KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Willi Castro homered during a three-run rally in the seventh inning and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 for a three-game sweep. 

The Royals have lost six in a row and 11 of 12. Kansas City starter Brady Singer was removed after just three innings with tightness in his pitching shoulder. 

Tigers starter Tarik Skubal picked up the win, allowing three runs in six innings. Michael Fulmer earned his fifth save in six chances. 

Adalberto Mondesi hit a home run in his first at-bat since returning from the injured list. Salvador Perez also connected for the Royals, hitting his 17th of the season.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Willi Castro homered during a three-run rally in the seventh inning and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 for a three-game sweep. The Royals have lost six in a row and 11 of 12. Kansas City starter Brady Singer was removed after just three innings with tightness in his pitching shoulder. Tigers starter Tarik Skubal picked up the win, allowing three runs in six innings. Michael Fulmer earned his fifth save in six chances. Adalberto Mondesi hit a home run in his first at-bat since returning from the injured list. Salvador Perez also connected for the Royals, hitting his 17th of the season.

Tigers rally for sweep over skidding Royals

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - In the bottom of the first, the Monarchs wasted little time jumping out to an early lead after Jan Hernandez blasted a two-run shot into the bullpen in deep left-center for his fifth of the season.

On the hill, the Monarchs were led by newly acquired right-hander, Gregori Vasquez. Vasquez’s debut with Kansas City would serve to be one to remember as it came against his former team. The hurler was persistent in the early going as he finished the first two innings without surrendering a hit. His performance stayed strong, only allowing five baserunners through his six innings.

Gary SouthShore was only able to scratch one run across on Vasquez, coming in the top of the sixth inning off Daniel Lingua’s groundout to first base that brought Tyler Van Marter home. Vasquez would finish his first start allowing just three hits, no walks, two strikeouts, and one unearned run.

Defensively, Gabby Guerrero helped his pitcher out by teaming up with catcher, Alexis Olmeda, to turn a score-preventing double play in the top of the fifth. Guerrero snagged a fly ball on the run in right field then immediately threw a missile to Olmeda, who tagged out Jesus Marriaga at the plate to complete the highlight-reel play.

Casey Gillaspie came up big for the Monarchs in the sixth inning, clobbering his sixth homer of the summer. The no-doubter would bring in Hernandez and Guerrero, stretching the lead to four.

Cody Mincey, Elroy Urbina, and Brian Ellington worked together to finish the last three innings, only giving up one run in the eighth. The strong pitching performance, as well as the team's two home-runs served to be the recipe for success. The Monarchs notched their seventh straight win in 6-2 fashion.

Manager Joe Calfapietra spoke highly of his starter, Gregori Vasquez, saying, “you’re going to get a strike thrower, a guy that competes, and throws all of his pitches at any time in the strike zone.”

The Monarchs and RailCats will finish their three-game series on Thursday at Legends Field. The first pitch is slated for 7 p.m., as Kansas City will attempt a clean sweep. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:40 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - In the bottom of the first, the Monarchs wasted little time jumping out to an early lead after Jan Hernandez blasted a two-run shot into the bullpen in deep left-center for his fifth of the season.On the hill, the Monarchs were led by newly acquired right-hander, Gregori Vasquez. Vasquez’s debut with Kansas City would serve to be one to remember as it came against his former team. The hurler was persistent in the early going as he finished the first two innings without surrendering a hit. His performance stayed strong, only allowing five baserunners through his six innings.Gary SouthShore was only able to scratch one run across on Vasquez, coming in the top of the sixth inning off Daniel Lingua’s groundout to first base that brought Tyler Van Marter home. Vasquez would finish his first start allowing just three hits, no walks, two strikeouts, and one unearned run.Defensively, Gabby Guerrero helped his pitcher out by teaming up with catcher, Alexis Olmeda, to turn a score-preventing double play in the top of the fifth. Guerrero snagged a fly ball on the run in right field then immediately threw a missile to Olmeda, who tagged out Jesus Marriaga at the plate to complete the highlight-reel play.Casey Gillaspie came up big for the Monarchs in the sixth inning, clobbering his sixth homer of the summer. The no-doubter would bring in Hernandez and Guerrero, stretching the lead to four.Cody Mincey, Elroy Urbina, and Brian Ellington worked together to finish the last three innings, only giving up one run in the eighth. The strong pitching performance, as well as the team's two home-runs served to be the recipe for success. The Monarchs notched their seventh straight win in 6-2 fashion.Manager Joe Calfapietra spoke highly of his starter, Gregori Vasquez, saying, “you’re going to get a strike thrower, a guy that competes, and throws all of his pitches at any time in the strike zone.”The Monarchs and RailCats will finish their three-game series on Thursday at Legends Field. The first pitch is slated for 7 p.m., as Kansas City will attempt a clean sweep. The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 6:40 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

Monarchs get 7th straight win, defeat RailCats 6-2

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sixth-year senior defensive back&nbsp;Jahron McPherson&nbsp;was one of 42 players across the country to be named to the 2021 watch list for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation has announced.

McPherson’s inclusion on the watch list is the first for the Wildcats since&nbsp;Denzel Goolsby&nbsp;was up for the award in 2018. Prior K-State candidates include&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2012 finalist),&nbsp;Ty Zimmerman&nbsp;(2013),&nbsp;Ryan Mueller&nbsp;(2014 quarterfinalist),&nbsp;Dante Barnett&nbsp;(2015 and 2016) and&nbsp;D.J. Reed&nbsp;(2017).

This is the 18th year the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation has presented the Lott IMPACT Trophy, which goes to the college defensive player who exhibits the characteristics displayed by Ronnie Lott during his legendary college and professional careers. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity.

A 10-game starter at safety in 2020, McPherson was an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 pick by the league’s coaches after leading the Wildcats with 54 tackles to go along with 3.5 tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions, five total passes defended and a forced fumble.

A product of Basehor, McPherson had a banner day in K-State’s win at No. 3 Oklahoma when he had a career-high 11 tackles – including one for a loss – forced a fumble that K-State recovered and an interception in the fourth quarter to seal the win. He was the first Wildcat since 2002 to have double-digit tackles, a TFL, an interception and a forced fumble in the same game (Bryan Hickman&nbsp;vs. Iowa State). Following his performance against the Sooners, McPherson was named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week, the Nagurski Trophy Player of the Week, Thorpe Award Player of the Week and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week.

Season tickets are on sale for the 2021 season and start at just over $20 per game, and single-game tickets go on sale on Monday, July 12. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623874297396.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State sixth-year senior defensive back&nbsp;Jahron McPherson&nbsp;was one of 42 players across the country to be named to the 2021 watch list for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation has announced.McPherson’s inclusion on the watch list is the first for the Wildcats since&nbsp;Denzel Goolsby&nbsp;was up for the award in 2018. Prior K-State candidates include&nbsp;Arthur Brown&nbsp;(2012 finalist),&nbsp;Ty Zimmerman&nbsp;(2013),&nbsp;Ryan Mueller&nbsp;(2014 quarterfinalist),&nbsp;Dante Barnett&nbsp;(2015 and 2016) and&nbsp;D.J. Reed&nbsp;(2017).This is the 18th year the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation has presented the Lott IMPACT Trophy, which goes to the college defensive player who exhibits the characteristics displayed by Ronnie Lott during his legendary college and professional careers. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity.A 10-game starter at safety in 2020, McPherson was an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 pick by the league’s coaches after leading the Wildcats with 54 tackles to go along with 3.5 tackles for loss, a sack, two interceptions, five total passes defended and a forced fumble.A product of Basehor, McPherson had a banner day in K-State’s win at No. 3 Oklahoma when he had a career-high 11 tackles – including one for a loss – forced a fumble that K-State recovered and an interception in the fourth quarter to seal the win. He was the first Wildcat since 2002 to have double-digit tackles, a TFL, an interception and a forced fumble in the same game (Bryan Hickman&nbsp;vs. Iowa State). Following his performance against the Sooners, McPherson was named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week, the Nagurski Trophy Player of the Week, Thorpe Award Player of the Week and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week.Season tickets are on sale for the 2021 season and start at just over $20 per game, and single-game tickets go on sale on Monday, July 12. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.–&nbsp;<a href="http://k-statesports.com/" target="_blank">k-statesports.com</a>&nbsp;–

K-State’s McPherson named to Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list

CONCORDIA - The Cloud County Community College baseball and volleyball teams are the winners of the 2020-2021 Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year Awards, given to the men's and women's T-Bird athletic teams that finish the year with the highest overall team GPA. Overall, the volleyball team finished the year with the best overall GPA among the 12 sports at Cloud County, finishing with a 3.64 GPA to edge the softball team who finished with the second-highest GPA in the athletic department at 3.59. The baseball team took home the honor of top men's team GPA with a 3.38 team GPA followed by the men's outdoor track and field team who came in second on the men's side with a 2.94 team GPA. The award for the volleyball team is their seventh overall and sixth in a seven-year span dating back to the 2014-15 academic year while the baseball team earns their fifth consecutive award on the men's side and fifth overall. In total, five of Cloud County's 12 athletic teams posted a GPA of 3.0 or higher, including volleyball, softball, baseball, women's basketball, and women's cross country. The award, which has been in place since 2008-20009 is named after longtime Cloud County Community College employee and ambassador Burnell Ukens. From 1965-1995, Ukens served as a valued member of the faculty at CCCC teaching mathematics. Burnell also led the college as the first Athletic Director for eight years and started the tennis program in 1971 while serving as head coach. Burnell also assisted track and field and baseball at various times throughout his career and served as intramural director. A dedicated family man, coach, and visionary in the realm of athletics, the Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year award is to honor those teams who show academic excellence in the classroom in honor of an exceptional educator. Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year winners by year 2008-2009:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Cross Country,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Indoor Track &amp; Field 2009-2010:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Cross Country 2010-2011:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Volleyball 2011-2012:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Soccer,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Softball 2012-2013:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Soccer,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Softball 2013-2014:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Outdoor Track &amp; Field,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Basketball 2014-2015:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Volleyball&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623872826710.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>CONCORDIA - The Cloud County Community College baseball and volleyball teams are the winners of the 2020-2021 Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year Awards, given to the men's and women's T-Bird athletic teams that finish the year with the highest overall team GPA. Overall, the volleyball team finished the year with the best overall GPA among the 12 sports at Cloud County, finishing with a 3.64 GPA to edge the softball team who finished with the second-highest GPA in the athletic department at 3.59. The baseball team took home the honor of top men's team GPA with a 3.38 team GPA followed by the men's outdoor track and field team who came in second on the men's side with a 2.94 team GPA. The award for the volleyball team is their seventh overall and sixth in a seven-year span dating back to the 2014-15 academic year while the baseball team earns their fifth consecutive award on the men's side and fifth overall. In total, five of Cloud County's 12 athletic teams posted a GPA of 3.0 or higher, including volleyball, softball, baseball, women's basketball, and women's cross country. The award, which has been in place since 2008-20009 is named after longtime Cloud County Community College employee and ambassador Burnell Ukens. From 1965-1995, Ukens served as a valued member of the faculty at CCCC teaching mathematics. Burnell also led the college as the first Athletic Director for eight years and started the tennis program in 1971 while serving as head coach. Burnell also assisted track and field and baseball at various times throughout his career and served as intramural director. A dedicated family man, coach, and visionary in the realm of athletics, the Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year award is to honor those teams who show academic excellence in the classroom in honor of an exceptional educator. Burnell Ukens Academic Teams of the Year winners by year 2008-2009:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Cross Country,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Indoor Track &amp; Field 2009-2010:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Cross Country 2010-2011:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Volleyball 2011-2012:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Soccer,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Softball 2012-2013:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Soccer,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Softball 2013-2014:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Outdoor Track &amp; Field,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Basketball 2014-2015:&nbsp;Men's&nbsp;- Basketball,&nbsp;Women's&nbsp;- Volleyball&nbsp;&nbsp;-<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com">cloudtbirds.com</a>-

T-Bird baseball, volleyball teams win academic awards

IRVING, Texas&nbsp;– The Big 12 announced the 2021 conference volleyball schedule, featuring a double round-robin format of 16 matches scheduled in eight double-headers.

The Jayhawks host Iowa State, Texas, Okla., and TCU, while facing Texas Tech, Baylor, West Virginia, and Kansas State on the road.

Kansas opens Big 12 play at Texas Tech Sept. 24-25 at United Supermarkets Arena. The Jayhawks concluded&nbsp;the fall slate of matches last season with a sweep of the Red Raiders.

After opening at Texas Tech, KU hosts Iowa State (Oct. 1-2) and Texas (Oct. 8-9) for a four-match home stand. The Jayhawks split the 2020 season series with ISU, and were aided by a 25-kill performance by returning super senior Jenny Mosser in KU’s five-set victory.

Kansas then travels to Waco, Texas, to face Baylor Oct. 14-15 in a rematch of the season-opening series from a year ago. KU opened the season with a five-set victory over the Lady Bears and were one of only two teams to beat BU in conference play.

Oklahoma visits Lawrence for a two-match set Oct. 29-30 before the Jayhawks travel to Morgantown to face WVU Nov. 4-5.

Kansas hosts TCU Nov. 19-20 for the final home stand of the season, and look to move to 4-0 in 2021 against the Horned Frogs. Due to scheduling conflicts and cancelations from TCU, the Jayhawks were forced to play their two-match series with TCU during the spring slate of the 2020-21 schedule, beating the Horned Frogs in four sets each match.

The Dillons Sunflower Showdown marks the end of the 2021 slate with the Jayhawks traveling to Bramlage Coliseum Nov. 26-27. Kansas topped Kansas State in the series opening match in four sets last season, before splitting the series with KSU.

All dates and times are subject to change. The Jayhawks will announce their own non-conference schedule and match times at a later date.

The 2021 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Team will be announced on June 22, followed by the Preseason Poll on June 23.

Kansas season tickets are available now and can be purchased through the Kansas ticket office or through&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=6188b3eff3&amp;e=42e2e56024" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623870958393.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy <a href="http://kuathletics.com">kuathletics.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy <a href="http://kuathletics.com">kuathletics.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>IRVING, Texas&nbsp;– The Big 12 announced the 2021 conference volleyball schedule, featuring a double round-robin format of 16 matches scheduled in eight double-headers.The Jayhawks host Iowa State, Texas, Okla., and TCU, while facing Texas Tech, Baylor, West Virginia, and Kansas State on the road.Kansas opens Big 12 play at Texas Tech Sept. 24-25 at United Supermarkets Arena. The Jayhawks concluded&nbsp;the fall slate of matches last season with a sweep of the Red Raiders.After opening at Texas Tech, KU hosts Iowa State (Oct. 1-2) and Texas (Oct. 8-9) for a four-match home stand. The Jayhawks split the 2020 season series with ISU, and were aided by a 25-kill performance by returning super senior Jenny Mosser in KU’s five-set victory.Kansas then travels to Waco, Texas, to face Baylor Oct. 14-15 in a rematch of the season-opening series from a year ago. KU opened the season with a five-set victory over the Lady Bears and were one of only two teams to beat BU in conference play.Oklahoma visits Lawrence for a two-match set Oct. 29-30 before the Jayhawks travel to Morgantown to face WVU Nov. 4-5.Kansas hosts TCU Nov. 19-20 for the final home stand of the season, and look to move to 4-0 in 2021 against the Horned Frogs. Due to scheduling conflicts and cancelations from TCU, the Jayhawks were forced to play their two-match series with TCU during the spring slate of the 2020-21 schedule, beating the Horned Frogs in four sets each match.The Dillons Sunflower Showdown marks the end of the 2021 slate with the Jayhawks traveling to Bramlage Coliseum Nov. 26-27. Kansas topped Kansas State in the series opening match in four sets last season, before splitting the series with KSU.All dates and times are subject to change. The Jayhawks will announce their own non-conference schedule and match times at a later date.The 2021 Big 12 Volleyball Preseason Team will be announced on June 22, followed by the Preseason Poll on June 23.Kansas season tickets are available now and can be purchased through the Kansas ticket office or through&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3846a6408b9536a51afeabac1&amp;id=6188b3eff3&amp;e=42e2e56024" target="_blank">KUAthletics.com.</a>

KU volleyball's Big 12 schedule announced

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Chiefs'&nbsp;Tyreek Hill, Chris Jones, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire spoke with the media during a Wednesday presser. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Chiefs'&nbsp;Tyreek Hill, Chris Jones, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire spoke with the media during a Wednesday presser. 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?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F235238944745235%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Chiefs' Hill, Jones, Edwards-Helaire talk football Wednesday

MANHATTAN – The Kansas State men’s and women’s track and field teams capped a successful outdoor season on Monday, as a total of 13 Wildcats were honored as All-Americans by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA). 

The honors came after their performances at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which concluded on Saturday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore.

Athletes who finished among the top-8 of their respective event earned First Team All-America status from the organization, while Second Team honors went those who finished between ninth and 16th&nbsp;place. Honorable mention went to those athletes who finished 17th&nbsp;through 24th&nbsp;in their event.

Led by a national runner-up finish in the men’s high jump by junior&nbsp;Tejaswin Shankar, the Wildcats had a combined seven athletes earn First or Second Team All-America honors. Along Shankar’s First Team accolade, seniors&nbsp;Ariel Okorie&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lauren Taubert&nbsp;in the heptathlon, junior&nbsp;Taylor Latimer&nbsp;in the women’s shot put, senior&nbsp;Ashley Petr&nbsp;in the women’s discus, senior&nbsp;Taishia Pryce&nbsp;in the women’s long jump and senior&nbsp;Logan Wolfley&nbsp;in the men’s javelin were named to the Second Team.

In addition to the seven First and Second All-American, six athletes were honorable mention, including senior&nbsp;Kimisha Chambers&nbsp;in the women’s 400-meter hurdles, senior&nbsp;Helene Ingvaldsen&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shaelyn Ward&nbsp;in women’s hammer, junior&nbsp;Wurrie Njadoe&nbsp;in the women’s 100 meters, freshman&nbsp;Rhianna Phipps&nbsp;in the women’s triple jump and senior&nbsp;Jullane Walker&nbsp;in the men’s long jump.

“Both teams had good conference meets and we had an impressive number of athletes get to the final weekend,” said Director of Track and Field and Cross Country&nbsp;Cliff Rovelto&nbsp;as he wrapped up his 29th season at the helm of the Wildcat track and field programs. “The outdoor season was a good one for us.”

A six-time All-American, Shankar has now earned First Team honors in three consecutive outdoor championships in the high jump (2018, 2019, 2021). The 2018 national champion, he lost the NCAA title on Friday night to a familiar foe in LSU’s&nbsp;JuVaughn Harrison, who won his fourth consecutive high jump national title (2019 indoor and outdoor and 2021 indoor and outdoor). In that span, Shankar has finished second twice (2019 and 2021 outdoor) and third on another occasion (2021 indoor).&nbsp;A Wildcat high jumper has now registered All-America honors 16 times in the last 18 outdoor championships dating back to 2003.

Taubert was selected an All-American for the fourth time (indoor and outdoor) in her career, including the second time in the heptathlon. Latimer and Pryce each registered All-America distinction for the second time with Latimer earning the honor in the shot put in consecutive outdoor championships (2019 and 2021) and Pryce claiming accolade in the long jump in both the indoor and outdoor seasons.

Okorie, Petr and Wolfley each tallied All-America status for the first time in their careers.

Taubert and Okorie are the first Wildcat tandem to earn All-America honors in the heptathlon in the same championship in school history, while they extend K-State’s streak of having at least one athlete earn All-America honors in the heptathlon to six consecutive outdoor championships.

“Lauren, Ariel and I have worked together for five years now,” said Rovelto. “They are special people who have grown immensely. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to share the process with them.”

Petr&nbsp;is the first women’s discus All-American since&nbsp;Shadae Lawrence&nbsp;did it in three consecutive years from 2016-18. The two, along with&nbsp;Angie Miller&nbsp;(1990 and 1991) are the only Wildcat women to collect All-America distinction in the discus in school history.

Wolfley is just the fourth Wildcat to earn All-America honors in the men’s javelin since 1991 and the first since&nbsp;Ivan Hartung&nbsp;finished 16th&nbsp;at the 2014 Championships. Overall, he is seventh Wildcat to collect First or Second Team All-America honors in the javelin since 1943.

USC led the nation with a combined 43 First and Second Team All-Americans, followed by LSU (36), Texas (32), Texas A&amp;M (27), North Carolina A&amp;T (26), Kentucky (26) and Arkansas (25).

LSU won the men’s team title with 84 points, while host Oregon (53), North Carolina A&amp;T (35), Florida (34.50) and USC (33) finished off the top-5. USC won the women’s team title with 74 points over second-place Texas A&amp;M, which collected 63 points. Georgia (37.50), Alabama (31) and North Carolina A&amp;T (31) finished off the top-5.

With the conclusion of the NCAA Championships, the Wildcats now head into training for various Olympic qualifying events, including the U.S. Olympic Trials, which will be held at Hayward Field from June 18-27.

“Our program will miss all the seniors who completed their eligibility this year,” said Rovelto. “They have been a special group.”

To learn more about the 13 Wildcats who qualified for the NCAA Championships, fans can click on the NCAA Championship Central&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/gameday/track-field-vs-ncaa-outdoor-championships/trackandfield/20/" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;on the K-State Athletics’ website, which includes athlete bios, features and&nbsp;highlights from the 2020-21 season.

For the latest on K-State Track and Field follow @kstatesports and @KStateTFXC on Twitter or Kansas State Track &amp; Field/Cross Country on Facebook.

—<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">kstatesports.com</a>—

MANHATTAN – The Kansas State men’s and women’s track and field teams capped a successful outdoor season on Monday, as a total of 13 Wildcats were honored as All-Americans by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Association (USTFCCCA). The honors came after their performances at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which concluded on Saturday at Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore.Athletes who finished among the top-8 of their respective event earned First Team All-America status from the organization, while Second Team honors went those who finished between ninth and 16th&nbsp;place. Honorable mention went to those athletes who finished 17th&nbsp;through 24th&nbsp;in their event.Led by a national runner-up finish in the men’s high jump by junior&nbsp;Tejaswin Shankar, the Wildcats had a combined seven athletes earn First or Second Team All-America honors. Along Shankar’s First Team accolade, seniors&nbsp;Ariel Okorie&nbsp;and&nbsp;Lauren Taubert&nbsp;in the heptathlon, junior&nbsp;Taylor Latimer&nbsp;in the women’s shot put, senior&nbsp;Ashley Petr&nbsp;in the women’s discus, senior&nbsp;Taishia Pryce&nbsp;in the women’s long jump and senior&nbsp;Logan Wolfley&nbsp;in the men’s javelin were named to the Second Team.In addition to the seven First and Second All-American, six athletes were honorable mention, including senior&nbsp;Kimisha Chambers&nbsp;in the women’s 400-meter hurdles, senior&nbsp;Helene Ingvaldsen&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shaelyn Ward&nbsp;in women’s hammer, junior&nbsp;Wurrie Njadoe&nbsp;in the women’s 100 meters, freshman&nbsp;Rhianna Phipps&nbsp;in the women’s triple jump and senior&nbsp;Jullane Walker&nbsp;in the men’s long jump.“Both teams had good conference meets and we had an impressive number of athletes get to the final weekend,” said Director of Track and Field and Cross Country&nbsp;Cliff Rovelto&nbsp;as he wrapped up his 29th season at the helm of the Wildcat track and field programs. “The outdoor season was a good one for us.”A six-time All-American, Shankar has now earned First Team honors in three consecutive outdoor championships in the high jump (2018, 2019, 2021). The 2018 national champion, he lost the NCAA title on Friday night to a familiar foe in LSU’s&nbsp;JuVaughn Harrison, who won his fourth consecutive high jump national title (2019 indoor and outdoor and 2021 indoor and outdoor). In that span, Shankar has finished second twice (2019 and 2021 outdoor) and third on another occasion (2021 indoor).&nbsp;A Wildcat high jumper has now registered All-America honors 16 times in the last 18 outdoor championships dating back to 2003.Taubert was selected an All-American for the fourth time (indoor and outdoor) in her career, including the second time in the heptathlon. Latimer and Pryce each registered All-America distinction for the second time with Latimer earning the honor in the shot put in consecutive outdoor championships (2019 and 2021) and Pryce claiming accolade in the long jump in both the indoor and outdoor seasons.Okorie, Petr and Wolfley each tallied All-America status for the first time in their careers.Taubert and Okorie are the first Wildcat tandem to earn All-America honors in the heptathlon in the same championship in school history, while they extend K-State’s streak of having at least one athlete earn All-America honors in the heptathlon to six consecutive outdoor championships.“Lauren, Ariel and I have worked together for five years now,” said Rovelto. “They are special people who have grown immensely. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to share the process with them.”Petr&nbsp;is the first women’s discus All-American since&nbsp;Shadae Lawrence&nbsp;did it in three consecutive years from 2016-18. The two, along with&nbsp;Angie Miller&nbsp;(1990 and 1991) are the only Wildcat women to collect All-America distinction in the discus in school history.Wolfley is just the fourth Wildcat to earn All-America honors in the men’s javelin since 1991 and the first since&nbsp;Ivan Hartung&nbsp;finished 16th&nbsp;at the 2014 Championships. Overall, he is seventh Wildcat to collect First or Second Team All-America honors in the javelin since 1943.USC led the nation with a combined 43 First and Second Team All-Americans, followed by LSU (36), Texas (32), Texas A&amp;M (27), North Carolina A&amp;T (26), Kentucky (26) and Arkansas (25).LSU won the men’s team title with 84 points, while host Oregon (53), North Carolina A&amp;T (35), Florida (34.50) and USC (33) finished off the top-5. USC won the women’s team title with 74 points over second-place Texas A&amp;M, which collected 63 points. Georgia (37.50), Alabama (31) and North Carolina A&amp;T (31) finished off the top-5.With the conclusion of the NCAA Championships, the Wildcats now head into training for various Olympic qualifying events, including the U.S. Olympic Trials, which will be held at Hayward Field from June 18-27.“Our program will miss all the seniors who completed their eligibility this year,” said Rovelto. “They have been a special group.”To learn more about the 13 Wildcats who qualified for the NCAA Championships, fans can click on the NCAA Championship Central&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/gameday/track-field-vs-ncaa-outdoor-championships/trackandfield/20/" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;on the K-State Athletics’ website, which includes athlete bios, features and&nbsp;highlights from the 2020-21 season.For the latest on K-State Track and Field follow @kstatesports and @KStateTFXC on Twitter or Kansas State Track &amp; Field/Cross Country on Facebook.—<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/" target="_blank">kstatesports.com</a>—

13 Wildcats honored as USTFCCCA All-Americans

WICHITA–&nbsp;The Wind Surge dominate, secure a win in the series opener with a 13-4 victory over the Springfield Cardinals from Wichita’s Delano District.

Despite a rough outing in his last start, starter&nbsp;Jordan Balazovic&nbsp;put on a clinic tonight in his third start. He pitched four and a third innings, allowing no runs on two hits, one walk, and eight strikeouts.

23-year-old OF&nbsp;Leobaldo Cabrera&nbsp;impressed at the plate tonight, going 4-4 with a double, three singles, a RBI, SB, and two runs scored.&nbsp;Cabrera&nbsp;now has a hit at three different levels of the Twins system in the 2021 season (Low-A Fort Myers, High-A Cedar Rapids).

The Wind Surge had one of their best offensive games of the year.&nbsp;Jose Miranda&nbsp;led off the game with a solo blast to left field. He would finish the night going 3-5 with a HR, two singles, and three RBI.&nbsp;Caleb Hamilton&nbsp;and&nbsp;Andrew Bechtold&nbsp;went back-to-back with towering shots to left center, the second time this duo has gone back-to-back at Riverfront Stadium (6/5 vs ARK).

Andrew Bechtold, Jose Miranda, Caleb Hamilton, Leobaldo Cabrera,&nbsp;Roy Morales,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aaron Whitefield&nbsp;finished the night with multi-hit games.&nbsp;Jose Miranda,&nbsp;Caleb Hamilton,&nbsp;Andrew Bechtold, and&nbsp;Ernie de la Trinidad&nbsp;all had multi-RBI games.

Hector Lujan&nbsp;picked up the win out of relief, going two innings, giving up one run, two hits, and no walks on three strikeouts. He improves his record to 3-1 on the season, with an ERA of 2.55.

NOTES Jose Miranda&nbsp;leads the Double-A Central in both hits and RBI, with 46 hits and 31 RBI.&nbsp;Roy Morales&nbsp;extended his hitting streak to five games.&nbsp;Leobaldo Cabrera&nbsp;is the second Wind Surge player to start his Riverfront Stadium career with a four-hit game (BJ Boyd, 5/29 vs SPR).

COMING UP Wichita will host the Springfield Cardinals again tonight, with first pitch at approximately 7:05 p.m. The Wind Surge will start RHP Chris Vallimont, as Springfield starts LHP Tyler Pike. Catch the game on MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.&nbsp;Tickets for Wind Surge home games are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/tickets/single-game-tickets" target="_blank">milb.com/wichita/tickets/single-game-tickets</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623847368313.jpeg" alt="Leobaldo Cabrera went 4-4 with a double, three singles, a RBI, SB, and two runs scored. Photo by Ed Bailey courtesy Wichita Wind Surge" />
 <figcaption>Leobaldo Cabrera went 4-4 with a double, three singles, a RBI, SB, and two runs scored. Photo by Ed Bailey courtesy Wichita Wind Surge</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA–&nbsp;The Wind Surge dominate, secure a win in the series opener with a 13-4 victory over the Springfield Cardinals from Wichita’s Delano District.Despite a rough outing in his last start, starter&nbsp;Jordan Balazovic&nbsp;put on a clinic tonight in his third start. He pitched four and a third innings, allowing no runs on two hits, one walk, and eight strikeouts.23-year-old OF&nbsp;Leobaldo Cabrera&nbsp;impressed at the plate tonight, going 4-4 with a double, three singles, a RBI, SB, and two runs scored.&nbsp;Cabrera&nbsp;now has a hit at three different levels of the Twins system in the 2021 season (Low-A Fort Myers, High-A Cedar Rapids).The Wind Surge had one of their best offensive games of the year.&nbsp;Jose Miranda&nbsp;led off the game with a solo blast to left field. He would finish the night going 3-5 with a HR, two singles, and three RBI.&nbsp;Caleb Hamilton&nbsp;and&nbsp;Andrew Bechtold&nbsp;went back-to-back with towering shots to left center, the second time this duo has gone back-to-back at Riverfront Stadium (6/5 vs ARK).Andrew Bechtold, Jose Miranda, Caleb Hamilton, Leobaldo Cabrera,&nbsp;Roy Morales,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Aaron Whitefield&nbsp;finished the night with multi-hit games.&nbsp;Jose Miranda,&nbsp;Caleb Hamilton,&nbsp;Andrew Bechtold, and&nbsp;Ernie de la Trinidad&nbsp;all had multi-RBI games.Hector Lujan&nbsp;picked up the win out of relief, going two innings, giving up one run, two hits, and no walks on three strikeouts. He improves his record to 3-1 on the season, with an ERA of 2.55.NOTES Jose Miranda&nbsp;leads the Double-A Central in both hits and RBI, with 46 hits and 31 RBI.&nbsp;Roy Morales&nbsp;extended his hitting streak to five games.&nbsp;Leobaldo Cabrera&nbsp;is the second Wind Surge player to start his Riverfront Stadium career with a four-hit game (BJ Boyd, 5/29 vs SPR).COMING UP Wichita will host the Springfield Cardinals again tonight, with first pitch at approximately 7:05 p.m. The Wind Surge will start RHP Chris Vallimont, as Springfield starts LHP Tyler Pike. Catch the game on MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.&nbsp;Tickets for Wind Surge home games are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.milb.com/wichita/tickets/single-game-tickets" target="_blank">milb.com/wichita/tickets/single-game-tickets</a>.

Wind Surge wallops Springfield Cardinals 13-4

KANSAS CITY,&nbsp;Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;It was a slow start in the 3-1 win for the Monarchs on Tuesday night at Legends Field.

It was a battle of the pitchers between winning Monarchs RHP Justin Shaffer (2-1) and losing RailCats RHP Jack Alkrie (1-3) in the first six innings with six strikeouts each.

“It was [Shaffer’s] best outing,” Monarchs manager Joe Calfapietra said, “He had most control of everything--his pitches, his body--he was just in total command of the game.”

Gary SouthShore scored one run in the fourth inning, unequaled until the sixth when Kansas City ended the inning with runs scored by Morgan McCullough, Darnell Sweeney and Ryan Grotjohn.

“[McCullough] does an outstanding job,” Calfapietra said, “No matter what role you put him in, he gets outs, we wouldn’t be in this situation without him,”

Kansas City (13-10) and Gary SouthShore (13-13) will meet for the second game of the series at 1 p.m. today.

KANSAS CITY,&nbsp;Kan.&nbsp;—&nbsp;It was a slow start in the 3-1 win for the Monarchs on Tuesday night at Legends Field. It was a battle of the pitchers between winning Monarchs RHP Justin Shaffer (2-1) and losing RailCats RHP Jack Alkrie (1-3) in the first six innings with six strikeouts each.“It was [Shaffer’s] best outing,” Monarchs manager Joe Calfapietra said, “He had most control of everything--his pitches, his body--he was just in total command of the game.”Gary SouthShore scored one run in the fourth inning, unequaled until the sixth when Kansas City ended the inning with runs scored by Morgan McCullough, Darnell Sweeney and Ryan Grotjohn.“[McCullough] does an outstanding job,” Calfapietra said, “No matter what role you put him in, he gets outs, we wouldn’t be in this situation without him,”Kansas City (13-10) and Gary SouthShore (13-13) will meet for the second game of the series at 1 p.m. today.

Despite slow start, Monarchs take first game from RailCats

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Casey Mize turned in his eighth quality start in his last nine games, Miguel Cabrera got two more hits and the Detroit Tigers beat Kansas City 4-2. 

Mize allowed three runs on seven hits in 6 2/3 innings. Gregory Soto pitched the ninth for his sixth save in as many chances. 

Cabrera, stuck in a slump for most of the season, doubled and singled to drive in one run and score another. He had three hits in Monday night's win over the Royals.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Casey Mize turned in his eighth quality start in his last nine games, Miguel Cabrera got two more hits and the Detroit Tigers beat Kansas City 4-2. The Royals lost their fifth in a row. Mize allowed three runs on seven hits in 6 2/3 innings. Gregory Soto pitched the ninth for his sixth save in as many chances. Cabrera, stuck in a slump for most of the season, doubled and singled to drive in one run and score another. He had three hits in Monday night's win over the Royals.

Mize, Cabrera help Tigers send Royals to 5th straight loss

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Kansas men’s basketball players Marcus Garrett, Ochai Agbaji and Jalen Wilson have been selected to participate in upcoming NBA camps in preparation for the 2021 NBA Draft. On Monday, Garrett and Wilson were among the 40 draft prospects named to the NBA G League Elite Camp which runs June 19-21 in Chicago. On Tuesday, Agbaji was listed on the attendees for the NBA Draft Combine, which runs June 21-27, also in Chicago. Following the camps, the individuals will work out for teams with the hopes of being drafted on July 29. Wilson and Agbaji will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA draft process and return to school if withdrawn by July 7. Garrett was the 2020 Naismith and ESPN.com Defensive Player of the Year and the 2020 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Last season, the Dallas guard ranked in the Big 12 in assist-to-ratio (third at 1.9), steals (fifth at 1.6) and assists (10th at 3.7) in addition to being named Senior CLASS Award All-American First Team and All-Big 12 Second Team. A three-time Big 12 All-Defensive Team member, KU posted a 106-30 record, including a 47-5 mark in Allen Fieldhouse while Garrett was at Kansas. Garrett ended his KU career with 984 points. His 181 all-time steals are tied for 10th most in KU history and his 351 career assists rank 19th most at KU. Wilson was a redshirt freshman in 2020-21 who averaged 11.8 points per game and led Kansas with 7.9 rebounds per contest. The Denton, Texas, forward appeared in 28 games with 26 starts and was named to the 2021 Big 12 All-Newcomer and Big 12 All-Freshman teams. Wilson was a unanimous choice by the league coaches for the all-freshman squad after posting nine double-doubles in 2020-21. His 7.9 rebound average ranks second on the KU all-time freshman list, only trailing Joel Embiid’s 8.1 rpg in 2013-14. His nine double-doubles were second most in the Big 12 in 2020-21. As a junior, Agbaji was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection for the second-straight season, averaging 14.1 points paired with 3.7 rebounds per game. Agabji, from Kansas City, Mo., ranked fourth in the Big 12 in 3-point field goal percentage (38.3%), while leading the conference in 3-point field goals made per game (2.6). Agbaji has started 77 straight games for KU and has 920 career points. His 147 career 3-pointers made are 18th in KU history and his 418 3-pointers attempted are 16th.

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

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;Kansas men’s basketball players Marcus Garrett, Ochai Agbaji and Jalen Wilson have been selected to participate in upcoming NBA camps in preparation for the 2021 NBA Draft. On Monday, Garrett and Wilson were among the 40 draft prospects named to the NBA G League Elite Camp which runs June 19-21 in Chicago. On Tuesday, Agbaji was listed on the attendees for the NBA Draft Combine, which runs June 21-27, also in Chicago. Following the camps, the individuals will work out for teams with the hopes of being drafted on July 29. Wilson and Agbaji will retain NCAA eligibility while testing the draft process. Per NCAA rules, student-athletes can participate in the NBA draft process and return to school if withdrawn by July 7. Garrett was the 2020 Naismith and ESPN.com Defensive Player of the Year and the 2020 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Last season, the Dallas guard ranked in the Big 12 in assist-to-ratio (third at 1.9), steals (fifth at 1.6) and assists (10th at 3.7) in addition to being named Senior CLASS Award All-American First Team and All-Big 12 Second Team. A three-time Big 12 All-Defensive Team member, KU posted a 106-30 record, including a 47-5 mark in Allen Fieldhouse while Garrett was at Kansas. Garrett ended his KU career with 984 points. His 181 all-time steals are tied for 10th most in KU history and his 351 career assists rank 19th most at KU. Wilson was a redshirt freshman in 2020-21 who averaged 11.8 points per game and led Kansas with 7.9 rebounds per contest. The Denton, Texas, forward appeared in 28 games with 26 starts and was named to the 2021 Big 12 All-Newcomer and Big 12 All-Freshman teams. Wilson was a unanimous choice by the league coaches for the all-freshman squad after posting nine double-doubles in 2020-21. His 7.9 rebound average ranks second on the KU all-time freshman list, only trailing Joel Embiid’s 8.1 rpg in 2013-14. His nine double-doubles were second most in the Big 12 in 2020-21. As a junior, Agbaji was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection for the second-straight season, averaging 14.1 points paired with 3.7 rebounds per game. Agabji, from Kansas City, Mo., ranked fourth in the Big 12 in 3-point field goal percentage (38.3%), while leading the conference in 3-point field goals made per game (2.6). Agbaji has started 77 straight games for KU and has 920 career points. His 147 career 3-pointers made are 18th in KU history and his 418 3-pointers attempted are 16th. -<a href="http://kuathletics.com">kuathletics.com</a>-

3 Jayhawks invited to NBA pre-draft camps

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Chiefs' Frank Clark, Travis Kelce, and Laurent Duvernay-Tardif field media questions during a Tuesday afternoon presser. From <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityChiefs">The Kansas City Chiefs</a> Facebook page:

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Chiefs' Frank Clark, Travis Kelce, and Laurent Duvernay-Tardif field media questions during a Tuesday afternoon presser. 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?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasCityChiefs%2Fvideos%2F525050692019460%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

🎥Chiefs' Clark, Kelce, Duvernay-Tardif talk football

NEW YORK (AP) — Pitchers will be ejected and suspended for 10 games for using illegal foreign substances to doctor baseballs in a crackdown by Major League Baseball that will start June 21. 

The move announced by the commissioner's office comes in response to record strikeouts and a league batting average at its lowest since 1968. 

The commissioner's office says major and minor league umpires will start regular checks of all pitchers, even if opposing managers don't request inspections. 

Repeat offenders will receive progressive discipline, and teams and club employees will be subject to discipline for failure to comply. 

The increased use of foreign substances to alter baseballs is viewed as the largest instance of widespread cheating in the sport since the rise of steroids.

NEW YORK (AP) — Pitchers will be ejected and suspended for 10 games for using illegal foreign substances to doctor baseballs in a crackdown by Major League Baseball that will start June 21. The move announced by the commissioner's office comes in response to record strikeouts and a league batting average at its lowest since 1968. The commissioner's office says major and minor league umpires will start regular checks of all pitchers, even if opposing managers don't request inspections. Repeat offenders will receive progressive discipline, and teams and club employees will be subject to discipline for failure to comply. The increased use of foreign substances to alter baseballs is viewed as the largest instance of widespread cheating in the sport since the rise of steroids.

MLB threatens pitchers with 10-game bans for altering balls

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Detroit starter Matthew Boyd and reliever Alex Lange both exited with injuries and the Tigers still ended a three-game losing streak, beating the Kansas City Royals 10-3. 

Willi Castro, Robbie Grossman and Niko Goodrum homered for Detroit. Miguel Cabrera got three hits and drove in two runs, with his RBI single keying a four-run first inning. 

The Royals, who have not led since finishing off Thursday's 6-1 victory in Oakland, lost their fourth in a row. They are a season-worst five games below .500. 

Boyd departed in the third because of discomfort in his left arm. Lange left after recording just one out in the fifth with an unspecified problem.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Detroit starter Matthew Boyd and reliever Alex Lange both exited with injuries and the Tigers still ended a three-game losing streak, beating the Kansas City Royals 10-3. Willi Castro, Robbie Grossman and Niko Goodrum homered for Detroit. Miguel Cabrera got three hits and drove in two runs, with his RBI single keying a four-run first inning. The Royals, who have not led since finishing off Thursday's 6-1 victory in Oakland, lost their fourth in a row. They are a season-worst five games below .500. Boyd departed in the third because of discomfort in his left arm. Lange left after recording just one out in the fifth with an unspecified problem.

Tigers lose 2 pitchers to injuries, end 3-game skid, beat KC

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas City Monarchs signed seven-year MLB veteran pitcher JJ Hoover Monday afternoon.

Hoover has played for the Cincinnati Reds, Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers before spending 2019 with the Fresno Grizzlies – a Washington Nationals’ triple-A club—and opting for free agency after the 2019 season.

“Anytime you have the opportunity to sign a player of JJ’s caliber, there is great excitement throughout the organization,” Monarchs manager Joe Calfapietra said. “Bringing in another player with major league experience only makes us stronger on and off the field.”

The 33-year-old righty was drafted in the 10th round of the 2008 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves and was a Baseball America Triple-A All-Star for the Louisville Bats in 2013.

He made his MLB debut August 25, 2012, with the Reds against the San Francisco Giants in a relief appearance. He threw one inning where he faced four batters, giving up a walk and no hits.

Hoover ultimately threw 285 innings across 290 games as a major league pitcher. He recorded a 19-21 record, a 4.17 ERA, 44 holds and six saves against big-league competition. He was a bullpen arm for his entire time in the majors.

The Pittsburgh-native finished his MLB career on April 10, 2018, and was assigned to the triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox the next day. He went to spring training with the Nationals the next year but was assigned to Fresno for the season where he made 16 starts pitched to a .500 record.

Hoover’s most recent work came in Australia with the Canberra Cavalry in 2019 where he was 4-2 with a 3.81 ERA across nine starts.

Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;will&nbsp;have&nbsp;an&nbsp;off-day&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;before&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;its&nbsp;nine-game&nbsp;homestand&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;night against Gary SouthShore. First&nbsp;pitch is slated for 7&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game&nbsp;<a href="about:blank" target="_blank">beginning at 6:40 p.m.</a>&nbsp;and the video stream will air on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>&nbsp;

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

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas City Monarchs signed seven-year MLB veteran pitcher JJ Hoover Monday afternoon. Hoover has played for the Cincinnati Reds, Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers before spending 2019 with the Fresno Grizzlies – a Washington Nationals’ triple-A club—and opting for free agency after the 2019 season.“Anytime you have the opportunity to sign a player of JJ’s caliber, there is great excitement throughout the organization,” Monarchs manager Joe Calfapietra said. “Bringing in another player with major league experience only makes us stronger on and off the field.”The 33-year-old righty was drafted in the 10th round of the 2008 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves and was a Baseball America Triple-A All-Star for the Louisville Bats in 2013.He made his MLB debut August 25, 2012, with the Reds against the San Francisco Giants in a relief appearance. He threw one inning where he faced four batters, giving up a walk and no hits.Hoover ultimately threw 285 innings across 290 games as a major league pitcher. He recorded a 19-21 record, a 4.17 ERA, 44 holds and six saves against big-league competition. He was a bullpen arm for his entire time in the majors.The Pittsburgh-native finished his MLB career on April 10, 2018, and was assigned to the triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox the next day. He went to spring training with the Nationals the next year but was assigned to Fresno for the season where he made 16 starts pitched to a .500 record.Hoover’s most recent work came in Australia with the Canberra Cavalry in 2019 where he was 4-2 with a 3.81 ERA across nine starts.Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;will&nbsp;have&nbsp;an&nbsp;off-day&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;before&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;its&nbsp;nine-game&nbsp;homestand&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;night against Gary SouthShore. First&nbsp;pitch is slated for 7&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game&nbsp;<a href="about:blank" target="_blank">beginning at 6:40 p.m.</a>&nbsp;and the video stream will air on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>&nbsp;-<a href="http://monarchsbaseball.com">Monarchs</a>-

Monarchs add MLB-experienced pitcher Hoover to roster

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Chris Bassitt escaped a scary line drive to win his seventh straight decision, Matt Olson homered twice and the Oakland Athletics powered past the Kansas City Royals for a 6-3 win. 

Olson hit solo shots in the third and fifth for his second two-homer game this season and 10th of his career, while Matt Chapman also connected to back Bassitt. After losing his first two decisions of the season, he hasn't lost.

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Chris Bassitt escaped a scary line drive to win his seventh straight decision, Matt Olson homered twice and the Oakland Athletics powered past the Kansas City Royals for a 6-3 win. Olson hit solo shots in the third and fifth for his second two-homer game this season and 10th of his career, while Matt Chapman also connected to back Bassitt. After losing his first two decisions of the season, he hasn't lost.

Bassitt wins 7th straight, Olson 2 HRs, A's beat Royals 6-3

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - After taking the first two games of a weekend&nbsp; series,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Monarchs&nbsp;used&nbsp;an explosion from their offense to defeat the Houston Apollos 11-5 and finish off a three-game&nbsp;sweep.

Following a scoreless frame in the top of the first from RHP Jake Matthys, Kansas City (12-10)&nbsp;jump-started its offense in the home half. Darnell Sweeney took the first pitch he saw from Houston starter Alex Merithew&nbsp;and&nbsp;pounded&nbsp;it&nbsp;off&nbsp;the&nbsp;wall&nbsp;in&nbsp;right&nbsp;field&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;lead-off double.&nbsp;On&nbsp;the next at-bat, Ryan Grotjohn dribbled a ball up the middle that deflected off Brain Dansereau’s&nbsp;glove and rolled into shallow center field. Sweeney managed to score on a wild throw home and&nbsp;Grotjohn moved all the way to third base on the throwing error. Later in the inning, Gabby&nbsp;Guerrero drove in the second run on a groundout to give the Monarchs a 2-0 lead.

The Apollos (4-20), however, answered back in the top half of the second. Despite scoring six&nbsp;combined runs in the double-header on Saturday, Houston rallied for four runs. David Aldrich&nbsp;rocketed&nbsp;a two-run home run, and Yeiler Peguero doubled home two more to give the&nbsp; Apollos&nbsp;a&nbsp;4-2 lead.

The back-and-forth matchup was flipped on its head, once again, in the bottom of the third. The&nbsp;Monarchs erased a two-run deficit three batters into the inning, as Grotjohn drove in Sweeney on&nbsp;an RBI-double and Guerrero singled home Grotjohn to knot things up at four. Kansas City,&nbsp;however, didn’t stop there. Colin Willis stroked an opposite field double off the wall in left field&nbsp;to score Guerrero, and the newly acquired Charcer Burks smacked the fourth double of the&nbsp;inning to give the Monarchs the lead, 6-4. Burks came around on a wild pitch — capping off a&nbsp;five-run&nbsp;third inning for Kansas City.

In the bottom of the fifth, the bats made noise again. With two outs, Kevin Santa drove in the&nbsp;eighth run on a hustle double to center field, Sweeney scored two more on his third double of the&nbsp;game,&nbsp;and Guerrero singled to tally the&nbsp;11th run on an RBI-single.

Back on the mound, Matthys settled into a groove. Aside from his four-run second inning, the&nbsp;right-hander tossed five scoreless innings and qualified for the win. Elroy Urbina, Erik Cha, and&nbsp;Carlos Diaz combined to complete the final three innings and secure the win for the Monarchs.

Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;will&nbsp;have&nbsp;an&nbsp;off-day&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;before&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;its&nbsp;nine-game&nbsp;homestand&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;night against Gary SouthShore. First&nbsp;pitch is slated for 7&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game&nbsp;beginning at 6:40 p.m.&nbsp;and the video stream will air on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - After taking the first two games of a weekend&nbsp; series,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Monarchs&nbsp;used&nbsp;an explosion from their offense to defeat the Houston Apollos 11-5 and finish off a three-game&nbsp;sweep.Following a scoreless frame in the top of the first from RHP Jake Matthys, Kansas City (12-10)&nbsp;jump-started its offense in the home half. Darnell Sweeney took the first pitch he saw from Houston starter Alex Merithew&nbsp;and&nbsp;pounded&nbsp;it&nbsp;off&nbsp;the&nbsp;wall&nbsp;in&nbsp;right&nbsp;field&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;lead-off double.&nbsp;On&nbsp;the next at-bat, Ryan Grotjohn dribbled a ball up the middle that deflected off Brain Dansereau’s&nbsp;glove and rolled into shallow center field. Sweeney managed to score on a wild throw home and&nbsp;Grotjohn moved all the way to third base on the throwing error. Later in the inning, Gabby&nbsp;Guerrero drove in the second run on a groundout to give the Monarchs a 2-0 lead.The Apollos (4-20), however, answered back in the top half of the second. Despite scoring six&nbsp;combined runs in the double-header on Saturday, Houston rallied for four runs. David Aldrich&nbsp;rocketed&nbsp;a two-run home run, and Yeiler Peguero doubled home two more to give the&nbsp; Apollos&nbsp;a&nbsp;4-2 lead.The back-and-forth matchup was flipped on its head, once again, in the bottom of the third. The&nbsp;Monarchs erased a two-run deficit three batters into the inning, as Grotjohn drove in Sweeney on&nbsp;an RBI-double and Guerrero singled home Grotjohn to knot things up at four. Kansas City,&nbsp;however, didn’t stop there. Colin Willis stroked an opposite field double off the wall in left field&nbsp;to score Guerrero, and the newly acquired Charcer Burks smacked the fourth double of the&nbsp;inning to give the Monarchs the lead, 6-4. Burks came around on a wild pitch — capping off a&nbsp;five-run&nbsp;third inning for Kansas City.In the bottom of the fifth, the bats made noise again. With two outs, Kevin Santa drove in the&nbsp;eighth run on a hustle double to center field, Sweeney scored two more on his third double of the&nbsp;game,&nbsp;and Guerrero singled to tally the&nbsp;11th run on an RBI-single.Back on the mound, Matthys settled into a groove. Aside from his four-run second inning, the&nbsp;right-hander tossed five scoreless innings and qualified for the win. Elroy Urbina, Erik Cha, and&nbsp;Carlos Diaz combined to complete the final three innings and secure the win for the Monarchs.Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;will&nbsp;have&nbsp;an&nbsp;off-day&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;before&nbsp;continuing&nbsp;its&nbsp;nine-game&nbsp;homestand&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;night against Gary SouthShore. First&nbsp;pitch is slated for 7&nbsp;p.m.&nbsp;The game can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game&nbsp;beginning at 6:40 p.m.&nbsp;and the video stream will air on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

Monarchs ground Apollos 11-5, sweep three-game series

TULSA, Okla. – Josh Winder pitched six innings, allowed one run on three hits and punched out seven Tulsa Drillers and earned his second win of the season.&nbsp; 

The Surge defeated the Tulsa Drillers 7-1 and won the final two games of the series.&nbsp;

Jose Miranda drilled the third pitch out of the ballpark to give Wichita a 1-0 lead and the Surge never looked back.&nbsp; The Surge added another run in the first and scored four in the second inning.&nbsp; Roy Morales and Aaron Whitefield each had a pair of hits and an RBI.&nbsp; Miranda led the team with three hits.

The Wind Surge allowed a run in the second inning and Winder cruised from then on.&nbsp; Wichita retried 21 consecutive hitters from the second inning until the ninth.&nbsp; Yennier Cano worked two scoreless innings and Jason Garcia made his Wichita debut with a scoreless ninth inning.

The Surge out-hit Tulsa 10-4.&nbsp; Wichita (20-16) moves within a game and half of first place Tulsa.

NOTES Wichita added a pair of pitchers on Sunday.&nbsp; Jhonleider Salinas was activated from temporary inactive roster.&nbsp; Adam Lau was signed as a free agent.&nbsp; Lau had pitched in seven games with AA-Portland in the Red Sox organization earlier this season.&nbsp;

Jermaine Palacios was hit by a pitch twice in the game, and Tulsa hit four batters. 

The Wind Surge also drew a season high nine walks.

COMING UP The Wind Surge return home for a six-game series with the St Louis Cardinals affiliate the Springfield Cardinals on Tuesday at 7:05 pm.&nbsp; Wichita will start RH Jordan Balazovic against LH Domingo Robles.&nbsp;&nbsp; Catch the game at MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.

TULSA, Okla. – Josh Winder pitched six innings, allowed one run on three hits and punched out seven Tulsa Drillers and earned his second win of the season.&nbsp; The Surge defeated the Tulsa Drillers 7-1 and won the final two games of the series.&nbsp;Jose Miranda drilled the third pitch out of the ballpark to give Wichita a 1-0 lead and the Surge never looked back.&nbsp; The Surge added another run in the first and scored four in the second inning.&nbsp; Roy Morales and Aaron Whitefield each had a pair of hits and an RBI.&nbsp; Miranda led the team with three hits.The Wind Surge allowed a run in the second inning and Winder cruised from then on.&nbsp; Wichita retried 21 consecutive hitters from the second inning until the ninth.&nbsp; Yennier Cano worked two scoreless innings and Jason Garcia made his Wichita debut with a scoreless ninth inning.The Surge out-hit Tulsa 10-4.&nbsp; Wichita (20-16) moves within a game and half of first place Tulsa.NOTES Wichita added a pair of pitchers on Sunday.&nbsp; Jhonleider Salinas was activated from temporary inactive roster.&nbsp; Adam Lau was signed as a free agent.&nbsp; Lau had pitched in seven games with AA-Portland in the Red Sox organization earlier this season.&nbsp; Jermaine Palacios was hit by a pitch twice in the game, and Tulsa hit four batters. The Wind Surge also drew a season high nine walks.COMING UP The Wind Surge return home for a six-game series with the St Louis Cardinals affiliate the Springfield Cardinals on Tuesday at 7:05 pm.&nbsp; Wichita will start RH Jordan Balazovic against LH Domingo Robles.&nbsp;&nbsp; Catch the game at MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.

Wind Surge downs Tulsa Drillers 7-1

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (11-10) completed a trade on Sunday, as the club acquired RHP Gregori Vasquez from the Gary&nbsp;SouthShore&nbsp;RailCats&nbsp;(12-12)&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;player&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;named later.

Vasquez,&nbsp;23,&nbsp;started&nbsp;four&nbsp;games&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;RailCats&nbsp;in&nbsp;2021.&nbsp;The&nbsp;right-hander&nbsp;went&nbsp;1-2&nbsp;with&nbsp;a&nbsp;3.63&nbsp;ERA&nbsp;—&nbsp;striking&nbsp;out&nbsp;23&nbsp;and&nbsp;walking&nbsp;just three in 17 and a third innings.&nbsp;Vasquez last pitched against the&nbsp;Monarchs on Thursday in Gary. The 23-year-old tossed five and a third innings and allowed three runs on&nbsp;eight hits with eight strikeouts.

Vasquez made 52 starts across five minor&nbsp;league seasons in the Cleveland Indians’ organization.&nbsp;The&nbsp;right-hander posted a career 3.36 ERA with a&nbsp; 1.152&nbsp;WHIP&nbsp;in&nbsp;356&nbsp;innings.&nbsp;He&nbsp;last&nbsp;pitched&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;major league organization in 2019 for&nbsp;the&nbsp;Arizona&nbsp;League Indians (Rookie Ball).

Vasquez&nbsp;is&nbsp;expected&nbsp;to&nbsp;make&nbsp;his&nbsp;first&nbsp;start&nbsp;for&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;against&nbsp;his&nbsp;former&nbsp;team&nbsp;when the Monarchs host the Gary SouthShore RailCats in game two of a three game series.

-<a href="http://monarchsbaseball,com">Monarchs</a>-

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— The Kansas City Monarchs (11-10) completed a trade on Sunday, as the club acquired RHP Gregori Vasquez from the Gary&nbsp;SouthShore&nbsp;RailCats&nbsp;(12-12)&nbsp;for&nbsp;a&nbsp;player&nbsp;to&nbsp;be&nbsp;named later.Vasquez,&nbsp;23,&nbsp;started&nbsp;four&nbsp;games&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;RailCats&nbsp;in&nbsp;2021.&nbsp;The&nbsp;right-hander&nbsp;went&nbsp;1-2&nbsp;with&nbsp;a&nbsp;3.63&nbsp;ERA&nbsp;—&nbsp;striking&nbsp;out&nbsp;23&nbsp;and&nbsp;walking&nbsp;just three in 17 and a third innings.&nbsp;Vasquez last pitched against the&nbsp;Monarchs on Thursday in Gary. The 23-year-old tossed five and a third innings and allowed three runs on&nbsp;eight hits with eight strikeouts.Vasquez made 52 starts across five minor&nbsp;league seasons in the Cleveland Indians’ organization.&nbsp;The&nbsp;right-hander posted a career 3.36 ERA with a&nbsp; 1.152&nbsp;WHIP&nbsp;in&nbsp;356&nbsp;innings.&nbsp;He&nbsp;last&nbsp;pitched&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;major league organization in 2019 for&nbsp;the&nbsp;Arizona&nbsp;League Indians (Rookie Ball).Vasquez&nbsp;is&nbsp;expected&nbsp;to&nbsp;make&nbsp;his&nbsp;first&nbsp;start&nbsp;for&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;against&nbsp;his&nbsp;former&nbsp;team&nbsp;when the Monarchs host the Gary SouthShore RailCats in game two of a three game series.-<a href="http://monarchsbaseball,com">Monarchs</a>-

Monarchs trade for RHP Gregori Vasquez

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

For the first time in their 2021 season, the Salina Liberty added a tally to the loss column as they fell to the Omaha Beef on Saturday by a final score of 39-35.

Many in league circles had hyped up this matchup as a potential championship preview and it delivered, as the top two teams in the CIF went toe to toe until the final whistle.

The Beef struck first on a 24 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Andrew Jackson to former Salina wide receiver Rashad Pargo.

Salina responded with three unanswered touchdowns and found themselves up 21-13 at the half.

On the other side of the break, Omaha looked refreshed and regrouped, striking for the first points of the half on a short TD run by Deshawn Jones.

The Liberty came right back with two more touchdowns, both to Juahem Byrd, who hauled in four TD passes on nine catches for 96 yards, to put Salina ahead 35-19 in the third quarter.

Unfortunately that would be the last time Salina would score, as Omaha began to chip away at the Liberty lead.

Deshawn Jones capped off the third quarter by hauling in a touchdown pass from Jackson and following a huge Liberty turnover the Beef struck again on a six yard TD run from Norman Darden to cut the lead to three.

Salina was stopped on downs deep in Omaha territory with under a minute to play but Omaha drove the length of the field and took their first lead since the first quarter on a touchdown pass to another ex-Salina receiver in Tyler Jones.

With twelve seconds to play, the Beef led 39-35, and nearly handed the Liberty excellent field position on the ensuing kickoff thanks to an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, but Salina reacted, offsetting the foul and forcing themselves to drive the length of the field in under 12 seconds.

The Liberty battled but couldn’t find the end zone, falling to the Beef in their first loss of the season 39-35.

Omaha remains one of the hottest teams in the league, having won five of their last six at 6-3.

With their first loss of the season, Salina moves to 8-1 and will have another shot to lock down the one-seed and home field for the playoffs with a win or an Omaha loss next week.

The Liberty return home for the final game in a best of three with Sioux City while the Beef play host to the Dodge City Law, a team they defeated just a week ago.

For more on the Liberty in 2021 stay tuned to the Salina Post.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618021366432.png" alt="This Salina Liberty recap is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>This Salina Liberty recap is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>For the first time in their 2021 season, the Salina Liberty added a tally to the loss column as they fell to the Omaha Beef on Saturday by a final score of 39-35.Many in league circles had hyped up this matchup as a potential championship preview and it delivered, as the top two teams in the CIF went toe to toe until the final whistle.The Beef struck first on a 24 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Andrew Jackson to former Salina wide receiver Rashad Pargo.Salina responded with three unanswered touchdowns and found themselves up 21-13 at the half.On the other side of the break, Omaha looked refreshed and regrouped, striking for the first points of the half on a short TD run by Deshawn Jones.The Liberty came right back with two more touchdowns, both to Juahem Byrd, who hauled in four TD passes on nine catches for 96 yards, to put Salina ahead 35-19 in the third quarter.Unfortunately that would be the last time Salina would score, as Omaha began to chip away at the Liberty lead.Deshawn Jones capped off the third quarter by hauling in a touchdown pass from Jackson and following a huge Liberty turnover the Beef struck again on a six yard TD run from Norman Darden to cut the lead to three.Salina was stopped on downs deep in Omaha territory with under a minute to play but Omaha drove the length of the field and took their first lead since the first quarter on a touchdown pass to another ex-Salina receiver in Tyler Jones.With twelve seconds to play, the Beef led 39-35, and nearly handed the Liberty excellent field position on the ensuing kickoff thanks to an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, but Salina reacted, offsetting the foul and forcing themselves to drive the length of the field in under 12 seconds.The Liberty battled but couldn’t find the end zone, falling to the Beef in their first loss of the season 39-35.Omaha remains one of the hottest teams in the league, having won five of their last six at 6-3.With their first loss of the season, Salina moves to 8-1 and will have another shot to lock down the one-seed and home field for the playoffs with a win or an Omaha loss next week.The Liberty return home for the final game in a best of three with Sioux City while the Beef play host to the Dodge City Law, a team they defeated just a week ago.For more on the Liberty in 2021 stay tuned to the Salina Post.

Late surge by Beef leads to first Liberty loss of 2021

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - It was a day full of RBIs for Kansas City with high-scoring games in both wins over Houston.

The Houston Apollos (4-19) kicked game one off in the top of the third inning with a homer hit by Brian Dansereau, then another hit by Alvaro Gonzalez.&nbsp;

Morgan McCullough hit a double ground ball to right field, and Darnell Sweeney walked to first. McCullough then stole third, and Sweeney went to second. Jan Hernandez was hit by pitch to get him to first, loading up the bases. Gabby Guerrero hit a sacrifice fly to third, allowing McCullough to score, and Sweeney moved to third.&nbsp;

Manager David Peterson was ejected in the middle of the fourth inning after he tried to dispute a third out for the Apollos.&nbsp;

The Monarchs (10-10) got busy in the bottom of the fifth, starting with a single to right field by catcher Alexis Olmeda followed by a walk for Sweeney. Grotjohn then hit a single to center field, loading up the bases. Hernandez walked to first, allowing Olmeda to punch in an RBI. Then a fantastic Guerrero grand slam to the bullpen put the Monarchs up 6-2.&nbsp;

Willis doubled to far-right field, and a single RBI to center field by Olmeda allowed Willis to score from second.&nbsp;

Elroy Urbina relieved winning pitcher Nick Travieso (1-4) in the top of the seventh. Travieso pitched for six innings, recorded six strikeouts, and allowed two runs.&nbsp;

Urbina finished the first game pitching one inning, recording two strikeouts and allowing one walk.&nbsp; Monarchs win game one of the double header, 7-2.&nbsp;

<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscoretext.html?gameid=561464" target="_blank">Box Score</a>

RHP Jameson McGrane started off the night with three straight strikeouts in the first inning.

The Monarchs offense started scoring in the second inning with an RBI Double and two more RBIs from new addition catcher Alexis Olmeda and shortstop Kevin Santa, giving them a quick 4-0 lead.

One inning full of strikeouts wasn’t enough for McGrane as he garnered three more strikeouts again in the third.

Santa gifted another RBI in the fourth inning, extending the Monarchs lead to 5-0.

Winning pitcher Cody Mincey matched McGrane’s success with four strikeouts in two innings.

It was then a series of unfortunate events for Kansas City as Houston scored two RBIs from Jordan Pontious and Brian Dansereau in the sixth inning, but with an outstretched hand from Johnny Field, that's where the runs stopped for the Apollos as they cut the Monarchs lead to 5-2.

Olmeda avoided a strikeout in the sixth inning, thanks to a wild pitch, allowing for an RBI from Charcer Burks, adding to the lead, 6-2. That wasn’t all for the Monarchs in the sixth as Olmeda earned his own RBI along with one more from Darnell Sweeney, making it 8-2 going into the last inning.

The Apollos weren’t going down quietly as they acquired two more RBIs from Breland Almadova and Pontious in the top of the seventh inning, but the Monarchs (11-10) ended with a final score of 8-4, putting them above .500 for the first time this season.

<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscoretext.html?gameid=553161" target="_blank">Box Score</a>

Kansas City and Houston will finish the series Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at Legends Field in KCK.&nbsp;<a>The game&nbsp;</a>can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 12:40 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a>

<a>Tickets&nbsp;to&nbsp;all&nbsp;Monarchs&nbsp;games&nbsp;can&nbsp;be&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;by&nbsp;calling&nbsp;</a><a href="about:blank" target="_blank">913-328-5618</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;by&nbsp;visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://monarchsbaseball.com/" target="_blank">monarchsbaseball.com</a>.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. - It was a day full of RBIs for Kansas City with high-scoring games in both wins over Houston.<h2>Game 1</h2>The Houston Apollos (4-19) kicked game one off in the top of the third inning with a homer hit by Brian Dansereau, then another hit by Alvaro Gonzalez.&nbsp;Morgan McCullough hit a double ground ball to right field, and Darnell Sweeney walked to first. McCullough then stole third, and Sweeney went to second. Jan Hernandez was hit by pitch to get him to first, loading up the bases. Gabby Guerrero hit a sacrifice fly to third, allowing McCullough to score, and Sweeney moved to third.&nbsp;Manager David Peterson was ejected in the middle of the fourth inning after he tried to dispute a third out for the Apollos.&nbsp;The Monarchs (10-10) got busy in the bottom of the fifth, starting with a single to right field by catcher Alexis Olmeda followed by a walk for Sweeney. Grotjohn then hit a single to center field, loading up the bases. Hernandez walked to first, allowing Olmeda to punch in an RBI. Then a fantastic Guerrero grand slam to the bullpen put the Monarchs up 6-2.&nbsp;Willis doubled to far-right field, and a single RBI to center field by Olmeda allowed Willis to score from second.&nbsp;Elroy Urbina relieved winning pitcher Nick Travieso (1-4) in the top of the seventh. Travieso pitched for six innings, recorded six strikeouts, and allowed two runs.&nbsp;Urbina finished the first game pitching one inning, recording two strikeouts and allowing one walk.&nbsp; Monarchs win game one of the double header, 7-2.&nbsp;<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscoretext.html?gameid=561464" target="_blank">Box Score</a><h2>Game 2</h2>RHP Jameson McGrane started off the night with three straight strikeouts in the first inning.The Monarchs offense started scoring in the second inning with an RBI Double and two more RBIs from new addition catcher Alexis Olmeda and shortstop Kevin Santa, giving them a quick 4-0 lead.One inning full of strikeouts wasn’t enough for McGrane as he garnered three more strikeouts again in the third.Santa gifted another RBI in the fourth inning, extending the Monarchs lead to 5-0.Winning pitcher Cody Mincey matched McGrane’s success with four strikeouts in two innings.It was then a series of unfortunate events for Kansas City as Houston scored two RBIs from Jordan Pontious and Brian Dansereau in the sixth inning, but with an outstretched hand from Johnny Field, that's where the runs stopped for the Apollos as they cut the Monarchs lead to 5-2.Olmeda avoided a strikeout in the sixth inning, thanks to a wild pitch, allowing for an RBI from Charcer Burks, adding to the lead, 6-2. That wasn’t all for the Monarchs in the sixth as Olmeda earned his own RBI along with one more from Darnell Sweeney, making it 8-2 going into the last inning.The Apollos weren’t going down quietly as they acquired two more RBIs from Breland Almadova and Pontious in the top of the seventh inning, but the Monarchs (11-10) ended with a final score of 8-4, putting them above .500 for the first time this season.<a href="http://baseball.pointstreak.com/boxscoretext.html?gameid=553161" target="_blank">Box Score</a>Kansas City and Houston will finish the series Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. at Legends Field in KCK.&nbsp;<a>The game&nbsp;</a>can be heard on the&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/kansas-city-monarchs-baseball" target="_blank">Monarchs Broadcast Network</a>&nbsp;with the pre-game beginning at 12:40 p.m. and the video stream airing on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aabaseball.tv/" target="_blank">aabaseball.tv.</a><a>Tickets&nbsp;to&nbsp;all&nbsp;Monarchs&nbsp;games&nbsp;can&nbsp;be&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;by&nbsp;calling&nbsp;</a><a href="about:blank" target="_blank">913-328-5618</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;by&nbsp;visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://monarchsbaseball.com/" target="_blank">monarchsbaseball.com</a>.

Monarchs sweep doubleheader against Houston Apollos

TULSA, Okla. - Aaron Whitefield drove home three runs and the Wichita Wind Surge defeated the Tulsa Drillers 4-2 in 10 innings in front of a sell-out crowd of 7,935 at ONEOK Field in Tulsa.

The Drillers scored a run in the fourth inning to take the early lead, 1-0.&nbsp; Tulsa added another run in the fifth inning to make it a 2-0 advantage.

The Surge were held without a hit for the first six innings of the game.&nbsp; Tulsa starter Ryan Pepiot allowed one base-runner on a sixth inning walk.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wind Surge offense tied the game in the seventh, Jermaine Palacios drew a lead-off walk and Ernie De La Trinidad singled to left field.&nbsp; Whitefield drilled a two out, two run single into centerfield to tie the game.

In the 10th inning the designated runner BJ Boyd advanced to third on a ground out from Andrew Bechtold and scored on a Whitefield sacrifice fly.&nbsp; Peter Mooney followed with a solo home run.

Zach Neff pitched an inning and two thirds to earn his third win of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wind Surge snapped a season long five game losing streak.&nbsp; The team is 2 ½ games back of Tulsa with a record of 19-16.

Wichita improved to 2-1 in extra-inning games.&nbsp; Caleb Hamilton's nine game hit streak came to an end with no hits in four at bats.&nbsp; Jovani Moran pitched two scoreless innings, he has not allowed a run in his last seven appearances (12 2/3 innings pitched).&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Wind Surge will conclude the six-game series in Tulsa on Sunday afternoon at 1:05 p.m.&nbsp; Wichita will start RHP Josh Winder (1-0, 2.27) against RHP Geraldo Carillio (1-0, 3.46).&nbsp;&nbsp; Catch the game on MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.

The Wind Surge return home on Tuesday to face Springfield Cardinals, AA-St Louis Cardinals.&nbsp; The Surge are home for a six-game series and hit the road for 12 games.&nbsp; Wichita is in a stretch of 18 of 24 away games.&nbsp;

TULSA, Okla. - Aaron Whitefield drove home three runs and the Wichita Wind Surge defeated the Tulsa Drillers 4-2 in 10 innings in front of a sell-out crowd of 7,935 at ONEOK Field in Tulsa.The Drillers scored a run in the fourth inning to take the early lead, 1-0.&nbsp; Tulsa added another run in the fifth inning to make it a 2-0 advantage.The Surge were held without a hit for the first six innings of the game.&nbsp; Tulsa starter Ryan Pepiot allowed one base-runner on a sixth inning walk.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wind Surge offense tied the game in the seventh, Jermaine Palacios drew a lead-off walk and Ernie De La Trinidad singled to left field.&nbsp; Whitefield drilled a two out, two run single into centerfield to tie the game.In the 10th inning the designated runner BJ Boyd advanced to third on a ground out from Andrew Bechtold and scored on a Whitefield sacrifice fly.&nbsp; Peter Mooney followed with a solo home run.Zach Neff pitched an inning and two thirds to earn his third win of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wind Surge snapped a season long five game losing streak.&nbsp; The team is 2 ½ games back of Tulsa with a record of 19-16.Wichita improved to 2-1 in extra-inning games.&nbsp; Caleb Hamilton's nine game hit streak came to an end with no hits in four at bats.&nbsp; Jovani Moran pitched two scoreless innings, he has not allowed a run in his last seven appearances (12 2/3 innings pitched).&nbsp;&nbsp;The Wind Surge will conclude the six-game series in Tulsa on Sunday afternoon at 1:05 p.m.&nbsp; Wichita will start RHP Josh Winder (1-0, 2.27) against RHP Geraldo Carillio (1-0, 3.46).&nbsp;&nbsp; Catch the game on MiLB-TV and <a href="http://Windsurge.com">Windsurge.com</a>.The Wind Surge return home on Tuesday to face Springfield Cardinals, AA-St Louis Cardinals.&nbsp; The Surge are home for a six-game series and hit the road for 12 games.&nbsp; Wichita is in a stretch of 18 of 24 away games.&nbsp;

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