cougar third inning but needed a two-out base knock from Enslinger to salvage the frame with two runs.

Two-out connections delivered a two-run Butler answer in the ensuing fourth, Moran's leadoff single and stolen base scoring on Cardona's single up the middle. Throwing to the plate in an attempt to get the speedy Moran, Cardona advanced to second on the throw to easily score on Kim Yepez' ensuing double to left field.

Barton also plated two in the home half with two-outs, Bartlett's single advancing to second on a fielding error, being joined by Thatcher's reach via hit batsman and Wood's walk with McDougal's lone hit of the day finding right field to drive in a pair.

Following a scoreless fifth and sixth frame, another two-out Lopez connection delivered Caylee Mann's 1-out hit to close out the scoring as Barton would strand Aly Lawrence's leadoff single in the home half.

Barton Softball splits doubleheader battle with 15th ranked Butler

By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports Info

The Barton Community College baseball team claimed their third straight and second consecutive series victory over a ranked opponent on Saturday afternoon splitting its doubleheader with No. 24 Cloud County Community College at Lee Doyan Field in Concordia, KS.

In the opener, John Connors drove in both runs while a trio of arms combined to hold the T-Birds to just one run in the series clinching 2-1 victory. The T-Birds dominated the final game of the series with a 21-4 seven-inning victory.

Following the days split results, Barton remains atop the Jayhawk West standings at 10-2 and 17-5 overall while Cloud County remains in second place at 9-3 in league play and 20-8 overall.

The Cougars will step out of conference play for a brief two-game homestand on Tuesday afternoon hosting Rose State College in a 1:00 p.m. first pitch from Lawson-Biggs Field. The two teams opened the season splitting their doubleheader with Barton taking the opener 2-0 while the Raiders fought back taking the backend 5-3.

On the afternoon the Cougars were held to just six runs and outhit 24-14 over the 14-innings.

Connors and Jaxon Case led the run production each driving in two-runs. Connors coming off his pair of singles in the opener while Case distributed one of the two Barton round trippers in the nightcap with his third of the season.

Kyle Walker was the lone Cougar to collect a hit in both contests going 1-for-3 in game one and 1-1 in game two.

Connors drove in his two runs in his first two at-bats. The freshman provided the second two-out hit in the opening frame with a single to left scoring Ayden Hadley's first of two doubles giving Barton a 1-0 lead.

The duo delivered again to open the fourth inning, providing the big insurance run and eventual game winning run in the top of the fourth with Hadley's second double kickstarting the inning with Connors single ensuing on the next pitch making it a 2-0 Cougar advantage.

The T-Birds scored their lone run off Barton starter Owen Pote in the bottom of the fourth as a two-out double crossed on the first of two succeeding singles with Pote escaping the jam inducing a flyout to conclude his day.

Turning things over to the Cougar bullpen, relievers Andrew McCarthy and Kiernan Meredith combined to toss the final three shutout innings surrendered three hits with one walk in securing the 2-1 series clinching victory.

Pote (3-2) earned the victory working four-innings allowing one run on five hits with two walks and four strikeouts.

Meredith collected his third save of the season handling the final two-frames fanning four T-Birds while allowing two hits.

T-Bird pitchers Ben Soke and Cohen Nelson limited the Cougars to four runs and eight hits in the final game of the series. Soke yielded just one run on two hits with a pair of walks and three strikeouts over the opening three innings while Nelson struck out seven, allowing three runs on six hits over the final four frames.

Cloud County scored in the opening four innings with the major damage coming in an 11-run second fueled behind seven hits, two Barton errors, two walks and a hit batsman.

Hunter Alvord delivered the first of two Barton home runs in the contest with a top of the third two-out solo-shot to left for his fifth of the season.

Barrett Donaldson's two-out double accounted for the Cougars second run scoring Kyle Graves leadoff fifth inning single.

Utilizing the bench with all nine starters being lifted, Case capped the scoring with a two-run blast to center field for his third of the season bringing home Carter Heim's collegiate first pinch hit double.

Eight Cougar pitchers gave up 16 hits, 21 runs, four walks and two hit batsmen.

Ethan Minaker (0-2) was the losing pitcher.

Barton Baseball knocks off No. 24 Cloud County

NCAASecond RoundSOUTHat Ball Arena

Saint Mary's (Cal.)	vs	Alabama	6:10 p.m.	

NCAA Men's Tournament Scoreboard

LEXINGTON, Ky (AP) — The fourth-seeded Kentucky Wildcats got a reminder of how quickly leads can disappear in their women's NCAA Tournament opener.

Now they hope they don't forget how to finish out a win.

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