By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

Southeast of Saline’s Lady Trojans battled to the very end of a low-scoring pitchers’ duel on Thursday, but came up a run shy of Silver Lake, falling in the regional final 4-3.

Karlee Zurfluh and Kendra Cook were both masterful in the circle, allowing just seven runs on eleven hits in a game that came down to a thrilling seventh inning.

Silver Lake wasted no time opening the scoring, as Kailyn Hanni led the game off with a walk, stole second, and came in to score on an RBI knock from Taylor Zordell.

SES quickly responded with a Kyiah Samuelson RBI single and a Kimber Ogorzolka solo shot to take a 2-1 lead in the second.

The Lady Eagles would flip that script two innings later when Kira Lowry drove a ball into the gap, plating two more runs to flip a one-run deficit to a one-run lead.

After surrendering those runs in the bottom of the first, Cook tightened the screws, setting down 15 batters in a row and taking a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the seventh.

Southeast did manage to get the bats going in the final frame, scoring a run on three singles, but the Lady Trojans left the tying run on second as the curtain fell on their season.

Silver Lake improves to 23-6, the defending state runners-up will have an opportunity to finish the job in Topeka next week.

For SES, another fantastic campaign comes to a close at 22-5.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostSoutheast of Saline’s Lady Trojans battled to the very end of a low-scoring pitchers’ duel on Thursday, but came up a run shy of Silver Lake, falling in the regional final 4-3.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Karlee Zurfluh and Kendra Cook were both masterful in the circle, allowing just seven runs on eleven hits in a game that came down to a thrilling seventh inning.Silver Lake wasted no time opening the scoring, as Kailyn Hanni led the game off with a walk, stole second, and came in to score on an RBI knock from Taylor Zordell.SES quickly responded with a Kyiah Samuelson RBI single and a Kimber Ogorzolka solo shot to take a 2-1 lead in the second.The Lady Eagles would flip that script two innings later when Kira Lowry drove a ball into the gap, plating two more runs to flip a one-run deficit to a one-run lead.After surrendering those runs in the bottom of the first, Cook tightened the screws, setting down 15 batters in a row and taking a 4-2 lead into the bottom of the seventh.Southeast did manage to get the bats going in the final frame, scoring a run on three singles, but the Lady Trojans left the tying run on second as the curtain fell on their season.Silver Lake improves to 23-6, the defending state runners-up will have an opportunity to finish the job in Topeka next week.For SES, another fantastic campaign comes to a close at 22-5.

🥎 Lady Trojan season comes to a close at hands of Silver Lake

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;With the landscape of college athletics changing at a rapid pace, which includes evolving calendar and recruiting demands for both coaches and student-athletes, K-State Athletics and the K-State Alumni Association have adjusted the long-time Catbacker Club program following discussions with club leadership.

While there will no longer be a formal two-week tour, the clubs across the state and region will continue to provide support and outreach for the University. The department will work closely with each club moving forward to facilitate the financial support to the Ahearn Fund as well as the K-State Alumni Association’s funding and awarding of local scholarships.&nbsp;

“The history of our Catbacker Clubs and the support they provide is very unique to college athletics and a benefit that we do not take for granted,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Talking internally and with our Catbacker Club leaders, we looked at factors such as the recruiting calendars, transfer portal dates, finals calendar for our student-athletes, and the recent overall attendance trends at some of our summer stops, and determined that adjustments are best as we move forward. But, I do want to be clear that the Catbacker Clubs are not going away, and their support and interaction with our coaches and student-athletes will remain. It will just be done more on a case-by-case basis with each club.”

The annual tour has been unlike any other across the country for decades as golf tournaments, social gatherings, dinner, live auctions and a program that features Wildcat coaches and athletics staff highlighted each stop. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the department announced some adjustments that included a shorter summer schedule for the events throughout the state.

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;With the landscape of college athletics changing at a rapid pace, which includes evolving calendar and recruiting demands for both coaches and student-athletes, K-State Athletics and the K-State Alumni Association have adjusted the long-time Catbacker Club program following discussions with club leadership.While there will no longer be a formal two-week tour, the clubs across the state and region will continue to provide support and outreach for the University. The department will work closely with each club moving forward to facilitate the financial support to the Ahearn Fund as well as the K-State Alumni Association’s funding and awarding of local scholarships.&nbsp;“The history of our Catbacker Clubs and the support they provide is very unique to college athletics and a benefit that we do not take for granted,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “Talking internally and with our Catbacker Club leaders, we looked at factors such as the recruiting calendars, transfer portal dates, finals calendar for our student-athletes, and the recent overall attendance trends at some of our summer stops, and determined that adjustments are best as we move forward. But, I do want to be clear that the Catbacker Clubs are not going away, and their support and interaction with our coaches and student-athletes will remain. It will just be done more on a case-by-case basis with each club.”The annual tour has been unlike any other across the country for decades as golf tournaments, social gatherings, dinner, live auctions and a program that features Wildcat coaches and athletics staff highlighted each stop. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the department announced some adjustments that included a shorter summer schedule for the events throughout the state.

K-State Athletics and Alumni Association Announce Adjustments to Catbacker Outreach

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — North Florida coach Matthew Driscoll resigned after 16 years with the Ospreys on Thursday and accepted a job as the associate head coach on Jerome Tang's staff at Kansas State.

The 60-year-old Driscoll and Tang have known each other for more than two decades, spending six seasons together on Scott Drew's staff at Baylor. Driscoll left to become head coach at North Florida in 2009, and led the Ospreys to three Atlantic Sun regular-season titles, the NCAA Tournament in 2015 and the NIT the following year.

North Florida finished 15-17 last season.

“Coach Driscoll is a proven program builder and an exceptional teacher of the game,” Tang said in a statement released by Kansas State. “His ability to develop players and implement high-level offensive systems is second to none.”

Driscoll also has been the head coach at the high school level and at La Roche, a Division III school in Pennsylvania, along with an assistant at Slippery Rock, Wyoming, Clemson and Valparaiso.

“I know some will wonder why I would leave being a head coach to become an assistant coach, but this was a no-brainer in every aspect for us,” Driscoll said. “We all know that work brings profit and if you have studied Coach Tang and his program, that’s what they do. My responsibility will be to continue to nurture, encourage and expound upon this foundation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747945128776.jpeg" alt="FILE - North Florida head coach Matthew Driscoll watches from the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Iowa, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - North Florida head coach Matthew Driscoll watches from the bench during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Iowa, Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — North Florida coach Matthew Driscoll resigned after 16 years with the Ospreys on Thursday and accepted a job as the associate head coach on Jerome Tang's staff at Kansas State.The 60-year-old Driscoll and Tang have known each other for more than two decades, spending six seasons together on Scott Drew's staff at Baylor. Driscoll left to become head coach at North Florida in 2009, and led the Ospreys to three Atlantic Sun regular-season titles, the NCAA Tournament in 2015 and the NIT the following year.North Florida finished 15-17 last season.“Coach Driscoll is a proven program builder and an exceptional teacher of the game,” Tang said in a statement released by Kansas State. “His ability to develop players and implement high-level offensive systems is second to none.”Driscoll also has been the head coach at the high school level and at La Roche, a Division III school in Pennsylvania, along with an assistant at Slippery Rock, Wyoming, Clemson and Valparaiso.“I know some will wonder why I would leave being a head coach to become an assistant coach, but this was a no-brainer in every aspect for us,” Driscoll said. “We all know that work brings profit and if you have studied Coach Tang and his program, that’s what they do. My responsibility will be to continue to nurture, encourage and expound upon this foundation.”

🏀 Tang adds Driscoll to K-State staff as associate head coach

The Sacred Heart baseball season met an unfortunate end in Wednesday’s regional semifinals as the bats went cold and the Knights fell to Ellis 4-3.

It was an incredibly quick, 90-minute affair that saw just seven runs and eight hits throughout the seven-inning runtime.

Ellis did all of their damage in the bottom of the second, where a walk and four hits brought in four Railer runs.

Sacred Heart responded with a 2-RBI single of their own by Leo Ngiraindong in the fourth inning, but from there, both pitchers buckled down, and there would be no more hits for the rest of the game.

The Knights did capitalize on a walk in the bottom of the seventh, cutting the lead to one on a sacrifice fly, but that was as close as Sacred Heart got, dropping the semifinal 4-3.

Cayson Ivey and Brady Wells both pitched well on the hill, their effort matched by Ben Byers, who allowed just three runs on four hits, walking three and striking out two in a complete game win.

Sacred Heart’s season drew to a close at 18-8 while Ellis advanced to play TMP in the regional final, a game the Monarchs would dominate, winning 15-0 to punch their ticket to state.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Sacred Heart baseball season met an unfortunate end in Wednesday’s regional semifinals as the bats went cold and the Knights fell to Ellis 4-3.It was an incredibly quick, 90-minute affair that saw just seven runs and eight hits throughout the seven-inning runtime.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis did all of their damage in the bottom of the second, where a walk and four hits brought in four Railer runs.Sacred Heart responded with a 2-RBI single of their own by Leo Ngiraindong in the fourth inning, but from there, both pitchers buckled down, and there would be no more hits for the rest of the game.The Knights did capitalize on a walk in the bottom of the seventh, cutting the lead to one on a sacrifice fly, but that was as close as Sacred Heart got, dropping the semifinal 4-3.Cayson Ivey and Brady Wells both pitched well on the hill, their effort matched by Ben Byers, who allowed just three runs on four hits, walking three and striking out two in a complete game win.Sacred Heart’s season drew to a close at 18-8 while Ellis advanced to play TMP in the regional final, a game the Monarchs would dominate, winning 15-0 to punch their ticket to state.

⚾️ Sacred Heart tripped up by Ellis in regional semis

MARION, Ind. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5bea085a-1216-4d46-b4ac-a598564acfc0?elinkdata=26924">Madelyn Wolf</a> simply wanted to qualify for the NAIA Women's National Track and Field Championships in her first season at Kansas Wesleyan.

She never imagined she would head home as the javelin national champion - the first in any sport in KWU history.

"It's just crazy, I can't believe it. I feel so blessed," Wolf said Wednesday night after her throw of 44.65 meters (146 feet, 6 inches) propelled her to the title.

Wolf's All-American and championship effort came on her first throw of the evening.

"She got up on that runway and just let it rip from the get-go," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1334d42b-2a23-4e7f-a6bf-b4f9e42409de?elinkdata=26924">Kyle Hiser</a> said. "Some freshmen might be a little intimidated at that stage but that's not Maddy Wolf. She just gets out there and just goes."

"I was like 'I just need to not foul it, I just need to get a mark and if it's a big mark we can keep going,'" Wolf said. "I needed something and to have it be a PR (personal record) was really amazing. It was surreal."

Her distance was 10 centimeters (four inches) better than runner-up Kendra Odegard of Valley City State at 44.55m (146-2). Mary Lorang of Benedictine placed third with a mark of 44.07m (144-7).

Wolf's historic feat came in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

"My main thought was stay warm; I was like 'I can't feel my fingers,'" she said. "I was really nervous with the rain coming down and it was really windy. I said a quick prayer and was like 'whatever happens, it's in God's hands' and I let her rip."

"It was probably like 45 degrees, so it was a perfect Kansas day," Hiser said.

Wolf, who hails from Olathe, said the adverse conditions were not unfamiliar.

"I was thinking we practice in this all the time in Kansas, so it was nice to know that we kind of had an upper hand being in this more often," she said.

Wolf's initial toss put her atop the leaderboard but there were five more throws to go making for a long and agonizing wait.

"My coaches could probably tell you I was a nervous wreck," she said. "I was pacing everywhere trying to stay warm but I knew it was in God's hands, so I was at peace with that."

Being the first Coyote to win a national championship was starting to sink in later Wednesday night.

"My goal for the season was literally to get here and then once (classmate) Mayce (Russell) and I hit that (qualifying) mark I was like 'let's just get All-American,'" she said. "When I saw that first throw put me in first I was like 'maybe this could be a reality.'"

Russell placed 17th in the competition with a throw of 37.89m (124-4).

KWU's other national qualifiers did not reach the finals in their events on Wednesday.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c056b2f2-6cf6-4f39-b800-9a2819ad9042?elinkdata=26924">Keegan Lott</a> missed the finals in the men's javelin after posting a best throw of 52.03m (171-7) and placing 22nd earlier in the day.

The men's 4x800-meter relay team placed 12th with a time of 7:43.04. Team members were <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0957d910-f673-4e93-8a28-2f1c2df4f0c2?elinkdata=26924">Ty Davidson</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/04a72025-e10d-49da-9a53-e5f16bef24eb?elinkdata=26924">Julian Avila</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/72af8259-89b5-493b-9aab-511302f857c4?elinkdata=26924">Triston Cottone</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2da6d910-6eb7-4aa8-9c1e-909e60c3d01c?elinkdata=26924">Wyatt Johnson</a>.

MARION, Ind. - <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5bea085a-1216-4d46-b4ac-a598564acfc0?elinkdata=26924">Madelyn Wolf</a> simply wanted to qualify for the NAIA Women's National Track and Field Championships in her first season at Kansas Wesleyan.She never imagined she would head home as the javelin national champion - the first in any sport in KWU history."It's just crazy, I can't believe it. I feel so blessed," Wolf said Wednesday night after her throw of 44.65 meters (146 feet, 6 inches) propelled her to the title.Wolf's All-American and championship effort came on her first throw of the evening."She got up on that runway and just let it rip from the get-go," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1334d42b-2a23-4e7f-a6bf-b4f9e42409de?elinkdata=26924">Kyle Hiser</a> said. "Some freshmen might be a little intimidated at that stage but that's not Maddy Wolf. She just gets out there and just goes.""I was like 'I just need to not foul it, I just need to get a mark and if it's a big mark we can keep going,'" Wolf said. "I needed something and to have it be a PR (personal record) was really amazing. It was surreal."Her distance was 10 centimeters (four inches) better than runner-up Kendra Odegard of Valley City State at 44.55m (146-2). Mary Lorang of Benedictine placed third with a mark of 44.07m (144-7).Wolf's historic feat came in less-than-ideal weather conditions."My main thought was stay warm; I was like 'I can't feel my fingers,'" she said. "I was really nervous with the rain coming down and it was really windy. I said a quick prayer and was like 'whatever happens, it's in God's hands' and I let her rip.""It was probably like 45 degrees, so it was a perfect Kansas day," Hiser said.Wolf, who hails from Olathe, said the adverse conditions were not unfamiliar."I was thinking we practice in this all the time in Kansas, so it was nice to know that we kind of had an upper hand being in this more often," she said.Wolf's initial toss put her atop the leaderboard but there were five more throws to go making for a long and agonizing wait."My coaches could probably tell you I was a nervous wreck," she said. "I was pacing everywhere trying to stay warm but I knew it was in God's hands, so I was at peace with that."Being the first Coyote to win a national championship was starting to sink in later Wednesday night."My goal for the season was literally to get here and then once (classmate) Mayce (Russell) and I hit that (qualifying) mark I was like 'let's just get All-American,'" she said. "When I saw that first throw put me in first I was like 'maybe this could be a reality.'"Russell placed 17th in the competition with a throw of 37.89m (124-4).KWU's other national qualifiers did not reach the finals in their events on Wednesday.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c056b2f2-6cf6-4f39-b800-9a2819ad9042?elinkdata=26924">Keegan Lott</a> missed the finals in the men's javelin after posting a best throw of 52.03m (171-7) and placing 22nd earlier in the day.The men's 4x800-meter relay team placed 12th with a time of 7:43.04. Team members were <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/0957d910-f673-4e93-8a28-2f1c2df4f0c2?elinkdata=26924">Ty Davidson</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/04a72025-e10d-49da-9a53-e5f16bef24eb?elinkdata=26924">Julian Avila</a>, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/72af8259-89b5-493b-9aab-511302f857c4?elinkdata=26924">Triston Cottone</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/2da6d910-6eb7-4aa8-9c1e-909e60c3d01c?elinkdata=26924">Wyatt Johnson</a>.

Wolf wins NAIA Women's Javelin title, becomes KWU's first-ever National Champion

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (May 21, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti drove in a pair of runs in a 6-4 win for the Wichita Wind Surge, who never trailed the San Antonio Missions at Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium. The series is now tied up at a game apiece in the Texas League interdivisional matchup between the Wind Surge and Missions.

Aaron Sabato cracked a single to center in the top of the first for the game’s first run. Andrew Cossetti doubled toward the left field corner in the next at-bat for another RBI knock and a 2-0 Wichita lead after a pair of two-out run-scoring hits.&nbsp;

After Rosario stole home on a rundown, Cossetti singled in his second RBI in the top of the third to double the Wind Surge lead.&nbsp;

Brandon Valenzuela got the Missions on the board with an infield single in the bottom of the fifth to make it a three-run game. It marked the first half inning of three where a run came across, and the scoreboard read 5-2 Wichita after six.&nbsp;

An infield single by Romeo Sanabria followed a Moisés Gomez bases-loaded walk to bring the game within a run in the last of the seventh. Jorel Ortega gave the Wind Surge a two-run lead again at 6-4 by scampering home on a wild pitch with two outs in the top of the eighth.&nbsp;

Ben Ross ended the eighth on a massive 6-4 double play with the tying run on base before Cody Laweryson threw a routine ninth to give Wichita their first win of the series.

Mike Paredes improved to 6-0 with the win after serving as the first reliever out of the bullpen. He surrendered three earned runs with three walks and as many strikeouts over an inning and two-thirds. Laweryson got his fifth save of the season with the win.&nbsp;

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (May 21, 2025)—Andrew Cossetti drove in a pair of runs in a 6-4 win for the Wichita Wind Surge, who never trailed the San Antonio Missions at Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium. The series is now tied up at a game apiece in the Texas League interdivisional matchup between the Wind Surge and Missions.Aaron Sabato cracked a single to center in the top of the first for the game’s first run. Andrew Cossetti doubled toward the left field corner in the next at-bat for another RBI knock and a 2-0 Wichita lead after a pair of two-out run-scoring hits.&nbsp;After Rosario stole home on a rundown, Cossetti singled in his second RBI in the top of the third to double the Wind Surge lead.&nbsp;Brandon Valenzuela got the Missions on the board with an infield single in the bottom of the fifth to make it a three-run game. It marked the first half inning of three where a run came across, and the scoreboard read 5-2 Wichita after six.&nbsp;An infield single by Romeo Sanabria followed a Moisés Gomez bases-loaded walk to bring the game within a run in the last of the seventh. Jorel Ortega gave the Wind Surge a two-run lead again at 6-4 by scampering home on a wild pitch with two outs in the top of the eighth.&nbsp;Ben Ross ended the eighth on a massive 6-4 double play with the tying run on base before Cody Laweryson threw a routine ninth to give Wichita their first win of the series.Mike Paredes improved to 6-0 with the win after serving as the first reliever out of the bullpen. He surrendered three earned runs with three walks and as many strikeouts over an inning and two-thirds. Laweryson got his fifth save of the season with the win.&nbsp;POSTGAME NOTES<ul>
 <li>Rozek made his 100th&nbsp;career appearance in the Twins organization and 63rd&nbsp;start.&nbsp; It was his 54th&nbsp;career appearance for Wichita and he is tied for second all time for career wins, 13 trailing Kody Funderburk by one win.</li><li>Tanner Schobel extended his hit streak to ten games, longest of the season for the Surge.</li><li>Mike Paredes leads the Texas League in wins (6).&nbsp;</li><li>Cody Laweryson leads the Wind Surge in saves (5).&nbsp;</li><li>Andrew Cossetti records his third multi-RBI game of the season.&nbsp;</li><li>Jorel Ortega walks three times, scoring twice out of the number nine spot in the lineup.</li>
 </ul>

Three different Wichita hitters gather multiple hits in the win

BY DEVIN HANNEY Sports Director

On Wednesday, the Lady Lions of Minneapolis had a chance to do something only one other team in school history has done: win a Regional softball championship.

Minneapolis (20-4) would host a familiar opponent and NCAA League foe, the Beloit Trojans (19-8).&nbsp;

Beloit scored one run in the top of the first inning but relinquished that lead to Minneapolis in the bottom of the 2nd as Minneapolis scored two runs. 

Sierra Cossart led off the inning with a double to center field, then scored as Miley McClure hit her home run to tie the game. McClure then scored on a slow roller hit by Ashlyn Roth.&nbsp;

Beloit got one more run in the top of the third inning to tie the game at two, but in the bottom of the inning, Minneapolis displayed their version of "small ball". The Lions would score four runs as they batted through the lineup, but ultimately left the bases loaded to end the inning.&nbsp;

To start the fourth inning trailing 2-6, Beloit was unable to score. Then, in the bottom of the fourth, Miley McClure would strike again. With the bases full of Lions and one out, McClure would take a 1-1 pitch out of the park to dead center field for a grand slam. 

That home run would give the Lions a 10-2 lead.&nbsp;

Beloit showed signs of a rally in the top of the fifth, scoring two runs but stranding two more as light rain set in. 

That rain set the tone for the rest of the game as it would be a defensive battle to the finish, and Minneapolis hit the finish line with a 10-4 lead.&nbsp;

Braedee Weatherman got the win pitching for Minneapolis as they extended their record to 21-4 and ride a seven game winning streak into the 3A State Tournament. It is the first trip back to the State Tourney for Minneapolis since 2014 and just the second trip in school history. 

BY DEVIN HANNEY Sports DirectorOn Wednesday, the Lady Lions of Minneapolis had a chance to do something only one other team in school history has done: win a Regional softball championship.Minneapolis (20-4) would host a familiar opponent and NCAA League foe, the Beloit Trojans (19-8).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Beloit scored one run in the top of the first inning but relinquished that lead to Minneapolis in the bottom of the 2nd as Minneapolis scored two runs. Sierra Cossart led off the inning with a double to center field, then scored as Miley McClure hit her home run to tie the game. McClure then scored on a slow roller hit by Ashlyn Roth.&nbsp;Beloit got one more run in the top of the third inning to tie the game at two, but in the bottom of the inning, Minneapolis displayed their version of "small ball". The Lions would score four runs as they batted through the lineup, but ultimately left the bases loaded to end the inning.&nbsp;To start the fourth inning trailing 2-6, Beloit was unable to score. Then, in the bottom of the fourth, Miley McClure would strike again. With the bases full of Lions and one out, McClure would take a 1-1 pitch out of the park to dead center field for a grand slam. That home run would give the Lions a 10-2 lead.&nbsp;Beloit showed signs of a rally in the top of the fifth, scoring two runs but stranding two more as light rain set in. That rain set the tone for the rest of the game as it would be a defensive battle to the finish, and Minneapolis hit the finish line with a 10-4 lead.&nbsp;Braedee Weatherman got the win pitching for Minneapolis as they extended their record to 21-4 and ride a seven game winning streak into the 3A State Tournament. It is the first trip back to the State Tourney for Minneapolis since 2014 and just the second trip in school history.

🥎 Lady Lions punch second-ever ticket to state with win over Beloit

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits including a two-run homer, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each had two hits and two RBIs, and the Kansas City Royals got their offense going in a 8-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday.

The Royals had scored three runs or fewer in their previous seven games and were held to four runs or fewer in 42 of their first 50 games.

Kansas City led 3-1 in the top of the fourth when Perez hit an opposite field homer off Giants starter Logan Webb (5-4) with Witt aboard.

The Royals extended the lead to 8-2 in the fifth, when Drew Waters hit a leadoff double during a two-run inning.

Matt Chapman, Patrick Bailey and Heliot Ramos homered for San Francisco.

Ramos hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Lucas Erceg to cut the lead to 8-4.

Jonathan Bowlan (1-0) gave up one run on two hits in 1 1/3 innings in relief of opener Daniel Lynch IV, who walked three and gave up a hit in 1 2/3 innings.

Webb (5-4) gave up six runs (three earned) on 10 hits in four innings. The Giants’ ace struck out five and walked none.

Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel made a sliding catch on a low line drive off Wilmer Flores’ bat with the bases loaded and two outs in the fourth inning of a 6-2 game.

The Royals improved to a major league-best 17-1 when scoring four runs or more.

Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.71 ERA) will pitch Friday’s series opener against the Twins in Minnesota. The Giants have not yet announced a starter for Friday’s series opener against the Nationals in Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747909915500.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the San Francisco Giants, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits including a two-run homer, Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each had two hits and two RBIs, and the Kansas City Royals got their offense going in a 8-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday.The Royals had scored three runs or fewer in their previous seven games and were held to four runs or fewer in 42 of their first 50 games.Kansas City led 3-1 in the top of the fourth when Perez hit an opposite field homer off Giants starter Logan Webb (5-4) with Witt aboard.The Royals extended the lead to 8-2 in the fifth, when Drew Waters hit a leadoff double during a two-run inning.Matt Chapman, Patrick Bailey and Heliot Ramos homered for San Francisco.Ramos hit a two-run homer in the ninth off Lucas Erceg to cut the lead to 8-4.Jonathan Bowlan (1-0) gave up one run on two hits in 1 1/3 innings in relief of opener Daniel Lynch IV, who walked three and gave up a hit in 1 2/3 innings.Webb (5-4) gave up six runs (three earned) on 10 hits in four innings. The Giants’ ace struck out five and walked none.<h2>Key moment</h2>Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel made a sliding catch on a low line drive off Wilmer Flores’ bat with the bases loaded and two outs in the fourth inning of a 6-2 game.<h2>Key stat</h2>The Royals improved to a major league-best 17-1 when scoring four runs or more.<h2>Up next</h2>Kansas City LHP Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.71 ERA) will pitch Friday’s series opener against the Twins in Minnesota. The Giants have not yet announced a starter for Friday’s series opener against the Nationals in Washington.

⚾️ Perez powers Royals with 3 hits, including a homer, in win over Giants

Harper Taylor is the new women's basketball coach at Kansas Wesleyan, but she is not new to the university.

Taylor was an assistant under former Coyote coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fcab9c98-bc21-45b0-91bd-6f45e82268b8?elinkdata=26893">Ryan Showman</a> for two seasons before moving on as an assistant at Division II Metro State Denver the last two years.

"I get to go back and continue to build better relationships as a head coach versus an assistant and I'm just really excited to do that," Taylor said. "It's a great university that I get to be a part of, and I just can't wait to build on that."

Taylor helped KWU win 41 games (32 in the Kansas Conference) during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. She was also a graduate assistant at Division I Texas El Paso during the 2019-20 season.

"First and foremost, her energy," KWU Athletic Director <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/39c16c6d-87b4-41d8-b7d5-0304135078c1?elinkdata=26893">Miguel Paredes</a> said. "Her familiarity with Kansas Wesleyan and Salina, and she's a proven leader. Her mission and values align with what we're doing here, her clear vision of building a culture of excellence and how we can continue the success. We're not stopping and trying to rebuild but are reloading. Her student-athlete development academically, socially, spiritually was a big plus for me as well. She demonstrated what a confident leader should be - she reminds me of (former Tennessee coach) Pat Summitt in a way."

"Coach Taylor is a great choice for our new women's basketball leader," said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. "Her familiarity with our area, our campus and the schools in our region will prove invaluable in continuing our winning tradition. We look forward to seeing her accomplishments."

Taylor credits Showman for convincing her to stay the course with her career.

"With the Covid pandemic I was kind of in a place where I was really questioning if I should continue being in this profession," she said. "He showed me the ropes and gave me a lot of grace and showed me how to do things successfully and how to do things with integrity. I would not be where I'm at in my coaching journey if it weren't for Showman. I feel like everything that I learned from not only him but also Tanya Haave (Metro State coach) at the Division II level has put me in the most successful position to be a head coach."

Paredes said that became apparent during the search.

"The fact that she's been at all levels and her experience is what helped set her apart from the other candidates," he said. "We wanted a person who can see what it takes to have those types of athletes and knows what to look for in the recruiting aspect. Everybody thinks they're a Division I athlete, if not then at least Division II, and I think Harper has a keen eye. I asked her, 'what do you think we need to do have a great year?' She said, 'we need speed, we need size,' and she's right on point."

Taylor said energy and defense will be hallmarks of her teams.

"Everyone can expect a team that's going to be really loud because I'm a very communicative person," she said. "I'm very vocal about what I want and how I want things done. Coyote fans are going to see we have a really loud bench and we're going to be super loud on the court. And we're going to get it done on the defensive end. I think I can work with our offense and bring in some recruiting pieces, but our philosophy is going to be built on the defensive end."

Taylor was a standout athlete at Greeley West High School in Greeley, Colo., averaging 16.8 points and 6.2 rebounds in her senior year. She began her college career at Nebraska-Kearney then transferred to Hastings (Neb.) for her final three seasons. She helped the Broncos advance to the semifinals of the NAIA National Championship twice and the quarterfinals once.

"She brings the excitement, she brings the discipline, and she brings the drive and the hunger to be successful," Paredes said.

Harper Taylor is the new women's basketball coach at Kansas Wesleyan, but she is not new to the university.Taylor was an assistant under former Coyote coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/fcab9c98-bc21-45b0-91bd-6f45e82268b8?elinkdata=26893">Ryan Showman</a> for two seasons before moving on as an assistant at Division II Metro State Denver the last two years."I get to go back and continue to build better relationships as a head coach versus an assistant and I'm just really excited to do that," Taylor said. "It's a great university that I get to be a part of, and I just can't wait to build on that."Taylor helped KWU win 41 games (32 in the Kansas Conference) during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. She was also a graduate assistant at Division I Texas El Paso during the 2019-20 season."First and foremost, her energy," KWU Athletic Director <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/39c16c6d-87b4-41d8-b7d5-0304135078c1?elinkdata=26893">Miguel Paredes</a> said. "Her familiarity with Kansas Wesleyan and Salina, and she's a proven leader. Her mission and values align with what we're doing here, her clear vision of building a culture of excellence and how we can continue the success. We're not stopping and trying to rebuild but are reloading. Her student-athlete development academically, socially, spiritually was a big plus for me as well. She demonstrated what a confident leader should be - she reminds me of (former Tennessee coach) Pat Summitt in a way.""Coach Taylor is a great choice for our new women's basketball leader," said Ken Oliver, executive vice president of advancement and university operations. "Her familiarity with our area, our campus and the schools in our region will prove invaluable in continuing our winning tradition. We look forward to seeing her accomplishments."Taylor credits Showman for convincing her to stay the course with her career."With the Covid pandemic I was kind of in a place where I was really questioning if I should continue being in this profession," she said. "He showed me the ropes and gave me a lot of grace and showed me how to do things successfully and how to do things with integrity. I would not be where I'm at in my coaching journey if it weren't for Showman. I feel like everything that I learned from not only him but also Tanya Haave (Metro State coach) at the Division II level has put me in the most successful position to be a head coach."Paredes said that became apparent during the search."The fact that she's been at all levels and her experience is what helped set her apart from the other candidates," he said. "We wanted a person who can see what it takes to have those types of athletes and knows what to look for in the recruiting aspect. Everybody thinks they're a Division I athlete, if not then at least Division II, and I think Harper has a keen eye. I asked her, 'what do you think we need to do have a great year?' She said, 'we need speed, we need size,' and she's right on point."Taylor said energy and defense will be hallmarks of her teams."Everyone can expect a team that's going to be really loud because I'm a very communicative person," she said. "I'm very vocal about what I want and how I want things done. Coyote fans are going to see we have a really loud bench and we're going to be super loud on the court. And we're going to get it done on the defensive end. I think I can work with our offense and bring in some recruiting pieces, but our philosophy is going to be built on the defensive end."Taylor was a standout athlete at Greeley West High School in Greeley, Colo., averaging 16.8 points and 6.2 rebounds in her senior year. She began her college career at Nebraska-Kearney then transferred to Hastings (Neb.) for her final three seasons. She helped the Broncos advance to the semifinals of the NAIA National Championship twice and the quarterfinals once."She brings the excitement, she brings the discipline, and she brings the drive and the hunger to be successful," Paredes said.

Harper Taylor to lead KWU Women's Basketball program

Over the weekend, the Sacred Heart golf team won an unprecedented tenth straight regional tournament, moving them one step closer to a tenth straight 2A state title.

The Knights finished 12 strokes ahead of the next closest team in Hutch Trinity, carding a 307 ahead of the Celtics at 319.

Sacred Heart grabbed the top two spots at this event individually, and three of the top four, ensuring themselves the victory and a ticket to Turkey Creek.

Luke Newell had the best overall score at this event, shooting a 69 on the day ahead of teammate Dom Matteucci who finished second with a 75.

“We’ve made significant strides this year, adn we’ve shown the ability to play golf at a high level,” Newell said. “We have what it takes to win another state title.

The Knights will battle it out for a tenth-straight title on Tuesday, May 27 and Wednesday May 28th at the McPherson Turkey Creek Golf Course.

Regional Team Results 1. Sacred Heart - 307 2. Hutch Trinity - 319 3. Ellinwood - 355 4. Smith Center - 390 5. Solomon - 431 6. Herington - 438 7. Inman - 449 8. Ell-Saline - 489

Sacred Heart Individual Results 1. Luke Newell - 69 2. Dom Matteucci - 75 T4. Will Tuttle - 77 10. Ben Marrs - 86 11. Ethan Newell - 87

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostOver the weekend, the Sacred Heart golf team won an unprecedented tenth straight regional tournament, moving them one step closer to a tenth straight 2A state title.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747844984686.png" alt="The Knights proudly display their regional banner and plaque after claiming victory at the 2A regional." />
 <figcaption>The Knights proudly display their regional banner and plaque after claiming victory at the 2A regional.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Knights finished 12 strokes ahead of the next closest team in Hutch Trinity, carding a 307 ahead of the Celtics at 319.Sacred Heart grabbed the top two spots at this event individually, and three of the top four, ensuring themselves the victory and a ticket to Turkey Creek.Luke Newell had the best overall score at this event, shooting a 69 on the day ahead of teammate Dom Matteucci who finished second with a 75.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747845086155.png" alt="Luke Newell focuses up to sink a putt at the 2A regional" />
 <figcaption>Luke Newell focuses up to sink a putt at the 2A regional</figcaption>
 </figure>“We’ve made significant strides this year, adn we’ve shown the ability to play golf at a high level,” Newell said. “We have what it takes to win another state title.The Knights will battle it out for a tenth-straight title on Tuesday, May 27 and Wednesday May 28th at the McPherson Turkey Creek Golf Course.Regional Team Results 1. Sacred Heart - 307 2. Hutch Trinity - 319 3. Ellinwood - 355 4. Smith Center - 390 5. Solomon - 431 6. Herington - 438 7. Inman - 449 8. Ell-Saline - 489Sacred Heart Individual Results 1. Luke Newell - 69 2. Dom Matteucci - 75 T4. Will Tuttle - 77 10. Ben Marrs - 86 11. Ethan Newell - 87

Sacred Heart golf breezes through regional in pursiuit of tenth-straight state title

BY ANTHONY GORGES Salina Post Contributor

The Chapman Lady Irish held off Andale/Garden Plain in the Sub-state championship game on Tuesday night in Chapman and are headed to the 4A State Tournament in Salina next week. 

It will be their first appearance in the state tournament since 2016.

4A Regional Semifinal: Chapman 6, Concordia 2

Chapman scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first inning to jump ahead 1-0 over Concordia. The Lady Panthers responded in the top of the second with two runs and led 2-1 over the Irish.

The game then became a pitcher’s duel with Madalynn Harold in the circle for Chapman and Jaylin Roush in the circle for Concordia.

The Lady Irish left the bases loaded to end the fourth, and Concordia still led by one run. In the bottom of the fifth, Chapman delivered. 

The Lady Irish scored five runs and took a 6-2 lead. Chapman held on to win and advanced to play Andale/Garden Plain in the 4A West #2 Regional championship.

4A Regional Championship: Chapman 5, Andale/Garden Plain 3

Similar to the semifinal game, the Lady Irish started the scoring with one run in the bottom of the first.

Pitchers for both teams settled in, with Madalynn Harold back in the circle for Chapman and Jayna Lies in the circle for Andale/Garden Plain.

Chapman added two runs in the third, to lead 3-0 after three. In the fourth, Andale/Garden Plain left the bases loaded, as Harold struck out Elsie Johnson to end the inning. The Lady Irish scored two runs in the fifth to lead 5-0.

Andale/Garden Plain was not done yet, as a couple of pinch hitters came up clutch for the Indians in the top of the sixth. Quickly, it was a two-run game with Chapman leading 5-3. 

The Indians left runners stranded at second and third to end the inning.

In the seventh inning, Madalynn Harold shut the Indians down in order, and Chapman held on to win 5-3.

Chapman scored five runs on nine hits. In the circle, Harold pitched all seven innings and recorded 12 strikeouts in the sub-state championship game.

On the day, Harold pitched 13 of the 14 innings and recorded a total of&nbsp;23 strikeouts.

Chapman advances to the 4A State Tournament next week in Salina. It&nbsp;is the Irish first trip to the State Tournament since 2016 when they placed third.

BY ANTHONY GORGES Salina Post Contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747840601987.jpeg" alt="The Lady Irish celebrate after holding off Andale in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Chapman High School." />
 <figcaption>The Lady Irish celebrate after holding off Andale in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Chapman High School.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chapman Lady Irish held off Andale/Garden Plain in the Sub-state championship game on Tuesday night in Chapman and are headed to the 4A State Tournament in Salina next week. It will be their first appearance in the state tournament since 2016.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>4A Regional Semifinal: Chapman 6, Concordia 2Chapman scored the first run of the game in the bottom of the first inning to jump ahead 1-0 over Concordia. The Lady Panthers responded in the top of the second with two runs and led 2-1 over the Irish. The game then became a pitcher’s duel with Madalynn Harold in the circle for Chapman and Jaylin Roush in the circle for Concordia.The Lady Irish left the bases loaded to end the fourth, and Concordia still led by one run. In the bottom of the fifth, Chapman delivered. The Lady Irish scored five runs and took a 6-2 lead. Chapman held on to win and advanced to play Andale/Garden Plain in the 4A West #2 Regional championship.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747840930803.jpeg" alt="Madalynn Harold delivers a pitch home in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Bryan Dennit" />
 <figcaption>Madalynn Harold delivers a pitch home in the regional final. Photo courtesy of Bryan Dennit</figcaption>
 </figure>4A Regional Championship: Chapman 5, Andale/Garden Plain 3Similar to the semifinal game, the Lady Irish started the scoring with one run in the bottom of the first. Pitchers for both teams settled in, with Madalynn Harold back in the circle for Chapman and Jayna Lies in the circle for Andale/Garden Plain.Chapman added two runs in the third, to lead 3-0 after three. In the fourth, Andale/Garden Plain left the bases loaded, as Harold struck out Elsie Johnson to end the inning. The Lady Irish scored two runs in the fifth to lead 5-0.Andale/Garden Plain was not done yet, as a couple of pinch hitters came up clutch for the Indians in the top of the sixth. Quickly, it was a two-run game with Chapman leading 5-3. The Indians left runners stranded at second and third to end the inning.In the seventh inning, Madalynn Harold shut the Indians down in order, and Chapman held on to win 5-3.Chapman scored five runs on nine hits. In the circle, Harold pitched all seven innings and recorded 12 strikeouts in the sub-state championship game.On the day, Harold pitched 13 of the 14 innings and recorded a total of&nbsp;23 strikeouts.Chapman advances to the 4A State Tournament next week in Salina. It&nbsp;is the Irish first trip to the State Tournament since 2016 when they placed third.

🥎 Lady Irish clinch 4A tournament berth for first time since 2016

On Tuesday, the Abilene baseball team did it again.

Despite being on the road and underdogs in not one, but two regional games, the Cowboys came from seemingly out of nowhere to punch their ticket back to the 4A state tournament in Salina next week.

Abilene defeated Concordia 7-3 before stunning the hosts in Pratt by a final score of 4-2.

4A regional quarterifinal: Abilene 7, Concordia 3

First up was a Concordia team that swept the Cowboys earlier this season, but Abilene would have its revenge, rallying to put the game away late.

In the bottom of the third, Concordia doubled to take a 3-1 lead, but the Cowboys quickly overturned their advantage in the top of the fourth when Thomas Keener drove in two runs with a bases-clearing RBI single.

That lead would be the only one the Panthers would ever hold as in the top of the sixth, Abilene added three more, including two on a hard-hit Jake Bartley single.

On the hill, Thomas Keener went the distance, ensuring Concordia never sniffed another run. Keener finished the day surrendering just three runs and one walk, striking out two.

4A regional semifinal: Abilene 4, Pratt 2

At 22-4, Pratt looked like a buzzsaw coming into their own home regional, but Jake Bartley and the Abilene defense quieted the green giant, putting the Greenbacks’ hopes of another state title run to rest.

The Cowboys struck first in this game when Heath Hoekman drove in Thomas Keener on an RBI single in the top of the first.

Pratt would respond with two runs of their own in the bottom of the frame, and for a while both offenses struggled to score, but in the top of the sixth, Thomas Keener bolted home on a passed ball to re-deliver a 2-1 lead to Abilene.

The Cowboys added two more runs in the top of the seventh thanks to a sac bunt and a Levi Evans RBI single, and once again, the pitching was ready to slam the door shut.

This time, it was Jake Bartley’s time to go the distance, allowing just two runs and two walks in a complete game effort where he struck out four and surrendered just six hits.

The Cowboys will head to Salina for the 4A state tournament, joining McPherson, Mulvane, Clay Center, Paola and Rock Creek, who all punched their tickets today with two wins of their own. 

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostOn Tuesday, the Abilene baseball team did it again.Despite being on the road and underdogs in not one, but two regional games, the Cowboys came from seemingly out of nowhere to punch their ticket back to the 4A state tournament in Salina next week.Abilene defeated Concordia 7-3 before stunning the hosts in Pratt by a final score of 4-2.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>4A regional quarterifinal: Abilene 7, Concordia 3First up was a Concordia team that swept the Cowboys earlier this season, but Abilene would have its revenge, rallying to put the game away late.In the bottom of the third, Concordia doubled to take a 3-1 lead, but the Cowboys quickly overturned their advantage in the top of the fourth when Thomas Keener drove in two runs with a bases-clearing RBI single.That lead would be the only one the Panthers would ever hold as in the top of the sixth, Abilene added three more, including two on a hard-hit Jake Bartley single.On the hill, Thomas Keener went the distance, ensuring Concordia never sniffed another run. Keener finished the day surrendering just three runs and one walk, striking out two.4A regional semifinal: Abilene 4, Pratt 2At 22-4, Pratt looked like a buzzsaw coming into their own home regional, but Jake Bartley and the Abilene defense quieted the green giant, putting the Greenbacks’ hopes of another state title run to rest.The Cowboys struck first in this game when Heath Hoekman drove in Thomas Keener on an RBI single in the top of the first.Pratt would respond with two runs of their own in the bottom of the frame, and for a while both offenses struggled to score, but in the top of the sixth, Thomas Keener bolted home on a passed ball to re-deliver a 2-1 lead to Abilene.The Cowboys added two more runs in the top of the seventh thanks to a sac bunt and a Levi Evans RBI single, and once again, the pitching was ready to slam the door shut.This time, it was Jake Bartley’s time to go the distance, allowing just two runs and two walks in a complete game effort where he struck out four and surrendered just six hits.The Cowboys will head to Salina for the 4A state tournament, joining McPherson, Mulvane, Clay Center, Paola and Rock Creek, who all punched their tickets today with two wins of their own.

⚾️ Abilene pulls off two upsets to win regional, return to 4A state tournament

The Southeast of Saline softball postseason began right where the regular season ended, with a pair of victories over Herington and Council Grove to advance the Lady Trojans to the regional championship game.

SES will face Silver Lake in Osage City on Thursday at 5:00 for a ticket to this year’s 3A state tournament.

3A regional quarterifinal: SE of Saline 16, Herington 0

The opening round of this year’s regional bracket was pure domination for the Lady Trojans, who scored eight runs in the first and second, never needing to bat in the third inning to clear the first hurdle.

The top of the Southeast’s lineup raked in this game, as Reese Heinrich, Kyiah Samuelson and Abby Wyatt combined to hit 6-7 with 9 RBI on the day.

In the circle, Carlee Dye dominated, striking out five and issuing zero walks as part of a one-hit shutout.

3A regional semifinal: SE of Saline 5, Council Grove 2

Game two of Tuesday’s doubleheader was far from as straightforward as Council Grove put up a good fight in a low-scoring affair.

Neither team put a single run on the board until the bottom of the fifth, when the Lady Trojans finally scratched across a pair of runs.

Southeast followed that up with two more in the sixth, and by the time Council Grove got on the board, it was too late as SES survived and advanced 5-2.

This time around, Reese Heinrich and Emma Zurfluh were the only Lady Trojans with an RBI, as SES capitalized on five different Council Grove errors in the field.

In the circle, Karlee Zurfluh shut down the Lady Braves, racking up 13 strikeouts and allowing just two unearned runs on four hits in a complete game effort that saw her issue zero walks.

The Lady Trojans will travel to Osage City this Thursday to battle Silver Lake, who defeated St. Mary’s 11-0 and Riley County 11-0, at 5:00.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostThe Southeast of Saline softball postseason began right where the regular season ended, with a pair of victories over Herington and Council Grove to advance the Lady Trojans to the regional championship game.SES will face Silver Lake in Osage City on Thursday at 5:00 for a ticket to this year’s 3A state tournament.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>3A regional quarterifinal: SE of Saline 16, Herington 0The opening round of this year’s regional bracket was pure domination for the Lady Trojans, who scored eight runs in the first and second, never needing to bat in the third inning to clear the first hurdle.The top of the Southeast’s lineup raked in this game, as Reese Heinrich, Kyiah Samuelson and Abby Wyatt combined to hit 6-7 with 9 RBI on the day.In the circle, Carlee Dye dominated, striking out five and issuing zero walks as part of a one-hit shutout.3A regional semifinal: SE of Saline 5, Council Grove 2Game two of Tuesday’s doubleheader was far from as straightforward as Council Grove put up a good fight in a low-scoring affair.Neither team put a single run on the board until the bottom of the fifth, when the Lady Trojans finally scratched across a pair of runs.Southeast followed that up with two more in the sixth, and by the time Council Grove got on the board, it was too late as SES survived and advanced 5-2.This time around, Reese Heinrich and Emma Zurfluh were the only Lady Trojans with an RBI, as SES capitalized on five different Council Grove errors in the field.In the circle, Karlee Zurfluh shut down the Lady Braves, racking up 13 strikeouts and allowing just two unearned runs on four hits in a complete game effort that saw her issue zero walks.The Lady Trojans will travel to Osage City this Thursday to battle Silver Lake, who defeated St. Mary’s 11-0 and Riley County 11-0, at 5:00.

🥎 SES advances to regional final with pair of Tuesday wins

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hayden Birdsong threw five sharp innings in his first start of the season and the San Francisco Giants beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Birdsong (2-0) was moved from the bullpen to the rotation in place of Jordan Hicks and provided just what manager Bob Melvin hoped he would deliver when he made the move.

Birdsong allowed one unearned run, five hits and no walks to give the Giants their fourth win in the last five games.

Ryan Walker pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 11 chances.

Willy Adames hit an RBI triple in the fourth inning against Michael Lorenzen (3-5) and scored on a single by Casey Schmitt to give San Francisco a 2-1 lead.

Lorenzen allowed three runs — two earned — and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings in his shortest start of the season for Kansas City.

Kyle Isbel hit a sacrifice fly in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring infield single in the eighth for the Royals, who have been held to four runs or fewer in 42 of 50 games.

The Giants added an insurance run in the fifth after Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino threw wildly to second when he tried to get a force on a grounder by Wilmer Flores. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single to make it 3-1.

San Francisco improved to 25-9 this season against right-handed starters.

RHP Logan Webb (5-3, 2.42 ERA) pitches the series finale for the Giants. Webb is 3-0 with a 0.64 ERA in four starts at home. The Royals are undecided on their starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747822320850.jpeg" alt="San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee hits an RBI single during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)" />
 <figcaption>San Francisco Giants' Jung Hoo Lee hits an RBI single during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Hayden Birdsong threw five sharp innings in his first start of the season and the San Francisco Giants beat the Kansas City Royals 3-2 on Tuesday night.Birdsong (2-0) was moved from the bullpen to the rotation in place of Jordan Hicks and provided just what manager Bob Melvin hoped he would deliver when he made the move.Birdsong allowed one unearned run, five hits and no walks to give the Giants their fourth win in the last five games.Ryan Walker pitched the ninth for his ninth save in 11 chances.Willy Adames hit an RBI triple in the fourth inning against Michael Lorenzen (3-5) and scored on a single by Casey Schmitt to give San Francisco a 2-1 lead.Lorenzen allowed three runs — two earned — and seven hits in 4 2/3 innings in his shortest start of the season for Kansas City.Kyle Isbel hit a sacrifice fly in the third and Bobby Witt Jr. had a run-scoring infield single in the eighth for the Royals, who have been held to four runs or fewer in 42 of 50 games.<h2>Key moment</h2>The Giants added an insurance run in the fifth after Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino threw wildly to second when he tried to get a force on a grounder by Wilmer Flores. Jung Hoo Lee followed with an RBI single to make it 3-1.<h2>Key stat</h2>San Francisco improved to 25-9 this season against right-handed starters.<h2>Up next</h2>RHP Logan Webb (5-3, 2.42 ERA) pitches the series finale for the Giants. Webb is 3-0 with a 0.64 ERA in four starts at home. The Royals are undecided on their starter.

⚾️ Birdsong pitches the Giants past the Royals in his 1st start of the season

For the first time in over two decades, the Salina Central Lady Mustangs are headed to the 5A state tournament, following a pair of huge wins at the Salina South regional on Tuesday.

A Central win over Emporia and a South victory over Newton led to a bonus Salina Showdown for a regional title that would go emphatically to the Lady Mustangs by a final score of 15-8.

5A regional semifinal: Salina Central 8, Emporia 0

The opener of this three-game set saw Central dominate out of the gate, holding the Lady Spartans to just three hits while allowing just seven total baserunners.

A pitcher's duel appeared to be in order after two scoreless innings, but in the third, Val VanZant and Ellie Riekhof each drove in a run to get Central on the board.

The Lady Mustangs scored three runs in the third, two in the fourth, and three more in the sixth, pulling away and advancing to the second round.

Riekhof, VanZant, and Charlotte Gordon led the charge at the plate, combining to go 10-12 with two triples, five doubles, and six runs scored.

In the circle, Sophia Johnson dominated, striking out eight while walking just three and allowing just two hits in a complete-game shutout.

5A regional semifinal: Salina South 16, Newton 1

In the second game of this year’s regional, it was the host’s time to show off, and the Lady Cougars delivered in a dominant mercy-rule victory.

South scored a pair of runs in the first, three in the third, and eleven in the fourth to win by 15 in walk-off fashion.

All nine members of the Salina South lineup reached base and came in to score at least one run, with Macy Yost driving in the game-winning runs on a bases-clearing 3 RBI triple.

In the circle, Paityn Fritz shut down the Lady Railer bats, allowing just one run on one hit and recording four strikeouts.

5A regional final: Salina Central 15, Salina South 8

At last, it was time for the main event, a highly anticipated rivalry matchup with a ticket to the 5A state tournament on the line.

Central may have been the underdogs without the history on their side, but the Lady Mustangs came out swinging, taking the lead on a three-run Ellie Riekhof blast.

That home run doubled Central’s season total, and in the second inning, they’d add another when Val VanZant took a high riseball onto the street beyond the left field wall.

The two teams would trade punches back and forth with South cutting the lead down to four in the fifth, but three runs in the sixth and seventh allowed Central to hold on and punch a ticket to the 5A state tournament for the first time in over 20 years.

This was a true team effort at the plate as all nine spots in the order reached base three times, with eight different Lady Mustangs crossing the plate for at least one run.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostFor the first time in over two decades, the Salina Central Lady Mustangs are headed to the 5A state tournament, following a pair of huge wins at the Salina South regional on Tuesday.A Central win over Emporia and a South victory over Newton led to a bonus Salina Showdown for a regional title that would go emphatically to the Lady Mustangs by a final score of 15-8.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746812152965.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>5A regional semifinal: Salina Central 8, Emporia 0The opener of this three-game set saw Central dominate out of the gate, holding the Lady Spartans to just three hits while allowing just seven total baserunners.A pitcher's duel appeared to be in order after two scoreless innings, but in the third, Val VanZant and Ellie Riekhof each drove in a run to get Central on the board.The Lady Mustangs scored three runs in the third, two in the fourth, and three more in the sixth, pulling away and advancing to the second round.Riekhof, VanZant, and Charlotte Gordon led the charge at the plate, combining to go 10-12 with two triples, five doubles, and six runs scored.In the circle, Sophia Johnson dominated, striking out eight while walking just three and allowing just two hits in a complete-game shutout.5A regional semifinal: Salina South 16, Newton 1In the second game of this year’s regional, it was the host’s time to show off, and the Lady Cougars delivered in a dominant mercy-rule victory.South scored a pair of runs in the first, three in the third, and eleven in the fourth to win by 15 in walk-off fashion.All nine members of the Salina South lineup reached base and came in to score at least one run, with Macy Yost driving in the game-winning runs on a bases-clearing 3 RBI triple.In the circle, Paityn Fritz shut down the Lady Railer bats, allowing just one run on one hit and recording four strikeouts.5A regional final: Salina Central 15, Salina South 8At last, it was time for the main event, a highly anticipated rivalry matchup with a ticket to the 5A state tournament on the line.Central may have been the underdogs without the history on their side, but the Lady Mustangs came out swinging, taking the lead on a three-run Ellie Riekhof blast.That home run doubled Central’s season total, and in the second inning, they’d add another when Val VanZant took a high riseball onto the street beyond the left field wall.The two teams would trade punches back and forth with South cutting the lead down to four in the fifth, but three runs in the sixth and seventh allowed Central to hold on and punch a ticket to the 5A state tournament for the first time in over 20 years.This was a true team effort at the plate as all nine spots in the order reached base three times, with eight different Lady Mustangs crossing the plate for at least one run.In the circle, VanZant would collect the win, and freshman Paxtyn Ekberg slammed the door shut, the two combining to allow just eight hits in a high-scoring affair.The Lady Mustangs will join Maize South, Topeka-Seaman, Pittsburg, and three other winners to be determined on Wednesday on the campus of Wichita State University to battle for a state title next week.