KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani threw the fastest pitch of his career at 101.7 mph and worked two efficient innings in his third mound start for the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing one hit and one walk against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.

It was the first start of more than one inning this season for the two-way superstar, who is working as an opener as he eases his way back into pitching.

“Getting Shohei through two innings throwing the ball the way he did is certainly a positive,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I didn’t know it was 102 (mph). I just saw 100, so, no, I didn’t expect that. Now I’m going to keep my fingers crossed that he feels good coming out of today.”

Ohtani went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts as the leadoff batter in the Dodgers' 9-5 loss.

The three-time MVP did not pitch last season, his first with the Dodgers, while recovering from Tommy John surgery. He made 86 mound starts over five seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, going 38-19 with a 3.01 ERA.

On Saturday, Ohtani threw first-pitch strikes to all seven batters he faced and finished with 27 pitches, 20 for strikes.

“I’m happy that I was able to attack the zone,” Ohtani said through an interpreter. “There’s some little things that I still need to work on, but overall I’m pretty happy.”

He allowed a one-out single to Bobby Witt Jr. in the first and walked Maikel Garcia before throwing the 101.7 mph fastball on an 0-2 count to Vinnie Pasquantino, who grounded into a double play.

“It’s something I don’t think I would be able to do in a live BP setting,” Ohtani said. “It’s nice to be able to hit this velo and see how my body reacts.”

Ohtani retired the side in order in the second, fanning rookie Jac Caglianone on an 89 mph slider.

“I think you can’t take the competitor out of the player,” Roberts said. “There’s a little bit of stress and that’s when you start to see 100s and trying to bully guys. No one knows himself better than he does and I thought he was in control. Still good to see triple digits.”

The 30-year-old has 29 homers this season as Los Angeles' primary designated hitter.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani threw the fastest pitch of his career at 101.7 mph and worked two efficient innings in his third mound start for the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing one hit and one walk against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.It was the first start of more than one inning this season for the two-way superstar, who is working as an opener as he eases his way back into pitching.“Getting Shohei through two innings throwing the ball the way he did is certainly a positive,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I didn’t know it was 102 (mph). I just saw 100, so, no, I didn’t expect that. Now I’m going to keep my fingers crossed that he feels good coming out of today.”Ohtani went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts as the leadoff batter in the Dodgers' 9-5 loss.The three-time MVP did not pitch last season, his first with the Dodgers, while recovering from Tommy John surgery. He made 86 mound starts over five seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, going 38-19 with a 3.01 ERA.On Saturday, Ohtani threw first-pitch strikes to all seven batters he faced and finished with 27 pitches, 20 for strikes.“I’m happy that I was able to attack the zone,” Ohtani said through an interpreter. “There’s some little things that I still need to work on, but overall I’m pretty happy.”He allowed a one-out single to Bobby Witt Jr. in the first and walked Maikel Garcia before throwing the 101.7 mph fastball on an 0-2 count to Vinnie Pasquantino, who grounded into a double play.“It’s something I don’t think I would be able to do in a live BP setting,” Ohtani said. “It’s nice to be able to hit this velo and see how my body reacts.”Ohtani retired the side in order in the second, fanning rookie Jac Caglianone on an 89 mph slider.“I think you can’t take the competitor out of the player,” Roberts said. “There’s a little bit of stress and that’s when you start to see 100s and trying to bully guys. No one knows himself better than he does and I thought he was in control. Still good to see triple digits.”The 30-year-old has 29 homers this season as Los Angeles' primary designated hitter.

Shohei Ohtani throws fastest pitch of career at 101.7 mph in 3rd mound start for Dodgers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered, doubled and drove in a career high-tying five runs, and the Kansas City Royals beat Shohei Ohtani and the Los Angeles Dodgers 9-5 on Saturday to snap an 11-game home losing streak.

Ohtani made his third start of the season and&nbsp;threw the fastest pitch&nbsp;of his career, a 101.7 mph fastball that induced an inning-ending double-play grounder by Pasquantino in the first.

The Dodgers' two-way superstar threw 27 pitches in two scoreless innings. He is working as an opener as he eases back into pitching following Tommy John surgery in 2023. Ohtani went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts as LA's leadoff batter.

Pasquantino’s&nbsp;430-foot, three-run blast&nbsp;to right-center off Ben Casparius (6-2) capped a four-run fifth inning for the Royals, who won at Kaufmann Stadium for the first time since May 31. They ended a six-game skid overall.

Freddie Freeman went 3-for-3 with a homer for the Dodgers, whose five-game winning streak ended. Infielder Miguel Rojas pitched the eighth.

Seth Lugo (5-5) threw 5 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing four hits and five walks while striking out eight.

Casparius relieved Ohtani in the third and quickly allowed three hits and a pair of runs on Maikel Garcia’s two-out double off the left-field wall.

Bobby Witt Jr. hit an RBI single in the fifth before Pasquantino went deep. Pasquantino added a two-run double in the seventh.

Jonathan India and Witt each had four hits as the top four Royals batters finished with 11 hits and eight runs.

The Royals' four-run fifth was their biggest inning at home since they scored four in the eighth against the Chicago White Sox on May 8.

The Royals' 15 home-field home runs are the fewest in the majors.

The Dodgers plan to use an opener for Sunday’s series finale against Royals LHP Kris Bubic (6-5, 2.16 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751195639768.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hits a two-run double during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino hits a two-run double during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered, doubled and drove in a career high-tying five runs, and the Kansas City Royals beat Shohei Ohtani and the Los Angeles Dodgers 9-5 on Saturday to snap an 11-game home losing streak.Ohtani made his third start of the season and&nbsp;threw the fastest pitch&nbsp;of his career, a 101.7 mph fastball that induced an inning-ending double-play grounder by Pasquantino in the first.The Dodgers' two-way superstar threw 27 pitches in two scoreless innings. He is working as an opener as he eases back into pitching following Tommy John surgery in 2023. Ohtani went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts as LA's leadoff batter.Pasquantino’s&nbsp;430-foot, three-run blast&nbsp;to right-center off Ben Casparius (6-2) capped a four-run fifth inning for the Royals, who won at Kaufmann Stadium for the first time since May 31. They ended a six-game skid overall.Freddie Freeman went 3-for-3 with a homer for the Dodgers, whose five-game winning streak ended. Infielder Miguel Rojas pitched the eighth.Seth Lugo (5-5) threw 5 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing four hits and five walks while striking out eight.Casparius relieved Ohtani in the third and quickly allowed three hits and a pair of runs on Maikel Garcia’s two-out double off the left-field wall.Bobby Witt Jr. hit an RBI single in the fifth before Pasquantino went deep. Pasquantino added a two-run double in the seventh.Jonathan India and Witt each had four hits as the top four Royals batters finished with 11 hits and eight runs.LA scored four runs in the ninth.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Royals' four-run fifth was their biggest inning at home since they scored four in the eighth against the Chicago White Sox on May 8.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals' 15 home-field home runs are the fewest in the majors.<h2>Up next</h2>The Dodgers plan to use an opener for Sunday’s series finale against Royals LHP Kris Bubic (6-5, 2.16 ERA).

Pasquantino's big day helps Royals beat Dodgers 9-5 to snap 11-game home skid

UNDATED (AP) — BYU signee AJ Dybantsa and Kansas recruit Darryn Peterson are the headliners when it comes to looking at potential NBA lottery candidates for the 2026 draft. The 6-foot-9 Dybantsa has been a favorite to be the No. 1 overall draft pick as the top-ranked recruit for ESPN, On3 and Rivals. Peterson is a 6-5 combo guard who headlines 247Sports' recruiting rankings. Duke signee Cameron Boozer, Tennessee's Nate Ament and North Carolina's Caleb Wilson are all potential one-and-done picks with high-end pro potential. Other names to watch include Kentucky's Jayden Quaintaince and Alabama's Labaron Philon as sophomores returning to the college ranks.

Here's an early look next summer's potential lottery prospects:

The 6-foot-9 forward chose the Cougars over Kansas, North Carolina and Alabama. Athleticism and versatility shine through his rangy scoring skillset, notably when he attacks off the dribble and finishes at the rim. The Massachusetts native spent last year with Utah Prep and is on this summer's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usab.com/news/2025/06/2025-usa-basketball-mens-u19-national-team-announced">USA Basketball Under-19 National Team</a>&nbsp;for the FIBA World Cup.

The 6-5 guard from Ohio offers perimeter size with ability to play on or off the ball. He can attack off the dribble or step outside, offering potential to overwhelm smaller guards and impact games defensively. Peterson played last season with Prolific Prep in California and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-allamerican-boys-391dc7715513b0c4411fcbc5bd1f6279">was co-MVP of the McDonald's All-American game</a>.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/duke-boozer-twins-final-four-bc2f0b8daf0d72a844492d7d4f599662">The 6-9 forward joined twin Cayden</a>&nbsp;in winning a high school national title and fourth straight Florida state title. The son of former Duke and NBA forward Carlos Boozer showed his inside-out game (22 points, 16 rebounds, six assists) leading the U.S. past the World team in the Nike Hoop Summit. He joined Peterson as the McDonald's game co-MVP.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tennessee-vols-barnes-nate-ament-512a7abaa1a8ec13b47ecc8edd550e21">The 6-9 forward</a>&nbsp;is a McDonald's All-American and Gatorade player of the year for Virginia with versatile skills. He'll improve as he adds strength to his lean frame, though he stands out with ballhandling and shooting range.

The 6-9 forward from Atlanta and McDonald's All-American offers two-way potential with his athleticism and length, including as a shot blocker. The McDonald's All-American announced his UNC commitment&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/UA79NsEC3vY?si=tEraEj0ZEd2cDOMo&amp;t=141">on TNT's “Inside The NBA” show</a>&nbsp;alongside former NBA players Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith.

ESPN and 247Sports rank Cenac as the nation's top center, offering rangy skills and outside shooting that made him the MVP of the NBPA Top 100 camp in summer 2024.&nbsp;<a href="https://uhcougars.com/news/2024/11/26/mens-basketball-chris-cenac-jr-joins-mens-basketball">Houston coach Kelvin Sampson has said</a>&nbsp;the McDonald's All-American is “not a big man's big man... he is a basketball player who happens to be 6-foot-10.”

7. Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers (Australia)

The versatile 6-8 wing from Mexico is part of the National Basketball League's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nextstars.com.au/players/karim-lopez">“Next Stars” program designed to develop high-end prospects</a>, averaging 9.6 points and 4.7 assists in his 2024-25 debut season. He turns 18 in December.

The 6-9 forward was a top-10 recruit last year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkLZ5Zfgj2Q">entering Arizona State</a>, where he averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.6 blocks. He later transferred to join the Wildcats.

The 6-3 McDonald’s All-American is big signee for Pat Kelsey entering Year 2 of his tenure with the Cardinals, ranking as the No. 1 point guard prospect for Rivals. He joined Dybantsa in making the U.S. U-19 team.

The 6-2 Acuff is the top point guard prospect for 247Sports (No. 5 overall) and ESPN (No. 7). The McDonald's All-American operates smoothly in the pick-and-roll with the ability to attack defenders off the dribble and from 3-point range.

ESPN's ninth-ranked recruit offers a sturdy frame (roughly 6-5 and 210 pounds) and versatile athleticism while being known for a high-motor style. He had 24 points for the World team against the U.S. in the Nike Hoop Summit in April.

12. Dash Daniels, Melbourne United (Australia)

Like Lopez,&nbsp;<a href="https://nbl.com.au/news/daniels-dashes-to-nbl-next-stars">the younger brother of Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels</a>&nbsp;is will play for the NBL's “Next Stars” program. Dash is a 6-6 point guard who has been through NBA Academy Australia.

The 6-6 guard withdrew from this year's draft and must add strength to a 175-pound frame. But there's clear upside with his explosive scoring potential, such&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wNjtwA9MTQ">as hitting six first-half 3s</a>&nbsp;out of nowhere against Auburn in December.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JREpskXjJUE">The 6-4 freshman point guard</a>&nbsp;was a last-minute draft withdrawal. He averaged 10.6 points and 3.8 assists for an Elite Eight team that just lost Associated Press first-team All-American Mark Sears from the backcourt.

—ALIJAH ARENAS: The son of former NBA guard Gilbert Arenas is a McDonald's All-American known for scoring and court vision, but the 6-6 guard's status is unclear as he's still working back from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alijah-arenas-usc-basketball-car-crash-cfcf1c0934f1e7c4f4a147ac1d358c91">an April truck accident</a>&nbsp;that had him placed in a medically induced coma. Arenas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alijah-arenas-gilbert-usc-crash-d9146b4fe7e820a77a96c170a215d218">avoided major injury</a>&nbsp;and said this week he works out daily, with the plan of soon joining USC summer workouts.

— MILES BYRD: The 6-7 guard from San Diego State withdrew from the draft after averaging 12.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists as a redshirt sophomore.

— IAN JACKSON: The 6-4 guard averaged 11.9 points while shooting 39.5% from 3-point range at North Carolina as a five-star freshman before transferring to St. John’s.

— YAXEL LENDEBORG: The 6-9, 240-pound forward has gone from junior college to UAB and now Michigan. He withdrew from the draft after averaging 15.8 points and 11.0 rebounds in two seasons with the Blazers.

— TAHAAD PETTIFORD: The 6-1 freshman averaged 11.6 points and shot 36.6% on 3s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lun0S9w_3I">for Auburn's Final Four team</a>. He's set for a leading role after withdrawing from the draft.

— MELEEK THOMAS: The 6-4 guard averaged 33.5 points per 40 minutes with Overtime Elite. He's a McDonald's All-American who signed with Arkansas.

UNDATED (AP) — BYU signee AJ Dybantsa and Kansas recruit Darryn Peterson are the headliners when it comes to looking at potential NBA lottery candidates for the 2026 draft. The 6-foot-9 Dybantsa has been a favorite to be the No. 1 overall draft pick as the top-ranked recruit for ESPN, On3 and Rivals. Peterson is a 6-5 combo guard who headlines 247Sports' recruiting rankings. Duke signee Cameron Boozer, Tennessee's Nate Ament and North Carolina's Caleb Wilson are all potential one-and-done picks with high-end pro potential. Other names to watch include Kentucky's Jayden Quaintaince and Alabama's Labaron Philon as sophomores returning to the college ranks.Here's an early look next summer's potential lottery prospects:<h2>1. A.J. Dybantsa, BYU</h2>The 6-foot-9 forward chose the Cougars over Kansas, North Carolina and Alabama. Athleticism and versatility shine through his rangy scoring skillset, notably when he attacks off the dribble and finishes at the rim. The Massachusetts native spent last year with Utah Prep and is on this summer's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usab.com/news/2025/06/2025-usa-basketball-mens-u19-national-team-announced">USA Basketball Under-19 National Team</a>&nbsp;for the FIBA World Cup.<h2>2. Darryn Peterson, Kansas</h2>The 6-5 guard from Ohio offers perimeter size with ability to play on or off the ball. He can attack off the dribble or step outside, offering potential to overwhelm smaller guards and impact games defensively. Peterson played last season with Prolific Prep in California and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-allamerican-boys-391dc7715513b0c4411fcbc5bd1f6279">was co-MVP of the McDonald's All-American game</a>.<h2>3. Cameron Boozer, Duke</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/duke-boozer-twins-final-four-bc2f0b8daf0d72a844492d7d4f599662">The 6-9 forward joined twin Cayden</a>&nbsp;in winning a high school national title and fourth straight Florida state title. The son of former Duke and NBA forward Carlos Boozer showed his inside-out game (22 points, 16 rebounds, six assists) leading the U.S. past the World team in the Nike Hoop Summit. He joined Peterson as the McDonald's game co-MVP.<h2>4. Nate Ament, Tennessee</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/tennessee-vols-barnes-nate-ament-512a7abaa1a8ec13b47ecc8edd550e21">The 6-9 forward</a>&nbsp;is a McDonald's All-American and Gatorade player of the year for Virginia with versatile skills. He'll improve as he adds strength to his lean frame, though he stands out with ballhandling and shooting range.<h2>5. Caleb Wilson, North Carolina</h2>The 6-9 forward from Atlanta and McDonald's All-American offers two-way potential with his athleticism and length, including as a shot blocker. The McDonald's All-American announced his UNC commitment&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/UA79NsEC3vY?si=tEraEj0ZEd2cDOMo&amp;t=141">on TNT's “Inside The NBA” show</a>&nbsp;alongside former NBA players Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith.<h2>6. Chris Cenac Jr., Houston</h2>ESPN and 247Sports rank Cenac as the nation's top center, offering rangy skills and outside shooting that made him the MVP of the NBPA Top 100 camp in summer 2024.&nbsp;<a href="https://uhcougars.com/news/2024/11/26/mens-basketball-chris-cenac-jr-joins-mens-basketball">Houston coach Kelvin Sampson has said</a>&nbsp;the McDonald's All-American is “not a big man's big man... he is a basketball player who happens to be 6-foot-10.”<h2>7. Karim Lopez, New Zealand Breakers (Australia)</h2>The versatile 6-8 wing from Mexico is part of the National Basketball League's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nextstars.com.au/players/karim-lopez">“Next Stars” program designed to develop high-end prospects</a>, averaging 9.6 points and 4.7 assists in his 2024-25 debut season. He turns 18 in December.<h2>8. Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky</h2>The 6-9 forward was a top-10 recruit last year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkLZ5Zfgj2Q">entering Arizona State</a>, where he averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.6 blocks. He later transferred to join the Wildcats.<h2>9. Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville</h2>The 6-3 McDonald’s All-American is big signee for Pat Kelsey entering Year 2 of his tenure with the Cardinals, ranking as the No. 1 point guard prospect for Rivals. He joined Dybantsa in making the U.S. U-19 team.<h2>10. Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas</h2>The 6-2 Acuff is the top point guard prospect for 247Sports (No. 5 overall) and ESPN (No. 7). The McDonald's All-American operates smoothly in the pick-and-roll with the ability to attack defenders off the dribble and from 3-point range.<h2>11. Tounde Yessoufou, Baylor</h2>ESPN's ninth-ranked recruit offers a sturdy frame (roughly 6-5 and 210 pounds) and versatile athleticism while being known for a high-motor style. He had 24 points for the World team against the U.S. in the Nike Hoop Summit in April.<h2>12. Dash Daniels, Melbourne United (Australia)</h2>Like Lopez,&nbsp;<a href="https://nbl.com.au/news/daniels-dashes-to-nbl-next-stars">the younger brother of Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels</a>&nbsp;is will play for the NBL's “Next Stars” program. Dash is a 6-6 point guard who has been through NBA Academy Australia.<h2>13. Isaiah Evans, Duke</h2>The 6-6 guard withdrew from this year's draft and must add strength to a 175-pound frame. But there's clear upside with his explosive scoring potential, such&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wNjtwA9MTQ">as hitting six first-half 3s</a>&nbsp;out of nowhere against Auburn in December.<h2>14. Labaron Philon, Alabama</h2><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JREpskXjJUE">The 6-4 freshman point guard</a>&nbsp;was a last-minute draft withdrawal. He averaged 10.6 points and 3.8 assists for an Elite Eight team that just lost Associated Press first-team All-American Mark Sears from the backcourt.<h2>Others to watch (in alphabetical order):</h2>—ALIJAH ARENAS: The son of former NBA guard Gilbert Arenas is a McDonald's All-American known for scoring and court vision, but the 6-6 guard's status is unclear as he's still working back from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alijah-arenas-usc-basketball-car-crash-cfcf1c0934f1e7c4f4a147ac1d358c91">an April truck accident</a>&nbsp;that had him placed in a medically induced coma. Arenas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alijah-arenas-gilbert-usc-crash-d9146b4fe7e820a77a96c170a215d218">avoided major injury</a>&nbsp;and said this week he works out daily, with the plan of soon joining USC summer workouts.— MILES BYRD: The 6-7 guard from San Diego State withdrew from the draft after averaging 12.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists as a redshirt sophomore.— IAN JACKSON: The 6-4 guard averaged 11.9 points while shooting 39.5% from 3-point range at North Carolina as a five-star freshman before transferring to St. John’s.— YAXEL LENDEBORG: The 6-9, 240-pound forward has gone from junior college to UAB and now Michigan. He withdrew from the draft after averaging 15.8 points and 11.0 rebounds in two seasons with the Blazers.— TAHAAD PETTIFORD: The 6-1 freshman averaged 11.6 points and shot 36.6% on 3s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lun0S9w_3I">for Auburn's Final Four team</a>. He's set for a leading role after withdrawing from the draft.— MELEEK THOMAS: The 6-4 guard averaged 33.5 points per 40 minutes with Overtime Elite. He's a McDonald's All-American who signed with Arkansas.

Dybantsa, KU's Peterson, Boozer headline list of top lottery candidates for 2026 NBA draft

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani led off the game with his 29th home run and also hit an RBI triple, and Freddie Freeman stretched as he fell over to complete a game-ending double play as the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 Friday night for their fifth straight win.

Ohtani hit his major league-leading eighth leadoff homer this season, a drive off off Noah Cameron (2-4), and Max Muncy hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer for a 3-1 lead in the second.

Bobby Witt Jr.'s two-run homer against Dustin May put Kansas City ahead 4-3 in the bottom half and gave the Royals their first lead since Sunday.

Ohtani tied the score in the fifth against Cameron (2-4) with his seventh triple of the season and scored on Mookie Betts' single off Steven Cruz.

Kansas City loaded the bases with one out in the ninth against Tanner Scott on singles by Mikael Garcia and Salvador Perez around Vinnie Pacquantino's walk.

Rookie Jac Caglianone grounded to second Tommy Edman, who made a backhand flip to Betts at second, and Betts bounced his throw to Freeman. The All-Star first baseman snagged the ball as he fell to the field, giving Scott his 18th save in 23 chances.

Kansas City has lost six straight overall and 11 home games in a row.

Lou Trivino (3-0) got five outs as five Dodgers relievers combined for shutout relief of Dustin May, who gave up four runs, six hits and three walks in four innings.

Cameron (2-4) allowed five runs, three hits and three walks in four-plus innings

Perez had a run-scoring single in the first. Kyle Isbel lined an RBI double just over the outstretched glove of right fielder Teoscar Hernandez in the three-run second for the Royals, who had scored on run during a three-game series against Tampa Bay.

Freeman, who won a Gold Glove in 2018, made the outstanding defensive play that ended the game.

Kansas City tied its record for consecutive home losses, set from Sept. 21, 2011, to April 23, 2012, and matched from May 6 to June 4, 2013.

Ohtani (0-0, 4.50 ERA) makes his third mound appearance since elbow surgery, facing RHP Seth Lugo (4-5, 2.93 ERA) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751115669588.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani runs to third after hitting a triple during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, June 27, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani runs to third after hitting a triple during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Friday, June 27, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani led off the game with his 29th home run and also hit an RBI triple, and Freddie Freeman stretched as he fell over to complete a game-ending double play as the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Kansas City Royals 5-4 Friday night for their fifth straight win.Ohtani hit his major league-leading eighth leadoff homer this season, a drive off off Noah Cameron (2-4), and Max Muncy hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer for a 3-1 lead in the second.Bobby Witt Jr.'s two-run homer against Dustin May put Kansas City ahead 4-3 in the bottom half and gave the Royals their first lead since Sunday.Ohtani tied the score in the fifth against Cameron (2-4) with his seventh triple of the season and scored on Mookie Betts' single off Steven Cruz.Kansas City loaded the bases with one out in the ninth against Tanner Scott on singles by Mikael Garcia and Salvador Perez around Vinnie Pacquantino's walk.Rookie Jac Caglianone grounded to second Tommy Edman, who made a backhand flip to Betts at second, and Betts bounced his throw to Freeman. The All-Star first baseman snagged the ball as he fell to the field, giving Scott his 18th save in 23 chances.Kansas City has lost six straight overall and 11 home games in a row.Lou Trivino (3-0) got five outs as five Dodgers relievers combined for shutout relief of Dustin May, who gave up four runs, six hits and three walks in four innings.Cameron (2-4) allowed five runs, three hits and three walks in four-plus inningsPerez had a run-scoring single in the first. Kyle Isbel lined an RBI double just over the outstretched glove of right fielder Teoscar Hernandez in the three-run second for the Royals, who had scored on run during a three-game series against Tampa Bay.<h2>Key Moment</h2>Freeman, who won a Gold Glove in 2018, made the outstanding defensive play that ended the game.<h2>Key Stat</h2>Kansas City tied its record for consecutive home losses, set from Sept. 21, 2011, to April 23, 2012, and matched from May 6 to June 4, 2013.<h2>Up Next</h2>Ohtani (0-0, 4.50 ERA) makes his third mound appearance since elbow surgery, facing RHP Seth Lugo (4-5, 2.93 ERA) on Saturday.

Ohtani hits 29th homer, adds RBI triple to lead Dodgers over Royals 5-4

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The NCAA is considering a proposal that would allow athletes and staff members to bet on professional sports and shift enforcement efforts to college sports betting and “behaviors that directly impact game integrity.”

The Division I Council introduced the proposal that will be considered this fall and be implemented if Divisions II and III officials also approve.

The NCAA would still bar betting on college sports and sharing information about college events with bettors. Advertising and sponsorships associated with betting are also not allowed at NCAA championship events.

The shift comes as the organization grapples with the growth of legalized gambling across the United States. NCAA President Charlie Baker and other college sports leaders have raised concerns about gamblers attacking athletes on social media for their play and there have been scattered allegations, including some earlier this year, against programs involving betting.

The NCAA said Wednesday that “several sports betting-related violations by staff members at NCAA schools” have been resolved in recent years and noted its enforcement staff is working on issuing notices of allegations in several ongoing gambling cases.

Still, the NCAA has acknowledged the challenges in barring adult athletes at hundreds of schools from gambling on pro sports. Two years ago, it made reinstatement policies more lenient and the NCAA has a multi-year partnership with Genius Sports, which distributes official NCAA data to licensed sportsbooks, an arrangement that bars negative prop bets.

“NCAA rules prohibiting sports betting at all levels were written and adopted at a time when sports gambling was largely illegal nationwide,” said Josh Whitman, athletics director at Illinois and council chairman. “As betting on sports has become more widely accepted across the country, Division I members have determined that further discussion of these sports betting rules is warranted, particularly as it relates to the potential distinctions between betting on professional vs. collegiate sports.”

Current NCAA rules do not allow athletes or institutional staff to engage in sports betting for any sports that have NCAA championships; bets by an athlete on their own team or own sport risks a lifetime ban from college athletics.

“The enforcement staff’s sports betting-related caseload has significantly increased in recent years, and our staff — including our new sports betting integrity unit — has been effective in detecting and pursuing violations,” said Jon Duncan, NCAA vice president of enforcement.

Dr. Deena Casiero, the NCAA’s chief medical officer, said allowing pro sports betting may be more effective and realistic than an “abstinence-only” approach, clearing the way for education and better understanding of the risks.

“By meeting student-athletes where they are, schools may be more effective at preventing, identifying and supporting student-athletes with problematic gambling behaviors,” Casiero said.

In other NCAA moves, the Division I Board of Directors this week formally adopted roster limits for NCAA sports as part of the $2.8 billion House settlement that also allows revenue-sharing and schools to award as many scholarships as they wish within the roster caps.

— Endorsed a recommended cap of 32 regular-season games in both men’s and women’s basketball beginning with the 2026-27 season. Critics include early-season tournament organizers who say the change could result in fewer marquee matchups.

— Introduced a proposal to add women’s flag football to the emerging sports for women program. Flag football has grown rapidly in popularity and will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

— Adopted scheduling flexibility changes allowing Football Championship Subdivision programs to compete in 12 regular-season games every year, starting in 2026.

— Voted to introduce proposals that, if also supported by Divisions II and III, would establish NCAA championships for women’s stunt and women’s acrobatics and tumbling as early as spring 2027. The sports have grown in popularity.

— Voted to separate the scoring at the fencing championships to recognize winning teams in both men’s and women’s fencing. Currently, women’s-only teams are statistically unable to win the national championship under the existing scoring format. The change also needs backing by Divisions II and III.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The NCAA is considering a proposal that would allow athletes and staff members to bet on professional sports and shift enforcement efforts to college sports betting and “behaviors that directly impact game integrity.”The Division I Council introduced the proposal that will be considered this fall and be implemented if Divisions II and III officials also approve.The NCAA would still bar betting on college sports and sharing information about college events with bettors. Advertising and sponsorships associated with betting are also not allowed at NCAA championship events.The shift comes as the organization grapples with the growth of legalized gambling across the United States. NCAA President Charlie Baker and other college sports leaders have raised concerns about gamblers attacking athletes on social media for their play and there have been scattered allegations, including some earlier this year, against programs involving betting.The NCAA said Wednesday that “several sports betting-related violations by staff members at NCAA schools” have been resolved in recent years and noted its enforcement staff is working on issuing notices of allegations in several ongoing gambling cases.Still, the NCAA has acknowledged the challenges in barring adult athletes at hundreds of schools from gambling on pro sports. Two years ago, it made reinstatement policies more lenient and the NCAA has a multi-year partnership with Genius Sports, which distributes official NCAA data to licensed sportsbooks, an arrangement that bars negative prop bets.“NCAA rules prohibiting sports betting at all levels were written and adopted at a time when sports gambling was largely illegal nationwide,” said Josh Whitman, athletics director at Illinois and council chairman. “As betting on sports has become more widely accepted across the country, Division I members have determined that further discussion of these sports betting rules is warranted, particularly as it relates to the potential distinctions between betting on professional vs. collegiate sports.”Current NCAA rules do not allow athletes or institutional staff to engage in sports betting for any sports that have NCAA championships; bets by an athlete on their own team or own sport risks a lifetime ban from college athletics.“The enforcement staff’s sports betting-related caseload has significantly increased in recent years, and our staff — including our new sports betting integrity unit — has been effective in detecting and pursuing violations,” said Jon Duncan, NCAA vice president of enforcement.Dr. Deena Casiero, the NCAA’s chief medical officer, said allowing pro sports betting may be more effective and realistic than an “abstinence-only” approach, clearing the way for education and better understanding of the risks.“By meeting student-athletes where they are, schools may be more effective at preventing, identifying and supporting student-athletes with problematic gambling behaviors,” Casiero said.In other NCAA moves, the Division I Board of Directors this week formally adopted roster limits for NCAA sports as part of the $2.8 billion House settlement that also allows revenue-sharing and schools to award as many scholarships as they wish within the roster caps.Also this week, the Division I Council:— Endorsed a recommended cap of 32 regular-season games in both men’s and women’s basketball beginning with the 2026-27 season. Critics include early-season tournament organizers who say the change could result in fewer marquee matchups.— Introduced a proposal to add women’s flag football to the emerging sports for women program. Flag football has grown rapidly in popularity and will make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.— Adopted scheduling flexibility changes allowing Football Championship Subdivision programs to compete in 12 regular-season games every year, starting in 2026.— Voted to introduce proposals that, if also supported by Divisions II and III, would establish NCAA championships for women’s stunt and women’s acrobatics and tumbling as early as spring 2027. The sports have grown in popularity.— Voted to separate the scoring at the fencing championships to recognize winning teams in both men’s and women’s fencing. Currently, women’s-only teams are statistically unable to win the national championship under the existing scoring format. The change also needs backing by Divisions II and III.

NCAA considering proposal to allow college athletes, staff to bet on professional sports

Notre Dame outmuscled Iowa State, Kansas and Kansas State for the commitment of four-star tight end Ian Premer on Thursday, beating the Big 12 trio to ESPN's No. 60 prospect in the 2026 class.

Premer, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound recruit from Great Bend, Kansas, is the fifth-ranked tight end in the 2026 ESPN 300. He lands with the Fighting Irish following official visits with each of his four finalists earlier this month, and Premer now stands as the third-ranked pledge in an incoming Notre Dame recruiting class that sits at No. 3 in ESPN's latest class rankings for the 2026 cycle.

Premer's commitment continues a torrid run of spring recruiting for Notre Dame and coach Marcus Freeman, who have secured pledges from 11 ESPN 300 prospects since April 1. Defensive backs Khary Adams (No. 29 overall) and Joey O'Brien (No. 103) became the latest high-profile additions to the Irish's 2026 class with commitments within hours of each other on June 20. With Premer, Notre Dame's count of 15 top 300 pledges trail only USC (17) for the most nationally.

A three-sport star at Great Bend (Kansas) High School, Premer projects as a versatile, playmaking tight end. He was credited with 30 receptions for 541 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior last fall, adding 50 tackles and three interceptions on defense. Premer, who held a basketball offer from Kansas State, has also been a multiyear standout with Great Bend's basketball and baseball programs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750983075997.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By ELI LEDERMAN ESPN.COMNotre Dame outmuscled Iowa State, Kansas and Kansas State for the commitment of four-star tight end Ian Premer on Thursday, beating the Big 12 trio to ESPN's No. 60 prospect in the 2026 class.Premer, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound recruit from Great Bend, Kansas, is the fifth-ranked tight end in the 2026 ESPN 300. He lands with the Fighting Irish following official visits with each of his four finalists earlier this month, and Premer now stands as the third-ranked pledge in an incoming Notre Dame recruiting class that sits at No. 3 in ESPN's latest class rankings for the 2026 cycle.Premer's commitment continues a torrid run of spring recruiting for Notre Dame and coach Marcus Freeman, who have secured pledges from 11 ESPN 300 prospects since April 1. Defensive backs Khary Adams (No. 29 overall) and Joey O'Brien (No. 103) became the latest high-profile additions to the Irish's 2026 class with commitments within hours of each other on June 20. With Premer, Notre Dame's count of 15 top 300 pledges trail only USC (17) for the most nationally.A three-sport star at Great Bend (Kansas) High School, Premer projects as a versatile, playmaking tight end. He was credited with 30 receptions for 541 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior last fall, adding 50 tackles and three interceptions on defense. Premer, who held a basketball offer from Kansas State, has also been a multiyear standout with Great Bend's basketball and baseball programs.

Ian Premer commits to Notre Dame

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have requested an extension to an end-of-June deadline for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas, an indication that the NFL franchise's potential move across the state line from Missouri is a legitimate possibility.

Chiefs president Mark Donovan requested the extension Thursday in a letter to Kansas Senate president Ty Masterson, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press. Donovan explained that the Chiefs have made “significant progress” on plans for a new stadium development but that more time is needed to “bring the effort to full fruition.”

The Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council is scheduled to meet July 7 to consider extending the incentive deadline.

“The letter from Mark Donovan indicates that the drive to bring this historic project to Kansas is moving down the field,” Masterson said in a statement. “Now that we are in the red zone, this extension will provide stakeholders sufficient time to ensure the ball crosses the goal line.”

The Chiefs and Royals have played for more than five decades at the Truman Sports Complex on the east side of Kansas City, Missouri, where Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium share parking facilities. But leases with Jackson County are due to expire in January 2031, and the two franchises have been trying to plot a course forward for years.

Donovan indicated in his letter to Masterson that Kansas remains an enticing option.

“Together,” he wrote, “we have the opportunity to bring the National Football League to Kansas, anchored by a world-class domed stadium, new team headquarters, a state-of-the-art practice facility, and a vibrant mixed-use and entertainment district.”

Last year, Jackson County voters defeated a sales tax extension that would have helped to finance an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead Stadium — the home of the Chiefs — and a $2 billion ballpark district for the Royals in downtown Kansas City.

While local and state officials in Missouri were considering another a stadium financing package, lawmakers in Kansas quickly and aggressively authorized bonds for up to 70% of the cost of new stadiums to be built in their state.

Many believed the Chiefs and Royals would use the Kansas offer as leverage for a better deal from Missouri — including Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas, who acknowledged that "the teams are in an exceptional leverage position.”

Finally, earlier this month, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe called lawmakers into a special session to approve a stadium financing deal that included disaster relief for the St. Louis area, where a series of devastating tornadoes caused widespread damage. The legislation authorizes bonds covering up to 50% of the cost of new or renovated stadiums in Missouri, plus up to $50 million of tax credits for each stadium and unspecified aid from local governments.

The prevailing belief was that the package would be enough to keep the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, where they have floated plans for a $1.15 billion renovation, and perhaps hold onto the Royals, who are still interested in building downtown.

Yet news surfaced about a month ago that an affiliate of the Royals purchased the mortgage on a large property in the southern Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, Kansas, raising the possibility of building a new stadium and ballpark district there.

And the letter from Donovan requesting an extension in Kansas indicates the Chiefs also are serious about switching states.

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has long professed his affinity for Arrowhead Stadium, which was built by his father and team founder Lamar Hunt. But he also is keenly aware of the revenue streams available by building a new domed stadium, including the chance to host the Super Bowl, the Final Four and other marquee sporting events.

It is unclear where the Chiefs would build in Kansas, but one possibility is the juncture of Interstates 435 and 70 in Kansas City, Kansas. That's the site of Kansas Speedway, a mixed residential and commercial district called The Legends, the home stadiums of MLS club Sporting Kansas City and the Kansas City Monarchs minor league baseball club, as well as a casino, hotels, a major soccer training center and the infrastructure necessary to support a domed football stadium.

“We are excited about the potential for this project, which would represent the largest economic development initiative in the state’s history," Donovan wrote in his letter Thursday. "Just as important, the presence of an NFL franchise in (Kansas) will serve as a powerful engine for immediate and long term-growth — driving national attention, sustained tourism, and billions more in private development across the state.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751021640838.jpeg" alt="Tampa Bay Rays' Jonathan Aranda warms up on deck before the second inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Tampa Bay Rays' Jonathan Aranda warms up on deck before the second inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs have requested an extension to an end-of-June deadline for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas, an indication that the NFL franchise's potential move across the state line from Missouri is a legitimate possibility.Chiefs president Mark Donovan requested the extension Thursday in a letter to Kansas Senate president Ty Masterson, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press. Donovan explained that the Chiefs have made “significant progress” on plans for a new stadium development but that more time is needed to “bring the effort to full fruition.”The Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council is scheduled to meet July 7 to consider extending the incentive deadline.“The letter from Mark Donovan indicates that the drive to bring this historic project to Kansas is moving down the field,” Masterson said in a statement. “Now that we are in the red zone, this extension will provide stakeholders sufficient time to ensure the ball crosses the goal line.”The Chiefs and Royals have played for more than five decades at the Truman Sports Complex on the east side of Kansas City, Missouri, where Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium share parking facilities. But leases with Jackson County are due to expire in January 2031, and the two franchises have been trying to plot a course forward for years.Donovan indicated in his letter to Masterson that Kansas remains an enticing option.“Together,” he wrote, “we have the opportunity to bring the National Football League to Kansas, anchored by a world-class domed stadium, new team headquarters, a state-of-the-art practice facility, and a vibrant mixed-use and entertainment district.”Last year, Jackson County voters defeated a sales tax extension that would have helped to finance an $800 million renovation of Arrowhead Stadium — the home of the Chiefs — and a $2 billion ballpark district for the Royals in downtown Kansas City.While local and state officials in Missouri were considering another a stadium financing package, lawmakers in Kansas quickly and aggressively authorized bonds for up to 70% of the cost of new stadiums to be built in their state.Many believed the Chiefs and Royals would use the Kansas offer as leverage for a better deal from Missouri — including Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas, who acknowledged that "the teams are in an exceptional leverage position.”Finally, earlier this month, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe called lawmakers into a special session to approve a stadium financing deal that included disaster relief for the St. Louis area, where a series of devastating tornadoes caused widespread damage. The legislation authorizes bonds covering up to 50% of the cost of new or renovated stadiums in Missouri, plus up to $50 million of tax credits for each stadium and unspecified aid from local governments.The prevailing belief was that the package would be enough to keep the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium, where they have floated plans for a $1.15 billion renovation, and perhaps hold onto the Royals, who are still interested in building downtown.Yet news surfaced about a month ago that an affiliate of the Royals purchased the mortgage on a large property in the southern Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, Kansas, raising the possibility of building a new stadium and ballpark district there.And the letter from Donovan requesting an extension in Kansas indicates the Chiefs also are serious about switching states.Chiefs owner Clark Hunt has long professed his affinity for Arrowhead Stadium, which was built by his father and team founder Lamar Hunt. But he also is keenly aware of the revenue streams available by building a new domed stadium, including the chance to host the Super Bowl, the Final Four and other marquee sporting events.It is unclear where the Chiefs would build in Kansas, but one possibility is the juncture of Interstates 435 and 70 in Kansas City, Kansas. That's the site of Kansas Speedway, a mixed residential and commercial district called The Legends, the home stadiums of MLS club Sporting Kansas City and the Kansas City Monarchs minor league baseball club, as well as a casino, hotels, a major soccer training center and the infrastructure necessary to support a domed football stadium.“We are excited about the potential for this project, which would represent the largest economic development initiative in the state’s history," Donovan wrote in his letter Thursday. "Just as important, the presence of an NFL franchise in (Kansas) will serve as a powerful engine for immediate and long term-growth — driving national attention, sustained tourism, and billions more in private development across the state.”

Chiefs seek extension for Kansas stadium financing, raising possibility of move across state line

The
Kansas City Royals look to stop a five-game slide when they play the
Los Angeles Dodgers.

Los
Angeles Dodgers (51-31, first in the NL West) vs. Kansas City Royals
(38-43, fourth in the AL Central)

Kansas
City, Missouri; Friday, 8:10 p.m. EDT

PITCHING
PROBABLES: Dodgers: Dustin May (4-5, 4.46 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 72
strikeouts); Royals: Noah Cameron (2-3, 2.08 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 34
strikeouts)

BETMGM
SPORTSBOOK LINE: Dodgers -159, Royals +134; over/under is 9 1/2
runs

BOTTOM
LINE: The Kansas City Royals will try to end a five-game losing
streak when they play the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Kansas
City is 19-22 in home games and 38-43 overall. The Royals have the
ninth-ranked team batting average in the AL at .243.

Los
Angeles has a 21-17 record in road games and a 51-31 record overall.
The Dodgers have a 14-9 record in games decided by one run.

Friday's
game is the first meeting between these teams this season.

TOP
PERFORMERS: Vinnie Pasquantino leads the Royals with 11 home runs
while slugging .406. Bobby Witt Jr. is 12 for 40 with five doubles,
two home runs and three RBIs over the past 10 games.

Shohei
Ohtani has 12 doubles, six triples and 28 home runs while hitting
.291 for the Dodgers. Andy Pages is 14 for 38 with three doubles and
three home runs over the past 10 games.

LAST
10 GAMES: Royals: 4-6, .195 batting average, 3.17 ERA,
outscored by five runs

Dodgers:
8-2, .270 batting average, 4.30 ERA, outscored opponents by 18 runs

INJURIES:
Royals: Cole Ragans: 15-Day IL (rotator cuff), Michael Massey:
10-Day IL (ankle), Hunter Harvey: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Alec Marsh:
60-Day IL (shoulder), James McArthur: 60-Day IL (elbow)

Dodgers:
Roki Sasaki: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Tony Gonsolin: 60-Day IL (elbow),
Tyler Glasnow: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Evan Phillips: 60-Day IL
(forearm), Blake Snell: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Blake Treinen: 60-Day
IL (forearm), Edgardo Henriquez: 60-Day IL (foot), Kyle Hurt: 60-Day
IL (elbow), Michael Grove: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Brusdar Graterol:
60-Day IL (shoulder), River Ryan: 60-Day IL (elbow), Gavin Stone:
60-Day IL (shoulder)

By
The Associated PressThe
Kansas City Royals look to stop a five-game slide when they play the
Los Angeles Dodgers.Los
Angeles Dodgers (51-31, first in the NL West) vs. Kansas City Royals
(38-43, fourth in the AL Central)Kansas
City, Missouri; Friday, 8:10 p.m. EDTPITCHING
PROBABLES: Dodgers: Dustin May (4-5, 4.46 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 72
strikeouts); Royals: Noah Cameron (2-3, 2.08 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 34
strikeouts)BETMGM
SPORTSBOOK LINE: Dodgers -159, Royals +134; over/under is 9 1/2
runsBOTTOM
LINE: The Kansas City Royals will try to end a five-game losing
streak when they play the Los Angeles Dodgers.Kansas
City is 19-22 in home games and 38-43 overall. The Royals have the
ninth-ranked team batting average in the AL at .243.Los
Angeles has a 21-17 record in road games and a 51-31 record overall.
The Dodgers have a 14-9 record in games decided by one run.Friday's
game is the first meeting between these teams this season.TOP
PERFORMERS: Vinnie Pasquantino leads the Royals with 11 home runs
while slugging .406. Bobby Witt Jr. is 12 for 40 with five doubles,
two home runs and three RBIs over the past 10 games.Shohei
Ohtani has 12 doubles, six triples and 28 home runs while hitting
.291 for the Dodgers. Andy Pages is 14 for 38 with three doubles and
three home runs over the past 10 games.LAST
10 GAMES: Royals: 4-6, .195 batting average, 3.17 ERA,
outscored by five runsDodgers:
8-2, .270 batting average, 4.30 ERA, outscored opponents by 18 runsINJURIES:
Royals: Cole Ragans: 15-Day IL (rotator cuff), Michael Massey:
10-Day IL (ankle), Hunter Harvey: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Alec Marsh:
60-Day IL (shoulder), James McArthur: 60-Day IL (elbow)Dodgers:
Roki Sasaki: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Tony Gonsolin: 60-Day IL (elbow),
Tyler Glasnow: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Evan Phillips: 60-Day IL
(forearm), Blake Snell: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Blake Treinen: 60-Day
IL (forearm), Edgardo Henriquez: 60-Day IL (foot), Kyle Hurt: 60-Day
IL (elbow), Michael Grove: 60-Day IL (shoulder), Brusdar Graterol:
60-Day IL (shoulder), River Ryan: 60-Day IL (elbow), Gavin Stone:
60-Day IL (shoulder)

Royals head into matchup against the Dodgers on losing streak

Great Bend High School announced their new baseball coach will be Michael Stettinger. Stettinger takes over for Randy Beck. Beck retired following this school year, guiding the Panthers as head coach since 2010.

Great Bend High School announced their new baseball coach will be Michael Stettinger. Stettinger takes over for Randy Beck. Beck retired following this school year, guiding the Panthers as head coach since 2010.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750962349532.jpeg" alt="From USD 428, Great Bend High School" />
 <figcaption>From USD 428, Great Bend High School</figcaption>
 </figure>

Stettinger named next baseball coach for Great Bend High School

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) —
The Chiefs have requested an extension to the end-of-June deadline
for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas in a letter
to the Kansas Senate president. The request Thursday is an indication
that the NFL franchise’s potential move across the state line from
Missouri is a legitimate possibility. Many believed that once
Missouri lawmakers approved a financing package earlier this month,
the Chiefs would ultimately renovate Arrowhead Stadium. But the deal
from Kansas lawmakers may prove too lucrative to pass up. Donovan
says there has been “significant progress” on plans for a new
domed stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and mixed-use
entertainment district.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Shane Baz allowed three hits over a career-best eight
innings, Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero hit back-to-back homers in
the sixth, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on
Thursday for a three-game sweep. Baz struck out nine and walked one.
Jacob Lowe had three hits for the Rays, and Jake Mangum hit a
run-scoring triple. Tampa Bay has won five of six to move a
season-high 11 games above .500 and a half-game behind the AL
East-leading New York Yankees, who were off Thursday. Tampa Bay
starters have thrown 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Shota Imanaga returned from the injured list to throw five innings of
one-hit ball, lifting the Chicago Cubs to a 3-0 victory over the St.
Louis Cardinals for a split of a four-game series. Michael Busch
homered and singled and Carson Kelly also had two hits for the NL
Central-leading Cubs. St. Louis was shut out in back-to-back games
for the first time this season. Five Chicago pitchers combined on a
three-hitter. A left hamstring strain cost Imanaga nearly two months.
In his Busch Stadium debut, Imanaga gave up a first-inning single to
Masyn Winn and then retired 10 batters before issuing his lone walk.

NEW YORK (AP) —
New York Mets right-hander Griffin Canning left Thursday night’s
game against Atlanta in the third inning after suffering a left ankle
injury on a non-contact play. After the Mets beat the Braves 4-0, New
York manager Carlos Mendoza said Canning’s injury “looks like an
Achilles.” Canning struck out three and allowed just one baserunner
— Eli White’s single leading off the inning — before he was
hurt while breaking toward the left side of the infield on Nick
Allen’s one-out grounder to shortstop. The 29-year-old Canning
immediately began hopping on his right leg and took only a couple
steps before dropping onto the field with his left leg elevated. The
Mets said after the inning that Canning will undergo imaging on the
ankle.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani and the New York Yankees’
Aaron Judge have been the first players picked for the July 15
All-Star Game at Atlanta’s Truist Park, elected as starters by
fans. Judge led the major leagues with 4,012,983 votes in the first
round of fan balloting and the outfielder was picked for his seventh
American League start in eight All-Star Games, though he missed the
2023 game because of a sprained right big toe. He also was the
leading vote-getter during the first phase in 2022 and last year.
Ohtani topped the NL and was second in the big leagues with 3,967,668
votes, becoming the first designated hitter to start in five straight
All-Star Games.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —
Barry Bonds will be getting a statue outside the San Francisco
Giants’ home stadium where he set baseball’s career home run
record. Giants President and Chief Executive Officer Larry Baer said
Thursday during a radio interview in San Francisco that Bonds is
certainly deserving of a statue and that one is on the radar. Baer
didn’t have any details of when that would happen. Bonds played for
San Francisco the last 15 of his 22 big league seasons, hitting 586
of his 762 career homers while with the Giants from 1993-2007. He set
the single-season MLB record with 73 homers in 2001, and hit his
record-breaking 756th homer to pass Hank Aaron in a home game on Aug.
7, 2007.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) —
The NCAA is considering a proposal to allow athletes and staff to bet
on professional sports while maintaining strict bans on college
sports betting. The Division I Council introduced the idea, which
requires approval from Divisions II and III. The NCAA says this shift
reflects the rise of legalized gambling and aims to focus enforcement
on college sports integrity. Current rules already ban betting on
NCAA sports, with severe penalties for violations. Officials argue
this approach could better address gambling issues among athletes.

UNDATED (AP) —
College sports leaders seeking antitrust and other protections from
Congress have a potential bargaining chip: School assurances that
they will provide funding for their increasingly imperiled Olympic
programs, by far the biggest pipeline of talent for Team USA. Four
people familiar with the talks tell The Associated Press that the
discussions are ongoing. The idea is to find common ground that could
help legislation win enough Democratic support make it through a
narrowly divided Congress.

UNDATED (AP) — The
professionalization of college sports has prompted concern among team
physicians that they will be exposed to a greater risk of medical
liability lawsuits by injured athletes who claim a poor outcome
caused them to lose future earnings. Schools set to share millions
this year in direct payments to athletes. Some already make well into
the millions. Though no malpractice lawsuits seeking lost future
earnings at the college level are known to have been filed, Big Ten
chief medical officer Dr. James Borchers says it’s only a matter of
time.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The NBA draft resumed with a trade and the deals appeared likely to
continue throughout the second round. The Phoenix Suns opened it by
taking Rasheer Fleming after agreeing to acquire the pick earlier
Thursday from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Wolves still made the
No. 31 pick, but Phoenix and Minnesota had worked out the swap a few
hours earlier, a person with knowledge of the details told The
Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because
the deal was not officially announced. Among the familiar names going
early in the second round were Auburn All-American Johni Broome to
Philadelphia at No. 35, one pick after Creighton center Ryan
Kalkbrenner.

DETROIT (AP) —
Kevin Roy and Aldrich Potgieter each shot 10-under 62 on Thursday to
break the Rocket Classic record and share the first-round lead.
Detroit Golf Club has been one of the easiest courses since the PGA
Tour made it an annual stop in 2019. A pair of Korn Ferry graduates
took full advantage. Potgieter, the 20-year-old South African who
grew up in Australia, started at No. 10 and set a tournament record
with a 7-under 29 on the back nine. He added three birdies on his
back nine and caught the left edge on a 12-foot putt on his final
hole. Potgieter and Roy each had an eagle and eight birdies in
bogey-free rounds. Min Woo Lee, Max Greyserman and Mark Hubbard were
a stroke back.

COLORADO SPRINGS,
Colo. (AP) — Padraig Harrington made four birdies, though it was
the bogey he saved after losing a tee shot deep in a thicket of trees
on the 15th hole that helped him keep a share of the first-round lead
with Mark Hensby at the U.S. Senior Open. The leaders shot 3-under 67
for a one-shot advantage over a group of seven, including Stewart
Cink, who hit the first 17 greens before making bogey after coming up
short on No. 18.

PUERTO PLATA,
Dominican Republic (AP) — Suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander
Franco has been found guilty of sexually abusing a child. A Dominican
Republic court handed him a two-year suspended sentence Thursday.
Franco was accused of having a relationship with a 14-year-old girl
and transferring money to her mother for consent. He was found not
guilty of sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor and
human trafficking. Prosecutors sought a five-year prison term for
Franco and a 10-year sentence for the girl’s mother, who was also
found guilty and will serve her full term. Major League Baseball said
it would conclude its own investigation later. Franco’s baseball
career remains on hold amid ongoing legal issues.

NEW YORK (AP) —
The NFL has suspended former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker
for the first 10 weeks next season for violating the league’s
personal conduct policy. The league announced the punishment
Thursday. It takes effect on Aug. 26, which is roster cutdown day,
and Tucker is eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 11. He is a free
agent after the Ravens released him last month in the aftermath of
reports that he was accused of inappropriate sexual behavior by
massage therapists. A five-time All-Pro, the 35-year-old Tucker has
played his entire 13-year career with Baltimore. He’s considered
one of the best kickers in NFL history, although 2024 was his worst
season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739459822020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LENEXA, Kan. (AP) —
The Chiefs have requested an extension to the end-of-June deadline
for a stadium financing package from the state of Kansas in a letter
to the Kansas Senate president. The request Thursday is an indication
that the NFL franchise’s potential move across the state line from
Missouri is a legitimate possibility. Many believed that once
Missouri lawmakers approved a financing package earlier this month,
the Chiefs would ultimately renovate Arrowhead Stadium. But the deal
from Kansas lawmakers may prove too lucrative to pass up. Donovan
says there has been “significant progress” on plans for a new
domed stadium, team headquarters, practice facility and mixed-use
entertainment district.KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Shane Baz allowed three hits over a career-best eight
innings, Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero hit back-to-back homers in
the sixth, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on
Thursday for a three-game sweep. Baz struck out nine and walked one.
Jacob Lowe had three hits for the Rays, and Jake Mangum hit a
run-scoring triple. Tampa Bay has won five of six to move a
season-high 11 games above .500 and a half-game behind the AL
East-leading New York Yankees, who were off Thursday. Tampa Bay
starters have thrown 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Shota Imanaga returned from the injured list to throw five innings of
one-hit ball, lifting the Chicago Cubs to a 3-0 victory over the St.
Louis Cardinals for a split of a four-game series. Michael Busch
homered and singled and Carson Kelly also had two hits for the NL
Central-leading Cubs. St. Louis was shut out in back-to-back games
for the first time this season. Five Chicago pitchers combined on a
three-hitter. A left hamstring strain cost Imanaga nearly two months.
In his Busch Stadium debut, Imanaga gave up a first-inning single to
Masyn Winn and then retired 10 batters before issuing his lone walk.NEW YORK (AP) —
New York Mets right-hander Griffin Canning left Thursday night’s
game against Atlanta in the third inning after suffering a left ankle
injury on a non-contact play. After the Mets beat the Braves 4-0, New
York manager Carlos Mendoza said Canning’s injury “looks like an
Achilles.” Canning struck out three and allowed just one baserunner
— Eli White’s single leading off the inning — before he was
hurt while breaking toward the left side of the infield on Nick
Allen’s one-out grounder to shortstop. The 29-year-old Canning
immediately began hopping on his right leg and took only a couple
steps before dropping onto the field with his left leg elevated. The
Mets said after the inning that Canning will undergo imaging on the
ankle.NEW YORK (AP) —
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani and the New York Yankees’
Aaron Judge have been the first players picked for the July 15
All-Star Game at Atlanta’s Truist Park, elected as starters by
fans. Judge led the major leagues with 4,012,983 votes in the first
round of fan balloting and the outfielder was picked for his seventh
American League start in eight All-Star Games, though he missed the
2023 game because of a sprained right big toe. He also was the
leading vote-getter during the first phase in 2022 and last year.
Ohtani topped the NL and was second in the big leagues with 3,967,668
votes, becoming the first designated hitter to start in five straight
All-Star Games.SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —
Barry Bonds will be getting a statue outside the San Francisco
Giants’ home stadium where he set baseball’s career home run
record. Giants President and Chief Executive Officer Larry Baer said
Thursday during a radio interview in San Francisco that Bonds is
certainly deserving of a statue and that one is on the radar. Baer
didn’t have any details of when that would happen. Bonds played for
San Francisco the last 15 of his 22 big league seasons, hitting 586
of his 762 career homers while with the Giants from 1993-2007. He set
the single-season MLB record with 73 homers in 2001, and hit his
record-breaking 756th homer to pass Hank Aaron in a home game on Aug.
7, 2007.INDIANAPOLIS (AP) —
The NCAA is considering a proposal to allow athletes and staff to bet
on professional sports while maintaining strict bans on college
sports betting. The Division I Council introduced the idea, which
requires approval from Divisions II and III. The NCAA says this shift
reflects the rise of legalized gambling and aims to focus enforcement
on college sports integrity. Current rules already ban betting on
NCAA sports, with severe penalties for violations. Officials argue
this approach could better address gambling issues among athletes.UNDATED (AP) —
College sports leaders seeking antitrust and other protections from
Congress have a potential bargaining chip: School assurances that
they will provide funding for their increasingly imperiled Olympic
programs, by far the biggest pipeline of talent for Team USA. Four
people familiar with the talks tell The Associated Press that the
discussions are ongoing. The idea is to find common ground that could
help legislation win enough Democratic support make it through a
narrowly divided Congress.UNDATED (AP) — The
professionalization of college sports has prompted concern among team
physicians that they will be exposed to a greater risk of medical
liability lawsuits by injured athletes who claim a poor outcome
caused them to lose future earnings. Schools set to share millions
this year in direct payments to athletes. Some already make well into
the millions. Though no malpractice lawsuits seeking lost future
earnings at the college level are known to have been filed, Big Ten
chief medical officer Dr. James Borchers says it’s only a matter of
time.NEW YORK (AP) —
The NBA draft resumed with a trade and the deals appeared likely to
continue throughout the second round. The Phoenix Suns opened it by
taking Rasheer Fleming after agreeing to acquire the pick earlier
Thursday from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Wolves still made the
No. 31 pick, but Phoenix and Minnesota had worked out the swap a few
hours earlier, a person with knowledge of the details told The
Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because
the deal was not officially announced. Among the familiar names going
early in the second round were Auburn All-American Johni Broome to
Philadelphia at No. 35, one pick after Creighton center Ryan
Kalkbrenner.DETROIT (AP) —
Kevin Roy and Aldrich Potgieter each shot 10-under 62 on Thursday to
break the Rocket Classic record and share the first-round lead.
Detroit Golf Club has been one of the easiest courses since the PGA
Tour made it an annual stop in 2019. A pair of Korn Ferry graduates
took full advantage. Potgieter, the 20-year-old South African who
grew up in Australia, started at No. 10 and set a tournament record
with a 7-under 29 on the back nine. He added three birdies on his
back nine and caught the left edge on a 12-foot putt on his final
hole. Potgieter and Roy each had an eagle and eight birdies in
bogey-free rounds. Min Woo Lee, Max Greyserman and Mark Hubbard were
a stroke back.COLORADO SPRINGS,
Colo. (AP) — Padraig Harrington made four birdies, though it was
the bogey he saved after losing a tee shot deep in a thicket of trees
on the 15th hole that helped him keep a share of the first-round lead
with Mark Hensby at the U.S. Senior Open. The leaders shot 3-under 67
for a one-shot advantage over a group of seven, including Stewart
Cink, who hit the first 17 greens before making bogey after coming up
short on No. 18.PUERTO PLATA,
Dominican Republic (AP) — Suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander
Franco has been found guilty of sexually abusing a child. A Dominican
Republic court handed him a two-year suspended sentence Thursday.
Franco was accused of having a relationship with a 14-year-old girl
and transferring money to her mother for consent. He was found not
guilty of sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor and
human trafficking. Prosecutors sought a five-year prison term for
Franco and a 10-year sentence for the girl’s mother, who was also
found guilty and will serve her full term. Major League Baseball said
it would conclude its own investigation later. Franco’s baseball
career remains on hold amid ongoing legal issues.NEW YORK (AP) —
The NFL has suspended former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker
for the first 10 weeks next season for violating the league’s
personal conduct policy. The league announced the punishment
Thursday. It takes effect on Aug. 26, which is roster cutdown day,
and Tucker is eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 11. He is a free
agent after the Ravens released him last month in the aftermath of
reports that he was accused of inappropriate sexual behavior by
massage therapists. A five-time All-Pro, the 35-year-old Tucker has
played his entire 13-year career with Baltimore. He’s considered
one of the best kickers in NFL history, although 2024 was his worst
season.THURSDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Houston	2	Philadelphia	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	Detroit	8	Athletics	0	Final	Minnesota	10	Seattle	1	Final	Toronto	6	Cleveland	0	Final	Tampa
Bay	4	Kansas City	0	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Chicago
Cubs	3	St. Louis	0	Final	L.A.
Dodgers	3	Colorado	1	Final	Miami	12	San
Francisco	5	Final	N.Y.
Mets	4	Atlanta	0

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shane Baz allowed three hits over a career-best eight innings, Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero hit back-to-back homers in the sixth, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on Thursday for a three-game sweep.

Baz (8-3) struck out nine and walked one. Jacob Lowe had three hits for the Rays, and Jake Mangum hit a run-scoring triple.

Tampa Bay has won five of six to move a season-high 11 games above .500 (46-35) and a half-game behind the AL East-leading New York Yankees, who were off Thursday.

Paul Gervase gave up singles to Jonathan India and Vinnie Pasquantino before Pete Fairbanks came on with one out in the ninth and got Maikel Garcia to ground into a 6-4-3 double play for his 15th save.

Tampa Bay starters have thrown 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.

The Royals were also shut out on Wednesday and scored one run in their three losses to the Rays. Kansas City has gone 14-27 (.341) — third worst in the majors over that span — since starting the season 24-16 (.600).

Jonathan Aranda hit a two-out double and then scored on Mangum's triple off starter Michael Lorenzen (4-8) before Josh Lowe added an RBI single to cap Tampa Bay's two-run fourth.

The Rays are the first team in the majors to sweep three road series this season. Tampa Bay swept a three-game series at the New York Mets earlier this month and won three straight at San Diego in April.

Tampa Bay's Ryan Pepiot (5-6, 3.04 ERA) takes the mound Friday against host Baltimore’s Tomoyuki Sugano (5-4, 3.55). Kansas City's Noah Cameron (2-3, 2.08) pitches against right-hander Dustin May (4-5, 4.46) of the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750983457869.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Shane Baz throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Shane Baz throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Shane Baz allowed three hits over a career-best eight innings, Brandon Lowe and Junior Caminero hit back-to-back homers in the sixth, and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 on Thursday for a three-game sweep.Baz (8-3) struck out nine and walked one. Jacob Lowe had three hits for the Rays, and Jake Mangum hit a run-scoring triple.Tampa Bay has won five of six to move a season-high 11 games above .500 (46-35) and a half-game behind the AL East-leading New York Yankees, who were off Thursday.Paul Gervase gave up singles to Jonathan India and Vinnie Pasquantino before Pete Fairbanks came on with one out in the ninth and got Maikel Garcia to ground into a 6-4-3 double play for his 15th save.Tampa Bay starters have thrown 22 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.The Royals were also shut out on Wednesday and scored one run in their three losses to the Rays. Kansas City has gone 14-27 (.341) — third worst in the majors over that span — since starting the season 24-16 (.600).<h2>Key moment</h2>Jonathan Aranda hit a two-out double and then scored on Mangum's triple off starter Michael Lorenzen (4-8) before Josh Lowe added an RBI single to cap Tampa Bay's two-run fourth.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Rays are the first team in the majors to sweep three road series this season. Tampa Bay swept a three-game series at the New York Mets earlier this month and won three straight at San Diego in April.<h2>Up next</h2>Tampa Bay's Ryan Pepiot (5-6, 3.04 ERA) takes the mound Friday against host Baltimore’s Tomoyuki Sugano (5-4, 3.55). Kansas City's Noah Cameron (2-3, 2.08) pitches against right-hander Dustin May (4-5, 4.46) of the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers.

Rays blank Royals 4-0 for 3-game sweep

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State will play Mississippi State in the second game of the Hall of Fame Classic at 8:30 p.m., CT on Thursday, Nov. 20 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, as the NABC announced the complete bracket for the 25th annual event on Thursday (June 26).

Nebraska and New Mexico will open the tournament at 6 p.m., CT on Thursday. The winners of the two semifinal matchups will play in the championship game at 8:30 p.m., CT on Friday, Nov. 21 with the consolation bracket set for 6 p.m., CT.

All games will be streamed on Peacock and NBC Sports NOW.

Tickets for the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic will go on sale via the T-Mobile Center box office and t-mobilecenter.com on Sept. 3.

The Bulldogs are coming off their third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance in 2024-25 with a third straight 20-win season under head coach Chris Jans. They finished in a four-way tie for ninth in the rugged SEC with Arkansas, Georgia and Vanderbilt with an 8-10 mark.

This will be the fifth all-time meeting between the schools and the first since a 67-61 MSU win at the Never Forget Tribute Classic in Newark, N.J., on Dec. 14, 2019. K-State won the previous three meetings in the series in 1984, 1985 and 1994.

Nebraska won the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament championship in 2025, finishing with a 21-14 record and a 7-13 mark in Big Ten play. New Mexico (27-8) captured the Mountain West regular-season championship with a 17-3 record and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament for the second straight season.

K-State leads the all-time series with both Nebraska (128-94) and New Mexico (4-2), having last met the Lobos in 2006 and Cornhuskers in 2023.

K-State will be making its fourth appearance in the Hall of Fame Classic and the first since 2021. The Wildcats finished as the tournament runner-up in their first two visits, defeating No. 18 Gonzaga before losing to top-ranked Duke in 2010 and defeating Missouri before losing to No. 9 North Carolina in 2015. The team lost to No. 13 Arkansas and No. 14 Illinois in their most recent appearance in 2021.

The Hall of Fame Classic was created by the Kansas City-based National Association of Basketball Classic (NABC) in 2001 as the Guardians Classic and was later known as the CBE Classic and CBE Hall of Fame Classic before being rebranded as the Hall of Fame Classic in 2017.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750963501919.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State AthleticsMANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State will play Mississippi State in the second game of the Hall of Fame Classic at 8:30 p.m., CT on Thursday, Nov. 20 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, as the NABC announced the complete bracket for the 25th annual event on Thursday (June 26).Nebraska and New Mexico will open the tournament at 6 p.m., CT on Thursday. The winners of the two semifinal matchups will play in the championship game at 8:30 p.m., CT on Friday, Nov. 21 with the consolation bracket set for 6 p.m., CT.All games will be streamed on Peacock and NBC Sports NOW.Tickets for the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic will go on sale via the T-Mobile Center box office and t-mobilecenter.com on Sept. 3.The Bulldogs are coming off their third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance in 2024-25 with a third straight 20-win season under head coach Chris Jans. They finished in a four-way tie for ninth in the rugged SEC with Arkansas, Georgia and Vanderbilt with an 8-10 mark.This will be the fifth all-time meeting between the schools and the first since a 67-61 MSU win at the Never Forget Tribute Classic in Newark, N.J., on Dec. 14, 2019. K-State won the previous three meetings in the series in 1984, 1985 and 1994.Nebraska won the inaugural College Basketball Crown tournament championship in 2025, finishing with a 21-14 record and a 7-13 mark in Big Ten play. New Mexico (27-8) captured the Mountain West regular-season championship with a 17-3 record and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament for the second straight season.K-State leads the all-time series with both Nebraska (128-94) and New Mexico (4-2), having last met the Lobos in 2006 and Cornhuskers in 2023.K-State will be making its fourth appearance in the Hall of Fame Classic and the first since 2021. The Wildcats finished as the tournament runner-up in their first two visits, defeating No. 18 Gonzaga before losing to top-ranked Duke in 2010 and defeating Missouri before losing to No. 9 North Carolina in 2015. The team lost to No. 13 Arkansas and No. 14 Illinois in their most recent appearance in 2021.The Hall of Fame Classic was created by the Kansas City-based National Association of Basketball Classic (NABC) in 2001 as the Guardians Classic and was later known as the CBE Classic and CBE Hall of Fame Classic before being rebranded as the Hall of Fame Classic in 2017.

K-State to Play Mississippi State in Hall of Fame Classic

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. is going to again play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, and next year certainly will have a bigger role than last time.

Witt announced Thursday that he is committed to playing for the United States and manager Mark DeRosa in the 2026 WBC. It will be Witt's second time on the team.

When part of Team USA in 2023, Witt was 22 and the youngest player on the roster who was coming off a standout rookie MLB season. He was a bench player who went 1 for 2 at the plate, and also was a pinch-runner in the ninth inning of the championship game won by Shohei Ohtani and Japan.

Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who will be the U.S. captain, and Pirates ace Paul Skenes have also committed to play for Team USA next spring.

“It’s truly an honor,” Witt, who turned 25 two weeks ago, told MLB Network. “It’s something I’ve kinda dreamed about my whole entire life. Just being part of that team a couple years ago was amazing, and now we’re going to bring home the gold.”

Witt was the runner-up to Judge in the American League MVP voting last season, when the shortstop led the majors with a .332 batting average. Witt hit .285 with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs in the Royals' first 80 games this year.

DeRose said on MLB Network that he approached Witt during spring training about playing in the 2026 WBC, to which the player responded, “100%. I'm starting, right?”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750963065010.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates with teammates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Chicago, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates with teammates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Chicago, Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. is going to again play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, and next year certainly will have a bigger role than last time.Witt announced Thursday that he is committed to playing for the United States and manager Mark DeRosa in the 2026 WBC. It will be Witt's second time on the team.When part of Team USA in 2023, Witt was 22 and the youngest player on the roster who was coming off a standout rookie MLB season. He was a bench player who went 1 for 2 at the plate, and also was a pinch-runner in the ninth inning of the championship game won by Shohei Ohtani and Japan.Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who will be the U.S. captain, and Pirates ace Paul Skenes have also committed to play for Team USA next spring.“It’s truly an honor,” Witt, who turned 25 two weeks ago, told MLB Network. “It’s something I’ve kinda dreamed about my whole entire life. Just being part of that team a couple years ago was amazing, and now we’re going to bring home the gold.”Witt was the runner-up to Judge in the American League MVP voting last season, when the shortstop led the majors with a .332 batting average. Witt hit .285 with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs in the Royals' first 80 games this year.DeRose said on MLB Network that he approached Witt during spring training about playing in the 2026 WBC, to which the player responded, “100%. I'm starting, right?”

Team USA's Bobby Witt Jr. ready for bigger role in 2026 World Baseball Classic

AMERICAN
LEAGUEEast
DivisionW	L	Pct	GB
New York	46	34	.575	—
Tampa Bay	45	35	.563	1
Toronto	42	37	.532	3½
Boston	40	42	.488	7
Baltimore	34	46	.425	12Central
Division
Detroit	50	31	.617	—
Cleveland	40	38	.513	8½Kansas
City	38	42	.475	11½
Minnesota	38	42	.475	11½
Chicago	26	55	.321	24West
Division
Houston	47	33	.588	—
Seattle	41	38	.519	5½
Los Angeles	40	40	.500	7
Texas	40	41	.494	7½
Athletics	33	49	.402	15NATIONAL
LEAGUEEast
DivisionW	L	Pct	GB
Philadelphia	47	33	.588	—
New York	47	34	.580	½
Atlanta	37	42	.468	9½
Miami	33	45	.423	13
Washington	33	48	.407	14½Central
Division
Chicago	47	33	.588	—
Milwaukee	45	36	.556	2½St.
Louis	44	37	.543	3½
Cincinnati	42	39	.519	5½
Pittsburgh	32	50	.390	16West
Division
Los Angeles	50	31	.617	—
San Diego	44	36	.550	5½
San Francisco	44	36	.550	5½
Arizona	41	39	.513	8½Colorado	18	62	.225	31½

MLB Standings 6/26

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Drew Rasmussen tossed five innings of two-hit ball, Tampa Bay scored three times in the second on an array of singles and bunts, and the Rays held on the rest of the way to beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 on Wednesday night.

Rasmussen (7-5) struck out five and walked two before turning it over to the Tampa Bay bullpen on a hot, humid night. Three relievers combined to allow one hit and one walk before Pete Fairbanks handled the ninth for his 14th save.

The Rays (45-35) have won five straight on the road, nine of their last 12 overall and are a season-best 10 games over .500.

José Caballero had an RBI bunt single and Danny Jansen laid down a sacrifice bunt against Michael Wacha during the decisive second for Tampa Bay. Christopher Morel, Josh Lowe and Chandler Simpson had singles in the inning.

Other than that, Wacha (4-7) was tough on the Rays. He went six innings and struck out nine while walking just one.

His biggest problem has been the Royals' biggest problem: They aren't scoring. Not only have they managed four runs total amid a four-game losing streak, they have given Wacha two runs of support or fewer in 13 of his 16 starts this season.

Kansas City has lost nine straight at Kauffman Stadium since beating Detroit on May 31, its longest home skid since dropping 10 in a row in April and May 2023. The Royals also have lost 10 of their last 14 games overall.

The Royals put runners on the corners in the fourth, but Salvador Perez popped out on his first pitch to end the threat.

Kansas City has not hit a home run in its last 54 innings at Kauffman Stadium.

Rays RHP Shane Baz (7-3, 4.79 ERA) starts the series finale Thursday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.81) starts for the Royals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750935025543.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Drew Rasmussen tossed five innings of two-hit ball, Tampa Bay scored three times in the second on an array of singles and bunts, and the Rays held on the rest of the way to beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0 on Wednesday night.Rasmussen (7-5) struck out five and walked two before turning it over to the Tampa Bay bullpen on a hot, humid night. Three relievers combined to allow one hit and one walk before Pete Fairbanks handled the ninth for his 14th save.The Rays (45-35) have won five straight on the road, nine of their last 12 overall and are a season-best 10 games over .500.José Caballero had an RBI bunt single and Danny Jansen laid down a sacrifice bunt against Michael Wacha during the decisive second for Tampa Bay. Christopher Morel, Josh Lowe and Chandler Simpson had singles in the inning.Other than that, Wacha (4-7) was tough on the Rays. He went six innings and struck out nine while walking just one.His biggest problem has been the Royals' biggest problem: They aren't scoring. Not only have they managed four runs total amid a four-game losing streak, they have given Wacha two runs of support or fewer in 13 of his 16 starts this season.Kansas City has lost nine straight at Kauffman Stadium since beating Detroit on May 31, its longest home skid since dropping 10 in a row in April and May 2023. The Royals also have lost 10 of their last 14 games overall.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Royals put runners on the corners in the fourth, but Salvador Perez popped out on his first pitch to end the threat.<h2>Key stat</h2>Kansas City has not hit a home run in its last 54 innings at Kauffman Stadium.<h2>Up next</h2>Rays RHP Shane Baz (7-3, 4.79 ERA) starts the series finale Thursday. RHP Michael Lorenzen (4-7, 4.81) starts for the Royals.

Rasmussen and the Rays bullpen shine in 3-0 win over Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Drew Rasmussen tossed five innings of two-hit ball, Tampa
Bay scored three times in the second inning and the Rays held on to
beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0. Rasmussen struck out five and walked
two before a trio of relievers got the game to Pete Fairbanks, who
handled the ninth for his 14th save. Tampa Bay has won five straight
on the road and nine of 12 overall, moving a season-best 10 games
over .500. Michael Wacha allowed all three runs for Kansas City. The
Royals have lost nine straight at Kauffman Stadium, their longest
home skid since dropping 10 in a row in April and May 2023.

ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Ian Happ hit a leadoff home run and drove in three, Matthew Boyd gave
up three hits in six scoreless innings and the Chicago Cubs beat the
St. Louis Cardinals 8-0. Reese McGuire and Kyle Tucker also homered
for the Cubs, who snapped a three-game losing streak. Boyd (7-3), who
struck out three and did not issue a walk, has allowed two or fewer
runs in each of his last six starts. Ryan Brasier, Michael Fulmer and
Porter Hodge combined to toss three scoreless innings of relief to
close out the shutout. Erick Fedde (3-7) allowed seven runs on eight
hits and three walks in 3 2/3 innings.

BALTIMORE (AP) —
When righthander Jacob deGrom is at his best, the Texas Rangers
believe he’s the best pitcher on the planet. DeGrom certainly is
looking like the pitcher who is a two-time Cy Young winner. He
flirted with a perfect game through six innings and a no-hitter
through seven Wednesday night in another dominating performance in
his return from Tommy John surgery in April 2023. DeGrom threw 89
pitches before being pulled after giving up his only hit to the first
batter he faced in the eighth. The Rangers finished off a 7-0 shutout
of the Baltimore Orioles. DeGrom tied his career-best streak at 13
straight starts giving up two or fewer earned runs.

MILWAUKEE (AP) —
Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski made extra effort to avoid getting
caught up in all the hype surrounding the rookie flamethrower’s
highly anticipated matchup with Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes.
Misiorowski better get accustomed to the extra attention. Misiorowski
owns a 3-0 record and 1.13 earned run average after leading the
Brewers to a 4-2 victory over Skenes' Pirates. Sportradar says the
three hits Misiorowski has allowed thus far is the fewest by any
major league pitcher through his first three career starts with a
minimum of 16 innings pitched since at least 1901.

A 22-year-old fan
who heckled Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte during a
game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on Tuesday night has
been banned indefinitely from all major league stadiums, a person
with direct knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.
Marte was seen in tears on the field after the spectator yelled a
derogatory comment about Marte’s late mother during a
seventh-inning at-bat in Arizona’s 4-1 win over Chicago. According
to a White Sox spokesperson, the security staff at the ballpark
relayed that the fan was “very apologetic and remorseful after the
fact, and admitted to being very inappropriate and stupid with his
comments."

SACRAMENTO, Calif.
(AP) — The Trump administration says California must change its
policies allowing transgender girls to compete on sports teams
consistent with their gender identity. The U.S. Education Department
says the policies violate a federal law banning sex discrimination in
education. U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon says California
could lose federal funding if it does not comply. But the state says
all students should have the opportunity to play. The issue garnered
renewed attention in California after a trans athlete recently
participated in the state high school track and field championship.
The sports governing body running the meet allowed more girls to
participate and medal in events in which the trans athlete was
competing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739459822020.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Drew Rasmussen tossed five innings of two-hit ball, Tampa
Bay scored three times in the second inning and the Rays held on to
beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0. Rasmussen struck out five and walked
two before a trio of relievers got the game to Pete Fairbanks, who
handled the ninth for his 14th save. Tampa Bay has won five straight
on the road and nine of 12 overall, moving a season-best 10 games
over .500. Michael Wacha allowed all three runs for Kansas City. The
Royals have lost nine straight at Kauffman Stadium, their longest
home skid since dropping 10 in a row in April and May 2023.ST. LOUIS (AP) —
Ian Happ hit a leadoff home run and drove in three, Matthew Boyd gave
up three hits in six scoreless innings and the Chicago Cubs beat the
St. Louis Cardinals 8-0. Reese McGuire and Kyle Tucker also homered
for the Cubs, who snapped a three-game losing streak. Boyd (7-3), who
struck out three and did not issue a walk, has allowed two or fewer
runs in each of his last six starts. Ryan Brasier, Michael Fulmer and
Porter Hodge combined to toss three scoreless innings of relief to
close out the shutout. Erick Fedde (3-7) allowed seven runs on eight
hits and three walks in 3 2/3 innings.BALTIMORE (AP) —
When righthander Jacob deGrom is at his best, the Texas Rangers
believe he’s the best pitcher on the planet. DeGrom certainly is
looking like the pitcher who is a two-time Cy Young winner. He
flirted with a perfect game through six innings and a no-hitter
through seven Wednesday night in another dominating performance in
his return from Tommy John surgery in April 2023. DeGrom threw 89
pitches before being pulled after giving up his only hit to the first
batter he faced in the eighth. The Rangers finished off a 7-0 shutout
of the Baltimore Orioles. DeGrom tied his career-best streak at 13
straight starts giving up two or fewer earned runs.MILWAUKEE (AP) —
Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski made extra effort to avoid getting
caught up in all the hype surrounding the rookie flamethrower’s
highly anticipated matchup with Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes.
Misiorowski better get accustomed to the extra attention. Misiorowski
owns a 3-0 record and 1.13 earned run average after leading the
Brewers to a 4-2 victory over Skenes' Pirates. Sportradar says the
three hits Misiorowski has allowed thus far is the fewest by any
major league pitcher through his first three career starts with a
minimum of 16 innings pitched since at least 1901.A 22-year-old fan
who heckled Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte during a
game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on Tuesday night has
been banned indefinitely from all major league stadiums, a person
with direct knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.
Marte was seen in tears on the field after the spectator yelled a
derogatory comment about Marte’s late mother during a
seventh-inning at-bat in Arizona’s 4-1 win over Chicago. According
to a White Sox spokesperson, the security staff at the ballpark
relayed that the fan was “very apologetic and remorseful after the
fact, and admitted to being very inappropriate and stupid with his
comments."SACRAMENTO, Calif.
(AP) — The Trump administration says California must change its
policies allowing transgender girls to compete on sports teams
consistent with their gender identity. The U.S. Education Department
says the policies violate a federal law banning sex discrimination in
education. U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon says California
could lose federal funding if it does not comply. But the state says
all students should have the opportunity to play. The issue garnered
renewed attention in California after a trans athlete recently
participated in the state high school track and field championship.
The sports governing body running the meet allowed more girls to
participate and medal in events in which the trans athlete was
competing.NEW YORK (AP) —
Cooper Flagg is headed to the Dallas Mavericks, who may have found
their next franchise superstar less than five months after trading
one away. The Mavericks took the Duke forward with the No. 1 pick in
the draft Wednesday night, selecting the 18-year-old who was the
college player of the year in his lone season. Mavericks fans were
furious when Dallas traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers on
Feb. 1, some immediately threatening to end their support of the
team. But the ones who stuck around may quickly love Flagg, who
averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds while leading Duke to the Final
Four. Rutgers freshman Dylan Harper was taken by San Antonio with the
No. 2 pick.NEW YORK (AP) — It
was mother’s day at the NBA draft Wednesday night. The moms of the
NBA draftees took centerstage, receiving hugs and wiping away tears
from their sons. Kelly Flagg, whose son Cooper went first to the
Dallas Mavericks, was a strong player in her own right. She starred
for the University of Maine in the late 1990s. The 1998-99 team she
was on made school history when they won the programs’ first-ever
NCAA Tournament game, upsetting Stanford,UNDATED (AP) — The
players selected in the first round of the 2025 NBA draft. Duke
freshman Cooper Flagg went first overall to the Dallas Mavericks.
Flagg became the fourth freshman named Associated Press men's
national player of the year. San Antonio took Rutgers freshman point
guard Dylan Harper at No. 2. Philadelphia grabbed Baylor freshman
guard VJ Edgecombe at No. 3. Duke had three top-10 picks with Kon
Knueppel going fourth and Khaman Maluach going 10th. Rutgers had a
second pick with Ace Bailey at No. 5. Illnois also had a pair of
teammates in Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley.UNDATED (AP) — The
ability of college athletes to cash in on their collegiate fame has
led to fewer players jumping early to the NBA draft. Eighty-two
players appeared on the list of early entrants primarily from
American colleges along with other teams. That's down from 162 in
2024. Additionally, 46 early college entrants and international
players stayed in the draft after withdrawal deadlines. That's down
from 77 last year. College athletes were permitted to profit on their
name, image and likeness (NIL) in July 2021. This week's draft begins
days before the start of revenue sharing for schools to pay athletes
directly.UNDATED (AP) — The
professionalization of college sports has prompted concern among team
physicians that they will be exposed to a greater risk of medical
liability lawsuits by injured athletes who claim a poor outcome
caused them to lose future earnings. Schools set to share millions
this year in direct payments to athletes. Some already make well into
the millions. Though no malpractice lawsuits seeking lost future
earnings at the college level are known to have been filed, Big Ten
chief medical officer Dr. James Borchers says it’s only a matter of
time.WEDNESDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Chicago White
Sox	7	Arizona	3	Final	N.Y.
Yankees	7	Cincinnati	1	Final	Houston	2	Philadelphia	0	AMERICAN LEAGUEFinal	L.A.
Angels	5	Boston	2	Final	Texas	7	Baltimore	0	Final	Athletics	3	Detroit	0	Final	Cleveland	5	Toronto	4	Final	Minnesota	2	Seattle	0	Final	Tampa
Bay	3	Kansas City	0	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Milwaukee	4	Pittsburgh	2	Final	San
Diego	1	Washington	0	Final	N.Y.
Mets	7	Atlanta	3	Final	Chicago
Cubs	8	St. Louis	0	Final	L.A.
Dodgers	8	Colorado	1	Final	Miami	8	San
Francisco	5