By GABRIEL LOPEZ Kansas City Monarchs

GARY, Ind.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (6-4) won their first road game of the season against the Gary SouthShore RailCats (3-7) Monday night, 7-0. 

The Monarchs pitching staff was lights out as they collected eighteen strikeouts and allowed one hit through nine innings of play.&nbsp;

In the second inning, Jan Hernandez laced a two-out single to left field but was able to advance to second after an error made by left fielder M.J. Rookard. Casey Gillaspie stepped up to the plate and singled to right field to score Hernandez from second base to give the Monarchs a 1-0 lead.

Nick Belzer had a dominant performance over the RailCats. He retired eight straight hitters from the second inning on until he nicked Jackson Smith with a pitch in the bottom of the fifth. He managed to pitch around this, striking out three hitters to preserve the Monarchs 1-0 lead entering the sixth. Belzer finished his night with an impressive line of eight strikeouts, one hit, and zero runs through five innings of work.&nbsp;

The Monarchs had a productive sixth inning, scoring five runs with RBI’s from David Thompson, Pete Kozma, and Willie Abreu. The team finished their half with a commanding 6-0 lead over the RailCats.&nbsp;

The RailCats struggled offensively, collecting a mere one hit on the night. The team couldn’t get any offense going, leaving seven runners on base in nine innings.&nbsp;

The Monarchs loaded the bases in the seventh. They were able to tack on one more run as Pete Kozma walked, which brought in Matt Adams to give the Monarchs a 7-0 lead.&nbsp;

Jacob Lindgren picked up where Belzer left off. After hitting Michael Woodworth in the sixth inning, he struck out five straight hitters and allowed no runs or hits through two innings.&nbsp;

In the ninth inning, Jameson McGrane struck out three batters to shut the door on the RailCats.&nbsp;

The Monarchs will face the RailCats in game two of the four-game series Tuesday at 11 a.m. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 10:35 a.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

By GABRIEL LOPEZ Kansas City MonarchsGARY, Ind.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (6-4) won their first road game of the season against the Gary SouthShore RailCats (3-7) Monday night, 7-0. The Monarchs pitching staff was lights out as they collected eighteen strikeouts and allowed one hit through nine innings of play.&nbsp;In the second inning, Jan Hernandez laced a two-out single to left field but was able to advance to second after an error made by left fielder M.J. Rookard. Casey Gillaspie stepped up to the plate and singled to right field to score Hernandez from second base to give the Monarchs a 1-0 lead.Nick Belzer had a dominant performance over the RailCats. He retired eight straight hitters from the second inning on until he nicked Jackson Smith with a pitch in the bottom of the fifth. He managed to pitch around this, striking out three hitters to preserve the Monarchs 1-0 lead entering the sixth. Belzer finished his night with an impressive line of eight strikeouts, one hit, and zero runs through five innings of work.&nbsp;The Monarchs had a productive sixth inning, scoring five runs with RBI’s from David Thompson, Pete Kozma, and Willie Abreu. The team finished their half with a commanding 6-0 lead over the RailCats.&nbsp;The RailCats struggled offensively, collecting a mere one hit on the night. The team couldn’t get any offense going, leaving seven runners on base in nine innings.&nbsp;The Monarchs loaded the bases in the seventh. They were able to tack on one more run as Pete Kozma walked, which brought in Matt Adams to give the Monarchs a 7-0 lead.&nbsp;Jacob Lindgren picked up where Belzer left off. After hitting Michael Woodworth in the sixth inning, he struck out five straight hitters and allowed no runs or hits through two innings.&nbsp;In the ninth inning, Jameson McGrane struck out three batters to shut the door on the RailCats.&nbsp;The Monarchs will face the RailCats in game two of the four-game series Tuesday at 11 a.m. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 10:35 a.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

Pitching dominates in Monarchs' commanding win

KANSAS CITY, Kan. -&nbsp;The American Association has named Kansas City Monarchs&nbsp;LHP Matt Hall&nbsp;pitcher of the week.&nbsp;

On Thursday night&nbsp;at Legends Field, the Lee’s Summit native had an exceptional start against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks. He surrendered three hits, collected six strikeouts, and allowed zero runs through six innings of work. Hall retired the last five batters he faced, and his strong start helped propel his team to a 6-1 victory over the RedHawks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On May 13, Hall had a strong outing against the Sioux City Explorers as he finished his night by allowing three hits and one run through five innings. In his start, he struck out five batters and retired the first eleven hitters before allowing a single in the fourth inning.&nbsp;

Hall originally joined the Monarchs last August during the final month of the season helping propel the club to the 2021 American Association Championship. Hall got the start in game two of the championship series, picking up the win and defeating the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks 8-4. During the 2021 playoffs, he was a key component to the Monarchs pitching staff. Hall had a 2-0 record and accumulated eleven strikeouts in twelve innings. He had a pivotal impact on the historic championship run and helped the Monarchs claim the franchise's third title.

Hailing from Lee’s Summit, Hall attended Lee’s Summit West High School and played collegiately at Missouri State University where he was a sixth-round draft pick in the 2015 draft by the Detroit Tigers. Hall had his contract purchased on Sept. 11, 2018 and made his Major League debut on Sept. 15, 2018. He was traded after the 2018 season to Boston and appeared in four games for the Red Sox.

Hall is the first Monarchs to be named Pitcher of the Week since the rebrand of the franchise and the first weekly honor for the club since IF Morgan McCullough was named the American&nbsp;Association Player of the Week during the final month of the season last&nbsp;August 1st.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653360413231.jpeg" alt="Matt Hall. Photo by John Ellis courtesy Kansas City Monarchs" />
 <figcaption>Matt Hall. Photo by John Ellis courtesy Kansas City Monarchs</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City MonarchsKANSAS CITY, Kan. -&nbsp;The American Association has named Kansas City Monarchs&nbsp;LHP Matt Hall&nbsp;pitcher of the week.&nbsp;On Thursday night&nbsp;at Legends Field, the Lee’s Summit native had an exceptional start against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks. He surrendered three hits, collected six strikeouts, and allowed zero runs through six innings of work. Hall retired the last five batters he faced, and his strong start helped propel his team to a 6-1 victory over the RedHawks.&nbsp;&nbsp;On May 13, Hall had a strong outing against the Sioux City Explorers as he finished his night by allowing three hits and one run through five innings. In his start, he struck out five batters and retired the first eleven hitters before allowing a single in the fourth inning.&nbsp;Hall originally joined the Monarchs last August during the final month of the season helping propel the club to the 2021 American Association Championship. Hall got the start in game two of the championship series, picking up the win and defeating the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks 8-4. During the 2021 playoffs, he was a key component to the Monarchs pitching staff. Hall had a 2-0 record and accumulated eleven strikeouts in twelve innings. He had a pivotal impact on the historic championship run and helped the Monarchs claim the franchise's third title.Hailing from Lee’s Summit, Hall attended Lee’s Summit West High School and played collegiately at Missouri State University where he was a sixth-round draft pick in the 2015 draft by the Detroit Tigers. Hall had his contract purchased on Sept. 11, 2018 and made his Major League debut on Sept. 15, 2018. He was traded after the 2018 season to Boston and appeared in four games for the Red Sox.Hall is the first Monarchs to be named Pitcher of the Week since the rebrand of the franchise and the first weekly honor for the club since IF Morgan McCullough was named the American&nbsp;Association Player of the Week during the final month of the season last&nbsp;August 1st.

American Association names Monarchs' Hall pitcher of the week

This season, AJ's in The Alley in downtown Salina is the home for the Coach Heron O'Neal Show.

If you can't be there in person, you can watch the show live on Salina Post or listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays! Click the link below to watch the show.

This season, AJ's in The Alley in downtown Salina is the home for the Coach Heron O'Neal Show.If you can't be there in person, you can watch the show live on Salina Post or listen to it on KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM) from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays! Click the link below to watch the show.<figure>
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Watch the Coach Heron O'Neal Show live at 5:30 tonight!

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (5-4) ended their ninth straight home game with a loss to the Chicago Dogs (4-5) on Sunday afternoon, 4-1. With wins Friday and Saturday night, the Monarchs took two of three games, winning the series against the Dogs.&nbsp;

On Buck O’ Neil Day at Legends Field, the Dogs wasted no time as they scored quickly in the first inning when Michael Crouse hit a sacrifice fly to right field to score Charlie Tilson.&nbsp;

Both teams had several opportunities to score throughout the next five innings. However, in the sixth inning Cosimo Cannella lifted a sacrifice fly to left field to score Ryan Lidge. Harrison Smith followed this up by hitting a ball to the wall. Joel Booker had a great jump on the hit but was unable to make the tough play as Anfernee Grier scored. The Dogs finished the inning with Smith crossing the plate for an unearned run, giving them a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;

After no prior run production on the day, The Monarchs finally got on the board in the eighth inning as Jan Hernandez reached base due to an error made by Canella at third. Casey Gillaspie followed this at-bat with a single into the outfield. A hard line drive single by Pete Kozma drove in Hernandez to bring in the first run for the Monarchs as they trailed 4-1.&nbsp;

In the 9th inning, Jeff Kinley retired Joel Booker, Darnell Sweeney, and Matt Adams to lead the Dogs to victory over the Monarchs. The Dogs finished the game with eleven runners left on base while the Monarchs stranded twelve.&nbsp;

The Monarchs will be back in action for game one against Gary SouthShore Monday at 6:45 p.m. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:20 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (5-4) ended their ninth straight home game with a loss to the Chicago Dogs (4-5) on Sunday afternoon, 4-1. With wins Friday and Saturday night, the Monarchs took two of three games, winning the series against the Dogs.&nbsp;On Buck O’ Neil Day at Legends Field, the Dogs wasted no time as they scored quickly in the first inning when Michael Crouse hit a sacrifice fly to right field to score Charlie Tilson.&nbsp;Both teams had several opportunities to score throughout the next five innings. However, in the sixth inning Cosimo Cannella lifted a sacrifice fly to left field to score Ryan Lidge. Harrison Smith followed this up by hitting a ball to the wall. Joel Booker had a great jump on the hit but was unable to make the tough play as Anfernee Grier scored. The Dogs finished the inning with Smith crossing the plate for an unearned run, giving them a 4-0 lead.&nbsp;After no prior run production on the day, The Monarchs finally got on the board in the eighth inning as Jan Hernandez reached base due to an error made by Canella at third. Casey Gillaspie followed this at-bat with a single into the outfield. A hard line drive single by Pete Kozma drove in Hernandez to bring in the first run for the Monarchs as they trailed 4-1.&nbsp;In the 9th inning, Jeff Kinley retired Joel Booker, Darnell Sweeney, and Matt Adams to lead the Dogs to victory over the Monarchs. The Dogs finished the game with eleven runners left on base while the Monarchs stranded twelve.&nbsp;The Monarchs will be back in action for game one against Gary SouthShore Monday at 6:45 p.m. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:20 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

Monarchs drop series finale with Chicago Dogs, 4-1

LAWRENCE —&nbsp;Ritch Price, the winningest coach in Kansas Baseball history, announced his retirement on Sunday after 20 seasons at the helm for the Jayhawks. 

One of the most respected college baseball coaches in the country, Price led Kansas to 581 victories, one Big 12 Tournament Championship and three NCAA regional appearances during his tenure in Lawrence.&nbsp;&nbsp; He finished his distinguished career at Kansas with a record of 581-558-3 (.510). “Ritch Price poured his heart and soul into the Kansas Baseball program for two decades, and we are forever grateful for his significant contributions to our university, athletic department and baseball program,” said Director of Athletics Travis Goff. “His pride for Kansas Baseball is unmatched and he has made an indelible impact on countless young men and our program. On behalf of the entire athletic department, we wish Ritch the very best in his well-deserved retirement.” Price was named the 33rd head baseball coach at Kansas on July 1, 2002. In his first season at KU, he led them to a winning record and 35 wins, marking the most by the program in eight seasons. He posted 11 winning seasons with the Jayhawks, including a 43-25 mark in 2006, a 39-24 record in 2009 and a 35-26 record in 2014 and leading all three of those squads to the NCAA Tournament. In his time at Kansas, Price has coached 109 all-conference selections, 147 academic all-conference honorees and has seen 75 Jayhawks go on to play professional baseball, including 10 Top 10 round draft picks. In addition, Price mentored two Big 12 Newcomers of the Year in Jordan Piché in 2013 &amp; Ben Krauth in 2015, two All-Americans in Don Czyz in 2006 &amp; Tony Thompson in 2009, and one National Stopper of the Year, with Czyz earning the honor in 2006. Czyz had one of the most dominant seasons ever by a Kansas pitcher in 2006 when he led the nation with 19 saves and posted a 6-0 record with a 1.56 ERA. With Czyz at the backend of the bullpen, Kansas won 43 games, the Big 12 Tournament Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1993. He was a seventh-round draft pick of the Florida Marlins. Thompson became the first player in Big 12 Conference history to win the Triple Crown, leading the league in batting average (.389), home runs (21) and RBI (84) during a breakout season in 2009. He was named All-Big 12 First Team, a second-team All-American and was selected for the NCAA Chapel Hill Region All-Tournament Team. He also tied for third nationally in doubles with 27. Czyz and Thompson were just two of the 14 All-Big 12 first-team selections Price coached during his time at Kansas, including his youngest son, Robby, who earned the honor in 2010. Price also stressed the importance of succeeding off the field, having at least one player named Academic All-Big 12 first-team in 18 of his 19 seasons. Price also prepared his student-athletes for the next level, having four players – pitchers Jackson Goddard, Ryan Zeferjahn and Wes Benjamin and catcher Jaxx Groshans – drafted in the top five rounds of the Major League Baseball Draft. At least one player on Price’s roster was either signed or drafted in 18 of his 19 seasons. In 2010, headlined by Thompson’s selection in the sixth round, Price saw seven players drafted, including a pair of Lawrence products in Travis Blankenship and Brian Heere. In his time as Kansas coach, Price saw seven Jayhawks make it to the Major Leagues, including pitchers Wes Benjamin, Sam Freeman, Mike Zagurski, Tom Gorzelanny, Colton Murray and Brett Bochy and third baseman Travis Metcalf. In his final two seasons, Price helped develop sophomore shortstop Maui Ahuna who finished the 2022 season with a .396 batting average, the highest mark by a KU player since 1997. Ahuna is touted as a top draft prospect for the 2023 MLB Draft. Despite difficult Midwest weather conditions faced each season, Price always focused on finding a way for his squads to compete and play fundamentally strong baseball. A staple of Price’s teams was strong defense. In 2012, Kansas established a new program record in fielding percentage at .977. Additionally, the Jayhawks led the Big 12 in fielding each of the past two full seasons in 2019 and 2021. Over the last 10 seasons, Kansas has never had a fielding percentage below .965. Price guided KU to twelve 30-win seasons in his tenure. The dean of the conference, he has also coached more than 250 Big 12 baseball games, more than any other active coach in the league. His 20 years in the Big 12 Conference match Texas' Augie Garrido for the longest-tenured coach in league history. Price has been coaching baseball for 44 years and amassed 1,199 wins in his career between the Division I, junior college and high school levels. Prior to his 20 seasons at Kansas, Price was the head coach at Cal Poly (1994-2002) where he transitioned the Mustangs into a Division I program; at De Anza Community College (1987-94) where he was also the director of athletics; at Menlo College (1983-86); and got his start at both Phoenix High School (1978-81) and at Jasper High School (1982-83). His Division I record finishes at 798-786-4 (.504).&nbsp; The Sweet Home, Oregon, native and 1978 graduate of Willamette University is a Hall of Famer as a player and a coach. Price was inducted into the NWCA Hall of Fame as a player in 1998 for his two seasons at Linn-Benton Community College. Then, in May 2009 Price was inducted into the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame for his eight seasons coaching at De Anza Community College. The search for the next leader of Kansas Baseball will begin immediately and Associate Head Coach Ryan Graves has agreed to serve as the interim head coach.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653261032671.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy kuathletics.com" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy kuathletics.com</figcaption>
 </figure>KU AthleticsLAWRENCE —&nbsp;Ritch Price, the winningest coach in Kansas Baseball history, announced his retirement on Sunday after 20 seasons at the helm for the Jayhawks. One of the most respected college baseball coaches in the country, Price led Kansas to 581 victories, one Big 12 Tournament Championship and three NCAA regional appearances during his tenure in Lawrence.&nbsp;&nbsp; He finished his distinguished career at Kansas with a record of 581-558-3 (.510). “Ritch Price poured his heart and soul into the Kansas Baseball program for two decades, and we are forever grateful for his significant contributions to our university, athletic department and baseball program,” said Director of Athletics Travis Goff. “His pride for Kansas Baseball is unmatched and he has made an indelible impact on countless young men and our program. On behalf of the entire athletic department, we wish Ritch the very best in his well-deserved retirement.” Price was named the 33rd head baseball coach at Kansas on July 1, 2002. In his first season at KU, he led them to a winning record and 35 wins, marking the most by the program in eight seasons. He posted 11 winning seasons with the Jayhawks, including a 43-25 mark in 2006, a 39-24 record in 2009 and a 35-26 record in 2014 and leading all three of those squads to the NCAA Tournament. In his time at Kansas, Price has coached 109 all-conference selections, 147 academic all-conference honorees and has seen 75 Jayhawks go on to play professional baseball, including 10 Top 10 round draft picks. In addition, Price mentored two Big 12 Newcomers of the Year in Jordan Piché in 2013 &amp; Ben Krauth in 2015, two All-Americans in Don Czyz in 2006 &amp; Tony Thompson in 2009, and one National Stopper of the Year, with Czyz earning the honor in 2006. Czyz had one of the most dominant seasons ever by a Kansas pitcher in 2006 when he led the nation with 19 saves and posted a 6-0 record with a 1.56 ERA. With Czyz at the backend of the bullpen, Kansas won 43 games, the Big 12 Tournament Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1993. He was a seventh-round draft pick of the Florida Marlins. Thompson became the first player in Big 12 Conference history to win the Triple Crown, leading the league in batting average (.389), home runs (21) and RBI (84) during a breakout season in 2009. He was named All-Big 12 First Team, a second-team All-American and was selected for the NCAA Chapel Hill Region All-Tournament Team. He also tied for third nationally in doubles with 27. Czyz and Thompson were just two of the 14 All-Big 12 first-team selections Price coached during his time at Kansas, including his youngest son, Robby, who earned the honor in 2010. Price also stressed the importance of succeeding off the field, having at least one player named Academic All-Big 12 first-team in 18 of his 19 seasons. Price also prepared his student-athletes for the next level, having four players – pitchers Jackson Goddard, Ryan Zeferjahn and Wes Benjamin and catcher Jaxx Groshans – drafted in the top five rounds of the Major League Baseball Draft. At least one player on Price’s roster was either signed or drafted in 18 of his 19 seasons. In 2010, headlined by Thompson’s selection in the sixth round, Price saw seven players drafted, including a pair of Lawrence products in Travis Blankenship and Brian Heere. In his time as Kansas coach, Price saw seven Jayhawks make it to the Major Leagues, including pitchers Wes Benjamin, Sam Freeman, Mike Zagurski, Tom Gorzelanny, Colton Murray and Brett Bochy and third baseman Travis Metcalf. In his final two seasons, Price helped develop sophomore shortstop Maui Ahuna who finished the 2022 season with a .396 batting average, the highest mark by a KU player since 1997. Ahuna is touted as a top draft prospect for the 2023 MLB Draft. Despite difficult Midwest weather conditions faced each season, Price always focused on finding a way for his squads to compete and play fundamentally strong baseball. A staple of Price’s teams was strong defense. In 2012, Kansas established a new program record in fielding percentage at .977. Additionally, the Jayhawks led the Big 12 in fielding each of the past two full seasons in 2019 and 2021. Over the last 10 seasons, Kansas has never had a fielding percentage below .965. Price guided KU to twelve 30-win seasons in his tenure. The dean of the conference, he has also coached more than 250 Big 12 baseball games, more than any other active coach in the league. His 20 years in the Big 12 Conference match Texas' Augie Garrido for the longest-tenured coach in league history. Price has been coaching baseball for 44 years and amassed 1,199 wins in his career between the Division I, junior college and high school levels. Prior to his 20 seasons at Kansas, Price was the head coach at Cal Poly (1994-2002) where he transitioned the Mustangs into a Division I program; at De Anza Community College (1987-94) where he was also the director of athletics; at Menlo College (1983-86); and got his start at both Phoenix High School (1978-81) and at Jasper High School (1982-83). His Division I record finishes at 798-786-4 (.504).&nbsp; The Sweet Home, Oregon, native and 1978 graduate of Willamette University is a Hall of Famer as a player and a coach. Price was inducted into the NWCA Hall of Fame as a player in 1998 for his two seasons at Linn-Benton Community College. Then, in May 2009 Price was inducted into the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame for his eight seasons coaching at De Anza Community College. The search for the next leader of Kansas Baseball will begin immediately and Associate Head Coach Ryan Graves has agreed to serve as the interim head coach.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KU: Baseball Head Coach Price retires after 20 seasons

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gio Urshela hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning to complete Minnesota's comeback from a six-run deficit, lifting the Twins over the Kansas City Royals 7-6. 

Down 6-0, the Twins scored five times in the eighth, capped by Kyle Garlick's two-run homer. Jorge Polanco drew a leadoff walk from Josh Staumont in the ninth, Max Kepler doubled and Gary Sanchez tied it with his second sacrifice fly in two innings. With two outs, Urshela singled for the lead.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Gio Urshela hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning to complete Minnesota's comeback from a six-run deficit, lifting the Twins over the Kansas City Royals 7-6. Down 6-0, the Twins scored five times in the eighth, capped by Kyle Garlick's two-run homer. Jorge Polanco drew a leadoff walk from Josh Staumont in the ninth, Max Kepler doubled and Gary Sanchez tied it with his second sacrifice fly in two innings. With two outs, Urshela singled for the lead.

Urshela, Twins overcome 6-run deficit, rally past Royals 7-6

WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge defeated the Springfield Cardinals 2-1 on a walk-off single by Michael Helman to win their sixth consecutive series.

Deshawn Keirsey started the ninth inning with a leadoff double and went on to score as Michael Helman singled to center field to win the game 2-1. Wichita reliever Bryan Sammons earned his first win of the season.

Danny Coulombe got the start on the mound for the Wind Surge for an MLB rehab assignment and pitched one inning before being relieved by Surge starter Matt Canterino. Canterino went on to pitch four scoreless innings and allowed zero runs and zero hits and struck out six batters before being relieved by Casey Legumina in the sixth inning.

The Wichita bullpen combined for eight innings pitched and only allowed one run on six hits and struck out 13 total batters.

Notes: Wichita wins their sixth straight series, most in Wind Surge history… Balks have occurred in the last three games… The Wind Surge had their tenth come from behind win of the season and fourth walk-off win.&nbsp;

Coming Up: The Wind Surge will head to Corpus Christi for a six-game road trip against the Hooks, starting on Tuesday for a 6:35 first pitch. Louie Varland will take the mound for the Wind Surge. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,yTJsqixcRc8M9AkNIwGh-X3JXxuoyFN5CxPHvGhJdwZGFt6bkP0dVnVQpt5OLy9Mh4socm1kvtPZM2mIM2hm4TbdACiTMEcMdU8pnf78&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,tJdNNhRaxPqwadHYCgwKKQuQQC4yoIrqWn3q2geh-blQXqibwaaC9ojVrigb8bl6Mo_3HDLXi7DP9013W3NCTy5FFqQh6y6Y43IIRzEb3NPJ1dY,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

The Wind Surge returns home on May 31 vs. Frisco.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653254166641.jpeg" alt="Deshawn Keirsey scored on a walk-off single by Michael Helman. Photo courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Deshawn Keirsey scored on a walk-off single by Michael Helman. Photo courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge defeated the Springfield Cardinals 2-1 on a walk-off single by Michael Helman to win their sixth consecutive series.Deshawn Keirsey started the ninth inning with a leadoff double and went on to score as Michael Helman singled to center field to win the game 2-1. Wichita reliever Bryan Sammons earned his first win of the season.Danny Coulombe got the start on the mound for the Wind Surge for an MLB rehab assignment and pitched one inning before being relieved by Surge starter Matt Canterino. Canterino went on to pitch four scoreless innings and allowed zero runs and zero hits and struck out six batters before being relieved by Casey Legumina in the sixth inning.The Wichita bullpen combined for eight innings pitched and only allowed one run on six hits and struck out 13 total batters.Notes: Wichita wins their sixth straight series, most in Wind Surge history… Balks have occurred in the last three games… The Wind Surge had their tenth come from behind win of the season and fourth walk-off win.&nbsp;Coming Up: The Wind Surge will head to Corpus Christi for a six-game road trip against the Hooks, starting on Tuesday for a 6:35 first pitch. Louie Varland will take the mound for the Wind Surge. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,yTJsqixcRc8M9AkNIwGh-X3JXxuoyFN5CxPHvGhJdwZGFt6bkP0dVnVQpt5OLy9Mh4socm1kvtPZM2mIM2hm4TbdACiTMEcMdU8pnf78&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,tJdNNhRaxPqwadHYCgwKKQuQQC4yoIrqWn3q2geh-blQXqibwaaC9ojVrigb8bl6Mo_3HDLXi7DP9013W3NCTy5FFqQh6y6Y43IIRzEb3NPJ1dY,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.The Wind Surge returns home on May 31 vs. Frisco.

Wind Surge defeats Springfield with walk-off single

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

The Salina Liberty waltzed into Sioux City and handed the last undefeated team in the CIF their first loss on Saturday defeating the Bandits 39-30.

With this big bounce-back win the Liberty have clinched one of this year’s six playoff berths at 5-3 while Sioux City stays atop the standings at 7-1.

The top two scoring defenses in the league came to play in the first half as neither team would find the scoreboard through the first quarter, and Salina preserved their shutout through the intermission.

Sioux City battled but the Liberty remained in control from wire to wire, taking the lead on a second-quarter field goal from Jimmy Allen and never looking back.

Following two lackluster performances under center, Vincent Espinoza was replaced by Javin Kilgo, who became the fourth different QB to start a game for the Liberty this season.

After taking a half to get to grips, Kilgo put on a show, completing 14-18 for 152 yards and tossing three touchdowns without a pick including two to Demarius Washington to put Salina on top 29-6.

Washington quickly established himself as a go-to receiver for Kilgo, hauling in half of his completions for 115 yards to go along with the pair of touchdowns.

The Liberty defense did their part all throughout forcing two critical turnovers including a fumble recovery in the end zone by Anthony Love for a big early touchdown.

Sioux City outscored Salina 24-10 to close out the game but it was far too little far too late as the Liberty secured the series split with their long-time rival.

It was also a triumphant return for the former Special Teams Player of the Year Jimmy Allen as the kicker tacked on eight points including two field big goals in the nine-point victory.

The Liberty will return to Salina next week for their final home game of the 2022 season hosting the 0-8 Topeka Tropics while the Bandits travel to Billings for a battle of the current top-two teams.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618021366432.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Liberty waltzed into Sioux City and handed the last undefeated team in the CIF their first loss on Saturday defeating the Bandits 39-30.With this big bounce-back win the Liberty have clinched one of this year’s six playoff berths at 5-3 while Sioux City stays atop the standings at 7-1.The top two scoring defenses in the league came to play in the first half as neither team would find the scoreboard through the first quarter, and Salina preserved their shutout through the intermission.Sioux City battled but the Liberty remained in control from wire to wire, taking the lead on a second-quarter field goal from Jimmy Allen and never looking back.Following two lackluster performances under center, Vincent Espinoza was replaced by Javin Kilgo, who became the fourth different QB to start a game for the Liberty this season.After taking a half to get to grips, Kilgo put on a show, completing 14-18 for 152 yards and tossing three touchdowns without a pick including two to Demarius Washington to put Salina on top 29-6.Washington quickly established himself as a go-to receiver for Kilgo, hauling in half of his completions for 115 yards to go along with the pair of touchdowns.The Liberty defense did their part all throughout forcing two critical turnovers including a fumble recovery in the end zone by Anthony Love for a big early touchdown.Sioux City outscored Salina 24-10 to close out the game but it was far too little far too late as the Liberty secured the series split with their long-time rival.It was also a triumphant return for the former Special Teams Player of the Year Jimmy Allen as the kicker tacked on eight points including two field big goals in the nine-point victory.The Liberty will return to Salina next week for their final home game of the 2022 season hosting the 0-8 Topeka Tropics while the Bandits travel to Billings for a battle of the current top-two teams.

Kilgo dazzles in debut as Liberty hand Bandits first loss

By JAXSON WEBB Kansas City Monarchs

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Kansas City Monarchs (5-3) had the luck of the Irish on Saturday evening as those at the ballpark celebrated Irish Daze. The Monarchs pitching was staggering, and the offense struck gold, defeating the Dogs 11-2.

In back-to-back nights the Monarchs have surrendered the lead in the early innings but have stayed resilient. The Dogs were able to force Monarchs starter Lewis Thorpe (1-1) into pitching 24 pitches in the opening inning and scored the first run of the game on a sacrifice fly from Grant Kay (1-0). The shuffled and strong lineup for Kansas City responded right away after Willie Abreu’s leadoff double, and a pair of fielder's choices. Jan Hernandez also drove in a run with a single through the left side (3-1).

Lewis Thorpe came back in the second inning with a completely different demeanor. The Melbourne, Australia native went on to retire nine batters in a row, six of them strikeouts. Thorpe was dialed in and stayed on top of the Dogs lineup. He finished the evening with 5IP, 2H, 1ER, 2BB, 9K.

That momentum carried over to the offensive side of things as six different Monarchs recorded a multi-hit game. Atop of that list was CF Willie Abreu who went 3-for-4 with three RBI, and was just a triple shy of the cycle.

The fourth inning was the four-leaf clover inning for the Monarchs, scoring six runs on eight hits. David Thompson recorded two hits in the inning as Kansas City sent 11 batters to the plate.

Willie Abreu capped off the night with a towering two-run homer to stretch the lead to 11-1 in the home half of the eighth. The Dogs would scratch out one run in the ninth as Kansas City closed the “green” night out with an 11-2 win.

The Monarchs will play game three against Chicago Sunday at 3 p.m. with the gates opening at 1 p.m. The game can be heard on the Monarchs Broadcast Network with the pre-game beginning at 2:30 p.m. and the video stream airing on <a href="http://aabaseball.tv">aabaseball.tv</a>.

By JAXSON WEBB Kansas City MonarchsKANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Kansas City Monarchs (5-3) had the luck of the Irish on Saturday evening as those at the ballpark celebrated Irish Daze. The Monarchs pitching was staggering, and the offense struck gold, defeating the Dogs 11-2.In back-to-back nights the Monarchs have surrendered the lead in the early innings but have stayed resilient. The Dogs were able to force Monarchs starter Lewis Thorpe (1-1) into pitching 24 pitches in the opening inning and scored the first run of the game on a sacrifice fly from Grant Kay (1-0). The shuffled and strong lineup for Kansas City responded right away after Willie Abreu’s leadoff double, and a pair of fielder's choices. Jan Hernandez also drove in a run with a single through the left side (3-1).Lewis Thorpe came back in the second inning with a completely different demeanor. The Melbourne, Australia native went on to retire nine batters in a row, six of them strikeouts. Thorpe was dialed in and stayed on top of the Dogs lineup. He finished the evening with 5IP, 2H, 1ER, 2BB, 9K.That momentum carried over to the offensive side of things as six different Monarchs recorded a multi-hit game. Atop of that list was CF Willie Abreu who went 3-for-4 with three RBI, and was just a triple shy of the cycle.The fourth inning was the four-leaf clover inning for the Monarchs, scoring six runs on eight hits. David Thompson recorded two hits in the inning as Kansas City sent 11 batters to the plate.Willie Abreu capped off the night with a towering two-run homer to stretch the lead to 11-1 in the home half of the eighth. The Dogs would scratch out one run in the ninth as Kansas City closed the “green” night out with an 11-2 win.The Monarchs will play game three against Chicago Sunday at 3 p.m. with the gates opening at 1 p.m. The game can be heard on the Monarchs Broadcast Network with the pre-game beginning at 2:30 p.m. and the video stream airing on <a href="http://aabaseball.tv">aabaseball.tv</a>.

Monarchs defeat Chicago Dogs, 11-2

LOS ANGELES -&nbsp;The short-handed KC Current fell 1-0 to Angel City FC in the second of three matches on the road. The Current, without head coach Matt Potter and four players due to COVID protocol, held the match scoreless until an unlucky own goal from Taylor Leach gave Los Angeles the lead in the 70th minute.

“So, so proud of the players and how they responded,” said acting head coach Lloyd Yaxley. “I felt like everyone that was a part of this organization this week gave their all for the cause.”

Rookie Alex Loera had Kansas City’s best chance of the night off a free kick from the edge of the penalty box. Her rocket toward the top left corner forced a sprawling save from goalkeeper Didi Haracic.

Kansas City goalkeeper AD Franch had an outstanding night with four saves against the high-pressure attack from Angel City. In the 31st&nbsp;minute, Los Angeles forward Simone Charley charged past the defensive line to find herself alone against Franch. The goalkeeper came up big at the near post with a kick save to keep the match level.

Franch came up big again in the 78th minute, when an Angel City corner kick found Vanessa Gilles at the penalty spot. A quick diving save from Franch prevented a second Los Angeles goal.

COVID replacement player Jada Talley made her NWSL debut in the 84th minute. Talley was selected by the Orlando Pride with the 31st overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft. After playing at Arizona University from 2017-2020, the Corona, California native played her final season at the University of Southern California.

The Current finishes its road stretch against OL Reign May 25. The next home match is May 30 against Racing Louisville FC. Season Tickets and Flex plans are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascitycurrent.com/" target="_blank">kansascitycurrent.com</a>.

LOS ANGELES -&nbsp;The short-handed KC Current fell 1-0 to Angel City FC in the second of three matches on the road. The Current, without head coach Matt Potter and four players due to COVID protocol, held the match scoreless until an unlucky own goal from Taylor Leach gave Los Angeles the lead in the 70th minute.“So, so proud of the players and how they responded,” said acting head coach Lloyd Yaxley. “I felt like everyone that was a part of this organization this week gave their all for the cause.”Rookie Alex Loera had Kansas City’s best chance of the night off a free kick from the edge of the penalty box. Her rocket toward the top left corner forced a sprawling save from goalkeeper Didi Haracic.Kansas City goalkeeper AD Franch had an outstanding night with four saves against the high-pressure attack from Angel City. In the 31st&nbsp;minute, Los Angeles forward Simone Charley charged past the defensive line to find herself alone against Franch. The goalkeeper came up big at the near post with a kick save to keep the match level.Franch came up big again in the 78th minute, when an Angel City corner kick found Vanessa Gilles at the penalty spot. A quick diving save from Franch prevented a second Los Angeles goal.COVID replacement player Jada Talley made her NWSL debut in the 84th minute. Talley was selected by the Orlando Pride with the 31st overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft. After playing at Arizona University from 2017-2020, the Corona, California native played her final season at the University of Southern California.The Current finishes its road stretch against OL Reign May 25. The next home match is May 30 against Racing Louisville FC. Season Tickets and Flex plans are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascitycurrent.com/" target="_blank">kansascitycurrent.com</a>.

Kansas City Current drops close match despite Franch's 4 saves

HUTCHINSON - Entering the third and final day of action with 36 points accumulated through two days of events, the Cloud County Community College men's track and field team would turn three top-eight finishes into an additional five points to finish in sixth place at the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson. Finishing as one of six Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference schools in the top seven, the T-Birds would finish six points ahead of both Northwest Kansas Tech and Colby who would both finish with 35 points in a tie for seventh. Other KJCCC schools to finish in the top seven included a third-place finish from Barton (68 points), a fourth-place finish from Coffeyville (67.5 points), and a fifth-place finish from Butler (48 points). South Plains College would defend their 2021 NJCAA Outdoor Track National Title by finishing as the only school to eclipse 100 points with 104 points to outlast Iowa Western who would finish National Runner-Up with 85 total points. After scoring 19 points on the opening day of competition on Thursday, CCCC would have a strong start to day two action as multi-event athletes&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3dd300da-2b09-4bdb-960d-647d4877a28c?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Andrew Betton</a>&nbsp;(6,274 points, second) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fcebb69d-bf71-49b8-b9e8-469f68d01524?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Anson Moses</a>&nbsp;(6,335 points, fourth) would both earn top-five finishes in the decathlon to add 12 points to the T-Bird team total. Cloud County would then see&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2f29cc5b-cb2a-4149-b542-8913ac0e05fe?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Michael Iyali</a>&nbsp;run his way to a fifth-place finish in the 3,000-steeplechase in a time of 9:24.75 and put CCCC at their day two total of 36 points. In the remaining limited action on Friday by Cloud County, freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/81e8a9a2-a478-4e1a-9ba4-4a6d3f2864ac?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Hassan Abidi</a>&nbsp;would run a qualifying time of 1:53.44 in the 800 meters to post the sixth-fastest time in the 40-man field. Turning things over to the final day on Saturday morning, an early point for the T-Birds would come from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8ab462ea-4af4-4649-b35a-b532b27c797a?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Davis Mick</a>&nbsp;in the javelin with a throw of 48.80 meters (160 ft. - 1 in.) to take eighth before seeing Abidi take seventh in the 800-meter finals with a time of 1:53.58. The other points for CCCC scored on Saturday would come in the 400-meter hurdle finals as a Thursday qualifying time ran by&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/194e9a4e-3358-4bfb-9e35-82d4011f9a45?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Ephraim Lerkin</a>&nbsp;would turn into a seventh-place finish by posting a time of 54.34 seconds. For Cloud County, the sixth-place team finish continues a stretch dating back to the 2017 NJCAA Outdoor National Championships that the T-Birds have finished no worse than sixth at an NJCAA National Championship Track Meet. Included in the stretch are five top-three finishes on the National Stage including the program's lone National Championship coming in the 2019 outdoor season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cloud County AthleticsHUTCHINSON - Entering the third and final day of action with 36 points accumulated through two days of events, the Cloud County Community College men's track and field team would turn three top-eight finishes into an additional five points to finish in sixth place at the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson. Finishing as one of six Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference schools in the top seven, the T-Birds would finish six points ahead of both Northwest Kansas Tech and Colby who would both finish with 35 points in a tie for seventh. Other KJCCC schools to finish in the top seven included a third-place finish from Barton (68 points), a fourth-place finish from Coffeyville (67.5 points), and a fifth-place finish from Butler (48 points). South Plains College would defend their 2021 NJCAA Outdoor Track National Title by finishing as the only school to eclipse 100 points with 104 points to outlast Iowa Western who would finish National Runner-Up with 85 total points. After scoring 19 points on the opening day of competition on Thursday, CCCC would have a strong start to day two action as multi-event athletes&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3dd300da-2b09-4bdb-960d-647d4877a28c?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Andrew Betton</a>&nbsp;(6,274 points, second) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fcebb69d-bf71-49b8-b9e8-469f68d01524?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Anson Moses</a>&nbsp;(6,335 points, fourth) would both earn top-five finishes in the decathlon to add 12 points to the T-Bird team total. Cloud County would then see&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2f29cc5b-cb2a-4149-b542-8913ac0e05fe?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Michael Iyali</a>&nbsp;run his way to a fifth-place finish in the 3,000-steeplechase in a time of 9:24.75 and put CCCC at their day two total of 36 points. In the remaining limited action on Friday by Cloud County, freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/81e8a9a2-a478-4e1a-9ba4-4a6d3f2864ac?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Hassan Abidi</a>&nbsp;would run a qualifying time of 1:53.44 in the 800 meters to post the sixth-fastest time in the 40-man field. Turning things over to the final day on Saturday morning, an early point for the T-Birds would come from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8ab462ea-4af4-4649-b35a-b532b27c797a?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Davis Mick</a>&nbsp;in the javelin with a throw of 48.80 meters (160 ft. - 1 in.) to take eighth before seeing Abidi take seventh in the 800-meter finals with a time of 1:53.58. The other points for CCCC scored on Saturday would come in the 400-meter hurdle finals as a Thursday qualifying time ran by&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/194e9a4e-3358-4bfb-9e35-82d4011f9a45?elinkdata=27508" target="_blank">Ephraim Lerkin</a>&nbsp;would turn into a seventh-place finish by posting a time of 54.34 seconds. For Cloud County, the sixth-place team finish continues a stretch dating back to the 2017 NJCAA Outdoor National Championships that the T-Birds have finished no worse than sixth at an NJCAA National Championship Track Meet. Included in the stretch are five top-three finishes on the National Stage including the program's lone National Championship coming in the 2019 outdoor season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Men's track finishes sixth at NJCAA championships

WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge late-inning rally fell short as they lost to the Springfield Cardinals 9-7.&nbsp;

The Surge scored six runs in the seventh inning to shrink the Springfield lead to 9-6. Andrew Bechtold hit a three-run homer, and two walks and a wild pitch with the bases loaded plated three more Wichita baserunners.

Wichita scored another run in the bottom of the eighth as Chris Williams hit an RBI- double to score Matt Wallner. Williams finished the night going three for four with an RBI and a walk. Springfield closer Freddy Pacheco retired the side in the bottom of the ninth to secure the Cardinals victory.

Kyle Leahy started and earned the win for Springfield.&nbsp; He pitched six innings and did not allow a run into the seventh inning.&nbsp; Ben Gross took the loss.

Notes: Michael Helman’s hit streak ended at eleven games.&nbsp; Chris Vallimont was designated for assignment and Zach Featherstone was activated from development roster.&nbsp;

Coming Up: The Wind Surge will resume action Sunday for the series finale against the Springfield Cardinals. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. and gates open at 5 p.m. Matt Canterino will take the hill for Wichita and Domingo Robles will be on the mound for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,fxDhIretLQnjRcIdEhSuHIsT9f28HrIJFLQp0oYKdm83h2isY1HtaFHSQG1IJxu0Fks6yL7xqapkZuMvi1N6M1XfU4aAX7rjKdzrEMd7RvqmuV6cSphqDllqFvgQ&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,chDpxP3FVoSK-Tz2PH8mOBJF_HE8BcEh0W9MT4wfvpUAXBYWtdN0kCSOJUq1s1LklE3b_kqQlDm-YBPLn98tnfxLKfBPUX_zu0azGkg9Sh8WXaRT8kov9ZRr-w,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge late-inning rally fell short as they lost to the Springfield Cardinals 9-7.&nbsp;The Surge scored six runs in the seventh inning to shrink the Springfield lead to 9-6. Andrew Bechtold hit a three-run homer, and two walks and a wild pitch with the bases loaded plated three more Wichita baserunners.Wichita scored another run in the bottom of the eighth as Chris Williams hit an RBI- double to score Matt Wallner. Williams finished the night going three for four with an RBI and a walk. Springfield closer Freddy Pacheco retired the side in the bottom of the ninth to secure the Cardinals victory.Kyle Leahy started and earned the win for Springfield.&nbsp; He pitched six innings and did not allow a run into the seventh inning.&nbsp; Ben Gross took the loss.Notes: Michael Helman’s hit streak ended at eleven games.&nbsp; Chris Vallimont was designated for assignment and Zach Featherstone was activated from development roster.&nbsp;Coming Up: The Wind Surge will resume action Sunday for the series finale against the Springfield Cardinals. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. and gates open at 5 p.m. Matt Canterino will take the hill for Wichita and Domingo Robles will be on the mound for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,fxDhIretLQnjRcIdEhSuHIsT9f28HrIJFLQp0oYKdm83h2isY1HtaFHSQG1IJxu0Fks6yL7xqapkZuMvi1N6M1XfU4aAX7rjKdzrEMd7RvqmuV6cSphqDllqFvgQ&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,chDpxP3FVoSK-Tz2PH8mOBJF_HE8BcEh0W9MT4wfvpUAXBYWtdN0kCSOJUq1s1LklE3b_kqQlDm-YBPLn98tnfxLKfBPUX_zu0azGkg9Sh8WXaRT8kov9ZRr-w,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

Wind Surge comeback falls short against Springfield

HUTCHINSON - Adding two more individual national champions to go along with three additional top-three finishers on days two and three of the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, the Cloud County Community College women's track and field team walked away with more hardware by finishing third to cap off a memorable 2022 track season at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson. Scoring a total of 49 total points to more than double their three-day total and finish with 92 total points, the T-Birds would trail only National Runner-Up New Mexico Junior College (98 points) and National Champion Iowa Western who would win their second-straight NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship after scoring 117 total points. Just two points back of CCCC would be fourth place and Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference foe Barton with 90 points while South Plains College would be a distant fifth with 70 total points to round out the top-five. Recapping Friday's action for CCCC, the T-Birds would add 16 points to their day one total of 27 points by getting a third-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3e95829d-1300-4719-b625-d310f9aedf8b?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Ludjenie Mondesir</a>&nbsp;(11:32.49) and fifth-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2500205a-a72c-48e2-95f2-e40abe3d5abe?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Melody Ochana</a>&nbsp;(11:46.49) in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. The remaining six points scored on Friday would come in the completion of the multi-event heptathlon as&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/25425944-6d64-420f-bc44-0e2bf13419b0?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Vanessa Mercera</a>&nbsp;would take third by scoring a total of 4,498 points as part of second-place finishes in the high jump (1.55 meters, 5 ft. - 1 in.) and 800 meters (2:26.36) in the event. Other key action for Cloud County on Friday would see qualifying times run by both&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/a76b4837-2072-4d02-be39-593b29ff8929?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Pamela Milano</a>&nbsp;(sixth, 2:16.51) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8d1db12d-9b84-422a-9b10-eb08b8792c4f?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Passion Crews</a>&nbsp;(ninth, 2:16.74) in the 800 meters as well as the 4x400 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ba0886db-4333-4b7a-8770-b3ffcd9c15fb?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Leonie Beu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/98ff679c-a605-46d2-baf3-519eb1960d64?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Isila Apkup</a>, Mercera, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/24bfaac2-15bd-4c04-bb27-c256a3590e6d?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Vimbayi Maisvorewa</a>) with a fourth-place time of 3:44.20. Highlighting the final day of action for the T-Birds with National Titles would be sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/de93e362-5d29-42ca-bc0e-caef9423e116?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Hollie Stewart</a>&nbsp;in the javelin (41.81 meters, 137 ft. - 2 in.) along with freshman Maisvorewa in the 400 meters (54.18 seconds). Adding a National Runner-Up performance in her first appearance at the NJCAA Track Championships would be freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/d03fc11d-54cc-4384-a742-962cf86493dd?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Jessi Brummett</a>&nbsp;finishing just behind Stewart in the javelin with a throw of 39.19 meters (128 ft. - 7 in.) while seeing&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fee2a296-e4fd-4538-8347-df5b009ab81e?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Faithlyn Irving</a>&nbsp;earn a fourth-place finish in the triple jump (12.16 meters, 39 ft. - 10.75 in.) and a fifth-place finish from Milano in the 800 meters. Also adding fifth-place finishes on Saturday would be the 4x100 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/61def2b4-778c-4aaa-b68f-e31b50b03b8f?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Miracle Thompson</a>, Beu, Apkup, and Maisvorewa, 46.44 seconds) and the 4x400 meter relay team (Beu, Apkup, Mercera, and Maisvorewa, 3:47.37). The final three points scored by the T-Birds on Saturday would come from the second top-eight finish of the weekend for freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e21afe5f-4625-4031-b168-4b14f0bce6b8?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Lucy Ndungu</a>&nbsp;following a sixth-place finish in the 5,000 meters (18:33.12). With the third-place team finish, Cloud County has now finished in third place at three of the past four NJCAA Track and Field Championships held (Indoor and Outdoor) while finishing no worse than seventh in every National Championship meet held dating back to 2019. For the 2022 indoor and outdoor season, the T-Birds would sweep both the NJCAA Region VI Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field titles while seeing each of the third-place finishes on the national stage come behind Iowa Western and New Mexico Junior College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653187350759.jpeg" alt="The Cloud County women's track team is bringing home NJCAA Track hardware for the third time in the past two year. Photo by Drew Mahin courtesy <a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>The Cloud County women's track team is bringing home NJCAA Track hardware for the third time in the past two year. Photo by Drew Mahin courtesy <a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Cloud County AthleticsHUTCHINSON - Adding two more individual national champions to go along with three additional top-three finishers on days two and three of the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, the Cloud County Community College women's track and field team walked away with more hardware by finishing third to cap off a memorable 2022 track season at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson. Scoring a total of 49 total points to more than double their three-day total and finish with 92 total points, the T-Birds would trail only National Runner-Up New Mexico Junior College (98 points) and National Champion Iowa Western who would win their second-straight NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship after scoring 117 total points. Just two points back of CCCC would be fourth place and Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference foe Barton with 90 points while South Plains College would be a distant fifth with 70 total points to round out the top-five. Recapping Friday's action for CCCC, the T-Birds would add 16 points to their day one total of 27 points by getting a third-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3e95829d-1300-4719-b625-d310f9aedf8b?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Ludjenie Mondesir</a>&nbsp;(11:32.49) and fifth-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2500205a-a72c-48e2-95f2-e40abe3d5abe?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Melody Ochana</a>&nbsp;(11:46.49) in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. The remaining six points scored on Friday would come in the completion of the multi-event heptathlon as&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/25425944-6d64-420f-bc44-0e2bf13419b0?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Vanessa Mercera</a>&nbsp;would take third by scoring a total of 4,498 points as part of second-place finishes in the high jump (1.55 meters, 5 ft. - 1 in.) and 800 meters (2:26.36) in the event. Other key action for Cloud County on Friday would see qualifying times run by both&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/a76b4837-2072-4d02-be39-593b29ff8929?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Pamela Milano</a>&nbsp;(sixth, 2:16.51) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8d1db12d-9b84-422a-9b10-eb08b8792c4f?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Passion Crews</a>&nbsp;(ninth, 2:16.74) in the 800 meters as well as the 4x400 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ba0886db-4333-4b7a-8770-b3ffcd9c15fb?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Leonie Beu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/98ff679c-a605-46d2-baf3-519eb1960d64?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Isila Apkup</a>, Mercera, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/24bfaac2-15bd-4c04-bb27-c256a3590e6d?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Vimbayi Maisvorewa</a>) with a fourth-place time of 3:44.20. Highlighting the final day of action for the T-Birds with National Titles would be sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/de93e362-5d29-42ca-bc0e-caef9423e116?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Hollie Stewart</a>&nbsp;in the javelin (41.81 meters, 137 ft. - 2 in.) along with freshman Maisvorewa in the 400 meters (54.18 seconds). Adding a National Runner-Up performance in her first appearance at the NJCAA Track Championships would be freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/d03fc11d-54cc-4384-a742-962cf86493dd?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Jessi Brummett</a>&nbsp;finishing just behind Stewart in the javelin with a throw of 39.19 meters (128 ft. - 7 in.) while seeing&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fee2a296-e4fd-4538-8347-df5b009ab81e?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Faithlyn Irving</a>&nbsp;earn a fourth-place finish in the triple jump (12.16 meters, 39 ft. - 10.75 in.) and a fifth-place finish from Milano in the 800 meters. Also adding fifth-place finishes on Saturday would be the 4x100 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/61def2b4-778c-4aaa-b68f-e31b50b03b8f?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Miracle Thompson</a>, Beu, Apkup, and Maisvorewa, 46.44 seconds) and the 4x400 meter relay team (Beu, Apkup, Mercera, and Maisvorewa, 3:47.37). The final three points scored by the T-Birds on Saturday would come from the second top-eight finish of the weekend for freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e21afe5f-4625-4031-b168-4b14f0bce6b8?elinkdata=27612" target="_blank">Lucy Ndungu</a>&nbsp;following a sixth-place finish in the 5,000 meters (18:33.12). With the third-place team finish, Cloud County has now finished in third place at three of the past four NJCAA Track and Field Championships held (Indoor and Outdoor) while finishing no worse than seventh in every National Championship meet held dating back to 2019. For the 2022 indoor and outdoor season, the T-Birds would sweep both the NJCAA Region VI Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field titles while seeing each of the third-place finishes on the national stage come behind Iowa Western and New Mexico Junior College.

T-Bird women's track team finishes 3rd at NJCAA championships

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Joe Ryan struck out six and the Minnesota Twins capped the game with a four-run ninth inning for a 9-2 win over the Kansas City Royals. 

Ryan allowed one run on five hits in 5 2/3 innings with six strikeouts. Minnesota had a pair of two-run innings and was ahead going into the ninth, when the offense erupted. The top six batters in the Twins lineup all collected RBIs in the win. 

The Royals' Brad Keller tossed seven innings and gave up four runs on five hits with four strikeouts and three walks. In the sixth inning, Keller notched his 400th career strikeout.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Joe Ryan struck out six and the Minnesota Twins capped the game with a four-run ninth inning for a 9-2 win over the Kansas City Royals. Ryan allowed one run on five hits in 5 2/3 innings with six strikeouts. Minnesota had a pair of two-run innings and was ahead going into the ninth, when the offense erupted. The top six batters in the Twins lineup all collected RBIs in the win. The Royals' Brad Keller tossed seven innings and gave up four runs on five hits with four strikeouts and three walks. In the sixth inning, Keller notched his 400th career strikeout.

Four-run ninth seals 9-2 win for Twins over Royals

With just three games remaining on the regular-season calendar the Salina Liberty will head north for a Saturday rematch against the Sioux City Bandits.

The Bandits lead the CIF as the only undefeated team left standing at 7-0 while Salina comes in at 4-3, fresh off a tough loss to the Omaha Beef.

“I thought that was a great defensive ballgame,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our offense didn’t play as well as it needed to across the board and that was our worst offensive output since I’ve been here. That was an eye-opener and we’ll be looking to shake things up and maybe bring some new people in. We know what we need to do moving forward.”

Any future Salina success will hinge on new quarterback Vincent Espinoza, who still has the full confidence of the coaching staff despite a few recent lackluster performances.

“I think he's is settling in nicely,” O’Neal said. “This is his first real live-action with the indoor game and we’ve put a lot on him but he’s been about where we hoped he would be. He has to be better but we have to be better around him to fix this offense.”

The Liberty will need to look sharp this week against a Bandits team that boasts the top scoring offense (51.1 ppg) and the second-best scoring defense (31 ppga) in the CIF.

“They have a very physical defense and they’ve got Dajon Emory who’s one of the top three defensive linemen in this league,” he said. “Offensively quarterback Lorenzo Brown sat out last week but he should be ready to go and he’s a front runner for MVP in my opinion as a dual-threat who’s won five national titles.”

Despite missing a game Brown remains third in the league in almost every passing category, completing 60% of his passes for just shy of 800 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.

“We have to make plays when we have opportunities,” O’Neal said. “We can’t drop interceptions or miss chances to strip a ball and we have to be sound up front and in our linebacker core to stop the run.”

While the Salina offense has struggled at times this season, the defense has remained as steady as ever and enters this week as the most dominant in the league, holding opponents to just 26 points per game on average.

“I’ve been impressed with how our defense has stood by our offense in practices and in games despite the low output,” he said. “They could easily be pointing the finger but we haven’t had that at all and that togetherness has been great to see.”

Kickoff between the Liberty and Bandits is set for 7:05 pm in Sioux City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>With just three games remaining on the regular-season calendar the Salina Liberty will head north for a Saturday rematch against the Sioux City Bandits.The Bandits lead the CIF as the only undefeated team left standing at 7-0 while Salina comes in at 4-3, fresh off a tough loss to the Omaha Beef.“I thought that was a great defensive ballgame,” Liberty HC Heron O’Neal said. “Our offense didn’t play as well as it needed to across the board and that was our worst offensive output since I’ve been here. That was an eye-opener and we’ll be looking to shake things up and maybe bring some new people in. We know what we need to do moving forward.”Any future Salina success will hinge on new quarterback Vincent Espinoza, who still has the full confidence of the coaching staff despite a few recent lackluster performances.“I think he's is settling in nicely,” O’Neal said. “This is his first real live-action with the indoor game and we’ve put a lot on him but he’s been about where we hoped he would be. He has to be better but we have to be better around him to fix this offense.”The Liberty will need to look sharp this week against a Bandits team that boasts the top scoring offense (51.1 ppg) and the second-best scoring defense (31 ppga) in the CIF.“They have a very physical defense and they’ve got Dajon Emory who’s one of the top three defensive linemen in this league,” he said. “Offensively quarterback Lorenzo Brown sat out last week but he should be ready to go and he’s a front runner for MVP in my opinion as a dual-threat who’s won five national titles.”Despite missing a game Brown remains third in the league in almost every passing category, completing 60% of his passes for just shy of 800 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just two interceptions.“We have to make plays when we have opportunities,” O’Neal said. “We can’t drop interceptions or miss chances to strip a ball and we have to be sound up front and in our linebacker core to stop the run.”While the Salina offense has struggled at times this season, the defense has remained as steady as ever and enters this week as the most dominant in the league, holding opponents to just 26 points per game on average.“I’ve been impressed with how our defense has stood by our offense in practices and in games despite the low output,” he said. “They could easily be pointing the finger but we haven’t had that at all and that togetherness has been great to see.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Bandits is set for 7:05 pm in Sioux City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

Top-two defenses collide as Liberty travel to Sioux City

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— A high-powered second inning from the Kansas City Monarchs (4-3) helped the team secure a 4-3 win in the series opener against the Chicago Dogs (3-4) on Friday night.&nbsp;

On Wyandotte County Appreciation Night at Legends Field, the Dogs were able to scrape across one run in the second inning after Charlie Tilson grounded into a fielder’s choice to score Grant Kay. That would be the only run Akeem Bostick (1-1) would give up on the night. After surrendering the lead, the right-hander settled in and delivered three scoreless innings including retiring the last 10 batters he faced.&nbsp;

The Monarchs offense quickly responded with four runs of their own in the home half of the second off Chicago starter Shane Barringer (1-1). Casey Gillaspie led the charge, hitting a fielder’s choice that would score Jan Hernandez for the Monarchs’ first run of the game. After Alexis Olmeda worked a walk, Joel Booker roped a double down the left field line to score Gillaspie. Darnell Sweeney got involved in the action, driving a single to right to score Olmeda.&nbsp; Pete Kozma brought home Booker on a fielder’s choice to short, giving the Monarchs a 4-1 lead entering the third.

Both teams were quiet for the next three innings. This changed in the sixth as K.C. Dobson scored Danny Mars on a fielder’s choice and Grant Kay belted a solo home run to pull the Dogs to within one.

It was still a one run game entering the ninth inning, but Brandon Koch struck out the side to shut the door on the Dogs and earn his first save of the season.

The Monarchs will play Game 2 against Chicago Saturday at 6 p.m. with the gates opening at 4 p.m.&nbsp; The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

By GABRIEL LOPEZ Kansas City MonarchsKANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— A high-powered second inning from the Kansas City Monarchs (4-3) helped the team secure a 4-3 win in the series opener against the Chicago Dogs (3-4) on Friday night.&nbsp;On Wyandotte County Appreciation Night at Legends Field, the Dogs were able to scrape across one run in the second inning after Charlie Tilson grounded into a fielder’s choice to score Grant Kay. That would be the only run Akeem Bostick (1-1) would give up on the night. After surrendering the lead, the right-hander settled in and delivered three scoreless innings including retiring the last 10 batters he faced.&nbsp;The Monarchs offense quickly responded with four runs of their own in the home half of the second off Chicago starter Shane Barringer (1-1). Casey Gillaspie led the charge, hitting a fielder’s choice that would score Jan Hernandez for the Monarchs’ first run of the game. After Alexis Olmeda worked a walk, Joel Booker roped a double down the left field line to score Gillaspie. Darnell Sweeney got involved in the action, driving a single to right to score Olmeda.&nbsp; Pete Kozma brought home Booker on a fielder’s choice to short, giving the Monarchs a 4-1 lead entering the third.Both teams were quiet for the next three innings. This changed in the sixth as K.C. Dobson scored Danny Mars on a fielder’s choice and Grant Kay belted a solo home run to pull the Dogs to within one.It was still a one run game entering the ninth inning, but Brandon Koch struck out the side to shut the door on the Dogs and earn his first save of the season.The Monarchs will play Game 2 against Chicago Saturday at 6 p.m. with the gates opening at 4 p.m.&nbsp; The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

Monarchs take series opener against Chicago Dogs

WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge fell short to the Springfield Cardinals 5-3 on Friday in front of 4,148 fans.&nbsp; The Wind Surge held the lead in the seventh inning but failed to hold the lead and ended their four-game winning streak.

The Surge trailed 2-1 in the seventh inning and rallied as Austin Martin hit an RBI single to tie the game 2-2. Wichita went on to take a 3-2 lead from a wild pitch by Springfield reliever Michael Brettell.

The Cardinals scored three runs in the eighth inning from a Jordan Walker RBI-double and a two-run homer from Todd Lott that gave Springfield a 5-3 lead.

Wichita struck first on back-to-back doubles from Michael Helman and Dennis Ortega that gave the Surge an early 1-0 lead in the second inning. Helman recorded three of Wichita’s six hits in the ballgame and finished the day three for four.

Trevor Larnach on a rehab assignment had no hits in three at bats with a walk.

Notes: Austin Martin tallied his 18th&nbsp;stolen base and is second in the Texas League in stolen bases…Michael Helman extended his hit streak to eleven games…Wichita remains in first place in the Texas League…Wichita is 0-1 when wearing Tumba Vacas uniforms.&nbsp; The Surge fall to 17-2 after scoring the first run.

Coming up: The Wind Surge will resume action Saturday. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. and gates open at 5 p.m. Chris Vallimont will get the start for Wichita and Kyle Leahy will get the start for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,PO5HPKmMP6RznPPnLLgv6PN4qQ4jwvYUC4S6_7d6filfmrMWN-DOTzbWfYLjCAqmNXpDZIpTVbTNG1J5jeqc98rmHuljAwoKhRVkytz6-Lrc&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,iTacQLJUfeBBBUw_jJp5dvsP0fPulJaz6BA3P2jP39X64j_NBFlDu3YxuxEUApwoW8YQnqSHkjdi7TRVaC_tGcm0B3tBEcIJutteSZbjkA,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

Wichita Wind SurgeWICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;The Wind Surge fell short to the Springfield Cardinals 5-3 on Friday in front of 4,148 fans.&nbsp; The Wind Surge held the lead in the seventh inning but failed to hold the lead and ended their four-game winning streak.The Surge trailed 2-1 in the seventh inning and rallied as Austin Martin hit an RBI single to tie the game 2-2. Wichita went on to take a 3-2 lead from a wild pitch by Springfield reliever Michael Brettell.The Cardinals scored three runs in the eighth inning from a Jordan Walker RBI-double and a two-run homer from Todd Lott that gave Springfield a 5-3 lead.Wichita struck first on back-to-back doubles from Michael Helman and Dennis Ortega that gave the Surge an early 1-0 lead in the second inning. Helman recorded three of Wichita’s six hits in the ballgame and finished the day three for four.Trevor Larnach on a rehab assignment had no hits in three at bats with a walk.Notes: Austin Martin tallied his 18th&nbsp;stolen base and is second in the Texas League in stolen bases…Michael Helman extended his hit streak to eleven games…Wichita remains in first place in the Texas League…Wichita is 0-1 when wearing Tumba Vacas uniforms.&nbsp; The Surge fall to 17-2 after scoring the first run.Coming up: The Wind Surge will resume action Saturday. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. and gates open at 5 p.m. Chris Vallimont will get the start for Wichita and Kyle Leahy will get the start for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,PO5HPKmMP6RznPPnLLgv6PN4qQ4jwvYUC4S6_7d6filfmrMWN-DOTzbWfYLjCAqmNXpDZIpTVbTNG1J5jeqc98rmHuljAwoKhRVkytz6-Lrc&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,iTacQLJUfeBBBUw_jJp5dvsP0fPulJaz6BA3P2jP39X64j_NBFlDu3YxuxEUApwoW8YQnqSHkjdi7TRVaC_tGcm0B3tBEcIJutteSZbjkA,,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

Springfield ends Wind Surge's win streak Friday night

KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Kyle Garlick and Jose Miranda each drove in two runs, leading Devin Smeltzer and the Minnesota Twins past the Kansas City Royals 6-4. 

Garlick put Minnesota on the scoreboard with an RBI single in a three-run first inning and added a sacrifice fly in the second. Miranda had two hits, including a two-run double with two outs in the eighth that made it 6-3. 

Smeltzer allowed one run and five hits over 5 1/3 innings in his second major league start this season. He walked one and did not record a strikeout. Jhoan Duran worked 1 2/3 hitless innings to set up Emilio Pagán for his sixth save.

 Carlos Santana and Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals.

KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Kyle Garlick and Jose Miranda each drove in two runs, leading Devin Smeltzer and the Minnesota Twins past the Kansas City Royals 6-4. Garlick put Minnesota on the scoreboard with an RBI single in a three-run first inning and added a sacrifice fly in the second. Miranda had two hits, including a two-run double with two outs in the eighth that made it 6-3. Smeltzer allowed one run and five hits over 5 1/3 innings in his second major league start this season. He walked one and did not record a strikeout. Jhoan Duran worked 1 2/3 hitless innings to set up Emilio Pagán for his sixth save. Carlos Santana and Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals.

Smeltzer backed by Garlick, Miranda as Twins beat Royals 6-4

MANHATTAN - A fourth elimination game for the Cloud County Community College baseball team in the 2022 postseason proved to be the one that would put an end to the season for the T-Birds following a 14-5, eight-inning defeat to Johnson County Community College at the 2022 Plains District Baseball Tournament at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan on Thursday. Finishing their season with an overall record of 42-18, Cloud County finishes the 2022 postseason with three victories and three defeats with all three losses coming against Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference foes. Johnson County improved to 45-16 with the win before knocking out Hutchinson Community College later on Thursday evening to advance to Friday's loser's bracket final against Kansas City Kansas Community College. With both teams coming off games on Wednesday, day three of the tournament would be one that would get off to a slow start offensively for both squads to set up a scoreless first inning of action. After two strikeouts by the T-Birds in the top of the second, CCCC would appear to have a two-out rally started when sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6f990cd8-a2b0-40c0-938b-2b8630d738f6?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Ian Riley</a>&nbsp;would find the left-center field gap to hit a double and put a runner in scoring position before taking third base on a wild pitch third strike on&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2a3eb74e-a415-4c50-a3af-4a9e88afb9f8?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Ty Wevers</a>&nbsp;that would see the Cavaliers attempt to throw out Riley. The runners on first and third situation would set up a stolen base attempt for Wevers to draw a throw from JCCC, with Johnson County making the throw to second before throwing back home to get Riley and end the inning on a close play at the plate. The final out of the top of the second would prove to be the first momentum shift of the game as the Cavaliers would take advantage of a throwing error with one out before seeing a second error on the h T-Birds lead to the first run of the game. JCCC would manage to push across one more run later in the inning with a two-out RBI single before stranding two runners on base with a strikeout looking for&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e0322612-8b6b-46b9-aa9b-9e94a1ca39bd?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Giordano Mezzomo</a>. Looking to respond to the two runs by Johnson County, Cloud County's&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/bb3c8c5a-bfaf-483b-9944-13b7a5fcf4d0?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Alexander Diaz</a>&nbsp;would hit a leadoff single before having&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/997d38f4-d2ad-4637-b1c6-36f3b18f7a19?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Willie Ponce</a>&nbsp;hit a groundout that would move the Brooklyn, New York native into scoring position. Back-to-back hit batters would allow both&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3fd88f63-e99f-499c-800c-195dd66ab06a?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Brock Wollin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c5c0122b-95d9-43eb-955f-a11d473f38e3?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Tom Poole</a>&nbsp;to reach base and load the bases, setting up a&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c1df9c61-d4d8-4ba5-81c8-404abd5e7f71?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Danny Infante</a>&nbsp;RBI single into right field to get CCCC back within a run. Following a strikeout that would put a second out on the board, sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/5530867d-3db7-4e12-84dc-8c24bc87e7e6?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Adler Pierson</a>&nbsp;would come up with a clutch two-out hit as a ground-rule double would one hop over the left-field fence and allow the T-Birds to bring home two runners to take their first lead of the game. Following the double, the Cavaliers would elect to go to the bullpen as a pitching change would lead to an inning-ending strikeout to get JCCC out of trouble. Facing the minimum in the bottom of the third, Cloud County would look to add to their one-run lead in the top of the fourth as a two-out double by Ponce would put another runner in scoring position before being stranded on a groundout. Issuing a leadoff walk, the T-Birds would see the free pass lead to a run after a sacrifice bunt and two-out RBI single tie the game at three all heading into the fifth. Cloud County would be held scoreless again in the fifth as a one-two-three inning would not see a ball leave the infield with the Cavaliers starting to build momentum. Erasing a leadoff single on a pick-off play, Mezzomo would then issue a one-out single that would be followed by a double to put runners on the corners for the Cavaliers. Things would become problematic in the next at-bat as Collin Brueggemann would turn on a pitch from Mezzomo that would clear the left-field fence and end up in the Johnson County bullpen as a three-run home run would give JCCC the lead at 6-3. Battling back from the home run, Mezzomo would induce an infield popup before getting a strikeout to end the inning as the damage would be limited to just the three runs. Trying to find another response to the offensive output of Johnson County, Cloud County would get two walks to start the top of the sixth, but see a groundout be followed by a strikeout and fly out to center field that would strand a pair of runners in scoring position. Having been able to get out of the jam in the top of the inning, the Cavaliers would add to their lead in the bottom of the inning as two more costly errors by the T-Birds would help set up a three-run inning to turn things into a 9-3 contest. With things beginning to get into the latter stages of the game, CCCC would get a one-out solo home run from Poole in the top of the seventh to go along with a solo home run from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/9e42c996-273c-452c-a072-ab1a087b6bfa?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Kolden Howerton</a>&nbsp;with two outs in the inning to get two runs back and move back within four at 9-5. Turning to reliever&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/4aa1d509-61c9-4781-afc8-f18de6d865a0?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Conner Woods</a>&nbsp;out of the bullpen after seeing the Winfield, Kansas native start Tuesday's contest, Johnson County would be retired in order with two ground outs and a flyout keeping the deficit at four. The Cavaliers would respond by making a move to the bullpen of their own, working around a leadoff walk drawn by Riley to keep the T-Birds off the scoreboard in what would prove to be a pivotal moment for CCCC. Needing to keep the deficit where it was at to try and give themselves a chance in the ninth, Things would fall apart for Cloud County in the bottom of the eighth as a hit batter and walk to start the inning would set up a three-run home run to put JCCC one run away from ending the game. After a pair of ground outs, Johnson County would extend the inning with an infield single before their third home run of the game would end the season for the T-Birds while giving the Cavaliers a 2-1 season series victory over Cloud County. CCCC's five runs would come on seven hits with seven different players recording one hit each. Pierson would be the only T-Bird to drive in more than one run as seven strikeouts would offset four walks and two hit batters for Cloud County with seven runners winding up stranded to end innings. A seven-strikeout performance from Mezzomo on the mound would be hindered by allowing six runs (four earned) on eight hits and three walks as defensive miscues would be one of the bigger stories for the T-Birds. In total, Cloud County would commit six errors which would lead to three unearned runs for Johnson County.

MANHATTAN - A fourth elimination game for the Cloud County Community College baseball team in the 2022 postseason proved to be the one that would put an end to the season for the T-Birds following a 14-5, eight-inning defeat to Johnson County Community College at the 2022 Plains District Baseball Tournament at Tointon Family Stadium in Manhattan on Thursday. Finishing their season with an overall record of 42-18, Cloud County finishes the 2022 postseason with three victories and three defeats with all three losses coming against Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference foes. Johnson County improved to 45-16 with the win before knocking out Hutchinson Community College later on Thursday evening to advance to Friday's loser's bracket final against Kansas City Kansas Community College. With both teams coming off games on Wednesday, day three of the tournament would be one that would get off to a slow start offensively for both squads to set up a scoreless first inning of action. After two strikeouts by the T-Birds in the top of the second, CCCC would appear to have a two-out rally started when sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6f990cd8-a2b0-40c0-938b-2b8630d738f6?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Ian Riley</a>&nbsp;would find the left-center field gap to hit a double and put a runner in scoring position before taking third base on a wild pitch third strike on&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2a3eb74e-a415-4c50-a3af-4a9e88afb9f8?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Ty Wevers</a>&nbsp;that would see the Cavaliers attempt to throw out Riley. The runners on first and third situation would set up a stolen base attempt for Wevers to draw a throw from JCCC, with Johnson County making the throw to second before throwing back home to get Riley and end the inning on a close play at the plate. The final out of the top of the second would prove to be the first momentum shift of the game as the Cavaliers would take advantage of a throwing error with one out before seeing a second error on the h T-Birds lead to the first run of the game. JCCC would manage to push across one more run later in the inning with a two-out RBI single before stranding two runners on base with a strikeout looking for&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e0322612-8b6b-46b9-aa9b-9e94a1ca39bd?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Giordano Mezzomo</a>. Looking to respond to the two runs by Johnson County, Cloud County's&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/bb3c8c5a-bfaf-483b-9944-13b7a5fcf4d0?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Alexander Diaz</a>&nbsp;would hit a leadoff single before having&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/997d38f4-d2ad-4637-b1c6-36f3b18f7a19?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Willie Ponce</a>&nbsp;hit a groundout that would move the Brooklyn, New York native into scoring position. Back-to-back hit batters would allow both&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/3fd88f63-e99f-499c-800c-195dd66ab06a?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Brock Wollin</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c5c0122b-95d9-43eb-955f-a11d473f38e3?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Tom Poole</a>&nbsp;to reach base and load the bases, setting up a&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c1df9c61-d4d8-4ba5-81c8-404abd5e7f71?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Danny Infante</a>&nbsp;RBI single into right field to get CCCC back within a run. Following a strikeout that would put a second out on the board, sophomore&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/5530867d-3db7-4e12-84dc-8c24bc87e7e6?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Adler Pierson</a>&nbsp;would come up with a clutch two-out hit as a ground-rule double would one hop over the left-field fence and allow the T-Birds to bring home two runners to take their first lead of the game. Following the double, the Cavaliers would elect to go to the bullpen as a pitching change would lead to an inning-ending strikeout to get JCCC out of trouble. Facing the minimum in the bottom of the third, Cloud County would look to add to their one-run lead in the top of the fourth as a two-out double by Ponce would put another runner in scoring position before being stranded on a groundout. Issuing a leadoff walk, the T-Birds would see the free pass lead to a run after a sacrifice bunt and two-out RBI single tie the game at three all heading into the fifth. Cloud County would be held scoreless again in the fifth as a one-two-three inning would not see a ball leave the infield with the Cavaliers starting to build momentum. Erasing a leadoff single on a pick-off play, Mezzomo would then issue a one-out single that would be followed by a double to put runners on the corners for the Cavaliers. Things would become problematic in the next at-bat as Collin Brueggemann would turn on a pitch from Mezzomo that would clear the left-field fence and end up in the Johnson County bullpen as a three-run home run would give JCCC the lead at 6-3. Battling back from the home run, Mezzomo would induce an infield popup before getting a strikeout to end the inning as the damage would be limited to just the three runs. Trying to find another response to the offensive output of Johnson County, Cloud County would get two walks to start the top of the sixth, but see a groundout be followed by a strikeout and fly out to center field that would strand a pair of runners in scoring position. Having been able to get out of the jam in the top of the inning, the Cavaliers would add to their lead in the bottom of the inning as two more costly errors by the T-Birds would help set up a three-run inning to turn things into a 9-3 contest. With things beginning to get into the latter stages of the game, CCCC would get a one-out solo home run from Poole in the top of the seventh to go along with a solo home run from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/9e42c996-273c-452c-a072-ab1a087b6bfa?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Kolden Howerton</a>&nbsp;with two outs in the inning to get two runs back and move back within four at 9-5. Turning to reliever&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/4aa1d509-61c9-4781-afc8-f18de6d865a0?elinkdata=27404" target="_blank">Conner Woods</a>&nbsp;out of the bullpen after seeing the Winfield, Kansas native start Tuesday's contest, Johnson County would be retired in order with two ground outs and a flyout keeping the deficit at four. The Cavaliers would respond by making a move to the bullpen of their own, working around a leadoff walk drawn by Riley to keep the T-Birds off the scoreboard in what would prove to be a pivotal moment for CCCC. Needing to keep the deficit where it was at to try and give themselves a chance in the ninth, Things would fall apart for Cloud County in the bottom of the eighth as a hit batter and walk to start the inning would set up a three-run home run to put JCCC one run away from ending the game. After a pair of ground outs, Johnson County would extend the inning with an infield single before their third home run of the game would end the season for the T-Birds while giving the Cavaliers a 2-1 season series victory over Cloud County. CCCC's five runs would come on seven hits with seven different players recording one hit each. Pierson would be the only T-Bird to drive in more than one run as seven strikeouts would offset four walks and two hit batters for Cloud County with seven runners winding up stranded to end innings. A seven-strikeout performance from Mezzomo on the mound would be hindered by allowing six runs (four earned) on eight hits and three walks as defensive miscues would be one of the bigger stories for the T-Birds. In total, Cloud County would commit six errors which would lead to three unearned runs for Johnson County.

T-Bird baseball's season ends with loss to Johnson County

The Southeast of Saline track and field teams qualified 17 athletes for this year’s state meet as the boys rolled to back-to-back regional victories in Phillipsburg.

Despite a loaded field on both sides, the Trojans won 11 events, taking a spot on the podium in nine more.

On the boy’s side, Dylan Sprecker and Chase Poague showed out once again as Poague swept the 110 and 300m hurdles and Sprecker dominated the 800, 1600, and 3200.

Sprecker also helped the Trojans to a win in the 4x400m relay while Poague added a silver medal in the 100m dash, finishing second only to teammate Michael Murray.

Murray went on to take the top spot in the 200m dash as well, and with the speedster back at full strength, SES looks formidable in the sprints going into state.

Nakari Morrical-Palmer rounded out the winners on the boy's side placing first in the 400 and finishing second to Murray in the 200 for a second 1-2 Trojan finish.

Tate Nurnberg posted another strong performance collecting silver in the high and triple jumps while Damion Jackson took the second step in the 1600 for a 1-2 finish with Sprecker.

Levi Allen qualified for state in both the 3200 and 1600 finishing third and fourth respectively, with Cayden Walker rounding out the individual qualifiers coming home fourth in the 3200.

After the first place finish Drake Augustine, Nakari Morrical-Palmer and Omar Calzada will join Sprecker one final time on the state 4x400m relay team.

On the girl’s side, the Lady Trojans qualified seven athletes for state, anchored by two first-place finishes for Jentrie Alderson in the 1600 and 3200.

Ashley Prochazka became a double-qualifier as well, taking third in the 3200 and fourth in the 1600, with Abby Commerford qualifying in the 3200 as well.

Finally, Southeast was able to qualify their 4x800 meter relay team in a fourth-place finish to send four more Lady Trojans to state.

This year’s state meet will take place from May 27-28 at Cessna Stadium in Wichita as the Southeast of Saline boys’ team looks for a second consecutive state title next week.

For coverage of both teams at state stay tuned to the Salina Post.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="Coverage of SES track and field is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES track and field is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>The Southeast of Saline track and field teams qualified 17 athletes for this year’s state meet as the boys rolled to back-to-back regional victories in Phillipsburg.Despite a loaded field on both sides, the Trojans won 11 events, taking a spot on the podium in nine more.On the boy’s side, Dylan Sprecker and Chase Poague showed out once again as Poague swept the 110 and 300m hurdles and Sprecker dominated the 800, 1600, and 3200.Sprecker also helped the Trojans to a win in the 4x400m relay while Poague added a silver medal in the 100m dash, finishing second only to teammate Michael Murray.Murray went on to take the top spot in the 200m dash as well, and with the speedster back at full strength, SES looks formidable in the sprints going into state.Nakari Morrical-Palmer rounded out the winners on the boy's side placing first in the 400 and finishing second to Murray in the 200 for a second 1-2 Trojan finish.Tate Nurnberg posted another strong performance collecting silver in the high and triple jumps while Damion Jackson took the second step in the 1600 for a 1-2 finish with Sprecker.Levi Allen qualified for state in both the 3200 and 1600 finishing third and fourth respectively, with Cayden Walker rounding out the individual qualifiers coming home fourth in the 3200.After the first place finish Drake Augustine, Nakari Morrical-Palmer and Omar Calzada will join Sprecker one final time on the state 4x400m relay team.On the girl’s side, the Lady Trojans qualified seven athletes for state, anchored by two first-place finishes for Jentrie Alderson in the 1600 and 3200.Ashley Prochazka became a double-qualifier as well, taking third in the 3200 and fourth in the 1600, with Abby Commerford qualifying in the 3200 as well.Finally, Southeast was able to qualify their 4x800 meter relay team in a fourth-place finish to send four more Lady Trojans to state.This year’s state meet will take place from May 27-28 at Cessna Stadium in Wichita as the Southeast of Saline boys’ team looks for a second consecutive state title next week.For coverage of both teams at state stay tuned to the Salina Post.

Trojans track rolls through regionals, qualifies 17 athletes for state

HUTCHINSON - National Championship performances from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/107d1e8a-fb16-46aa-9040-69cd8b518429?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Mohamed Ahmed</a>&nbsp;in the hammer throw and the 4x800 meter relay team consisting of&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/d4123631-9819-49dd-88a3-34c58a35f38e?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Ludjenie Mondesir</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6384e2b9-81dc-459a-918d-95f650c8fa55?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Passion Crews</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fb85997a-486b-409c-83f3-045ba8c28ed0?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Abigail Fisher</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/52b9dba6-e45c-4e30-b7b5-5fbb65de8de1?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Pamela Milano</a>&nbsp;would highlight day one of the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson on Thursday. Five total events would be scored on Thursday out of the 22 total events throughout the weekend, with the Cloud County women holding down second place after scoring 27 total points while the T-Bird men sit in fourth after day one with a total of 19 points. Entering the weekend with the top overall mark in the NJCAA and a large lead over the rest of the field, Ahmed would cap off his freshman campaign by recording a mark of 62.78 meters (205 ft. - 11 in.) to best the field of 18 throwers by over 20 feet. CCCC would also get a fourth-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ff063cac-9fd8-42f0-8e7f-dc340a50b2f2?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Timothy Nyinguan</a>&nbsp;in the long jump (7.47 meters, 24 ft. - 6.25 in.) and eighth-place finish from Brad Davies-Pughe (7.28 meters, 23 ft. - 10.75 in.) to go along with a sixth-place finish from the 4x800 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6f5701e7-916f-4e93-90c0-5c1d6b0be4b6?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Michael Iyali</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6bf7707b-ef9d-4fcf-bb54-4895545e4a06?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Quwayne Reid</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/580de1af-416e-4f82-a399-17c56224df30?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Rylan Cheney</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/1a373867-d6a3-4a17-bb16-ca39c8a5fa46?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Hassan Abidi</a>) to close out day one scoring for the T-Bird men. In the preliminary races,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e2a1c146-8f50-4679-a9f6-c4c71a8c9f60?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Ephraim Lerkin</a>&nbsp;would post a time of 52.88 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles to qualify for Saturday's final by posting the seventh-fastest time among a 30-runner field. As for the Cloud County women, the National Title performance in the 4x800 meter relay (9:22.08) would be one of three results for CCCC that would see either first or second-place finishes for the T-Birds. National Runner-up performances would come from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/f4d56a2d-41ab-482d-8787-dc097659ce08?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Maggie Armstrong</a>&nbsp;in the pole vault (3.16 meters, 10 ft. - 4.25 in.) while&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/a3666938-73fa-4016-a788-5fb04cf9a420?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Lucy Ndungu</a>&nbsp;would make a big final lap move in the 10,000 meters to run a time of 38:44.75 and take second in her first event of the weekend. The final scoring for the T-Birds would come in the pole vault with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/edc9b069-1254-40ee-858d-d013615ec799?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Mia Manley</a>&nbsp;clearing 3.01 meters (9 ft. - 10.5 in.) to take sixth overall to give Cloud County two top-eight finishers in the event. As for preliminary races, freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8e64ac2b-30bc-4831-9286-e09c4438b37c?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vimbayi Maisvorewa</a>&nbsp;would put on another show in the 400 meters by running the fastest qualifying time at 52.82 seconds which would set a new Zimbabwe National Record before going on to anchor the 4x100 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8e106450-0e4f-4781-a15d-59d18870f891?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Miracle Thompson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ea0bd93b-d566-4817-8814-d66c5c1d31ab?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Leonie Beu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/cf209687-1e2a-4d4a-8d40-4490bc17f545?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Isila Apkup</a>, and Maisvorewa) to break the school record with a time of 45.55 seconds and qualify in fourth for Saturday's finals. Friday action will see the completion of the multi-events with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8674509c-26fd-4985-8557-c0afdf08ba00?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vanessa Mercera</a>&nbsp;competing in the heptathlon while&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/b420a475-9a08-4b01-9594-a74cfef42c29?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Andrew Betton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/f6d18c18-54ee-4a3a-90d7-de89ca3a328c?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Anson Moses</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c4013cab-a3dd-4a11-a2cb-fcf933dda635?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Deandre Elliot</a>&nbsp;compete in the decathlon. Other events where CCCC will look to score points on Friday will be the men's shot put (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/dc0d9654-23f7-423e-885a-66ba28a92a41?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vincent Ugwoke</a>) and the 3,000-meter steeplechase (Mondesir,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/46e7cdb4-ae4d-4ed1-bd00-f404b27f69e3?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Melody Ochana</a>) with other preliminary races also taking place throughout the day.

Cloud County AthleticsHUTCHINSON - National Championship performances from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/107d1e8a-fb16-46aa-9040-69cd8b518429?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Mohamed Ahmed</a>&nbsp;in the hammer throw and the 4x800 meter relay team consisting of&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/d4123631-9819-49dd-88a3-34c58a35f38e?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Ludjenie Mondesir</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6384e2b9-81dc-459a-918d-95f650c8fa55?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Passion Crews</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/fb85997a-486b-409c-83f3-045ba8c28ed0?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Abigail Fisher</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/52b9dba6-e45c-4e30-b7b5-5fbb65de8de1?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Pamela Milano</a>&nbsp;would highlight day one of the 2022 NJCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships at Gowans Stadium in Hutchinson on Thursday. Five total events would be scored on Thursday out of the 22 total events throughout the weekend, with the Cloud County women holding down second place after scoring 27 total points while the T-Bird men sit in fourth after day one with a total of 19 points. Entering the weekend with the top overall mark in the NJCAA and a large lead over the rest of the field, Ahmed would cap off his freshman campaign by recording a mark of 62.78 meters (205 ft. - 11 in.) to best the field of 18 throwers by over 20 feet. CCCC would also get a fourth-place finish from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ff063cac-9fd8-42f0-8e7f-dc340a50b2f2?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Timothy Nyinguan</a>&nbsp;in the long jump (7.47 meters, 24 ft. - 6.25 in.) and eighth-place finish from Brad Davies-Pughe (7.28 meters, 23 ft. - 10.75 in.) to go along with a sixth-place finish from the 4x800 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6f5701e7-916f-4e93-90c0-5c1d6b0be4b6?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Michael Iyali</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/6bf7707b-ef9d-4fcf-bb54-4895545e4a06?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Quwayne Reid</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/580de1af-416e-4f82-a399-17c56224df30?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Rylan Cheney</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/1a373867-d6a3-4a17-bb16-ca39c8a5fa46?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Hassan Abidi</a>) to close out day one scoring for the T-Bird men. In the preliminary races,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e2a1c146-8f50-4679-a9f6-c4c71a8c9f60?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Ephraim Lerkin</a>&nbsp;would post a time of 52.88 seconds in the 400-meter hurdles to qualify for Saturday's final by posting the seventh-fastest time among a 30-runner field. As for the Cloud County women, the National Title performance in the 4x800 meter relay (9:22.08) would be one of three results for CCCC that would see either first or second-place finishes for the T-Birds. National Runner-up performances would come from&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/f4d56a2d-41ab-482d-8787-dc097659ce08?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Maggie Armstrong</a>&nbsp;in the pole vault (3.16 meters, 10 ft. - 4.25 in.) while&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/a3666938-73fa-4016-a788-5fb04cf9a420?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Lucy Ndungu</a>&nbsp;would make a big final lap move in the 10,000 meters to run a time of 38:44.75 and take second in her first event of the weekend. The final scoring for the T-Birds would come in the pole vault with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/edc9b069-1254-40ee-858d-d013615ec799?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Mia Manley</a>&nbsp;clearing 3.01 meters (9 ft. - 10.5 in.) to take sixth overall to give Cloud County two top-eight finishers in the event. As for preliminary races, freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8e64ac2b-30bc-4831-9286-e09c4438b37c?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vimbayi Maisvorewa</a>&nbsp;would put on another show in the 400 meters by running the fastest qualifying time at 52.82 seconds which would set a new Zimbabwe National Record before going on to anchor the 4x100 meter relay team (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8e106450-0e4f-4781-a15d-59d18870f891?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Miracle Thompson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ea0bd93b-d566-4817-8814-d66c5c1d31ab?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Leonie Beu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/cf209687-1e2a-4d4a-8d40-4490bc17f545?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Isila Apkup</a>, and Maisvorewa) to break the school record with a time of 45.55 seconds and qualify in fourth for Saturday's finals. Friday action will see the completion of the multi-events with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/8674509c-26fd-4985-8557-c0afdf08ba00?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vanessa Mercera</a>&nbsp;competing in the heptathlon while&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/b420a475-9a08-4b01-9594-a74cfef42c29?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Andrew Betton</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/f6d18c18-54ee-4a3a-90d7-de89ca3a328c?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Anson Moses</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/c4013cab-a3dd-4a11-a2cb-fcf933dda635?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Deandre Elliot</a>&nbsp;compete in the decathlon. Other events where CCCC will look to score points on Friday will be the men's shot put (<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/dc0d9654-23f7-423e-885a-66ba28a92a41?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Vincent Ugwoke</a>) and the 3,000-meter steeplechase (Mondesir,&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/46e7cdb4-ae4d-4ed1-bd00-f404b27f69e3?elinkdata=27300" target="_blank">Melody Ochana</a>) with other preliminary races also taking place throughout the day.

T-Birds: Two national champions highlight Day 1 of NJCAA meet

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Robert homered and drove in four runs as the Chicago White Sox rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-4 to win the five-game series. 

Robert delivered a pair of RBI singles before hitting a two-run homer into the left-field stands in the eighth. His sixth home run of the season capped Chicago's sixth come-from-behind win. 

Pinch-hitter Adam Engel gave the White Sox their first lead with an RBI single in the seventh off Gabe Speier that broke a 4-all tie. Tim Anderson had two hits, two walks and two RBIs, recording his 10th multi-hit outing in his last 18 games for the White Sox. 

Chicago took three of five from the Royals.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Luis Robert homered and drove in four runs as the Chicago White Sox rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-4 to win the five-game series. Robert delivered a pair of RBI singles before hitting a two-run homer into the left-field stands in the eighth. His sixth home run of the season capped Chicago's sixth come-from-behind win. Pinch-hitter Adam Engel gave the White Sox their first lead with an RBI single in the seventh off Gabe Speier that broke a 4-all tie. Tim Anderson had two hits, two walks and two RBIs, recording his 10th multi-hit outing in his last 18 games for the White Sox. Chicago took three of five from the Royals.

Robert homers, drives in 4 as White Sox beat Royals 7-4

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;An exclusive fraternity of K-State Football greats will grow by six members later this year, as K-State Athletics has announced the Ring of Honor Class of 2022.

The class, which will be officially inducted the weekend of the season opener against South Dakota, includes linebacker&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2011-12), running back&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1967-68), defensive end&nbsp;Darren Howard&nbsp;(1996-99), quarterback&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;(2009-12), wide receiver&nbsp;Tyler Lockett&nbsp;(2011-14) and quarterback&nbsp;Ell Roberson&nbsp;(2000-03).

“Each of these men hold a special place in the history of our program, and it will be an honor to be a part of their induction into our Ring of Honor,” head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;said. “Their hard work and achievements on the field are well-documented, and we are excited to welcome them back to Manhattan for a special induction weekend.”

The Class of 2022 accumulated 31 total All-America citations during their careers, including 11 first-team honors. They have combined to reside in the top 10 of K-State game, single-season or career records on 209 occasions, which includes 48 total school records. The group also includes four Big 12 Champions with Roberson leading the Wildcats to a 35-7 win over No. 1 Oklahoma in the 2003 Big 12 Championship game, while Arthur Brown, Klein and Lockett were members of the 2012 Big 12 Championship team.

“As with past classes, I am truly honored to have coached five of these special young men who continue to represent Kansas State University in a special manner,”&nbsp;Bill Snyder&nbsp;said. “They are men of character, great leaders, talented football players and great representatives of their highly successful football program and the 16 Goals for Success.”

K-State’s Ring of Honor will now include 20 individuals, and this is the fourth class since the establishment of the honor in 2002, joining the 2008 and 2015 classes. Recognition into the Ring of Honor includes a permanent display of each individual’s name on the façade of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, the ring display just inside Gate B on the West Stadium Center concourse and inside the main lobby of the Vanier Family Football Complex.

“This is a tremendous group of players and young men,” Athletics Director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “I would like to thank Coach Snyder and Coach Klieman for their involvement in the selection of these new inductees, but more importantly, each individual for all they have done for Kansas State football, our athletics program and our university. It will be a memorable weekend to celebrate their accomplishments.”

The six-member Class of 2022 will join 2002 honorees&nbsp;Lynn Dickey&nbsp;(QB – 1968-70),&nbsp;Steve Grogan&nbsp;(QB – 1972-74),&nbsp;Jaime Mendez&nbsp;(DB – 1990-93),&nbsp;Sean Snyder&nbsp;(P – 1991-92),&nbsp;Gary Spani&nbsp;(LB – 1974-77) and&nbsp;Veryl Switzer&nbsp;(RB – 1951-53); Class of 2008 members&nbsp;David Allen&nbsp;(RB/PR – 1997-2000),&nbsp;Martin Gramatica&nbsp;(PK – 1994-98),&nbsp;Terence Newman&nbsp;(DB – 1999-2002) and&nbsp;Mark Simoneau&nbsp;(LB – 1996-99); and Class of 2015 inductees&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;(QB – 1997-98),&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;(WR – 2005-07),&nbsp;Clarence Scott&nbsp;(DB – 1968-70) and&nbsp;Darren Sproles&nbsp;(RB – 2000-04).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652979436692.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;An exclusive fraternity of K-State Football greats will grow by six members later this year, as K-State Athletics has announced the Ring of Honor Class of 2022.The class, which will be officially inducted the weekend of the season opener against South Dakota, includes linebacker&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2011-12), running back&nbsp;Larry Brown&nbsp;(1967-68), defensive end&nbsp;Darren Howard&nbsp;(1996-99), quarterback&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;(2009-12), wide receiver&nbsp;Tyler Lockett&nbsp;(2011-14) and quarterback&nbsp;Ell Roberson&nbsp;(2000-03).“Each of these men hold a special place in the history of our program, and it will be an honor to be a part of their induction into our Ring of Honor,” head coach&nbsp;Chris Klieman&nbsp;said. “Their hard work and achievements on the field are well-documented, and we are excited to welcome them back to Manhattan for a special induction weekend.”The Class of 2022 accumulated 31 total All-America citations during their careers, including 11 first-team honors. They have combined to reside in the top 10 of K-State game, single-season or career records on 209 occasions, which includes 48 total school records. The group also includes four Big 12 Champions with Roberson leading the Wildcats to a 35-7 win over No. 1 Oklahoma in the 2003 Big 12 Championship game, while Arthur Brown, Klein and Lockett were members of the 2012 Big 12 Championship team.“As with past classes, I am truly honored to have coached five of these special young men who continue to represent Kansas State University in a special manner,”&nbsp;Bill Snyder&nbsp;said. “They are men of character, great leaders, talented football players and great representatives of their highly successful football program and the 16 Goals for Success.”K-State’s Ring of Honor will now include 20 individuals, and this is the fourth class since the establishment of the honor in 2002, joining the 2008 and 2015 classes. Recognition into the Ring of Honor includes a permanent display of each individual’s name on the façade of Bill Snyder Family Stadium, the ring display just inside Gate B on the West Stadium Center concourse and inside the main lobby of the Vanier Family Football Complex.“This is a tremendous group of players and young men,” Athletics Director&nbsp;Gene Taylor&nbsp;said. “I would like to thank Coach Snyder and Coach Klieman for their involvement in the selection of these new inductees, but more importantly, each individual for all they have done for Kansas State football, our athletics program and our university. It will be a memorable weekend to celebrate their accomplishments.”The six-member Class of 2022 will join 2002 honorees&nbsp;Lynn Dickey&nbsp;(QB – 1968-70),&nbsp;Steve Grogan&nbsp;(QB – 1972-74),&nbsp;Jaime Mendez&nbsp;(DB – 1990-93),&nbsp;Sean Snyder&nbsp;(P – 1991-92),&nbsp;Gary Spani&nbsp;(LB – 1974-77) and&nbsp;Veryl Switzer&nbsp;(RB – 1951-53); Class of 2008 members&nbsp;David Allen&nbsp;(RB/PR – 1997-2000),&nbsp;Martin Gramatica&nbsp;(PK – 1994-98),&nbsp;Terence Newman&nbsp;(DB – 1999-2002) and&nbsp;Mark Simoneau&nbsp;(LB – 1996-99); and Class of 2015 inductees&nbsp;Michael Bishop&nbsp;(QB – 1997-98),&nbsp;Jordy Nelson&nbsp;(WR – 2005-07),&nbsp;Clarence Scott&nbsp;(DB – 1968-70) and&nbsp;Darren Sproles&nbsp;(RB – 2000-04).

K-State: Six-member Ring of Honor Class of 2022

WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;Spencer Steer delivered an eleventh inning pinch Hit walk off home run giving the Wichita Wind Surge &nbsp;a 7-6 win over the Springfield Cardinals.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Wichita struck first, scoring two runs in the first inning as Andrew Bechtold singled that scored Austin Martin and Michael Helman followed by grounding out, allowing Alex Isola to advance home to take a 2-0 lead.

Louie Varland took the hill for the Surge and pitched six innings, allowing five hits and two earned runs, and tallied eight strikeouts. Jordan Walker hit a two-run homer in the fourth inning to tie the game 2-2.

Matt Wallner hit a two-run RBI single that scored Chris Williams and Kennie Taylor to give the Surge a 4-2 lead in the sixth inning. Wallner finished the night going two for three with a walk and two RBIs.

Springfield scored two runs in the top of the ninth as Alex Scherff hit one batter and walked another with the bases loaded to tie the game 4-4. Ben Gross took the mound for the Surge in the eleventh inning and allowed two runs to score that would go on to give Springfield a 6-4 advantage. Spencer Steer hit a three-run homer to end the game to give Wichita a 7-6 victory.

Notes: Andrew Bechtold and Michael Helman both extend their hit streaks to nine games… The pinch hit home run is the first ever for the Wind Surge.&nbsp; The Surge improve to 4-1 in extra innings.&nbsp; The 11 inning game was the most innings Wichita has played.

Coming Up: The Wind Surge will resume action Thursday with first pitch at 7:05 p.m. and gates open at 6 p.m. Simeon Woods-Richardson will take the mound for the Wind Surge and Dalton Roach will be on the hill for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,PAtNxf0oqN6juRXKUNobKdLEKt81WhF2yJhsk4UgWX0a58X8xrFBWgyS1aupn2LfuCDikpfmfpllDLRuWXFXsWMuYRAHJ0y56F1f2bLpJR4,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,wR_knZRJqCHttkhCB6Ca-xwPRESG5P_Ntqx-YL7D4EjWVfYCa1SHkeYQs8HY2dbAHT4bSo-1QZUba7i_80GuAOjrbr3xq7Xstl18ETT8ySA,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652977646931.jpeg" alt="Spencer Steer is greeted by jubilant teammates as he heads for home after hitting an 11th-inning walk-off home run. Photo courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Spencer Steer is greeted by jubilant teammates as he heads for home after hitting an 11th-inning walk-off home run. Photo courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA&nbsp;-&nbsp;Spencer Steer delivered an eleventh inning pinch Hit walk off home run giving the Wichita Wind Surge &nbsp;a 7-6 win over the Springfield Cardinals.&nbsp; &nbsp;Wichita struck first, scoring two runs in the first inning as Andrew Bechtold singled that scored Austin Martin and Michael Helman followed by grounding out, allowing Alex Isola to advance home to take a 2-0 lead.Louie Varland took the hill for the Surge and pitched six innings, allowing five hits and two earned runs, and tallied eight strikeouts. Jordan Walker hit a two-run homer in the fourth inning to tie the game 2-2.Matt Wallner hit a two-run RBI single that scored Chris Williams and Kennie Taylor to give the Surge a 4-2 lead in the sixth inning. Wallner finished the night going two for three with a walk and two RBIs.Springfield scored two runs in the top of the ninth as Alex Scherff hit one batter and walked another with the bases loaded to tie the game 4-4. Ben Gross took the mound for the Surge in the eleventh inning and allowed two runs to score that would go on to give Springfield a 6-4 advantage. Spencer Steer hit a three-run homer to end the game to give Wichita a 7-6 victory.Notes: Andrew Bechtold and Michael Helman both extend their hit streaks to nine games… The pinch hit home run is the first ever for the Wind Surge.&nbsp; The Surge improve to 4-1 in extra innings.&nbsp; The 11 inning game was the most innings Wichita has played.Coming Up: The Wind Surge will resume action Thursday with first pitch at 7:05 p.m. and gates open at 6 p.m. Simeon Woods-Richardson will take the mound for the Wind Surge and Dalton Roach will be on the hill for the Cardinals. Catch the game on&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fMiLB.com&amp;c=E,1,PAtNxf0oqN6juRXKUNobKdLEKt81WhF2yJhsk4UgWX0a58X8xrFBWgyS1aupn2LfuCDikpfmfpllDLRuWXFXsWMuYRAHJ0y56F1f2bLpJR4,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">MiLB.com</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fWindsurge.com&amp;c=E,1,wR_knZRJqCHttkhCB6Ca-xwPRESG5P_Ntqx-YL7D4EjWVfYCa1SHkeYQs8HY2dbAHT4bSo-1QZUba7i_80GuAOjrbr3xq7Xstl18ETT8ySA,&amp;typo=1&amp;ancr_add=1" target="_blank">Windsurge.com</a>.

Steer gets walk off homer in 11th for Wind Surge win

KANSAS CITY,&nbsp;Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (2-3) had a quiet night at the plate as they dropped the second game of the series against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (3-2) by a score of 2-1 Wednesday night.

A pitching duel between Nick Beltzer (0-1) and Kevin McGovern (1-0) kept the game scoreless through the first three innings. The RedHawks broke the tie in the fourth inning when Drew Ward roped a double down the right field line to score Manuel Boscan from second base. Leobaldo Pina immediately followed this up with a double of his own down the left field line to bring in Ward, making the score 2-0.

The Monarchs offense was held at bay until the sixth inning when Darnell Sweeney hit a solo home run over the “home run patio” in left field, cutting the lead in half. Sweeney’s long ball marked back-to-back nights with a home run for the veteran.

Kevin McGovern had an excellent start for the RedHawks. The former Winnipeg Goldeyes’ starter and the all time American Association strikeout leader finished his night allowing one run and three hits, fanning 11 Monarchs through seven innings pitched.

In the eighth inning, the Monarchs offense started to show some life. David Thompson reached on an error made by shortstop Sam Dexter. Casey Gillaspie followed by walking on four straight balls. Darnell Sweeney singled on a hard ground ball off the pitcher loading the bases. However, the Monarchs weren’t able to cash in any runs.

Game three against Fargo-Moorhead is Thursday at 7 p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:30&nbsp;p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

By GABRIEL LOPEZ Kansas City MonarchsKANSAS CITY,&nbsp;Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (2-3) had a quiet night at the plate as they dropped the second game of the series against the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks (3-2) by a score of 2-1 Wednesday night.A pitching duel between Nick Beltzer (0-1) and Kevin McGovern (1-0) kept the game scoreless through the first three innings. The RedHawks broke the tie in the fourth inning when Drew Ward roped a double down the right field line to score Manuel Boscan from second base. Leobaldo Pina immediately followed this up with a double of his own down the left field line to bring in Ward, making the score 2-0.The Monarchs offense was held at bay until the sixth inning when Darnell Sweeney hit a solo home run over the “home run patio” in left field, cutting the lead in half. Sweeney’s long ball marked back-to-back nights with a home run for the veteran.Kevin McGovern had an excellent start for the RedHawks. The former Winnipeg Goldeyes’ starter and the all time American Association strikeout leader finished his night allowing one run and three hits, fanning 11 Monarchs through seven innings pitched.In the eighth inning, the Monarchs offense started to show some life. David Thompson reached on an error made by shortstop Sam Dexter. Casey Gillaspie followed by walking on four straight balls. Darnell Sweeney singled on a hard ground ball off the pitcher loading the bases. However, the Monarchs weren’t able to cash in any runs.Game three against Fargo-Moorhead is Thursday at 7 p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:30&nbsp;p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

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