NEW YORK (AP) — Salvador Perez hit his milestone 250th homer and Bobby Witt Jr. scored four times to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-7 win over the New York Mets on Saturday.

Perez, who won the 2015 World Series MVP when Kansas City beat the Mets in five games, laced a two-run single in the second before hitting a replay-aided two-run homer in the fourth. He was originally credited with an RBI double when Brandon Nimmo got a piece of the ball as he crashed into the left-center-field wall, but the Royals challenged and a review showed the ball rolled over the orange home-run line.

“Means a lot — super exciting, especially (in) the win,” Perez said. “Hopefully many more.”

Perez is the sixth Venezuela-born player to hit 250 homers as well as the 12th primary catcher in big league history to do so.

“It’s special for us — everybody that gets to witness this, day in and day out, the fans in Kansas City have seen it for 13 years now,” second-year Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Just to be here everyday and watch somebody like him, as professional as he is, continue to rack up those accolades is really special.”

The four-run game was the second of the week for Witt, who also scored four times in Thursday’s 13-3 win over the Houston Astros. He just missed scoring a fifth run in the sixth inning Saturday, when Nimmo robbed him of a three-run homer with a leaping catch at the right-center-field wall.

Nick Loftin collected a career-high three RBIs as Kansas City improved to 10-5 — just the seventh time in franchise history the Royals have won at least 10 of their first 15 games.

The Royals have outscored their opponents 84-46, which is the second-largest run differential in team history through 15 games behind the 1977 team (plus-39), which won 102 games and the AL West.

“We’re trying to make it an everyday thing — just showing up to the yard, knowing that we’re supposed to win,” Witt said. “That’s how you’ve got to prepare. You can’t come to the field being skeptical about anything. Just come to the field ready to play ready to win.”

Alec Marsh (2-0) gave up four runs in five innings.

Pete Alonso hit solo homers to left in the third and sixth and finished with three RBIs for the Mets, who were trying to get to .500 for the first time this season. New York trailed 11-4 in the sixth but got the tying run on deck in the ninth, when Francisco Lindor grounded out against James McArthur to strand two.

“Got down a few runs there and continued to put together good at-bats, continued to put pressure, continued to get traffic all the way to the end,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “Guys battled them pitch to pitch. That’s good to see, obviously.”

The multi-homer game was the 20th for Alonso, leaving him just two shy of Darryl Strawberry’s franchise record.

Sean Manaea (1-1) allowed eight runs (six earned) in 3 2/3 innings. He surrendered just one run over 11 innings in his first two starts.

Royals: IF Michael Massey (lower back strain) went 2-for-4 in his fourth rehab game with Double-A Omaha Saturday. Massey is 6-of-18 with the Storm Chasers.

Mets: RHP Kodai Senga (right shoulder strain), who is on the 60-day injured list and ineligible to return until May 27, was slated to throw from 120 feet Saturday. … Manager Carlos Mendoza said DH J.D. Martinez (back) is still not participating in baseball activities, four days after he received a cortisone shot. … RHP Sean Reid-Foley (right shoulder) is scheduled to throw an inning for Single-A Brooklyn on Sunday.

The series concludes Sunday, when the Mets plan to recall RHP José Buttó (0-0, 1.50 ERA) from Triple-A Syracuse to start against Royals LHP Cole Ragans (0-1, 2.60 ERA).

NEW YORK (AP) — Salvador Perez hit his milestone 250th homer and Bobby Witt Jr. scored four times to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-7 win over the New York Mets on Saturday.Perez, who won the 2015 World Series MVP when Kansas City beat the Mets in five games, laced a two-run single in the second before hitting a replay-aided two-run homer in the fourth. He was originally credited with an RBI double when Brandon Nimmo got a piece of the ball as he crashed into the left-center-field wall, but the Royals challenged and a review showed the ball rolled over the orange home-run line.“Means a lot — super exciting, especially (in) the win,” Perez said. “Hopefully many more.”Perez is the sixth Venezuela-born player to hit 250 homers as well as the 12th primary catcher in big league history to do so.“It’s special for us — everybody that gets to witness this, day in and day out, the fans in Kansas City have seen it for 13 years now,” second-year Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Just to be here everyday and watch somebody like him, as professional as he is, continue to rack up those accolades is really special.”The four-run game was the second of the week for Witt, who also scored four times in Thursday’s 13-3 win over the Houston Astros. He just missed scoring a fifth run in the sixth inning Saturday, when Nimmo robbed him of a three-run homer with a leaping catch at the right-center-field wall.Nick Loftin collected a career-high three RBIs as Kansas City improved to 10-5 — just the seventh time in franchise history the Royals have won at least 10 of their first 15 games.The Royals have outscored their opponents 84-46, which is the second-largest run differential in team history through 15 games behind the 1977 team (plus-39), which won 102 games and the AL West.“We’re trying to make it an everyday thing — just showing up to the yard, knowing that we’re supposed to win,” Witt said. “That’s how you’ve got to prepare. You can’t come to the field being skeptical about anything. Just come to the field ready to play ready to win.”Alec Marsh (2-0) gave up four runs in five innings.Pete Alonso hit solo homers to left in the third and sixth and finished with three RBIs for the Mets, who were trying to get to .500 for the first time this season. New York trailed 11-4 in the sixth but got the tying run on deck in the ninth, when Francisco Lindor grounded out against James McArthur to strand two.“Got down a few runs there and continued to put together good at-bats, continued to put pressure, continued to get traffic all the way to the end,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “Guys battled them pitch to pitch. That’s good to see, obviously.”The multi-homer game was the 20th for Alonso, leaving him just two shy of Darryl Strawberry’s franchise record.Sean Manaea (1-1) allowed eight runs (six earned) in 3 2/3 innings. He surrendered just one run over 11 innings in his first two starts.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: IF Michael Massey (lower back strain) went 2-for-4 in his fourth rehab game with Double-A Omaha Saturday. Massey is 6-of-18 with the Storm Chasers.Mets: RHP Kodai Senga (right shoulder strain), who is on the 60-day injured list and ineligible to return until May 27, was slated to throw from 120 feet Saturday. … Manager Carlos Mendoza said DH J.D. Martinez (back) is still not participating in baseball activities, four days after he received a cortisone shot. … RHP Sean Reid-Foley (right shoulder) is scheduled to throw an inning for Single-A Brooklyn on Sunday.UP NEXTThe series concludes Sunday, when the Mets plan to recall RHP José Buttó (0-0, 1.50 ERA) from Triple-A Syracuse to start against Royals LHP Cole Ragans (0-1, 2.60 ERA).

Salvador Perez homers as Royals beat Mets 11-7

The Lady Panthers wrapped up a busy week of softball with four games in Dodge City Friday and Saturday. After playing into the night and finishing Friday at 0-2, Great Bend bounced back Saturday to defeat Derby 9-8 and Wichita Northwest 18-3. The Lady Panthers now sit at 13-3 on the season.

Great Bend 9, Derby 8 Saturday morning's opener went back and forth with a 4-4 tied after three innings and a 6-6 tied heading into the seventh. Denver Ringo and Chayla Prendergast walked to open the top of the seventh. With two outs in the books, Camdyn Post delivered a single that scored Ringo and Braelyn Turner, running for Prendergast. Kya Behr kept the inning alive with a single, then DeShawnna Bryant singled in Post for what turned out to be the game-winning run. Derby plated two runs in the bottom of the seventh but left the game-tying run stranded on second.

Prendergast threw all seven innings for the win, striking out one and allowing seven earned runs on 10 hits. At the plate, the freshman homered for her lone hit in the game though she also walked twice.

Kamryn Koelch had three hits, including a double, to drive in two runs. Post singled four times.

Great Bend 18, Wichita Northwest 3 Game two Saturday was much less dramatic as Great Bend plated 10 runs in the first inning and added four more runs in each of the next two innings.

Alyssa McCauley homered, driving in three runs. Behr went 4-for-4 with three doubles, driving in four and scoring three times. Paige Thexton doubled, singled twice, and walked, driving in two runs and scoring four times. Koelsch doubled and walked twice, and Halle Post doubled. Bryant singled twice and walked, driving in two and scoring once.

Turner recorded five outs with three earned runs allowed on five walks. Thexton pitched the final four outs, striking out two in the combined no-hitter.

Goddard-Eisenhower 9, Great Bend 4 Things went well for five innings to open Friday's play. Both teams scored in the first inning and that score remained until the Tigers put up a 7-spot in the sixth inning. Great Bend answered with three runs in the bottom of the sixth but could not overcome the deficit.&nbsp;

Bryant doubled twice to lead the offense. Thexton and Behr each added two singles.

Turner pitched into the sixth, striking out five and walking four. She allowed three earned runs on one hit. Prendergast pitched the final six outs, striking out three and allowing two earned runs on four hits. The Tigers scored four unearned runs against the freshman.

Maize South 10, Great Bend 3 The Lady Panthers again got off to a big start in game two Friday with a 2-0 lead after one inning. The Mavs tied things up in the second, then scored six runs in the third inning.

Prendergast picked up the loss, allowing eight earned runs on seven hits with two strikeouts in 2.1 innings. Turner pitched 3.2 innings, allowing one earned run on five hits with a strikeout. McCauley threw an inning with one hit allowed.

The Lady Panther offense managed just six hits with no walks. McCauley doubled and singled, driving in two of the three runs. Bryant doubled for her lone hit, and Behr singled in the other run.

Great Bend travels to Hays on Tuesday for a single game, then hosts the Lady Indians for two games on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673886582717.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post SportsThe Lady Panthers wrapped up a busy week of softball with four games in Dodge City Friday and Saturday. After playing into the night and finishing Friday at 0-2, Great Bend bounced back Saturday to defeat Derby 9-8 and Wichita Northwest 18-3. The Lady Panthers now sit at 13-3 on the season.Great Bend 9, Derby 8 Saturday morning's opener went back and forth with a 4-4 tied after three innings and a 6-6 tied heading into the seventh. Denver Ringo and Chayla Prendergast walked to open the top of the seventh. With two outs in the books, Camdyn Post delivered a single that scored Ringo and Braelyn Turner, running for Prendergast. Kya Behr kept the inning alive with a single, then DeShawnna Bryant singled in Post for what turned out to be the game-winning run. Derby plated two runs in the bottom of the seventh but left the game-tying run stranded on second.Prendergast threw all seven innings for the win, striking out one and allowing seven earned runs on 10 hits. At the plate, the freshman homered for her lone hit in the game though she also walked twice.Kamryn Koelch had three hits, including a double, to drive in two runs. Post singled four times.Great Bend 18, Wichita Northwest 3 Game two Saturday was much less dramatic as Great Bend plated 10 runs in the first inning and added four more runs in each of the next two innings.Alyssa McCauley homered, driving in three runs. Behr went 4-for-4 with three doubles, driving in four and scoring three times. Paige Thexton doubled, singled twice, and walked, driving in two runs and scoring four times. Koelsch doubled and walked twice, and Halle Post doubled. Bryant singled twice and walked, driving in two and scoring once.Turner recorded five outs with three earned runs allowed on five walks. Thexton pitched the final four outs, striking out two in the combined no-hitter.Goddard-Eisenhower 9, Great Bend 4 Things went well for five innings to open Friday's play. Both teams scored in the first inning and that score remained until the Tigers put up a 7-spot in the sixth inning. Great Bend answered with three runs in the bottom of the sixth but could not overcome the deficit.&nbsp;Bryant doubled twice to lead the offense. Thexton and Behr each added two singles.Turner pitched into the sixth, striking out five and walking four. She allowed three earned runs on one hit. Prendergast pitched the final six outs, striking out three and allowing two earned runs on four hits. The Tigers scored four unearned runs against the freshman.Maize South 10, Great Bend 3 The Lady Panthers again got off to a big start in game two Friday with a 2-0 lead after one inning. The Mavs tied things up in the second, then scored six runs in the third inning.Prendergast picked up the loss, allowing eight earned runs on seven hits with two strikeouts in 2.1 innings. Turner pitched 3.2 innings, allowing one earned run on five hits with a strikeout. McCauley threw an inning with one hit allowed.The Lady Panther offense managed just six hits with no walks. McCauley doubled and singled, driving in two of the three runs. Bryant doubled for her lone hit, and Behr singled in the other run.Great Bend travels to Hays on Tuesday for a single game, then hosts the Lady Indians for two games on Thursday.

Lady Panther softball rebounds with two wins at Dodge City

NEW YORK (AP) — Pete Alonso homered and Luis Severino earned his first win for the New York Mets, who snapped Kansas City's seven-game winning streak Friday night with a 6-1 victory over the Royals.

Brett Baty hit a two-run double and the Mets scored all five of their runs off starter Michael Wacha with two outs. New York reached double digits in hits for the fourth consecutive game and has won six of eight following an 0-5 start.

“We are finding our footing. We are sticking with each other. We are playing the game the right way. We don’t have the team to go out there and roll through teams," shortstop Francisco Lindor said. "Now we are in a place where we are playing every inning the right way.”

Coming off a 7-0 homestand that marked the longest winning streak in the majors this season, the surprising Royals (9-5) were looking for their first eight-game winning streak since a nine-game run in July 2017.

Salvador Perez homered for the Royals, making their first visit to Citi Field since June 2016. The year before that, they clinched the club’s second World Series title there.

Severino (1-1) worked around four walks in five innings during his third start for the Mets, who signed him to a $13 million, one-year contract in December after the two-time All-Star spent his first eight seasons across town with the Yankees.

“He just kept us on the end of the bat. We didn’t square a whole lot up,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “We had a couple opportunities with the walks, when he lost the zone a little bit, but we just didn’t capitalize.”

The only hit Severino gave up was a 433-foot leadoff homer by Perez in the second. The right-hander struck out four, including young star Bobby Witt Jr. with two runners aboard to end a 27-pitch fifth that began with a 12-pitch walk to Adam Frazier.

“Just get ahead in the count in a big situation. He's a great hitter,” Severino said. “Get ahead in the count and throw a good pitch to finish.”

Four relievers completed the three-hitter.

Jeff McNeil had three of New York's 14 hits, one day after the Mets pilled up 16 in a 16-4 blowout at Atlanta.

“I think as a team, we're winning ballgames and our confidence is growing. I feel like we're all meshing together, and we're playing well," Baty said.

Harrison Bader singled against Wacha (1-1) with two outs in the third and stole second before scoring on Brandon Nimmo's double.

New York hit four straight two-out singles in the fourth, with McNeil and DJ Stewart driving in runs. Baty's double just over center fielder Kyle Isbel's head made it 5-1 in the fifth.

“It's always good when you can have offensive games like that,” McNeil said. “Just grinded out at-bats.”

Wacha gave up 10 hits and two walks in six innings. Alonso launched his fourth homer on an 0-2 pitch from Will Smith leading off the eighth.

“They got some big two-out hits. You know, those are backbreaking at times, especially when they’re two-strike, two-out hits," Quatraro said. “But if you put up one run, it’s going to be tough to win.”

Royals: INF Michael Massey (low back strain) had a scheduled day off on his minor league rehab assignment after playing the previous two days. He is expected back in the lineup Saturday with Triple-A Omaha.

Mets: DH J.D. Martinez was still resting to allow an injection to take effect and hopefully will begin moving around again Saturday, manager Carlos Mendoza said. The 36-year-old Martinez was given a shot Tuesday to address lower back tightness that has delayed his season debut. The veteran slugger has been working out and playing at the team’s facility in Florida since signing a $12 million, one-year contract on March 23. ... Rookie RHP Jose Buttó will be recalled from the minors to start the series finale Sunday.

Mets LHP Sean Manaea (1-0, 0.82 ERA) pitches the middle game of the series Saturday against RHP Alec Marsh (1-0, 3.09). Manaea has struck out 14 and permitted just four hits over 11 innings in his first two starts for the Mets.

NEW YORK (AP) — Pete Alonso homered and Luis Severino earned his first win for the New York Mets, who snapped Kansas City's seven-game winning streak Friday night with a 6-1 victory over the Royals.Brett Baty hit a two-run double and the Mets scored all five of their runs off starter Michael Wacha with two outs. New York reached double digits in hits for the fourth consecutive game and has won six of eight following an 0-5 start.“We are finding our footing. We are sticking with each other. We are playing the game the right way. We don’t have the team to go out there and roll through teams," shortstop Francisco Lindor said. "Now we are in a place where we are playing every inning the right way.”Coming off a 7-0 homestand that marked the longest winning streak in the majors this season, the surprising Royals (9-5) were looking for their first eight-game winning streak since a nine-game run in July 2017.Salvador Perez homered for the Royals, making their first visit to Citi Field since June 2016. The year before that, they clinched the club’s second World Series title there.Severino (1-1) worked around four walks in five innings during his third start for the Mets, who signed him to a $13 million, one-year contract in December after the two-time All-Star spent his first eight seasons across town with the Yankees.“He just kept us on the end of the bat. We didn’t square a whole lot up,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “We had a couple opportunities with the walks, when he lost the zone a little bit, but we just didn’t capitalize.”The only hit Severino gave up was a 433-foot leadoff homer by Perez in the second. The right-hander struck out four, including young star Bobby Witt Jr. with two runners aboard to end a 27-pitch fifth that began with a 12-pitch walk to Adam Frazier.“Just get ahead in the count in a big situation. He's a great hitter,” Severino said. “Get ahead in the count and throw a good pitch to finish.”Four relievers completed the three-hitter.Jeff McNeil had three of New York's 14 hits, one day after the Mets pilled up 16 in a 16-4 blowout at Atlanta.“I think as a team, we're winning ballgames and our confidence is growing. I feel like we're all meshing together, and we're playing well," Baty said.Harrison Bader singled against Wacha (1-1) with two outs in the third and stole second before scoring on Brandon Nimmo's double.New York hit four straight two-out singles in the fourth, with McNeil and DJ Stewart driving in runs. Baty's double just over center fielder Kyle Isbel's head made it 5-1 in the fifth.“It's always good when you can have offensive games like that,” McNeil said. “Just grinded out at-bats.”Wacha gave up 10 hits and two walks in six innings. Alonso launched his fourth homer on an 0-2 pitch from Will Smith leading off the eighth.“They got some big two-out hits. You know, those are backbreaking at times, especially when they’re two-strike, two-out hits," Quatraro said. “But if you put up one run, it’s going to be tough to win.”TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: INF Michael Massey (low back strain) had a scheduled day off on his minor league rehab assignment after playing the previous two days. He is expected back in the lineup Saturday with Triple-A Omaha.Mets: DH J.D. Martinez was still resting to allow an injection to take effect and hopefully will begin moving around again Saturday, manager Carlos Mendoza said. The 36-year-old Martinez was given a shot Tuesday to address lower back tightness that has delayed his season debut. The veteran slugger has been working out and playing at the team’s facility in Florida since signing a $12 million, one-year contract on March 23. ... Rookie RHP Jose Buttó will be recalled from the minors to start the series finale Sunday.UP NEXTMets LHP Sean Manaea (1-0, 0.82 ERA) pitches the middle game of the series Saturday against RHP Alec Marsh (1-0, 3.09). Manaea has struck out 14 and permitted just four hits over 11 innings in his first two starts for the Mets.

Mets stop Royals' 7-game winning streak with 6-1 victory

NEW YORK (AP) — Pete Alonso homered and Luis Severino earned his first win for the New York Mets, who snapped Kansas City’s seven-game winning streak with a 6-1 victory over the Royals. Brett Baty hit a two-run double and the Mets scored all five of their runs off starter Michael Wacha with two outs. New York reached double digits in hits for the fourth consecutive game and has won six of eight following an 0-5 start. Coming off a 7-0 homestand that marked the longest winning streak in the majors this season, the surprising Royals were looking for their first eight-game winning streak since a nine-game run in July 2017. Salvador Perez homered for Kansas City.

PHOENIX (AP) — Nolan Arenado hit a three-run homer, Paul Goldschmidt had the go-ahead RBI single in the seventh and the St. Louis Cardinals rebounded from blowing a six-run lead to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-6. Lars Nootbaar added a two-run homer for the Cardinals in his return from the injured list. The Diamondbacks rallied from a 6-0 deficit, tying it with six runs in the fifth. Eugenio Suárez had the big blow with a tying, three-run homer off Giovanny Gallegos that just cleared the fence. The Cardinals shook off the collapse and jumped ahead 7-6 on Goldschmidt's single.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit his 175th home run in the majors, tying Hideki Matsui for the most by a Japanese-born player. He reached the mark with a solo shot during the first inning of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 8-7 loss in 11 innings against the San Diego Padres. Ohtani drove an elevated outside fastball by Michael King 403 feet into the center-field stands with one out. It was his fourth homer in eight games. Earlier, a federal judge ordered Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s former longtime interpreter, to undergo gambling addiction treatment in a sports betting case stemming from allegations he stole $16 million from Ohtani.

NEW YORK (AP) — The major league batting average dropped seven percentage points to .242 in the first two weeks of the season, while the average time of a nine-inning game rose two minutes to 2:39 in the second season of the pitch clock. Major League Baseball implemented restrictions on defensive shifts last year, when the batting average rose to .249 in the first 14 days from .230 the comparable period in 2022 and .235 in 2021. Last year’s final average of .248 was up from .243 in 2022 and .244 in 2021. The average rises during the course of the season as weather warms.

MIAMI (AP) — The Atlanta Braves say ace Spencer Strider will miss the rest of the season after having surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, Texas, performed the procedure on Friday. Strider complained about discomfort in his elbow after pitching four innings in Atlanta’s 6-5 win over Arizona on April 5. An MRI the next day revealed damage to his UCL. Strider was 20-5 in 2023 and led MLB in wins and strikeouts. He had a 7.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in two starts this year.

NEW YORK (AP) — A baseball agent at Bad Bunny’s Rimas Sports firm has lost his certification with the Major League Baseball Players Association. ESPN first reported the revocation, citing anonymous sources who said other agents had alleged improper benefits provided to players. The union declined to comment Friday on the reason for its decision to strip William Arroyo of his right to represent MLB players. Arroyo declined comment for now but said he would have something to say soon. The decision is subject to an appeal before a member of the American Arbitration Association, according to the union’s agent regulations.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has agreed to undergo court-ordered gambling addiction treatment after federal prosecutors accused him of stealing $16 million from the Japanese baseball player to pay off debts. Ippei Mizuhara’s initial appearance in federal court on Friday marked the first time the interpreter has been seen in public since the scandal exploded last month. Mizuhara’s attorney says he is seeking an agreement with the government to resolve the case. Ohtani says he is very grateful for the investigation and wants to focus on baseball going forward.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Perhaps the top perk for the 60 players who survived the wind at the Masters was getting a more pleasant weekend at Augusta National. Flags are flapping Saturday morning instead of crackling. There should be enough wind to create doubt. But the third round is shaping up to be more about scoring than surviving. Bryson DeChambeau, Scottie Scheffler and Max Homa are tied at the top. The weekend also includes Tiger Woods. It always does at the Masters when he has been healthy enough to play. Woods set the Masters record with his 24th cut in a row. He's seven shots back.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods has claimed more history at Augusta National, making the cut for a record 24th consecutive time. Of course, his sights are fixated on a far greater goal — a sixth green jacket. Woods broke the cut record he shared with three-time champion Gary Player and 1992 winner Fred Couples. Woods finished the second round at 1-over 145 for the tournament, safely above the projected cut line of 4 over. It was a grueling day for the five-time Masters champion, even more so considering the 48-year-old has endured numerous injuries, countless surgeries and a devastating car wreck that nearly cost him his right leg. He had to play the final five holes of the rain-delayed first round, then played another 18 holes after a short break.

WACO, Texas (AP) — Scott Drew will remain as Baylor’s men’s basketball coach, stating his desire to “bring more championships” to the program on social media after being linked to the Kentucky coaching vacancy following John Calipari’s departure to Arkansas. Drew mentioned his Christian faith in a post on X and expressed gratitude for support from athletic director Mack Rhoades and Baylor President Linda Livingstone. Alabama coach Nate Oats and Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan have also expressed commitment to their current coaching jobs.

N-Y Yankees	at	Cleveland	12:10 p.m.	(Postponed)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712497619824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Pete Alonso homered and Luis Severino earned his first win for the New York Mets, who snapped Kansas City’s seven-game winning streak with a 6-1 victory over the Royals. Brett Baty hit a two-run double and the Mets scored all five of their runs off starter Michael Wacha with two outs. New York reached double digits in hits for the fourth consecutive game and has won six of eight following an 0-5 start. Coming off a 7-0 homestand that marked the longest winning streak in the majors this season, the surprising Royals were looking for their first eight-game winning streak since a nine-game run in July 2017. Salvador Perez homered for Kansas City.PHOENIX (AP) — Nolan Arenado hit a three-run homer, Paul Goldschmidt had the go-ahead RBI single in the seventh and the St. Louis Cardinals rebounded from blowing a six-run lead to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-6. Lars Nootbaar added a two-run homer for the Cardinals in his return from the injured list. The Diamondbacks rallied from a 6-0 deficit, tying it with six runs in the fifth. Eugenio Suárez had the big blow with a tying, three-run homer off Giovanny Gallegos that just cleared the fence. The Cardinals shook off the collapse and jumped ahead 7-6 on Goldschmidt's single.LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit his 175th home run in the majors, tying Hideki Matsui for the most by a Japanese-born player. He reached the mark with a solo shot during the first inning of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 8-7 loss in 11 innings against the San Diego Padres. Ohtani drove an elevated outside fastball by Michael King 403 feet into the center-field stands with one out. It was his fourth homer in eight games. Earlier, a federal judge ordered Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s former longtime interpreter, to undergo gambling addiction treatment in a sports betting case stemming from allegations he stole $16 million from Ohtani.NEW YORK (AP) — The major league batting average dropped seven percentage points to .242 in the first two weeks of the season, while the average time of a nine-inning game rose two minutes to 2:39 in the second season of the pitch clock. Major League Baseball implemented restrictions on defensive shifts last year, when the batting average rose to .249 in the first 14 days from .230 the comparable period in 2022 and .235 in 2021. Last year’s final average of .248 was up from .243 in 2022 and .244 in 2021. The average rises during the course of the season as weather warms.MIAMI (AP) — The Atlanta Braves say ace Spencer Strider will miss the rest of the season after having surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, Texas, performed the procedure on Friday. Strider complained about discomfort in his elbow after pitching four innings in Atlanta’s 6-5 win over Arizona on April 5. An MRI the next day revealed damage to his UCL. Strider was 20-5 in 2023 and led MLB in wins and strikeouts. He had a 7.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in two starts this year.NEW YORK (AP) — A baseball agent at Bad Bunny’s Rimas Sports firm has lost his certification with the Major League Baseball Players Association. ESPN first reported the revocation, citing anonymous sources who said other agents had alleged improper benefits provided to players. The union declined to comment Friday on the reason for its decision to strip William Arroyo of his right to represent MLB players. Arroyo declined comment for now but said he would have something to say soon. The decision is subject to an appeal before a member of the American Arbitration Association, according to the union’s agent regulations.LOS ANGELES (AP) — The former longtime interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has agreed to undergo court-ordered gambling addiction treatment after federal prosecutors accused him of stealing $16 million from the Japanese baseball player to pay off debts. Ippei Mizuhara’s initial appearance in federal court on Friday marked the first time the interpreter has been seen in public since the scandal exploded last month. Mizuhara’s attorney says he is seeking an agreement with the government to resolve the case. Ohtani says he is very grateful for the investigation and wants to focus on baseball going forward.AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Perhaps the top perk for the 60 players who survived the wind at the Masters was getting a more pleasant weekend at Augusta National. Flags are flapping Saturday morning instead of crackling. There should be enough wind to create doubt. But the third round is shaping up to be more about scoring than surviving. Bryson DeChambeau, Scottie Scheffler and Max Homa are tied at the top. The weekend also includes Tiger Woods. It always does at the Masters when he has been healthy enough to play. Woods set the Masters record with his 24th cut in a row. He's seven shots back.AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Tiger Woods has claimed more history at Augusta National, making the cut for a record 24th consecutive time. Of course, his sights are fixated on a far greater goal — a sixth green jacket. Woods broke the cut record he shared with three-time champion Gary Player and 1992 winner Fred Couples. Woods finished the second round at 1-over 145 for the tournament, safely above the projected cut line of 4 over. It was a grueling day for the five-time Masters champion, even more so considering the 48-year-old has endured numerous injuries, countless surgeries and a devastating car wreck that nearly cost him his right leg. He had to play the final five holes of the rain-delayed first round, then played another 18 holes after a short break.WACO, Texas (AP) — Scott Drew will remain as Baylor’s men’s basketball coach, stating his desire to “bring more championships” to the program on social media after being linked to the Kentucky coaching vacancy following John Calipari’s departure to Arkansas. Drew mentioned his Christian faith in a post on X and expressed gratitude for support from athletic director Mack Rhoades and Baylor President Linda Livingstone. Alabama coach Nate Oats and Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan have also expressed commitment to their current coaching jobs.FRIDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALLINTERLEAGUEFinal	Tampa Bay	2	San Francisco	1	Final	N.Y. Mets	6	Kansas City	1	Final	Milwaukee	11	Baltimore	1	Final	Colorado	12	Toronto	4	Final	Cincinnati	11	Chicago White Sox	1	Final	Seattle	4	Chicago Cubs	2	Final	Oakland	2	Washington	1	AMERICAN LEAGUEN-Y Yankees	at	Cleveland	12:10 p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Detroit	8	Minnesota	2	Final	L.A. Angels	7	Boston	0	Final	Texas	12	Houston	8	NATIONAL LEAGUEFinal	Pittsburgh	5	Philadelphia	2	Final	Atlanta	8	Miami	1	Final	St. Louis	9	Arizona	6	Final	San Diego	8	L.A. Dodgers	7	NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	129	Washington	127	Final	Philadelphia	125	Orlando	113	Final	Boston	131	Charlotte	98	Final	Cleveland	129	Indiana	120	Final	New York	111	Brooklyn	107	Final	Miami	125	Toronto	103	Final	San Antonio	121	Denver	120	Final	L.A. Lakers	123	Memphis	120	Final	Minnesota	109	Atlanta	106	Final	Detroit	107	Dallas	89	Final	Houston	116	Portland	107	Final	New Orleans	114	Golden State	109	Final	Utah	110	L.A. Clippers	109	Final	Phoenix	108	Sacramento	107	Final	Oklahoma City	125	Milwaukee	107	NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUEFinal	Carolina	5	St. Louis	2	Final	Nashville	5	Chicago	1	Final OT	Arizona	3	Edmonton	2	Final	Vegas	7	Minnesota	2	Final	Calgary	6	Anaheim	3

Saturday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

The Lady Panther
track team picked up a pair of elite gold medals at the Pre-State Meet at
Wichita State University on Thursday and Friday. The top athletes from all
classes of the schools in competition go head-to-head in the elite division.
Other competitions are broken into Classes 6-4A and 3-1A.

On Thursday,
senior Macy Nachtigal added more than five feet to her season best in the
javelin to win by more than seven feet at 129-9. That mark leads Class 5A and ranks
No. 9 in all of Kansas this spring.

With a change in
the lineup, the 4x800m team cut 25 seconds off its previous season best to win
the elite division by less than two seconds ahead of Wichita Collegiate in
9:50.83. Friday’s team was comprised of Reese Bullard, Addy Nicholson, Sienna
Smith, and Eliana Beckham. Great Bend now ranks No. 2 in 5A and is top-five
among all classes. The Lady Panther 4x400 team cut nine seconds from a season
best to place fourth in 4:11.86, the fourth-fastest time in 5A this spring.

Beckham was part
of the elite 800m field, cutting three seconds off her season best to finish
sixth in 2:23.62, the No. 4 time in 5A and close to a top-10 time all-class.

Nicholson cut two
seconds off her 1600m time to place sixth in the elite division in 5:31.84.
Class 5A is tough in that event with one runner under 5:00 this year and three
more under 5:15.

Senior Sadie Spray
cut nearly a second off her best 300m hurdle time of the season to place sixth
in 49.28. That event featured one of the fastest hurdlers in Kansas history in
Wichita Northwest senior Adryana Shelby, who claimed the gold in 44.38, and 5A
newcomer Ashley Singateh of Maize South, who collected the silver in 45.37.
Spray’s time ranks No. 9 in 5A.

Spray and junior
Cassie Ellegood were part of the elite high jump field. Both came up short of
season bests to tie for seventh at 4-11.75. 

Junior Marissa
Boone cut 26 seconds off her best 3200m time of the season to finish sixth in
the elite division in 11:54.36. Senior Morgan Beckwith and freshman Teah King
did not compete in the elite 3200m run, but Beckwith shaved 27 seconds from her
season best to place third in the 6-4A race in 12:07.24. King cut more than 25
seconds for fourth in 12:14.00. Boone now ranks No. 11 in a tough 5A field.

Not many high
school meets include the 2000m steeplechase. Lady Panther freshman Bella Long
made her debut in the event, placing third in 8:31.77 to miss the silver by
seven seconds.

Sophomore Kimberly
Hofflinger added to her season best in the discus to win the 6-4A class by more
than four feet at 107-8.25. Sophomore MacKenzie Lindberg finished fourth at
99-5.75.

On the boys’ side,
freshman Cooper Ohnmacht made his debut in the elite triple jump. Ranked No. 1
in 5A entering the meet, he missed his top mark of the season but finished
second at 43-9.25 to miss the gold by nearly two feet. Ohnmacht was also part
of the elite long jump field where he finished third at 21-4, just a
quarter-inch from the silver.

Other notable
finishes in 6-4A competition: Boys
 400m dash: 6. Ramiro Rocho, 51.61. 800m run: 12.
Braylon Moore, 2:08.39. 1600m run: 9.
Ismael Ramirez, 4:40.33. 3200m run: 10.
Tavon Stroup, 10:29.51. 4x8: 6. GB,
8:38.16. Long jump: 14: Ben
Nicholson, 38-1.75. Javelin: 7.
Matthew Johnson, 142-8.25.

Girls
 400m dash: 3. Reese Bullard, 1:02.29. 800m run: 6.
Sienna Smith, 2:32.47. 1600m run: 5.
Sienna Smith, 5:39.09. Triple Jump: 6.
Cassie Ellegood, 32-8.5; 12. Jordyn Harbaugh, 31-0. Pole vault: 12.
Kaylea McMullen, 7-6. Shot put: 8. Allie
Gerhart, 32-11.75.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712980782658.jpeg" alt="Great Bend senior Macy Nachtigal kicked off the Pre-State Meet in Wichita with a gold medal in the javelin Thursday. Macksville senior Mayce Russell finished second." />
 <figcaption>Great Bend senior Macy Nachtigal kicked off the Pre-State Meet in Wichita with a gold medal in the javelin Thursday. Macksville senior Mayce Russell finished second.</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post
SportsThe Lady Panther
track team picked up a pair of elite gold medals at the Pre-State Meet at
Wichita State University on Thursday and Friday. The top athletes from all
classes of the schools in competition go head-to-head in the elite division.
Other competitions are broken into Classes 6-4A and 3-1A.On Thursday,
senior Macy Nachtigal added more than five feet to her season best in the
javelin to win by more than seven feet at 129-9. That mark leads Class 5A and ranks
No. 9 in all of Kansas this spring.With a change in
the lineup, the 4x800m team cut 25 seconds off its previous season best to win
the elite division by less than two seconds ahead of Wichita Collegiate in
9:50.83. Friday’s team was comprised of Reese Bullard, Addy Nicholson, Sienna
Smith, and Eliana Beckham. Great Bend now ranks No. 2 in 5A and is top-five
among all classes. The Lady Panther 4x400 team cut nine seconds from a season
best to place fourth in 4:11.86, the fourth-fastest time in 5A this spring.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712980847311.jpeg" alt="The Lady Panther 4x8 team of Reese Bullard, Addy Nicholson, Sienna Smith, and Eliana Beckham won Great Bend's other elite gold in Wichita." />
 <figcaption>The Lady Panther 4x8 team of Reese Bullard, Addy Nicholson, Sienna Smith, and Eliana Beckham won Great Bend's other elite gold in Wichita.</figcaption>
 </figure>Beckham was part
of the elite 800m field, cutting three seconds off her season best to finish
sixth in 2:23.62, the No. 4 time in 5A and close to a top-10 time all-class.Nicholson cut two
seconds off her 1600m time to place sixth in the elite division in 5:31.84.
Class 5A is tough in that event with one runner under 5:00 this year and three
more under 5:15.Senior Sadie Spray
cut nearly a second off her best 300m hurdle time of the season to place sixth
in 49.28. That event featured one of the fastest hurdlers in Kansas history in
Wichita Northwest senior Adryana Shelby, who claimed the gold in 44.38, and 5A
newcomer Ashley Singateh of Maize South, who collected the silver in 45.37.
Spray’s time ranks No. 9 in 5A.Spray and junior
Cassie Ellegood were part of the elite high jump field. Both came up short of
season bests to tie for seventh at 4-11.75. Junior Marissa
Boone cut 26 seconds off her best 3200m time of the season to finish sixth in
the elite division in 11:54.36. Senior Morgan Beckwith and freshman Teah King
did not compete in the elite 3200m run, but Beckwith shaved 27 seconds from her
season best to place third in the 6-4A race in 12:07.24. King cut more than 25
seconds for fourth in 12:14.00. Boone now ranks No. 11 in a tough 5A field.Not many high
school meets include the 2000m steeplechase. Lady Panther freshman Bella Long
made her debut in the event, placing third in 8:31.77 to miss the silver by
seven seconds.Sophomore Kimberly
Hofflinger added to her season best in the discus to win the 6-4A class by more
than four feet at 107-8.25. Sophomore MacKenzie Lindberg finished fourth at
99-5.75.On the boys’ side,
freshman Cooper Ohnmacht made his debut in the elite triple jump. Ranked No. 1
in 5A entering the meet, he missed his top mark of the season but finished
second at 43-9.25 to miss the gold by nearly two feet. Ohnmacht was also part
of the elite long jump field where he finished third at 21-4, just a
quarter-inch from the silver.Other notable
finishes in 6-4A competition: Boys
 400m dash: 6. Ramiro Rocho, 51.61. 800m run: 12.
Braylon Moore, 2:08.39. 1600m run: 9.
Ismael Ramirez, 4:40.33. 3200m run: 10.
Tavon Stroup, 10:29.51. 4x8: 6. GB,
8:38.16. Long jump: 14: Ben
Nicholson, 38-1.75. Javelin: 7.
Matthew Johnson, 142-8.25.Girls
 400m dash: 3. Reese Bullard, 1:02.29. 800m run: 6.
Sienna Smith, 2:32.47. 1600m run: 5.
Sienna Smith, 5:39.09. Triple Jump: 6.
Cassie Ellegood, 32-8.5; 12. Jordyn Harbaugh, 31-0. Pole vault: 12.
Kaylea McMullen, 7-6. Shot put: 8. Allie
Gerhart, 32-11.75.

Nachtical, Lady Panther 4x8 win elite golds at Pre-State meet

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Junior KJ Adams Jr. was honored with the Danny Manning Mr. Jayhawk Award at the Kansas men’s basketball annual team banquet Thursday evening at the Burge Union on the KU campus.

The banquet started with an annual traditional poem highlighting the season from emcee and Voice of the Jayhawks Brian Hanni, describing the many success stories posted by the 2023-24 Jayhawks. Then, KU Athletics Director Travis Goff addressed the crowd of more than 350 for the event.

Following a meal that concluded with a season-highlight video produced by KU’s award-winning Rock Chalk Video, Kansas head coach Bill Self then took the stage and recognized the players’ parents, the men’s basketball support and coaching staff, the donors and fans and then acknowledged the team and its many triumphs in 2023-24. Self concluded by presenting Adams with the Danny Manning Mr. Jayhawk Award.

“This is a positive night,” Self said of the Jayhawks who went 23-11, tied for fifth in the Big 12 with a 10-8 league record and advanced to its 51st NCAA Tournament. “We didn’t end the season the way we wanted because of some things that were probably uncontrollable. But it shouldn’t take away from the effort of these kids what they gave us and what they gave you (the fans) to give us the best chance to succeed. These kids never made excuses. They fought their butts off all year long and especially at the end, not only for themselves, but their teammates and for you guys.”

Adams announced his return to Kansas via social media at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season. Named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention, Adams ranked 20th in the nation in field goal percentage with 60.1%. The Austin, Texas, forward averaged 12.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game and played 33.4 minutes per game. He has 105 assists in 2023-24, which ranked third on the Kansas squad. The 2023 Big 12 Most Improved Player, Adams is on the All-Big 12 team for the second-straight year. Adams ranks third all-time on Kansas’ FG% list at 60.7% for his career. In Kansas’ NCAA First Round contest against Samford, Adams scored 20 points on a career-high 10 field goals made, while also dishing out six assists.

All five of the starters from the 2023-24 team were recognized throughout the evening’s presentations. The five Kansas starters earned postseason accolades from the Big 12 and nationally. In addition to Adams, senior Hunter Dickinson was a Consensus All-America Second Team selection and was named the Big 12 Newcomer of the year, while also earning All-Big 12 First Team. Graduate Kevin McCullar Jr. joined Dickinson as an All-Big 12 First Team selection and was named to most every national player of the year late watch list. Freshman Johnny Furphy was named to the Big 12 All-Freshman Team and was also an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. Redshirt senior Dajuan Harris Jr. was named to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team for the third-consecutive year and earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. Harris ranked third in the Big 12 in assists per game with 6.0 and helped Kansas lead the nation in assists per game at 19.0 in 2023-24, marking the third time KU has led the NCAA in assists (2001-02 – 20.7 and 2000-01 – 19.4).

In 2023-24, Kansas recorded 23 wins for the 31st time in the last 33 seasons, dating back to 1989-90. Dating back to the 1994-95 season, the Jayhawks have won 10 or more conference games in 29 of the last 30 years.

Kansas finished the season with the No. 21 in NET, going 7-10 vs. Quadrant 1 teams, 7-0 vs. Q2, 4-1 vs. Q3 and 4-0 vs. Q4. Additionally, the Jayhawks were No. 2 nationally in strength of schedule. Kansas has finished in the top three in strength of schedule each of the last three seasons, six of the last seven and nine of the last 11 years.

Kansas finished as No. 17 in the final Associated Press rankings, going 7-5 against Associated Press ranked opponents in 2023-24, including 4-2 versus top-10 teams. Finishing No. 17 in the AP poll, Kansas added to its all-time consecutive record of appearing in the final AP poll to 24 seasons, a streak that started in 2000-01.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712940101075.jpeg" alt="Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. – Junior KJ Adams Jr. was honored with the Danny Manning Mr. Jayhawk Award at the Kansas men’s basketball annual team banquet Thursday evening at the Burge Union on the KU campus.The banquet started with an annual traditional poem highlighting the season from emcee and Voice of the Jayhawks Brian Hanni, describing the many success stories posted by the 2023-24 Jayhawks. Then, KU Athletics Director Travis Goff addressed the crowd of more than 350 for the event.Following a meal that concluded with a season-highlight video produced by KU’s award-winning Rock Chalk Video, Kansas head coach Bill Self then took the stage and recognized the players’ parents, the men’s basketball support and coaching staff, the donors and fans and then acknowledged the team and its many triumphs in 2023-24. Self concluded by presenting Adams with the Danny Manning Mr. Jayhawk Award.“This is a positive night,” Self said of the Jayhawks who went 23-11, tied for fifth in the Big 12 with a 10-8 league record and advanced to its 51st NCAA Tournament. “We didn’t end the season the way we wanted because of some things that were probably uncontrollable. But it shouldn’t take away from the effort of these kids what they gave us and what they gave you (the fans) to give us the best chance to succeed. These kids never made excuses. They fought their butts off all year long and especially at the end, not only for themselves, but their teammates and for you guys.”Adams announced his return to Kansas via social media at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season. Named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention, Adams ranked 20th in the nation in field goal percentage with 60.1%. The Austin, Texas, forward averaged 12.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game and played 33.4 minutes per game. He has 105 assists in 2023-24, which ranked third on the Kansas squad. The 2023 Big 12 Most Improved Player, Adams is on the All-Big 12 team for the second-straight year. Adams ranks third all-time on Kansas’ FG% list at 60.7% for his career. In Kansas’ NCAA First Round contest against Samford, Adams scored 20 points on a career-high 10 field goals made, while also dishing out six assists.All five of the starters from the 2023-24 team were recognized throughout the evening’s presentations. The five Kansas starters earned postseason accolades from the Big 12 and nationally. In addition to Adams, senior Hunter Dickinson was a Consensus All-America Second Team selection and was named the Big 12 Newcomer of the year, while also earning All-Big 12 First Team. Graduate Kevin McCullar Jr. joined Dickinson as an All-Big 12 First Team selection and was named to most every national player of the year late watch list. Freshman Johnny Furphy was named to the Big 12 All-Freshman Team and was also an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. Redshirt senior Dajuan Harris Jr. was named to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team for the third-consecutive year and earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. Harris ranked third in the Big 12 in assists per game with 6.0 and helped Kansas lead the nation in assists per game at 19.0 in 2023-24, marking the third time KU has led the NCAA in assists (2001-02 – 20.7 and 2000-01 – 19.4).In 2023-24, Kansas recorded 23 wins for the 31st time in the last 33 seasons, dating back to 1989-90. Dating back to the 1994-95 season, the Jayhawks have won 10 or more conference games in 29 of the last 30 years.Kansas finished the season with the No. 21 in NET, going 7-10 vs. Quadrant 1 teams, 7-0 vs. Q2, 4-1 vs. Q3 and 4-0 vs. Q4. Additionally, the Jayhawks were No. 2 nationally in strength of schedule. Kansas has finished in the top three in strength of schedule each of the last three seasons, six of the last seven and nine of the last 11 years.Kansas finished as No. 17 in the final Associated Press rankings, going 7-5 against Associated Press ranked opponents in 2023-24, including 4-2 versus top-10 teams. Finishing No. 17 in the AP poll, Kansas added to its all-time consecutive record of appearing in the final AP poll to 24 seasons, a streak that started in 2000-01.

Adams Named Mr. Jayhawk at Annual Awards Banquet

- Sunflower Sports Solutions Conor Nichol has the weekly update on High School Baseball and Softball.

- Mike Courson runs down the top performance lists so far this year in High School Track and Field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693997740304.jpeg" alt="Friday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher" />
 <figcaption>Friday show lineup with hosts Steve Webster, Mike Courson, Aaron Clark, and Mike Hesher</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/byZdqbwywTU?si=jJJymqAn8SJ2DrBs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>- Sunflower Sports Solutions Conor Nichol has the weekly update on High School Baseball and Softball.- Mike Courson runs down the top performance lists so far this year in High School Track and Field.- Friday Sports Headlines- Sounds of the past 24 hours

Friday on Sports Day (Watch)

By TODD MOORE Barton Sports Info

Treneese Hamilton of the 8th ranked Barton Community College women's track and field team has been named the week four Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) Women's Field Athlete of the Week.

After winning the national indoor shot put title in early March on the way to being named the Field Athlete of the Year, Hamilton made her outdoor debut in the event this past weekend at the Crimson Tide Invitational hosted by the University of Alabama.

Marking a 13.98m (45-10.50) to place 7th against the top tiered NCAA Division I field, the sophomore's throw currently is tied for the NJCAA's best mark of the current outdoor season.

Hamilton and both the men and women's teams will be competing this weekend in Wichita at the KT Woodman Classic. Action at Cessna Stadium begins on Friday at 6:00 p.m. with Saturday's beginning at 11:00 a.m. for day two throwing events with a 1:00 p.m. start for running events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712922389830.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By TODD MOORE Barton Sports InfoTreneese Hamilton of the 8th ranked Barton Community College women's track and field team has been named the week four Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference (KJCCC) Women's Field Athlete of the Week.After winning the national indoor shot put title in early March on the way to being named the Field Athlete of the Year, Hamilton made her outdoor debut in the event this past weekend at the Crimson Tide Invitational hosted by the University of Alabama.Marking a 13.98m (45-10.50) to place 7th against the top tiered NCAA Division I field, the sophomore's throw currently is tied for the NJCAA's best mark of the current outdoor season.Hamilton and both the men and women's teams will be competing this weekend in Wichita at the KT Woodman Classic. Action at Cessna Stadium begins on Friday at 6:00 p.m. with Saturday's beginning at 11:00 a.m. for day two throwing events with a 1:00 p.m. start for running events.

Barton's Hamilton earns KJCCC Women's Field Athlete of the Week

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

Long before the Bronco chase gripped a national television audience and the “Trial of the Century” captivated the country, O.J. Simpson was making his mark on the football field.

The Juice was the best running back of his era during an 11-year NFL career mostly played with the Buffalo Bills. He won a national championship and a Heisman Trophy in college and set records in the NFL. But Simpson’s accomplishments on the field were overshadowed and his image was forever ruined by charges that he killed his former wife and her male friend in 1994. Though he was acquitted of murder, Simpson was later found liable for the deaths in a separate civil case.

Simpson’s tarnished legacy resulted in a muted reaction to news of his death Thursday. He wasn’t acknowledged publicly by the NFL, the Bills or the San Francisco 49ers, where he played his final two seasons.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame issued a statement attributed to its President Jim Porter that said: “O.J. Simpson was the first player to reach a rushing mark many thought could not be attained in a 14-game season when he topped 2,000 yards. His on-field contributions will be preserved in the Hall’s archives in Canton, Ohio."

Simpson’s name remains on the Bills’ Wall of Fame, which rings the inside of Highmark Stadium, known as Rich Stadium during his playing days. That could change in a few years when the Bills move into a new stadium set to open across the street in 2026. Fans previously petitioned the team to remove Simpson’s name from the wall.

Otherwise, there are very few reminders of Simpson’s time playing in Buffalo. No statues. Many of his teammates and friends have moved away or died.

“He and I had a bumpy start and then we had a great relationship throughout,” former Bills defensive back Booker Edgerson told the AP. “Because he was a celebrity. And in his ways, he just didn’t understand. He was a young guy. He didn’t understand the game of professional football and what all the guys went through. He just didn’t react to the veterans as I thought he should have. Like, disrespect and everything. But once we got to know each other and everything, and then eventually when we became roommates for that one year, from that point on, he and I had a very good relationship.”

After his success at USC, Simpson didn’t initially live up to the hype and expectations of a No. 1 overall draft pick. He averaged 642 yards and four touchdowns in his first three seasons with the Bills and some thought he would be a bust.

Then the arrival of coach Lou Saban in 1972 changed the trajectory of Simpson’s football career. Saban built Buffalo’s offense around Simpson’s skills. That led to his breakout.

The 6-foot-2, 212-pound Simpson ran more with grace than power, though he could push through defenders for that extra yard or two. He danced and juked, dodged and eluded tacklers, using his instincts to find open space that allowed him to use his speed to outrace the defense into the end zone.

Simpson rushed for 1,251 yards and six TDs in Saban’s first year in Buffalo. He followed up with one of the greatest seasons in league history, rushing for 2,003 yards and 12 scores in 1973 while earning the NFL Most Valuable Player award.

Simpson accomplished that remarkable total in 14 games and his record of 143.1 yards rushing per game still stands. Simpson topped 1,000 yards in each of his next three seasons and 1975 was his best all-around effort.

He rushed for 1,817 yards and 16 TDs and had 426 yards receiving and seven more scores that year. A knee injury ended his season early in 1977 and Simpson finished his career in San Francisco, where he grew up.

The five-time All-Pro was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.

By then, he was already a fixture on television as an actor, pitchman and football analyst. Simpson first appeared in an ad for Hertz in 1975, and legions of sports fans knew him as the former player who dashed through airports wearing three-piece suits and holding a briefcase while hurdling railings on his way to the rental counter to secure his car.

Simpson began acting during his time at USC, appeared in various roles on television shows while in the NFL and co-starred in several movies after retiring. His promising on-screen career and everything else was halted following the murder allegations.

Hall of Fame guard Joe DeLamielleure was a rookie with the Bills during Simpson’s record-breaking season and became an important member of an offensive line known as “The Electric Company” that paved the lane for Simpson to run free.

Simpson had matured as a teammate by the time DeLamielleure met him, aided by guidance he received from Edgerson and other veteran players who helped him find his way.

“He was like a star to us, even back then,” DeLamielleure told the AP. “He was like an icon even back then. ... But I’ll tell you what, he was never cocky. He worked hard in practice. ... He was just one of those guys who was bigger than all of us. But he hung with everybody. Very humble to football players and very respectful to the offensive line because he’s a guy who shined a light on the offensive linemen throughout the league. He was a special person, a special player. ... I watched Pete Maravich play. I also saw Muhammad Ali box. ... Holy cow. But I was privileged to play with him.”

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football WriterLong before the Bronco chase gripped a national television audience and the “Trial of the Century” captivated the country, O.J. Simpson was making his mark on the football field.The Juice was the best running back of his era during an 11-year NFL career mostly played with the Buffalo Bills. He won a national championship and a Heisman Trophy in college and set records in the NFL. But Simpson’s accomplishments on the field were overshadowed and his image was forever ruined by charges that he killed his former wife and her male friend in 1994. Though he was acquitted of murder, Simpson was later found liable for the deaths in a separate civil case.Simpson’s tarnished legacy resulted in a muted reaction to news of his death Thursday. He wasn’t acknowledged publicly by the NFL, the Bills or the San Francisco 49ers, where he played his final two seasons.The Pro Football Hall of Fame issued a statement attributed to its President Jim Porter that said: “O.J. Simpson was the first player to reach a rushing mark many thought could not be attained in a 14-game season when he topped 2,000 yards. His on-field contributions will be preserved in the Hall’s archives in Canton, Ohio."Simpson’s name remains on the Bills’ Wall of Fame, which rings the inside of Highmark Stadium, known as Rich Stadium during his playing days. That could change in a few years when the Bills move into a new stadium set to open across the street in 2026. Fans previously petitioned the team to remove Simpson’s name from the wall.Otherwise, there are very few reminders of Simpson’s time playing in Buffalo. No statues. Many of his teammates and friends have moved away or died.“He and I had a bumpy start and then we had a great relationship throughout,” former Bills defensive back Booker Edgerson told the AP. “Because he was a celebrity. And in his ways, he just didn’t understand. He was a young guy. He didn’t understand the game of professional football and what all the guys went through. He just didn’t react to the veterans as I thought he should have. Like, disrespect and everything. But once we got to know each other and everything, and then eventually when we became roommates for that one year, from that point on, he and I had a very good relationship.”After his success at USC, Simpson didn’t initially live up to the hype and expectations of a No. 1 overall draft pick. He averaged 642 yards and four touchdowns in his first three seasons with the Bills and some thought he would be a bust.Then the arrival of coach Lou Saban in 1972 changed the trajectory of Simpson’s football career. Saban built Buffalo’s offense around Simpson’s skills. That led to his breakout.The 6-foot-2, 212-pound Simpson ran more with grace than power, though he could push through defenders for that extra yard or two. He danced and juked, dodged and eluded tacklers, using his instincts to find open space that allowed him to use his speed to outrace the defense into the end zone.Simpson rushed for 1,251 yards and six TDs in Saban’s first year in Buffalo. He followed up with one of the greatest seasons in league history, rushing for 2,003 yards and 12 scores in 1973 while earning the NFL Most Valuable Player award.Simpson accomplished that remarkable total in 14 games and his record of 143.1 yards rushing per game still stands. Simpson topped 1,000 yards in each of his next three seasons and 1975 was his best all-around effort.He rushed for 1,817 yards and 16 TDs and had 426 yards receiving and seven more scores that year. A knee injury ended his season early in 1977 and Simpson finished his career in San Francisco, where he grew up.The five-time All-Pro was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.By then, he was already a fixture on television as an actor, pitchman and football analyst. Simpson first appeared in an ad for Hertz in 1975, and legions of sports fans knew him as the former player who dashed through airports wearing three-piece suits and holding a briefcase while hurdling railings on his way to the rental counter to secure his car.Simpson began acting during his time at USC, appeared in various roles on television shows while in the NFL and co-starred in several movies after retiring. His promising on-screen career and everything else was halted following the murder allegations.Hall of Fame guard Joe DeLamielleure was a rookie with the Bills during Simpson’s record-breaking season and became an important member of an offensive line known as “The Electric Company” that paved the lane for Simpson to run free.Simpson had matured as a teammate by the time DeLamielleure met him, aided by guidance he received from Edgerson and other veteran players who helped him find his way.“He was like a star to us, even back then,” DeLamielleure told the AP. “He was like an icon even back then. ... But I’ll tell you what, he was never cocky. He worked hard in practice. ... He was just one of those guys who was bigger than all of us. But he hung with everybody. Very humble to football players and very respectful to the offensive line because he’s a guy who shined a light on the offensive linemen throughout the league. He was a special person, a special player. ... I watched Pete Maravich play. I also saw Muhammad Ali box. ... Holy cow. But I was privileged to play with him.”

Before murder charges tarnished his legacy, O.J. Simpson was one of the NFL's greatest running backs

Following Tuesday's sweep of Dodge City Tuesday at the Sports Complex, the Lady Panther softball team headed west Thursday to wrap up the three-game set against the Lady Demons. After outscoring Dodge City 23-3 in the first two games, Great Bend won Thursday's game 4-1 to move to 11-1 on the season.

Senior Paige Thexton entered the game with a .574 on-base percentage that included a team-high 14 walks. She led off the game with her 15 base on balls of the season, then scored on a bunt from freshman Camdyn Post and an error in the first inning.

Dodge City evened the score in the bottom of the second and the score remained 1-1 into the fifth inning. Thexton drew another walk, then Kya Behr reached on a single. That set up a 3-run homer from DeShawnna Bryant to provide some comfort.

Before Thursday, sophomore Braelyn Turner and freshman Chayla Prendergast had accounted for 64 of the team's 68 innings pitched this season. Coach Carrie Minton mixed things up some in the circle with Alyssa McCauley going the first two innings. The sophomore struck out two and allowed one earned run on three hits. Thexton threw 3.1 innings, striking out four and allowing two hits. Turner struck out a batter in the sixth for her lone recorded out. Prendergast accounted for the final four outs with two strikeouts and a hit allowed.&nbsp;

The Lady Panthers needed just four hits to go with five walks in the win. Bryant entered the game batting .526 and had two of the hits, including the 3-run homer. Behr saw her team-best .610 batting average drop with a 1-for-4 showing. Post, batting .500 on the season, went 1-for-3. Kamryn Koelsch, with a .600 on-base percentage, drew two more walks and went hitless in her one official at bat.

A busy week continues in Dodge City today as the Lady Panthers take on Goddard-Eisenhower and Maize South. Great Bend will play Derby and Wichita Northwest in Dodge City on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673886547614.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend Post SportsFollowing Tuesday's sweep of Dodge City Tuesday at the Sports Complex, the Lady Panther softball team headed west Thursday to wrap up the three-game set against the Lady Demons. After outscoring Dodge City 23-3 in the first two games, Great Bend won Thursday's game 4-1 to move to 11-1 on the season.Senior Paige Thexton entered the game with a .574 on-base percentage that included a team-high 14 walks. She led off the game with her 15 base on balls of the season, then scored on a bunt from freshman Camdyn Post and an error in the first inning.Dodge City evened the score in the bottom of the second and the score remained 1-1 into the fifth inning. Thexton drew another walk, then Kya Behr reached on a single. That set up a 3-run homer from DeShawnna Bryant to provide some comfort.Before Thursday, sophomore Braelyn Turner and freshman Chayla Prendergast had accounted for 64 of the team's 68 innings pitched this season. Coach Carrie Minton mixed things up some in the circle with Alyssa McCauley going the first two innings. The sophomore struck out two and allowed one earned run on three hits. Thexton threw 3.1 innings, striking out four and allowing two hits. Turner struck out a batter in the sixth for her lone recorded out. Prendergast accounted for the final four outs with two strikeouts and a hit allowed.&nbsp;The Lady Panthers needed just four hits to go with five walks in the win. Bryant entered the game batting .526 and had two of the hits, including the 3-run homer. Behr saw her team-best .610 batting average drop with a 1-for-4 showing. Post, batting .500 on the season, went 1-for-3. Kamryn Koelsch, with a .600 on-base percentage, drew two more walks and went hitless in her one official at bat.A busy week continues in Dodge City today as the Lady Panthers take on Goddard-Eisenhower and Maize South. Great Bend will play Derby and Wichita Northwest in Dodge City on Saturday.

Lady Panther softball picks up third win against Dodge City

AMERICAN LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBNew York	10	3	.769	—Baltimore	8	4	.667	1½Boston	7	6	.538	3Tampa Bay	7	6	.538	3Toronto	6	7	.462	4Central DivisionCleveland	9	3	.750	—Kansas
City	9	4	.692	½Detroit	7	4	.636	1½Minnesota	4	6	.400	4Chicago	2	10	.167	7West DivisionTexas	7	6	.538	—Los
Angeles	6	6	.500	½Oakland	5	8	.385	2Seattle	5	8	.385	2Houston	4	10	.286	3½NATIONAL LEAGUEEast DivisionW	L	Pct	GBAtlanta	7	4	.636	—Philadelphia	7	6	.538	1New York	5	7	.417	2½Washington	5	7	.417	2½Miami	2	11	.154	6Central DivisionMilwaukee	8	3	.727	—Pittsburgh	9	4	.692	—Chicago	7	5	.583	1½Cincinnati	6	6	.500	2½St.
Louis	6	7	.462	3West DivisionLos
Angeles	10	5	.667	—San Diego	7	8	.467	3Arizona	6	7	.462	3San
Francisco	5	8	.385	4

MLB Standings

GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice surrendered to police Thursday on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash involving a half-dozen vehicles on a Dallas highway last month.

A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney confirmed to The Associated Press that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West.

Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto, and West said he was released on bond Thursday night.

In an emailed statement, West emphasized what he called Rice's “continued cooperation with law enforcement.”

“Mr. Rice acknowledges his actions and feels deeply for those injured as a result of this accident,” the lawyer said.

Rice said last week on Instagram that he was taking “full responsibility” for his part in the wreck.

On Wednesday, Dallas police said arrest warrants had been issued for Rice, 23, for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.

West said previously that Rice was driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle when the crash happened March 30.

Theodore Knox, 21, was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said, and arrest warrants were issued for Knox on the same range of counts as for Rice. Dallas police said Thursday night that Knox was not currently in custody.

Southern Methodist University said earlier in the day that, after learning of the arrest warrant, Knox had been suspended from its football team. Knox’s attorney, Deandra Grant, said her client was cooperating with law enforcement.

Police have alleged that Rice and Knox were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control, and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing a chain collision.

Rice and Knox allegedly left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information, according to police. Four people involved in the crash had minor injuries, police said.

Rice grew up in the Fort Worth suburb of North Richland Hills and played college football at nearby Southern Methodist, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put him on the radar of NFL teams.

GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice surrendered to police Thursday on charges including aggravated assault after he and another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash involving a half-dozen vehicles on a Dallas highway last month.A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney confirmed to The Associated Press that Rice turned himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West.Rice was booked into the Regional Jail in DeSoto, and West said he was released on bond Thursday night.In an emailed statement, West emphasized what he called Rice's “continued cooperation with law enforcement.”“Mr. Rice acknowledges his actions and feels deeply for those injured as a result of this accident,” the lawyer said.Rice said last week on Instagram that he was taking “full responsibility” for his part in the wreck.On Wednesday, Dallas police said arrest warrants had been issued for Rice, 23, for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.West said previously that Rice was driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle when the crash happened March 30.Theodore Knox, 21, was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said, and arrest warrants were issued for Knox on the same range of counts as for Rice. Dallas police said Thursday night that Knox was not currently in custody.Southern Methodist University said earlier in the day that, after learning of the arrest warrant, Knox had been suspended from its football team. Knox’s attorney, Deandra Grant, said her client was cooperating with law enforcement.Police have alleged that Rice and Knox were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control, and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing a chain collision.Rice and Knox allegedly left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information, according to police. Four people involved in the crash had minor injuries, police said.Rice grew up in the Fort Worth suburb of North Richland Hills and played college football at nearby Southern Methodist, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put him on the radar of NFL teams.

Chiefs' Rashee Rice surrenders to police on assault charge

By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports Info

The recent offensive woes lingered in Jayhawk West play for the Barton Community College baseball team Thursday afternoon dropping a pair to Cloud County Community College at Lee Doyen Field.

Managing two-runs over 16-innings, the Cougar bats were held at bay in the opener with just five hits falling 7-0. Cesar Gomez and Jaron Cotton produced the lone RBIs before ultimately dropping the backend of the twin bill 7-2.

Swept in a road doubleheader for the third time this season and suffering their fifth straight loss in Concordia, Barton drops to 28-13 overall and 13-9 in conference while the T-Birds take a 2-0 series lead and improve to 28-12 overall and remain in second play in league play at 14-4.

The Cougars will look to defend home turf as the series shifts to Lawson-Biggs Field Saturday afternoon for a 1:00 p.m. doubleheader.

Wyatt Yetter's 2 for 3 performance led Barton's five hits with Robby Bolin, Owen Clyne and Grant Nottlemann adding the other trio of hits.

Trailing 1-0 in the top of the second, Yetter's double extended a two-out rally advancing Nottlemann to third after reaching on error. All momentum quickly went wayside the ensuing batter on Hank Orr's infield contact ruled out despite appearing to beat out the bang-bang play at first preventing the tying run to cross.

Benefitting behind all momentum, the T-Birds broke things open with a pair of three run innings in the bottom of the second and sixth.

Reece Hemmerling (6-2) was the losing pitcher, going 5.1-innings. The sophomore ace allowed eight hits, seven runs, four earned and walked one. Jordan Bedell worked out of the final 0.2-innings with a strikeout. 

Trailing 2-0 after three-innings, Gomez cut the deficit in half and as close as the Cougars would get, furnishing the Cougars first run of the afternoon on a groundout scoring Cotton's leadoff double after advancing on Yetter's fly-out.

Getting the run back in the bottom of the fifth, a four run seventh highlighted behind back-to-back home runs widened the margin to 7-1.

Producing one run over the opening 14-innings, Cotton added Barton's other run in the eighth with a sacrifice-fly driving home Trent Reitmayer's leadoff walk followed by Bolin's third single of the game to open the frame.

Aidan Sowers (4-2) suffered the loss working six-plus innings. The sophomore south paw allowed five runs on 10 hits, walked one and fanned four T-Birds. Kyler Horsman worked the final two-innings scattering three hits, two runs and two strikeouts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712918174623.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRANDON SMITH Barton Sports InfoThe recent offensive woes lingered in Jayhawk West play for the Barton Community College baseball team Thursday afternoon dropping a pair to Cloud County Community College at Lee Doyen Field.Managing two-runs over 16-innings, the Cougar bats were held at bay in the opener with just five hits falling 7-0. Cesar Gomez and Jaron Cotton produced the lone RBIs before ultimately dropping the backend of the twin bill 7-2.Swept in a road doubleheader for the third time this season and suffering their fifth straight loss in Concordia, Barton drops to 28-13 overall and 13-9 in conference while the T-Birds take a 2-0 series lead and improve to 28-12 overall and remain in second play in league play at 14-4.The Cougars will look to defend home turf as the series shifts to Lawson-Biggs Field Saturday afternoon for a 1:00 p.m. doubleheader.Game 1 Recap (L 7-0)Wyatt Yetter's 2 for 3 performance led Barton's five hits with Robby Bolin, Owen Clyne and Grant Nottlemann adding the other trio of hits.Trailing 1-0 in the top of the second, Yetter's double extended a two-out rally advancing Nottlemann to third after reaching on error. All momentum quickly went wayside the ensuing batter on Hank Orr's infield contact ruled out despite appearing to beat out the bang-bang play at first preventing the tying run to cross.Benefitting behind all momentum, the T-Birds broke things open with a pair of three run innings in the bottom of the second and sixth.Reece Hemmerling (6-2) was the losing pitcher, going 5.1-innings. The sophomore ace allowed eight hits, seven runs, four earned and walked one. Jordan Bedell worked out of the final 0.2-innings with a strikeout. Game 2 Recap (L 7-2)Trailing 2-0 after three-innings, Gomez cut the deficit in half and as close as the Cougars would get, furnishing the Cougars first run of the afternoon on a groundout scoring Cotton's leadoff double after advancing on Yetter's fly-out.Getting the run back in the bottom of the fifth, a four run seventh highlighted behind back-to-back home runs widened the margin to 7-1.Producing one run over the opening 14-innings, Cotton added Barton's other run in the eighth with a sacrifice-fly driving home Trent Reitmayer's leadoff walk followed by Bolin's third single of the game to open the frame.Aidan Sowers (4-2) suffered the loss working six-plus innings. The sophomore south paw allowed five runs on 10 hits, walked one and fanned four T-Birds. Kyler Horsman worked the final two-innings scattering three hits, two runs and two strikeouts.

Cougar Baseball drops pair at Cloud County

KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and
five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to
defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 to complete a three-game sweep and
extend their winning streak to seven games. The Royals completed a
perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It’s
just the third time in franchise history they’ve played at least
seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games
in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World
Series. The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning,
tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Bryson DeChambeau was the mad scientist. Then he was the incredible
bulk. This next iteration might be really daunting. DeChambeau says
this is his golf phase, and it was impressive in the wind-blown
opening round of the Masters. He opened with a 65 for his best start
in a major and leads by one shot over world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.
The round couldn't be completed because of a two-and-a-half hour
weather delay. The greens were soft, but the wind was raging. Gusts
were close to 40 mph. Tiger Woods was holding steady at 1 under
through 13 holes.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Tiger Woods is off to a rousing start in his pursuit of more Masters
history. And maybe an improbable run at a sixth green jacket. Woods
wasn't able to complete the rain-delayed opening round at Augusta
National, getting in 13 holes before sundown. But he was 1-under and
looking fitter than he has in years, drawing huge cheers from a
massive gallery that hung on his every swing. It was an extremely
encouraging start for the five-time champion, who is currently tied
with Gary Player and Fred Couples with 23 consecutive times making
the cut. Of course, Woods has his sights on an even bigger goal —
pulling even with Jack Nicklaus for the most Masters titles.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Rory McIlroy caught a break when his tee shot hit a tree on the ninth
hole at Augusta National and kicked out into the middle of fairway,
giving him a workable second shot. McIlroy saved par and used that
momentum to shoot 71, his first sub-par opening round at the Masters
since 2018. That leaves the No. 2 player in the world six shots
behind leader Bryson DeChambeau in his quest to win his first green
jacket. McIlroy is hoping to join Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben
Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as the only players to complete
the modern Grand Slam by winning all four majors.

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP)
— BYU basketball coach Mark Pope is negotiating with Kentucky to
succeed John Calipari, according to multiple reports. Pope was a
member of Kentucky's 1996 NCAA championship team. CBS and ESPN both
reported Thursday night that a deal between Pope and Kentucky was
imminent. Earlier Thursday, Baylor’s Scott Drew announced on social
media that he was staying with the school, eliminating one potential
candidate for the Wildcats job. Calipari stepped down on Tuesday
after 15 years. The Hall of Famer was hired the next day as Arkansas'
coach.

GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas
(AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has surrendered
to police on charges including aggravated assault after he and
another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash on a
Dallas highway last month. A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney
confirmed to The Associated Press in the evening that Rice turned
himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being
represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West. Rice was booked into the
Regional Jail in DeSoto and released on bond. Police said Wednesday
that arrest warrants had been issued for the 23-year-old Rice for one
count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious
bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.

DALLAS (AP) — SMU
football player Teddy Knox has been suspended after being identified
as the second driver along with Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee
Rice in a high-speed, chain-reaction crash in Dallas. The school says
it was made aware of an arrest warrant for Knox issued by Dallas
police. The school is declining to offer further details on the
suspension, citing student privacy laws. The 21-year-old Knox and
Rice are facing multiple counts in connection with the crash April 6.

LOS ANGELES (AP) —
Federal authorities have charged the former longtime interpreter for
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani with federal bank fraud.
Prosecutors allege that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole more than
$16 million from the Japanese sensation to cover gambling bets and
debts. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced the charges Thursday at
a press conference in Los Angeles. Mizuhara was abruptly fired by the
team after the scandal surfaced last month and Major League Baseball
opened a separate investigation. Prosecutors say Ohtani was the
victim in the case. Mizuhara's attorney declined to comment Thursday.

LAS VEGAS (AP) —
O.J. Simpson has died. The decorated football star who was acquitted
of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but wound up in
prison years later in an unrelated case died Wednesday. He was 76.
His family made an announcement Thursday in a statement on Simpson's
X account. Simpson said last year that he was battling prostate
cancer. Simpson’s gridiron legacy was forever overshadowed by the
1994 knife slayings of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. A
criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder, but a separate
civil trial jury found him liable. Simpson's nine-year prison stint
in Nevada was for the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia
dealers.

Minnesota	at	Detroit	5:40
p.m.	(Postponed)

Milwaukee	at	Cincinnati	12:40
p.m.	(Postponed)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712497619824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.
(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and
five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to
defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 to complete a three-game sweep and
extend their winning streak to seven games. The Royals completed a
perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It’s
just the third time in franchise history they’ve played at least
seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games
in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World
Series. The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning,
tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning.AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Bryson DeChambeau was the mad scientist. Then he was the incredible
bulk. This next iteration might be really daunting. DeChambeau says
this is his golf phase, and it was impressive in the wind-blown
opening round of the Masters. He opened with a 65 for his best start
in a major and leads by one shot over world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.
The round couldn't be completed because of a two-and-a-half hour
weather delay. The greens were soft, but the wind was raging. Gusts
were close to 40 mph. Tiger Woods was holding steady at 1 under
through 13 holes.AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Tiger Woods is off to a rousing start in his pursuit of more Masters
history. And maybe an improbable run at a sixth green jacket. Woods
wasn't able to complete the rain-delayed opening round at Augusta
National, getting in 13 holes before sundown. But he was 1-under and
looking fitter than he has in years, drawing huge cheers from a
massive gallery that hung on his every swing. It was an extremely
encouraging start for the five-time champion, who is currently tied
with Gary Player and Fred Couples with 23 consecutive times making
the cut. Of course, Woods has his sights on an even bigger goal —
pulling even with Jack Nicklaus for the most Masters titles.AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) —
Rory McIlroy caught a break when his tee shot hit a tree on the ninth
hole at Augusta National and kicked out into the middle of fairway,
giving him a workable second shot. McIlroy saved par and used that
momentum to shoot 71, his first sub-par opening round at the Masters
since 2018. That leaves the No. 2 player in the world six shots
behind leader Bryson DeChambeau in his quest to win his first green
jacket. McIlroy is hoping to join Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben
Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as the only players to complete
the modern Grand Slam by winning all four majors.LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP)
— BYU basketball coach Mark Pope is negotiating with Kentucky to
succeed John Calipari, according to multiple reports. Pope was a
member of Kentucky's 1996 NCAA championship team. CBS and ESPN both
reported Thursday night that a deal between Pope and Kentucky was
imminent. Earlier Thursday, Baylor’s Scott Drew announced on social
media that he was staying with the school, eliminating one potential
candidate for the Wildcats job. Calipari stepped down on Tuesday
after 15 years. The Hall of Famer was hired the next day as Arkansas'
coach.GLENN HEIGHTS, Texas
(AP) — Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice has surrendered
to police on charges including aggravated assault after he and
another driver of a speeding sports car allegedly caused a crash on a
Dallas highway last month. A spokeswoman for Rice’s attorney
confirmed to The Associated Press in the evening that Rice turned
himself in at the Glenn Heights Police Department. Rice is being
represented by Texas state Sen. Royce West. Rice was booked into the
Regional Jail in DeSoto and released on bond. Police said Wednesday
that arrest warrants had been issued for the 23-year-old Rice for one
count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious
bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.DALLAS (AP) — SMU
football player Teddy Knox has been suspended after being identified
as the second driver along with Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee
Rice in a high-speed, chain-reaction crash in Dallas. The school says
it was made aware of an arrest warrant for Knox issued by Dallas
police. The school is declining to offer further details on the
suspension, citing student privacy laws. The 21-year-old Knox and
Rice are facing multiple counts in connection with the crash April 6.LOS ANGELES (AP) —
Federal authorities have charged the former longtime interpreter for
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani with federal bank fraud.
Prosecutors allege that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole more than
$16 million from the Japanese sensation to cover gambling bets and
debts. U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada announced the charges Thursday at
a press conference in Los Angeles. Mizuhara was abruptly fired by the
team after the scandal surfaced last month and Major League Baseball
opened a separate investigation. Prosecutors say Ohtani was the
victim in the case. Mizuhara's attorney declined to comment Thursday.LAS VEGAS (AP) —
O.J. Simpson has died. The decorated football star who was acquitted
of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but wound up in
prison years later in an unrelated case died Wednesday. He was 76.
His family made an announcement Thursday in a statement on Simpson's
X account. Simpson said last year that he was battling prostate
cancer. Simpson’s gridiron legacy was forever overshadowed by the
1994 knife slayings of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. A
criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder, but a separate
civil trial jury found him liable. Simpson's nine-year prison stint
in Nevada was for the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia
dealers.THURSDAY SCORESMAJOR LEAGUE
BASEBALLAMERICAN LEAGUEMinnesota	at	Detroit	5:40
p.m.	(Postponed)Final	Kansas
City	13	Houston	3	Final	Oakland	1	Texas	0	Final	Baltimore	9	Boston	4	NATIONAL LEAGUEMilwaukee	at	Cincinnati	12:40
p.m.	(Postponed)Final	N.Y.
Mets	16	Atlanta	4	Final	Philadelphia	5	Pittsburgh	1	NATIONAL
BASKETBALL ASSOCIATIONFinal	Chicago	127	Detroit	105	Final	New
York	118	Boston	109	Final	Utah	124	Houston	121	Final	Golden
State	100	Portland	92	Final	New
Orleans	135	Sacramento	123	NATIONAL HOCKEY
LEAGUEFinal	Florida	4	Columbus	0	Final	Buffalo	4	Washington	2	Final	Philadelphia	4	N-Y
Rangers	1	Final	New
Jersey	6	Toronto	5	Final
OT	Pittsburgh	6	Detroit	5	Final
SO	Ottawa	3	Tampa Bay	2	Final OT	N-Y
Islanders	3	Montreal	2	Final	Winnipeg	3	Dallas	0	Final	San
Jose	3	Seattle	1

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 Thursday to complete a three-game sweep and extend their winning streak to seven games.

Vinnie Pasquantino, who came into Wednesday's game hitting .108 with no RBIs, was 3-for-5 with three RBIs and now is hitting .222 with eight RBIs.

“To go from zero to eight in two days is pretty good,” Pasquantino said. “Hopefully we keep it up. If I could stay at this pace, we’d be in a really good spot.

"It feels good to be a part of the winning.”

The Royals completed a perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It's just the third time in franchise history they've played at least seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World Series.

“It’s a great feeling,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “I’m really happy for those guys. They’ve put in a ton of work. And to get off to that kind of start and sustain it for a full week is really challenging and really rewarding.”

Brady Singer (2-0) allowed one run and five hits in five innings.

Hunter Brown (0-2) got only two outs, but allowed nine runs and 11 hits.

“For the most part, I was generally over the middle of the dish,” Brown said. “I’m definitely not happy about it. I gotta look into it deeper. I've got to sit down with the staff and see what I can do.”

The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning, tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning (also set in 1986 and 2006). It was the second straight game they've batted around in an inning, sending 11 men to the plate in a seven-run inning Wednesday night.

“As a team we're just coming into the clubhouse each and every day having that feeling of, ‘We’re gonna win,’" Witt said.

The feeling was more demure in the other clubhouse.

“We’ve been tested early, and this team has been tested before,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “This is going to make us better. It’s hard to swallow those losses, but (I have) faith in that group in there. We’ll figure it out. When things are just not going your way, that’s the stuff that happens.”

Maikel Garcia (two singles), Witt (a single and a homer) and Pasquantino (two singles) each had two hits and two RBIs in the first inning. Everyone in the starting lineup had at least one hit in the inning except Kyle Isbel.

The Astros had baserunners in nearly every inning, but got only a solo home run in the fourth from Yainer Diaz and a pair of runs in the sixth, snapping a 19 1/3-inning scoreless streak by the Royals bullpen.

Astros: RHP Justin Verlander is scheduled for another rehab start this weekend prior to his potential return to the rotation. He's been on the injured list with a right shoulder issue. ... Manager Joe Espada said LHP Framber Valdez averted the worst-case scenario with elbow soreness that put him on the IL on Monday. “The soreness is pretty much all gone,” Espada said. “Now it’s time to let him play catch in the next few days and get him built up.”

Astros: return to Houston for a six-game homestand against Texas and Atlanta. RHP J.P. Franco (0-1, 4.78 ERA) will take the mound Friday against RHP Dane Dunning (1-1, 4.15 ERA) for Texas.

Royals: go on a six-game road trip to New York and Chicago. RHP Michael Wacha (1-0, 2.25 ERA) will start Friday against the Mets' RHP Luis Severino (0-1, 3.60 ERA).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had four hits, including two home runs, and five RBIs and the Kansas City Royals used a nine-run first inning to defeat the Houston Astros 13-3 Thursday to complete a three-game sweep and extend their winning streak to seven games.Vinnie Pasquantino, who came into Wednesday's game hitting .108 with no RBIs, was 3-for-5 with three RBIs and now is hitting .222 with eight RBIs.“To go from zero to eight in two days is pretty good,” Pasquantino said. “Hopefully we keep it up. If I could stay at this pace, we’d be in a really good spot."It feels good to be a part of the winning.”The Royals completed a perfect seven-game homestand against the White Sox and Astros. It's just the third time in franchise history they've played at least seven games on a homestand without a loss. The other two: seven games in 1988 and eight games in 1985, the year they won their first World Series.“It’s a great feeling,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “I’m really happy for those guys. They’ve put in a ton of work. And to get off to that kind of start and sustain it for a full week is really challenging and really rewarding.”Brady Singer (2-0) allowed one run and five hits in five innings.Hunter Brown (0-2) got only two outs, but allowed nine runs and 11 hits.“For the most part, I was generally over the middle of the dish,” Brown said. “I’m definitely not happy about it. I gotta look into it deeper. I've got to sit down with the staff and see what I can do.”The Royals sent 15 men to the plate in the first inning, tying a club record with 11 hits in the inning (also set in 1986 and 2006). It was the second straight game they've batted around in an inning, sending 11 men to the plate in a seven-run inning Wednesday night.“As a team we're just coming into the clubhouse each and every day having that feeling of, ‘We’re gonna win,’" Witt said.The feeling was more demure in the other clubhouse.“We’ve been tested early, and this team has been tested before,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “This is going to make us better. It’s hard to swallow those losses, but (I have) faith in that group in there. We’ll figure it out. When things are just not going your way, that’s the stuff that happens.”Maikel Garcia (two singles), Witt (a single and a homer) and Pasquantino (two singles) each had two hits and two RBIs in the first inning. Everyone in the starting lineup had at least one hit in the inning except Kyle Isbel.The Astros had baserunners in nearly every inning, but got only a solo home run in the fourth from Yainer Diaz and a pair of runs in the sixth, snapping a 19 1/3-inning scoreless streak by the Royals bullpen.TRAINING ROOMAstros: RHP Justin Verlander is scheduled for another rehab start this weekend prior to his potential return to the rotation. He's been on the injured list with a right shoulder issue. ... Manager Joe Espada said LHP Framber Valdez averted the worst-case scenario with elbow soreness that put him on the IL on Monday. “The soreness is pretty much all gone,” Espada said. “Now it’s time to let him play catch in the next few days and get him built up.”UP NEXTAstros: return to Houston for a six-game homestand against Texas and Atlanta. RHP J.P. Franco (0-1, 4.78 ERA) will take the mound Friday against RHP Dane Dunning (1-1, 4.15 ERA) for Texas.Royals: go on a six-game road trip to New York and Chicago. RHP Michael Wacha (1-0, 2.25 ERA) will start Friday against the Mets' RHP Luis Severino (0-1, 3.60 ERA).