KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs general manager Brett Veach tends to stick with the well-worn mantra of taking the “best player available” when the NFL draft rolls around.

However he also is willing to acknowledge that sometimes specific needs might make that a challenge.

There are couple of very specific needs as Kansas City prepares to make its selections beginning April 25.

The Chiefs won their second consecutive Super Bowl, and third in five years, despite a wide receiver group that struggled with drops, poor productivity and seldom provided a big play. In fact, the Chiefs had to swing a midseason trade with the Jets to bring back Mecole Hardman, who is hardly a No. 1 option, just to give their wide receiver group some depth.

The Chiefs thought they had begun to address the deficiency when they signed “Hollywood” Brown in free agency, pairing the injury-prone speedster with Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago. But Rice is facing felony charges in connection with a chain-reaction traffic crash in Texas, and nobody quite knows how much — or if at all — he will be able to play this upcoming season.

So, wide receiver is back to being the biggest need in the draft for Kansas City.

"I think much like any position, we're always looking to get better," Veach said. “We put a high priority on the depth in our roster, so we’ll attack that much like we do all positions and try to get the very best players we can.”

Given the Chiefs are due to pick last in the first round, it helps their cause that wide receiver is among the deepest positions in the draft. Three are expected to go in the top 10 and six or more could go before the first night has concluded.

The other priority for Kansas City is left tackle, where Donovan Smith hit free agency and the position largely remains vacant.

Wanya Morris was shaky when he got opportunities to play as a rookie, and he may need more seasoning before he is tasked with protecting Patrick Mahomes' blind side. Lucas Niang is another option, but he has struggled to stay healthy.

Other positions where the Chiefs could add some depth including running back, tight end and defensive back.

“Every team’s process is a little bit different and unique. We have ours and there’s always a chance to refine and tune things,” Veach said. “Again, I think in this league because of such a long season — I’m talking a 20-game season, it’s a marathon, you have to attack every position with a mindset of having that depth because it’s not a matter of if, but when, players go down.”

Wide receiver and left tackle are not the only needs. The Chiefs also could use more help at running back, even after bringing back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on a prove-it deal, and perhaps another tight end to groom for post-Travis Kelce life.

The Chiefs chose to keep one of the league's best defenses intact, re-signing All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones to a mammoth deal along with five other regulars. So after drafting heavily on defense the past few years, the Chiefs are largely good on that entire side of the ball, though they might take a late flier on a pass rusher or defensive back.

The Chiefs have the final pick in each round after winning their second straight Super Bowl and third in five years, so unless they make a trade, their initial selection will be No. 32 overall. They have late picks in each of the rounds except for the fifth, where a trade with Dallas last year moved them up and they also have a compensatory selection.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs general manager Brett Veach tends to stick with the well-worn mantra of taking the “best player available” when the NFL draft rolls around.However he also is willing to acknowledge that sometimes specific needs might make that a challenge.There are couple of very specific needs as Kansas City prepares to make its selections beginning April 25.The Chiefs won their second consecutive Super Bowl, and third in five years, despite a wide receiver group that struggled with drops, poor productivity and seldom provided a big play. In fact, the Chiefs had to swing a midseason trade with the Jets to bring back Mecole Hardman, who is hardly a No. 1 option, just to give their wide receiver group some depth.The Chiefs thought they had begun to address the deficiency when they signed “Hollywood” Brown in free agency, pairing the injury-prone speedster with Rashee Rice, a breakout star a year ago. But Rice is facing felony charges in connection with a chain-reaction traffic crash in Texas, and nobody quite knows how much — or if at all — he will be able to play this upcoming season.So, wide receiver is back to being the biggest need in the draft for Kansas City."I think much like any position, we're always looking to get better," Veach said. “We put a high priority on the depth in our roster, so we’ll attack that much like we do all positions and try to get the very best players we can.”Given the Chiefs are due to pick last in the first round, it helps their cause that wide receiver is among the deepest positions in the draft. Three are expected to go in the top 10 and six or more could go before the first night has concluded.The other priority for Kansas City is left tackle, where Donovan Smith hit free agency and the position largely remains vacant.Wanya Morris was shaky when he got opportunities to play as a rookie, and he may need more seasoning before he is tasked with protecting Patrick Mahomes' blind side. Lucas Niang is another option, but he has struggled to stay healthy.Other positions where the Chiefs could add some depth including running back, tight end and defensive back.“Every team’s process is a little bit different and unique. We have ours and there’s always a chance to refine and tune things,” Veach said. “Again, I think in this league because of such a long season — I’m talking a 20-game season, it’s a marathon, you have to attack every position with a mindset of having that depth because it’s not a matter of if, but when, players go down.”NEEDSWide receiver and left tackle are not the only needs. The Chiefs also could use more help at running back, even after bringing back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on a prove-it deal, and perhaps another tight end to groom for post-Travis Kelce life.DON’T NEEDThe Chiefs chose to keep one of the league's best defenses intact, re-signing All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones to a mammoth deal along with five other regulars. So after drafting heavily on defense the past few years, the Chiefs are largely good on that entire side of the ball, though they might take a late flier on a pass rusher or defensive back.PICK ’EMThe Chiefs have the final pick in each round after winning their second straight Super Bowl and third in five years, so unless they make a trade, their initial selection will be No. 32 overall. They have late picks in each of the rounds except for the fifth, where a trade with Dallas last year moved them up and they also have a compensatory selection.

Chiefs could be forced to pick a wide receiver early in NFL draft

- New Great Bend Panther Wrestling coach Lars Lueders joins the show to talk about his new position that will become official pending school board approval. The 3-time KWCA coach of the year will talk about his plans for the Panther wrestling programs.

- Panther Baseball coach Randy Beck recaps Tuesday's triangular at McPherson, and this weekend's action in De Soto where the Panthers will face three different state ranked teams.

- Barton Softball coach Carson Dubose preview's Friday Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at NW Tech.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Thursday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Thursday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mtVSsGb8f6k?si=qs1yn-VoPuw3Fvnh" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- New Great Bend Panther Wrestling coach Lars Lueders joins the show to talk about his new position that will become official pending school board approval. The 3-time KWCA coach of the year will talk about his plans for the Panther wrestling programs.- Panther Baseball coach Randy Beck recaps Tuesday's triangular at McPherson, and this weekend's action in De Soto where the Panthers will face three different state ranked teams.- Barton Softball coach Carson Dubose preview's Friday Jayhawk Conference doubleheader at NW Tech.- Thursday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

Fans of Salina Central didn't have to wait long for a new head girls' basketball coach as on Thursday, the school announced that Paige Talbott will be taking the role pending board approval.

Talbott brings college coaching experience after spending the last two years as an assistant at Emporia State University, as well as college playing experience at both Barton Community College and Bethany College.

The local product graduated from Ellsworth High School and should be a great fit for the Lady Mustang program.

"I am honored and beyond excited to be a part of the coaching staff at Salina Central," Talbott said in a statement issued this morning. "I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with the Lady Mustangs as we carry forth the tradition of excellence and positive culture of the Salina Central basketball program."

With former head girls coach Chris Fear sliding over to lead the boy's program next year, Salina Central is all set for the upcoming winter and should be ready to roll once action resumes on the hardwood.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostFans of Salina Central didn't have to wait long for a new head girls' basketball coach as on Thursday, the school announced that Paige Talbott will be taking the role pending board approval.Talbott brings college coaching experience after spending the last two years as an assistant at Emporia State University, as well as college playing experience at both Barton Community College and Bethany College.The local product graduated from Ellsworth High School and should be a great fit for the Lady Mustang program."I am honored and beyond excited to be a part of the coaching staff at Salina Central," Talbott said in a statement issued this morning. "I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with the Lady Mustangs as we carry forth the tradition of excellence and positive culture of the Salina Central basketball program."With former head girls coach Chris Fear sliding over to lead the boy's program next year, Salina Central is all set for the upcoming winter and should be ready to roll once action resumes on the hardwood.

Former Barton, Ellsworth 🏀 player named Salina Central coach

The Lady Panther softball team got an extra day off with high winds moving through Hays Tuesday. The Lady Indians took Wednesday's made up contest 3-1, with all four runs in the game coming in the first three innings.

With two outs in the first, Great Bend got singles from Kya Behr and Kamryn Koelsch, and a double from DeShawnna Bryant, but a tag at the plate ended the threat.&nbsp; The Lady Panthers went down in order in the second inning. Hays opened scoring in the bottom of the frame with a sac fly.

The Lady Panthers evened the score in the third inning on their own sac fly after Paige Thexton singled and scored on a ball hit by Behr. Camdyn Post singled and was left stranded at third. Hays got a 2-out double in the bottom of the third to drive in the final two runs of the game.

Great Bend struck out eight times and finished with seven hits. Bryant and Thexton each doubled and singled. Behr drove in the lone run.

Braelyn Turner threw the first three innings, striking out one and allowing two earned runs on six hits. Chayla Prendergast threw the final four innings, striking out four and holding the Lady Indians hitless.

Great Bend is scheduled to host Hays for a pair of games beginning at 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Sports Complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673886567489.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post SportsThe Lady Panther softball team got an extra day off with high winds moving through Hays Tuesday. The Lady Indians took Wednesday's made up contest 3-1, with all four runs in the game coming in the first three innings.With two outs in the first, Great Bend got singles from Kya Behr and Kamryn Koelsch, and a double from DeShawnna Bryant, but a tag at the plate ended the threat.&nbsp; The Lady Panthers went down in order in the second inning. Hays opened scoring in the bottom of the frame with a sac fly.The Lady Panthers evened the score in the third inning on their own sac fly after Paige Thexton singled and scored on a ball hit by Behr. Camdyn Post singled and was left stranded at third. Hays got a 2-out double in the bottom of the third to drive in the final two runs of the game.Great Bend struck out eight times and finished with seven hits. Bryant and Thexton each doubled and singled. Behr drove in the lone run.Braelyn Turner threw the first three innings, striking out one and allowing two earned runs on six hits. Chayla Prendergast threw the final four innings, striking out four and holding the Lady Indians hitless.Great Bend is scheduled to host Hays for a pair of games beginning at 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Sports Complex.

Lady Panthers drop first of three games against Hays

By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info

Breaking the NJCAA national discus record this week, Cedricka Williams of the 5th ranked Barton Community College women's track and field team has been named the U.S. Track &amp; Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Outdoor Women's Athlete of the Week.

Two weeks prior Williams also won the weekly honor after breaking the program's record with a then NJCAA 3rd furthest all-time throw.

This past Saturday in Wichita at the KT Woodman Classic, Williams not only exceeded her collegiate best by seven feet but bettered the national all-time furthest by over three and a half feet to etch her name at the top marking 57.57m (188-11).

Just a freshman, Williams' personal best is still ten inches further as she set the Jamaican U20 record (57.84m, 189-9) at last year's ISSA High School Championships.

Fellow freshman Ivanilda Semedo also bettered her best effort on Saturday in finishing second in the event on a 53.98m (177-01) throw to not only solidify her program second best slot but move into the 5th best NJCAA all-time spot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713437442202.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoBreaking the NJCAA national discus record this week, Cedricka Williams of the 5th ranked Barton Community College women's track and field team has been named the U.S. Track &amp; Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Outdoor Women's Athlete of the Week.Two weeks prior Williams also won the weekly honor after breaking the program's record with a then NJCAA 3rd furthest all-time throw.This past Saturday in Wichita at the KT Woodman Classic, Williams not only exceeded her collegiate best by seven feet but bettered the national all-time furthest by over three and a half feet to etch her name at the top marking 57.57m (188-11).Just a freshman, Williams' personal best is still ten inches further as she set the Jamaican U20 record (57.84m, 189-9) at last year's ISSA High School Championships.Fellow freshman Ivanilda Semedo also bettered her best effort on Saturday in finishing second in the event on a 53.98m (177-01) throw to not only solidify her program second best slot but move into the 5th best NJCAA all-time spot.

Barton's Williams earns her second National Athlete of the Week award

AMERICAN LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBNew York	13	6	.684	—Baltimore	12	6	.667	½Boston	10	9	.526	3Tampa
Bay	10	9	.526	3Toronto	10	9	.526	3Central DivisionCleveland	12	6	.667	—Kansas
City	12	7	.632	½Detroit	10	8	.556	2Minnesota	6	11	.353	5½Chicago	3	15	.167	9West DivisionTexas	10	9	.526	—Los
Angeles	9	9	.500	½Seattle	9	10	.474	1Oakland	8	11	.421	2Houston	6	14	.300	4½NATIONAL LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBAtlanta	12	5	.706	—Philadelphia	11	8	.579	2New
York	10	8	.556	2½Washington	8	10	.444	4½Miami	4	15	.211	9Central DivisionMilwaukee	11	6	.647	—Chicago	11	7	.611	½Pittsburgh	11	8	.579	1Cincinnati	9	9	.500	2½St.
Louis	9	10	.474	3West DivisionLos
Angeles	12	9	.571	—San
Diego	11	10	.524	1Arizona	9	10	.474	2San
Francisco	8	11	.421	3

MLB Standings

CHICAGO (AP) —
Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the
sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas
City Royals 2-1 for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.
Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener
to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2. Paul
DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game
after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The
White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP)
— Esteury Ruiz homered for the second time in three games since
being recalled from Triple-A, and the Oakland Athletics beat the St.
Louis Cardinals 6-3 on Wednesday to avoid a three-game sweep. Iván
Herrera drove in two runs for the Cardinals, who fell to 0-6 in
series finales this season. Willson Contreras had two hits and an
RBI, extending his hitting streak to a career-high 11 games. A’s
starter Paul Blackburn allowed three runs in 5 2/3 innings, ending a
scoreless streak of 22 1/3 innings. Blackburn earned his second win
despite giving up six hits and five walks.

UNDATED (AP) —
NCAA athletes will be immediately eligible to play no matter how many
times they transfer — as long as they meet academic requirements.
The NCAA Division I Council’s move fast tracks legislation to fall
in line with a recent court order. The council’s decision still
needs approval from the D-I Board, which meets next week. The new
rules would go into effect immediately, though in reality they have
already been enacted through a lawsuit filed late last year by a
coalition of states. A judge in West Virginia granted a temporary
injunction that lifted restrictions on multiple-time transfers.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Joel Embiid had 23 points, 15 rebounds and one huge assist to Kelly
Oubre Jr. on a late go-ahead three-point play that led the 76ers to a
105-104 win over the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference play-in
tournament on Wednesday night. The 76ers earned the seventh seed and
advance to play the second-seeded New York Knicks in the opening
round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Game 1 is Saturday at
Madison Square Garden. The Heat - who went from the play-in tourney
to the NBA Finals a year ago — host Chicago on Friday night. The
winner gets the No. 8 seed.

UNDATED (AP) — The
NBA has banned Toronto player Jontay Porter after a league probe
found he disclosed confidential information to sports bettors and bet
on games. Porter, the league said, gave a bettor information about
his own health status prior to Toronto’s game on March 20. The
league said another individual, known to be an NBA bettor, placed an
$80,000 bet that Porter would not hit the numbers set for him in
parlays through an online sports book. That bet would have won $1.1
million. Porter is the second person to be banned by Commissioner
Adam Silver for violating league rules. The other was now-former Los
Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling in 2014.

UNDATED (AP) —
Golden State guard Stephen Curry knew he was running out of chances
to play in what would be his first Olympics, so he and his wife
Ayesha started planning many months ago about how to make the Paris
Games work for their family. Their growing family, that is. Ayesha
Curry revealed in March that she is pregnant with the couple’s
fourth child and the baby is due in June. That’s not entirely by
accident; the couple thought ahead with hopes of keeping the Olympic
months of July and August clear. Just in case. And USA Basketball
made it official Wednesday, saying Curry is on the roster picked for
the Paris Games.

TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) —
Mullett Arena buzzed like few times in the two years since the
Arizona Coyotes moved in, the fans amped for one last desert hurrah.
For 60 minutes, they got one last chance to watch the team they came
to love before the franchise as they know it is no more. The Coyotes
are moving to Salt Lake City in a deal that could be signed less than
24 hours after Wednesday night’s 5-2 win over Edmonton. Hockey
could return, perhaps within five years, but the stark reality is
this is the end for the foreseeable future. Not knowing if or when
hockey will return, Coyotes fans treated the Mullett finale like one
big party, even if it was a wake.

NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PLAYOFFS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712497619824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) —
Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the
sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas
City Royals 2-1 for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.
Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener
to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2. Paul
DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game
after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The
White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.OAKLAND, Calif. (AP)
— Esteury Ruiz homered for the second time in three games since
being recalled from Triple-A, and the Oakland Athletics beat the St.
Louis Cardinals 6-3 on Wednesday to avoid a three-game sweep. Iván
Herrera drove in two runs for the Cardinals, who fell to 0-6 in
series finales this season. Willson Contreras had two hits and an
RBI, extending his hitting streak to a career-high 11 games. A’s
starter Paul Blackburn allowed three runs in 5 2/3 innings, ending a
scoreless streak of 22 1/3 innings. Blackburn earned his second win
despite giving up six hits and five walks.UNDATED (AP) —
NCAA athletes will be immediately eligible to play no matter how many
times they transfer — as long as they meet academic requirements.
The NCAA Division I Council’s move fast tracks legislation to fall
in line with a recent court order. The council’s decision still
needs approval from the D-I Board, which meets next week. The new
rules would go into effect immediately, though in reality they have
already been enacted through a lawsuit filed late last year by a
coalition of states. A judge in West Virginia granted a temporary
injunction that lifted restrictions on multiple-time transfers.PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Joel Embiid had 23 points, 15 rebounds and one huge assist to Kelly
Oubre Jr. on a late go-ahead three-point play that led the 76ers to a
105-104 win over the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference play-in
tournament on Wednesday night. The 76ers earned the seventh seed and
advance to play the second-seeded New York Knicks in the opening
round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Game 1 is Saturday at
Madison Square Garden. The Heat - who went from the play-in tourney
to the NBA Finals a year ago — host Chicago on Friday night. The
winner gets the No. 8 seed.UNDATED (AP) — The
NBA has banned Toronto player Jontay Porter after a league probe
found he disclosed confidential information to sports bettors and bet
on games. Porter, the league said, gave a bettor information about
his own health status prior to Toronto’s game on March 20. The
league said another individual, known to be an NBA bettor, placed an
$80,000 bet that Porter would not hit the numbers set for him in
parlays through an online sports book. That bet would have won $1.1
million. Porter is the second person to be banned by Commissioner
Adam Silver for violating league rules. The other was now-former Los
Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling in 2014.UNDATED (AP) —
Golden State guard Stephen Curry knew he was running out of chances
to play in what would be his first Olympics, so he and his wife
Ayesha started planning many months ago about how to make the Paris
Games work for their family. Their growing family, that is. Ayesha
Curry revealed in March that she is pregnant with the couple’s
fourth child and the baby is due in June. That’s not entirely by
accident; the couple thought ahead with hopes of keeping the Olympic
months of July and August clear. Just in case. And USA Basketball
made it official Wednesday, saying Curry is on the roster picked for
the Paris Games.TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) —
Mullett Arena buzzed like few times in the two years since the
Arizona Coyotes moved in, the fans amped for one last desert hurrah.
For 60 minutes, they got one last chance to watch the team they came
to love before the franchise as they know it is no more. The Coyotes
are moving to Salt Lake City in a deal that could be signed less than
24 hours after Wednesday night’s 5-2 win over Edmonton. Hockey
could return, perhaps within five years, but the stark reality is
this is the end for the foreseeable future. Not knowing if or when
hockey will return, Coyotes fans treated the Mullett finale like one
big party, even if it was a wake.WEDNESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	5	Houston	4	Final	Oakland	6	St.
Louis	3	Final	Seattle	5	Cincinnati	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Baltimore	4	Minnesota	2	Final	Texas	5	Detroit	4	Final	Kansas
City	4	Chicago White Sox	2	Final	N.Y.
Yankees	6	Toronto	4	Final	Chicago White
Sox	2	Kansas City	1	Final	Boston	2	Cleveland	0	Final	L.A.
Angels	5	Tampa Bay	4	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	San
Francisco	3	Miami	1	Final	Milwaukee	1	San
Diego	0	Final	N.Y.
Mets	9	Pittsburgh	1	Final	Washington	2	L.A.
Dodgers	0	Final	Chicago
Cubs	5	Arizona	3	Final	Philadelphia	7	Colorado	6	NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PLAYOFFSFinal	Philadelphia	105	Miami	104	Final	Chicago	131	Atlanta	116	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUEFinal	Tampa
Bay	6	Toronto	4	Final	N-Y
Islanders	5	Pittsburgh	4	Final
SO	Dallas	2	St. Louis	1

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

CHICAGO (AP) — Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Wednesday for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.

Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2.

Paul DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.

“I don't think I've played a doubleheader where we did 30 minutes in-between,” DeJong said. "Two full nines, so it was a grinder day, but we got it done in the second game.

“To win a tight game against a team that's kind of beaten us all year, that's special for us."

The doubleheader was scheduled after Tuesday night’s game was rained out. The Royals (12-7) are 6-1 against the AL Central rival White Sox.

Fedde (1-0) allowed three hits, including two infield singles, over 5 2/3 innings for his first win with Chicago. The 31-year-old right-hander signed with the White Sox in December after pitching in South Korea last season.

“It went really well,” Fedde said of his fourth start with Chicago. “I felt like I was able to get leadoff guys out, control counts. Had a few walks (three), but I picked my places with it and got to good situations overall.”

Sheets' solo shot in the sixth off Michael Wacha struck the right-field foul pole and put Chicago ahead 2-0. Dominic Fletcher drove in Chicago's first run with a single in the fourth.

Hunter Renfroe knocked in a run with a groundout in the seventh against Tanner Banks, Chicago's first reliever. Deivi Garcia followed with two scoreless innings for his second career save and first this season.

Wacha (1-1) yielded two runs and four hits in six innings. The veteran righty struck out four and walked two.

“Our hitters will be there. They come up clutch, they get timely hitting,” Wacha said. “It just wasn't in the cards today.”

It was in the opener, though, when Perez homered off Michael Kopech to left-center to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. Kansas City’s eight-time All-Star catcher started both ends of the twinbill after missing Monday's game with a groin injury.

“Clearly, that home run was the huge point in the game," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But regardless, I thought (Perez) looked really good prior to that, too.”

Perez launched the first pitch he saw from the hard-throwing Kopech with two outs for his fifth home run.

“Not surprised. He earned that,” Quatraro said. “I mean, Kopech, that guy's got an electric arm. To be able to turn a fastball around like that, that's impressive.”

Perez, who turns 34 next month, was injured in a collision at the plate in a 2-1 loss to the Mets in New York on Sunday.

Renfroe added a solo shot in the ninth and Adam Frazier drove in the Royals’ first run with a single. Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits and was aboard for Perez's homer after beating out an infield single.

DeJong hit a two-run homer off Royals starter Brady Singer.

Nick Anderson (1-1), the second of four Kansas City relievers, pitched a scoreless seventh for the win. James McArthur worked around DeJong's double in the ninth for his fourth save.

Kopech (0-2) allowed two runs on two hits in the eighth and was charged with his first blown save.

Singer yielded two runs and three hits in five innings, walking three and striking out five. The right-hander had given up just two runs over 18 1/3 innings in three previous starts for a 0.98 ERA.

White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon pitched five strong innings in his major league debut and exited with a 2-1 lead. The lanky 23-year-old right-hander allowed three hits, struck out three and walked one while throwing 54 of 79 pitches for strikes.

“I thought I did well. I thought I executed a lot of pitches,” said Cannon, who had family and friends in the stands. "I was really able to execute my game plan going in.

“It was a dream come true, really," he added.

Cannon retired his first five hitters and should have gotten a sixth to end the second. Nelson Velázquez hit a line drive to center field, but Fletcher slipped twice and the ball sailed over him for a double.

Chicago jumped on top 2-1 in the bottom half on DeJong’s third homer.

Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham was expected to report to Triple-A Charlotte after finalizing a minor league contract with the White Sox on Tuesday.

Royals: RHP Alec Marsh (2-0, 4.32 ERA) faces Baltimore RHP Dean Kremer (0-1, 4.96) in Kansas City on Friday.

White Sox: LHP Garrett Crochet (1-2, 3.57 ERA) takes the mound Friday in Philadelphia against RHP Spencer Turnbull (1-0, 1.80).

CHICAGO (AP) — Gavin Sheets homered, Erick Fedde pitched scoreless ball into the sixth inning and the struggling Chicago White Sox edged the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Wednesday for a doubleheader split that ended a six-game slide.Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of the opener to put the Royals ahead, and Kansas City went on to win 4-2.Paul DeJong had a five-hit day, adding two singles in the second game after going 3 for 3 in the first with a homer, double and walk. The White Sox are off to the worst start in franchise history at 3-15.“I don't think I've played a doubleheader where we did 30 minutes in-between,” DeJong said. "Two full nines, so it was a grinder day, but we got it done in the second game.“To win a tight game against a team that's kind of beaten us all year, that's special for us."The doubleheader was scheduled after Tuesday night’s game was rained out. The Royals (12-7) are 6-1 against the AL Central rival White Sox.Fedde (1-0) allowed three hits, including two infield singles, over 5 2/3 innings for his first win with Chicago. The 31-year-old right-hander signed with the White Sox in December after pitching in South Korea last season.“It went really well,” Fedde said of his fourth start with Chicago. “I felt like I was able to get leadoff guys out, control counts. Had a few walks (three), but I picked my places with it and got to good situations overall.”Sheets' solo shot in the sixth off Michael Wacha struck the right-field foul pole and put Chicago ahead 2-0. Dominic Fletcher drove in Chicago's first run with a single in the fourth.Hunter Renfroe knocked in a run with a groundout in the seventh against Tanner Banks, Chicago's first reliever. Deivi Garcia followed with two scoreless innings for his second career save and first this season.Wacha (1-1) yielded two runs and four hits in six innings. The veteran righty struck out four and walked two.“Our hitters will be there. They come up clutch, they get timely hitting,” Wacha said. “It just wasn't in the cards today.”It was in the opener, though, when Perez homered off Michael Kopech to left-center to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. Kansas City’s eight-time All-Star catcher started both ends of the twinbill after missing Monday's game with a groin injury.“Clearly, that home run was the huge point in the game," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “But regardless, I thought (Perez) looked really good prior to that, too.”Perez launched the first pitch he saw from the hard-throwing Kopech with two outs for his fifth home run.“Not surprised. He earned that,” Quatraro said. “I mean, Kopech, that guy's got an electric arm. To be able to turn a fastball around like that, that's impressive.”Perez, who turns 34 next month, was injured in a collision at the plate in a 2-1 loss to the Mets in New York on Sunday.Renfroe added a solo shot in the ninth and Adam Frazier drove in the Royals’ first run with a single. Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits and was aboard for Perez's homer after beating out an infield single.DeJong hit a two-run homer off Royals starter Brady Singer.Nick Anderson (1-1), the second of four Kansas City relievers, pitched a scoreless seventh for the win. James McArthur worked around DeJong's double in the ninth for his fourth save.Kopech (0-2) allowed two runs on two hits in the eighth and was charged with his first blown save.Singer yielded two runs and three hits in five innings, walking three and striking out five. The right-hander had given up just two runs over 18 1/3 innings in three previous starts for a 0.98 ERA.White Sox starter Jonathan Cannon pitched five strong innings in his major league debut and exited with a 2-1 lead. The lanky 23-year-old right-hander allowed three hits, struck out three and walked one while throwing 54 of 79 pitches for strikes.“I thought I did well. I thought I executed a lot of pitches,” said Cannon, who had family and friends in the stands. "I was really able to execute my game plan going in.“It was a dream come true, really," he added.Cannon retired his first five hitters and should have gotten a sixth to end the second. Nelson Velázquez hit a line drive to center field, but Fletcher slipped twice and the ball sailed over him for a double.Chicago jumped on top 2-1 in the bottom half on DeJong’s third homer.Veteran outfielder Tommy Pham was expected to report to Triple-A Charlotte after finalizing a minor league contract with the White Sox on Tuesday.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Alec Marsh (2-0, 4.32 ERA) faces Baltimore RHP Dean Kremer (0-1, 4.96) in Kansas City on Friday.White Sox: LHP Garrett Crochet (1-2, 3.57 ERA) takes the mound Friday in Philadelphia against RHP Spencer Turnbull (1-0, 1.80).

Royals and White Sox split doubleheader 

The 19th ranked Barton Community College men's golf team got off to a good start Monday at the north course of Wichita' Crestview Country Club but slipped in its final two rounds to conclude the Jayhawk Tournament No. 2 Meet in fourth place for the second consecutive outing.

The Cougars fired a combined 7-over 295 in the morning round, following with an afternoon card of 13-over 301 to hold a three-stroke lead for 3rd place over 22nd ranked Garden City. On Tuesday the Cougars' worst round of 24-over 312 was caught by the Broncbusters' closing 305 in slipping to the fourth spot by four strokes at 44-over 908.

5th ranked Hutchinson won its second straight conference meet by carding a 2-over 866 for an eight stroke win over 9th ranked Dodge City's 10-over 876.

The eight competing teams will reconvene April 22-23 for the KJCCC Championships held at Newton's Sand Creek Station Golf Course.

Solidifying his ranking as one of the top five KJCCC golfers this season, Axel Bolander led the field after Monday morning's opening round with a 3-under 69. Slipping to fourth with an afternoon even-par round, the sophomore finished in the same 4th placing on Tuesday with a 3-over 75 for an accumulated even-par 216.

Barton had two players in the top twenty of 52-man field with Kaleb Lambert next in line with a 14th placing at 10-over 226. The freshman posted a three-round low of 2-over 74 in his first time around the course before following with twin 4-over 76 cards. Worathan Thammachokecharoen posted rounds of 76 and 75 on Monday with a concluding 6-over 78 to finish in a tie for 19th at 13-over 229.

Tied for the 29th position, Thantup Saengvut had consistent 78 rounds on Monday before a final 83 card to finish a combined 23-over 239. Tanapoom Kaewjoey was in 25th after day one's 76 and 78 rounds but slipped into a tie for 35th following Tuesday's 89 card to round out Barton's team entries on a combined 27-over 243.

Playing as an individual, Anthony Arriola started off in the 21st spot after an opening 4-over 76 with rounds of 82 and 84 ensuing to slide down to the 34th overall position with an accumulated 24-over 242.

T-19th Worathan Thammachokecharoen +13, 229 (76-75-78)

T-29th Thantup Saengvut +23, 239 (78-78-83)

T-35th Tanapoom Kaewjoey +27, 243 (76-78-89)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713351184565.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoThe 19th ranked Barton Community College men's golf team got off to a good start Monday at the north course of Wichita' Crestview Country Club but slipped in its final two rounds to conclude the Jayhawk Tournament No. 2 Meet in fourth place for the second consecutive outing.The Cougars fired a combined 7-over 295 in the morning round, following with an afternoon card of 13-over 301 to hold a three-stroke lead for 3rd place over 22nd ranked Garden City. On Tuesday the Cougars' worst round of 24-over 312 was caught by the Broncbusters' closing 305 in slipping to the fourth spot by four strokes at 44-over 908.5th ranked Hutchinson won its second straight conference meet by carding a 2-over 866 for an eight stroke win over 9th ranked Dodge City's 10-over 876.The eight competing teams will reconvene April 22-23 for the KJCCC Championships held at Newton's Sand Creek Station Golf Course.Solidifying his ranking as one of the top five KJCCC golfers this season, Axel Bolander led the field after Monday morning's opening round with a 3-under 69. Slipping to fourth with an afternoon even-par round, the sophomore finished in the same 4th placing on Tuesday with a 3-over 75 for an accumulated even-par 216.Barton had two players in the top twenty of 52-man field with Kaleb Lambert next in line with a 14th placing at 10-over 226. The freshman posted a three-round low of 2-over 74 in his first time around the course before following with twin 4-over 76 cards. Worathan Thammachokecharoen posted rounds of 76 and 75 on Monday with a concluding 6-over 78 to finish in a tie for 19th at 13-over 229.Tied for the 29th position, Thantup Saengvut had consistent 78 rounds on Monday before a final 83 card to finish a combined 23-over 239. Tanapoom Kaewjoey was in 25th after day one's 76 and 78 rounds but slipped into a tie for 35th following Tuesday's 89 card to round out Barton's team entries on a combined 27-over 243.Playing as an individual, Anthony Arriola started off in the 21st spot after an opening 4-over 76 with rounds of 82 and 84 ensuing to slide down to the 34th overall position with an accumulated 24-over 242.Barton Individual/Team Results:4th Axel Bolander E, 216 (69-72-75)14th Kaleb Lambert +10, 226 (74-76-76)T-19th Worathan Thammachokecharoen +13, 229 (76-75-78)T-29th Thantup Saengvut +23, 239 (78-78-83)T-35th Tanapoom Kaewjoey +27, 243 (76-78-89)Barton Individual Results:34th Anthony Arriola +26, 242 (76-82-84)

Final round drops 19th ranked Barton men's golf to fourth

By BRAND SMITH Barton Sports Info

Fresh off a 20-run output in Saturday's series finale, the Barton Community College baseball team kept the offensive momentum rolling into Tuesday afternoon's non-conference matchup with 15th ranked Cowley College to win by a score of 21-18 at Lawson-Biggs Field.

Earning their 30th win of the season and completing the home-and-away two-game sweep, the Cougars improve to 30-14 overall while the Tigers have their four-game winning streak snapped dropping to 30-13 overall.

Hitting their conference bye week, Barton will conclude a five game homestand with the opening two of a four game non-conference tilt against the Red Ravens of Coffeyville Community College. First pitch scheduled for 1:00 p.m. from Lawson-Biggs Field with the series concluding Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. from Walter Johnson Park.

Benefitting behind a 30-mph gust blowing out to right center, the Cougars pounded out 16 hits including seven for extra bases with four leaving the yard. Barton scored in 6 of its 8-offensive innings, which included a 12 run third inning.

Jaron Cotton and Hank Orr combined for nine of Barton's 19 RBIs.

Cotton went 3 for 4 with five RBIs hitting a key three-run home run in the Cougars 12-run third inning for his seven-round tripper of the year, while adding a double and run producing single in the eighth.

Orr was 2 for 5 with a career high four RBIs, with a two-run single in the third inning and two-run fourth inning home run for his collegiate first building Barton's lead to a largest of 16-6 in the fourth.

8 of 9 Cougar starters had at least one hit and 6 of 9 players with multiple hits.

Kyler Horsman and Brock Howard had Barton's other two round trippers going back-to-back in the fifth inning.

Horsman launched his second fence clearer in as many games plating a pair in the three run fifth inning. The freshman went 2 for 5 from the plate with a double and three-RBIs before going to the mound to lock down his second save of the season tossing the final two scoreless innings with a walk and four strikeouts.

Howard finished 1 for 4 at the plate distributing his collegiate first fence clearer to conclude the three run fifth inning.

Extending his hitting streak to 14-straight, Owen Clyne turned in his 16th multi-hit game of the season with three hits, two runs and three runs batted in for his second straight 3-RBI game. Clyne added a double.

Owen Bailey, Cole Schieffer and Hunter Seier each added RBIs.

Scoring three runs and going 2 for 5 at the plate for his 27th multi-hit game, Robby Bolin extended his hitting streak to 13-straight games.

Seven pitchers were used by the Cougars. Preston Golden (4-0) was credited with the win going 0.2-innings of relief allowing five runs, four earned off four hits and a walk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713351041372.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRAND SMITH Barton Sports InfoFresh off a 20-run output in Saturday's series finale, the Barton Community College baseball team kept the offensive momentum rolling into Tuesday afternoon's non-conference matchup with 15th ranked Cowley College to win by a score of 21-18 at Lawson-Biggs Field.Earning their 30th win of the season and completing the home-and-away two-game sweep, the Cougars improve to 30-14 overall while the Tigers have their four-game winning streak snapped dropping to 30-13 overall.Hitting their conference bye week, Barton will conclude a five game homestand with the opening two of a four game non-conference tilt against the Red Ravens of Coffeyville Community College. First pitch scheduled for 1:00 p.m. from Lawson-Biggs Field with the series concluding Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. from Walter Johnson Park.Benefitting behind a 30-mph gust blowing out to right center, the Cougars pounded out 16 hits including seven for extra bases with four leaving the yard. Barton scored in 6 of its 8-offensive innings, which included a 12 run third inning.Jaron Cotton and Hank Orr combined for nine of Barton's 19 RBIs.Cotton went 3 for 4 with five RBIs hitting a key three-run home run in the Cougars 12-run third inning for his seven-round tripper of the year, while adding a double and run producing single in the eighth.Orr was 2 for 5 with a career high four RBIs, with a two-run single in the third inning and two-run fourth inning home run for his collegiate first building Barton's lead to a largest of 16-6 in the fourth.8 of 9 Cougar starters had at least one hit and 6 of 9 players with multiple hits.Kyler Horsman and Brock Howard had Barton's other two round trippers going back-to-back in the fifth inning.Horsman launched his second fence clearer in as many games plating a pair in the three run fifth inning. The freshman went 2 for 5 from the plate with a double and three-RBIs before going to the mound to lock down his second save of the season tossing the final two scoreless innings with a walk and four strikeouts.Howard finished 1 for 4 at the plate distributing his collegiate first fence clearer to conclude the three run fifth inning.Extending his hitting streak to 14-straight, Owen Clyne turned in his 16th multi-hit game of the season with three hits, two runs and three runs batted in for his second straight 3-RBI game. Clyne added a double.Owen Bailey, Cole Schieffer and Hunter Seier each added RBIs.Scoring three runs and going 2 for 5 at the plate for his 27th multi-hit game, Robby Bolin extended his hitting streak to 13-straight games.Seven pitchers were used by the Cougars. Preston Golden (4-0) was credited with the win going 0.2-innings of relief allowing five runs, four earned off four hits and a walk.

Cougar bats pile up 21-runs to knock of 15th ranked Cowley

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29.

“I am excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2024 draft while maintaining my college eligibility,” Furphy said. “I am so grateful to Coach Self and the whole team at KU for the opportunity they gave me to be a part of this incredible program. From moving to a new country, to participating in the NCAA Tournament, this year has flown by faster than I could have ever imagined.

“I love my teammates and am so proud of everything we accomplished this season. Everyone at Kansas has made me feel at home.

“What I have learned at Kansas has changed the way I think about basketball, and no matter what happens from here, I’ll always be a Jayhawk.

A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.

“Being 22 hours from home, Johnny took a big leap to come play at Kansas,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He had a solid freshman year and really had a terrific second half of the season. He is a fan favorite. He wants to test the NBA draft process and we encourage him to do just that.”

Earlier this month, Furphy was named to the Australian Boomers team and will be competing for a roster spot on the Australian Team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.

Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713350938232.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29.“I am excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2024 draft while maintaining my college eligibility,” Furphy said. “I am so grateful to Coach Self and the whole team at KU for the opportunity they gave me to be a part of this incredible program. From moving to a new country, to participating in the NCAA Tournament, this year has flown by faster than I could have ever imagined.“I love my teammates and am so proud of everything we accomplished this season. Everyone at Kansas has made me feel at home.“What I have learned at Kansas has changed the way I think about basketball, and no matter what happens from here, I’ll always be a Jayhawk.Thank you and Rock Chalk!”A 2024 Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection, Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.“Being 22 hours from home, Johnny took a big leap to come play at Kansas,” KU head coach Bill Self said. “He had a solid freshman year and really had a terrific second half of the season. He is a fan favorite. He wants to test the NBA draft process and we encourage him to do just that.”Earlier this month, Furphy was named to the Australian Boomers team and will be competing for a roster spot on the Australian Team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.In early July, the 22-member Boomers team will be cut down to 12 to represent Australia at the Olympics, July 26 – August 11 in Paris. Ten members from Australia’s 2020 bronze medal team at the Tokyo Olympics are also vying to make the 2024 squad.Furphy is vying to become the first Kansas player since Sasha Kaun to participate in the Olympic Games. Kaun won a bronze medal while representing Russia in the 2012 Olympics in London.

Furphy Declares for the NBA Draft

CHICAGO (AP) — The
Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been
postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon
as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in
the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan
Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league
debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City
right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch
in the second game.

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP)
— Lance Lynn earned his first win for the St. Louis Cardinals in
seven years, a 3-2 victory over the Athletics before a season-low
crowd of 3,296 at the Oakland Coliseum. Lynn allowed two runs _ one
earned _ and five hits in seven innings, lowering his ERA to 2.18 in
four starts. The 36-year-old right-hander went 72-47 for the
Cardinals from 2011-17. After pitching for five other teams, he
returned to St. Louis during the offseason for an $11 million,
one-year contract. JoJo Romero and Ryan Helsley each got three
straight outs, with Helsley earning his major league-leading seventh
save.

PHOENIX (AP) — An
Arizona woman who accused former major league pitcher Trevor Bauer of
sexual assault has been charged with defrauding the baseball player.
An indictment unsealed Monday in Maricopa County Superior Court names
Bauer as one of two victims. It charges the woman with felony fraud
and theft by extortion but doesn’t provide specific details about
the alleged scheme. The woman sued Bauer in 2022 and accused him of
rape two years earlier. Bauer has never been arrested or charged and
said Tuesday in a video statement that he is innocent. Bauer was
released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023 and has been
trying to revive his major league career.

LAWRENCE, Kan. –
Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has
declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility
while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can
participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29. A 2024
Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection,
Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this
past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native
started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and
averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led
Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) —
LeBron James had 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds, and the
Los Angeles Lakers secured a playoff berth with a 110-106 victory
over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in
tournament. Zion Williamson had 40 points and 11 rebounds in his NBA
postseason debut. But shortly after tying the game at 95 on a driving
layup with 3:19 to go, Williamson went to the locker room, throwing a
towel to the floor in disgust as he walked into the tunnel with an
unspecified leg injury. Pelicans coach Willie Green said Williamson
had “left leg soreness.” Anthony Davis had 20 points and 15
rebounds. De'Angelo Russell scored 21, hitting five 3-pointers. The
Lakers open the playoffs Saturday at Denver.

SACRAMENTO, Calif.
(AP) — Keegan Murray scored 32 points, De’Aaron Fox added 24 and
the Sacramento Kings stayed alive in the play-in tournament,
eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 118-94 victory.
Sacramento advanced to play at New Orleans on Friday night with a
chance to return to the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Western
Conference after snapping an NBA record 16-year playoff drought last
season. The loss kept Golden State out of the playoffs for the third
time in the past five seasons, including two eliminations in the
play-in tournament.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Joel Embiid is again dealing with injuries headed into the NBA
playoffs. Embiid tweaked his surgically-repaired left knee last week
and sat out the regular-season finale. Sixers coach Nick Nurse
remained hopeful that Embiid would be ready to start Wednesday in the
NBA play-in tournament game against Miami. The 76ers finished 31-8
this season with Embiid and a woeful 16-27 without him. The Sixers
would earn the No. 7 seed and play the New York Knicks in the first
round if they beat the Heat. A loss would mean they have to win the
next play-in game on Friday to clinch the No. 8 seed.

PROVO, Utah (AP) —
BYU has hired Phoenix Suns associate head coach Kevin Young to
replace Mark Pope, who left to coach Kentucky. BYU athletic director
Tom Holmoe announced the hiring on Tuesday. Young will continue to
coach with the Suns during the NBA playoffs before joining BYU, but
he will work on retaining current players, contacting recruits and
assembling a coaching staff during the playoffs. This is Young’s
first head coaching job at the NCAA Division I level. The Salt Lake
City native spent eight seasons coaching in the NBA G-League.

UNDATED (AP) —
Oregon State running back Damien Martinez, Miami running back Henry
Parrish and Pitt defensive end Dayon Hayes entered the transfer
portal as the 14-day spring window opened for college football
players. Offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor was back in the portal and
expected to return to Alabama after leaving the Crimson Tide and
briefly transferring to Iowa following the retirement for coach Nick
Saban. Martinez was the most high-profile player to make his intent
to transfer official. The all-Pac-12 player publicly indicated he
planned to enter the portal last week.

UNDATED (AP) —
Travis Kelce is bulking up his resume off the football field. The
Kansas City Chief tight-end has been named the host of “Are You
Smarter Than a Celebrity?” for Prime Video, the streaming service
confirmed Tuesday. It's a twist on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th
Grader?” Filming on the 20-episode season is already completed. On
Kelce's show, an adult contestant will be given 11 5th grade-level
questions to answer — and they can get assistance from a classroom
of celebrities. The final question from a 6th grade-curriculum is
worth $100,000. In a statement, Kelce said he is excited about the
opportunity.

TUESDAY SCORES MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL INTERLEAGUE

Kansas City	at	Chi
White Sox	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712497619824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — The
Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been
postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon
as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in
the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan
Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league
debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City
right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch
in the second game.OAKLAND, Calif. (AP)
— Lance Lynn earned his first win for the St. Louis Cardinals in
seven years, a 3-2 victory over the Athletics before a season-low
crowd of 3,296 at the Oakland Coliseum. Lynn allowed two runs _ one
earned _ and five hits in seven innings, lowering his ERA to 2.18 in
four starts. The 36-year-old right-hander went 72-47 for the
Cardinals from 2011-17. After pitching for five other teams, he
returned to St. Louis during the offseason for an $11 million,
one-year contract. JoJo Romero and Ryan Helsley each got three
straight outs, with Helsley earning his major league-leading seventh
save.PHOENIX (AP) — An
Arizona woman who accused former major league pitcher Trevor Bauer of
sexual assault has been charged with defrauding the baseball player.
An indictment unsealed Monday in Maricopa County Superior Court names
Bauer as one of two victims. It charges the woman with felony fraud
and theft by extortion but doesn’t provide specific details about
the alleged scheme. The woman sued Bauer in 2022 and accused him of
rape two years earlier. Bauer has never been arrested or charged and
said Tuesday in a video statement that he is innocent. Bauer was
released by the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023 and has been
trying to revive his major league career.LAWRENCE, Kan. –
Kansas freshman guard Johnny Furphy has announced that he has
declared for the 2024 NBA Draft. Furphy will retain NCAA eligibility
while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can
participate in the NBA Draft process if withdrawn by May 29. A 2024
Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection,
Furphy averaged 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for Kansas this
past season. The 6-foot-9, 202 pound, Melbourne, Australia, native
started 19 games, including 18 of the last 19 contests, for KU and
averaged 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in Big 12 play. Furphy led
Kansas with 44 three-point field goals made last season.NEW ORLEANS (AP) —
LeBron James had 23 points, nine assists and nine rebounds, and the
Los Angeles Lakers secured a playoff berth with a 110-106 victory
over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in
tournament. Zion Williamson had 40 points and 11 rebounds in his NBA
postseason debut. But shortly after tying the game at 95 on a driving
layup with 3:19 to go, Williamson went to the locker room, throwing a
towel to the floor in disgust as he walked into the tunnel with an
unspecified leg injury. Pelicans coach Willie Green said Williamson
had “left leg soreness.” Anthony Davis had 20 points and 15
rebounds. De'Angelo Russell scored 21, hitting five 3-pointers. The
Lakers open the playoffs Saturday at Denver.SACRAMENTO, Calif.
(AP) — Keegan Murray scored 32 points, De’Aaron Fox added 24 and
the Sacramento Kings stayed alive in the play-in tournament,
eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a 118-94 victory.
Sacramento advanced to play at New Orleans on Friday night with a
chance to return to the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Western
Conference after snapping an NBA record 16-year playoff drought last
season. The loss kept Golden State out of the playoffs for the third
time in the past five seasons, including two eliminations in the
play-in tournament.PHILADELPHIA (AP) —
Joel Embiid is again dealing with injuries headed into the NBA
playoffs. Embiid tweaked his surgically-repaired left knee last week
and sat out the regular-season finale. Sixers coach Nick Nurse
remained hopeful that Embiid would be ready to start Wednesday in the
NBA play-in tournament game against Miami. The 76ers finished 31-8
this season with Embiid and a woeful 16-27 without him. The Sixers
would earn the No. 7 seed and play the New York Knicks in the first
round if they beat the Heat. A loss would mean they have to win the
next play-in game on Friday to clinch the No. 8 seed.PROVO, Utah (AP) —
BYU has hired Phoenix Suns associate head coach Kevin Young to
replace Mark Pope, who left to coach Kentucky. BYU athletic director
Tom Holmoe announced the hiring on Tuesday. Young will continue to
coach with the Suns during the NBA playoffs before joining BYU, but
he will work on retaining current players, contacting recruits and
assembling a coaching staff during the playoffs. This is Young’s
first head coaching job at the NCAA Division I level. The Salt Lake
City native spent eight seasons coaching in the NBA G-League.UNDATED (AP) —
Oregon State running back Damien Martinez, Miami running back Henry
Parrish and Pitt defensive end Dayon Hayes entered the transfer
portal as the 14-day spring window opened for college football
players. Offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor was back in the portal and
expected to return to Alabama after leaving the Crimson Tide and
briefly transferring to Iowa following the retirement for coach Nick
Saban. Martinez was the most high-profile player to make his intent
to transfer official. The all-Pac-12 player publicly indicated he
planned to enter the portal last week.UNDATED (AP) —
Travis Kelce is bulking up his resume off the football field. The
Kansas City Chief tight-end has been named the host of “Are You
Smarter Than a Celebrity?” for Prime Video, the streaming service
confirmed Tuesday. It's a twist on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th
Grader?” Filming on the 20-episode season is already completed. On
Kelce's show, an adult contestant will be given 11 5th grade-level
questions to answer — and they can get assistance from a classroom
of celebrities. The final question from a 6th grade-curriculum is
worth $100,000. In a statement, Kelce said he is excited about the
opportunity.TUESDAY SCORES MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL INTERLEAGUEFinal	Atlanta	6	Houston	2	Final	St.
Louis	3	Oakland	2	Final	Seattle	3	Cincinnati	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEKansas City	at	Chi
White Sox	5:40 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Detroit	4	Texas	2	Final	Baltimore	11	Minnesota	3	Final	Toronto	5	N.Y.
Yankees	4	Final	Tampa
Bay	7	L.A. Angels	6	Final	Cleveland	10	Boston	7	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Philadelphia	5	Colorado	0	Final	Miami	6	San
Francisco	3	Final	N.Y.
Mets	3	Pittsburgh	1	Final	San
Diego	6	Milwaukee	3	Final	L.A.
Dodgers	6	Washington	2	Final	Arizona	12	Chicago
Cubs	11	NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	L.A.
Lakers	110	New Orleans	106	Final	Sacramento	118	Golden
State	94	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUEFinal	Columbus	6	Carolina	3	Final	Ottawa	3	Boston	1	Final	Washington	2	Philadelphia	1	Final
SO	Detroit	5	Montreal	4	Final	Florida	5	Toronto	2	Final	Winnipeg	4	Seattle	3	Final	Vegas	3	Chicago	1	Final	Vancouver	4	Calgary	1

Wednesday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

The winds canceled softball action in Hays Tuesday, but the Panther baseball team, playing further east in McPherson, was able to open up the McPherson quad with a pair of wins. No. 9 Great Bend used a big sixth inning to drop Emporia 14-4, then took down sixth-ranked McPherson (4A) 3-1.&nbsp;

The Panthers jumped out to a 2-0 lead after one inning against Emporia, and the lead grew to 3-0 after three innings. Both teams plated four runs in the fourth and a run in the fifth to keep the game competitive at 7-4 into the sixth.

Great Bend made quick work of Emporia in the top of the sixth, then the Panther bats exploded for seven runs in the bottom of the sixth, highlighted by a grand slam from Trenton Kern. Owen Kaiser and Ian Premer followed a Carson Umphres double to load the bases for Kern. His blast to center field pushed the Panther lead to 11-4 with one out. The bases were again loaded with two outs when Koehn Ribordy singled in Hunter Herrman and Peyden Oelger. Another double from Umphres scored JJ Grove to end the game early.

Eight of the nine Panther batters combined for 17 hits. Umphes went 4-for-4 with three doubles and a walk, driving in two and scoring three times. Grove and Daxton Minton each singled three times. Ribordy doubled and singled for three RBIs, and Herrman singled twice and scored twice. Kern's lone hit provided four RBIs and a run.

Umphres pitched all six innings for the win, striking out seven and allowing two earned runs on four hits.

The Panthers used another big sixth inning to sneak by McPherson in game two. The Bullpups scored a run in the fourth and held a 1-0 lead into the bottom of the sixth.

Ribordy opened the sixth with a double, and walks from Umphres and Premer loaded the bases with no outs. Kaiser went hitless in game one but drew a pair of walks. His walk in the sixth inning of game two tied the game 1-1. Kern followed with a 2-run single for what proved to be the game-winning hit.

Herrman finished with a pair of singles in the win. Ribordy doubled for his lone hit, and Kern finished with the two RBIs on his single.

Kaiser picked up the win on the mound, throwing the final two innings and striking out four while allowing just one hit. Herrman pitched the middle 2.1 innings, walking six, striking out two, and allowing just one hit. Minton threw the first 2.2 innings, striking out one and allowing an earned run on three hits.

Great Bend moves to 10-3 on the season. The Panthers return to McPherson Friday to play No. 4 St. Thomas Aquinas at 3 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673886244015.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post SportsThe winds canceled softball action in Hays Tuesday, but the Panther baseball team, playing further east in McPherson, was able to open up the McPherson quad with a pair of wins. No. 9 Great Bend used a big sixth inning to drop Emporia 14-4, then took down sixth-ranked McPherson (4A) 3-1.&nbsp;The Panthers jumped out to a 2-0 lead after one inning against Emporia, and the lead grew to 3-0 after three innings. Both teams plated four runs in the fourth and a run in the fifth to keep the game competitive at 7-4 into the sixth.Great Bend made quick work of Emporia in the top of the sixth, then the Panther bats exploded for seven runs in the bottom of the sixth, highlighted by a grand slam from Trenton Kern. Owen Kaiser and Ian Premer followed a Carson Umphres double to load the bases for Kern. His blast to center field pushed the Panther lead to 11-4 with one out. The bases were again loaded with two outs when Koehn Ribordy singled in Hunter Herrman and Peyden Oelger. Another double from Umphres scored JJ Grove to end the game early.Eight of the nine Panther batters combined for 17 hits. Umphes went 4-for-4 with three doubles and a walk, driving in two and scoring three times. Grove and Daxton Minton each singled three times. Ribordy doubled and singled for three RBIs, and Herrman singled twice and scored twice. Kern's lone hit provided four RBIs and a run.Umphres pitched all six innings for the win, striking out seven and allowing two earned runs on four hits.The Panthers used another big sixth inning to sneak by McPherson in game two. The Bullpups scored a run in the fourth and held a 1-0 lead into the bottom of the sixth.Ribordy opened the sixth with a double, and walks from Umphres and Premer loaded the bases with no outs. Kaiser went hitless in game one but drew a pair of walks. His walk in the sixth inning of game two tied the game 1-1. Kern followed with a 2-run single for what proved to be the game-winning hit.Herrman finished with a pair of singles in the win. Ribordy doubled for his lone hit, and Kern finished with the two RBIs on his single.Kaiser picked up the win on the mound, throwing the final two innings and striking out four while allowing just one hit. Herrman pitched the middle 2.1 innings, walking six, striking out two, and allowing just one hit. Minton threw the first 2.2 innings, striking out one and allowing an earned run on three hits.Great Bend moves to 10-3 on the season. The Panthers return to McPherson Friday to play No. 4 St. Thomas Aquinas at 3 p.m.

Panther baseball takes first two at McPherson quad

CHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch in the second game.

CHICAGO (AP) — The Kansas City Royals’ game at the Chicago White Sox has been postponed because of rain. It will be made up on Wednesday afternoon as part of a straight doubleheader. Kansas City beat Chicago 2-0 in the series opener on Monday night. White Sox right-hander Jonathan Cannon takes the mound in the doubleheader opener for his big league debut. Right-hander Brady Singer starts for the Royals. Kansas City right-hander Michael Wacha and Chicago right-hander Erick Fedde pitch in the second game.

Royals at White Sox game has been postponed by rain

By ALICIA RANCILIO Associated Press

Travis Kelce's NFL off-season with the Kansas City Chiefs has been a busy one.

The Super Bowl LVIII-winning tight end is the host of a new game show called “Are You Smarter than a Celebrity?” for Prime Video, the streaming service confirmed Tuesday. Filming for the 20-episode season has already completed.

The premise is a twist on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?", which debuted on Fox in 2007 and was hosted by Jeff Foxworthy. It also aired in syndication. John Cena hosted a 2019 revival for Nickelodeon.

In Kelce's show, an adult contestant will be given 11 elementary-level questions where they can ask a classroom of various celebrities for help answering. The final question is from the 6th grade curriculum and is worth $100,000. Only one celebrity is allowed to talk through the answer to the last question with the contestant.

Kelce, who is dating music superstar Taylor Swift, said in a statement he grew up watching game shows and is “excited to be following in the footsteps of so many TV icons.”

This isn't Kelce's first TV gig. He starred in his own 2016 dating competition show for E! called “Catching Kelce" and hosted an episode of “Saturday Night Live” last year.

By ALICIA RANCILIO Associated PressTravis Kelce's NFL off-season with the Kansas City Chiefs has been a busy one.The Super Bowl LVIII-winning tight end is the host of a new game show called “Are You Smarter than a Celebrity?” for Prime Video, the streaming service confirmed Tuesday. Filming for the 20-episode season has already completed.The premise is a twist on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?", which debuted on Fox in 2007 and was hosted by Jeff Foxworthy. It also aired in syndication. John Cena hosted a 2019 revival for Nickelodeon.In Kelce's show, an adult contestant will be given 11 elementary-level questions where they can ask a classroom of various celebrities for help answering. The final question is from the 6th grade curriculum and is worth $100,000. Only one celebrity is allowed to talk through the answer to the last question with the contestant.Kelce, who is dating music superstar Taylor Swift, said in a statement he grew up watching game shows and is “excited to be following in the footsteps of so many TV icons.”This isn't Kelce's first TV gig. He starred in his own 2016 dating competition show for E! called “Catching Kelce" and hosted an episode of “Saturday Night Live” last year.

Travis Kelce named host of 'Are You Smarter than a Celebrity?'

- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Panther Sports

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1foeWUJPhBo?si=PuFzmC8wLCU3DOfb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- "Voice of the Cougars" Cole Reif- Barton Softball coach Carson Dubose- Mike Courson goes "On the Prowl" for Panther Sports- Tuesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Tuesday on Sports Day (Watch) 

NEW YORK (AP) — Whitey Herzog, the gruff and ingenious Hall of Fame manager who guided the St. Louis Cardinals to three pennants and a World Series title in the 1980s and perfected an intricate, nail-biting strategy known as "Whiteyball," has died. He was 92.

Cardinals spokesman Brian Bartow said Tuesday the team had been informed of his death by Herzog's family. The team was not yet sure whether it happened Monday night or Tuesday. Herzog had been at Busch Stadium on April 4 for the Cardinals' home opener.

A crew-cut, pot-bellied tobacco chewer who had no patience for the "buddy-buddy" school of management, Herzog joined the Cardinals in 1980 and helped end the team's decade-plus pennant drought by adapting it to the artificial surface and distant fences of Busch Memorial Stadium. A typical Cardinals victory under Herzog was a low-scoring, 1-run game, sealed in the final innings by a “bullpen by committee,” relievers who might be replaced after a single pitch, or temporarily shifted to the outfield, then brought back to the mound.

The Cardinals had power hitters in George Hendrick and Jack Clark, but they mostly relied on the speed and resourcefulness of switch-hitters Vince Coleman and Willie McGee, the acrobat fielding of shortstop and future Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and the effective pitching of starters such as John Tudor and Danny Cox and relievers Todd Worrell, Ken Dayley and Jeff Lahti. For the '82 champions, Herzog didn't bother rotating relievers, but simply brought in future Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter to finish the job.

"They (the media) seemed to think there was something wrong with the way we played baseball, with speed and defense and line-drive hitters," Herzog wrote in his memoir "White Rat: A Life in Baseball," published in 1987. "They called it 'Whiteyball' and said it couldn't last."

Under Herzog, the Cards won pennants in 1982, 1985 and 1987, and the World Series in 1982, when they edged the Milwaukee Brewers in seven games. Herzog managed the Kansas City Royals to division titles in 1976-78, but they lost each time in the league championship to the New York Yankees.

Overall, Herzog was a manager for 18 seasons, compiling a record of 1,281 wins and 1,125 losses. He was named Manager of the Year in 1985 and voted into the Hall by the Veterans Committee in 2010, his plaque noting his "stern, yet good-natured style," and his emphasis on speed, pitching and defense. Just before he formally entered the Hall, the Cardinals retired his uniform number, 24.

When asked about the secrets of managing, he would reply a sense of humor and a good bullpen.

Dorrel Norman Elvert Herzog was born in New Athens, Illinois, a blue-collar community that would shape him long after he left. He excelled in baseball and basketball and was open to skipping the occasional class to take in a Cardinals game. Signed up by the Yankees, he was a center fielder who discovered that he had competition from a prospect born just weeks before him, Mickey Mantle.

Herzog never played for the Yankees, but he did get to know manager Casey Stengel, another master shuffler of players who became a key influence. The light-haired Herzog was named "The White Rat" because of his resemblance to Yankees pitcher Bob "The White Rat" Kuzava.

Like so many successful managers, Herzog was a mediocre player, batting just .257 over eight seasons and playing several positions. His best year was with Baltimore in 1961, when he hit .291. He also played for the Washington Senators, Kansas City Athletics and Detroit Tigers, with whom he ended his playing career, in 1963.

"Baseball has been good to me since I quit trying to play it," he liked to say.

After working as a scout and coach, Herzog was hired in 1967 by the New York Mets as director of player development, with Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan among the future stars he helped bring along. The Mets liked him well enough to designate him the successor to Gil Hodges, but when the manager died suddenly in 1972 the job went to Yogi Berra. Herzog instead debuted with the Texas Rangers the following season, finishing just 47-91 before being replaced by Billy Martin. He managed the Angels for a few games in 1974 and joined the Royals the following season, his time with Kansas City peaking in 1977 when the team finished 102-60.

Many players spoke warmly of Herzog, but he didn’t hesitate to rid his teams of those he no longer wanted, dumping such Cardinals stars as outfielder Lonnie Smith and starting pitcher Joaquin Andujar. One trade worked out brilliantly: Before the 1982 season, he exchanged .300 hitting shortstop Garry Templeton, whom Herzog had chastised for not hustling, for the Padres' light-hitting Ozzie Smith, now widely regarded as the best defensive shortstop in history. Another deal was less far successful: Gold Glove first baseman Keith Hernandez, with whom Herzog had feuded, to the Mets in the middle of 1983 for pitchers Neil Allen and Rick Ownbey. Hernandez led New York to the World Series title in 1986, while Allen and Ownbey were soon forgotten.

Herzog was just as tough on himself, resigning in the middle of 1990 because he was “embarrassed” by the team’s 33-47 record. He served as a consultant and general manager for the Angels in the early '90s and briefly considered managing the Red Sox before the 1997 season.

If the '82 championship was the highlight of his career, his greatest blow was the '85 series. The Cardinals were up 3 games to 2 against his former team, the Royals, and in Game 6 led 1-0 going into the bottom of the ninth, with Worrell brought in to finish the job.

Jorge Orta led off and grounded a 0-2 pitch between the mound and first base. In one of the most famous blown calls in baseball history, he was ruled safe by umpire Don Denkinger, even though replays showed first baseman Jack Clark's toss to Worrell was in time. The Cardinals never recovered. Kansas City rallied for two runs to tie the series and crushed the Cards 11-0 in Game 7.

"No, I'm not bitter at Denkinger," Herzog told the AP years later. "He's a good guy, he knows he made a mistake, and he's a human being. It happened at an inopportune time but I do think they ought to have instant replay in the playoffs and World Series."

As if testing Herzog's humor, the Hall inducted him alongside an umpire, Doug Harvey.

"I don't know why he should get in," Herzog joked at the time. "Doug kicked me out of more games than any other umpire."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713282597678.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Whitey Herzog, the gruff and ingenious Hall of Fame manager who guided the St. Louis Cardinals to three pennants and a World Series title in the 1980s and perfected an intricate, nail-biting strategy known as "Whiteyball," has died. He was 92.Cardinals spokesman Brian Bartow said Tuesday the team had been informed of his death by Herzog's family. The team was not yet sure whether it happened Monday night or Tuesday. Herzog had been at Busch Stadium on April 4 for the Cardinals' home opener.A crew-cut, pot-bellied tobacco chewer who had no patience for the "buddy-buddy" school of management, Herzog joined the Cardinals in 1980 and helped end the team's decade-plus pennant drought by adapting it to the artificial surface and distant fences of Busch Memorial Stadium. A typical Cardinals victory under Herzog was a low-scoring, 1-run game, sealed in the final innings by a “bullpen by committee,” relievers who might be replaced after a single pitch, or temporarily shifted to the outfield, then brought back to the mound.The Cardinals had power hitters in George Hendrick and Jack Clark, but they mostly relied on the speed and resourcefulness of switch-hitters Vince Coleman and Willie McGee, the acrobat fielding of shortstop and future Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith and the effective pitching of starters such as John Tudor and Danny Cox and relievers Todd Worrell, Ken Dayley and Jeff Lahti. For the '82 champions, Herzog didn't bother rotating relievers, but simply brought in future Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter to finish the job."They (the media) seemed to think there was something wrong with the way we played baseball, with speed and defense and line-drive hitters," Herzog wrote in his memoir "White Rat: A Life in Baseball," published in 1987. "They called it 'Whiteyball' and said it couldn't last."Under Herzog, the Cards won pennants in 1982, 1985 and 1987, and the World Series in 1982, when they edged the Milwaukee Brewers in seven games. Herzog managed the Kansas City Royals to division titles in 1976-78, but they lost each time in the league championship to the New York Yankees.Overall, Herzog was a manager for 18 seasons, compiling a record of 1,281 wins and 1,125 losses. He was named Manager of the Year in 1985 and voted into the Hall by the Veterans Committee in 2010, his plaque noting his "stern, yet good-natured style," and his emphasis on speed, pitching and defense. Just before he formally entered the Hall, the Cardinals retired his uniform number, 24.When asked about the secrets of managing, he would reply a sense of humor and a good bullpen.Dorrel Norman Elvert Herzog was born in New Athens, Illinois, a blue-collar community that would shape him long after he left. He excelled in baseball and basketball and was open to skipping the occasional class to take in a Cardinals game. Signed up by the Yankees, he was a center fielder who discovered that he had competition from a prospect born just weeks before him, Mickey Mantle.Herzog never played for the Yankees, but he did get to know manager Casey Stengel, another master shuffler of players who became a key influence. The light-haired Herzog was named "The White Rat" because of his resemblance to Yankees pitcher Bob "The White Rat" Kuzava.Like so many successful managers, Herzog was a mediocre player, batting just .257 over eight seasons and playing several positions. His best year was with Baltimore in 1961, when he hit .291. He also played for the Washington Senators, Kansas City Athletics and Detroit Tigers, with whom he ended his playing career, in 1963."Baseball has been good to me since I quit trying to play it," he liked to say.After working as a scout and coach, Herzog was hired in 1967 by the New York Mets as director of player development, with Tom Seaver and Nolan Ryan among the future stars he helped bring along. The Mets liked him well enough to designate him the successor to Gil Hodges, but when the manager died suddenly in 1972 the job went to Yogi Berra. Herzog instead debuted with the Texas Rangers the following season, finishing just 47-91 before being replaced by Billy Martin. He managed the Angels for a few games in 1974 and joined the Royals the following season, his time with Kansas City peaking in 1977 when the team finished 102-60.Many players spoke warmly of Herzog, but he didn’t hesitate to rid his teams of those he no longer wanted, dumping such Cardinals stars as outfielder Lonnie Smith and starting pitcher Joaquin Andujar. One trade worked out brilliantly: Before the 1982 season, he exchanged .300 hitting shortstop Garry Templeton, whom Herzog had chastised for not hustling, for the Padres' light-hitting Ozzie Smith, now widely regarded as the best defensive shortstop in history. Another deal was less far successful: Gold Glove first baseman Keith Hernandez, with whom Herzog had feuded, to the Mets in the middle of 1983 for pitchers Neil Allen and Rick Ownbey. Hernandez led New York to the World Series title in 1986, while Allen and Ownbey were soon forgotten.Herzog was just as tough on himself, resigning in the middle of 1990 because he was “embarrassed” by the team’s 33-47 record. He served as a consultant and general manager for the Angels in the early '90s and briefly considered managing the Red Sox before the 1997 season.If the '82 championship was the highlight of his career, his greatest blow was the '85 series. The Cardinals were up 3 games to 2 against his former team, the Royals, and in Game 6 led 1-0 going into the bottom of the ninth, with Worrell brought in to finish the job.Jorge Orta led off and grounded a 0-2 pitch between the mound and first base. In one of the most famous blown calls in baseball history, he was ruled safe by umpire Don Denkinger, even though replays showed first baseman Jack Clark's toss to Worrell was in time. The Cardinals never recovered. Kansas City rallied for two runs to tie the series and crushed the Cards 11-0 in Game 7."No, I'm not bitter at Denkinger," Herzog told the AP years later. "He's a good guy, he knows he made a mistake, and he's a human being. It happened at an inopportune time but I do think they ought to have instant replay in the playoffs and World Series."As if testing Herzog's humor, the Hall inducted him alongside an umpire, Doug Harvey."I don't know why he should get in," Herzog joked at the time. "Doug kicked me out of more games than any other umpire."

Legendary Cardinals and Royals manager Whitey Herzog dies at 92

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713244747501.jpeg" alt="trackranksgbpostweek3-2024.jpg" />
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Area track and field leaders through 4/15

The Barton Community College cheer and dance teams wrapped up its national competition Saturday at the 2024 NCA/NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships held in Daytona Beach, Florida.

All three of Barton's entries competed in the Junior College Division, the Dance squad improving from its preliminary round score in placing 3rd overall in Team Performance, Cheer with a slightly lower final round score to place 9th in the Intermediate Small Coed, and the Cougars' Hip Hop dance squad placing 7th in their competition.

Complete results from the 2024 NCA/NDA Championships found at: <a href="https://tv.varsity.com/events/11267612-2024-nca-nda-college-nationals/results">https://tv.varsity.com/events/11267612-2024-nca-nda-college-nationals/results</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713264282646.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoThe Barton Community College cheer and dance teams wrapped up its national competition Saturday at the 2024 NCA/NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships held in Daytona Beach, Florida.All three of Barton's entries competed in the Junior College Division, the Dance squad improving from its preliminary round score in placing 3rd overall in Team Performance, Cheer with a slightly lower final round score to place 9th in the Intermediate Small Coed, and the Cougars' Hip Hop dance squad placing 7th in their competition.Complete results from the 2024 NCA/NDA Championships found at: <a href="https://tv.varsity.com/events/11267612-2024-nca-nda-college-nationals/results">https://tv.varsity.com/events/11267612-2024-nca-nda-college-nationals/results</a>