By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Four solid sets of volleyball. The No. 10 Lady Panther volleyball team played host to Goddard and Hutchinson Thursday night, rarely being threatened in a pair of straight-set wins. Great Bend moves to 12-2 on the season.

"Our defense was there, our setting was there, hitting was there," said Lady Panther senior Cassie Ellegood. "It was definitely different than (Tuesday's win against Junction City)."

Great Bend def. Goddard 25-17, 25-15

The Ellegoods were big early with a kill from Cassie and a block from freshman Micah for an early 6-4 Panther lead. The Lions were hanging strong at 11-8 until a tip from sophomore Kya Behr put momentum in Great Bend's favor. Freshman Mikala Minton scored a pair of points at the net and Micah Ellegood added another tip as the Panther lead grew to 18-10. A deflection off Behr's shoulder set up match point and senior Kara Feist finished off the opening set at 25-17 with a big hit.

Cassie Ellegood put down three early kills in the second set, then sophomore Alex Mayers added an ace off the net for a quick 8-3 run. A pair of aces from Behr kept the lead at 12-6, then Cassie Ellegood showed off a little versatility with a block, a kill, an ace, and an otherwise strong service to set up match-point at 24-13.

"Service was so much better," said Lady Panther coach Shelly Duvall. "I think just confidence behind the line and serving aggressively made a big difference in our offense, for sure. It gave us a pretty big lead."

Goddard featured a trio of athletes, including three-year captain and big hitter Emerson Wedel and up-and-coming sophomore Kamille Turner. Great Bend kept their damage to a minimum on both sides of the net.

"I like it when they're at the net," Cassie Ellegood said. "When you get a block it's just that much more exciting and it hypes you up even more. It's fun when (Wedel) went in the back row. It still gives you that chance to block them in the back row and you still see them on the court and it keeps the competitiveness going."

Great Bend def. Hutchinson 25-11, 25-19

Cassie Ellegood was not slowed by the break between matches, coming out against the Salthawks with two kills and a block for a 4-1 score. Hutchinson got as close as 16-10 before Cassie did it again with two more blocks and two more spikes for a 22-11 Panther lead. Mayers added a late ace, and Behr and Cassie Ellegood each put down balls to finish the first set in short order 25-11.

Five Lady Panthers scored offensive points early on in set two, resulting in a quick 11-5 score. Mayers and Micah Ellegood split six of those first 11 points. The Salthawks were battling back at 14-11 when Behr and Cassie Ellegood both came up with back-to-back acrobatic saves to score a point. Hutchinson stayed around at 15-14 until Minton put down a pair of kills. Behr followed with a big serve and a spike to bump the gap to 19-15. The Salthawks never threatened again as Feist put down a kill, junior Ava Kaiser served up an ace, and Cassie Ellegood put down a final kill to set up match-point.

The Lady Panthers take a week off of competition before heading to Dodge City on Oct. 3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727398862775.jpeg" alt="Lady Panther sophomore Alex Mayers and Hutchinson junior Myka Thompson battle for a point atop the net during Thursday's match at GBHS." />
 <figcaption>Lady Panther sophomore Alex Mayers and Hutchinson junior Myka Thompson battle for a point atop the net during Thursday's match at GBHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFour solid sets of volleyball. The No. 10 Lady Panther volleyball team played host to Goddard and Hutchinson Thursday night, rarely being threatened in a pair of straight-set wins. Great Bend moves to 12-2 on the season."Our defense was there, our setting was there, hitting was there," said Lady Panther senior Cassie Ellegood. "It was definitely different than (Tuesday's win against Junction City)."Great Bend def. Goddard 25-17, 25-15The Ellegoods were big early with a kill from Cassie and a block from freshman Micah for an early 6-4 Panther lead. The Lions were hanging strong at 11-8 until a tip from sophomore Kya Behr put momentum in Great Bend's favor. Freshman Mikala Minton scored a pair of points at the net and Micah Ellegood added another tip as the Panther lead grew to 18-10. A deflection off Behr's shoulder set up match point and senior Kara Feist finished off the opening set at 25-17 with a big hit.Cassie Ellegood put down three early kills in the second set, then sophomore Alex Mayers added an ace off the net for a quick 8-3 run. A pair of aces from Behr kept the lead at 12-6, then Cassie Ellegood showed off a little versatility with a block, a kill, an ace, and an otherwise strong service to set up match-point at 24-13."Service was so much better," said Lady Panther coach Shelly Duvall. "I think just confidence behind the line and serving aggressively made a big difference in our offense, for sure. It gave us a pretty big lead."Goddard featured a trio of athletes, including three-year captain and big hitter Emerson Wedel and up-and-coming sophomore Kamille Turner. Great Bend kept their damage to a minimum on both sides of the net."I like it when they're at the net," Cassie Ellegood said. "When you get a block it's just that much more exciting and it hypes you up even more. It's fun when (Wedel) went in the back row. It still gives you that chance to block them in the back row and you still see them on the court and it keeps the competitiveness going."Great Bend def. Hutchinson 25-11, 25-19Cassie Ellegood was not slowed by the break between matches, coming out against the Salthawks with two kills and a block for a 4-1 score. Hutchinson got as close as 16-10 before Cassie did it again with two more blocks and two more spikes for a 22-11 Panther lead. Mayers added a late ace, and Behr and Cassie Ellegood each put down balls to finish the first set in short order 25-11.Five Lady Panthers scored offensive points early on in set two, resulting in a quick 11-5 score. Mayers and Micah Ellegood split six of those first 11 points. The Salthawks were battling back at 14-11 when Behr and Cassie Ellegood both came up with back-to-back acrobatic saves to score a point. Hutchinson stayed around at 15-14 until Minton put down a pair of kills. Behr followed with a big serve and a spike to bump the gap to 19-15. The Salthawks never threatened again as Feist put down a kill, junior Ava Kaiser served up an ace, and Cassie Ellegood put down a final kill to set up match-point.The Lady Panthers take a week off of competition before heading to Dodge City on Oct. 3.

No. 10 Lady Panthers make quick work of Goddard, Hutchinson at home

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals completed a series sweep with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.

Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.

“It doesn’t surprise me, to be honest," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "I like to brag on these guys because they’re so professional. They are so matter of fact, turn the page from good or bad. They don’t feel sorry for themselves when they’re getting beat and they don’t get too high when you’re winning. Hopefully they have more to celebrate, but it doesn’t surprise me.”

Salvador Perez’s second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).

“Get a ball to the outfield somehow," Frazier said of his approach. "I know he’s got the lively heater and the splitter so just get a ball to the outfield. When I hit it I thought it might be foul and I heard everybody cheer so I figured it was good. That works for sure.”

Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph. The Royals stay even with the Tigers for the second AL Wild Card spot.

Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.

“It’s my first time doing that," Erceg said. "Felt good when I was out there. A little tired now, but it’s just cool to have that experience. Now that I have done it moving forward if the situation calls for me to go three in a row again I have it in the back of my head that I’ve done it before, I can do it again.”

Erceg and teammate Angel Zerpa each tossed scoreless innings of relief in all three wins as the bullpen took center stage. Royals hurlers held the Nationals without a run in 25 of the 27 innings.

“Selflessness, professionalism, it’s one of those things that these guys understand,” Quatraro said of his bullpen. "We came this far. We know what’s at stake. It is a lot to ask of them, going three days in a row, but they’ve been so efficient.”

Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.

In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.

Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.

The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.

Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.

Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.

“This last six years have gone by fairly quick looking back now but enjoyed every second of it, don’t regret anything," Corbin said. "Enjoyed my time here and obviously to win a World Series, start a family and get to meet all you guys, so it was great.”

TRAINER’S ROOM Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.

Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.

UP NEXT Royals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kansas City Royals completed a series sweep with a 7-4 victory over the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon.Pinch hitter Adam Frazier’s one-out, line drive base hit to left field in the top of the ninth drove in two runs, breaking a 4-4 tie and guiding the Royals to their third straight win following a seven-game losing streak.“It doesn’t surprise me, to be honest," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "I like to brag on these guys because they’re so professional. They are so matter of fact, turn the page from good or bad. They don’t feel sorry for themselves when they’re getting beat and they don’t get too high when you’re winning. Hopefully they have more to celebrate, but it doesn’t surprise me.”Salvador Perez’s second single of the game scored Frazier, chasing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan (3-8).“Get a ball to the outfield somehow," Frazier said of his approach. "I know he’s got the lively heater and the splitter so just get a ball to the outfield. When I hit it I thought it might be foul and I heard everybody cheer so I figured it was good. That works for sure.”Hunter Renfroe hit his 14th homer of the season to open the scoring, a 424-feet shot that left the park at 108.4 mph. The Royals stay even with the Tigers for the second AL Wild Card spot.Kris Bubic (1-1) earned the win with a scoreless eighth inning. Royals closer Lucas Erceg recorded his third consecutive save in the series — and 14th of the season — with a shut down ninth inning.“It’s my first time doing that," Erceg said. "Felt good when I was out there. A little tired now, but it’s just cool to have that experience. Now that I have done it moving forward if the situation calls for me to go three in a row again I have it in the back of my head that I’ve done it before, I can do it again.”Erceg and teammate Angel Zerpa each tossed scoreless innings of relief in all three wins as the bullpen took center stage. Royals hurlers held the Nationals without a run in 25 of the 27 innings.“Selflessness, professionalism, it’s one of those things that these guys understand,” Quatraro said of his bullpen. "We came this far. We know what’s at stake. It is a lot to ask of them, going three days in a row, but they’ve been so efficient.”Starter Michael Wacha pitched five innings, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits, striking out two and walking one on 83 pitches, 58 for strikes.In Nationals left-hander Patrick Corbin’s final start for the team, the Royals went ahead thanks to five consecutive singles in the third. Tommy Pham, Bobby Witt Jr. and Yuli Gurriel dropped in RBI singles, lifting the Royals to a 4-1 lead.Nationals second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. hit a three-run homer over the center field wall to tie the game at 4-4, his 17th of the season.The Nationals ended a franchise record second longest scoring drought at 31 consecutive innings with an unearned run in the first inning. Dylan Crews came around to score their first run since Sept. 21 at Wrigley Field after a dropped infield pop fly by second baseman Maikel Garcia.Corbin departed to a standing ovation and tipped his cap to the crowd before stepping into the home dugout and receiving high fives from the coaching staff. The 35-year-old pitcher recorded 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on six hits with one walk and three strikeouts on 73 pitches, 49 for strikes.Corbin becomes a free agent this winter when his six-year, $240 million contract expires. The two-time All-Star’s signature moment came in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series when he tossed three scoreless innings in relief to earn the series-clinching victory for the Nationals in Houston, but has struggled the last four seasons, compiling 63 losses — the worst in the National League.“This last six years have gone by fairly quick looking back now but enjoyed every second of it, don’t regret anything," Corbin said. "Enjoyed my time here and obviously to win a World Series, start a family and get to meet all you guys, so it was great.”TRAINER’S ROOM Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen left his start Wednesday night after 2 1/3 innings with left leg fatigue but appears on target to pitch out of the bullpen this weekend against the Braves.Quatraro said LHP Will Smith (15-day IL, back spasms) is scheduled to throw a live bullpen session Saturday.UP NEXT Royals: RHP Brady Singer (9-12, 3.73 ERA) takes on Braves LHP Max Fried (10-10, 3.42) Friday night at Truist Park.

Frazier's pinch-hit, two-run single lifts the Royals to a series sweep

By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/danenberg_naya_4891">Naya Danenberg</a>&nbsp;of the 5th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team has been named the week five KJCCC Division I Defensive Player of the Week.

The award is the second consecutive week for the Cougars in following&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_phoebe_zp2h">Phoebe Reyes</a>&nbsp;being named the week four Offensive Player of the Week.

Danenberg had a strong defensive effort last week helping the Cougars remain unbeaten in KJCCC play by reaching double digit digs in both matches to average 4.33 digs per set.

The sophomore opened the week patrolling the back line with 12 digs and teaming up for a pair of assisted blocks in a three-set win at Seward County before capping the week off with a perfect service receive effort in 24 chances while adding 14 digs, averaging 4.67 digs per set in home sweep over Dodge City.

Most recently Danenberg and the Cougars took control of the early season race on Monday by picking up a straight set sweep at 6th ranked Colby Community College.

The 16th sweep of the season and fifth conference short night puts Barton alone at the top the standings at 5-0 and 18-1 on the season.

Continuing its stretch of three road contests, Barton plays 6:30 p.m. tonight at Garden City Community College before Saturday's 6:00 p.m. start at Hutchinson Community College. The Cougars' next home match comes Wednesday, October 2, hosting Cloud County Community College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727354818827.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/danenberg_naya_4891">Naya Danenberg</a>&nbsp;of the 5th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team has been named the week five KJCCC Division I Defensive Player of the Week.The award is the second consecutive week for the Cougars in following&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_phoebe_zp2h">Phoebe Reyes</a>&nbsp;being named the week four Offensive Player of the Week.Danenberg had a strong defensive effort last week helping the Cougars remain unbeaten in KJCCC play by reaching double digit digs in both matches to average 4.33 digs per set.The sophomore opened the week patrolling the back line with 12 digs and teaming up for a pair of assisted blocks in a three-set win at Seward County before capping the week off with a perfect service receive effort in 24 chances while adding 14 digs, averaging 4.67 digs per set in home sweep over Dodge City.Most recently Danenberg and the Cougars took control of the early season race on Monday by picking up a straight set sweep at 6th ranked Colby Community College.The 16th sweep of the season and fifth conference short night puts Barton alone at the top the standings at 5-0 and 18-1 on the season.Continuing its stretch of three road contests, Barton plays 6:30 p.m. tonight at Garden City Community College before Saturday's 6:00 p.m. start at Hutchinson Community College. The Cougars' next home match comes Wednesday, October 2, hosting Cloud County Community College.

Barton's Danenberg named KJCCC Division I Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week 

Below are Week 3 Rankings from the Kansas Volleyball Association. Classifications for this week are based on the 2023-24 school year though new classifications are noted. Last week's rank is in parenthesis.

Class 6A 1. Blue Valley West (4) 2. Mill Valley&nbsp; (2) 3. Olathe West (3) 4. Blue Valley North (1) 5. Washburn Rural (5) 6. Olathe South (6) 7. Blue Valley Northwest (7) 8. Shawnee Mission Northwest (9) 9. Lawrence-Free State (8) 10. Olathe Northwest (10)

Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas (1) 2. St. James Academy (2) 3. Topeka-Seaman (3) 4. Blue Valley Southwest (4) 5. Andover (5) 6. Andover Central (7) 7. Bishop Carroll (8) 8. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (6) 9. Maize South (9) 10. Great Bend (10)

Class 4A 1. Bishop Miege (1) 2. Andale (3) 3. Clearwater (2) 4. Clay Center (4) 5. Rock Creek (5) 6. Eudora (6) 7. Holton (7) 8. Louisburg (NR) 9. Rose Hill (10) 10. McPherson (9)

Class 3A 1. Beloit (1) 2. Nemaha Central (2) 3. Cheney (5) 4. Topeka Hayden (4) (has moved to Class 4A) 5. Halstead (3) 6. Wichita Trinity (6) 7. Hesston (10) 8. Hoisington (7) 9. Silver Lake (8) 10. Rossville (9) (has moved to Class 2A)

Class 2A 1. Inman (1) 2. Ellinwood (2) 3. Sedgwick (3) 4. Hillsboro (4) 5. Maranatha Academy (6) 6. Valley Heights (5) 7. Garden Plain (NR) (has moved to Class 3A) 8. Oakley (7) 9. Maur Hill (8) 10. Moundridge (9)

Class 1A, Div. I 1. Little River (1) 2. Spearville (6) 3. Goessel (2) 4. South Gray (3) 5. Centralia (4) 6. Pretty Prairie (7) 7. Flinthills (5) 8. Rock Hills (9) 9. South Central (8) 10. Sylvan-Lucas (10) (has moved to Class 2A)

Class 1A, Div. II 1. Hanover (1) 2. Lebo (2) 3. Ingalls (3) 4. Attica (6) 5. Argonia (4) 6. Marais des Cygnes (7) 7. Greeley County (5) 8. Wheatland-Grinnell (8) 9. St. Paul (NR) 10. Beloit-St. John's (10)

Below are Week 3 Rankings from the Kansas Volleyball Association. Classifications for this week are based on the 2023-24 school year though new classifications are noted. Last week's rank is in parenthesis.Class 6A 1. Blue Valley West (4) 2. Mill Valley&nbsp; (2) 3. Olathe West (3) 4. Blue Valley North (1) 5. Washburn Rural (5) 6. Olathe South (6) 7. Blue Valley Northwest (7) 8. Shawnee Mission Northwest (9) 9. Lawrence-Free State (8) 10. Olathe Northwest (10)Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas (1) 2. St. James Academy (2) 3. Topeka-Seaman (3) 4. Blue Valley Southwest (4) 5. Andover (5) 6. Andover Central (7) 7. Bishop Carroll (8) 8. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (6) 9. Maize South (9) 10. Great Bend (10)Class 4A 1. Bishop Miege (1) 2. Andale (3) 3. Clearwater (2) 4. Clay Center (4) 5. Rock Creek (5) 6. Eudora (6) 7. Holton (7) 8. Louisburg (NR) 9. Rose Hill (10) 10. McPherson (9)Class 3A 1. Beloit (1) 2. Nemaha Central (2) 3. Cheney (5) 4. Topeka Hayden (4) (has moved to Class 4A) 5. Halstead (3) 6. Wichita Trinity (6) 7. Hesston (10) 8. Hoisington (7) 9. Silver Lake (8) 10. Rossville (9) (has moved to Class 2A)Class 2A 1. Inman (1) 2. Ellinwood (2) 3. Sedgwick (3) 4. Hillsboro (4) 5. Maranatha Academy (6) 6. Valley Heights (5) 7. Garden Plain (NR) (has moved to Class 3A) 8. Oakley (7) 9. Maur Hill (8) 10. Moundridge (9)Class 1A, Div. I 1. Little River (1) 2. Spearville (6) 3. Goessel (2) 4. South Gray (3) 5. Centralia (4) 6. Pretty Prairie (7) 7. Flinthills (5) 8. Rock Hills (9) 9. South Central (8) 10. Sylvan-Lucas (10) (has moved to Class 2A)Class 1A, Div. II 1. Hanover (1) 2. Lebo (2) 3. Ingalls (3) 4. Attica (6) 5. Argonia (4) 6. Marais des Cygnes (7) 7. Greeley County (5) 8. Wheatland-Grinnell (8) 9. St. Paul (NR) 10. Beloit-St. John's (10)

Kansas Volleyball Association Rankings (Sept. 25)

Below are the top five high school football teams in each classification, according to kpreps.com, and their opponent for week four of the season.

Class 6A 1. Derby (3-0) vs Maize (0-3) 2. Gardner-Edgerton (3-0) at Lawrence (2-1) 3. Blue Valley Northwest (3-0) at Washburn Rural (1-2) 4. Manhattan (3-0) at Junction City (1-2) 5. Wichita Northwest (3-0) vs No. 2 Kapaun (4A) (3-0)

Class 5A 1. Mill Valley (2-1) at Shawnee Mission South (1-2) 2. St. Thomas Aquinas (3-0) vs Blue Valley Southwest (2-1) 3. Blue Valley (2-1) vs St. James Academy (1-2) 4. Goddard-Eisenhower (3-0) at Salina Central (2-1) 5. Great Bend (3-0) vs Wichita North (0-3)

Class 4A 1. Andover Central (3-0) at Valley Center (0-3) 2. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (3-0) at No. 5 Wichita Northwest (6A) (3-0) 3. Louisburg (3-0) vs Bonner Springs (0-3) 4. Chanute (3-0) vs No. 4 Nemaha Central (2A) (2-1) 5. Winfield (3-0) at McPherson (1-2)

Class 3A 1. Andale (3-0) vs No. 4 Wichita Collegiate (3-0) 2. Cheney (3-0) at Clearwater (2-1) 3. Topeka Hayden (3-0) at Wamego (2-1) 4. Wichita Collegiate (3-0) at No. 1 Andale (3-0) 5. Marysville (3-0) vs Concordia (0-3)

Class 2A 1. Norton (3-0) vs Minneapolis (1-2) 2. Southeast of Saline (3-0) at Kingman (2-1) 3. St. Marys (3-0) vs No. 5 Silver Lake (2-1) 4. Nemaha Central (2-1) at No. 4 Chanute (4A) (3-0) 5. Silver Lake (2-1) at No. 3 St. Marys (3-0)

Class 1A 1. Conway Springs (3-0) at No. 2 Medicine Lodge (2-0) 2. Medicine Lodge (2-0) at No. 1 Conway Springs (3-0) 3. Sedgwick (3-0) at Marion (3-0) 4. Jackson Heights (3-0) vs McLouth (2-1) 5. Moundridge (2-0) vs Herington (0-3)

8-Man, Div. I 1. Hoxie (3-0) vs Stockton (0-3) 2. Little River (3-0) vs Goessel (1-2) 3. Wichita County (1-1) vs Trego Community (0-3) 4. West Elk (3-0) at Oswego (2-1) 5. South Central (3-0) at Kiowa County (1-2)

8-Man, Div. II 1. Axtell (3-0) vs Randolph-Blue Valley (3-0) 2. Frankfort (3-0) at Hanover (3-0) 3. Victoria (3-0) at Pretty Prairie (0-3) 4. Dighton (3-0) at Wallace County (2-1) 5. Burlingame (3-0) at Centre (0-3)

6-Man 1. Cunningham (3-0) vs Tescott (2-1) 2. Ingalls (3-0) at Rolla (1-1) 3. Weskan (3-0) vs Western Plains (1-2) 4. South Barber (2-1) at Moscow (1-2) 5. Marais Des Cygnes Valley (3-0) vs Altoona-Midway (1-1)

Below are the top five high school football teams in each classification, according to kpreps.com, and their opponent for week four of the season.Class 6A 1. Derby (3-0) vs Maize (0-3) 2. Gardner-Edgerton (3-0) at Lawrence (2-1) 3. Blue Valley Northwest (3-0) at Washburn Rural (1-2) 4. Manhattan (3-0) at Junction City (1-2) 5. Wichita Northwest (3-0) vs No. 2 Kapaun (4A) (3-0)Class 5A 1. Mill Valley (2-1) at Shawnee Mission South (1-2) 2. St. Thomas Aquinas (3-0) vs Blue Valley Southwest (2-1) 3. Blue Valley (2-1) vs St. James Academy (1-2) 4. Goddard-Eisenhower (3-0) at Salina Central (2-1) 5. Great Bend (3-0) vs Wichita North (0-3)Class 4A 1. Andover Central (3-0) at Valley Center (0-3) 2. Kapaun Mt. Carmel (3-0) at No. 5 Wichita Northwest (6A) (3-0) 3. Louisburg (3-0) vs Bonner Springs (0-3) 4. Chanute (3-0) vs No. 4 Nemaha Central (2A) (2-1) 5. Winfield (3-0) at McPherson (1-2)Class 3A 1. Andale (3-0) vs No. 4 Wichita Collegiate (3-0) 2. Cheney (3-0) at Clearwater (2-1) 3. Topeka Hayden (3-0) at Wamego (2-1) 4. Wichita Collegiate (3-0) at No. 1 Andale (3-0) 5. Marysville (3-0) vs Concordia (0-3)Class 2A 1. Norton (3-0) vs Minneapolis (1-2) 2. Southeast of Saline (3-0) at Kingman (2-1) 3. St. Marys (3-0) vs No. 5 Silver Lake (2-1) 4. Nemaha Central (2-1) at No. 4 Chanute (4A) (3-0) 5. Silver Lake (2-1) at No. 3 St. Marys (3-0)Class 1A 1. Conway Springs (3-0) at No. 2 Medicine Lodge (2-0) 2. Medicine Lodge (2-0) at No. 1 Conway Springs (3-0) 3. Sedgwick (3-0) at Marion (3-0) 4. Jackson Heights (3-0) vs McLouth (2-1) 5. Moundridge (2-0) vs Herington (0-3)8-Man, Div. I 1. Hoxie (3-0) vs Stockton (0-3) 2. Little River (3-0) vs Goessel (1-2) 3. Wichita County (1-1) vs Trego Community (0-3) 4. West Elk (3-0) at Oswego (2-1) 5. South Central (3-0) at Kiowa County (1-2)8-Man, Div. II 1. Axtell (3-0) vs Randolph-Blue Valley (3-0) 2. Frankfort (3-0) at Hanover (3-0) 3. Victoria (3-0) at Pretty Prairie (0-3) 4. Dighton (3-0) at Wallace County (2-1) 5. Burlingame (3-0) at Centre (0-3)6-Man 1. Cunningham (3-0) vs Tescott (2-1) 2. Ingalls (3-0) at Rolla (1-1) 3. Weskan (3-0) vs Western Plains (1-2) 4. South Barber (2-1) at Moscow (1-2) 5. Marais Des Cygnes Valley (3-0) vs Altoona-Midway (1-1)

High school football rankings and opponents (Week 4)

A second half penalty kick provided the difference maker Wednesday for the Barton Community College men's soccer team in a 2-1 victory over Seward County Community College at the Cougar Soccer Complex.

Winners of two straight, the Cougars conclude the first path through the rugged Jayhawk Conference at 3-3-0 while moving to 7-3-0 on the season. The loss drops the Saints to 1-2-3 in league play and 4-3-3 overall.

Barton will continue its season long five match homestand Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. looking to avenge an earlier season loss to Dodge City Community College before hosting a midweek non-conference classic October 1-3 featuring Otero Junior College and No. 3 ranked Indian Hills Community College.

Just midway through the opening half,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/kanku_loic_7v7s">Loic Kanku</a>&nbsp;put the Cougars on top with 18:25 remaining cleaning up his initial deflected shot attempt blasting it past the five-time KJCCC Goalkeeper of the Week Bruno Mestres.

The advantage lasted just forty-two seconds as an errant defensive pass was intercepted by the Saints' Felipe Flores netting the equalizer converting the 1v1 attempt against Cougar netkeeper&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/bergamin_gabriel_93fg">Gabriel Bergamin</a>.

Playing to a 1-1 stalemate at halftime with Barton holding a slight 10-9 edge on shots, the contest quickly swung just 5:47 into the second half with Seward County finding themselves at a disadvantage going down a man due to a second yellow card violation.

Benefitting with a man advantage over the final 39:13, the Barton attack wore down the Saints backline in the 76th minute with Diego Giminez brought down inside the box resulting in a penalty kick. Taping the line, leading goal scorer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/voinier_maxence_ehjk">Maxence Voinier</a>&nbsp;delivered the eventual game winner converting the spot kick with 14:05 remaining.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727354706587.jpeg" alt="Maxence Voinier's penalty kick" />
 <figcaption>Maxence Voinier's penalty kick</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoA second half penalty kick provided the difference maker Wednesday for the Barton Community College men's soccer team in a 2-1 victory over Seward County Community College at the Cougar Soccer Complex.Winners of two straight, the Cougars conclude the first path through the rugged Jayhawk Conference at 3-3-0 while moving to 7-3-0 on the season. The loss drops the Saints to 1-2-3 in league play and 4-3-3 overall.Barton will continue its season long five match homestand Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. looking to avenge an earlier season loss to Dodge City Community College before hosting a midweek non-conference classic October 1-3 featuring Otero Junior College and No. 3 ranked Indian Hills Community College.Just midway through the opening half,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/kanku_loic_7v7s">Loic Kanku</a>&nbsp;put the Cougars on top with 18:25 remaining cleaning up his initial deflected shot attempt blasting it past the five-time KJCCC Goalkeeper of the Week Bruno Mestres.The advantage lasted just forty-two seconds as an errant defensive pass was intercepted by the Saints' Felipe Flores netting the equalizer converting the 1v1 attempt against Cougar netkeeper&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/bergamin_gabriel_93fg">Gabriel Bergamin</a>.Playing to a 1-1 stalemate at halftime with Barton holding a slight 10-9 edge on shots, the contest quickly swung just 5:47 into the second half with Seward County finding themselves at a disadvantage going down a man due to a second yellow card violation.Benefitting with a man advantage over the final 39:13, the Barton attack wore down the Saints backline in the 76th minute with Diego Giminez brought down inside the box resulting in a penalty kick. Taping the line, leading goal scorer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/msoc/2024-25/bios/voinier_maxence_ehjk">Maxence Voinier</a>&nbsp;delivered the eventual game winner converting the spot kick with 14:05 remaining.

Voinier's penalty kick lifts Barton men to 2-1 victory over Seward County

The Barton Community College women's soccer team fought off a late second half charge Wednesday afternoon in defeating Seward County Community College 2-1 at the Cougar Soccer Complex.

Completing the first path through the Jayhawk Conference, the Cougars sit at 3-3-2 in league play and 5-3-2 on the season while the Saints drop to 1-5-2 in conference play and 2-5-3 overall.

Barton will open the second half of conference play Saturday hosting Dodge City Community College at 3:00 p.m. as the two teams played to a 2-2 draw back on August 28th in Dodge City. The Cougars will then conclude their four match homestand next Wednesday, October 2nd hosting No. 6 ranked Butler Community College.

Controlling possession for the majority of the first half, a Saints foul generated the Cougars first marker of the afternoon as Sara Aguirre Lancher's perfectly shaped free kick from 25-yards out sneaked inside the upper-90 near post.

Holding a 10-3 edge in shots over the first 45-minutes both teams would dial up six shot attempts apiece in second half action.

Leading goal scorer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/potter_katie_wgdw">Katie Potter</a>&nbsp;doubled up Barton's advantage with her eighth of the season converting a 1v1 strike near post created from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/jolly_fiona_g347">Fiona Jolly</a>'s sent through ball slipping behind the Saints backline with 17:43 remaining.

Meredith Rosas dampened Barton's shutout chances with 9:07 left winning a loose ball and dribbling past the Cougar defense firing off a left footed near post twine shaker to draw the Saints within 2-1.

Controlling the possession over the final 10-minutes, Seward County nearly drew the tying goal with 6:52 remaining but a Saints foul interfering with Barton netminder&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/tanaka_mio_fiw7">Mio Tanaka</a>&nbsp;wiped the tying goal off the board.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727354591994.jpeg" alt="Fiona Jolly" />
 <figcaption>Fiona Jolly</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoThe Barton Community College women's soccer team fought off a late second half charge Wednesday afternoon in defeating Seward County Community College 2-1 at the Cougar Soccer Complex.Completing the first path through the Jayhawk Conference, the Cougars sit at 3-3-2 in league play and 5-3-2 on the season while the Saints drop to 1-5-2 in conference play and 2-5-3 overall.Barton will open the second half of conference play Saturday hosting Dodge City Community College at 3:00 p.m. as the two teams played to a 2-2 draw back on August 28th in Dodge City. The Cougars will then conclude their four match homestand next Wednesday, October 2nd hosting No. 6 ranked Butler Community College.Controlling possession for the majority of the first half, a Saints foul generated the Cougars first marker of the afternoon as Sara Aguirre Lancher's perfectly shaped free kick from 25-yards out sneaked inside the upper-90 near post.Holding a 10-3 edge in shots over the first 45-minutes both teams would dial up six shot attempts apiece in second half action.Leading goal scorer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/potter_katie_wgdw">Katie Potter</a>&nbsp;doubled up Barton's advantage with her eighth of the season converting a 1v1 strike near post created from&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/jolly_fiona_g347">Fiona Jolly</a>'s sent through ball slipping behind the Saints backline with 17:43 remaining.Meredith Rosas dampened Barton's shutout chances with 9:07 left winning a loose ball and dribbling past the Cougar defense firing off a left footed near post twine shaker to draw the Saints within 2-1.Controlling the possession over the final 10-minutes, Seward County nearly drew the tying goal with 6:52 remaining but a Saints foul interfering with Barton netminder&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wsoc/2024-25/bios/tanaka_mio_fiw7">Mio Tanaka</a>&nbsp;wiped the tying goal off the board.

Barton women's soccer holds off Seward County for 2-1 victory 

Coming off a big win Monday night at No. 6 Colby, the 5th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team avoided a letdown Wednesday night by registering its sixth conference sweep in a mostly dominant victory at Garden City Community College (25-13, 26-24, 25-14).

The victory improves Barton 6-0 in the KJCCC with its 17th sweep of the season improving its overall record to 19-1. Garden City falls to 3-3 in league and 9-6 overall.

Next up is the conclusion of a three-match road swing coming up on Saturday in a 6:00 p.m. first serve at Hutchinson Community College. The Cougars' next home match comes on Wednesday, October 2, hosting Cloud County Community College.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_phoebe_zp2h">Phoebe Reyes</a>&nbsp;again led the Cougars with 12 kills on a .269 attack as the squad hit at a .239 clip on the evening as setters&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/stankovic_elena_icdc">Elena Stankovic</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_maurin_5w3d">Maurin Reyes</a>&nbsp;put up 16 assists each.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/thompson_mya_yeos">Mya Thompson</a>'s .400 efficiency led the team, putting away 8 kills as did&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/danenberg_naya_4891">Naya Danenberg</a>&nbsp;as the reigning KJCCC Defensive Player of the Week collected 11 digs with two service aces.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/kaneko_mina_z3c5">Mina Kaneko</a>&nbsp;led the backline with 20 digs with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/nixon_kassidy_bbcx">Kassidy Nixon</a>&nbsp;close behind with 17 total.

RECAP A 5-0 run put the Cougars up 5-1 early, later extending the lead to 10- 2 and 13-3 as all Garden City points came from Barton miscues.

Consecutive blockades by Nixon and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/olander_aubrey_49pp">Aubrey Olander</a>&nbsp;sparked another four-pack of points to be followed after a pair of Garden City points with an additional 4-0 run pushing the margin to its widest of 21-7 in riding out the opening win.

The second set was a battle capped by a late incredible Cougar comeback to steal the set.

Garden City broke out to a 5-2 and 8-5 lead before Barton started to pick it up getting kills by Nixon, Thompson, and Danenberg in stringing six straight for an 11-8 lead.

The Broncbusters fought back taking ten of the next sixteen points to lead at 18-15. Following a pair of P. Reyes attacks, Garden City went on another spurt of three straight digging Barton a 22-17 deficit in using their last timeout of the set.

Reyes' kill coming out of the timeout ended the spurt with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/wierzbicki_anna_emil">Anna Wierzbicki</a>'s center attack followed by Thompson's swung the momentum to the Cougars.

Following Garden City's last timeout, Danenberg and Thompson's attacks suddenly knotted things up at 22. The teams traded points to tie again at 23 and 24 before a Garden City receiving error gave Barton the lead with an attack error putting the final point on the visitor's side of the scoreboard and 2-0 Barton match lead.

Trying to fight through the disappointment into the third set, Garden City held a 5-4 lead and was tied at 6-all before Barton surged ahead on pair of points sparking a 6-2 stretch.

Leading 12-8 at the Garden City timeout, the Cougars would only allow the home squad to come no closer than four before stringing multiple stretches of two-point runs increasing the lead out to eight.

Closing the night on a 5-1 stretch, the Cougars secured its second straight win at Garden City improving their overall record at Conestoga Arena to 20-1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727354495082.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoComing off a big win Monday night at No. 6 Colby, the 5th ranked Barton Community College volleyball team avoided a letdown Wednesday night by registering its sixth conference sweep in a mostly dominant victory at Garden City Community College (25-13, 26-24, 25-14).The victory improves Barton 6-0 in the KJCCC with its 17th sweep of the season improving its overall record to 19-1. Garden City falls to 3-3 in league and 9-6 overall.Next up is the conclusion of a three-match road swing coming up on Saturday in a 6:00 p.m. first serve at Hutchinson Community College. The Cougars' next home match comes on Wednesday, October 2, hosting Cloud County Community College.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_phoebe_zp2h">Phoebe Reyes</a>&nbsp;again led the Cougars with 12 kills on a .269 attack as the squad hit at a .239 clip on the evening as setters&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/stankovic_elena_icdc">Elena Stankovic</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/reyes_maurin_5w3d">Maurin Reyes</a>&nbsp;put up 16 assists each.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/thompson_mya_yeos">Mya Thompson</a>'s .400 efficiency led the team, putting away 8 kills as did&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/danenberg_naya_4891">Naya Danenberg</a>&nbsp;as the reigning KJCCC Defensive Player of the Week collected 11 digs with two service aces.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/kaneko_mina_z3c5">Mina Kaneko</a>&nbsp;led the backline with 20 digs with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/nixon_kassidy_bbcx">Kassidy Nixon</a>&nbsp;close behind with 17 total.RECAP A 5-0 run put the Cougars up 5-1 early, later extending the lead to 10- 2 and 13-3 as all Garden City points came from Barton miscues.Consecutive blockades by Nixon and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/olander_aubrey_49pp">Aubrey Olander</a>&nbsp;sparked another four-pack of points to be followed after a pair of Garden City points with an additional 4-0 run pushing the margin to its widest of 21-7 in riding out the opening win.The second set was a battle capped by a late incredible Cougar comeback to steal the set.Garden City broke out to a 5-2 and 8-5 lead before Barton started to pick it up getting kills by Nixon, Thompson, and Danenberg in stringing six straight for an 11-8 lead.The Broncbusters fought back taking ten of the next sixteen points to lead at 18-15. Following a pair of P. Reyes attacks, Garden City went on another spurt of three straight digging Barton a 22-17 deficit in using their last timeout of the set.Reyes' kill coming out of the timeout ended the spurt with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bartonsports.com/sports/wvball/2024-25/bios/wierzbicki_anna_emil">Anna Wierzbicki</a>'s center attack followed by Thompson's swung the momentum to the Cougars.Following Garden City's last timeout, Danenberg and Thompson's attacks suddenly knotted things up at 22. The teams traded points to tie again at 23 and 24 before a Garden City receiving error gave Barton the lead with an attack error putting the final point on the visitor's side of the scoreboard and 2-0 Barton match lead.Trying to fight through the disappointment into the third set, Garden City held a 5-4 lead and was tied at 6-all before Barton surged ahead on pair of points sparking a 6-2 stretch.Leading 12-8 at the Garden City timeout, the Cougars would only allow the home squad to come no closer than four before stringing multiple stretches of two-point runs increasing the lead out to eight.Closing the night on a 5-1 stretch, the Cougars secured its second straight win at Garden City improving their overall record at Conestoga Arena to 20-1.

No. 5 Lady Cougars avoid letdown in sweep at Garden City

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Wyatt Langford and Adolis García homered to help the Texas Rangers spoil the final scheduled night baseball game at the Oakland Coliseum, beating the Athletics 5-1 on Wednesday. An animated crowd of 35,270 came out on a chilly late September evening, regularly chanting “Sell the team!” as a message to owner John Fisher. The A’s have played in the Coliseum since 1968 and are scheduled to move to Sacramento for at least the next three seasons while waiting for a ballpark they hope to open in Las Vegas. A tribute video to the Coliseum played on the big screen before the game, and the grounds crew has written “Thank You Oakland” into the outfield grass for the final series. Fireworks were shot off in the parking lot outside after the game as fans lingered inside as long as possible with music blaring — just not wanting to leave this one-of-a-kind old gem of a venue.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/minnesota-vikings">Minnesota Vikings</a>&nbsp;quarterback Tommy Kramer has been diagnosed with dementia, he announced on social media. The 69-year-old Kramer, who played 13 of his 14 seasons in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/NFL">NFL</a>&nbsp;with the Vikings and made the Pro Bowl after leading the league in passer rating in 1986,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Kramer9Tommy/status/1839029289037013138" target="_blank">posted on his X account</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that he was formally diagnosed with the cognitive decline a little more than year ago at the Cleveland Clinic as part of a health and wellness program for former NFL players. Kramer said he was inspired to share about his condition after the revelation Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre made Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brett-favre-parkinsons-2d71197783b8bf949d772c32f7726d2f">during a congressional hearing</a>&nbsp;that he has Parkinson’s disease. Kramer said his doctors told him at his one-year checkup that the dementia hasn’t advanced and that he has stopped consuming alcohol to better cope with it.

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Alyssa Thomas and the Connecticut Sun were happy to finally close out an opening round series at home in two games. Thomas had 19 points and 13 assists to help the Sun sweep rookie sensation Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever out of the playoffs with an 87-81 win Wednesday night. Since the league changed its playoff format in 2022, the Sun have needed to win a decisive third game on the road in the first round to advance, which they did both years. This time, they were able to do it at home.

The convoluted way college athletes are paid for the use of their name, image and likeness and a dispute between player and coaches over money appears to have cost an undefeated team its quarterback three games into the season. UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka has decided to sit out the rest of the season over a $100,000 NIL payment that was promised but never paid after he agreed to transfer to the Rebels from Holy Cross last winter, Sluka’s agent told The Associated Press on Wednesday. “I think there was some kind of breakdown in communication,” Bob Sluka, Matthew’s father, told AP. Sluka’s decision sent shockwaves throughout major college football, where the old rules of amateurism have fallen, leaving schools and the NCAA grappling with how to regulate the way players can be paid. Just how much regulation is part of a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement agreement involving the NCAA and the nation’s top conferences that is before a federal judge in California.&nbsp;Sluka’s agent, Marcus Cromartie of Equity Sports, said Sluka was promised $100,000 by a UNLV assistant coach who recruited the quarterback last winter when he agreed to transfer in January.

WEDNESDAY'S SCORES Major League Baseball (Kansas City and Detroit main a two-game lead over Minnesota in the AL Wild Card race) American League

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707734642080.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Wyatt Langford and Adolis García homered to help the Texas Rangers spoil the final scheduled night baseball game at the Oakland Coliseum, beating the Athletics 5-1 on Wednesday. An animated crowd of 35,270 came out on a chilly late September evening, regularly chanting “Sell the team!” as a message to owner John Fisher. The A’s have played in the Coliseum since 1968 and are scheduled to move to Sacramento for at least the next three seasons while waiting for a ballpark they hope to open in Las Vegas. A tribute video to the Coliseum played on the big screen before the game, and the grounds crew has written “Thank You Oakland” into the outfield grass for the final series. Fireworks were shot off in the parking lot outside after the game as fans lingered inside as long as possible with music blaring — just not wanting to leave this one-of-a-kind old gem of a venue.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/minnesota-vikings">Minnesota Vikings</a>&nbsp;quarterback Tommy Kramer has been diagnosed with dementia, he announced on social media. The 69-year-old Kramer, who played 13 of his 14 seasons in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/NFL">NFL</a>&nbsp;with the Vikings and made the Pro Bowl after leading the league in passer rating in 1986,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Kramer9Tommy/status/1839029289037013138" target="_blank">posted on his X account</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that he was formally diagnosed with the cognitive decline a little more than year ago at the Cleveland Clinic as part of a health and wellness program for former NFL players. Kramer said he was inspired to share about his condition after the revelation Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre made Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brett-favre-parkinsons-2d71197783b8bf949d772c32f7726d2f">during a congressional hearing</a>&nbsp;that he has Parkinson’s disease. Kramer said his doctors told him at his one-year checkup that the dementia hasn’t advanced and that he has stopped consuming alcohol to better cope with it.UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — Alyssa Thomas and the Connecticut Sun were happy to finally close out an opening round series at home in two games. Thomas had 19 points and 13 assists to help the Sun sweep rookie sensation Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever out of the playoffs with an 87-81 win Wednesday night. Since the league changed its playoff format in 2022, the Sun have needed to win a decisive third game on the road in the first round to advance, which they did both years. This time, they were able to do it at home.The convoluted way college athletes are paid for the use of their name, image and likeness and a dispute between player and coaches over money appears to have cost an undefeated team its quarterback three games into the season. UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka has decided to sit out the rest of the season over a $100,000 NIL payment that was promised but never paid after he agreed to transfer to the Rebels from Holy Cross last winter, Sluka’s agent told The Associated Press on Wednesday. “I think there was some kind of breakdown in communication,” Bob Sluka, Matthew’s father, told AP. Sluka’s decision sent shockwaves throughout major college football, where the old rules of amateurism have fallen, leaving schools and the NCAA grappling with how to regulate the way players can be paid. Just how much regulation is part of a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement agreement involving the NCAA and the nation’s top conferences that is before a federal judge in California.&nbsp;Sluka’s agent, Marcus Cromartie of Equity Sports, said Sluka was promised $100,000 by a UNLV assistant coach who recruited the quarterback last winter when he agreed to transfer in January.WEDNESDAY'S SCORES Major League Baseball (Kansas City and Detroit main a two-game lead over Minnesota in the AL Wild Card race) American LeagueKansas City 3, Washington 0Seattle 8, Houston 1Minnesota 8, Miami 3Detroit 7, Tampa Bay 1Toronto 6, Boston 1Baltimore 9, NY Yankees 7Texas 5, Oakland 1Chicago White Sox 4, LA Angels 3National LeaguePhiladelphia 9, Chicago Cubs 6Pittsburgh 2, Milwaukee 1LA Dodgers 4, San Diego 3St. Louis 5, Colorado 2Arizona 8, San Francisco 2InterleagueCleveland 5, Cincinnati 2

Thursday's Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.

Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.

Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.

Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.

Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.

James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.

Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.

TRAINER'S ROOM Royals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727314412664.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) gives Washington Nationals' Nasim Nunez his batting helmet back during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Five Kansas City relievers pitched 6 2/3 innings of two-hit ball after starter Michael Lorenzen's early exit, Robbie Grossman hit a two-run double, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 3-0 win over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.Michael Massey singled in a run off DJ Herz (4-9) to help lift the Royals to a second-straight shutout victory after a season high-tying seven-game losing streak.Kansas City and Detroit are both 84-74 but the Royals hold the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Tigers for the second wild-card spot.Daniel Lynch IV (2-0) worked 2 2/3 scoreless frames in relief of Lorenzen, who exited with lower body fatigue after 2 1/3 innings in his first start since sustaining a left hamstring strain on Aug. 27.Angel Zerpa, John Schreiber and Sam Long bridged the gap to Lucas Erceg, who completed his 13th save. That effort extended the Kansas City bullpen's scoreless streak to 14 1/3 innings over four games.James Wood and Nasim Nuñez had the only hits for Washington, which fell to a third consecutive shutout defeat and has lost eight of its last nine games.Lorenzen cruised through the first two innings but departed with a batter retired in the third after a brief visit from the team medical staff. He threw 28 pitches, striking out two and officially issuing two walks, the latter coming on the at-bat that Lynch completed.TRAINER'S ROOM Royals: Kansas City optioned RHP Steven Cruz to Triple-A Omaha to make room for Lorenzen.

Royals ride bullpen to 3-0 win over Nationals after Lorenzen's early exit

- Great Bend volleyball coach Shelly Duvall who will be joined by Freshmen&nbsp;Mikala Minton and Micah Ellegood.

- Great Bend football coach Erin Beck who will be joined by Senior's Brody Schnoebelen and Eli Soupiset.

- "Voice of the Tigers" Gerard Wellbrock who will talk everything Fort Hays State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Wednesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E0B3-_GPE5o?si=QLPDtzMu8GFv28sS" 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>- Great Bend volleyball coach Shelly Duvall who will be joined by Freshmen&nbsp;Mikala Minton and Micah Ellegood.- Great Bend football coach Erin Beck who will be joined by Senior's Brody Schnoebelen and Eli Soupiset.- "Voice of the Tigers" Gerard Wellbrock who will talk everything Fort Hays State.- Wednesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Wednesday on Sports Day(Watch)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aNDWKY61V-A?si=0s2VDocrDJfBx4qY" 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 Cardinals" Cole Reif- Barton volleyball coach Megan Besecker- "On the Prowl" with Mike Courson- Tuesday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24-hours

Tuesday on Sports Day(Watch)

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Athletics had long ago carved out a Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy as one of Major League Baseball's most successful — and sad-sack — franchises. Under their belts: nine World Series titles and 19 seasons of futility punctuated by 100 or more losses.

This, though, is different. Now, legions of A's fans view the team as the sport's most treacherous under the ownership of billionaire John Fisher, an heir of the family that founded The Gap in 1969 — one year after the A's moved to Oakland from Kansas City.

Just a few years after embracing “Rooted In Oakland” as their motto, the A’s this week are coming to the end of their 57 see-sawing seasons in a city regularly overshadowed by the mystique of its storied neighbor, San Francisco.

“I know these times coming to the games are always going to be among the best years of my life," longtime A's fan Will MacNeil, 40, rued as he contemplated an ending that is crushing a community's soul. “And for a billionaire owner to rip it away from me, it's frustrating.”

A baseball team that has moved twice moves again

The A's exodus from Oakland will give the team the dubious distinction of being the first Major League Baseball franchise to have moved on four different occasions. After starting in Philadelphia in 1901, the A’s moved to Kansas City in 1955, then to Oakland in 1968, with California's capital city of Sacramento and Las Vegas next in the peripatetic pipeline.

No place has been the A's home for as long as Oakland, where they're the last professional sports team in a two-county region known as the East Bay — home to 2.8 million people living across the water from San Francisco.

Through the years, the baseball team became an emblem of East Bay's grit and flair. The A's glory years included the colorfully attired, mustachioed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgk-DnMM8LA">“Swingin' A's”</a>&nbsp;during the first half of the 1970s, the muscular and swaggering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL6GNcrVtvE">“Bash Brothers”</a>&nbsp;of the late 1980s, and the scrappy underdogs of the 2000s that yielded a real-life fairy tale&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4QPVo0UIzc">in the film, “Moneyball,”</a>&nbsp;based on the Michael Lewis book that ushered in the era of data-driven analysis.

Through those decades, the A's stadium — the now-crumbling Oakland Coliseum — became an East Bay hub where people of all races, ages, incomes and backgrounds rallied around a common cause.

“It was really like the public square," lifelong A's fan Jim Zelinski said earlier this year. His father brought him to the team's first game at the Oakland Coliseum on April 17, 1968 — a 4-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles before a crowd of 50,164.

"I remember my dad telling me how sports can bring everybody together, creating a sense of pride and identity,” he said.

Rooting for the A's connected everyone from longshore workers at Oakland's bustling port to the tech geeks of Silicon Valley to hippies from nearby Berkeley to technology to subversives forged in the cauldron of a city where Huey Newton started the Black Panthers and Sonny Barger led a notorious chapter of the Hells Angels.

“The A’s are such an indelible part of this community,” Zelinski said. “Everybody was so proud of not only the teams, but there was also this sense of, ‘Hey, this is us! This is the East Bay!’”

The Coliseum, lovingly known as baseball's “Last Dive Bar"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/02/sports/baseball/oakland-coliseum.html">after a 2019 story</a>&nbsp;in The New York Times drew that analogy, is a remnant of the 1960s when cities built stadiums designed to be used for both baseball and football. Its deteriorating condition is why Fisher began looking to build a new stadium for the A's soon after he bought the team for $180 million in 2006.

For all the derision aimed at the facility, the Coliseum has been the site for three of the 24 perfect games thrown in baseball history, and it's the place where Rickey Henderson set the record for career stolen bases. It also has been the been the backdrop for the four World Series championships the A's won in Oakland; only the Yankees, with seven championships, have won more since 1968. Seven winners of the American League's Most Valuable Player award have starred for the Oakland A's, as have five pitchers who won the league's Cy Young award.

Three of the A's World Series title were won in consecutive years under the ownership of Charles O. “Charlie” Finley, who brought the team to Oakland from Missouri.

Finley brought his mule “Charlie O” with him to serve as the team mascot and made an unsuccessful push to get the leagues to use orange baseballs and allow designated runners. But before selling the A's in 1980, Finley also pushed for night games during the World Series so more people could watch the games on TV and the designated hitter rule so fans wouldn't have to watch pitchers try to hit. The former is a staple today, as is the later — though purists still debate it.

Finley died in 1996, long before the 50-year reunion of the 1974 World Series champions held in June. But his niece, Nancy Finley, flew in from Texas to represent the family during the ceremony at the Coliseum, where she worked for much of the 1970s. It will likely be her last visit; she can't bear the thought of attending the A's final game in Oakland on Thursday.

“I wouldn't want to be there. It would be too hard,” Nancy Finley said. “I can't stop having flashbacks whenever I go back there. I have every section, row and seat memorized.”

The bond between fans and a community is strong

Other beloved sports teams have spurned their devoted fans by moving elsewhere through the decades, including the baseball's Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants in 1958 and the National Football League's Colts, whose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N3oH7KHoKc">moving vans left Baltimore for Indianapolis</a>&nbsp;in 1984 during the middle of the night.

But none of them have been jilted in quite the same way as the East Bay.

“It’s taken so long for this move to evolve that it’s been like a slow death eating me up very single day,” said A’s fan Mike Silva, 72, wiping away tears as he showed some of his old ticket stubs.

“You can still cheer for them after the move, but you are just gong to be cheering for the uniform,” he said. “It’s not the same. ”

The NFL's Raiders already turned their back on Oakland twice. They did it first in 1982 when they moved to Los Angeles before coming back in 1995, only to leave for Las Vegas in 2020 — the year after the National Basketball Association's Warriors hopped over the bay to San Francisco.

After the A's decided to follow the Raiders to Las Vegas, Fisher poured more salt into Oakland fans' wounds. Rather than stay in the Coliseum, Fisher chose to move the A's 85 miles northeast to a minor-league ballpark in Sacramento for at least the next three years while waiting for the new stadium in Nevada to be built. Hundreds of A's employees and Coliseum concession workers, including some who had been there for more than 40 years, will be laid off when the A's leave Oakland behind.

On Monday, after staying fairly mum during the final season, Fisher wrote an open letter to fans and the community. His words echoed with regret.

“The A’s are part of the fabric of Oakland and the East Bay and the entire Bay Area,” Fisher wrote. “I know there is great disappointment, even bitterness. ... I can tell you this from my heart: we tried. Staying in Oakland was our goal. It was our mission, and we failed to achieve it. And for that I am genuinely sorry.”

Many devout A's fans have been boycotting games in disgust. Those who still come, like Will MacNeil, regularly lead chants of “Sell the team!'" before lobbing a profanity at Fisher.

MacNeil, known as “Right-Field Will” after being a fixture in the Coliseum's bleachers for nearly 20 years, has accumulated about 200 A's jerseys during his fandom. He estimates only 20 fit him now because of the weight he put on while drowning his sorrow about the team's move in beers.

"I know I shouldn’t have been because it’s only sports, but this move really destroyed me,” MacNeil said as he cheered the A's on to a victory in May.

Zelinski, the fan who attended the A's first game in 1968, spent nearly 30 years fighting to keep sports teams in Oakland. When the season started, he still didn't want to believe it would all be to no avail.

“I had some of the greatest memories of my life at the Oakland Coliseum,” Zelinski, 65, said in April. “The A's are such an irreplaceable part of the East Bay culture that I don't think people can quite grasp what incredible sadness there is going to be like at that final game in September."

He will never find out. After a long battle with bladder cancer, Jim Zelinski died June 7 — the same day that A's outfielder JJ Bleday slugged a homer in the bottom of the ninth to catapult the team to a 2-1 victory.

Here in Oakland, as a quiet end approaches, that sets us up to leave you with&nbsp;<a href="https://mason.gmu.edu/~rmatz/giamatti.html">an observation</a>&nbsp;that the former baseball commissioner, A. Bartlett Giamatti, once made about the sport. It hangs over the community this week like a misplaced curveball: “It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727280503417.jpeg" alt="FILE - Fans pour onto the field at the Oakland Coliseum after the Oakland A's beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 3-2 and won their third straight World Series, Oct. 17, 1974, in Oakland. (AP Photo, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Fans pour onto the field at the Oakland Coliseum after the Oakland A's beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 3-2 and won their third straight World Series, Oct. 17, 1974, in Oakland. (AP Photo, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Athletics had long ago carved out a Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy as one of Major League Baseball's most successful — and sad-sack — franchises. Under their belts: nine World Series titles and 19 seasons of futility punctuated by 100 or more losses.This, though, is different. Now, legions of A's fans view the team as the sport's most treacherous under the ownership of billionaire John Fisher, an heir of the family that founded The Gap in 1969 — one year after the A's moved to Oakland from Kansas City.Just a few years after embracing “Rooted In Oakland” as their motto, the A’s this week are coming to the end of their 57 see-sawing seasons in a city regularly overshadowed by the mystique of its storied neighbor, San Francisco.“I know these times coming to the games are always going to be among the best years of my life," longtime A's fan Will MacNeil, 40, rued as he contemplated an ending that is crushing a community's soul. “And for a billionaire owner to rip it away from me, it's frustrating.”<h2>A baseball team that has moved twice moves again</h2>The A's exodus from Oakland will give the team the dubious distinction of being the first Major League Baseball franchise to have moved on four different occasions. After starting in Philadelphia in 1901, the A’s moved to Kansas City in 1955, then to Oakland in 1968, with California's capital city of Sacramento and Las Vegas next in the peripatetic pipeline.No place has been the A's home for as long as Oakland, where they're the last professional sports team in a two-county region known as the East Bay — home to 2.8 million people living across the water from San Francisco.Through the years, the baseball team became an emblem of East Bay's grit and flair. The A's glory years included the colorfully attired, mustachioed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgk-DnMM8LA">“Swingin' A's”</a>&nbsp;during the first half of the 1970s, the muscular and swaggering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL6GNcrVtvE">“Bash Brothers”</a>&nbsp;of the late 1980s, and the scrappy underdogs of the 2000s that yielded a real-life fairy tale&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4QPVo0UIzc">in the film, “Moneyball,”</a>&nbsp;based on the Michael Lewis book that ushered in the era of data-driven analysis.Through those decades, the A's stadium — the now-crumbling Oakland Coliseum — became an East Bay hub where people of all races, ages, incomes and backgrounds rallied around a common cause.“It was really like the public square," lifelong A's fan Jim Zelinski said earlier this year. His father brought him to the team's first game at the Oakland Coliseum on April 17, 1968 — a 4-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles before a crowd of 50,164."I remember my dad telling me how sports can bring everybody together, creating a sense of pride and identity,” he said.Rooting for the A's connected everyone from longshore workers at Oakland's bustling port to the tech geeks of Silicon Valley to hippies from nearby Berkeley to technology to subversives forged in the cauldron of a city where Huey Newton started the Black Panthers and Sonny Barger led a notorious chapter of the Hells Angels.“The A’s are such an indelible part of this community,” Zelinski said. “Everybody was so proud of not only the teams, but there was also this sense of, ‘Hey, this is us! This is the East Bay!’”<h2>A storied ballpark is left behind</h2>The Coliseum, lovingly known as baseball's “Last Dive Bar"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/02/sports/baseball/oakland-coliseum.html">after a 2019 story</a>&nbsp;in The New York Times drew that analogy, is a remnant of the 1960s when cities built stadiums designed to be used for both baseball and football. Its deteriorating condition is why Fisher began looking to build a new stadium for the A's soon after he bought the team for $180 million in 2006.For all the derision aimed at the facility, the Coliseum has been the site for three of the 24 perfect games thrown in baseball history, and it's the place where Rickey Henderson set the record for career stolen bases. It also has been the been the backdrop for the four World Series championships the A's won in Oakland; only the Yankees, with seven championships, have won more since 1968. Seven winners of the American League's Most Valuable Player award have starred for the Oakland A's, as have five pitchers who won the league's Cy Young award.Three of the A's World Series title were won in consecutive years under the ownership of Charles O. “Charlie” Finley, who brought the team to Oakland from Missouri.Finley brought his mule “Charlie O” with him to serve as the team mascot and made an unsuccessful push to get the leagues to use orange baseballs and allow designated runners. But before selling the A's in 1980, Finley also pushed for night games during the World Series so more people could watch the games on TV and the designated hitter rule so fans wouldn't have to watch pitchers try to hit. The former is a staple today, as is the later — though purists still debate it.Finley died in 1996, long before the 50-year reunion of the 1974 World Series champions held in June. But his niece, Nancy Finley, flew in from Texas to represent the family during the ceremony at the Coliseum, where she worked for much of the 1970s. It will likely be her last visit; she can't bear the thought of attending the A's final game in Oakland on Thursday.“I wouldn't want to be there. It would be too hard,” Nancy Finley said. “I can't stop having flashbacks whenever I go back there. I have every section, row and seat memorized.”<h2>The bond between fans and a community is strong</h2>Other beloved sports teams have spurned their devoted fans by moving elsewhere through the decades, including the baseball's Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants in 1958 and the National Football League's Colts, whose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N3oH7KHoKc">moving vans left Baltimore for Indianapolis</a>&nbsp;in 1984 during the middle of the night.But none of them have been jilted in quite the same way as the East Bay.“It’s taken so long for this move to evolve that it’s been like a slow death eating me up very single day,” said A’s fan Mike Silva, 72, wiping away tears as he showed some of his old ticket stubs.“You can still cheer for them after the move, but you are just gong to be cheering for the uniform,” he said. “It’s not the same. ”The NFL's Raiders already turned their back on Oakland twice. They did it first in 1982 when they moved to Los Angeles before coming back in 1995, only to leave for Las Vegas in 2020 — the year after the National Basketball Association's Warriors hopped over the bay to San Francisco.After the A's decided to follow the Raiders to Las Vegas, Fisher poured more salt into Oakland fans' wounds. Rather than stay in the Coliseum, Fisher chose to move the A's 85 miles northeast to a minor-league ballpark in Sacramento for at least the next three years while waiting for the new stadium in Nevada to be built. Hundreds of A's employees and Coliseum concession workers, including some who had been there for more than 40 years, will be laid off when the A's leave Oakland behind.On Monday, after staying fairly mum during the final season, Fisher wrote an open letter to fans and the community. His words echoed with regret.“The A’s are part of the fabric of Oakland and the East Bay and the entire Bay Area,” Fisher wrote. “I know there is great disappointment, even bitterness. ... I can tell you this from my heart: we tried. Staying in Oakland was our goal. It was our mission, and we failed to achieve it. And for that I am genuinely sorry.”<h2>Some are coming out to the bitter end</h2>Many devout A's fans have been boycotting games in disgust. Those who still come, like Will MacNeil, regularly lead chants of “Sell the team!'" before lobbing a profanity at Fisher.MacNeil, known as “Right-Field Will” after being a fixture in the Coliseum's bleachers for nearly 20 years, has accumulated about 200 A's jerseys during his fandom. He estimates only 20 fit him now because of the weight he put on while drowning his sorrow about the team's move in beers."I know I shouldn’t have been because it’s only sports, but this move really destroyed me,” MacNeil said as he cheered the A's on to a victory in May.Zelinski, the fan who attended the A's first game in 1968, spent nearly 30 years fighting to keep sports teams in Oakland. When the season started, he still didn't want to believe it would all be to no avail.“I had some of the greatest memories of my life at the Oakland Coliseum,” Zelinski, 65, said in April. “The A's are such an irreplaceable part of the East Bay culture that I don't think people can quite grasp what incredible sadness there is going to be like at that final game in September."He will never find out. After a long battle with bladder cancer, Jim Zelinski died June 7 — the same day that A's outfielder JJ Bleday slugged a homer in the bottom of the ninth to catapult the team to a 2-1 victory.Here in Oakland, as a quiet end approaches, that sets us up to leave you with&nbsp;<a href="https://mason.gmu.edu/~rmatz/giamatti.html">an observation</a>&nbsp;that the former baseball commissioner, A. Bartlett Giamatti, once made about the sport. It hangs over the community this week like a misplaced curveball: “It breaks your heart. It is designed to break your heart.”

City of Oakland coming to grips with departure of its baseball team

The Barton Community College men's golf team finished 8th overall today at the two-day Bent Tree Intercollegiate held in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Opening with a 319, the Cougars shot a solid 18-over 306 in Monday's afternoon round before following with a 315 for a combined 76-over 940 score.

Barton will host its next competition on October 7-8 in the Barton Invitational held at Junction City's Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/chevallier_martin_dyh2">Martin Chevallier</a>&nbsp;led eight Cougar entries in the meet by placing 12th at 6-over 222 by posting rounds of 74, and even par 72, and a Tuesday morning card of 76.

Placing 28th in the 61-man field was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lambert_kaleb_aib9">Kaleb Lambert</a>&nbsp;with consistent rounds of 77-76-77 for a 14-over 230.

<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/reynolds_talon_qxp0">Talon Reynolds</a>' consistent 79 rounds on Monday were followed by an 84 to finish 42nd at 26-over 242.

A trio of Cougars finished three strokes apart,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/moore_mason_l7zd">Mason Moore</a>&nbsp;in 47th at 31-over 247,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/cauvin-piacentini_matteu_qskk">Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini</a>&nbsp;climbing three spots from the final round into 49th at 33-over 249, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lucke_cooper_z9a3">Cooper Lucke</a>&nbsp;52nd at 34-over 250.

Rounding out the Barton entries were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/suwanmuang_wintakorn_ndsr">Wintakorn Suwanmuang</a>&nbsp;in 54th at 38-over 254 with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/fitzpatrick_easton_zdyq">Easton Fitzpatrick</a>&nbsp;58th on a 52-over 268 accumulation.

Barton Results:12th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/chevallier_martin_dyh2">Martin Chevallier</a>&nbsp;+6, 222 (74-72-76)28th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lambert_kaleb_aib9">Kaleb Lambert</a>&nbsp;+14, 230 (77-76-77)42nd&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/reynolds_talon_qxp0">Talon Reynolds</a>&nbsp;+26, 242 (79-79-84)47th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/moore_mason_l7zd">Mason Moore</a>&nbsp;+31, 247 (83-81-83)49th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/cauvin-piacentini_matteu_qskk">Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini</a>&nbsp;+33, 249 (89-79-81)52nd&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lucke_cooper_z9a3">Cooper Lucke</a>&nbsp;+34, 250 (79-80-91)54th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/suwanmuang_wintakorn_ndsr">Wintakorn Suwanmuang</a>&nbsp;+38, 254 (92-81-81)58th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/fitzpatrick_easton_zdyq">Easton Fitzpatrick</a>&nbsp;+52, 268 (92-85-91)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727268239224.jpeg" alt="Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini" />
 <figcaption>Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoThe Barton Community College men's golf team finished 8th overall today at the two-day Bent Tree Intercollegiate held in Council Bluffs, Iowa.Opening with a 319, the Cougars shot a solid 18-over 306 in Monday's afternoon round before following with a 315 for a combined 76-over 940 score.Barton will host its next competition on October 7-8 in the Barton Invitational held at Junction City's Rolling Meadows Golf Course.<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/chevallier_martin_dyh2">Martin Chevallier</a>&nbsp;led eight Cougar entries in the meet by placing 12th at 6-over 222 by posting rounds of 74, and even par 72, and a Tuesday morning card of 76.Placing 28th in the 61-man field was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lambert_kaleb_aib9">Kaleb Lambert</a>&nbsp;with consistent rounds of 77-76-77 for a 14-over 230.<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/reynolds_talon_qxp0">Talon Reynolds</a>' consistent 79 rounds on Monday were followed by an 84 to finish 42nd at 26-over 242.A trio of Cougars finished three strokes apart,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/moore_mason_l7zd">Mason Moore</a>&nbsp;in 47th at 31-over 247,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/cauvin-piacentini_matteu_qskk">Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini</a>&nbsp;climbing three spots from the final round into 49th at 33-over 249, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lucke_cooper_z9a3">Cooper Lucke</a>&nbsp;52nd at 34-over 250.Rounding out the Barton entries were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/suwanmuang_wintakorn_ndsr">Wintakorn Suwanmuang</a>&nbsp;in 54th at 38-over 254 with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/fitzpatrick_easton_zdyq">Easton Fitzpatrick</a>&nbsp;58th on a 52-over 268 accumulation.Barton Results:12th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/chevallier_martin_dyh2">Martin Chevallier</a>&nbsp;+6, 222 (74-72-76)28th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lambert_kaleb_aib9">Kaleb Lambert</a>&nbsp;+14, 230 (77-76-77)42nd&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/reynolds_talon_qxp0">Talon Reynolds</a>&nbsp;+26, 242 (79-79-84)47th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/moore_mason_l7zd">Mason Moore</a>&nbsp;+31, 247 (83-81-83)49th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/cauvin-piacentini_matteu_qskk">Matteu Cauvin-Piacentini</a>&nbsp;+33, 249 (89-79-81)52nd&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/lucke_cooper_z9a3">Cooper Lucke</a>&nbsp;+34, 250 (79-80-91)54th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/suwanmuang_wintakorn_ndsr">Wintakorn Suwanmuang</a>&nbsp;+38, 254 (92-81-81)58th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/mgolf/2024-25/bios/fitzpatrick_easton_zdyq">Easton Fitzpatrick</a>&nbsp;+52, 268 (92-85-91)

Barton men's golf finishes 8th at Bent Tree Intercollegiate

With a limit on how many varsity meets his players can attend, Great Bend High School tennis coach Zachary Bartel made some changes to his lineup for Tuesday's meet in McPherson. The Lady Panthers scored 17 points to place ninth out of 10 teams in action. McPherson dominated the meet with 73 points, followed by Garden City with 64 points, and Goddard-Eisenhower with 53 points.

Paige Stacey led the way with a ninth-place finish in the open singles bracket. She lost her first match against Eisenhower 8-2 but rebounded to three straight wins. She downed an opponent from Salina South and two from McPherson all by an 8-1 margin. Addi Gotts also saw her first varsity action in the singles bracket. She finished the day at 0-3 for 20th place.

Darcy Feist and Mac Lindberg stayed together as the lead Panther doubles team in the open bracket. The girls opened strong with a 8-7 (0) loss to the eventual third-place finishers from Garden City. They lost another tie break 8-7 (4) to the 12th-place finishers from McPherson. After an 8-2 win over Liberal, the girls fell to Hays 8-2 in the 13th-place match. Kylie McCormick played with Beth Hammeke for the first time in the other varsity doubles spot. The pair finished at 0-3 for 20th.

The Lady Panthers head to Salina South on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727270029460.jpeg" alt="Paige Stacey" />
 <figcaption>Paige Stacey</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post SportsWith a limit on how many varsity meets his players can attend, Great Bend High School tennis coach Zachary Bartel made some changes to his lineup for Tuesday's meet in McPherson. The Lady Panthers scored 17 points to place ninth out of 10 teams in action. McPherson dominated the meet with 73 points, followed by Garden City with 64 points, and Goddard-Eisenhower with 53 points.Paige Stacey led the way with a ninth-place finish in the open singles bracket. She lost her first match against Eisenhower 8-2 but rebounded to three straight wins. She downed an opponent from Salina South and two from McPherson all by an 8-1 margin. Addi Gotts also saw her first varsity action in the singles bracket. She finished the day at 0-3 for 20th place.Darcy Feist and Mac Lindberg stayed together as the lead Panther doubles team in the open bracket. The girls opened strong with a 8-7 (0) loss to the eventual third-place finishers from Garden City. They lost another tie break 8-7 (4) to the 12th-place finishers from McPherson. After an 8-2 win over Liberal, the girls fell to Hays 8-2 in the 13th-place match. Kylie McCormick played with Beth Hammeke for the first time in the other varsity doubles spot. The pair finished at 0-3 for 20th.The Lady Panthers head to Salina South on Thursday.

Different Lady Panther lineup finishes ninth at McPherson meet

LOS ANGELES (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/padres-vs-dodgers/2024/09/24/746093/final/video" target="_blank">Manny Machado</a>&nbsp;and the San Diego Padres wrote their own Hollywood ending on the home field of their biggest rivals Tuesday night. San Diego stunned the Los Angeles Dodgers with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/padres-vs-dodgers/2024/09/24/746093/final/video" target="_blank">a game-ending triple play</a>&nbsp;to preserve a 4-2 victory over the NL West leaders that clinched a playoff spot for the Padres. The party was on in the Padres’ darkened clubhouse, with music pumping and lights flashing as players drenched each other in alcohol. With the Padres leading by three runs in the ninth inning, Kiké Hernández hit an RBI single that cut it to 4-2 and put runners at first and second. Miguel Rojas hit a sharp grounder to Machado at third base, and he stepped on the bag before going around the horn for the triple play. The Dodgers challenged the out call at second base, but the ruling was upheld after a video review.

HOUSTON (AP) — Trailing the Seattle Mariners by 10 games in mid-June, the Houston Astros were undoubtedly down. But first-year manager Joe Espada worked every day to remind his team it was far from out.&nbsp; The Astros clinched their fourth straight AL West title with a 4-3 win over the Mariners on Tuesday night, overcoming a terrible start to reach the playoffs for an eighth consecutive year.&nbsp;The Astros are the first team to win the AL West in four straight seasons since Oakland won five times in a row from 1971-75. It’s the first time they’ve won four consecutive division titles, after winning three in a row on two previous occasions (1997-99 and 2017-19).

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers will be without wide receiver Adam Thielen for at least four weeks after the veteran was placed on injured reserve Tuesday with a hamstring injury. Thielen was injured while extending to make a diving touchdown catch near the end of the second quarter of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/panthers-raiders-score-3142ca2a23d36203c4d7b5c7d752ddd0">Carolina’s 36-22 win</a>&nbsp;over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. The 34-year-old did not return in the second half. Jonathan Mingo, a second-round pick in 2023, or rookie first-round pick Xavier Legette will likely replace Thielen in the starting lineup on Sunday when the Panthers host the Cincinnati Bengals.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Kelsey Plum scored 29 points, A’ja Wilson had 24 points and 13 rebounds, and the Las Vegas Aces closed out the Seattle Storm 83-76 on Tuesday night to advance to the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. Las Vegas, which has won 11 straight home games in the playoffs, swept the best-of-three series to set up a rematch of the 2023 WNBA Finals against top-seeded New York starting Sunday. The Aces are trying to become the first team to win three titles in a row since Houston won four straight from 1997-2000 in the league’s first four seasons. Wilson set a WNBA record by recording 20-plus points and at least 10 rebounds in 13 career playoff games, passing Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker. The WNBA MVP, who missed her first six shots in Game 1, went 5 of 7 from the field in the first quarter and finished 9 of 17.

TUESDAY'S SCORES Major League Baseball (Kansas City and Detroit are tied for the final two Wild Card spots, both two games ahead of Minnesota) American League

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718617262520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/padres-vs-dodgers/2024/09/24/746093/final/video" target="_blank">Manny Machado</a>&nbsp;and the San Diego Padres wrote their own Hollywood ending on the home field of their biggest rivals Tuesday night. San Diego stunned the Los Angeles Dodgers with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/padres-vs-dodgers/2024/09/24/746093/final/video" target="_blank">a game-ending triple play</a>&nbsp;to preserve a 4-2 victory over the NL West leaders that clinched a playoff spot for the Padres. The party was on in the Padres’ darkened clubhouse, with music pumping and lights flashing as players drenched each other in alcohol. With the Padres leading by three runs in the ninth inning, Kiké Hernández hit an RBI single that cut it to 4-2 and put runners at first and second. Miguel Rojas hit a sharp grounder to Machado at third base, and he stepped on the bag before going around the horn for the triple play. The Dodgers challenged the out call at second base, but the ruling was upheld after a video review.HOUSTON (AP) — Trailing the Seattle Mariners by 10 games in mid-June, the Houston Astros were undoubtedly down. But first-year manager Joe Espada worked every day to remind his team it was far from out.&nbsp; The Astros clinched their fourth straight AL West title with a 4-3 win over the Mariners on Tuesday night, overcoming a terrible start to reach the playoffs for an eighth consecutive year.&nbsp;The Astros are the first team to win the AL West in four straight seasons since Oakland won five times in a row from 1971-75. It’s the first time they’ve won four consecutive division titles, after winning three in a row on two previous occasions (1997-99 and 2017-19).CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers will be without wide receiver Adam Thielen for at least four weeks after the veteran was placed on injured reserve Tuesday with a hamstring injury. Thielen was injured while extending to make a diving touchdown catch near the end of the second quarter of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/panthers-raiders-score-3142ca2a23d36203c4d7b5c7d752ddd0">Carolina’s 36-22 win</a>&nbsp;over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. The 34-year-old did not return in the second half. Jonathan Mingo, a second-round pick in 2023, or rookie first-round pick Xavier Legette will likely replace Thielen in the starting lineup on Sunday when the Panthers host the Cincinnati Bengals.LAS VEGAS (AP) — Kelsey Plum scored 29 points, A’ja Wilson had 24 points and 13 rebounds, and the Las Vegas Aces closed out the Seattle Storm 83-76 on Tuesday night to advance to the semifinals of the WNBA playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. Las Vegas, which has won 11 straight home games in the playoffs, swept the best-of-three series to set up a rematch of the 2023 WNBA Finals against top-seeded New York starting Sunday. The Aces are trying to become the first team to win three titles in a row since Houston won four straight from 1997-2000 in the league’s first four seasons. Wilson set a WNBA record by recording 20-plus points and at least 10 rebounds in 13 career playoff games, passing Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker. The WNBA MVP, who missed her first six shots in Game 1, went 5 of 7 from the field in the first quarter and finished 9 of 17.TUESDAY'S SCORES Major League Baseball (Kansas City and Detroit are tied for the final two Wild Card spots, both two games ahead of Minnesota) American LeagueKansas City 1, Washington 0 (10 inns)Detroit 2, Tampa Bay 1Boston 6, Toronto 5Baltimore 5, NY Yankees 3Houston 4, Seattle 3Oakland 5, Texas 4Chicago White Sox 3, LA Angels 2National LeagueChicago Cubs 10, Philadelphia 4Milwaukee 7, Pittsburgh 2Atlanta 5, NY Mets 1St. Louis 7, Colorado 3San Diego 4, LA Dodgers 2San Francisco 11, Arizona 0InterleagueCleveland 6, Cincinnati 1Miami 4, Minnesota 1

Wednesday's Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

WASHINGTON (AP) — Kyle Isbel snapped Kansas City's 27-inning scoreless streak by sprinting home on a throwing error in the 10th inning, Cole Ragans gave up three hits in six innings, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.

Isbel, the Royals' automatic runner to begin the 10th, reached third on Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield single to short and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1838764184055513162">crossed the plate on Nasim Nuñez's low throw</a>&nbsp;to first to end Kansas City's seven-game slide.

Kansas City and Detroit are both 83-74 but the Royals own the head-to-head tiebreaker. Both teams are 1 1/2 games up on Minnesota.

Kyle Finnegan (3-7) escaped the 10th without further damage.

Lucas Erceg worked a clean 10th for his 12th save and ninth with the Royals, striking out Joey Gallo after the Nationals slugger hooked a 3-2 offering just to the foul side of the right-field foul pole.

Ragans struck out six in his fourth consecutive outing of six innings or more to lower his September ERA to 1.08.

Kris Bubic stranded runner on third in the seventh, Sam Long pitched a scoreless eighth and Angel Zerpa (2-0) threw a perfect ninth to get the game to extra innings. 

TRAINER'S ROOM Royals: RHP Hunter Harvey (back) will be shut down for the season. The reliever hasn't appeared since Aug. 4, and will get another medical opinion. “He's going to go see someone in Dallas to see if they can find something different, but by all accounts, we think it's just going to be rest” that he needs, said manager Matt Quatraro. ... RHP James McArthur (right elbow), who last pitched on Sept. 16, also won't return this season. ... RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring) remains on track to return from the injured list to make Wednesday’s start, Quatraro said.

UP NEXT Lorenzen (7-6, 3.43 ERA) will try to continue his excellent form since joining the Royals from Texas at the trade deadline. He has a 1.85 ERA and 2-0 record in five starts with Kansas City. He'll face rookie lefty DJ Herz (4-8, 4.30).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727234094702.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Kyle Isbel runs towards home to score on a throwing error by Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nunez during the 10th inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Kyle Isbel runs towards home to score on a throwing error by Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nunez during the 10th inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Kyle Isbel snapped Kansas City's 27-inning scoreless streak by sprinting home on a throwing error in the 10th inning, Cole Ragans gave up three hits in six innings, and the Royals held on to the second American League wild card with a 1-0 victory over the Washington Nationals on Tuesday night.Isbel, the Royals' automatic runner to begin the 10th, reached third on Bobby Witt Jr.’s infield single to short and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1838764184055513162">crossed the plate on Nasim Nuñez's low throw</a>&nbsp;to first to end Kansas City's seven-game slide.Kansas City and Detroit are both 83-74 but the Royals own the head-to-head tiebreaker. Both teams are 1 1/2 games up on Minnesota.Kyle Finnegan (3-7) escaped the 10th without further damage.Lucas Erceg worked a clean 10th for his 12th save and ninth with the Royals, striking out Joey Gallo after the Nationals slugger hooked a 3-2 offering just to the foul side of the right-field foul pole.Ragans struck out six in his fourth consecutive outing of six innings or more to lower his September ERA to 1.08.Kris Bubic stranded runner on third in the seventh, Sam Long pitched a scoreless eighth and Angel Zerpa (2-0) threw a perfect ninth to get the game to extra innings. TRAINER'S ROOM Royals: RHP Hunter Harvey (back) will be shut down for the season. The reliever hasn't appeared since Aug. 4, and will get another medical opinion. “He's going to go see someone in Dallas to see if they can find something different, but by all accounts, we think it's just going to be rest” that he needs, said manager Matt Quatraro. ... RHP James McArthur (right elbow), who last pitched on Sept. 16, also won't return this season. ... RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring) remains on track to return from the injured list to make Wednesday’s start, Quatraro said.UP NEXT Lorenzen (7-6, 3.43 ERA) will try to continue his excellent form since joining the Royals from Texas at the trade deadline. He has a 1.85 ERA and 2-0 record in five starts with Kansas City. He'll face rookie lefty DJ Herz (4-8, 4.30).