On Monday, the Kansas City Chiefs officially made Harrison Butker, the highest paid placekicker in the league, signing him to a four-year $25.6 million dollar contract.

This new deal makes the 29-year-old Butker the highest paid kicker on an annual basis, surpassing Justin Tucker and Jake Elliot.

Since joining the Chiefs in 2017, Butker has helped Kansas City hoist three Lombardi trophies, doubling as the team's kickoff specialist in addition to field goals and PATs.

Butker has spent his entire career as a Chief and has been on the mark since day one, knocking through 89% of his field goals and 95% of his PATs, converting 33-35 FG attempts and all 38 of his PATs in 2023.

The Chiefs open regular season play on September 4th when they take on a fellow AFC contender in the Baltimore Ravens.

BY SALINA POSTOn Monday, the Kansas City Chiefs officially made Harrison Butker, the highest paid placekicker in the league, signing him to a four-year $25.6 million dollar contract.This new deal makes the 29-year-old Butker the highest paid kicker on an annual basis, surpassing Justin Tucker and Jake Elliot.Since joining the Chiefs in 2017, Butker has helped Kansas City hoist three Lombardi trophies, doubling as the team's kickoff specialist in addition to field goals and PATs.Butker has spent his entire career as a Chief and has been on the mark since day one, knocking through 89% of his field goals and 95% of his PATs, converting 33-35 FG attempts and all 38 of his PATs in 2023.The Chiefs open regular season play on September 4th when they take on a fellow AFC contender in the Baltimore Ravens.

Chiefs ink Butker to record-setting deal

­LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels is one of 50 players named to the watch list for the 2024 Walter Camp Football Foundation’s Player of the Year Award, which is given annually to the college football player of the year.

The Walter Camp Player of the Year Award is the nation’s fourth-oldest individual college football accolade and is voted on by the 133 NCAA Bowl Subdivision head coaches and sports information directors. Walter Camp, “The Father of American football,” first selected an All-America team in 1889. A former Yale University athlete and football coach, Camp is credited with developing play from scrimmage, set plays, the numerical assessment of goals and tries and the restriction of play to eleven men per side. The Walter Camp Football Foundation – a New Haven-based all-volunteer group – was founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideals of Camp and to continue the tradition of selecting annually an All-America team.

This is the second preseason watch list for Daniels, who was previously honored by the Maxwell Award, and it is his second consecutive year being named to the Walter Camp Award watch list. Daniels was previously honored by the Walter Camp Award in 2022, when he was named the Walter Camp National FBS Offensive Player of the Week following his performance in a 48-30 victory at Houston.

Daniels is back for the 2024 season at Kansas after throwing for 705 yards and five touchdowns in three games in 2023. In 2022, Daniels was a breakthrough player as he led the Jayhawks to a 5-0 start and the program's first bowl game appearance since 2008. He was an All-Big 12 Second Team selection after completing 66.1 percent (152-of-230) of his passes for 2,014 yards and 18 touchdowns. Daniels capped off his sophomore season with a record-setting performance in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, when he completed 37-of-55 passes for 544 yards and five touchdowns, while also rushing for a touchdown.

From Lawndale, California, Daniels enters the season ranked No. 9 in school history with 4,297 passing yards and No. 5 with 31 passing touchdowns. At his current career completion rate of 63.6 percent (365-of-574), Daniels would surpass the previous school record of 63.3 percent, set by Todd Reesing from 2006-09.

Daniels is one of 20 quarterbacks on the watch list and one of 41 offensive players in total. The 2024 Player of Year watch list will be narrowed to 10 semi-finalists in early November and three finalists will be announced on November 26. The 2024 Walter Camp Player of the Year recipient will be announced on ESPN’s College Football Awards Show on December 12. Appearing on the preseason Watch List is not a requirement for a player to win

the Walter Camp award or be named to the All-America team.

2024 Kansas Football Preseason Watch Lists:

Maxwell Award – QB Jalon Daniels, RB Devin Neal

Patrick Mannelly Award – LS Luke Hosford

Bronko Nagurski Award – CB Cobee Bryant

Paycom Jim Thorpe Award – CB Cobee Bryant

Allstate Wuerffel Trophy – TE Jared Casey

­LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels is one of 50 players named to the watch list for the 2024 Walter Camp Football Foundation’s Player of the Year Award, which is given annually to the college football player of the year.The Walter Camp Player of the Year Award is the nation’s fourth-oldest individual college football accolade and is voted on by the 133 NCAA Bowl Subdivision head coaches and sports information directors. Walter Camp, “The Father of American football,” first selected an All-America team in 1889. A former Yale University athlete and football coach, Camp is credited with developing play from scrimmage, set plays, the numerical assessment of goals and tries and the restriction of play to eleven men per side. The Walter Camp Football Foundation – a New Haven-based all-volunteer group – was founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideals of Camp and to continue the tradition of selecting annually an All-America team.This is the second preseason watch list for Daniels, who was previously honored by the Maxwell Award, and it is his second consecutive year being named to the Walter Camp Award watch list. Daniels was previously honored by the Walter Camp Award in 2022, when he was named the Walter Camp National FBS Offensive Player of the Week following his performance in a 48-30 victory at Houston.Daniels is back for the 2024 season at Kansas after throwing for 705 yards and five touchdowns in three games in 2023. In 2022, Daniels was a breakthrough player as he led the Jayhawks to a 5-0 start and the program's first bowl game appearance since 2008. He was an All-Big 12 Second Team selection after completing 66.1 percent (152-of-230) of his passes for 2,014 yards and 18 touchdowns. Daniels capped off his sophomore season with a record-setting performance in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, when he completed 37-of-55 passes for 544 yards and five touchdowns, while also rushing for a touchdown.From Lawndale, California, Daniels enters the season ranked No. 9 in school history with 4,297 passing yards and No. 5 with 31 passing touchdowns. At his current career completion rate of 63.6 percent (365-of-574), Daniels would surpass the previous school record of 63.3 percent, set by Todd Reesing from 2006-09.Daniels is one of 20 quarterbacks on the watch list and one of 41 offensive players in total. The 2024 Player of Year watch list will be narrowed to 10 semi-finalists in early November and three finalists will be announced on November 26. The 2024 Walter Camp Player of the Year recipient will be announced on ESPN’s College Football Awards Show on December 12. Appearing on the preseason Watch List is not a requirement for a player to winthe Walter Camp award or be named to the All-America team.2024 Kansas Football Preseason Watch Lists:Maxwell Award – QB Jalon Daniels, RB Devin NealPatrick Mannelly Award – LS Luke HosfordBronko Nagurski Award – CB Cobee BryantPaycom Jim Thorpe Award – CB Cobee BryantAllstate Wuerffel Trophy – TE Jared CaseyWalter Camp Award – QB Jalon Daniels

Jalon Daniels Selected to Walter Camp Preseason Watch List

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks are ranked No. 24 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, the organization announced on Monday, Kansas’ first appearance in the preseason Coaches Poll since 2008.

The Coaches Poll appearances comes after a 9-4 season in 2023, which culminated in a 49-36 victory over UNLV in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Dec. 26, 2023. The bowl victory was Kansas’ first since 2008 and Kansas’ first nine-win season since 2007.

Under Leipold, the Jayhawks are no strangers to being ranked in the Coaches Poll, which slotted Kansas as No. 23 to finish the 2023 season. Kansas made four separate appearances in the poll during the 2023 season, appearing as high as No. 23 on Oct. 29, 2023.

The preseason ranking marks Kansas’ third in the Coaches Poll all-time, after ranking No. 13 on July 28, 2008, and No. 24 on Aug. 9, 1996.

Kansas was recently picked fourth in the Big 12 Preseason Poll on July 2, which was Kansas’ highest preseason ranking since the Big 12 went to a non-divisional format in 2011. The Jayhawks have been recognized on numerous preseason watch lists, including Jalon Daniels (Walter Camp, Maxwell), Devin Neal (Maxwell), Luke Hosford (Mannelly), Cobee Bryant (Nagurski, Thorpe) and Jared Casey (Wuerffel).&nbsp;

LAWRENCE, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Jayhawks are ranked No. 24 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, the organization announced on Monday, Kansas’ first appearance in the preseason Coaches Poll since 2008.The Coaches Poll appearances comes after a 9-4 season in 2023, which culminated in a 49-36 victory over UNLV in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl on Dec. 26, 2023. The bowl victory was Kansas’ first since 2008 and Kansas’ first nine-win season since 2007.Under Leipold, the Jayhawks are no strangers to being ranked in the Coaches Poll, which slotted Kansas as No. 23 to finish the 2023 season. Kansas made four separate appearances in the poll during the 2023 season, appearing as high as No. 23 on Oct. 29, 2023.The preseason ranking marks Kansas’ third in the Coaches Poll all-time, after ranking No. 13 on July 28, 2008, and No. 24 on Aug. 9, 1996.Kansas was recently picked fourth in the Big 12 Preseason Poll on July 2, which was Kansas’ highest preseason ranking since the Big 12 went to a non-divisional format in 2011. The Jayhawks have been recognized on numerous preseason watch lists, including Jalon Daniels (Walter Camp, Maxwell), Devin Neal (Maxwell), Luke Hosford (Mannelly), Cobee Bryant (Nagurski, Thorpe) and Jared Casey (Wuerffel).&nbsp;

Kansas Ranked No. 24 in Preseason US LBM Coaches Poll

BY GARY VAN CLEAVE SALINA POST CONTRIBUTOR

In just a few weeks, fall practice begins for the Salina South Cougars, and an old baseball metaphor of Hope Springs Eternal is a battle cry for programs like the Cougars mired in a frustrating losing streak.

“The feeling sucks, but at the same time I need to hear it because I know how much this means to Salina South,” senior quarterback Landon Putman said.

The Cougars have lost 24 straight games dating back to 2021. However, Putman and his teammates have shown up en masse this summer to trust the process.

“Things are going good and we are starting to wrap up summer workouts,” Putman said. “I can’t wait to be on the field with my brothers.”

Putman completed 69-of-154 passes for 965 yards and three touchdowns in just six games last year.

An injury to his throwing hand, sustained during a week two matchup with Derby, is now 100% as the Cougars prepare for their season opener in a few weeks.

“Missing a third of the season was tough, but it helped me understand the game more and teach some of my teammates new things,” Putman said.

Putman's drive and work ethic have been apparent to his teammates since day one, and alongside new leadership, has inspired confidence in the Cougar locker room.

“He’s got a lot of weight on his shoulders to perform going into his senior season," junior Landon Huffman said. "With our new head and assistant coaches, South High School is on the rise.”

“Landon has stepped up in his leadership role and is more athletic than ever,” senior running back Aidan Anderes said. "He really sees the field and makes the right calls when it comes to throwing and running. He's become a great quarterback and continues to get better.”

It’s been a productive summer for Putman and his Cougars as they attempt to end the team’s losing woes that dates back to September 17, 2021.

“Everyone in the building is tired of losing,"&nbsp;junior linebacker Bronx Sitton said. "Coach O has lit a fire in players I have never seen before. The intensity alone in preseason practices and the weight room is unmatched.”

“My progression has been going pretty well for me this summer," Putman said. "Learning new things can be tough, but it’s about the process and helping my teammates along the way. I've spent most of my time on footwork this summer, and looking through my progressions.”

That work has also been noticed by the new skipper of the South ship.

“His confidence has grown, you can tell he is mentally, physically, emotionally ready to lead us and compete at a high level,” first-year coach Christien Ozores said. “IQ wise, he's gradually gotten better throughout the summer,” Ozores continued. “You could tell he was hesitant on some throws and progression, but he looks comfortable now. He's spent a lot of time watching film and working with the guys up to this point.”

“Over the time that I have played with Landon, he has progressed not only at quarterback, but as a leader,” sophomore running back Armane Redmond said. “He has a great arm, and it has gotten better over time. He has great knowledge of the pocket while also being able to scramble and turn a broken play into a touchdown. With his senior season approaching, I can see him having a breakout year.”

Senior guard Erik Franco said Putman has taken on the role of being the team's leader.

“He’s making sure everyone is showing up for workouts and doing what they’re supposed to do,” Franco said. “As well as communicating with everyone on the team and coaches. His arm strength and overall strength have definitely improved and they continue to improve as the summer continues.”

Putman is holding players accountable as well.

“Landon has always been a great leader," junior receiver Gabe Autry said. "He knew how to get the team hyped and ready, but last year there were some problems with teamwork and team effort; over the last couple weeks, he has really motivated the team."

Despite the intense workload both under center and leading the huddle, Putman isn't letting the pressure get to him ahead of a pivotal season.

“My head mentally is the best it has been at starting QB,” Putman said. “I’ve got a lot on my plate, but it’s nothing I can’t handle.”

He doesn’t hear it much, but when people doubt him Putman gets energized.

“People counting me out only makes me better,” Putman said. “I just wanna prove to people that we are a team you can’t take lightly.”

Above all else, Putman's mentality of hard work and dedication is one he's tried to pass along to his teammates since day one.

“Landon leads by example, he doesn’t make excuses,” Sitton said. “He’s always getting at it in the weight room and will get on anyone for wasting time, and he’s the first one to practice and the last one to leave.”

“I have tried to instill that you can’t start working in the season. It needs to start in the summer or even before that. I also want us to hold each other accountable,” Putman said. “A turnaround would mean a lot to me and there is nothing that I want more than that,” he concluded.

The Cougars will take the field for their first game of the season on September 6 when they take on the cross-town rival Mustangs at 7:00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722867946634.png" alt="Quarterback Landon Putnam drops back for a pass during the 2023 season. Photo courtesy of Gary Van Cleave" />
 <figcaption>Quarterback Landon Putnam drops back for a pass during the 2023 season. Photo courtesy of Gary Van Cleave</figcaption>
 </figure>BY GARY VAN CLEAVE SALINA POST CONTRIBUTORIn just a few weeks, fall practice begins for the Salina South Cougars, and an old baseball metaphor of Hope Springs Eternal is a battle cry for programs like the Cougars mired in a frustrating losing streak.“The feeling sucks, but at the same time I need to hear it because I know how much this means to Salina South,” senior quarterback Landon Putman said.The Cougars have lost 24 straight games dating back to 2021. However, Putman and his teammates have shown up en masse this summer to trust the process.“Things are going good and we are starting to wrap up summer workouts,” Putman said. “I can’t wait to be on the field with my brothers.”Putman completed 69-of-154 passes for 965 yards and three touchdowns in just six games last year.An injury to his throwing hand, sustained during a week two matchup with Derby, is now 100% as the Cougars prepare for their season opener in a few weeks.“Missing a third of the season was tough, but it helped me understand the game more and teach some of my teammates new things,” Putman said.Putman's drive and work ethic have been apparent to his teammates since day one, and alongside new leadership, has inspired confidence in the Cougar locker room.“He’s got a lot of weight on his shoulders to perform going into his senior season," junior Landon Huffman said. "With our new head and assistant coaches, South High School is on the rise.”“Landon has stepped up in his leadership role and is more athletic than ever,” senior running back Aidan Anderes said. "He really sees the field and makes the right calls when it comes to throwing and running. He's become a great quarterback and continues to get better.”It’s been a productive summer for Putman and his Cougars as they attempt to end the team’s losing woes that dates back to September 17, 2021.“Everyone in the building is tired of losing,"&nbsp;junior linebacker Bronx Sitton said. "Coach O has lit a fire in players I have never seen before. The intensity alone in preseason practices and the weight room is unmatched.”“My progression has been going pretty well for me this summer," Putman said. "Learning new things can be tough, but it’s about the process and helping my teammates along the way. I've spent most of my time on footwork this summer, and looking through my progressions.”That work has also been noticed by the new skipper of the South ship.“His confidence has grown, you can tell he is mentally, physically, emotionally ready to lead us and compete at a high level,” first-year coach Christien Ozores said. “IQ wise, he's gradually gotten better throughout the summer,” Ozores continued. “You could tell he was hesitant on some throws and progression, but he looks comfortable now. He's spent a lot of time watching film and working with the guys up to this point.”“Over the time that I have played with Landon, he has progressed not only at quarterback, but as a leader,” sophomore running back Armane Redmond said. “He has a great arm, and it has gotten better over time. He has great knowledge of the pocket while also being able to scramble and turn a broken play into a touchdown. With his senior season approaching, I can see him having a breakout year.”Senior guard Erik Franco said Putman has taken on the role of being the team's leader.“He’s making sure everyone is showing up for workouts and doing what they’re supposed to do,” Franco said. “As well as communicating with everyone on the team and coaches. His arm strength and overall strength have definitely improved and they continue to improve as the summer continues.”Putman is holding players accountable as well.“Landon has always been a great leader," junior receiver Gabe Autry said. "He knew how to get the team hyped and ready, but last year there were some problems with teamwork and team effort; over the last couple weeks, he has really motivated the team."Despite the intense workload both under center and leading the huddle, Putman isn't letting the pressure get to him ahead of a pivotal season.“My head mentally is the best it has been at starting QB,” Putman said. “I’ve got a lot on my plate, but it’s nothing I can’t handle.”He doesn’t hear it much, but when people doubt him Putman gets energized.“People counting me out only makes me better,” Putman said. “I just wanna prove to people that we are a team you can’t take lightly.”Above all else, Putman's mentality of hard work and dedication is one he's tried to pass along to his teammates since day one.“Landon leads by example, he doesn’t make excuses,” Sitton said. “He’s always getting at it in the weight room and will get on anyone for wasting time, and he’s the first one to practice and the last one to leave.”“I have tried to instill that you can’t start working in the season. It needs to start in the summer or even before that. I also want us to hold each other accountable,” Putman said. “A turnaround would mean a lot to me and there is nothing that I want more than that,” he concluded.The Cougars will take the field for their first game of the season on September 6 when they take on the cross-town rival Mustangs at 7:00.

Putman ready to lead Cougars in 2024

Hello and happy Monday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…

Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;has been named American League Player of the Month for July.

He’s the 12th different Royals player to win AL Player of the Month, and the first since&nbsp;Billy Butler&nbsp;in September 2009. Witt Jr. is the first Royals shortstop to win the honor.

Witt led the Majors last month in hits, runs, total bases, batting average, on-base percentage, and OPS, and led the American League in slugging. His 44 hits in July were 10 more than the next closest players, and were the most by a Royal in any month since&nbsp;Johnny Damon&nbsp;had 47 hits in August 2000.

Speaking of the Royals, <a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers last night.

Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field. Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.

The Royals currently sit in the ALs final wild card spot just five games out of first place in the AL Central

And finally Sporting Kansas City will continue Leagues Cup play against Mexicos Toluca squad this evening at 8pm to conclude group stage play

That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4lEx9CCwh6I"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY SALINA POST(Transcript)Hello and happy Monday, everybody, it’s Tyler Henry, back with another KINA Sports Update presented by Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine…_________Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;has been named American League Player of the Month for July.He’s the 12th different Royals player to win AL Player of the Month, and the first since&nbsp;Billy Butler&nbsp;in September 2009. Witt Jr. is the first Royals shortstop to win the honor.Witt led the Majors last month in hits, runs, total bases, batting average, on-base percentage, and OPS, and led the American League in slugging. His 44 hits in July were 10 more than the next closest players, and were the most by a Royal in any month since&nbsp;Johnny Damon&nbsp;had 47 hits in August 2000._________Speaking of the Royals, <a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers last night.Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field. Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.The Royals currently sit in the ALs final wild card spot just five games out of first place in the AL Central_________And finally Sporting Kansas City will continue Leagues Cup play against Mexicos Toluca squad this evening at 8pm to conclude group stage play_________That’s your sports update for today, but for even more great area sports content like this, check out Salina Post and stay tuned to KINA.

910 KINA Sports Headlines — August 5

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;has been named American League Player of the Month for July.

He’s the 12th different Royals player (17th instance) to win American League Player of the Month, and the first since&nbsp;Billy Butler&nbsp;in September 2009. Witt Jr. is the first Royals shortstop to win the honor.

Witt Jr. led the Majors last month in hits (44), runs (26), total bases (75), batting average (.489), on-base percentage (.520) and OPS (1.353), and led the American League in slugging (.833). His 44 hits in July were 10 more than the next closest players, and were the most by a Royal in any month since&nbsp;Johnny Damon&nbsp;had 47 hits in August 2000.

Bobby’s .489 batting average in July was the 2nd-highest in any month in franchise history (min. 50 plate appearances), trailing only&nbsp;George Brett, who hit .494 (42-for-85) in July 1980. Witt Jr. is the first Major League player to record at least 44 hits and a .489 batting average in any month since&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;in June 1930.

Witt Jr. recorded a hit in 22 of Kansas City’s 23 games in July, including 13 multi-hit efforts, 8 games with at least 3 hits and a 4-hit game. He recorded 4 consecutive 3-hit games from July 19-22, becoming the first player in Major League history, according to&nbsp;Elias, to do so in a player’s 1st 4 games after the All-Star break. It also matched the 2nd-longest streak in franchise history at any point, trailing only Brett’s run of 6 games with at least 3 hits from May 8-13, 1976.

In a 10-4 win on July 22 vs. Arizona, Witt Jr. doubled, tripled and homered, finishing a single shy of the cycle. Last Monday night in Chicago, Bobby hit his 3rd career grand slam, a go-ahead shot in the 8th inning that propelled Kansas City to an 8-5 win vs. the White Sox.

Witt Jr. was named American League Player of the Week for the period of July 15-21, during which he went 9-for-11 (.818) in the 1st 3 games after the All-Star break. He began that week by finishing as the runner-up in the 2024 Home Run Derby in Arlington, Texas. Bobby hit a derby-high 50 home runs, including 20 homers in the 1st round, then bested&nbsp;José Ramírez, 17-12 to advance to the finals. Witt Jr. hit 13 HR in the final round, and his last batted ball landed at the base of the wall, leaving him 1 shy of matching&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández, who hit 14 HR in the final round to be crowned Home Run Derby champion.

The following night, Witt Jr. made his first All-Star Game appearance, playing the last 4.0 innings at shortstop in the American League’s 5-3 win. He was the fourth Royals shortstop to be selected to the All-Star Game, following&nbsp;Fred Patek&nbsp;(1972, 1976, 1978),&nbsp;Kurt Stillwell&nbsp;(1988) and&nbsp;Alcides Escobar&nbsp;(2015).

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—Major League Baseball announced today that&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.&nbsp;has been named American League Player of the Month for July.He’s the 12th different Royals player (17th instance) to win American League Player of the Month, and the first since&nbsp;Billy Butler&nbsp;in September 2009. Witt Jr. is the first Royals shortstop to win the honor.Witt Jr. led the Majors last month in hits (44), runs (26), total bases (75), batting average (.489), on-base percentage (.520) and OPS (1.353), and led the American League in slugging (.833). His 44 hits in July were 10 more than the next closest players, and were the most by a Royal in any month since&nbsp;Johnny Damon&nbsp;had 47 hits in August 2000.Bobby’s .489 batting average in July was the 2nd-highest in any month in franchise history (min. 50 plate appearances), trailing only&nbsp;George Brett, who hit .494 (42-for-85) in July 1980. Witt Jr. is the first Major League player to record at least 44 hits and a .489 batting average in any month since&nbsp;Lou Gehrig&nbsp;in June 1930.Witt Jr. recorded a hit in 22 of Kansas City’s 23 games in July, including 13 multi-hit efforts, 8 games with at least 3 hits and a 4-hit game. He recorded 4 consecutive 3-hit games from July 19-22, becoming the first player in Major League history, according to&nbsp;Elias, to do so in a player’s 1st 4 games after the All-Star break. It also matched the 2nd-longest streak in franchise history at any point, trailing only Brett’s run of 6 games with at least 3 hits from May 8-13, 1976.In a 10-4 win on July 22 vs. Arizona, Witt Jr. doubled, tripled and homered, finishing a single shy of the cycle. Last Monday night in Chicago, Bobby hit his 3rd career grand slam, a go-ahead shot in the 8th inning that propelled Kansas City to an 8-5 win vs. the White Sox.Witt Jr. was named American League Player of the Week for the period of July 15-21, during which he went 9-for-11 (.818) in the 1st 3 games after the All-Star break. He began that week by finishing as the runner-up in the 2024 Home Run Derby in Arlington, Texas. Bobby hit a derby-high 50 home runs, including 20 homers in the 1st round, then bested&nbsp;José Ramírez, 17-12 to advance to the finals. Witt Jr. hit 13 HR in the final round, and his last batted ball landed at the base of the wall, leaving him 1 shy of matching&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández, who hit 14 HR in the final round to be crowned Home Run Derby champion.The following night, Witt Jr. made his first All-Star Game appearance, playing the last 4.0 innings at shortstop in the American League’s 5-3 win. He was the fourth Royals shortstop to be selected to the All-Star Game, following&nbsp;Fred Patek&nbsp;(1972, 1976, 1978),&nbsp;Kurt Stillwell&nbsp;(1988) and&nbsp;Alcides Escobar&nbsp;(2015).

Bobby Witt Jr. named AL Player of the Month for July

Chiefs Coordinator Quotes August 4, 2024

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q:&nbsp;Did you see anything from the Hall of Fame game that you learned from?

TOUB:&nbsp;“Yeah, I saw some things that I thought we figured out during the OTAs. I thought some of things that they were doing that we had already changed – it was kind of like a stamp that we’re on the right direction, you know, doing things right. We did kick return again today. I thought there was a lot of good things. (We) saw some guys hitting it up in there. One of the things that we’ve learned is that everything happens faster – the blocks. The holes are there, and they’re gone real quick. You have to see it and get up field right away. I’m excited to see this thing live against a team. It’s coming. Saturday, we get to do it against Jacksonville.”

Q:&nbsp;How has Louis Rees-Zammit been on special teams?

TOUB:&nbsp;“For me, he’s been great. He’s doing a good job as a returner. He’s got to continue to get better as a running back. He’s got to learn the stuff. Pass blocking, I think, is a major hurdle that needs to get figured out. That’s a big part of what we do in our offense. That’s where he’s at.”

Q:&nbsp;Is this the kind of environment where you can really get a gauge on what you’ve got from your returners?

TOUB:&nbsp;“I think so. The way we practice – we practice fast.&nbsp; We keep guys off the ground, but we practice fast. We teach using your hands and getting off blocks on the cover teams. The holes are there for a fraction of a second. If we see a guy hitting it, we know that that’s what we’re going to get when we put the pads on. I saw that today. I saw Mecole (Hardman) do it. I saw Nikko (Remigio) do it. Even Louis (Rees-Zammit) did a nice job with it, too.”

Chiefs Player Quotes August 4, 2024

Q: What do you feel like you and Chris Jones bring to the interior on the defensive line?

PENNEL: “To be honest, everybody knows how great Chris (Jones) is, the numbers speak for themselves, the accolades do as well. We put the tape on, me and him in there together, we work well together, we watch film together. My intent is to make us a stout and top run defense. Not only in the playoffs like we did last year, recently but through the entire regular season so (that) by the playoffs it’s not an issue of concern or anything like that.”

Q: What makes Kansas City so attractive that it made you want to come back here?

PENNEL: “I mean it’s the atmosphere. The first year I was here with the guys and the relationships that I built with who won the Super Bowl. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, he demands success out of everyone. There’s no vet days here, so that’s why you see older players here playing at a high level because there are no shortcuts, there are no days off. I think all of that plays into coming back to Kansas City.”

Q: What does going against Joe Thuney, Trey Smith and Creed Humphrey in training camp do for you? What makes that trio so good?

PENNEL: “In my opinion and watching the tape and there’s a lot of times, that is the best interior in football. When I’m going against the best center and the best two guards, I mean it speaks for itself. The competitiveness in one on ones and the run blocking that Trey (Smith) and Creed (Humphrey) offer, that’s unlike any other combo in the league. At practice and at training camp, I’m seeing the hardest run combination to gap schemes and stretching zones from the best interior in football, so it’s a huge advantage. I’m excited to see how that will play out in the regular season.”

Q: How do you perceive the wide receiver room?

MOORE:&nbsp;“Oh we're stacked. We got everything you want in a receiver room I feel like. Yeah, I think we got one of the best receiver rooms in the league.”

Q: How does knowing Patrick Mahomes and what he wants, contribute to your first couple of years in the league and for the future?

MOORE:&nbsp;“I would say that’s like a big factor. Just being on the same page with your quarterback. I remember my rookie year (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid told me, ‘Go get on the same page with your quarterback.’ There is only so much the coaches can do. At the end of the day, you are out there with 15, so just make sure you and him are on the same page and the more you develop that relationship good things will happen.”

Q: What does it take to be successful in an offense like the Chiefs?

MOORE:&nbsp;“Just, you got to be the same person – It's not even just an offense it’s a team. You got to come in the building the same person every day. There can’t be no – you can’t fluctuate with that and like I said I feel like we have so much talent in our receiver room. The goal for us is just to bring our best every single day, and that’s all that’s really needed to get the job done.”

Chiefs Coordinator Quotes August 4, 2024ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUBQ:&nbsp;Did you see anything from the Hall of Fame game that you learned from?TOUB:&nbsp;“Yeah, I saw some things that I thought we figured out during the OTAs. I thought some of things that they were doing that we had already changed – it was kind of like a stamp that we’re on the right direction, you know, doing things right. We did kick return again today. I thought there was a lot of good things. (We) saw some guys hitting it up in there. One of the things that we’ve learned is that everything happens faster – the blocks. The holes are there, and they’re gone real quick. You have to see it and get up field right away. I’m excited to see this thing live against a team. It’s coming. Saturday, we get to do it against Jacksonville.”Q:&nbsp;How has Louis Rees-Zammit been on special teams?TOUB:&nbsp;“For me, he’s been great. He’s doing a good job as a returner. He’s got to continue to get better as a running back. He’s got to learn the stuff. Pass blocking, I think, is a major hurdle that needs to get figured out. That’s a big part of what we do in our offense. That’s where he’s at.”Q:&nbsp;Is this the kind of environment where you can really get a gauge on what you’ve got from your returners?TOUB:&nbsp;“I think so. The way we practice – we practice fast.&nbsp; We keep guys off the ground, but we practice fast. We teach using your hands and getting off blocks on the cover teams. The holes are there for a fraction of a second. If we see a guy hitting it, we know that that’s what we’re going to get when we put the pads on. I saw that today. I saw Mecole (Hardman) do it. I saw Nikko (Remigio) do it. Even Louis (Rees-Zammit) did a nice job with it, too.”Chiefs Player Quotes August 4, 2024NT MIKE PENNELQ: What do you feel like you and Chris Jones bring to the interior on the defensive line?PENNEL: “To be honest, everybody knows how great Chris (Jones) is, the numbers speak for themselves, the accolades do as well. We put the tape on, me and him in there together, we work well together, we watch film together. My intent is to make us a stout and top run defense. Not only in the playoffs like we did last year, recently but through the entire regular season so (that) by the playoffs it’s not an issue of concern or anything like that.”Q: What makes Kansas City so attractive that it made you want to come back here?PENNEL: “I mean it’s the atmosphere. The first year I was here with the guys and the relationships that I built with who won the Super Bowl. (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid, he demands success out of everyone. There’s no vet days here, so that’s why you see older players here playing at a high level because there are no shortcuts, there are no days off. I think all of that plays into coming back to Kansas City.”Q: What does going against Joe Thuney, Trey Smith and Creed Humphrey in training camp do for you? What makes that trio so good?PENNEL: “In my opinion and watching the tape and there’s a lot of times, that is the best interior in football. When I’m going against the best center and the best two guards, I mean it speaks for itself. The competitiveness in one on ones and the run blocking that Trey (Smith) and Creed (Humphrey) offer, that’s unlike any other combo in the league. At practice and at training camp, I’m seeing the hardest run combination to gap schemes and stretching zones from the best interior in football, so it’s a huge advantage. I’m excited to see how that will play out in the regular season.”WR SKYY MOOREQ: How do you perceive the wide receiver room?MOORE:&nbsp;“Oh we're stacked. We got everything you want in a receiver room I feel like. Yeah, I think we got one of the best receiver rooms in the league.”Q: How does knowing Patrick Mahomes and what he wants, contribute to your first couple of years in the league and for the future?MOORE:&nbsp;“I would say that’s like a big factor. Just being on the same page with your quarterback. I remember my rookie year (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid told me, ‘Go get on the same page with your quarterback.’ There is only so much the coaches can do. At the end of the day, you are out there with 15, so just make sure you and him are on the same page and the more you develop that relationship good things will happen.”Q: What does it take to be successful in an offense like the Chiefs?MOORE:&nbsp;“Just, you got to be the same person – It's not even just an offense it’s a team. You got to come in the building the same person every day. There can’t be no – you can’t fluctuate with that and like I said I feel like we have so much talent in our receiver room. The goal for us is just to bring our best every single day, and that’s all that’s really needed to get the job done.”

Chiefs Quotes: 8-4-24

DETROIT (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday.

Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field.

Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.

“I like to be in those situation — it is do or die and that's a lot of fun,” Melendez said. “I'm going to be ready late in games, whether they need me to hit or play defense. I have to stay as locked in as possible, just like I'm in the game.”

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch used lefty Shelby Miller in the ninth, knowing the Royals would be sending up their left-handed hitters.

“I think Shelby had given up eight hits against lefties all year going into that inning,” Hinch said. “They got two, two-strike hits from Renfroe and Fermin, and then a bad splitter to a guy who can hit the ball out of the park.”

Chris Stratton (4-3) got the win with a scoreless eighth. The Royals' Hunter Harvey, who squandered a two-run lead in the ninth inning of a 6-5, 11-inning loss on Saturday, pitched the ninth for his first save.

“We acquired (Harvey) to pitch in high-leverage situations, and that was high leverage,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “There's a reason we gave up good players to get him, so we're not going to run away from one bad outing.”

The Royals have won six of their last seven games.

“We talked a lot about how they got one from us yesterday late, and then we turned around and did that today,” Quatraro said. “That's why you can't get too high or too low, because the same thing will happen to you.”

The Tigers went 2-7 on a nine-game homestand against Minnesota, Cleveland and Kansas City.

The Tigers have two healthy starting pitchers after trading Jack Flaherty, so manager Hinch has relied heavily on his bullpen. On Sunday, he got four scoreless innings from Alex Faedo and Brenan Hanifee before turning the ball over to Brant Hurter for his major league debut.

The Tigers took a 1-0 lead when Zach McKinstry tripled and scored on Gio Urshela's two-out single in the second inning. Matt Vierling made it 2-0 in the fifth, driving in Javier Baez with a sacrifice fly.

Hurter struck out Salvador Perez and Paul DeJong to get out of a jam in the sixth inning, and allowed two hits before leaving after the seventh. Will Vest pitched the eighth, but Miller couldn't finish it.

“Our pitching was awesome,” Hinch said. “Faedo had to battle and Hanifee came in and got the ball on the ground. They stacked the lineup expecting to see Hurter, and he got us once through the order. After that, we had avenues to get it done, so it is a gut-punch to lose.”

Miller (5-7) worked two-thirds of an inning and took the loss.

Royals: Open a three-game home series against the Red Sox on Monday. RHP Brady Singer (8-6, 2.88) is scheduled to start against Boston LHP James Paxton (8-3, 4.52).

Tigers: After an off day Monday, take on the Mariners for three games in Seattle. Detroit's RHP Keider Montero (1-5, 6.18) is scheduled to start Tuesday. Seattle has not named a starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722821513239.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/i/status/1820189388908933148">MJ Melendez hit a pinch-hit three-run homer</a>&nbsp;in the ninth inning to rally the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Tigers on Sunday.Trailing 2-0 going into the top of the ninth, Hunter Renfroe and Freddy Fermin reached on singles with one out. Adam Frazier nearly hit a pinch-hit homer, but the ball curled foul and he flew out to center field.Melendez then hit a 362-foot blast, his 13th of the season, to give Kansas City the lead.“I like to be in those situation — it is do or die and that's a lot of fun,” Melendez said. “I'm going to be ready late in games, whether they need me to hit or play defense. I have to stay as locked in as possible, just like I'm in the game.”Tigers manager A.J. Hinch used lefty Shelby Miller in the ninth, knowing the Royals would be sending up their left-handed hitters.“I think Shelby had given up eight hits against lefties all year going into that inning,” Hinch said. “They got two, two-strike hits from Renfroe and Fermin, and then a bad splitter to a guy who can hit the ball out of the park.”Chris Stratton (4-3) got the win with a scoreless eighth. The Royals' Hunter Harvey, who squandered a two-run lead in the ninth inning of a 6-5, 11-inning loss on Saturday, pitched the ninth for his first save.“We acquired (Harvey) to pitch in high-leverage situations, and that was high leverage,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “There's a reason we gave up good players to get him, so we're not going to run away from one bad outing.”The Royals have won six of their last seven games.“We talked a lot about how they got one from us yesterday late, and then we turned around and did that today,” Quatraro said. “That's why you can't get too high or too low, because the same thing will happen to you.”The Tigers went 2-7 on a nine-game homestand against Minnesota, Cleveland and Kansas City.The Tigers have two healthy starting pitchers after trading Jack Flaherty, so manager Hinch has relied heavily on his bullpen. On Sunday, he got four scoreless innings from Alex Faedo and Brenan Hanifee before turning the ball over to Brant Hurter for his major league debut.The Tigers took a 1-0 lead when Zach McKinstry tripled and scored on Gio Urshela's two-out single in the second inning. Matt Vierling made it 2-0 in the fifth, driving in Javier Baez with a sacrifice fly.Hurter struck out Salvador Perez and Paul DeJong to get out of a jam in the sixth inning, and allowed two hits before leaving after the seventh. Will Vest pitched the eighth, but Miller couldn't finish it.“Our pitching was awesome,” Hinch said. “Faedo had to battle and Hanifee came in and got the ball on the ground. They stacked the lineup expecting to see Hurter, and he got us once through the order. After that, we had avenues to get it done, so it is a gut-punch to lose.”Miller (5-7) worked two-thirds of an inning and took the loss.UP NEXTRoyals: Open a three-game home series against the Red Sox on Monday. RHP Brady Singer (8-6, 2.88) is scheduled to start against Boston LHP James Paxton (8-3, 4.52).Tigers: After an off day Monday, take on the Mariners for three games in Seattle. Detroit's RHP Keider Montero (1-5, 6.18) is scheduled to start Tuesday. Seattle has not named a starter.___

⚾ Melendez pinch-hit homer in the 9th lifts Royals past Tigers

DETROIT (AP) — Wenceel Pérez singled with two out in the 11th inning and the Detroit Tigers rallied three times to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Saturday night.

The Tigers trailed in the ninth, 10th and 11th innings, and ended a five-game losing streak. Kansas City had won five straight.

Parker Meadows led off the 11th with an RBI triple and the Royals intentionally walked Javier Báez. Jake Rogers hit into a double play, but Pérez lined a ball off the wall in right center field off James McArthur (4-5).

The Royals led 3-1 going into the ninth, but Bligh Madris led off the ninth inning with a home run off Hunter Harvey. Zach McKinstry followed with a pinch-hit double.

McKinstry took third on Parker Meadows' groundout and scored on Báez's double. Báez stole third without a throw, but Pérez grounded out to end the inning.

The Royals took a 4-3 lead in the 10th on Bobby Witt Jr.'s sacrifice fly off Jason Foley (3-3), but Justyn-Henry Malloy tied the game with a two-out double.

Vinnie Pasquatino made it 1-0 in the sixth inning with a long homer off Kenta Maeda — his fourth homer in as many games — but Andy Ibáñez tied it with an RBI single in the bottom of the inning.

Paul DeJong put the Royals back in front 3-1 with a seventh-inning homer — the 18th homer off Maeda in 80 innings this season.

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch made an unusual defensive move early in the game. Pérez started the game in left field with Matt Vierling playing right, but they reversed positions for the second.

The first pitch was delayed 25 minutes by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/leyland-tigers-retired-number-522e49ae4cfd62961b61df59aeaec815">a ceremony to retire the No. 10 worn by</a>&nbsp;former Tigers manager and 2024 Hall of Fame inductee Jim Leyland.

The teams finish the four-game series on Sunday afternoon, with Royals RHP Michael Wacha (8-6, 3.58 ERA) pitching against the Tigers' bullpen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722782048166.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals pitcher James McArthur throws against the Detroit Tigers in the 11th inning of a baseball game, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals pitcher James McArthur throws against the Detroit Tigers in the 11th inning of a baseball game, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Wenceel Pérez singled with two out in the 11th inning and the Detroit Tigers rallied three times to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-5 on Saturday night.The Tigers trailed in the ninth, 10th and 11th innings, and ended a five-game losing streak. Kansas City had won five straight.Parker Meadows led off the 11th with an RBI triple and the Royals intentionally walked Javier Báez. Jake Rogers hit into a double play, but Pérez lined a ball off the wall in right center field off James McArthur (4-5).The Royals led 3-1 going into the ninth, but Bligh Madris led off the ninth inning with a home run off Hunter Harvey. Zach McKinstry followed with a pinch-hit double.McKinstry took third on Parker Meadows' groundout and scored on Báez's double. Báez stole third without a throw, but Pérez grounded out to end the inning.The Royals took a 4-3 lead in the 10th on Bobby Witt Jr.'s sacrifice fly off Jason Foley (3-3), but Justyn-Henry Malloy tied the game with a two-out double.Vinnie Pasquatino made it 1-0 in the sixth inning with a long homer off Kenta Maeda — his fourth homer in as many games — but Andy Ibáñez tied it with an RBI single in the bottom of the inning.Paul DeJong put the Royals back in front 3-1 with a seventh-inning homer — the 18th homer off Maeda in 80 innings this season.Tigers manager A.J. Hinch made an unusual defensive move early in the game. Pérez started the game in left field with Matt Vierling playing right, but they reversed positions for the second.The first pitch was delayed 25 minutes by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/leyland-tigers-retired-number-522e49ae4cfd62961b61df59aeaec815">a ceremony to retire the No. 10 worn by</a>&nbsp;former Tigers manager and 2024 Hall of Fame inductee Jim Leyland.UP NEXTThe teams finish the four-game series on Sunday afternoon, with Royals RHP Michael Wacha (8-6, 3.58 ERA) pitching against the Tigers' bullpen.___

⚾ Wenceel Pérez's single in the 11th lifts Tigers to win over Royals

DETROIT (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits, including a home run, and the Kansas City Royals won their fifth straight by routing Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers 9-2 on Friday night.

Cole Ragans (8-7) held the Tigers to two runs on two hits in 5 2/3 innings. He walked four and struck out six.

Skubal (12-4) allowed a season-worst five runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings. Skubal, who struck out eight, is 2-9 against the Royals with a 5.05 ERA in 14 games, 12 of them starts.

“They don't have a lot of swing and misses over there, and if you chase them, you can get into some bad counts,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “I thought Tarik did a job of pitching to the game situation, but they had a good approach and continued it against our bullpen.”

The Royals chased Skubal in a six-run seventh inning that included nine straight hits, two stolen bases and a wild pitch.

“You can't ever plan for that, for sure, but the approaches were so good, especially once we got going a little bit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That inning was remarkable.”

The Tigers, who have been outscored 34-7 during a five-game losing streak, took a 2-0 lead on Justyn-Henry Malloy's first-inning homer, but Perez led off the second with a homer off the bricks behind the stands in left-center field to make it 2-1.

“I thought he set the tone for us with the home run,” Quatraro said. “Skubal has no-hit stuff every night, and he goes up there and crushed that slider. That got us right back in the game after they got two."

Perez scored from first on Hunter Renfroe's double in the fourth, and Paul DeJong made it 3-2 with a sacrifice fly on his 31st birthday to score Renfroe.

The Royals blew the game open in the seventh. Dairon Blanco and Maikel Garcia singled with one out to end Skubal's night. Bobby Witt Jr. greeted Shelby Miller with an infield single to load the bases.

“You don't want to let anyone see a pitcher for a fourth time, and as the inning developed, we wanted to get a different look to the middle of the order,” Hinch said. “It's frustrating when that doesn't work, and it obviously didn't tonight.”

Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run single, making it 5-2, followed by a double steal and a run-scoring wild pitch. Perez hit an RBI double for his third hit.

Renfroe and Freddy Fermin singled to make it seven straight hits and an 8-2 lead. Beau Brieske gave up singles to Garrett Hampson and DeJong before getting the last two outs.

Wenceel Pérez made a spectacular running catch in the eighth inning to rob Perez of a fourth hit and a possible triple that would have given him a cycle.

The teams play the third game of the series on Saturday with Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-6, 3.81) making his Kansas City debut. Lorenzen was a 2023 All-Star with the Tigers. Detroit, down to two healthy starters, will use its bullpen for another nine innings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722662336303.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Salvador Perez had three hits, including a home run, and the Kansas City Royals won their fifth straight by routing Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers 9-2 on Friday night.Cole Ragans (8-7) held the Tigers to two runs on two hits in 5 2/3 innings. He walked four and struck out six.Skubal (12-4) allowed a season-worst five runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings. Skubal, who struck out eight, is 2-9 against the Royals with a 5.05 ERA in 14 games, 12 of them starts.“They don't have a lot of swing and misses over there, and if you chase them, you can get into some bad counts,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “I thought Tarik did a job of pitching to the game situation, but they had a good approach and continued it against our bullpen.”The Royals chased Skubal in a six-run seventh inning that included nine straight hits, two stolen bases and a wild pitch.“You can't ever plan for that, for sure, but the approaches were so good, especially once we got going a little bit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “That inning was remarkable.”The Tigers, who have been outscored 34-7 during a five-game losing streak, took a 2-0 lead on Justyn-Henry Malloy's first-inning homer, but Perez led off the second with a homer off the bricks behind the stands in left-center field to make it 2-1.“I thought he set the tone for us with the home run,” Quatraro said. “Skubal has no-hit stuff every night, and he goes up there and crushed that slider. That got us right back in the game after they got two."Perez scored from first on Hunter Renfroe's double in the fourth, and Paul DeJong made it 3-2 with a sacrifice fly on his 31st birthday to score Renfroe.The Royals blew the game open in the seventh. Dairon Blanco and Maikel Garcia singled with one out to end Skubal's night. Bobby Witt Jr. greeted Shelby Miller with an infield single to load the bases.“You don't want to let anyone see a pitcher for a fourth time, and as the inning developed, we wanted to get a different look to the middle of the order,” Hinch said. “It's frustrating when that doesn't work, and it obviously didn't tonight.”Vinnie Pasquantino hit a two-run single, making it 5-2, followed by a double steal and a run-scoring wild pitch. Perez hit an RBI double for his third hit.Renfroe and Freddy Fermin singled to make it seven straight hits and an 8-2 lead. Beau Brieske gave up singles to Garrett Hampson and DeJong before getting the last two outs.Wenceel Pérez made a spectacular running catch in the eighth inning to rob Perez of a fourth hit and a possible triple that would have given him a cycle.UP NEXTThe teams play the third game of the series on Saturday with Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (5-6, 3.81) making his Kansas City debut. Lorenzen was a 2023 All-Star with the Tigers. Detroit, down to two healthy starters, will use its bullpen for another nine innings.

⚾ Salvador Perez homers and doubles and Royals rout Tigers 

DETROIT (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered twice, Seth Lugo gave up just four hits over eight strong innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 7-1 on Thursday night.

Bobby Witt Jr. also homered for the Royals, who are 4-0 on their current road trip. Detroit has lost four in a row and been outscored 25-5 in those games.

Lugo (13-5) gave up one run, struck out three and walked one after going 1-3 in July. He is 7-0 with a 1.31 ERA in nine starts against the AL Central this season.

Keider Montero (1-5) allowed four runs on six hits in a career-high seven innings. The rookie, one of Detroit's only two healthy starting pitchers, allowed three runs before he got an out, but settled down.

Maikel Garcia started the game with a single and stole second and third without throws. Witt walked and Pasquantino lined his 13th homer into the right-field stands for a 3-0 lead.

Bligh Madris got the Tigers on the board with a fourth-inning sacrifice fly, but Freddy Fermin's RBI single gave Kansas City a 4-1 lead in the seventh.

Witt and Pasquantino hit back-to-back homers in the eighth off Brenan Hanifee. It was Pasquantino's first multi-homer game, coming in the same stadium where he hit his first major league homer on July 1, 2022.

The Tigers, who only had 23 players on the active roster after the trading deadline, activated SS Javier Baez from the bereavement list and selected Hanifee and LHP Sean Guenther from Triple-A Toledo. Detroit will have 11 relievers for the four-game Royals series.

The teams play the second of the four-game series on Friday night, with Tigers LHP Tarik Skubal (12-3, 2.35) facing LHP Cole Ragans (7-7, 3.37).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722561010515.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino homered twice, Seth Lugo gave up just four hits over eight strong innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 7-1 on Thursday night.Bobby Witt Jr. also homered for the Royals, who are 4-0 on their current road trip. Detroit has lost four in a row and been outscored 25-5 in those games.Lugo (13-5) gave up one run, struck out three and walked one after going 1-3 in July. He is 7-0 with a 1.31 ERA in nine starts against the AL Central this season.Keider Montero (1-5) allowed four runs on six hits in a career-high seven innings. The rookie, one of Detroit's only two healthy starting pitchers, allowed three runs before he got an out, but settled down.Maikel Garcia started the game with a single and stole second and third without throws. Witt walked and Pasquantino lined his 13th homer into the right-field stands for a 3-0 lead.Bligh Madris got the Tigers on the board with a fourth-inning sacrifice fly, but Freddy Fermin's RBI single gave Kansas City a 4-1 lead in the seventh.Witt and Pasquantino hit back-to-back homers in the eighth off Brenan Hanifee. It was Pasquantino's first multi-homer game, coming in the same stadium where he hit his first major league homer on July 1, 2022.Witt added an RBI double in the ninth.TRAINER'S ROOMThe Tigers, who only had 23 players on the active roster after the trading deadline, activated SS Javier Baez from the bereavement list and selected Hanifee and LHP Sean Guenther from Triple-A Toledo. Detroit will have 11 relievers for the four-game Royals series.UP NEXTThe teams play the second of the four-game series on Friday night, with Tigers LHP Tarik Skubal (12-3, 2.35) facing LHP Cole Ragans (7-7, 3.37).

⚾ Pasquantino homers twice, Lugo goes 8 strong innings and Royals beat Tigers

CHICAGO (AP) — Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3 on Wednesday, extending Chicago’s franchise-record losing streak to 17 games.

Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three hits and drove in two runs in his 1,500th career game as the Royals won their third straight.

Perez joked that Fermin had his first four-hit game in the majors because the two natives of Venezuela chatted beforehand. Fermin appreciated the humor, then went to work.

“Just created my plan and tried to make a good swing and I did,” said Fermin, who is getting increased playing time and raised his batting average to .304. “I just want to continue to do that.”

Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting streak to 13 games with two infield singles, boosting his average to .349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole his 24th base as the middle of the Royals lineup produced.

“That's why they are the heart of the order,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “That's what we need from them and they know that. When they're driving in runs and getting on base, we're a deep lineup.”

Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.

“Show up in Minnesota,” Benintendi suggested as a way to end the skid. “I mean, if you dwell on it too long, I guess it will eat you up. So focus on the next one.”

Chicago (27-84) is 57 games below .500 for the first time and on pace for a worse finish than the 1962 New York Mets, whose 40-120 mark during their inaugural season is the poorest in baseball’s modern era (since 1900).

Brady Singer (8-6) allowed three runs on six hits over seven innings in his third straight win. The right-hander struck out four, walked none and was touched up only when Chicago scored three times in the second.

Singer settled down and retired 17 of his last 19 hitters.

“I was struggling a little bit at the beginning of the year,” he said. “I'm happy to get deep into ballgames toward the end of the year here.”

Kansas City is 60-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023 through 109 games, and holds an AL wild card.

White Sox rookie Drew Thorpe (3-3) yielded six runs and seven hits over five innings in a second consecutive rough outing following five quality starts.

The Royals jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on Pasquantino’s single. Fermin’s sixth homer in the second upped it to 3-0.

The White Sox tied it in the bottom half. Benintendi drove in two runs with his double and scored on Dominic Fletcher’s single.

Witt came home on Perez’s single in the third to put Kansas City back on top 4-3.

The Royals increased it to 6-3 in the fifth. Perez’s liner rolled out of Fletcher's glove in center for a double to drive in a run. Hunter Renfroe followed with a sacrifice fly.

Pasquantino's 12th homer iced it in a four-run eighth.

Kansas City RHP Michael Lorenzen, acquired from Texas in a trade Monday, will start Saturday at Detroit.

Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Marsh was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals and pitched a perfect eighth following a trade from Oakland.

White Sox 3B Yoán Moncada, out since April 9 with a left adductor strain, is “ramping up” activity at the team’s Arizona training facility, manager Pedro Grifol said.

Royals: RHP Seth Lugo (12-5, 2.66 ERA) faces Tigers RHP Keider Montero (1-4, 6.38) in Detroit on Thursday.

White Sox: RHP Davis Martin (0-0, 3.38 ERA) makes his first start since returning from Tommy John surgery against Twins RHP Joe Ryan (6-7, 3.69) on Friday in Minnesota.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722463224192.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Freddy Fermin launched a two-run homer among his four hits and the Kansas City Royals pounded the White Sox 10-3 on Wednesday, extending Chicago’s franchise-record losing streak to 17 games.Vinnie Pasquantino added a two-run shot and finished with three RBIs. Salvador Perez had three hits and drove in two runs in his 1,500th career game as the Royals won their third straight.Perez joked that Fermin had his first four-hit game in the majors because the two natives of Venezuela chatted beforehand. Fermin appreciated the humor, then went to work.“Just created my plan and tried to make a good swing and I did,” said Fermin, who is getting increased playing time and raised his batting average to .304. “I just want to continue to do that.”Major league batting leader Bobby Witt Jr. lengthened his hitting streak to 13 games with two infield singles, boosting his average to .349. The star shortstop walked twice, scored three runs and stole his 24th base as the middle of the Royals lineup produced.“That's why they are the heart of the order,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “That's what we need from them and they know that. When they're driving in runs and getting on base, we're a deep lineup.”Andrew Benintendi drove in two runs with a double and finished with two hits for the major league-worst White Sox, whose slide is the longest since Arizona dropped 17 straight games in 2021.“Show up in Minnesota,” Benintendi suggested as a way to end the skid. “I mean, if you dwell on it too long, I guess it will eat you up. So focus on the next one.”Chicago (27-84) is 57 games below .500 for the first time and on pace for a worse finish than the 1962 New York Mets, whose 40-120 mark during their inaugural season is the poorest in baseball’s modern era (since 1900).Brady Singer (8-6) allowed three runs on six hits over seven innings in his third straight win. The right-hander struck out four, walked none and was touched up only when Chicago scored three times in the second.Singer settled down and retired 17 of his last 19 hitters.“I was struggling a little bit at the beginning of the year,” he said. “I'm happy to get deep into ballgames toward the end of the year here.”Kansas City is 60-49, a 26-win improvement over 2023 through 109 games, and holds an AL wild card.White Sox rookie Drew Thorpe (3-3) yielded six runs and seven hits over five innings in a second consecutive rough outing following five quality starts.The Royals jumped ahead 1-0 in the first on Pasquantino’s single. Fermin’s sixth homer in the second upped it to 3-0.The White Sox tied it in the bottom half. Benintendi drove in two runs with his double and scored on Dominic Fletcher’s single.Witt came home on Perez’s single in the third to put Kansas City back on top 4-3.The Royals increased it to 6-3 in the fifth. Perez’s liner rolled out of Fletcher's glove in center for a double to drive in a run. Hunter Renfroe followed with a sacrifice fly.Pasquantino's 12th homer iced it in a four-run eighth.RETOOLED ROTATIONKansas City RHP Michael Lorenzen, acquired from Texas in a trade Monday, will start Saturday at Detroit.Lorenzen will fill the slot of righty Alec Marsh, who was optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Marsh was sent down to make room for reliever Lucas Erceg, who reported to the Royals and pitched a perfect eighth following a trade from Oakland.TRAINER’S ROOMWhite Sox 3B Yoán Moncada, out since April 9 with a left adductor strain, is “ramping up” activity at the team’s Arizona training facility, manager Pedro Grifol said.UP NEXTRoyals: RHP Seth Lugo (12-5, 2.66 ERA) faces Tigers RHP Keider Montero (1-4, 6.38) in Detroit on Thursday.White Sox: RHP Davis Martin (0-0, 3.38 ERA) makes his first start since returning from Tommy John surgery against Twins RHP Joe Ryan (6-7, 3.69) on Friday in Minnesota.

⚾ Fermin, Pasquantino homer as Royals hand White Sox 17th straight loss

CHICAGO (AP) — Paul DeJong had a quick commute after getting traded from the Chicago White Sox to the Kansas City Royals: He threw his gear into a duffel bag and walked from the clubhouse on the third base side of U.S. Cellular Field to the locker room on the first base side.

“It’s a lot better than worrying about getting to the airport and all that stuff,” DeJong said with a smile after Kansas City's 4-3 win Tuesday night. “It was pretty easy.”

DeJong was acquired for minor league right-hander Jarold Rosado in a trade announced 3 hours, 15 minutes before the game. White Sox clubhouse staff helped him pack his gear, and a Royals duffel bag awaited him in the other locker room.

DeJong, who turns 31 on Friday, did not play Tuesday night. He hit .228 with 18 homers and 41 RBIs for the White Sox, making 83 starts at shortstop and 10 at third base.

“I’m just happy to be on a great team. I’ve watched this team for a while now playing against them and it seems like just a great group of guys, a lot of young, hungry talent and a chance to win,” DeJong said. “I could have gone across the country but instead I go across the field, so it’s a day I’ll always remember.”

Kansas City has star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and starts Maikel Garcia in most games at third, likely making DeJong a bench option for manager Matt Quatraro.

“My role is going to be fluid. I think I’ll bounce around and I'll just try to take advantage of whatever opportunities I get,” DeJong said. “I’m going to take reps all around the infield, and whatever Q needs, whatever this team needs, I’m willing to do.”

DeJong agreed to a $1.75 million, one-year contract with Chicago and can earn $150,000 for 400 plate appearances — he has 363 — and $100,00 more for 500. He is a .229 career hitter with 134 homers and 385 RBIs for St. Louis (2017-23), Toronto (2023), San Francisco (2023) and the White Sox. He can become a free agent again after the World Series.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722418805139.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong talks to reporters shortly after being traded from the Chicago White Sox to the Royals before a baseball game between the two clubs Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Paul DeJong talks to reporters shortly after being traded from the Chicago White Sox to the Royals before a baseball game between the two clubs Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — Paul DeJong had a quick commute after getting traded from the Chicago White Sox to the Kansas City Royals: He threw his gear into a duffel bag and walked from the clubhouse on the third base side of U.S. Cellular Field to the locker room on the first base side.“It’s a lot better than worrying about getting to the airport and all that stuff,” DeJong said with a smile after Kansas City's 4-3 win Tuesday night. “It was pretty easy.”DeJong was acquired for minor league right-hander Jarold Rosado in a trade announced 3 hours, 15 minutes before the game. White Sox clubhouse staff helped him pack his gear, and a Royals duffel bag awaited him in the other locker room.DeJong, who turns 31 on Friday, did not play Tuesday night. He hit .228 with 18 homers and 41 RBIs for the White Sox, making 83 starts at shortstop and 10 at third base.“I’m just happy to be on a great team. I’ve watched this team for a while now playing against them and it seems like just a great group of guys, a lot of young, hungry talent and a chance to win,” DeJong said. “I could have gone across the country but instead I go across the field, so it’s a day I’ll always remember.”Kansas City has star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and starts Maikel Garcia in most games at third, likely making DeJong a bench option for manager Matt Quatraro.“My role is going to be fluid. I think I’ll bounce around and I'll just try to take advantage of whatever opportunities I get,” DeJong said. “I’m going to take reps all around the infield, and whatever Q needs, whatever this team needs, I’m willing to do.”DeJong agreed to a $1.75 million, one-year contract with Chicago and can earn $150,000 for 400 plate appearances — he has 363 — and $100,00 more for 500. He is a .229 career hitter with 134 homers and 385 RBIs for St. Louis (2017-23), Toronto (2023), San Francisco (2023) and the White Sox. He can become a free agent again after the World Series.