KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;—&nbsp;In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals tonight announced their revised 60-game schedule for the 2020 regular season.

Opening Day is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. CT on July 24 at Progressive Field vs. the Cleveland Indians, to mark just the second time in the last six seasons in which Kansas City will open on the road. It will be the sixth time in Royals’ history in which they will open on a Friday, and the first since 2012. This will represent the latest Opening Day in Royals history, after the club played its&nbsp;earliest&nbsp;Opening Day last season on March 28. Their 2020 opener will mark the 300th&nbsp;day since the Royals last took the field in a regular season game on Sept. 29, 2019, when they closed out the season with a 5-4 walk-off win vs. Minnesota.

The Royals’ 2020 home opener is now scheduled for 7:05 p.m. CT on July 31 vs. the Chicago White Sox, which will end a streak of 305 days without a regular season game at Kauffman Stadium.

Kansas City will play 60 games in 66 days this season, including 30 games at home and 30 on the road. Forty games (66.7%) will be played within the American League Central division, and the remaining 20 games will be played vs. the National League Central division.

The breakdown includes 10 games each vs. Cleveland, the Chicago White Sox, Detroit and Minnesota. Kansas City will host three games vs. Cleveland, seven games vs. the Chicago White Sox, four games vs. Detroit and six games vs. Minnesota. The Royals will travel for seven games in Cleveland, three games at the Chicago White Sox, six games in Detroit and four games in Minnesota.

The Royals’ 20-game Interleague schedule will feature six games vs. their intrastate rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals, including a three-game set at Busch Stadium from Aug. 24-26 and a three-game set at Kauffman Stadium from Sept. 21-23. They will host Pittsburgh for the first time since 2015, for a three-game series from Sept. 11-13, and will travel to Milwaukee’s Miller Park for the first time since 2018, for a three-game set from Sept. 18-20. The Royals will round out their Interleague schedule with four games each vs. the Reds and Cubs, including two games in Cincinnati from Aug. 11-12, followed by two games vs. the Reds in Kansas City from Aug. 18-19; and a home-and-home set vs. the Cubs, beginning with two games at Wrigley Field from Aug. 3-4, and concluding with two games at Kauffman Stadium from Aug. 5-6.

The Royals will play on just one national holiday this season, when they travel to Cleveland on Labor Day (Sept. 7).

Kansas City’s home games will feature weeknight first pitch times at 7:05 p.m. CT. Saturday home games will begin at 6:05 p.m. CT and Sunday home games will start at 1:05 p.m. The only two exceptions are on Aug. 6, when the Royals will host the Chicago Cubs beginning at 6:15 p.m. CT, and on the final day of the regular season, Sept. 27, when the Royals will host Detroit beginning at 2:05 p.m. CT.

The Royals will host two season-high seven-game homestands, from Aug. 31-Sept. 6 vs. Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox, and to close out the regular season from Sept. 21-27 vs. St. Louis and Detroit. Kansas City will open the schedule with a season-long seven-game road trip from July 24-30 at Cleveland and Detroit.&nbsp;The Royals will have two 17-day stretches without an off day, from July 24-Aug. 9 and Aug. 28-Sept. 13. They are scheduled for four off days in August (10th, 13th, 20th&nbsp;and 27th) and two in September (14th&nbsp;and 17th).

The game dates and times are subject to change.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;—&nbsp;In conjunction with Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals tonight announced their revised 60-game schedule for the 2020 regular season.Opening Day is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. CT on July 24 at Progressive Field vs. the Cleveland Indians, to mark just the second time in the last six seasons in which Kansas City will open on the road. It will be the sixth time in Royals’ history in which they will open on a Friday, and the first since 2012. This will represent the latest Opening Day in Royals history, after the club played its&nbsp;earliest&nbsp;Opening Day last season on March 28. Their 2020 opener will mark the 300th&nbsp;day since the Royals last took the field in a regular season game on Sept. 29, 2019, when they closed out the season with a 5-4 walk-off win vs. Minnesota.The Royals’ 2020 home opener is now scheduled for 7:05 p.m. CT on July 31 vs. the Chicago White Sox, which will end a streak of 305 days without a regular season game at Kauffman Stadium.Kansas City will play 60 games in 66 days this season, including 30 games at home and 30 on the road. Forty games (66.7%) will be played within the American League Central division, and the remaining 20 games will be played vs. the National League Central division.The breakdown includes 10 games each vs. Cleveland, the Chicago White Sox, Detroit and Minnesota. Kansas City will host three games vs. Cleveland, seven games vs. the Chicago White Sox, four games vs. Detroit and six games vs. Minnesota. The Royals will travel for seven games in Cleveland, three games at the Chicago White Sox, six games in Detroit and four games in Minnesota.The Royals’ 20-game Interleague schedule will feature six games vs. their intrastate rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals, including a three-game set at Busch Stadium from Aug. 24-26 and a three-game set at Kauffman Stadium from Sept. 21-23. They will host Pittsburgh for the first time since 2015, for a three-game series from Sept. 11-13, and will travel to Milwaukee’s Miller Park for the first time since 2018, for a three-game set from Sept. 18-20. The Royals will round out their Interleague schedule with four games each vs. the Reds and Cubs, including two games in Cincinnati from Aug. 11-12, followed by two games vs. the Reds in Kansas City from Aug. 18-19; and a home-and-home set vs. the Cubs, beginning with two games at Wrigley Field from Aug. 3-4, and concluding with two games at Kauffman Stadium from Aug. 5-6.The Royals will play on just one national holiday this season, when they travel to Cleveland on Labor Day (Sept. 7).Kansas City’s home games will feature weeknight first pitch times at 7:05 p.m. CT. Saturday home games will begin at 6:05 p.m. CT and Sunday home games will start at 1:05 p.m. The only two exceptions are on Aug. 6, when the Royals will host the Chicago Cubs beginning at 6:15 p.m. CT, and on the final day of the regular season, Sept. 27, when the Royals will host Detroit beginning at 2:05 p.m. CT.The Royals will host two season-high seven-game homestands, from Aug. 31-Sept. 6 vs. Cleveland and the Chicago White Sox, and to close out the regular season from Sept. 21-27 vs. St. Louis and Detroit. Kansas City will open the schedule with a season-long seven-game road trip from July 24-30 at Cleveland and Detroit.&nbsp;The Royals will have two 17-day stretches without an off day, from July 24-Aug. 9 and Aug. 28-Sept. 13. They are scheduled for four off days in August (10th, 13th, 20th&nbsp;and 27th) and two in September (14th&nbsp;and 17th).The game dates and times are subject to change.&nbsp;

Royals announce revised 2020 regular season schedule

UPDATE: ESPN is now reporting that Mahomes' new 10-year contract extension is worth up to $503 million, making it the largest contract in pro sports history.

UPDATE: The Kansas City Chiefs have officially announced the signing of quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a 10-year contract extension. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have reached a deal on a 1-year contract extension, ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting today.

Schefter reported that league sources have told him the contract extension is worth $450 million, and barring accident or trade, will keep the star quarterback with the team through the 2031 season. The contract also includes a $140 million injury guarantee, a source told Schefter. 

UPDATE: ESPN is now reporting that Mahomes' new 10-year contract extension is worth up to $503 million, making it the largest contract in pro sports history.UPDATE: The Kansas City Chiefs have officially announced the signing of quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a 10-year contract extension. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fposts%2F10158526601933373&width=500" width="500" height="448" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have reached a deal on a 1-year contract extension, ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting today.Schefter reported that league sources have told him the contract extension is worth $450 million, and barring accident or trade, will keep the star quarterback with the team through the 2031 season. The contract also includes a $140 million injury guarantee, a source told Schefter.

UPDATE: Chiefs make it official, sign Mahomes to 10-year extension

LAWRENCE – The Big 12 Conference announced the 2019-20 Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team on Wednesday, with a total of 856 student-athletes earning the distinction. Kansas had 73 student-athletes on the list, and 13 of the Jayhawks’ recipients earned perfect 4.0 grade point averages in the past year.

Danielle Brunig (rowing), Meghan Lemons (rowing), Abby Monroe (rowing), Ava Winkels (rowing), Ebba Costow (soccer), Ellie Prybylski (soccer), Mackenzie Bravence (swimming &amp; diving), Erin Downey (swimming &amp; diving), Alice Boasso (track &amp; field), Addison Coppinger (track &amp; field), Matt Harding (track &amp; field), Sam Hubert (track &amp; field) and Riley Foltz (volleyball) were KU’s 13 student-athletes on the list of 107 overall who posted perfect 4.0 GPAs.

Nominated by each institution’s director of student-athlete support services, student-athletes on the Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team must be new, first-time/incoming freshmen that have completed 24 semester hours of non-remedial coursework and achieved a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00.

The Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team was introduced in the 2012-13 academic year.

The track &amp; field/cross country team led the way for the Jayhawks with 16 honorees, followed by rowing with 12, football with eight, soccer tabbed seven, swimming &amp; diving and softball notched five apiece, baseball and men’s golf tallied four, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and volleyball added three apiece, tennis added two, and women’s golf earned one.

--<a href="http://kuathletics.com">kuathletics.com</a>--

LAWRENCE – The Big 12 Conference announced the 2019-20 Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team on Wednesday, with a total of 856 student-athletes earning the distinction. Kansas had 73 student-athletes on the list, and 13 of the Jayhawks’ recipients earned perfect 4.0 grade point averages in the past year.Danielle Brunig (rowing), Meghan Lemons (rowing), Abby Monroe (rowing), Ava Winkels (rowing), Ebba Costow (soccer), Ellie Prybylski (soccer), Mackenzie Bravence (swimming &amp; diving), Erin Downey (swimming &amp; diving), Alice Boasso (track &amp; field), Addison Coppinger (track &amp; field), Matt Harding (track &amp; field), Sam Hubert (track &amp; field) and Riley Foltz (volleyball) were KU’s 13 student-athletes on the list of 107 overall who posted perfect 4.0 GPAs.Nominated by each institution’s director of student-athlete support services, student-athletes on the Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team must be new, first-time/incoming freshmen that have completed 24 semester hours of non-remedial coursework and achieved a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00.The Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team was introduced in the 2012-13 academic year.The track &amp; field/cross country team led the way for the Jayhawks with 16 honorees, followed by rowing with 12, football with eight, soccer tabbed seven, swimming &amp; diving and softball notched five apiece, baseball and men’s golf tallied four, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and volleyball added three apiece, tennis added two, and women’s golf earned one.--<a href="http://kuathletics.com">kuathletics.com</a>--

73 KU student-athletes named to Academic All-Big 12 Rookie Team

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals star catcher, Salvador Perez, asymptomatic but has tested positive for COVID-19. From the Kansas City Royals Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals star catcher, Salvador Perez, asymptomatic but has tested positive for COVID-19. From the Kansas City Royals Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F194184105356670%2F&show_text=1&width=476" width="476" height="568" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Royals' Perez tests positive for COVID-19

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Kansas football voluntary workouts have been suspended at this time due to an increase in positive COVID-19 tests within the program.&nbsp;

Due to the positives within our own program and the increased cases in our region including our student-athletes' home communities, we believe all football student-athletes and staff should self-quarantine for 14-days, per KDHE requirements and CDC guidelines.

Those student-athletes who are currently in isolation or quarantine will continue on their timetable of quarantine or isolation. At the conclusion of the overall 14-day self-quarantine, all student-athletes and staff will be retested to determine whether conditioning activities will resume at that time.

Student-athletes may self-quarantine at their current housing location – whether on campus or at home if that’s where they are currently for the holiday weekend.

Statement from Director of Athletics Jeff Long

“After the increase in positive COVID-19 tests within our football program, our medical team at Kansas Team Health has recommended discontinuing voluntary workouts immediately. Our priority remains to keep our student-athletes safe and healthy, especially during this pandemic, and will follow the recommendations of our medical professionals.

We will only resume our preparations after the 14-day quarantine is complete and our student-athletes and staff have bene tested for the virus prior to participating in football activities. In the meantime, we continue to educate our student-athletes, as well as coaches and staff, on the importance of following the policies and procedures and recommendations from our Kansas Team Health physicians and the CDC.”

Statement from Head Coach Les Miles

“When we welcomed our young men back to campus a couple of weeks ago for voluntary workouts, even with the policies and procedures in place to try and protect them from becoming infected with the virus, events outside of our control has made the decision to pause these workouts necessary. Our trainers and doctors will remain in daily contact with each of the student-athletes that tested positive to support them and what we hope will involve only minor symptoms if any. We will follow medical recommendations on returning to activities.”

45 student-athletes currently in quarantine (all sports)

All other sports with student-athletes that have returned to campus will continue their voluntary workouts at this time. Should positive tests increase, we will follow recommendations from Kansas Team Health and suspend additional sports activities as needed.

--<a href="https://kuathletics.com/" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com</a>--

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Kansas football voluntary workouts have been suspended at this time due to an increase in positive COVID-19 tests within the program.&nbsp;Due to the positives within our own program and the increased cases in our region including our student-athletes' home communities, we believe all football student-athletes and staff should self-quarantine for 14-days, per KDHE requirements and CDC guidelines.Those student-athletes who are currently in isolation or quarantine will continue on their timetable of quarantine or isolation. At the conclusion of the overall 14-day self-quarantine, all student-athletes and staff will be retested to determine whether conditioning activities will resume at that time.Student-athletes may self-quarantine at their current housing location – whether on campus or at home if that’s where they are currently for the holiday weekend.Statement from Director of Athletics Jeff Long“After the increase in positive COVID-19 tests within our football program, our medical team at Kansas Team Health has recommended discontinuing voluntary workouts immediately. Our priority remains to keep our student-athletes safe and healthy, especially during this pandemic, and will follow the recommendations of our medical professionals.We will only resume our preparations after the 14-day quarantine is complete and our student-athletes and staff have bene tested for the virus prior to participating in football activities. In the meantime, we continue to educate our student-athletes, as well as coaches and staff, on the importance of following the policies and procedures and recommendations from our Kansas Team Health physicians and the CDC.”Statement from Head Coach Les Miles“When we welcomed our young men back to campus a couple of weeks ago for voluntary workouts, even with the policies and procedures in place to try and protect them from becoming infected with the virus, events outside of our control has made the decision to pause these workouts necessary. Our trainers and doctors will remain in daily contact with each of the student-athletes that tested positive to support them and what we hope will involve only minor symptoms if any. We will follow medical recommendations on returning to activities.”Testing results update164 student-athletes tested. 16 total positives. 12 football. 4 other sports. 45 student-athletes currently in quarantine (all sports)All other sports with student-athletes that have returned to campus will continue their voluntary workouts at this time. Should positive tests increase, we will follow recommendations from Kansas Team Health and suspend additional sports activities as needed.--<a href="https://kuathletics.com/" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com</a>--

KU football voluntary workouts suspended

By BETH HARRIS AP Sports Writer

LOS ANGELES — Dodger Stadium's 40-year wait to host the All-Star Game is going to last even longer. 

The game scheduled for July 14 has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and Dodger Stadium was awarded the 2022 Midsummer Classic. The 2021 game is set for Atlanta's Truist Park, home of the Braves since 2017. 

The pandemic had already delayed opening day from March 26 to July 23 or 24. 

This will be the first time since 1945 that no game will be held. Travel restrictions because of World War II kept the game scheduled for Boston's Fenway Park from taking place that year. It was pushed back to the next season.&nbsp;

By BETH HARRIS AP Sports WriterLOS ANGELES — Dodger Stadium's 40-year wait to host the All-Star Game is going to last even longer. The game scheduled for July 14 has been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic, and Dodger Stadium was awarded the 2022 Midsummer Classic. The 2021 game is set for Atlanta's Truist Park, home of the Braves since 2017. The pandemic had already delayed opening day from March 26 to July 23 or 24. This will be the first time since 1945 that no game will be held. Travel restrictions because of World War II kept the game scheduled for Boston's Fenway Park from taking place that year. It was pushed back to the next season.&nbsp;

MLB cancels All-Star Game for first time since 1945

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;FOX Sports Kansas City will help get fans ready for the 2020 season on&nbsp;Royals Warmup, a new weekly 30-minute show, beginning tomorrow and airing Fridays until the scheduled opening week of the 2020 regular season.

The Royals TV team of Ryan Lefebvre, Rex Hudler, Jeff Montgomery and Joel Goldberg host the show.

FSKC will also continue to air classic Royals games leading up to the scheduled opening week of the 2020 season. The Royals’ sweep of the Yankees in the 1980 ALCS starts on Monday. That’s followed by the Royals’ four wins in the 1985 ALCS. The Royals’ victories in the 1985 World Series air July 14-17.&nbsp;

Royals Warmup&nbsp;and Royals Classics can be seen on FOX Sports Kansas City and FOX Sports Midwest or FOX Sports Midwest Plus in the Royals TV footprint. They’ll also be streamed on the FOX Sports GO app and at <a href="http://FOXSportsGO.com">FOXSportsGO.com</a>.&nbsp;

Royals Programming on FOX Sports Kansas City Times Central | Programming available in the Royals television footprint

Monday,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1980 ALCS Game 1 – Yankees at Royals

Tuesday,&nbsp;7 p.m., 1980 ALCS Game 2 – Yankees at Royals

Wednesday,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1980 ALCS Game 3 – Royals at Yankees

July 9,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 3 – Blue Jays at Royals

July 10, 7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 5 – Blue Jays at Royals

July 11,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 6 – Royals at Blue Jays

July 12,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 7 – Royals at Blue Jays

July 14,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 3 – Royals at Cardinals

July 15,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 5 – Royals at Cardinals

July 16,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 6 – Cardinals at Royals

July 17,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 7 – Cardinals at Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;FOX Sports Kansas City will help get fans ready for the 2020 season on&nbsp;Royals Warmup, a new weekly 30-minute show, beginning tomorrow and airing Fridays until the scheduled opening week of the 2020 regular season. The Royals TV team of Ryan Lefebvre, Rex Hudler, Jeff Montgomery and Joel Goldberg host the show.FSKC will also continue to air classic Royals games leading up to the scheduled opening week of the 2020 season. The Royals’ sweep of the Yankees in the 1980 ALCS starts on Monday. That’s followed by the Royals’ four wins in the 1985 ALCS. The Royals’ victories in the 1985 World Series air July 14-17.&nbsp;Royals Warmup&nbsp;and Royals Classics can be seen on FOX Sports Kansas City and FOX Sports Midwest or FOX Sports Midwest Plus in the Royals TV footprint. They’ll also be streamed on the FOX Sports GO app and at <a href="http://FOXSportsGO.com">FOXSportsGO.com</a>.&nbsp;Royals Programming on FOX Sports Kansas City Times Central | Programming available in the Royals television footprintRoyals Warmup season previewsFriday, 5:30 p.m.,&nbsp;Episode 1July 10, 5:30 p.m.,&nbsp;Episode 2July 17, 5:30 p.m.,&nbsp;Episode 3Royals ClassicsMonday,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1980 ALCS Game 1 – Yankees at RoyalsTuesday,&nbsp;7 p.m., 1980 ALCS Game 2 – Yankees at RoyalsWednesday,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1980 ALCS Game 3 – Royals at YankeesJuly 9,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 3 – Blue Jays at RoyalsJuly 10, 7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 5 – Blue Jays at RoyalsJuly 11,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 6 – Royals at Blue JaysJuly 12,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 ALCS Game 7 – Royals at Blue JaysJuly 14,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 3 – Royals at CardinalsJuly 15,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 5 – Royals at CardinalsJuly 16,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 6 – Cardinals at RoyalsJuly 17,&nbsp;7 p.m.,&nbsp;1985 World Series Game 7 – Cardinals at Royals

Royals offering special show to get fans ready for the 2020 season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Royals are back! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Royals are back! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F573986690157545%2F&show_text=1&width=476" width="476" height="593" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

The Royals have begun returning to the K

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football Writer

A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that the NFL will cut the preseason in half and push the start of exhibition play back a week to give players more time to get in shape. 

Teams haven't been able to gather together since last season because of the coronavirus pandemic. The league and the players association have been meeting to find ways to make sure they can have games in a safe environment. The exhibition slate will now begin Aug. 20 instead of Aug. 13. Teams will begin reporting to training camp July 28.

The NFL will cut its preseason in half and push back the start of exhibition play so teams have more time to train following an all virtual offseason made necessary by the coronavirus pandemic, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the league hasn't announced that the preseason will be cut from four games to two.

The pandemic forced teams to conduct their entire offseason programs via videoconference. So, teams will be gathering together for the first time when training camps open July 28.

Minus the usual minicamps, on-field practices and in-person weight training from April to June, players' conditioning won't be what it normally is. So, eliminating the first week of preseason games Aug. 13-16 will give them more time to ratchet up their football fitness.

Teams will now play exhibitions Aug. 20-24 and Aug. 27-31 during what were originally the second and third weeks of exhibition play with all 32 teams playing one home and one road game. 

Most of those games will remain the same as originally scheduled although some matchups in that second slate will have to be changed so every team gets a game at home.

The exhibition finales on Sept. 3 were also scrapped, giving teams more time to get ready for the regular season, which opens Sept. 10 with Houston at Kansas City.

There are no changes to the regular season schedule.

The league continues to draw up protocols, not only for COVID-19 mitigation but for ramping up practices during the first few weeks of training camp.

The annual Hall of Fame Game pitting Pittsburgh and Dallas on Aug. 6 was recently scrapped as the induction ceremonies were pushed back to 2021.

Follow Arnie Melendrez Stapleton on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/arniestapleton">http://twitter.com/arniestapleton</a>

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Pro Football WriterA person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that the NFL will cut the preseason in half and push the start of exhibition play back a week to give players more time to get in shape. Teams haven't been able to gather together since last season because of the coronavirus pandemic. The league and the players association have been meeting to find ways to make sure they can have games in a safe environment. The exhibition slate will now begin Aug. 20 instead of Aug. 13. Teams will begin reporting to training camp July 28.The NFL will cut its preseason in half and push back the start of exhibition play so teams have more time to train following an all virtual offseason made necessary by the coronavirus pandemic, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the league hasn't announced that the preseason will be cut from four games to two.The pandemic forced teams to conduct their entire offseason programs via videoconference. So, teams will be gathering together for the first time when training camps open July 28.Minus the usual minicamps, on-field practices and in-person weight training from April to June, players' conditioning won't be what it normally is. So, eliminating the first week of preseason games Aug. 13-16 will give them more time to ratchet up their football fitness.Teams will now play exhibitions Aug. 20-24 and Aug. 27-31 during what were originally the second and third weeks of exhibition play with all 32 teams playing one home and one road game. Most of those games will remain the same as originally scheduled although some matchups in that second slate will have to be changed so every team gets a game at home.The exhibition finales on Sept. 3 were also scrapped, giving teams more time to get ready for the regular season, which opens Sept. 10 with Houston at Kansas City.There are no changes to the regular season schedule.The league continues to draw up protocols, not only for COVID-19 mitigation but for ramping up practices during the first few weeks of training camp.The annual Hall of Fame Game pitting Pittsburgh and Dallas on Aug. 6 was recently scrapped as the induction ceremonies were pushed back to 2021.Follow Arnie Melendrez Stapleton on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/arniestapleton">http://twitter.com/arniestapleton</a>

AP Source: NFL cutting preseason in half, pushing back start

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With the return of baseball in 2020, the Kansas City Royals are excited to announce the Fanbassador program. 

Season ticket members will be offered the chance to order a hard-plastic cutout of their likeness that will be displayed in a seat at Kauffman Stadium during the 2020 season!

Initially, up to 500 “Fanbassador” cutouts will be available. Each cutout can be purchased for $40. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Royals Respond Fund, a Royals Charities effort that supports Kansas City area nonprofits who focus on food insecurity as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic.

Season ticket members will receive an email from the Royals to access the form and upload their photo. The items will be placed in locations around the ballpark so fans and their families may be able to see the cutout of themselves while watching the game on TV. The cutouts will remain in the ballpark throughout the 2020 season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593624268754.jpeg" alt="KC Royals Fanbassador. Photo courtesy the Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>KC Royals Fanbassador. Photo courtesy the Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With the return of baseball in 2020, the Kansas City Royals are excited to announce the Fanbassador program. Season ticket members will be offered the chance to order a hard-plastic cutout of their likeness that will be displayed in a seat at Kauffman Stadium during the 2020 season!Initially, up to 500 “Fanbassador” cutouts will be available. Each cutout can be purchased for $40. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Royals Respond Fund, a Royals Charities effort that supports Kansas City area nonprofits who focus on food insecurity as it relates to the coronavirus pandemic.Season ticket members will receive an email from the Royals to access the form and upload their photo. The items will be placed in locations around the ballpark so fans and their families may be able to see the cutout of themselves while watching the game on TV. The cutouts will remain in the ballpark throughout the 2020 season.

Royals announce Fanbassador program

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals honor the Negro Leagues on their 100th anniversary. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals honor the Negro Leagues on their 100th anniversary. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fvideos%2F719085445330991%2F&show_text=1&width=380" width="380" height="717" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

📹Kansas City Royals honor the Negro Leagues

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Chiefs remember Joe Delaney. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Chiefs remember Joe Delaney. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs/">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F571690980142377%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="447" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Kansas City Chiefs remember Joe Delaney

Manhattan (AP) — Legendary former Kansas State football coach Bill Snyder says he misses being on the field but has no interest in returning to the sidelines more than 18 months after wrapping up a Hall of Fame career.

Snyder&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bf2c52a682ba4a07832d8b9a8fde05a8">stepped away</a>&nbsp;in 2018 after 27 seasons on the sidelines that included winning 215 games, reaching 19 bowls and claiming a pair of Big 12 titles. He said he’s now mostly at home spending time with his wife and family.

“I don’t wake up thinking, ‘Boy do I miss football,’” Snyder told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article243789582.html" target="_blank">The Wichita Eagle</a>&nbsp;during a recent video conference. “I don’t really think about it all that much.”

Snyder said that when he first retired in 2005, it took him about half a year to get accustomed to the new role. And though he returned from retirement three years later, it’s never bothered him since.

“I can’t say that I don’t miss being on the field, but it’s not something that I think about going back to,” Snyder said. “The time has come and passed and I enjoyed it.”

Snyder arrived at Kansas State in the fall of 1988, a nondescript offensive coordinator from Iowa who once coached high school swimming before learning under legendary Hawkeyes coach Hayden Fry. During his tenure in Manhattan, which began in the Big Eight, he weathered seismic shifts in college football. Along the way he overcame throat cancer, sent dozens of players to the NFL and gave countless more an opportunity to succeed on and off the field.

Snyder said he still talks to many of his former players and recently made the case for Michael Bishop and Darren Sproles to join him in the College Football Hall of Fame

Synder said he’s always loved mentoring young players and imparting wisdom. He offered insight to anyone struggling with the unprecedented times we’re living through.

“I would like to think that it would be virtually the same,” Snyder said. “With all the turmoil that goes on, one thing that stands at the top is the quality of character and the type of person that you are and the value system that you possess.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593432632894.png" alt="Bill Snyder -photo courtesy K-State Athletics&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bill Snyder -photo courtesy K-State Athletics&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Manhattan (AP) — Legendary former Kansas State football coach Bill Snyder says he misses being on the field but has no interest in returning to the sidelines more than 18 months after wrapping up a Hall of Fame career.Snyder&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/bf2c52a682ba4a07832d8b9a8fde05a8">stepped away</a>&nbsp;in 2018 after 27 seasons on the sidelines that included winning 215 games, reaching 19 bowls and claiming a pair of Big 12 titles. He said he’s now mostly at home spending time with his wife and family.“I don’t wake up thinking, ‘Boy do I miss football,’” Snyder told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article243789582.html" target="_blank">The Wichita Eagle</a>&nbsp;during a recent video conference. “I don’t really think about it all that much.”Snyder said that when he first retired in 2005, it took him about half a year to get accustomed to the new role. And though he returned from retirement three years later, it’s never bothered him since.“I can’t say that I don’t miss being on the field, but it’s not something that I think about going back to,” Snyder said. “The time has come and passed and I enjoyed it.”Snyder arrived at Kansas State in the fall of 1988, a nondescript offensive coordinator from Iowa who once coached high school swimming before learning under legendary Hawkeyes coach Hayden Fry. During his tenure in Manhattan, which began in the Big Eight, he weathered seismic shifts in college football. Along the way he overcame throat cancer, sent dozens of players to the NFL and gave countless more an opportunity to succeed on and off the field.Snyder said he still talks to many of his former players and recently made the case for Michael Bishop and Darren Sproles to join him in the College Football Hall of FameSynder said he’s always loved mentoring young players and imparting wisdom. He offered insight to anyone struggling with the unprecedented times we’re living through.“I would like to think that it would be virtually the same,” Snyder said. “With all the turmoil that goes on, one thing that stands at the top is the quality of character and the type of person that you are and the value system that you possess.”

Longtime Kansas State coach Snyder says he enjoys retirement

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals have announced their 60-player club pool for summer camp. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals </a>Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Royals have announced their 60-player club pool for summer camp. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Royals/">Kansas City Royals </a>Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRoyals%2Fposts%2F10157529262488691&width=500" width="500" height="594" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Royals announce player pool for summer camp

LINDSBORG -- The court is finished! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bethanycollegeks/">Bethany College</a> Facebook page:

LINDSBORG -- The court is finished! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bethanycollegeks/">Bethany College</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbethanycollegeks%2Fposts%2F10160100904149251&width=500" width="500" height="734" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Bethany: New court in Hahn Gymnasium

By BARRY WILNER AP Pro Football Writer

The NFL still plans to hold training camps on time beginning in late July, though contingency plans are in place. 

Hours after the league canceled the Hall of Fame game that kicks off the preseason, the 32 team owners on Thursday were updated on a variety of issues, many dealing with working through the coronavirus pandemic. Most notably, according to NFL general counsel Jeff Pash, the owners were told about plans to fully reopen team facilities for training camp next month. 

Team facilities were closed in late March due to the pandemic and have been reopened to limited personnel.

By BARRY WILNER AP Pro Football WriterThe NFL still plans to hold training camps on time beginning in late July, though contingency plans are in place. Hours after the league canceled the Hall of Fame game that kicks off the preseason, the 32 team owners on Thursday were updated on a variety of issues, many dealing with working through the coronavirus pandemic. Most notably, according to NFL general counsel Jeff Pash, the owners were told about plans to fully reopen team facilities for training camp next month. Team facilities were closed in late March due to the pandemic and have been reopened to limited personnel.

NFL training camps still on original schedule for late July

The NFL has canceled the Hall of Fame game that traditionally opens the preseason and is delaying the 2020 induction ceremonies for a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The Aug. 6 exhibition game in Canton, Ohio, between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers is the first on-field event the league has canceled during the pandemic. It will now be played on Aug. 5, 2021. 

Enshrinements for 20 men scheduled for this year now will occur on Aug. 7, 2021. The 2021 inductees will go into the Pro Football Hall of Fame the next day.

By BARRY WILNER AP Pro Football WriterThe NFL has canceled the Hall of Fame game that traditionally opens the preseason and is delaying the 2020 induction ceremonies for a year because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Aug. 6 exhibition game in Canton, Ohio, between the Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers is the first on-field event the league has canceled during the pandemic. It will now be played on Aug. 5, 2021. Enshrinements for 20 men scheduled for this year now will occur on Aug. 7, 2021. The 2021 inductees will go into the Pro Football Hall of Fame the next day.

NFL cancels Hall of Fame game, delays inductions until 2021

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — After much discussion over the past several months, the Kansas City Chiefs officially notified Missouri State University (MWSU) this week that they will be unable to hold their 2020 Training Camp at Missouri Western due to the NFL’s evolving policies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a statement from Josh Looney, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Missouri Western State University.

Both MWSU and the Chiefs were very excited about the potential of our 11th training camp in St. Joseph this summer, but with health and safety a top priority surrounding the many facets of hosting an NFL Training Camp, the university understands and appreciate the need for caution. 

Fans in St. Joseph look forward to rooting on the defending Super Bowl champs throughout this coming season and welcoming them back to the MWSU campus in July 2021 and beyond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591814013520.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — After much discussion over the past several months, the Kansas City Chiefs officially notified Missouri State University (MWSU) this week that they will be unable to hold their 2020 Training Camp at Missouri Western due to the NFL’s evolving policies in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a statement from Josh Looney, vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Missouri Western State University.Both MWSU and the Chiefs were very excited about the potential of our 11th training camp in St. Joseph this summer, but with health and safety a top priority surrounding the many facets of hosting an NFL Training Camp, the university understands and appreciate the need for caution. Fans in St. Joseph look forward to rooting on the defending Super Bowl champs throughout this coming season and welcoming them back to the MWSU campus in July 2021 and beyond.

Chiefs won't hold training camp at Missouri Western this summer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman issued the following statement concerning the return to baseball.

"I have been impressed and inspired by the way our organization has conducted itself during these remarkable times, preparing for the return of baseball and responding to our community’s most urgent needs.

"I am happy for our players, coaches, scouts, front office associates and all of us who are getting back to the game we love. As we do so, our first and highest priority will be the health and safety of everyone who loves Royals baseball.&nbsp;

"We are thankful for our fans,&nbsp;our partners and our sponsors who have run alongside us and supported us during this time. I am also grateful for our ownership group, who has passionately engaged in supporting a season&nbsp;they could never have anticipated.&nbsp;

"We look forward to&nbsp;returning to Kauffman Stadium to&nbsp;compete on behalf of our community and the great fans of the Kansas City Royals. I can’t wait for Opening Day, as we welcome back the healing and unifying power of sports.&nbsp; Let’s play baseball."

Major League Baseball announced Tuesday that the league would play a 60-game schedule that will start  July 23 or 24 in empty ballparks.&nbsp;This will be MLB's shortest season since 1878. 

Each team will play 10 games against each of its four division rivals and four games against each of the five clubs in the corresponding division in the other league, according to details obtained by The Associated Press.

The sides expanded the designated hitter to games involving National League teams and will start extra innings with a runner on second base.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman issued the following statement concerning the return to baseball."I have been impressed and inspired by the way our organization has conducted itself during these remarkable times, preparing for the return of baseball and responding to our community’s most urgent needs."I am happy for our players, coaches, scouts, front office associates and all of us who are getting back to the game we love. As we do so, our first and highest priority will be the health and safety of everyone who loves Royals baseball.&nbsp;"We are thankful for our fans,&nbsp;our partners and our sponsors who have run alongside us and supported us during this time. I am also grateful for our ownership group, who has passionately engaged in supporting a season&nbsp;they could never have anticipated.&nbsp;"We look forward to&nbsp;returning to Kauffman Stadium to&nbsp;compete on behalf of our community and the great fans of the Kansas City Royals. I can’t wait for Opening Day, as we welcome back the healing and unifying power of sports.&nbsp; Let’s play baseball."Major League Baseball announced Tuesday that the league would play a 60-game schedule that will start July 23 or 24 in empty ballparks.&nbsp;This will be MLB's shortest season since 1878. Each team will play 10 games against each of its four division rivals and four games against each of the five clubs in the corresponding division in the other league, according to details obtained by The Associated Press.The sides expanded the designated hitter to games involving National League teams and will start extra innings with a runner on second base.

Royals' Sherman: Let’s play baseball

By RONALD BLUM AP Baseball Writer

NEW YORK — Major League Baseball has issued a 60-game schedule that will start &nbsp;July 23 or 24 in empty ballparks as the sport tries to push ahead amid the coronavirus following months of acrimony. 

This will be MLB's shortest season since 1878. Each team will play 10 games against each of its four division rivals and four games against each of the five clubs in the corresponding division in the other league, according to details obtained by The Associated Press. 

By RONALD BLUM AP Baseball WriterNEW YORK — Major League Baseball has issued a 60-game schedule that will start &nbsp;July 23 or 24 in empty ballparks as the sport tries to push ahead amid the coronavirus following months of acrimony. This will be MLB's shortest season since 1878. Each team will play 10 games against each of its four division rivals and four games against each of the five clubs in the corresponding division in the other league, according to details obtained by The Associated Press. The sides expanded the designated hitter to games involving National League teams and will start extra innings with a runner on second base.

Baseball's back: MLB sets 60-game sked, opens July 23 or 24

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have agreed to terms with 13 players, including all six who were selected in the 2020 First-Year Player Draft on June 10-11:&nbsp;Asa Lacy, a left-handed pitcher from Texas A&amp;M University in the first round (No. 4 overall);&nbsp;Nick Loftin&nbsp;a shortstop from Baylor University in Competitive Balance Round A (No. 32 overall),&nbsp;Ben Hernandez, a right-handed pitcher from De La Salle Institute (Ill.) in the second round (No. 41 overall);&nbsp;Tyler Gentry, an outfielder from the University of Alabama in the third round (No. 76 overall);&nbsp;Christian Chamberlain, a left-handed pitcher from Oregon State University in the fourth round (No. 105 overall); and&nbsp;Will Klein, a right-handed pitcher from Eastern Illinois University in the fifth round (No. 135 overall).

The Royals also agreed to terms with seven undrafted free agents, including: left-handed pitcher&nbsp;AJ Block&nbsp;from Washington State University; outfielder&nbsp;Tucker Bradley&nbsp;from the University of Georgia; catcher&nbsp;Kale Emshoff, from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock; catcher&nbsp;Saul Garza, from Louisiana State University; right-handed pitcher&nbsp;John McMillon&nbsp;from Texas Tech University; infielder&nbsp;Matt Schmidt&nbsp;from the University of Michigan; and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Chase Wallace&nbsp;from the University of Tennessee.

Block, 22, went 2-0 with a 3.25 ERA (10 ER in 27.2 IP) and 34 strikeouts (11.1 K/9) to just five walks (1.6 BB/9) in four starts this season at Washington State, prior to the season being suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. He led all Pac-12 pitchers in innings and tied for second in strikeouts, and had double-digit strikeout performances in each of his last three starts, becoming the first Cougar to accomplish that feat in at least 33 seasons. He was selected by Detroit in the 17th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but chose to return to Washington State for his senior season. He was also selected in 2016 by the Chicago Cubs in the 39th&nbsp;round out of Newport High School in Washington, but did not sign.

Bradley, 22, was batting .397 (25-for-63) with six home runs, 23 RBI and eight stolen bases in 18 games when Georgia’s 2020 season was suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. He also recorded 4.1 scoreless innings on the mound over three relief appearances. Bradley’s performance led the Bulldogs to a 14-4 record and a national ranking of No. 2 in the&nbsp;USA Today Sports&nbsp;Top 25 poll.

Emshoff, 22, hit .417 (25-for-60) with seven home runs in just 17 games at Arkansas-Little Rock prior to the season being canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. He led the Sun Belt Conference in home runs and slugging percentage (.800) and ranked second in batting average, while starting 13 games at catcher and four as the designated hitter. Emshoff missed the entire 2019 season due to injury. He was the No. 146-ranked prospect in the 2020 Draft per MLB Pipeline.

Garza, 22, led LSU with three home runs in 14 games prior to the 2020 season being suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Royals selected him in the 32nd&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but he choose to return to LSU and was named to the SEC All-Tournament Team in 2019, after batting .303 (44-for-145) in 50 games (42 starts). Prior to attending LSU, Garza hit. 378 with 23 home runs at Howard Junior College, where he was selected to the NJCAA Division I All-Region Team. He was selected by St. Louis in the 31st&nbsp;round in 2017 out of Edinburg North High School in Texas, but did not sign.

McMillon, 22, pitched in relief during his junior and senior seasons at Texas Tech, including 9.1 innings over seven outings this spring, in which he struck out 20 batters (19.3 K/9). He was a two-way player in his first two collegiate seasons, going a combined 7-3 with a 3.36 ERA (33 ER in 88.1 IP) in 41 appearances (12 starts) on the mound, while hitting nine home runs in 74 games at the plate. McMillon was selected by Detroit in the 11th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but chose to return to Texas Tech for his senior season. He was selected by Tampa Bay in the 21st&nbsp;round of the 2016 First-Year Player Draft out of Jasper High School in Texas, but did not sign.

Schmidt, 23, played in just 46 games during his collegiate career at Michigan. The fifth-year senior hit his first career home run this spring, a go-ahead shot in the eighth inning vs. 2019 National Champion Vanderbilt. Prior to his time with the Wolverines, Schmidt played the 2016-17 seasons at Cypress College (Calif.). He was selected by the New York Yankees in the 37th&nbsp;round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft out of Regis Jesuit High School (Texas), but chose to attend the University of Texas, where he was enrolled prior to his transfer to Cypress. Matt is the son of Colorado Rockies scouting director, Bill Schmidt.

Wallace, 21, went 1-1 with a 3.50 ERA (7 ER in 18.0 IP) in four starts at the University of Tennessee this spring as a junior. He missed most of the 2019 season due to injury, but did record a 2.74 ERA (7 ER in 23.0 IP) in 14 relief appearances in the Cape Cod League.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas City Royals announced today that they have agreed to terms with 13 players, including all six who were selected in the 2020 First-Year Player Draft on June 10-11:&nbsp;Asa Lacy, a left-handed pitcher from Texas A&amp;M University in the first round (No. 4 overall);&nbsp;Nick Loftin&nbsp;a shortstop from Baylor University in Competitive Balance Round A (No. 32 overall),&nbsp;Ben Hernandez, a right-handed pitcher from De La Salle Institute (Ill.) in the second round (No. 41 overall);&nbsp;Tyler Gentry, an outfielder from the University of Alabama in the third round (No. 76 overall);&nbsp;Christian Chamberlain, a left-handed pitcher from Oregon State University in the fourth round (No. 105 overall); and&nbsp;Will Klein, a right-handed pitcher from Eastern Illinois University in the fifth round (No. 135 overall).The Royals also agreed to terms with seven undrafted free agents, including: left-handed pitcher&nbsp;AJ Block&nbsp;from Washington State University; outfielder&nbsp;Tucker Bradley&nbsp;from the University of Georgia; catcher&nbsp;Kale Emshoff, from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock; catcher&nbsp;Saul Garza, from Louisiana State University; right-handed pitcher&nbsp;John McMillon&nbsp;from Texas Tech University; infielder&nbsp;Matt Schmidt&nbsp;from the University of Michigan; and right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Chase Wallace&nbsp;from the University of Tennessee.Block, 22, went 2-0 with a 3.25 ERA (10 ER in 27.2 IP) and 34 strikeouts (11.1 K/9) to just five walks (1.6 BB/9) in four starts this season at Washington State, prior to the season being suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. He led all Pac-12 pitchers in innings and tied for second in strikeouts, and had double-digit strikeout performances in each of his last three starts, becoming the first Cougar to accomplish that feat in at least 33 seasons. He was selected by Detroit in the 17th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but chose to return to Washington State for his senior season. He was also selected in 2016 by the Chicago Cubs in the 39th&nbsp;round out of Newport High School in Washington, but did not sign.Bradley, 22, was batting .397 (25-for-63) with six home runs, 23 RBI and eight stolen bases in 18 games when Georgia’s 2020 season was suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. He also recorded 4.1 scoreless innings on the mound over three relief appearances. Bradley’s performance led the Bulldogs to a 14-4 record and a national ranking of No. 2 in the&nbsp;USA Today Sports&nbsp;Top 25 poll.Emshoff, 22, hit .417 (25-for-60) with seven home runs in just 17 games at Arkansas-Little Rock prior to the season being canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak. He led the Sun Belt Conference in home runs and slugging percentage (.800) and ranked second in batting average, while starting 13 games at catcher and four as the designated hitter. Emshoff missed the entire 2019 season due to injury. He was the No. 146-ranked prospect in the 2020 Draft per MLB Pipeline.Garza, 22, led LSU with three home runs in 14 games prior to the 2020 season being suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Royals selected him in the 32nd&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but he choose to return to LSU and was named to the SEC All-Tournament Team in 2019, after batting .303 (44-for-145) in 50 games (42 starts). Prior to attending LSU, Garza hit. 378 with 23 home runs at Howard Junior College, where he was selected to the NJCAA Division I All-Region Team. He was selected by St. Louis in the 31st&nbsp;round in 2017 out of Edinburg North High School in Texas, but did not sign.McMillon, 22, pitched in relief during his junior and senior seasons at Texas Tech, including 9.1 innings over seven outings this spring, in which he struck out 20 batters (19.3 K/9). He was a two-way player in his first two collegiate seasons, going a combined 7-3 with a 3.36 ERA (33 ER in 88.1 IP) in 41 appearances (12 starts) on the mound, while hitting nine home runs in 74 games at the plate. McMillon was selected by Detroit in the 11th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft, but chose to return to Texas Tech for his senior season. He was selected by Tampa Bay in the 21st&nbsp;round of the 2016 First-Year Player Draft out of Jasper High School in Texas, but did not sign.Schmidt, 23, played in just 46 games during his collegiate career at Michigan. The fifth-year senior hit his first career home run this spring, a go-ahead shot in the eighth inning vs. 2019 National Champion Vanderbilt. Prior to his time with the Wolverines, Schmidt played the 2016-17 seasons at Cypress College (Calif.). He was selected by the New York Yankees in the 37th&nbsp;round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft out of Regis Jesuit High School (Texas), but chose to attend the University of Texas, where he was enrolled prior to his transfer to Cypress. Matt is the son of Colorado Rockies scouting director, Bill Schmidt.Wallace, 21, went 1-1 with a 3.50 ERA (7 ER in 18.0 IP) in four starts at the University of Tennessee this spring as a junior. He missed most of the 2019 season due to injury, but did record a 2.74 ERA (7 ER in 23.0 IP) in 14 relief appearances in the Cape Cod League.

Royals agree to terms with all 6 draft picks, 7 undrafted free agents

NEW YORK — A person familiar with the decision tells The Associated Press that the executive board of the Major League Baseball Players Association rejected a proposed 60-game schedule by a 33-5 vote. 

The union dared Commissioner Rob Manfred to give a unilateral order for the regular season's start and provoke what figures to be lengthy and costly litigation over the impact of the coronavirus on the sport. 

Manfred was expected to take the next step as baseball descends into the type of labor strife that led to eight work stoppages from 1972-95.

By RONALD BLUM AP Baseball WriterNEW YORK — A person familiar with the decision tells The Associated Press that the executive board of the Major League Baseball Players Association rejected a proposed 60-game schedule by a 33-5 vote. The union dared Commissioner Rob Manfred to give a unilateral order for the regular season's start and provoke what figures to be lengthy and costly litigation over the impact of the coronavirus on the sport. Manfred was expected to take the next step as baseball descends into the type of labor strife that led to eight work stoppages from 1972-95.

AP source: Players' board rejects 60-game season by 33-5

HAYS -- Entries are now being taken for the Hays Eagles' Wild West Fest 17-19U Wood Bat Tournament. Following is the entry form.

HAYS -- Entries are now being taken for the Hays Eagles' Wild West Fest 17-19U Wood Bat Tournament. Following is the entry form.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592871876155.jpeg" alt="" />
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Entries now being taken for Wild West Fest 17-19U tourney

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all voluntary workouts for football student-athletes for 14 days following the most recent COVID-19 test results. As of Friday, a total of 14 student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing of more than 130 student-athletes. The 14 individuals who have tested positive are being medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer.&nbsp; “The health and well-being of our student-athletes will always be our top priority,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Following the most recent test results, we felt like temporarily pausing all football workouts and access to our facilities was the best decision for everyone. We continue to take this situation very seriously and want to do everything we can to get back to workouts soon.” The department will continue to work closely and communicate with county and university health officials to evaluate the situation and continue best practices.

–&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>&nbsp;–

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State Athletics, in conjunction with university and county medical officials, has announced it has paused all voluntary workouts for football student-athletes for 14 days following the most recent COVID-19 test results. As of Friday, a total of 14 student-athletes have tested positive for active COVID-19 following PCR (polymerase chain reaction)&nbsp;testing of more than 130 student-athletes. The 14 individuals who have tested positive are being medically managed according to current local, state, national, and CDC guidelines, which begins with self-isolation for 10 days and until the patient is without fever for 72 hours without medication, whichever takes longer.&nbsp; “The health and well-being of our student-athletes will always be our top priority,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Following the most recent test results, we felt like temporarily pausing all football workouts and access to our facilities was the best decision for everyone. We continue to take this situation very seriously and want to do everything we can to get back to workouts soon.” The department will continue to work closely and communicate with county and university health officials to evaluate the situation and continue best practices. –&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>&nbsp;–

K-State athletics pauses all voluntary workouts for football

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Prior to our student-athletes returning to participate in voluntary activities, Kansas Athletics has been guided by the medical professionals at Kansas Team Health who have created policies and procedures to be properly prepared for the return of the football student-athletes.

The plan created by Kansas Team Health requires COVID-19 testing of student-athletes and staff as well as detailed daily procedures to maintain proper compliance with health and safety guidelines. The detailed document can be found by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Kansas-Team-Health-COVID-19-Reentry-Plan-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.

As of Saturday, 86 football student-athletes received the nasopharyngeal swab and antibody blood tests, and 110 staff members (includes coaches and support staff) received the nasopharyngeal swab test. Of the 86 student-athletes tested, one student athlete tested positive for COVID-19 and another student-athlete tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies. The student-athlete with the positive COVID-19 test had shown no symptoms prior to returning the Lawrence community for voluntary football activities. This individual is self-isolating and is being monitored frequently by medical professionals.

The student-athlete whose test result was positive for antibodies was unaware of previously contracting COVID-19. As detailed in the policies linked above, any student-athlete with a positive antibody test will receive additional evaluation by medical professionals.

Similar testing procedures will apply to all returning student-athletes from other teams. All activities will be closely monitored by the physicians, athletic trainers and strength and conditioning staffs within Kansas Team Health and will follow a stringent set of health and safety guidelines.

“The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes remains the highest priority in our athletics department. As our student-athletes choose to return at various dates in the coming weeks for voluntary activities, it is our priority to them, as well as their families, to ensure their health is appropriately cared for even more so now during this pandemic.

“Our staff and doctors have been prepared for the inevitable situation where a student-athlete received a positive COVID-19 test and immediately followed the plans and policies prepared by Kansas Team Health. Our student-athlete is being cared for and provided necessary items should he develop symptoms.

“The partnership with Kansas Team Health has been a tremendous asset since it was formed a year ago, but as we’ve all navigated this uncharted territory together, the medical advice and recommendations from their team of experts has been a tremendous benefit for our student-athletes, coaches and staff.&nbsp;

“While we can be almost certain there will be additional positive tests, we are committed to properly handling each individual with the highest medical care and doing our part to mitigate the spread.”

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Prior to our student-athletes returning to participate in voluntary activities, Kansas Athletics has been guided by the medical professionals at Kansas Team Health who have created policies and procedures to be properly prepared for the return of the football student-athletes. The plan created by Kansas Team Health requires COVID-19 testing of student-athletes and staff as well as detailed daily procedures to maintain proper compliance with health and safety guidelines. The detailed document can be found by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Kansas-Team-Health-COVID-19-Reentry-Plan-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.As of Saturday, 86 football student-athletes received the nasopharyngeal swab and antibody blood tests, and 110 staff members (includes coaches and support staff) received the nasopharyngeal swab test. Of the 86 student-athletes tested, one student athlete tested positive for COVID-19 and another student-athlete tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies. The student-athlete with the positive COVID-19 test had shown no symptoms prior to returning the Lawrence community for voluntary football activities. This individual is self-isolating and is being monitored frequently by medical professionals.The student-athlete whose test result was positive for antibodies was unaware of previously contracting COVID-19. As detailed in the policies linked above, any student-athlete with a positive antibody test will receive additional evaluation by medical professionals.Similar testing procedures will apply to all returning student-athletes from other teams. All activities will be closely monitored by the physicians, athletic trainers and strength and conditioning staffs within Kansas Team Health and will follow a stringent set of health and safety guidelines.Statement from Director of Athletics Jeff Long“The health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes remains the highest priority in our athletics department. As our student-athletes choose to return at various dates in the coming weeks for voluntary activities, it is our priority to them, as well as their families, to ensure their health is appropriately cared for even more so now during this pandemic.“Our staff and doctors have been prepared for the inevitable situation where a student-athlete received a positive COVID-19 test and immediately followed the plans and policies prepared by Kansas Team Health. Our student-athlete is being cared for and provided necessary items should he develop symptoms.“The partnership with Kansas Team Health has been a tremendous asset since it was formed a year ago, but as we’ve all navigated this uncharted territory together, the medical advice and recommendations from their team of experts has been a tremendous benefit for our student-athletes, coaches and staff.&nbsp;“While we can be almost certain there will be additional positive tests, we are committed to properly handling each individual with the highest medical care and doing our part to mitigate the spread.”--<a href="https://kuathletics.com/" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com</a>--