MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– A trio of former and current K-State women’s basketball players will be in action this summer across the globe.

Recent Wildcat graduate Serena Sundell will play in the 3XBA in the Pro Women’s FIBA 3x3 tournament at the Spokane Hoopfest on June 27-28 in Spokane, Washington. The 3XBA event will feature 32 of the most elite basketball players in the nation competing in the official Olympic 3x3 format. The tournament serves as a FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series Qualifier and the winning roster will earn a bid to the Edmonton stop of the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series on August 1-2.

A 2025 Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and Associated Press (AP) All-America honorable mention selection, Sundell led the nation with a career-high and school record for total assists (262) and paced the nation and led the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.28 apg) and was second in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.52). She recorded a league-best nine games with 10 or more assists.

The product of Maryville, Missouri, was second on the team in scoring average with 14.1 points per game and led the Wildcats with 508 points, which was the second-highest total of her career on a .501 field goal percentage. Sundell was the only player in the nation this season and the third player since 1993-94 to register a season with 500 or more points, 250 or more assists and shoot 50.0 percent or better from the field.

With her point (508) and assist (262) totals in the 2024-25 season, Sundell was the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists. She joined former Wildcat Kayla Goth as the only two players in program history with 500 or more points and 200 or more assists in a season.

In her career, Sundell set the school records for career starts (139) and games played (139). She established the school record and ranks fourth in Big 12 history for career assists with 811 and is second in program history for career assists per game (5.83 apg). She ranks sixth on the K-State career scoring list with 1,771 points. She ranks tied for seventh in school history for career blocks (104).

She was the first player in school history and the 14th&nbsp;in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history with 1,700 or more career points and 800 or more career assists.

Sundell was a 2025 WNBA Draft selection by the Seattle Storm. She was the ninth player in program history to be selected during the WNBA Draft.

Incoming Wildcat Gina Garcia will have a busy two months before arriving in Manhattan. Garcia will play for Spain in the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket in Las Palmas, Spain, from July 5-13 and the FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket in Matosinhos, Portugal, from August 2-10.

In the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, Spain is in Group D and will be matched up with Turkey. Czechia and Poland. Spain was the runner-up to France in the 2024 event.

In the FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket, Spain is in Group and will face Lithuania, Israel and Begium. Similar to the FIBA U18, Spain was the runner-up to France in the 2024 FIBA U20 EuroBasket.

Garcia has extensive international experience, as she has played for Spain in five different international competitions and for the Catalan National Team before this summer’s tournaments.

In 2024, Garcia played for Spain at a pair of international tournaments: the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s Eurobasket in Matosinhos, Portugal, and the FIBA U17 Women’s World Cup in Leon, Mexico. She helped Spain to a silver medal at the FIBA U18 Women’s Eurobasket by averaging 5.1 points, 4.0 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 20 minutes per game. In the semifinal game against Serbia, Garcia recorded seven points, eight assists and three steals. In the gold medal game against France, Garcia tallied nine points, four assists and four rebounds.

She helped Spain to a bronze medal at the FIBA U17 World Cup, as she was second in the tournament for assists per game at 5.1 and an assist to turnover ratio of 3.3. She also added in 7.0 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals.

In the summer of 2023, Garcia played in the FIBA U16 Women’s Eurobasket in Izmir, Turkey. She helped Spain to a silver medal in this event by averaging 7.3 points, 3.4 assists, 3.1 steals and 2.6 rebounds in 26.3 minutes per game. She ranked eighth in the event for assists per game. In the gold medal game against France, Garcia tallied 11 points, four assists, two rebounds and a steal.

She also collected All-Star Five honors in the 2022 U15 Torneo Amistad while aiding Spain to a gold medal finish and the help Spain to another gold at the 2022 U15 Medac Tournament and was named tournament MVP.

Former Wildcat Gabby Gregory (2022-24) has signed to play professionally in Puerto Rico in the Women’s National Superior Basketball (BSNF) league with expansion franchise, Monarcas de Juana Diaz. The league’s season runs from August to November.

In her two seasons at K-State, Gregory was the first player to transfer to K-State and then reach the 1,000- and 1,500-point marks in her collegiate career. Gregory scored in double figures in 44 games at K-State. She also ranked fifth in program history for career free throw percentage (.803).

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– A trio of former and current K-State women’s basketball players will be in action this summer across the globe.Recent Wildcat graduate Serena Sundell will play in the 3XBA in the Pro Women’s FIBA 3x3 tournament at the Spokane Hoopfest on June 27-28 in Spokane, Washington. The 3XBA event will feature 32 of the most elite basketball players in the nation competing in the official Olympic 3x3 format. The tournament serves as a FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series Qualifier and the winning roster will earn a bid to the Edmonton stop of the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series on August 1-2.A 2025 Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) and Associated Press (AP) All-America honorable mention selection, Sundell led the nation with a career-high and school record for total assists (262) and paced the nation and led the Big 12 with a career-high for assists per game (7.28 apg) and was second in the Big 12 for assist-turnover ratio (2.52). She recorded a league-best nine games with 10 or more assists.The product of Maryville, Missouri, was second on the team in scoring average with 14.1 points per game and led the Wildcats with 508 points, which was the second-highest total of her career on a .501 field goal percentage. Sundell was the only player in the nation this season and the third player since 1993-94 to register a season with 500 or more points, 250 or more assists and shoot 50.0 percent or better from the field.With her point (508) and assist (262) totals in the 2024-25 season, Sundell was the first player in Big 12 history to record four seasons with 350 or more points and 150 or more assists. She joined former Wildcat Kayla Goth as the only two players in program history with 500 or more points and 200 or more assists in a season.In her career, Sundell set the school records for career starts (139) and games played (139). She established the school record and ranks fourth in Big 12 history for career assists with 811 and is second in program history for career assists per game (5.83 apg). She ranks sixth on the K-State career scoring list with 1,771 points. She ranks tied for seventh in school history for career blocks (104).She was the first player in school history and the 14th&nbsp;in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history with 1,700 or more career points and 800 or more career assists.Sundell was a 2025 WNBA Draft selection by the Seattle Storm. She was the ninth player in program history to be selected during the WNBA Draft.Incoming Wildcat Gina Garcia will have a busy two months before arriving in Manhattan. Garcia will play for Spain in the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket in Las Palmas, Spain, from July 5-13 and the FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket in Matosinhos, Portugal, from August 2-10.In the FIBA U18 Women’s EuroBasket, Spain is in Group D and will be matched up with Turkey. Czechia and Poland. Spain was the runner-up to France in the 2024 event.In the FIBA U20 Women’s EuroBasket, Spain is in Group and will face Lithuania, Israel and Begium. Similar to the FIBA U18, Spain was the runner-up to France in the 2024 FIBA U20 EuroBasket.Garcia has extensive international experience, as she has played for Spain in five different international competitions and for the Catalan National Team before this summer’s tournaments.In 2024, Garcia played for Spain at a pair of international tournaments: the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s Eurobasket in Matosinhos, Portugal, and the FIBA U17 Women’s World Cup in Leon, Mexico. She helped Spain to a silver medal at the FIBA U18 Women’s Eurobasket by averaging 5.1 points, 4.0 assists, 2.1 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 20 minutes per game. In the semifinal game against Serbia, Garcia recorded seven points, eight assists and three steals. In the gold medal game against France, Garcia tallied nine points, four assists and four rebounds.She helped Spain to a bronze medal at the FIBA U17 World Cup, as she was second in the tournament for assists per game at 5.1 and an assist to turnover ratio of 3.3. She also added in 7.0 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals.In the summer of 2023, Garcia played in the FIBA U16 Women’s Eurobasket in Izmir, Turkey. She helped Spain to a silver medal in this event by averaging 7.3 points, 3.4 assists, 3.1 steals and 2.6 rebounds in 26.3 minutes per game. She ranked eighth in the event for assists per game. In the gold medal game against France, Garcia tallied 11 points, four assists, two rebounds and a steal.She also collected All-Star Five honors in the 2022 U15 Torneo Amistad while aiding Spain to a gold medal finish and the help Spain to another gold at the 2022 U15 Medac Tournament and was named tournament MVP.Former Wildcat Gabby Gregory (2022-24) has signed to play professionally in Puerto Rico in the Women’s National Superior Basketball (BSNF) league with expansion franchise, Monarcas de Juana Diaz. The league’s season runs from August to November.In her two seasons at K-State, Gregory was the first player to transfer to K-State and then reach the 1,000- and 1,500-point marks in her collegiate career. Gregory scored in double figures in 44 games at K-State. She also ranked fifth in program history for career free throw percentage (.803).

Trio of K-State Women’s Basketball Players in Action This Summer

WICHITA, Kan. (June 12, 2025)—Tyler Dearden knocked a two-RBI double to left field in a 5-1 Wichita Wind Surge victory over the Corpus Christi Hooks at Equity Bank Park. A four-run fourth provided most of the offense for the Wind Surge, who cruised to their second win of the week.&nbsp;

Tommy Sacco Jr. grounded out with the bases loaded to plate the first run of the night by either side in the top of the third.

Wichita scored four runs on three hits in the home half of the fourth. On top of a bases-loaded hit-by-pitch by Andrew Cossetti, and a run-scoring double play, Tyler Dearden plated the second and third runs of those four on an opposite-field single to left field. Rubel Cespedes later scored on an infield throwing error an inning later to give the Wind Surge a 5-1 lead through five frames.&nbsp;

Jaylen Nowlin, Michael Martinez, John Stankiewicz, and Cole Pervical combined to hold the Hooks to one hit for the final five innings of the night. Nowlin tallied four punch-outs against a walk through the fifth and sixth, earning him his second win of the season. Martinez escaped a seventh-inning jam, and Stankiewicz and Percival combined to finish it in the ninth.&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (June 12, 2025)—Tyler Dearden knocked a two-RBI double to left field in a 5-1 Wichita Wind Surge victory over the Corpus Christi Hooks at Equity Bank Park. A four-run fourth provided most of the offense for the Wind Surge, who cruised to their second win of the week.&nbsp;Tommy Sacco Jr. grounded out with the bases loaded to plate the first run of the night by either side in the top of the third.Wichita scored four runs on three hits in the home half of the fourth. On top of a bases-loaded hit-by-pitch by Andrew Cossetti, and a run-scoring double play, Tyler Dearden plated the second and third runs of those four on an opposite-field single to left field. Rubel Cespedes later scored on an infield throwing error an inning later to give the Wind Surge a 5-1 lead through five frames.&nbsp;Jaylen Nowlin, Michael Martinez, John Stankiewicz, and Cole Pervical combined to hold the Hooks to one hit for the final five innings of the night. Nowlin tallied four punch-outs against a walk through the fifth and sixth, earning him his second win of the season. Martinez escaped a seventh-inning jam, and Stankiewicz and Percival combined to finish it in the ninth.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Before tonight’s game, Tanner Andrews was signed as a free agent by the Minnesota Twins and assigned to the Wind Surge.&nbsp;</li><li>John Klein made his first home start of the season, giving up just an earned run on three hits with a walk and four strikeouts over four innings.&nbsp;</li><li>Kala’i Rosario is up to a 16 game on base streak.&nbsp;</li><li>Andrew Cossetti has scored in five straight games.&nbsp;</li><li>Tyler Dearden records his seventh multi-hit and fourth multi-RBI game of the season.</li>
 </ul>

Wichita Scores Four In The Fourth On The Way To Win

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, good week of practice up to this point, they have one more tomorrow and these are Phase 3 practices. Next week, we’ll start our official mandatory OTAs. We have a couple – three days of those, so we’ll go from there, but it’s been a good turnout, the guys are working hard. (I) appreciate the improvement that they’re making, especially the young guys. They’re pushing through these things, so it’s a good lead up for them as they get ready for camp coming up here.”

REID:&nbsp;“Raider day, yeah. Chargers yesterday.”

Q: What tells you Kingsley Suamataia is going to be a more productive player in his new spot than he was his rookie year?

REID:&nbsp;“First of all, he (Kingsley Suamataia) has experience and then he looks more comfortable there. He seems to be picking it up well. Not that we’re going full speed contact, but he has an opportunity to go against Chris (Jones) and that’ll surely help him for the season.”

Q: What type of veteran leadership does Gardner Minshew provide for the team?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Gardner Minshew) been there – he’s started, so he’s got that. He’s got the confidence of the guys around him. Patrick (Mahomes) knows he’s been in there and done it, so they can bounce things off of each other. It’s always good to have peers that have played, and you can talk to them about it a little bit. I think on gameday he’ll be great with Patrick, just with what he’s seeing from the sideline and what Pat’s seeing when he’s in there.”

Q: How impressed are you with the attendance for voluntary camp?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, really everybody – for the most part has been here at some point. Some guys have business things they have to run out and do, but for the most part, guys have been here participating, which I’ve been impressed with. I appreciate it.”

Q: How’s Josh Simmons been progressing?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Josh Simmons) doing a nice job. We weren’t sure quite how much we were going to be able to get out of him, but he looks strong. He’s been jumping in and taking the team reps now – which he was just doing the individual stuff before, and you can definitely see the talent. He’s got to keep learning and learn the stuff that (Offensive Line Coach) Andy’s (Heck) teaching him fundamentally and technique-wise, but he sure has a good attitude about it.”

Q: What have you learned about Brashard Smith since he’s been here?

REID:&nbsp;“I like what he (Brashard Smith) does. He’s got good speed and (he’s a) good route runner. That part of his game – for running backs and linebackers, these are kind of tough camps, so we’ll just see how things go once we get to (training) camp but with what we’ve asked him to do, he’s done a good job with it.”

Q: Did Kingsley Suamataia handle last season how you hoped he would?

REID:&nbsp;“It looked like he (Kingsley Suamataia) learned as he went. It was rough, obviously, early and expectations are high. You come into a championship caliber team, and you’re thrown in there at left tackle, it’s not always the easiest thing for a young guy. I think it was a great experience when you – I think it’ll tell itself out as he goes forward.”

Q: What are you looking for with the young guys? Are you more interested in what you see on the practice field or around the building?

REID:&nbsp;“I have to tell you; you probably evaluate all that. You have kind of an eagle eye on them and make sure they’re handling themselves the right way and still giving them the little room to grow in there on their own, but you definitely keep a close eye on them.”

Q: Have you had to tell Josh Simmons to slow down?

REID:&nbsp;“We’ve done that. We’ve done that with him (Josh Simmons) and he’s asked for more and we’ve kind of kept backing him up here and easing him into it. You can tell that he rehabbed – (he) did a nice job with it. Obviously, the people that did the surgery did a nice job with it, so he looks like he – and he’s in good shape. He’s here quite a bit. He’s one of those guys that you have to kind of kick out of the building.”

Q: Is it your expectation that Trey Smith will be participating in mandatory minicamp next week?

REID:&nbsp;“We’ll see. I don’t know that to be honest with you. These things are – we’ll see where it goes.”

Q: What are you looking for when you focus on different position groups during practice?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, if I can give the guys something, just from experience, I try to do that. These guys are great. They’re the best in the world at what they’re doing but if you can give them a little nugget – the great players that I’ve been around, they want that so if I see something, I’ll share it with them. Their coaches do a great job with them but if I see something, I’m going to try to tell them.”

Q: How important is it for you guys to stay innovative and unpredictable?

REID:&nbsp;“I think every coach would probably tell you that, but I think it’s important that you keep growing. There are some lessons (that) you can learn out of that, and I told you before (that) I thought the attitude that they had coming out of that (Super Bowl LIX loss), I look for that. ‘Are you going to take responsibility?’ These guys took responsibility for it. That gives you an opportunity to improve – coaches and players. If you come in and you start pointing the finger at each other, you can’t grow but these guys have done that, and they have had a great attitude this offseason.”

Q: What do you remember about meeting Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo for the first time at UTEP?

REID:&nbsp;“He (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) was real close with that staff and I was kind of the new kid on that staff. They’d already been there a year by the time I got there but everybody respected him, we all knew he was a good coach. Some of the guys, like I said, had worked with him, so over the years I got to know him because of that. That same staff went to Missouri, so Spags was always around visiting, coming down to learn stuff and then to see his friends at the same time.”

Q: Can you talk a little bit about former Assistant Special Teams Coach Andy Hill?

REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, so (former Assistant Special Teams Coach) Andy (Hill) retired to golf and fish – and hunt but he did a great job when he was here. He is Mr. Missouri, he knows everybody (laughs). I’m not just saying that, he knows everybody. He’s got a great attitude, and he has a great relationship with (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator Dave) Toub – and the other coaches but he was very close with Dave. We’ll miss him. (Assistant Special Teams coach) Porter’s (Ellett) moved over to that, who’s a good, young football coach so he’ll do a nice job but again, it was good to have Andy here for the years he was here. He was very well liked.”

Q: What kind of potential do you see in Jalen Royals? Do you see him involved in his rookie year?

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, good week of practice up to this point, they have one more tomorrow and these are Phase 3 practices. Next week, we’ll start our official mandatory OTAs. We have a couple – three days of those, so we’ll go from there, but it’s been a good turnout, the guys are working hard. (I) appreciate the improvement that they’re making, especially the young guys. They’re pushing through these things, so it’s a good lead up for them as they get ready for camp coming up here.”Q: Chargers day today?REID:&nbsp;“Raider day, yeah. Chargers yesterday.”Q: What tells you Kingsley Suamataia is going to be a more productive player in his new spot than he was his rookie year?REID:&nbsp;“First of all, he (Kingsley Suamataia) has experience and then he looks more comfortable there. He seems to be picking it up well. Not that we’re going full speed contact, but he has an opportunity to go against Chris (Jones) and that’ll surely help him for the season.”Q: What type of veteran leadership does Gardner Minshew provide for the team?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Gardner Minshew) been there – he’s started, so he’s got that. He’s got the confidence of the guys around him. Patrick (Mahomes) knows he’s been in there and done it, so they can bounce things off of each other. It’s always good to have peers that have played, and you can talk to them about it a little bit. I think on gameday he’ll be great with Patrick, just with what he’s seeing from the sideline and what Pat’s seeing when he’s in there.”Q: How impressed are you with the attendance for voluntary camp?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, really everybody – for the most part has been here at some point. Some guys have business things they have to run out and do, but for the most part, guys have been here participating, which I’ve been impressed with. I appreciate it.”Q: How’s Josh Simmons been progressing?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (Josh Simmons) doing a nice job. We weren’t sure quite how much we were going to be able to get out of him, but he looks strong. He’s been jumping in and taking the team reps now – which he was just doing the individual stuff before, and you can definitely see the talent. He’s got to keep learning and learn the stuff that (Offensive Line Coach) Andy’s (Heck) teaching him fundamentally and technique-wise, but he sure has a good attitude about it.”Q: What have you learned about Brashard Smith since he’s been here?REID:&nbsp;“I like what he (Brashard Smith) does. He’s got good speed and (he’s a) good route runner. That part of his game – for running backs and linebackers, these are kind of tough camps, so we’ll just see how things go once we get to (training) camp but with what we’ve asked him to do, he’s done a good job with it.”Q: Did Kingsley Suamataia handle last season how you hoped he would?REID:&nbsp;“It looked like he (Kingsley Suamataia) learned as he went. It was rough, obviously, early and expectations are high. You come into a championship caliber team, and you’re thrown in there at left tackle, it’s not always the easiest thing for a young guy. I think it was a great experience when you – I think it’ll tell itself out as he goes forward.”Q: What are you looking for with the young guys? Are you more interested in what you see on the practice field or around the building?REID:&nbsp;“I have to tell you; you probably evaluate all that. You have kind of an eagle eye on them and make sure they’re handling themselves the right way and still giving them the little room to grow in there on their own, but you definitely keep a close eye on them.”Q: Have you had to tell Josh Simmons to slow down?REID:&nbsp;“We’ve done that. We’ve done that with him (Josh Simmons) and he’s asked for more and we’ve kind of kept backing him up here and easing him into it. You can tell that he rehabbed – (he) did a nice job with it. Obviously, the people that did the surgery did a nice job with it, so he looks like he – and he’s in good shape. He’s here quite a bit. He’s one of those guys that you have to kind of kick out of the building.”Q: Is it your expectation that Trey Smith will be participating in mandatory minicamp next week?REID:&nbsp;“We’ll see. I don’t know that to be honest with you. These things are – we’ll see where it goes.”Q: What are you looking for when you focus on different position groups during practice?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, if I can give the guys something, just from experience, I try to do that. These guys are great. They’re the best in the world at what they’re doing but if you can give them a little nugget – the great players that I’ve been around, they want that so if I see something, I’ll share it with them. Their coaches do a great job with them but if I see something, I’m going to try to tell them.”Q: How important is it for you guys to stay innovative and unpredictable?REID:&nbsp;“I think every coach would probably tell you that, but I think it’s important that you keep growing. There are some lessons (that) you can learn out of that, and I told you before (that) I thought the attitude that they had coming out of that (Super Bowl LIX loss), I look for that. ‘Are you going to take responsibility?’ These guys took responsibility for it. That gives you an opportunity to improve – coaches and players. If you come in and you start pointing the finger at each other, you can’t grow but these guys have done that, and they have had a great attitude this offseason.”Q: What do you remember about meeting Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo for the first time at UTEP?REID:&nbsp;“He (Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo) was real close with that staff and I was kind of the new kid on that staff. They’d already been there a year by the time I got there but everybody respected him, we all knew he was a good coach. Some of the guys, like I said, had worked with him, so over the years I got to know him because of that. That same staff went to Missouri, so Spags was always around visiting, coming down to learn stuff and then to see his friends at the same time.”Q: Can you talk a little bit about former Assistant Special Teams Coach Andy Hill?REID:&nbsp;“Yeah, so (former Assistant Special Teams Coach) Andy (Hill) retired to golf and fish – and hunt but he did a great job when he was here. He is Mr. Missouri, he knows everybody (laughs). I’m not just saying that, he knows everybody. He’s got a great attitude, and he has a great relationship with (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator Dave) Toub – and the other coaches but he was very close with Dave. We’ll miss him. (Assistant Special Teams coach) Porter’s (Ellett) moved over to that, who’s a good, young football coach so he’ll do a nice job but again, it was good to have Andy here for the years he was here. He was very well liked.”Q: What kind of potential do you see in Jalen Royals? Do you see him involved in his rookie year?

Chiefs Quotes: 6-12-25

Kansas City, Mo. - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) proudly announces the 2025 Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes for winter sports. This honor recognizes student-athletes in each of the winter sports who have excelled academically, including men's basketball, women's basketball, men's bowling, women's bowling, competitive cheer, competitive dance, men's swimming and diving, women's swimming and diving, men's wrestling and women's wrestling.

Kansas Wesleyan had 30 Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes in the winter season.

Women's Basketball led the way among the winter sports with 12 honorees earning the honor. Men's Basketball had seven, followed by Competitive Cheer, Competitive Dance and Men's Bowling with three each and Women's Bowling with two.

KWU had the second highest total in the KCAC behind Ottawa with 33. KWU had just three less despite having two less sports factoring into the totals. Friends was third with 23, York fourth with 22, Tabor fifth with 20, Avila sixth with 16, Sterling seventh with 14, Bethel eighth with 13, McPherson and Southwestern tied for ninth with 10, and Evangel was 11th with seven.

There were three KCAC institutions - Bethany, Oklahoma Wesleyan and Saint Mary - that did not submit any winter Scholar-Athletes.

To qualify as a Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on the eligibility certificate for their sport, and have attended their institution for at least one full year. This year, the list features an impressive number of student-athletes who have met these rigorous standards.

Kansas City, Mo. - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) proudly announces the 2025 Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes for winter sports. This honor recognizes student-athletes in each of the winter sports who have excelled academically, including men's basketball, women's basketball, men's bowling, women's bowling, competitive cheer, competitive dance, men's swimming and diving, women's swimming and diving, men's wrestling and women's wrestling.Kansas Wesleyan had 30 Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes in the winter season.Women's Basketball led the way among the winter sports with 12 honorees earning the honor. Men's Basketball had seven, followed by Competitive Cheer, Competitive Dance and Men's Bowling with three each and Women's Bowling with two.KWU had the second highest total in the KCAC behind Ottawa with 33. KWU had just three less despite having two less sports factoring into the totals. Friends was third with 23, York fourth with 22, Tabor fifth with 20, Avila sixth with 16, Sterling seventh with 14, Bethel eighth with 13, McPherson and Southwestern tied for ninth with 10, and Evangel was 11th with seven.There were three KCAC institutions - Bethany, Oklahoma Wesleyan and Saint Mary - that did not submit any winter Scholar-Athletes.To qualify as a Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on the eligibility certificate for their sport, and have attended their institution for at least one full year. This year, the list features an impressive number of student-athletes who have met these rigorous standards.

KWU has 30 2024-25 Winter Sports Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pablo Reyes stumbled, stopped and still&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/lucas-erceg-in-play-no-out-to-paul-goldschmidt?q=Yankees&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">scrambled home safely on a wild play</a>&nbsp;in the eighth inning Thursday night, taking advantage of a throwing error by reliever Lucas Erceg to give the New York Yankees a 1-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

New York completed a three-game sweep to finish 6-0 against the Royals this season after eliminating them 3-1 in their best-of-five playoff series last October.

Backed by some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/salvador-perez-grounds-out-shortstop-anthony-volpe-to-first-baseman-paul?q=Yankees&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">brilliant defense,</a>&nbsp;Will Warren and four relievers combined on a five-hitter as the AL East-leading Yankees (42-25) moved a season-high 17 games over .500. They have the best road record in the majors at 21-13.

Mark Leiter Jr. (4-3) got one out for the win, and Devin Williams earned his ninth save with a perfect ninth. He threw a called third strike past Jac Caglianone to end it, freezing the touted rookie with a full-count fastball.

The game was interrupted by rain for 28 minutes in the top of the sixth.

With two on and two outs in the eighth, Paul Goldschmidt lined a single off the glove of leaping first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino. He tracked down the ball behind him and threw to Erceg (1-2) covering first, but Goldschmidt beat the play.

Reyes lost his balance coming around third, changed direction twice and then slid home safely when Erceg bounced his throw to the plate.

Both starters pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Seth Lugo allowed just two hits, while Warren permitted four.

Pasquantino extended his hitting streak to a career-high 12 games and his on-base streak to a career-best 27 games.

New York rested Aaron Judge, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Austin Wells, who were a combined 7 for 23 with three homers and 10 RBIs in the first two games of the series.

The Royals squandered two excellent chances to take their first lead of the series. In the second inning, they had runners on first and second with nobody out. In the fifth, they had a runner at third with one out.

New York swept a season series from the Royals for the third time in their 57-year history. ... The Yankees have won 19 of the past 20 series between the teams.

Yankees LHP Ryan Yarbrough (3-1, 4.17 ERA) faces Boston LHP Garrett Crochet (6-4, 2.35) in the opener of a three-game series Friday night at Fenway Park.

Royals RHP Michael Wacha (3-5, 3.01 ERA) starts Friday at home against Athletics RHP Luis Severino (1-6, 4.77).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749785927566.jpeg" alt="New York Yankees' Pablo Reyes, right, scores against Kansas City Royals catcher Freddy Fermin, left, in the eighth inning of a baseball game Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>New York Yankees' Pablo Reyes, right, scores against Kansas City Royals catcher Freddy Fermin, left, in the eighth inning of a baseball game Thursday, June 12, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pablo Reyes stumbled, stopped and still&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/lucas-erceg-in-play-no-out-to-paul-goldschmidt?q=Yankees&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">scrambled home safely on a wild play</a>&nbsp;in the eighth inning Thursday night, taking advantage of a throwing error by reliever Lucas Erceg to give the New York Yankees a 1-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals.New York completed a three-game sweep to finish 6-0 against the Royals this season after eliminating them 3-1 in their best-of-five playoff series last October.Backed by some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/salvador-perez-grounds-out-shortstop-anthony-volpe-to-first-baseman-paul?q=Yankees&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">brilliant defense,</a>&nbsp;Will Warren and four relievers combined on a five-hitter as the AL East-leading Yankees (42-25) moved a season-high 17 games over .500. They have the best road record in the majors at 21-13.Mark Leiter Jr. (4-3) got one out for the win, and Devin Williams earned his ninth save with a perfect ninth. He threw a called third strike past Jac Caglianone to end it, freezing the touted rookie with a full-count fastball.The game was interrupted by rain for 28 minutes in the top of the sixth.With two on and two outs in the eighth, Paul Goldschmidt lined a single off the glove of leaping first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino. He tracked down the ball behind him and threw to Erceg (1-2) covering first, but Goldschmidt beat the play.Reyes lost his balance coming around third, changed direction twice and then slid home safely when Erceg bounced his throw to the plate.Both starters pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Seth Lugo allowed just two hits, while Warren permitted four.Pasquantino extended his hitting streak to a career-high 12 games and his on-base streak to a career-best 27 games.New York rested Aaron Judge, Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Austin Wells, who were a combined 7 for 23 with three homers and 10 RBIs in the first two games of the series.<h2>Key moments</h2>The Royals squandered two excellent chances to take their first lead of the series. In the second inning, they had runners on first and second with nobody out. In the fifth, they had a runner at third with one out.<h2>Key stat</h2>New York swept a season series from the Royals for the third time in their 57-year history. ... The Yankees have won 19 of the past 20 series between the teams.<h2>Up next</h2>Yankees LHP Ryan Yarbrough (3-1, 4.17 ERA) faces Boston LHP Garrett Crochet (6-4, 2.35) in the opener of a three-game series Friday night at Fenway Park.Royals RHP Michael Wacha (3-5, 3.01 ERA) starts Friday at home against Athletics RHP Luis Severino (1-6, 4.77).

⚾ Yankees score late run to edge Royals and complete season sweep

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Big 12 announced the Conference scheduling matrix for the 2025-26 Women’s Basketball season, as K-State will face traditional rivals Iowa State and Kansas twice and Houston twice as part of its league slate.

Teams will play three Big 12 opponents twice, then play the other 12 conference opponents one time, for a total of 18 Conference games.

Opponents were selected based on a combination of geography, historical results and a poll of the coaches to best balance the schedule in terms of travel and competitiveness. A full Big 12 schedule will be released at a later date.

In addition to its home games against Houston, Iowa State and Kansas, the Wildcats will host BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah and West Virginia.

In combination with road games with the Cougars, Cyclones and Jayhawks, K-State will make road trips to Arizona, Arizona State, Baylor, UCF, TCU and Texas Tech.

The 2026 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship will be contested at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, March 4-8, 2025. Ticket information will be available later this year.

The Wildcats enter the 2025-26 season with the returns of fifth-year senior forward Kennedy Taylor and junior guard Taryn Sides. She will be joined transfers Izela Arenas, Jenessa Cotton, Tess Heal and Ramiya White and a freshmen class of Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod and Jordan Speiser.

K-State women’s basketball season tickets for the 2025-26 season are available now. For more information on season ticket packages for the Wildcats’ home schedule, contact the K-State Athletics Ticket Office by calling 1-800-221-CATS or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

2025-26 Kansas State Big 12 Opponents

Home-and-Away: Houston, Iowa State, Kansas

Home-only: BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah, West Virginia

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Big 12 announced the Conference scheduling matrix for the 2025-26 Women’s Basketball season, as K-State will face traditional rivals Iowa State and Kansas twice and Houston twice as part of its league slate.Teams will play three Big 12 opponents twice, then play the other 12 conference opponents one time, for a total of 18 Conference games.Opponents were selected based on a combination of geography, historical results and a poll of the coaches to best balance the schedule in terms of travel and competitiveness. A full Big 12 schedule will be released at a later date.In addition to its home games against Houston, Iowa State and Kansas, the Wildcats will host BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah and West Virginia.In combination with road games with the Cougars, Cyclones and Jayhawks, K-State will make road trips to Arizona, Arizona State, Baylor, UCF, TCU and Texas Tech.The 2026 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship will be contested at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, March 4-8, 2025. Ticket information will be available later this year.The Wildcats enter the 2025-26 season with the returns of fifth-year senior forward Kennedy Taylor and junior guard Taryn Sides. She will be joined transfers Izela Arenas, Jenessa Cotton, Tess Heal and Ramiya White and a freshmen class of Aniya Foy, Gina Garcia, Brandie Harrod and Jordan Speiser.K-State women’s basketball season tickets for the 2025-26 season are available now. For more information on season ticket packages for the Wildcats’ home schedule, contact the K-State Athletics Ticket Office by calling 1-800-221-CATS or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.2025-26 Kansas State Big 12 OpponentsHome-and-Away: Houston, Iowa State, KansasHome-only: BYU, Cincinnati, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Utah, West Virginia

K-State Announces League Opponents for 2025-26 Big 12 Schedule

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Aaron Judge homered for the third consecutive game, Clarke Schmidt allowed just two hits over six innings, and the New York Yankees cruised to a 6-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.

Paul Goldschmidt added a pair of RBIs during a five-run second inning for New York, which improved to 5-0 against the Royals this season. The Yankees are are 12-3 against them since the start of last season, including their playoff series win.

Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer during a three-run ninth for Kansas City.

Schmidt (3-3) allowed one runner to reach second base, and that was courtesy of his own balk that advanced Maikel Garcia in the first inning. He also struck out seven to remain unbeaten in six regular-season appearances against the Royals. Devin Williams got the final two outs for his eighth save.

Kris Bubic (5-4) looked like he might be in for a duel with Schmidt after a perfect first inning. But he proceeded to allow five runs on four hits and two walks during the second, and ultimately six hits and four walks in just 4 1/3 innings.

Judge's homer off Steven Cruz came on the heels of a two-homer game Sunday against Boston and a 469-foot shot in the series opener against Kansas City on Tuesday night. The two-time MVP has eight RBIs over the three-game span.

Until Perez's homer, the biggest highlight for the Royals came in the fifth inning, when the Yankees loaded the bases with one out. DJ LeMahieu hit a sharp grounder to third base, where Garcia fielded it while falling to his rump. He threw to second from his back side, and a relay by Jonathan India to first base resulted in an inning-ending double play.

Jazz Chisholm, who later left the game with left groin tightness, drew a walk in the second inning after plate umpire Lance Barrett called what would have been the third strike a questionable ball. The Yankees capitalized on their fortunes, sending 10 batters to the plate in what became the decisive inning.

The Royals (34-34) are 10-18 after going on a 16-2 run in April and May.

Yankees RHP Will Warren (4-3, 5.34) starts the series finale Thursday night. RHP Seth Lugo (3-5, 3.46) goes for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749730901887.jpeg" alt="New York Yankees' Aaron Judge hits a home run in the seventh inning during a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>New York Yankees' Aaron Judge hits a home run in the seventh inning during a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Aaron Judge homered for the third consecutive game, Clarke Schmidt allowed just two hits over six innings, and the New York Yankees cruised to a 6-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.Paul Goldschmidt added a pair of RBIs during a five-run second inning for New York, which improved to 5-0 against the Royals this season. The Yankees are are 12-3 against them since the start of last season, including their playoff series win.Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer during a three-run ninth for Kansas City.Schmidt (3-3) allowed one runner to reach second base, and that was courtesy of his own balk that advanced Maikel Garcia in the first inning. He also struck out seven to remain unbeaten in six regular-season appearances against the Royals. Devin Williams got the final two outs for his eighth save.Kris Bubic (5-4) looked like he might be in for a duel with Schmidt after a perfect first inning. But he proceeded to allow five runs on four hits and two walks during the second, and ultimately six hits and four walks in just 4 1/3 innings.Judge's homer off Steven Cruz came on the heels of a two-homer game Sunday against Boston and a 469-foot shot in the series opener against Kansas City on Tuesday night. The two-time MVP has eight RBIs over the three-game span.Until Perez's homer, the biggest highlight for the Royals came in the fifth inning, when the Yankees loaded the bases with one out. DJ LeMahieu hit a sharp grounder to third base, where Garcia fielded it while falling to his rump. He threw to second from his back side, and a relay by Jonathan India to first base resulted in an inning-ending double play.<h2>Key moment</h2>Jazz Chisholm, who later left the game with left groin tightness, drew a walk in the second inning after plate umpire Lance Barrett called what would have been the third strike a questionable ball. The Yankees capitalized on their fortunes, sending 10 batters to the plate in what became the decisive inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals (34-34) are 10-18 after going on a 16-2 run in April and May.<h2>Up next</h2>Yankees RHP Will Warren (4-3, 5.34) starts the series finale Thursday night. RHP Seth Lugo (3-5, 3.46) goes for Kansas City.

⚾ Aaron Judge homers in third straight game as Yankees beat the Royals

The Wichita Wind Surge will host Major League Baseball’s PLAY BALL baseball clinic this Friday.&nbsp; The PLAYBALL initiative, encourages participation in the sports of baseball and softball amongst all ages, with a special focus on youth.

The free clinic will be at Equity Bank Park this Friday, June 13th&nbsp;from 10AM-noon.&nbsp; Check in will start at 9:15am at the Maple Street entrance of the ballpark.&nbsp;&nbsp; The goal of the program is to spread the game of baseball and offer resources for kids who are underserved with a passion for the game.

Wind Surge players, coaches and front office staff will provide hands-on skill development during three different sessions in which participants received free instruction on hitting, fielding and base running.

PLAY BALL events will take place across 30 MLB teams, 120 MILB teams and seven different continents.&nbsp; Many Major League Baseball teams and Minor League Baseball clubs will be hosting events, clinics, and activities to celebrate the game this weekend.

Spots are limited and parents are encouraged to register their child in advance.&nbsp; Kids will receive goody bags, free lunch and autograph opportunities.&nbsp;

The Wichita Wind Surge will host Major League Baseball’s PLAY BALL baseball clinic this Friday.&nbsp; The PLAYBALL initiative, encourages participation in the sports of baseball and softball amongst all ages, with a special focus on youth.The free clinic will be at Equity Bank Park this Friday, June 13th&nbsp;from 10AM-noon.&nbsp; Check in will start at 9:15am at the Maple Street entrance of the ballpark.&nbsp;&nbsp; The goal of the program is to spread the game of baseball and offer resources for kids who are underserved with a passion for the game.Wind Surge players, coaches and front office staff will provide hands-on skill development during three different sessions in which participants received free instruction on hitting, fielding and base running.PLAY BALL events will take place across 30 MLB teams, 120 MILB teams and seven different continents.&nbsp; Many Major League Baseball teams and Minor League Baseball clubs will be hosting events, clinics, and activities to celebrate the game this weekend.Spots are limited and parents are encouraged to register their child in advance.&nbsp; Kids will receive goody bags, free lunch and autograph opportunities.&nbsp;

Wind Surge to host MLB's Play Ball Clinic on Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Wells hit a three-run homer and finished with five RBIs, Aaron Judge hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-yankees-kansas-city-royals-2ea322cc91d74f45eb79b63a232dc463">the third-longest homer</a>&nbsp;in the majors this season, and the New York Yankees routed the Kansas City Royals 10-2 on Tuesday night.

Max Fried (9-1) bounced back from his first loss of the season, pitching seven innings of two-run ball for New York.

Wells homered on a full-count pitch from Noah Cameron (2-2) with two outs in the fourth inning, then added a two-run double in the sixth after a 10-pitch duel with Taylor Clarke. He matched his career high for RBIs in a game.

Judge's two-run homer in the first had an exit velocity of 117.9 mph and traveled 469 feet, landing on the roof of the Royals Hall of Fame in left field. Only the Angels' Mike Trout and Logan O'Hoppe have hit longer home runs this season.

Judge added a bloop RBI single in the sixth inning, when the Yankees put the game away with five more runs off the Kansas City bullpen. Cody Bellinger drove in one of them with the 1,000th hit of his career.

Cameron wound up allowing six runs and seven hits over 5 2/3 innings. It was the first time in the left-hander's first six big league starts that he allowed more than one run or failed to make it through six innings.

Jac Caglianone singled and had an RBI groundout in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-royals-jac-caglianone-b91fc63d53d5aa12ec0283b72e8f7f14">his home debut</a>&nbsp;for Kansas City. Jonathan India homered in the sixth, and Tyler Tolbert singled in the eighth for his first big league hit.

Judge's homer sent a shock through a star-studded crowd. Among those at Kauffman Stadium were Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Hall of Famers George Brett and Reggie Jackson, and actor and noted Yankees fan Alfonso Ribeiro.

Judge has reached safely in 61 of 65 games this season, including every game the Yankees have played on the road.

RHP Clarke Schmidt (2-3, 4.04 ERA) starts Tuesday night for New York. LHP Kris Bubic (5-3, 1.43 ERA) gets the nod for Kansas City.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Austin Wells hit a three-run homer and finished with five RBIs, Aaron Judge hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-yankees-kansas-city-royals-2ea322cc91d74f45eb79b63a232dc463">the third-longest homer</a>&nbsp;in the majors this season, and the New York Yankees routed the Kansas City Royals 10-2 on Tuesday night.Max Fried (9-1) bounced back from his first loss of the season, pitching seven innings of two-run ball for New York.Wells homered on a full-count pitch from Noah Cameron (2-2) with two outs in the fourth inning, then added a two-run double in the sixth after a 10-pitch duel with Taylor Clarke. He matched his career high for RBIs in a game.Judge's two-run homer in the first had an exit velocity of 117.9 mph and traveled 469 feet, landing on the roof of the Royals Hall of Fame in left field. Only the Angels' Mike Trout and Logan O'Hoppe have hit longer home runs this season.Judge added a bloop RBI single in the sixth inning, when the Yankees put the game away with five more runs off the Kansas City bullpen. Cody Bellinger drove in one of them with the 1,000th hit of his career.Cameron wound up allowing six runs and seven hits over 5 2/3 innings. It was the first time in the left-hander's first six big league starts that he allowed more than one run or failed to make it through six innings.Jac Caglianone singled and had an RBI groundout in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-royals-jac-caglianone-b91fc63d53d5aa12ec0283b72e8f7f14">his home debut</a>&nbsp;for Kansas City. Jonathan India homered in the sixth, and Tyler Tolbert singled in the eighth for his first big league hit.<h2>Key moment</h2>Judge's homer sent a shock through a star-studded crowd. Among those at Kauffman Stadium were Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Hall of Famers George Brett and Reggie Jackson, and actor and noted Yankees fan Alfonso Ribeiro.<h2>Key stat</h2>Judge has reached safely in 61 of 65 games this season, including every game the Yankees have played on the road.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Clarke Schmidt (2-3, 4.04 ERA) starts Tuesday night for New York. LHP Kris Bubic (5-3, 1.43 ERA) gets the nod for Kansas City.

⚾ Judge's 469-foot homer powers Yankees to rout of Royals in series opener

WICHITA, Kan. (June 10, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti homered twice as the Wichita Wind Surge powered their way to an 8-2 win in the series opener over the Corpus Christi Hooks at Equity Bank Park. The Wind Surge scored in four straight frames between the fourth and seventh for seven of their eight scores.&nbsp;

Edwin Díaz lifted a solo home run into the Wind Surge bullpen in the top of the first for Corpus Christi to get on the board early. Andrew Cossetti responded with a round-tripper to center in the home half of the second to tie the game.&nbsp;

John Garcia homered in the top of the fourth, and then Aaron Sabato did so to knot the game up again in the bottom half of the frame. Ben Ross then singled to center to drive in Rubel Cespedes to give Wichita a 3-2 lead through four innings. The two runs in the fourth marked the first of four straight frames.

Rubel Cespedes and Kyler Fedko singled home a baserunner each in the fifth and sixth innings. Cespedes later pulled a two-run long ball to right center after the stretch in the seventh, and Cossetti crushed one to left to mark back-to-back home runs and an 8-2 Wichita lead that held the rest of the way.&nbsp;

Cole Percival, Jacob Wosinski, and Michael Martinez held the Hooks to just two hits over the final five innings, with Percival earning the victory in his debut with the Wind Surge after two innings of one-hit baseball with a punch out.&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (June 10, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti homered twice as the Wichita Wind Surge powered their way to an 8-2 win in the series opener over the Corpus Christi Hooks at Equity Bank Park. The Wind Surge scored in four straight frames between the fourth and seventh for seven of their eight scores.&nbsp;Edwin Díaz lifted a solo home run into the Wind Surge bullpen in the top of the first for Corpus Christi to get on the board early. Andrew Cossetti responded with a round-tripper to center in the home half of the second to tie the game.&nbsp;John Garcia homered in the top of the fourth, and then Aaron Sabato did so to knot the game up again in the bottom half of the frame. Ben Ross then singled to center to drive in Rubel Cespedes to give Wichita a 3-2 lead through four innings. The two runs in the fourth marked the first of four straight frames.Rubel Cespedes and Kyler Fedko singled home a baserunner each in the fifth and sixth innings. Cespedes later pulled a two-run long ball to right center after the stretch in the seventh, and Cossetti crushed one to left to mark back-to-back home runs and an 8-2 Wichita lead that held the rest of the way.&nbsp;Cole Percival, Jacob Wosinski, and Michael Martinez held the Hooks to just two hits over the final five innings, with Percival earning the victory in his debut with the Wind Surge after two innings of one-hit baseball with a punch out.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Before today’s game, Trent Baker and Noah Cardenas got called up to Triple-A St. Paul. Nate Baez joined Wichita from High-A Cedar Rapids as the corresponding move within the Twins system.&nbsp;</li><li>Aaron Sabato is up to a 27 game on base streak.&nbsp;</li><li>Andrew Cossetti has hit home runs in back-to-back games dating back to Sunday.&nbsp;</li><li>Rubel Cespedes and Andrew Cossetti are the third different pair of Wichita teammates to hit home runs in back-to-back at-bats this season (Aaron Sabato/Tyler Dearden on April 18, Tanner Schobel and Ricardo Olivar on May 1), but they are the first two to record the feat at Equity Bank Park.&nbsp;</li><li>The 16 home wins by the Wind Surge tie for the most in the Texas League North with Tulsa.</li>
 </ul>

Wichita Homers Four Times To Series Opening Win Over Corpus Christi

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;has been named the American League Player of the Week presented by Chevrolet for the period of June 2-8. This is Pasquantino’s second career weekly honor, and first since Aug. 8-14, 2022. He is the Royals first AL Player of the Week winner this season, and first since&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;won twice last year, from May 20-26 and July 15-21.

Vinnie tied for the Major League lead last week in batting average (.500) and hits (13) with Athletics shortstop&nbsp;Jacob Wilson. He also tied four others for the most go-ahead RBI (3) in the AL, while ranking 2nd in total bases (20), 3rd in on-base percentage (.536) and OPS (1.305), tied for 4th in RBI (7) and 5th in slugging percentage (.769).

Pasquantino hit safely in all 6 games last week, including 4 multi-hit efforts. He drove in at least 1 run in 5 consecutive games from Tuesday-Saturday, including 2 RBI in&nbsp;back-to-back games in St. Louis on Tuesday and Game 1 of Thursday’s doubleheader. He homered in consecutive games Friday and Saturday at Rate Field in Chicago, including back-to-back home runs with&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;on Friday night that flipped a 0-1 deficit into a 2-1 lead. Entering play this week, he carries both a 9-game hitting streak and a career-long 24-game on-base streak that dates back to May 12. Only Cleveland’s&nbsp;José Ramírez’s&nbsp;active 34-game on-base streak is longer.

He also played error-free defense, converting 40 total chances in 5 games at first base, including&nbsp;<a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/sporty-videos?playId=fd6fdf5c-eec3-3c9e-942f-882ab0daff51&amp;videoType=AWAY" target="_blank">this web gem</a>&nbsp;in which he robbed former-Royal&nbsp;Andrew Benintendi&nbsp;of a base hit with a dive to his right, before spinning and firing a strike to&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;covering first base.

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;has been named the American League Player of the Week presented by Chevrolet for the period of June 2-8. This is Pasquantino’s second career weekly honor, and first since Aug. 8-14, 2022. He is the Royals first AL Player of the Week winner this season, and first since&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;won twice last year, from May 20-26 and July 15-21.Vinnie tied for the Major League lead last week in batting average (.500) and hits (13) with Athletics shortstop&nbsp;Jacob Wilson. He also tied four others for the most go-ahead RBI (3) in the AL, while ranking 2nd in total bases (20), 3rd in on-base percentage (.536) and OPS (1.305), tied for 4th in RBI (7) and 5th in slugging percentage (.769).Pasquantino hit safely in all 6 games last week, including 4 multi-hit efforts. He drove in at least 1 run in 5 consecutive games from Tuesday-Saturday, including 2 RBI in&nbsp;back-to-back games in St. Louis on Tuesday and Game 1 of Thursday’s doubleheader. He homered in consecutive games Friday and Saturday at Rate Field in Chicago, including back-to-back home runs with&nbsp;Maikel Garcia&nbsp;on Friday night that flipped a 0-1 deficit into a 2-1 lead. Entering play this week, he carries both a 9-game hitting streak and a career-long 24-game on-base streak that dates back to May 12. Only Cleveland’s&nbsp;José Ramírez’s&nbsp;active 34-game on-base streak is longer.He also played error-free defense, converting 40 total chances in 5 games at first base, including&nbsp;<a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/sporty-videos?playId=fd6fdf5c-eec3-3c9e-942f-882ab0daff51&amp;videoType=AWAY" target="_blank">this web gem</a>&nbsp;in which he robbed former-Royal&nbsp;Andrew Benintendi&nbsp;of a base hit with a dive to his right, before spinning and firing a strike to&nbsp;Seth Lugo&nbsp;covering first base.

Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino named AL Player of the Week

CHICAGO (AP) — Jonathan India hit a tiebreaking double in Kansas City's two-run seventh inning, and the Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 7-5 on Sunday to avoid a series sweep.

Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr. each hit a two-run homer for Kansas City, which had lost three of four. Jac Caglianone went 4 for 4 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-jac-caglianone-7cf37caa0c43f86a4cfb462cb8689512">his sixth major league game</a>.

The Royals also got a big lift from Michael Lorenzen (4-6), who pitched six effective innings for his first win since April 29. The right-hander went 0-3 with a 6.89 ERA in his previous six starts.

Miguel Vargas homered and drove in three runs for Chicago, which had won three in a row, matching a season high.

Vargas drew a bases-loaded walk and Edgar Quero added an RBI single as the White Sox rallied for three runs in the ninth. But then Witt robbed Austin Slater of a run-scoring hit with a terrific diving catch at shortstop.

With two out and the bases loaded, Carlos Estévez earned his 19th save when he struck out Tim Elko swinging.

White Sox right-hander Mike Vasil allowed two runs and five hits over 3 1/3 innings in his first major league start.

Perez's fifth homer tied it at 2 in the fourth, and the Royals went ahead to stay in the seventh.

India drove in pinch-runner Drew Waters with a grounder down the third base line. After Witt popped out, Maikel Garcia made it 4-2 with an RBI single off Jordan Leasure.

India tacked on a run-scoring single in the ninth.

Tyler Alexander (3-6) took the loss in his first game with Chicago, allowing one run and five hits in three innings. The lefty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-mlb-5177234aef93c9fe46b1288e176e1ec2">signed a one-year deal</a>&nbsp;with the White Sox before the game.

The Royals finished with 16 hits, but they hit into five double plays.

Witt made it 7-2 when he connected for his eighth homer in the ninth against Bryse Wilson.

Caglianone went 2 for 21 in his first five games with Kansas City.

Royals: Following an off day, LHP Noah Cameron (2-1, 0.85 ERA) starts Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series at home against the New York Yankees.

White Sox: RHP Shane Smith (2-3, 2.45 ERA) takes the mound Tuesday night at Houston. RHP Lance McCullers Jr. (1-1, 4.44) starts for the Astros.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749426413335.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Jonathan India hit a tiebreaking double in Kansas City's two-run seventh inning, and the Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 7-5 on Sunday to avoid a series sweep.Salvador Perez and Bobby Witt Jr. each hit a two-run homer for Kansas City, which had lost three of four. Jac Caglianone went 4 for 4 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-jac-caglianone-7cf37caa0c43f86a4cfb462cb8689512">his sixth major league game</a>.The Royals also got a big lift from Michael Lorenzen (4-6), who pitched six effective innings for his first win since April 29. The right-hander went 0-3 with a 6.89 ERA in his previous six starts.Miguel Vargas homered and drove in three runs for Chicago, which had won three in a row, matching a season high.Vargas drew a bases-loaded walk and Edgar Quero added an RBI single as the White Sox rallied for three runs in the ninth. But then Witt robbed Austin Slater of a run-scoring hit with a terrific diving catch at shortstop.With two out and the bases loaded, Carlos Estévez earned his 19th save when he struck out Tim Elko swinging.White Sox right-hander Mike Vasil allowed two runs and five hits over 3 1/3 innings in his first major league start.Perez's fifth homer tied it at 2 in the fourth, and the Royals went ahead to stay in the seventh.India drove in pinch-runner Drew Waters with a grounder down the third base line. After Witt popped out, Maikel Garcia made it 4-2 with an RBI single off Jordan Leasure.India tacked on a run-scoring single in the ninth.Tyler Alexander (3-6) took the loss in his first game with Chicago, allowing one run and five hits in three innings. The lefty&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-mlb-5177234aef93c9fe46b1288e176e1ec2">signed a one-year deal</a>&nbsp;with the White Sox before the game.The Royals finished with 16 hits, but they hit into five double plays.<h2>Key moment</h2>Witt made it 7-2 when he connected for his eighth homer in the ninth against Bryse Wilson.<h2>Key stat</h2>Caglianone went 2 for 21 in his first five games with Kansas City.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals: Following an off day, LHP Noah Cameron (2-1, 0.85 ERA) starts Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game series at home against the New York Yankees.White Sox: RHP Shane Smith (2-3, 2.45 ERA) takes the mound Tuesday night at Houston. RHP Lance McCullers Jr. (1-1, 4.44) starts for the Astros.___

⚾India hits a tiebreaking double as the Royals beat the White Sox

CHICAGO (AP) — Tim Elko hit a two-run homer, Adrian Houser pitched six strong innings and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 on Saturday.

Chase Meidroth also went deep for the White Sox, who have won three straight for the second time this season.

Houser (2-1) gave up a run and six hits while striking out six and walking one. It was the 32-year-old right-hander's fourth quality start since signing with the White Sox on May 20.

Cam Booser and Steven Wilson each gave up a hit in a scoreless inning, and Dan Altavilla got the last three outs for his second career save — first since 2020 while pitching for Seattle.

Michael Wacha (3-5) allowed three runs and six hits in six innings. He walked one and struck out five.

Royals first baseman Vinny Pasquantino had was 3 for 3, including his 10th homer in the second inning for a 1-0 lead.

Elko's homer in the bottom of the second gave the White Sox a 2-1 lead. Meidroth pushed the advantage to two runs with his shot in the third, and Edgar Quero capped the scoring with a sacrifice fly in the eighth.

With runners on the corners and two outs in the eighth, Wilson struck out veteran catcher Salvador Pérez swinging to end the inning. Pérez struck out four times in four at-bats.

Other than Pasquantino, the rest of the Royals' lineup went 5 for 30 with nine strikeouts.

CHICAGO (AP) — Tim Elko hit a two-run homer, Adrian Houser pitched six strong innings and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 on Saturday.Chase Meidroth also went deep for the White Sox, who have won three straight for the second time this season.Houser (2-1) gave up a run and six hits while striking out six and walking one. It was the 32-year-old right-hander's fourth quality start since signing with the White Sox on May 20.Cam Booser and Steven Wilson each gave up a hit in a scoreless inning, and Dan Altavilla got the last three outs for his second career save — first since 2020 while pitching for Seattle.Michael Wacha (3-5) allowed three runs and six hits in six innings. He walked one and struck out five.Royals first baseman Vinny Pasquantino had was 3 for 3, including his 10th homer in the second inning for a 1-0 lead.Elko's homer in the bottom of the second gave the White Sox a 2-1 lead. Meidroth pushed the advantage to two runs with his shot in the third, and Edgar Quero capped the scoring with a sacrifice fly in the eighth.<h2>Key moment</h2>With runners on the corners and two outs in the eighth, Wilson struck out veteran catcher Salvador Pérez swinging to end the inning. Pérez struck out four times in four at-bats.<h2>Key stat</h2>Other than Pasquantino, the rest of the Royals' lineup went 5 for 30 with nine strikeouts.<h2>Up next</h2>

⚾ Elko hits 2-run HR as White Sox beat the Royals 

CHICAGO (AP) — Luis Robert Jr. drove in three runs in his return to the lineup, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Friday night.

Mike Tauchman homered to help the last-place White Sox to their third win in four games. Davis Martin struck out seven while pitching six innings of two-run ball.

White Sox catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-teel-5483da186d1af7e30bbcf366df4c3609">Kyle Teel</a>, one of baseball's top prospects, went 1 for 2 with two walks and scored a run in his major league debut.

Robert hit a tiebreaking two-run single in Chicago's five-run eighth inning. He also had a run-scoring single in the second.

It was Robert's first game since Monday. The slumping slugger has been working on some adjustments at the plate, and he got an extra day after he was struck on his head by a ball in the batting cage.

The White Sox beat the Royals for the second time in the last 20 matchups.

Maikel Garcia and Vinnie Pasquantino hit back-to-back homers for Kansas City with two out in the third inning. It was the seventh of the season for Garcia, and No. 9 for Pasquantino.

Tauchman tied it at 2 when he connected against Seth Lugo in the fifth.

The White Sox loaded the bases with one out in the eighth, and Robert drove in pinch-runner Michael A. Taylor and Austin Slater with a bloop single to right against Jonathan Bowlan (1-1).

Teel scored on Taylor Clarke’s wild pitch, and errors on third baseman Garcia and Clarke brought home two more runs.

Jordan Leasure (1-4) pitched an inning for the win.

Royals rookie Jac Caglianone went 0 for 4. He is 1 for 17 in his first four games.

Leasure walked Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. singled as Kansas City put the first two on in the eighth. Teel pounced on a bunt by Garcia and got the first out at third. Witt took third on a fielder’s choice before Salvador Perez fouled out, ending the inning.

The Royals swept a four-game home series with the White Sox from May 5-8 and outscored them 19-4. Chicago leads the all-time series 440-434.

Royals right-hander Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.88 ERA) starts Saturday against White Sox right-hander Adrian Houser (1-1, 1.47 ERA).

CHICAGO (AP) — Luis Robert Jr. drove in three runs in his return to the lineup, and the Chicago White Sox beat the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Friday night.Mike Tauchman homered to help the last-place White Sox to their third win in four games. Davis Martin struck out seven while pitching six innings of two-run ball.White Sox catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-sox-teel-5483da186d1af7e30bbcf366df4c3609">Kyle Teel</a>, one of baseball's top prospects, went 1 for 2 with two walks and scored a run in his major league debut.Robert hit a tiebreaking two-run single in Chicago's five-run eighth inning. He also had a run-scoring single in the second.It was Robert's first game since Monday. The slumping slugger has been working on some adjustments at the plate, and he got an extra day after he was struck on his head by a ball in the batting cage.The White Sox beat the Royals for the second time in the last 20 matchups.Maikel Garcia and Vinnie Pasquantino hit back-to-back homers for Kansas City with two out in the third inning. It was the seventh of the season for Garcia, and No. 9 for Pasquantino.Tauchman tied it at 2 when he connected against Seth Lugo in the fifth.The White Sox loaded the bases with one out in the eighth, and Robert drove in pinch-runner Michael A. Taylor and Austin Slater with a bloop single to right against Jonathan Bowlan (1-1).Teel scored on Taylor Clarke’s wild pitch, and errors on third baseman Garcia and Clarke brought home two more runs.Jordan Leasure (1-4) pitched an inning for the win.Royals rookie Jac Caglianone went 0 for 4. He is 1 for 17 in his first four games.<h2>Key moment</h2>Leasure walked Jonathan India and Bobby Witt Jr. singled as Kansas City put the first two on in the eighth. Teel pounced on a bunt by Garcia and got the first out at third. Witt took third on a fielder’s choice before Salvador Perez fouled out, ending the inning.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals swept a four-game home series with the White Sox from May 5-8 and outscored them 19-4. Chicago leads the all-time series 440-434.<h2>Up next</h2>Royals right-hander Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.88 ERA) starts Saturday against White Sox right-hander Adrian Houser (1-1, 1.47 ERA).

⚾ Robert drives in 3 runs as the White Sox beat the Royals

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs, in partnership with Nike, will be hosting eight high school football teams for an “11-On” competition at Paragon Star (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/1401+NW+River+Road?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">1401 NW River Road</a>) in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, on Monday, June 9.

The “11-On" initiative is a unique, half-day, team experience that supports scholastic high school football team competition. It focuses on building character and life skills along with team foundations throughout the exciting, fast-paced, competitive event.

The event begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m., with different schools participating throughout the day. The event format includes multiple 7-on-7 games going on along with position-specific drills being conducted in alternating drill stations to work on skills and technique.

Chiefs “11-On” powered by Nike is open to the public and is free to attend, whether you have a family member or friend competing, or are just a football fan.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Kansas City Chiefs, in partnership with Nike, will be hosting eight high school football teams for an “11-On” competition at Paragon Star (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/1401+NW+River+Road?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank">1401 NW River Road</a>) in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, on Monday, June 9.The “11-On" initiative is a unique, half-day, team experience that supports scholastic high school football team competition. It focuses on building character and life skills along with team foundations throughout the exciting, fast-paced, competitive event.The participating schools include:<ul>
 <li>Blue Valley North High School</li><li>Washington High School</li><li>St. James Academy Catholic High School</li><li>Olathe East High School</li><li>Platte County High School</li><li>Oak Park High School</li><li>Lee’s Summit North High School</li><li>Park Hill High School</li>
 </ul>The event begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m., with different schools participating throughout the day. The event format includes multiple 7-on-7 games going on along with position-specific drills being conducted in alternating drill stations to work on skills and technique.Chiefs “11-On” powered by Nike is open to the public and is free to attend, whether you have a family member or friend competing, or are just a football fan.

Chiefs hosting “11-on” powered by Nike high school football event in Lee's Summit

SPRINGDALE, Ark. (June 5, 2025)—Aaron Sabato became the new Wichita Wind Surge franchise home run leader and recorded five RBIs in a 10-8 slugfest victory for Wichita over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Arvest Ballpark. Seven of the 10 runs for the Wind Surge came in over the last three innings on eight total hits.&nbsp;

Sabato connected on a double off the wall in left center to score Kala’i Rosario for the game’s first run in the top of the first. Carter Jensen hit a sacrifice fly to the warning track in the bottom of the first, and Rudy Martin ran in to score from second base to tie the game.&nbsp;

Sabato crushed a two-run home run, his sixth of the season, over the Wind Surge bullpen in left field to give Wichita a 3-1 lead in the top of the fourth. The long ball puts him as the new Wind Surge all-time home run hitter in franchise history.

Northwest Arkansas put up three runs on a pair of opposite-field hits across the bottom halves of the fourth and fifth frames. Jordan Groshans lined an RBI single to right in the fourth, and Jensen grounded a two-RBI knock to left to give the Naturals a 4-3 lead in the fifth.&nbsp;

The Wind Surge responded with two runs to open each the seventh and eighth, and three tallies in the top ninth to get to a 10-4 lead. Five of the eight hits across those three innings went for extra bases, including another two-run home run by Sabato and a solo shot by Jorel Ortega in the top of the ninth.&nbsp;

A bases-loaded walk and a Jensen bases-clearing double brought the tying run to the plate for Northwest Arkansas in the bottom of the ninth. John Stankiewicz entered from the bullpen and struck out Groshans and Brett Squires to end the game with a 10-8 Wichita final and his third save of the year.

Angel Macuare records his second win of the season after throwing three innings of relief and giving up an earned run on two hits with two walks and three strikeouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

SPRINGDALE, Ark. (June 5, 2025)—Aaron Sabato became the new Wichita Wind Surge franchise home run leader and recorded five RBIs in a 10-8 slugfest victory for Wichita over the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at Arvest Ballpark. Seven of the 10 runs for the Wind Surge came in over the last three innings on eight total hits.&nbsp;Sabato connected on a double off the wall in left center to score Kala’i Rosario for the game’s first run in the top of the first. Carter Jensen hit a sacrifice fly to the warning track in the bottom of the first, and Rudy Martin ran in to score from second base to tie the game.&nbsp;Sabato crushed a two-run home run, his sixth of the season, over the Wind Surge bullpen in left field to give Wichita a 3-1 lead in the top of the fourth. The long ball puts him as the new Wind Surge all-time home run hitter in franchise history.Northwest Arkansas put up three runs on a pair of opposite-field hits across the bottom halves of the fourth and fifth frames. Jordan Groshans lined an RBI single to right in the fourth, and Jensen grounded a two-RBI knock to left to give the Naturals a 4-3 lead in the fifth.&nbsp;The Wind Surge responded with two runs to open each the seventh and eighth, and three tallies in the top ninth to get to a 10-4 lead. Five of the eight hits across those three innings went for extra bases, including another two-run home run by Sabato and a solo shot by Jorel Ortega in the top of the ninth.&nbsp;A bases-loaded walk and a Jensen bases-clearing double brought the tying run to the plate for Northwest Arkansas in the bottom of the ninth. John Stankiewicz entered from the bullpen and struck out Groshans and Brett Squires to end the game with a 10-8 Wichita final and his third save of the year.Angel Macuare records his second win of the season after throwing three innings of relief and giving up an earned run on two hits with two walks and three strikeouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Aaron Sabato is the new Wichita Wind Surge franchise home run leader after hitting his 33rd and 34th total blasts today. He’s reached base in 33 consecutive games, and becomes the fifth Wind Surge hitter to record multiple home runs in a game this season (Kyler Fedko, Ricardo Olivar, Jorel Ortega, Tanner Schobel).</li><li>Mike Paredes notches his first start of the season after making 14 appearances out of the bullpen to begin the year.</li><li>Jose Salas goes 2-for-3 with an RBI double in his Double-A debut with Wichita.&nbsp;</li><li>Five different Wind Surge batters had multi-hit performances.</li><li>Six different Wichita hitters recorded an RBI.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Wichita Outlasts Northwest Arkansas In Shootout

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered, doubled and scored three times, and the Kansas City Royals beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-5 in the second game of a day-night doubleheader on Thursday night.

Royals starter Cole Ragans pitched three innings in his return from the 15-day injured list with a left groin strain. He allowed five runs on five hits, struck out four and walked three.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749179118227.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. LOUIS (AP) — Maikel Garcia homered, doubled and scored three times, and the Kansas City Royals beat the St. Louis Cardinals 7-5 in the second game of a day-night doubleheader on Thursday night.Royals starter Cole Ragans pitched three innings in his return from the 15-day injured list with a left groin strain. He allowed five runs on five hits, struck out four and walked three.Angel Zerpa (3-0) pitched three scoreless innings in relief, giving up one hit, one walk and striking out four. Carlos Estévez earned his 18th save in 21 tries.Cardinals starter Matthew Liberatore (3-5) was pulled after four-plus innings with fatigue-related issues. He allowed a season-high seven runs on eight hits.The Cardinals rallied to take game one of the doubleheader 6-5 on Willson Contreras' RBI single in the tenth.Garcia's two-run homer in the first gave the Royals a 2-0 lead in the nightcap.Freddy Fermin hit a curveball 406 feet into the third deck in left field to lead off the third, sparking a three-run rally. Jonathan India singled and scored and Garcia doubled and scored on a Salvador Perez single to give the Royals a 5-1 lead.Contreras singled home the Cardinals' first run in the first inning and jump started a four-run third with a two-run double. Nolan Arenado followed with a two-run homer to tie the game at 5-all.Nick Loftin's RBI single scored Mark Canha to break the tie in the fourth. Garcia walked and scored on a Perez single in the fifth.Key momentLiberatore left the game after surrendering a leadoff walk to Garcia in the fifth.Key statGarcia's homer gave the Royals a first-inning home run for the third straight game.Up nextThe Royals are at the Chicago White Sox on Friday night to open a series, while the Cardinals are home against the Los Angeles Dodgers.