MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a></a>Kickoff times and television selections for four of K-State’s first five football games of 2023 have been announced as the Big 12 Conference and its television partners have made selections for the first three weeks of the season and special weeknight contests.

The Wildcats will open their Big 12-defending season on Sept. 2 against SEMO at 6 p.m., in a game shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+, and they stay at Bill Snyder Family Stadium the next Sept. 9, with an 11 a.m., tilt against Sun Belt Champion Troy that will be aired on FS1.

K-State hits the road for the first time in 2023 with an 11 a.m., contest at Missouri that will be broadcast by SEC Network. It is the Wildcats’ first trip to Columbia, Mo., since 2010 when the Tigers were members of the Big 12.

Kansas State will face Oklahoma State in a special Friday-night matchup on Oct. 6 that will kick at 6:30 p.m., and be shown on ESPN.

Season tickets are on sale now for the 2023 season and start at less than $30 per game. Single-game tickets will go on sale to Ahearn Fund members on June 12 and to the general public on June 15. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.

K-State SportsMANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a></a>Kickoff times and television selections for four of K-State’s first five football games of 2023 have been announced as the Big 12 Conference and its television partners have made selections for the first three weeks of the season and special weeknight contests.The Wildcats will open their Big 12-defending season on Sept. 2 against SEMO at 6 p.m., in a game shown on Big 12 Now on ESPN+, and they stay at Bill Snyder Family Stadium the next Sept. 9, with an 11 a.m., tilt against Sun Belt Champion Troy that will be aired on FS1.K-State hits the road for the first time in 2023 with an 11 a.m., contest at Missouri that will be broadcast by SEC Network. It is the Wildcats’ first trip to Columbia, Mo., since 2010 when the Tigers were members of the Big 12.Kansas State will face Oklahoma State in a special Friday-night matchup on Oct. 6 that will kick at 6:30 p.m., and be shown on ESPN.Season tickets are on sale now for the 2023 season and start at less than $30 per game. Single-game tickets will go on sale to Ahearn Fund members on June 12 and to the general public on June 15. Fans can order tickets online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-statesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.k-statesports.com/tickets</a>, by phone at 1-800-221-CATS or at the main ticket office inside Bramlage Coliseum.

K-State, Big 12 announce four football game times

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference released a portion of the early television broadcast assignments and kickoff times for the 2023 college football season on Wednesday. 

Times and TV designations are now set for Kansas’ games vs. Missouri State on Aug. 31 and at Nevada on Sept. 16. The season opener vs. Missouri State will kick off at 7 p.m. CT on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. It will be the third meeting all-time between the schools and the first since 2002. The Thursday night opener will mark the third-straight year Kansas has opened on a weeknight but is the first time opening on a Thursday after beginning the previous two seasons on Friday nights. The Jayhawks will kick off their road slate on Sept. 16 when they take on Nevada at 9:30 p.m. CT on CBS Sports Network. It will be the first meeting between the two schools, while Kansas holds a 13-4 record against the Mountain West all-time. Kansas’ 2023 schedule also features home games against Illinois (Sept. 9), BYU (Sept. 23), UCF (Oct. 7), Oklahoma (Oct. 28), Texas Tech (No. 11) and Kansas State (Nov. 16). The Jayhawks away schedule features additional games at Texas (Sept. 30), Oklahoma State (Oct. 14), Iowa State (Nov. 4) and Cincinnati (Nov. 25). The remainder of the season’s television selections will be announced on a 12-day or six-day notice via Big12Sports.com and the Conference’s official digital platforms. Information on the Illinois game should be available in the coming weeks. The Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship will return to AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for the ninth year. The game is slated for Dec. 2 with an 11 a.m. kickoff on ABC. The Big 12 had the second-highest attendance of last season’s conference title games with 69,335 spectators. The Championship delivered 9.4M viewers on ABC, the most-watched Big 12 Championship since 2018. It peaked at 12.7M viewers, the most of any conference championship across all networks. Big 12 Football Early Season and Special Date Television Selections (all times listed as Central) Aug. 31 Missouri State at Kansas (Big 12 Now on ESPN+), 7 p.m.&nbsp; Sept. 16 Kansas at Nevada (CBSSN), 9:30 p.m. Dec. 2 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship (ABC), 11 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KU AthleticsLAWRENCE –&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference released a portion of the early television broadcast assignments and kickoff times for the 2023 college football season on Wednesday. Times and TV designations are now set for Kansas’ games vs. Missouri State on Aug. 31 and at Nevada on Sept. 16. The season opener vs. Missouri State will kick off at 7 p.m. CT on Big 12 Now on ESPN+. It will be the third meeting all-time between the schools and the first since 2002. The Thursday night opener will mark the third-straight year Kansas has opened on a weeknight but is the first time opening on a Thursday after beginning the previous two seasons on Friday nights. The Jayhawks will kick off their road slate on Sept. 16 when they take on Nevada at 9:30 p.m. CT on CBS Sports Network. It will be the first meeting between the two schools, while Kansas holds a 13-4 record against the Mountain West all-time. Kansas’ 2023 schedule also features home games against Illinois (Sept. 9), BYU (Sept. 23), UCF (Oct. 7), Oklahoma (Oct. 28), Texas Tech (No. 11) and Kansas State (Nov. 16). The Jayhawks away schedule features additional games at Texas (Sept. 30), Oklahoma State (Oct. 14), Iowa State (Nov. 4) and Cincinnati (Nov. 25). The remainder of the season’s television selections will be announced on a 12-day or six-day notice via Big12Sports.com and the Conference’s official digital platforms. Information on the Illinois game should be available in the coming weeks. The Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship will return to AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for the ninth year. The game is slated for Dec. 2 with an 11 a.m. kickoff on ABC. The Big 12 had the second-highest attendance of last season’s conference title games with 69,335 spectators. The Championship delivered 9.4M viewers on ABC, the most-watched Big 12 Championship since 2018. It peaked at 12.7M viewers, the most of any conference championship across all networks. Big 12 Football Early Season and Special Date Television Selections (all times listed as Central) Aug. 31 Missouri State at Kansas (Big 12 Now on ESPN+), 7 p.m.&nbsp; Sept. 16 Kansas at Nevada (CBSSN), 9:30 p.m. Dec. 2 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship (ABC), 11 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KU football game times announced for Missouri State, Nevada games

MANHATTAN&nbsp;– Season tickets for the 2023-24 men’s and women’s basketball teams will go on-sale at 8:30 p.m., CT on Monday, athletic department officials announced on Wednesday.

Fans will once again want to make plans to be at Bramlage Coliseum in 2023-24, as excitement continues to grow for the men’s and women’s teams coming off outstanding seasons. The Wildcat men return several key components from a team that advanced to the Elite Eight and went 15-1 at Bramlage Coliseum under National Coach of the Year&nbsp;Jerome Tang. The women’s team is garnering preseason Top 25 mention for a squad that is expected to return consensus All-American&nbsp;Ayoka Lee, along with All-Big 12 selections&nbsp;Gabby Gregory&nbsp;and&nbsp;Serena Sundell, after winning 19 games and advancing to the WNIT Super 16.

The two teams attracted more than 200,000 fans to Bramlage Coliseum in 2022-23, including eight sellouts by the men’s team which were the most by the program in nearly a decade. The women’s team was once again one of the nation’s leaders in attendance, ranking 31st&nbsp;nationally.

Fans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with men’s basketball bench season tickets starting at $345 each. With the Wildcat 4-Pack, fans can purchase four (4) season tickets in the bench or Cat Cushion areas starting at $900, which is less than $15 per game.

General admission women's basketball season tickets start at $50 for football and men’s basketball season ticket holders, $75 for public, or $200 for a 4-Pack. Wildcat 4-Packs are available for approximately $3 per game.

Fans who order season tickets by the Incentive Deadline of June 30 will have the $10 processing fee waived, and a 4-month payment plan option. Those who order before the Renewal Deadline of Aug. 1 will be able to retain their seat and parking locations as well as receive a 3-month payment plan option. Online seat and parking upgrades will begin on Aug. 22.

New full season-ticket requests will be able to select their seat during the ordering process from any seat location available from the 2022-23 season.&nbsp;An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium, chairback and cushioned seating. Specific required giving levels by section are listed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/" target="_blank">www.AhearnFund.com</a>.

There are a number of premium seating options at Bramlage Coliseum, including 19 new courtside seats along the southeast baseline of the arena. For more information on premium seating opportunities, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ahearnfund.com/sports/2023/3/21/premium-seating-update.aspx" target="_blank">ahearnfund.com/premiumseating</a>&nbsp;or contact the Ahearn Fund at (888) 232-9074.

The men’s 2023-24 home schedule will include premier matchups with Villanova on Dec. 5 in the Big 12/BIG EAST Battle and Nebraska on Dec. 17, along with nine high-caliber conference games in the new-look Big 12, which welcomes BYU, Cincinnati, Houston and UCF as new members.

In addition, season-ticket holders will have the first opportunity to pre-order tickets at a discounted rate for the Wildcat Classic against in-state foe Wichita State at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on Thursday, Dec. 21.

In addition to nine Big 12 home games, the women's 2023-24 home schedule includes a return visit from Big Ten foe Wisconsin.

Fans can purchase season tickets in a variety of ways, including toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

K-State SportsMANHATTAN&nbsp;– Season tickets for the 2023-24 men’s and women’s basketball teams will go on-sale at 8:30 p.m., CT on Monday, athletic department officials announced on Wednesday.Fans will once again want to make plans to be at Bramlage Coliseum in 2023-24, as excitement continues to grow for the men’s and women’s teams coming off outstanding seasons. The Wildcat men return several key components from a team that advanced to the Elite Eight and went 15-1 at Bramlage Coliseum under National Coach of the Year&nbsp;Jerome Tang. The women’s team is garnering preseason Top 25 mention for a squad that is expected to return consensus All-American&nbsp;Ayoka Lee, along with All-Big 12 selections&nbsp;Gabby Gregory&nbsp;and&nbsp;Serena Sundell, after winning 19 games and advancing to the WNIT Super 16.The two teams attracted more than 200,000 fans to Bramlage Coliseum in 2022-23, including eight sellouts by the men’s team which were the most by the program in nearly a decade. The women’s team was once again one of the nation’s leaders in attendance, ranking 31st&nbsp;nationally.Fans have a variety of ticket prices and locations from which to choose from, with men’s basketball bench season tickets starting at $345 each. With the Wildcat 4-Pack, fans can purchase four (4) season tickets in the bench or Cat Cushion areas starting at $900, which is less than $15 per game.General admission women's basketball season tickets start at $50 for football and men’s basketball season ticket holders, $75 for public, or $200 for a 4-Pack. Wildcat 4-Packs are available for approximately $3 per game.Fans who order season tickets by the Incentive Deadline of June 30 will have the $10 processing fee waived, and a 4-month payment plan option. Those who order before the Renewal Deadline of Aug. 1 will be able to retain their seat and parking locations as well as receive a 3-month payment plan option. Online seat and parking upgrades will begin on Aug. 22.New full season-ticket requests will be able to select their seat during the ordering process from any seat location available from the 2022-23 season.&nbsp;An Ahearn Fund contribution is required for all premium, chairback and cushioned seating. Specific required giving levels by section are listed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ahearnfund.com/" target="_blank">www.AhearnFund.com</a>.There are a number of premium seating options at Bramlage Coliseum, including 19 new courtside seats along the southeast baseline of the arena. For more information on premium seating opportunities, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ahearnfund.com/sports/2023/3/21/premium-seating-update.aspx" target="_blank">ahearnfund.com/premiumseating</a>&nbsp;or contact the Ahearn Fund at (888) 232-9074.The men’s 2023-24 home schedule will include premier matchups with Villanova on Dec. 5 in the Big 12/BIG EAST Battle and Nebraska on Dec. 17, along with nine high-caliber conference games in the new-look Big 12, which welcomes BYU, Cincinnati, Houston and UCF as new members.In addition, season-ticket holders will have the first opportunity to pre-order tickets at a discounted rate for the Wildcat Classic against in-state foe Wichita State at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on Thursday, Dec. 21.In addition to nine Big 12 home games, the women's 2023-24 home schedule includes a return visit from Big Ten foe Wisconsin.Fans can purchase season tickets in a variety of ways, including toll free at (800) 221.CATS (2287) and online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kstatesports.com/tickets" target="_blank">www.kstatesports.com/tickets</a>.

K-State basketball 2023-24 season tickets on sale Monday

LAWRENCE –&nbsp;For the second straight semester, Kansas student-athletes established a new non-COVID era record, recording a combined department grade point average of 3.40.

Eleven programs established new program records with their grade point averages, while 89 student-athletes earned a 4.0 term GPA and 79 percent of all student-athletes earned AD Honor Roll status.

For the second straight semester, all 16 programs had a team GPA over 3.0 for the semester.

“This was another incredibly successful semester in the classroom, and I am especially proud that this is becoming the standard here because of the impressive work from our student-athletes and academic staff,” Director of Athletics Travis Goff said. “It is also an exceptional achievement to have 11 programs establish new records and continue to raise the bar each and every semester.”

So far this year, Kansas has had 106 student-athletes earn Academic All-Conference honors from the Big 12, including 74 in the fall and 32 in the winter. The spring sports teams will be announced in June.

KU AthleticsLAWRENCE –&nbsp;For the second straight semester, Kansas student-athletes established a new non-COVID era record, recording a combined department grade point average of 3.40.Eleven programs established new program records with their grade point averages, while 89 student-athletes earned a 4.0 term GPA and 79 percent of all student-athletes earned AD Honor Roll status.For the second straight semester, all 16 programs had a team GPA over 3.0 for the semester.“This was another incredibly successful semester in the classroom, and I am especially proud that this is becoming the standard here because of the impressive work from our student-athletes and academic staff,” Director of Athletics Travis Goff said. “It is also an exceptional achievement to have 11 programs establish new records and continue to raise the bar each and every semester.”So far this year, Kansas has had 106 student-athletes earn Academic All-Conference honors from the Big 12, including 74 in the fall and 32 in the winter. The spring sports teams will be announced in June.

KU student-athletes have record-breaking semester in classroom

By WARREN MAYES Associated Press

ST. LOUIS — Miles Mikolas pitched eight shutout innings, Nolan Arenado hit an RBI double and Nolan Gorman drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Tuesday night to split the two-game set between the I-70 rivals.

Mikolas (4-1) matched a career high with 10 strikeouts and allowed three hits. The strikeout total matched the 34-year-old right-hander's effort against Milwaukee in 2019.

The Cardinals needed a defensive gem in the fourth inning to keep the game scoreless. With two outs and MJ Melendez on second, Michael Massey singled to right. Brendan Donovan threw a strike to the plate and Willson Contreras applied the tag to Melendez.

Gionvanny Gallegos replaced Mikolas in the ninth and gave up a double and single to start the inning. Vinnie Pasquantino scored on a fielder's choice by Bobby Witt Jr., cutting the deficit to a run. Gallegos went on to retire the next two hitters and record his seventh save.

The Cardinals got a run in the sixth with two outs against Carlos Hernández (0-2). Paul Goldschmidt reached first on an infield single. Arenado hit a run-scoring double to left-center. Arenado has a team-high 18 RBIs in interleague play this season.

St. Louis extended its lead to 2-0 in the eighth Gorman's sac fly off Aroldis Chapman, scoring Tommy Edman.

Zack Greinke started for the Royals but didn't figure in the decision. He pitched five scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk with six strikeouts. He ranks first in starts (526) and innings pitched (3,309 1/3), second in wins (224) and third in strikeouts (2,929) among active pitchers.

After off days Wednesday and Thursday, the Cardinals return Friday, continuing a stretch of 13 of 15 games on the road between May 22-June 7.

Tommy Edman made his first career start and third overall appearance in center field in the regular season, previously appearing as a defensive replacement on July 12, 2019 verus Arizona (one inning) and May 21, 2022 at Pittsburgh (five innings). The 28-year-old Edman also appeared in center in Game 4 of the NLCS at Washington (one inning). This season, the former Gold Glove second baseman has appeared at shortstop (27 games), second base (21 games), and right field (seven games).

With a win, the Cardinals (15-13) achieved a winning month of May for the 16th time since 2000.

Royals: OF Kyle Isbel (left hamstring strain) still undergoing a rehab process after getting hurt running out a bunt earlier this month against Baltimore. He is doing more baseball activity, but a rehab assignment is not in the immediate future.

Cardinals: OF Lars Nootbar (back spasms) is getting treatment and listed as day to day. He left Monday's game in third inning under his own power while walking with trainers. … RHP Jake Woodford (right shoulder inflammation) began an injury rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday night, starting for the Redbirds at the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Royals' affiliate. Woodford has missed the last 24 games.

Royals: The club has off Wednesday and Thursday before before hosting Colorado on Friday. No starter for either club has been named.

Cardinals: The team has Wednesday and Thursday off before playing Friday at Pittsburgh. No starter has been determined.

By WARREN MAYES Associated PressST. LOUIS — Miles Mikolas pitched eight shutout innings, Nolan Arenado hit an RBI double and Nolan Gorman drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Tuesday night to split the two-game set between the I-70 rivals.Mikolas (4-1) matched a career high with 10 strikeouts and allowed three hits. The strikeout total matched the 34-year-old right-hander's effort against Milwaukee in 2019.The Cardinals needed a defensive gem in the fourth inning to keep the game scoreless. With two outs and MJ Melendez on second, Michael Massey singled to right. Brendan Donovan threw a strike to the plate and Willson Contreras applied the tag to Melendez.Gionvanny Gallegos replaced Mikolas in the ninth and gave up a double and single to start the inning. Vinnie Pasquantino scored on a fielder's choice by Bobby Witt Jr., cutting the deficit to a run. Gallegos went on to retire the next two hitters and record his seventh save.The Cardinals got a run in the sixth with two outs against Carlos Hernández (0-2). Paul Goldschmidt reached first on an infield single. Arenado hit a run-scoring double to left-center. Arenado has a team-high 18 RBIs in interleague play this season.St. Louis extended its lead to 2-0 in the eighth Gorman's sac fly off Aroldis Chapman, scoring Tommy Edman.Zack Greinke started for the Royals but didn't figure in the decision. He pitched five scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk with six strikeouts. He ranks first in starts (526) and innings pitched (3,309 1/3), second in wins (224) and third in strikeouts (2,929) among active pitchers.ROAD TRIPPING REDBIRDSAfter off days Wednesday and Thursday, the Cardinals return Friday, continuing a stretch of 13 of 15 games on the road between May 22-June 7.TOMMY BOYTommy Edman made his first career start and third overall appearance in center field in the regular season, previously appearing as a defensive replacement on July 12, 2019 verus Arizona (one inning) and May 21, 2022 at Pittsburgh (five innings). The 28-year-old Edman also appeared in center in Game 4 of the NLCS at Washington (one inning). This season, the former Gold Glove second baseman has appeared at shortstop (27 games), second base (21 games), and right field (seven games).MAY DAYWith a win, the Cardinals (15-13) achieved a winning month of May for the 16th time since 2000.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: OF Kyle Isbel (left hamstring strain) still undergoing a rehab process after getting hurt running out a bunt earlier this month against Baltimore. He is doing more baseball activity, but a rehab assignment is not in the immediate future.Cardinals: OF Lars Nootbar (back spasms) is getting treatment and listed as day to day. He left Monday's game in third inning under his own power while walking with trainers. … RHP Jake Woodford (right shoulder inflammation) began an injury rehabilitation assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Tuesday night, starting for the Redbirds at the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Royals' affiliate. Woodford has missed the last 24 games.UP NEXTRoyals: The club has off Wednesday and Thursday before before hosting Colorado on Friday. No starter for either club has been named.Cardinals: The team has Wednesday and Thursday off before playing Friday at Pittsburgh. No starter has been determined.

Mikolas works 8 shutout innings, leads Cardinals to win over Royals

ST. LOUIS — Josh Staumont and Mike Mayers came within six outs of the first combined perfect game in major league history before Nolan Arenado lined a leadoff single in the eighth inning of the Kansas City Royals' 7-0 win over the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday.

Staumont, a 29-year-old right-hander, served as the opener in a planned bullpen game for the Royals. He made his first major league start in his 167th appearance and struck out two in a 1-2-3 inning, throwing 14 pitches.

Mayers, a 31-year-old left-hander who pitched for the Cardinals from 2016-19, made his third appearance for the Royals this season after eight starts at Triple-A Omaha. He retired 18 consecutive batters before Arenado lined a 1-0 slider to left on his 72nd pitch. Willson Contreras followed with a single to center that stopped an 0 for 27 slide.

Taylor Clarke relieved and retired Brendan Donovan, Paul DeJong and Alex Burleson in order. Amir Garrett pitched a perfect ninth to finish a two-hitter and Kansas City's second shutout this year.

St. Louis was shut out for the sixth time and has scored 13 runs in its last six games.

There have been 23 perfect games, the last by Seattle's Félix Hernández against Tampa Bay on Aug. 15, 2012. All perfect games have been complete games.

Kansas City had not shut out the Cardinals since May 22, 2015, and had not blanked them in St. Louis since June 2, 2014.

In the opener of a two-game series, the Royals tied their season high with 16 hits and stranded 14 runners, one shy of their high.

Nicky Lopez matched his career high with four hits, and Nick Pratto and Vinnie Pasquantino had three each. Mike Massey hit a two-run homer and Bobby Witt Jr. added a solo homer.

Adam Wainwright (2-1) allowed three runs and nine hits in five innings for the Cardinals, playing their 18th game in a stretch of 19 days in a row. The Cardinals and the Royals have back-to-back days off Wednesday and Thursday.

Pasquantino hit an RBI double in the third. MJ Melendez hit a run-scoring triple in the fifth and scored on Freddy Fermin's bunt down the first-base line for a 3-0 lead.

Pasquantino had an RBI single off Steven Matz in the eighth, and Witt and Massey homered in the ninth against Drew VerHagen.

CF Lars Nootbar left after Pratto doubled leading off the third inning, appearing to pull up near the wall. Nootbar has slammed into the wall catching a Massey drive in the second. The Cardinals said Nootbar had back spasms.

Royals: RHP Brad Keller (right shoulder impingement syndrome) is progressing well after throwing a recent bullpen.

Cardinals: OF Dylan Carlson (left ankle sprain) has been taking swings from the right side. On Monday, he took swings left-handed. Once he is comfortable, he will have short rehab stint in the minors.

RHP Zack Greinke (1-5, 4.55) starts Tuesday for the Royals and RHP Miles Mikolas (3-1, 4.23) for the Cardinals. Grienke is 13-7 with a 3.48 ERA against St. Louis. Mikolas pitched a four-hit shutout in his only game against the Royals on May 21, 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685397386878.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of the game against the Cardinals Monday in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of the game against the Cardinals Monday in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)</figcaption>
 </figure>By WARREN MAYES Associated PressST. LOUIS — Josh Staumont and Mike Mayers came within six outs of the first combined perfect game in major league history before Nolan Arenado lined a leadoff single in the eighth inning of the Kansas City Royals' 7-0 win over the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday.Staumont, a 29-year-old right-hander, served as the opener in a planned bullpen game for the Royals. He made his first major league start in his 167th appearance and struck out two in a 1-2-3 inning, throwing 14 pitches.Mayers, a 31-year-old left-hander who pitched for the Cardinals from 2016-19, made his third appearance for the Royals this season after eight starts at Triple-A Omaha. He retired 18 consecutive batters before Arenado lined a 1-0 slider to left on his 72nd pitch. Willson Contreras followed with a single to center that stopped an 0 for 27 slide.Taylor Clarke relieved and retired Brendan Donovan, Paul DeJong and Alex Burleson in order. Amir Garrett pitched a perfect ninth to finish a two-hitter and Kansas City's second shutout this year.St. Louis was shut out for the sixth time and has scored 13 runs in its last six games.There have been 23 perfect games, the last by Seattle's Félix Hernández against Tampa Bay on Aug. 15, 2012. All perfect games have been complete games.Kansas City had not shut out the Cardinals since May 22, 2015, and had not blanked them in St. Louis since June 2, 2014.In the opener of a two-game series, the Royals tied their season high with 16 hits and stranded 14 runners, one shy of their high.Nicky Lopez matched his career high with four hits, and Nick Pratto and Vinnie Pasquantino had three each. Mike Massey hit a two-run homer and Bobby Witt Jr. added a solo homer.Adam Wainwright (2-1) allowed three runs and nine hits in five innings for the Cardinals, playing their 18th game in a stretch of 19 days in a row. The Cardinals and the Royals have back-to-back days off Wednesday and Thursday.Pasquantino hit an RBI double in the third. MJ Melendez hit a run-scoring triple in the fifth and scored on Freddy Fermin's bunt down the first-base line for a 3-0 lead.Pasquantino had an RBI single off Steven Matz in the eighth, and Witt and Massey homered in the ninth against Drew VerHagen.NOOTBAR HURTCF Lars Nootbar left after Pratto doubled leading off the third inning, appearing to pull up near the wall. Nootbar has slammed into the wall catching a Massey drive in the second. The Cardinals said Nootbar had back spasms.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: RHP Brad Keller (right shoulder impingement syndrome) is progressing well after throwing a recent bullpen.Cardinals: OF Dylan Carlson (left ankle sprain) has been taking swings from the right side. On Monday, he took swings left-handed. Once he is comfortable, he will have short rehab stint in the minors.UP NEXTRHP Zack Greinke (1-5, 4.55) starts Tuesday for the Royals and RHP Miles Mikolas (3-1, 4.23) for the Cardinals. Grienke is 13-7 with a 3.48 ERA against St. Louis. Mikolas pitched a four-hit shutout in his only game against the Royals on May 21, 2018.

Royals' Staumont, Mayers within 6 outs of perfect game in win over Cards

By JENNA FRYER AP Auto Racing Writer

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis 500 is the one race Josef Newgarden desperately wanted to win.

It's basically the only race that matters to his boss.

Coming up empty for 11 consecutive years had become personal for the two-time IndyCar champion.

Newgarden finally broke through Sunday, though, winning the Indy 500 to extend team owner Roger Penske's record to 19 victories — and the first since he bought Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Newgarden did it with an audacious pass of defending race winner Marcus Ericsson during a frantic, controversial 2.5-mile sprint to the finish.

"We've had a tough go here the last three, four years, and we've had a lot of questions to answer every day, after every qualifying weekend. We've had to come out and put on a brave face," Newgarden said. "It's just not an easy place to succeed at. I don't necessarily subscribe to the fact that if you don't win the 500, your career is a failure.

"But I think a lot of people view this race and this championship with that lens," Newgarden continued. "The 500 stands alone and if you are not able to capture one, the career really is a failure."

After the race was red-flagged for the third time in the final 16 laps, Newgarden was moved from fourth to second by race control following a review of the running order at the time the yellow flag waved.

He took advantage of his improved position to slingshot around Ericsson on the restart and hold him off from there.

Newgarden brought his Chevrolet-powered car to a stop on the front stretch, jumped out and found a hole in the fence, diving into part of a crowd estimated at more than 300,000 to celebrate. Then, Newgarden climbed the fence to mimic longtime Team Penske driver and four-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves.

The 32-year-old from Nashville is the first American to win the Indy 500 since Alexander Rossi in 2016. He led five of the 200 laps and beat Ericsson in the fourth-closest finish in 107 years with a margin of victory of .0974 seconds.

"I'm just so thankful to be here. I started out as a fan in the crowd, and this place is amazing, regardless of where you're sitting," Newgarden said after pouring a bottle of whole milk over his head. "Everyone kept asking why I hadn't won this race, and they look at you like you're a failure if you haven't won it. I knew I was capable. I knew I could."

Ericsson finished second in a Honda for Chip Ganassi Racing, and he immediately criticized IndyCar's decision to hold a one-lap shootout to the checkered flag. The Swede believed the race should have ended under caution, with him the winner, rather than having the green flag fly on the first lap out of the pits.

"I think it wasn't enough laps to go to do what we did. I don't think it's safe to go out of the pits on cold tires for a restart when half the field is sort of still trying to get out on track when we go green," Ericsson said. "I can't agree with that."

Newgarden and Ericsson were followed by Santino Ferrucci, who gave 88-year-old A.J. Foyt his team's best finish in the iconic race that Super Tex won four times since Kenny Bräck reached victory lane in 1999.

Alex Palou, the pole sitter and race favorite for Chip Ganassi Racing, finished fourth after recovering from a crash on pit road, and Rossi was fifth on what was an otherwise disappointing day for Arrow McLaren.

What was on pace to be the fastest Indy 500 in history ended with three red flags in the final 16 laps.

The first came for a crash involving Felix Rosenqvist and Kyle Kirkwood, who were near the front of the lead pack. Kirkwood went upside down into the catch fence, beginning a terrifying, spark-filled ride through the short chute.

One of Kirkwood's wheels sailed over the fencing and narrowly cleared the packed grandstand. Nobody was injured. His tire smashed the hood of a Chevrolet in a parking lot next to the grandstand.

"All I know is I was up in the fence, which is never a good thing in IndyCar. Thank God these cars are so safe," Kirkwood said. "I saw sparks flying everywhere. That's the scary part. You're upside-down and you're kind of stuck at that point."

On the restart, Pato O'Ward — who already had a restart called off for setting too slow of a pace — was shuffled from first to third as Newgarden shot to the lead. O'Ward and Ericsson were then side by side entering Turn 3 and touched wheels, and O'Ward slid into the wall and out of the race in another disappointment for Arrow McLaren.

Agustin Canapino did a 360-spin behind him, snapping a break line. He was unable to stop and collided with O'Ward's car.

"I was a little too nice there," O'Ward said. "I just feel so bummed for the team. ... I got onto the apron to give (Ericsson) room. I got squeezed. Yeah, I won't forget that."

Suddenly, the race had its second red flag with six laps to go.

Last year's race was red-flagged with five to go, when Ericsson was leading O'Ward to the finish. Ericsson held him off the rest of the way, and many criticized O'Ward for not making a more aggressive move for the win.

Newgarden didn't make the same mistake with Ericsson out in front of him.

As Newgarden crossed the yard of bricks, Penske and his entire executive committee jumped up and down in celebration on an elevated platform near the start-finish line. And for a moment, the 86-year-old team owner looked like a child filled with joy.

"The last two laps, I forgot about being the track owner and said 'Let's go for it,'" said Penske, who joined Newgarden in an open-top Chevy Camaro for a victory lap around the speedway. It was the first Indy win for a Team Penske driver since 2019, the year before Roger Penske bought the track.

"We always want to win this place, but 2019 was the last time that we had won and somebody else owned the place before," Penske president Tim Cindric said. "I apologize it's taken four years."

Roger Penske's parking spot inside the speedway has been marked simply 18 for the last four years. Newgarden was still doing postrace media obligations and the spot had already been changed to 19.

"I think back about coming here in 1951 with my dad to see the first race of my own with him, and of course never realized that many, many years would pass and I would be here today, our family as the steward of the track, and also to have 19 wins," Penske said.

AP Sports Writer Dave Skretta contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685316632158.jpeg" alt="Josef Newgarden celebrates after winning the Indianapolis 500 auto race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis Sunday. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)" />
 <figcaption>Josef Newgarden celebrates after winning the Indianapolis 500 auto race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis Sunday. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JENNA FRYER AP Auto Racing WriterINDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis 500 is the one race Josef Newgarden desperately wanted to win.It's basically the only race that matters to his boss.Coming up empty for 11 consecutive years had become personal for the two-time IndyCar champion.Newgarden finally broke through Sunday, though, winning the Indy 500 to extend team owner Roger Penske's record to 19 victories — and the first since he bought Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Newgarden did it with an audacious pass of defending race winner Marcus Ericsson during a frantic, controversial 2.5-mile sprint to the finish."We've had a tough go here the last three, four years, and we've had a lot of questions to answer every day, after every qualifying weekend. We've had to come out and put on a brave face," Newgarden said. "It's just not an easy place to succeed at. I don't necessarily subscribe to the fact that if you don't win the 500, your career is a failure."But I think a lot of people view this race and this championship with that lens," Newgarden continued. "The 500 stands alone and if you are not able to capture one, the career really is a failure."After the race was red-flagged for the third time in the final 16 laps, Newgarden was moved from fourth to second by race control following a review of the running order at the time the yellow flag waved.He took advantage of his improved position to slingshot around Ericsson on the restart and hold him off from there.Newgarden brought his Chevrolet-powered car to a stop on the front stretch, jumped out and found a hole in the fence, diving into part of a crowd estimated at more than 300,000 to celebrate. Then, Newgarden climbed the fence to mimic longtime Team Penske driver and four-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves.The 32-year-old from Nashville is the first American to win the Indy 500 since Alexander Rossi in 2016. He led five of the 200 laps and beat Ericsson in the fourth-closest finish in 107 years with a margin of victory of .0974 seconds."I'm just so thankful to be here. I started out as a fan in the crowd, and this place is amazing, regardless of where you're sitting," Newgarden said after pouring a bottle of whole milk over his head. "Everyone kept asking why I hadn't won this race, and they look at you like you're a failure if you haven't won it. I knew I was capable. I knew I could."Ericsson finished second in a Honda for Chip Ganassi Racing, and he immediately criticized IndyCar's decision to hold a one-lap shootout to the checkered flag. The Swede believed the race should have ended under caution, with him the winner, rather than having the green flag fly on the first lap out of the pits."I think it wasn't enough laps to go to do what we did. I don't think it's safe to go out of the pits on cold tires for a restart when half the field is sort of still trying to get out on track when we go green," Ericsson said. "I can't agree with that."Newgarden and Ericsson were followed by Santino Ferrucci, who gave 88-year-old A.J. Foyt his team's best finish in the iconic race that Super Tex won four times since Kenny Bräck reached victory lane in 1999.Alex Palou, the pole sitter and race favorite for Chip Ganassi Racing, finished fourth after recovering from a crash on pit road, and Rossi was fifth on what was an otherwise disappointing day for Arrow McLaren.What was on pace to be the fastest Indy 500 in history ended with three red flags in the final 16 laps.The first came for a crash involving Felix Rosenqvist and Kyle Kirkwood, who were near the front of the lead pack. Kirkwood went upside down into the catch fence, beginning a terrifying, spark-filled ride through the short chute.One of Kirkwood's wheels sailed over the fencing and narrowly cleared the packed grandstand. Nobody was injured. His tire smashed the hood of a Chevrolet in a parking lot next to the grandstand."All I know is I was up in the fence, which is never a good thing in IndyCar. Thank God these cars are so safe," Kirkwood said. "I saw sparks flying everywhere. That's the scary part. You're upside-down and you're kind of stuck at that point."On the restart, Pato O'Ward — who already had a restart called off for setting too slow of a pace — was shuffled from first to third as Newgarden shot to the lead. O'Ward and Ericsson were then side by side entering Turn 3 and touched wheels, and O'Ward slid into the wall and out of the race in another disappointment for Arrow McLaren.Agustin Canapino did a 360-spin behind him, snapping a break line. He was unable to stop and collided with O'Ward's car."I was a little too nice there," O'Ward said. "I just feel so bummed for the team. ... I got onto the apron to give (Ericsson) room. I got squeezed. Yeah, I won't forget that."Suddenly, the race had its second red flag with six laps to go.Last year's race was red-flagged with five to go, when Ericsson was leading O'Ward to the finish. Ericsson held him off the rest of the way, and many criticized O'Ward for not making a more aggressive move for the win.Newgarden didn't make the same mistake with Ericsson out in front of him.As Newgarden crossed the yard of bricks, Penske and his entire executive committee jumped up and down in celebration on an elevated platform near the start-finish line. And for a moment, the 86-year-old team owner looked like a child filled with joy."The last two laps, I forgot about being the track owner and said 'Let's go for it,'" said Penske, who joined Newgarden in an open-top Chevy Camaro for a victory lap around the speedway. It was the first Indy win for a Team Penske driver since 2019, the year before Roger Penske bought the track."We always want to win this place, but 2019 was the last time that we had won and somebody else owned the place before," Penske president Tim Cindric said. "I apologize it's taken four years."Roger Penske's parking spot inside the speedway has been marked simply 18 for the last four years. Newgarden was still doing postrace media obligations and the spot had already been changed to 19."I think back about coming here in 1951 with my dad to see the first race of my own with him, and of course never realized that many, many years would pass and I would be here today, our family as the steward of the track, and also to have 19 wins," Penske said.AP Sports Writer Dave Skretta contributed to this report.

Newgarden wins 1st Indianapolis 500, extends Roger Penske's record

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Dániel Sallói scored the go-ahead goal and Sporting Kansas City used an own-goal by Portland's Larrys Mabiala to provide some cushion in a 4-1 victory over the Timbers on Sunday.

Portland jumped on top early on Franck Boli's third goal of the season — unassisted in the 8th minute.

Erik Thommy scored the equalizer for Sporting KC (3-8-4) when he took a pass from Marinos Tzionis in the 33rd minute and notched his second goal this season.

Things fell apart for the Timbers (4-7-4) over a two-minute span of the second half.

First, Sallói scored for a third time this season, using an assist from Graham Zusi to find the net in the 66th minute. Then came Mabiala's own-goal two minutes later and Portland never recovered.

Roger Espinoza picked up an assist in the third minute of stoppage time on Felipe Hernández's first netter of the season.

Kendall McIntosh finished with two saves in his third start for Sporting KC. Aljaz Ivacic saved four shots for the Timbers.

The Timbers beat Sporting KC 1-0 in the season opener. Portland has never beaten SKC twice in the same season.

Sporting KC will host FC Dallas on Wednesday. Portland travels to play the Seattle Sounders on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685316179980.jpeg" alt="Sporting Kansas City midfielder Marinos Tzionis (77) and Portland Timbers defender Claudio Bravo (5) battle for the ball during the first half of the match Sunday in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Sporting Kansas City midfielder Marinos Tzionis (77) and Portland Timbers defender Claudio Bravo (5) battle for the ball during the first half of the match Sunday in Kansas City, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Dániel Sallói scored the go-ahead goal and Sporting Kansas City used an own-goal by Portland's Larrys Mabiala to provide some cushion in a 4-1 victory over the Timbers on Sunday.Portland jumped on top early on Franck Boli's third goal of the season — unassisted in the 8th minute.Erik Thommy scored the equalizer for Sporting KC (3-8-4) when he took a pass from Marinos Tzionis in the 33rd minute and notched his second goal this season.Things fell apart for the Timbers (4-7-4) over a two-minute span of the second half.First, Sallói scored for a third time this season, using an assist from Graham Zusi to find the net in the 66th minute. Then came Mabiala's own-goal two minutes later and Portland never recovered.Roger Espinoza picked up an assist in the third minute of stoppage time on Felipe Hernández's first netter of the season.Kendall McIntosh finished with two saves in his third start for Sporting KC. Aljaz Ivacic saved four shots for the Timbers.The Timbers beat Sporting KC 1-0 in the season opener. Portland has never beaten SKC twice in the same season.Sporting KC will host FC Dallas on Wednesday. Portland travels to play the Seattle Sounders on Saturday.

Sallói sparks Sporting KC to 4-1 victory over Timbers

By AVERY OSEN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Michael Massey's single with two outs in the ninth scored MJ Melendez to cap a late rally that lifted the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Sunday.

The Royals hit homers in the seventh and eighth innings to tie the game, then pulled it out in the ninth to avoid a sweep.

Melendez reached with one out on an error by first baseman Dominic Smith and scored when Massey lined a single into right off Chad Kuhl (0-3) that fell in front of Lane Thomas.

"I was trying to be selectively aggressive," Massey said. "I was just making sure I was staying in the spot I was looking and didn't help the pitcher out. I thought the outfielder was going to get it, but then luckily it had some top spin and dove on him. Luckily it fell in there for us."

Washington's Mackenzie Gore struck out a career-high 11 over seven innings and allowed one earned run on three hits and one walk. He gave up a double to the leadoff batter, then didn't allow another hit until the sixth inning.

"It was good," Gore said. "We did a lot of good things today and look, we just won the series. It's a tough loss, but we just have to keep taking it one day at a time. We put some guys away today and the last few outings I haven't done that so that was a lot of fun."

But Melendez homered off him in the seventh before Edward Olivares hit a 452-foot shot off Kuhl in the eighth to tie it.

The Nationals got on the board first with an RBI double by Ildemaro Vargas that bounced off the top of the left field wall to score Smith in the fourth inning. Vargas scored on the next at-bat when Michael Chavis hit a bloop single to center field to give Washington a 2-0 lead.

"We didn't have our late-inning guys available," Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. "That last play there is a do-or-die play and you can't let that ball bounce in front of you like that. You've got to try up and catch that and if it gets by you, it gets by you and the game is over anyway."

In his season debut, Daniel Lynch went 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on five hits with three walks and six strikeouts.

"That was the first real game that I have seen him pitch. I thought he had good intent," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "He attacked hitters, his breaking ball looked good and he threw some good changeups. More so than anything he felt really good. He was throwing the ball really well."

Scott Barlow (2-3) pitched a scoreless ninth inning and got the win.

The Royals reinstated LHP Daniel Lynch and placed LHP Josh Taylor (left shoulder impingement syndrome) on the 15-day Injured List.

The Nationals send RHP Trevor Williams to the mound on the road against the Dodgers on Monday. The Royals travel to St. Louis, but haven't announced a starter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685311769742.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey (19) is mobbed by teammates and has a cooler of water dumped on him after hitting a walkoff single in the ninth inning to defeat the Washington Nationals Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey (19) is mobbed by teammates and has a cooler of water dumped on him after hitting a walkoff single in the ninth inning to defeat the Washington Nationals Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>By AVERY OSEN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Michael Massey's single with two outs in the ninth scored MJ Melendez to cap a late rally that lifted the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Sunday.The Royals hit homers in the seventh and eighth innings to tie the game, then pulled it out in the ninth to avoid a sweep.Melendez reached with one out on an error by first baseman Dominic Smith and scored when Massey lined a single into right off Chad Kuhl (0-3) that fell in front of Lane Thomas."I was trying to be selectively aggressive," Massey said. "I was just making sure I was staying in the spot I was looking and didn't help the pitcher out. I thought the outfielder was going to get it, but then luckily it had some top spin and dove on him. Luckily it fell in there for us."Washington's Mackenzie Gore struck out a career-high 11 over seven innings and allowed one earned run on three hits and one walk. He gave up a double to the leadoff batter, then didn't allow another hit until the sixth inning."It was good," Gore said. "We did a lot of good things today and look, we just won the series. It's a tough loss, but we just have to keep taking it one day at a time. We put some guys away today and the last few outings I haven't done that so that was a lot of fun."But Melendez homered off him in the seventh before Edward Olivares hit a 452-foot shot off Kuhl in the eighth to tie it.The Nationals got on the board first with an RBI double by Ildemaro Vargas that bounced off the top of the left field wall to score Smith in the fourth inning. Vargas scored on the next at-bat when Michael Chavis hit a bloop single to center field to give Washington a 2-0 lead."We didn't have our late-inning guys available," Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. "That last play there is a do-or-die play and you can't let that ball bounce in front of you like that. You've got to try up and catch that and if it gets by you, it gets by you and the game is over anyway."In his season debut, Daniel Lynch went 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on five hits with three walks and six strikeouts."That was the first real game that I have seen him pitch. I thought he had good intent," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "He attacked hitters, his breaking ball looked good and he threw some good changeups. More so than anything he felt really good. He was throwing the ball really well."Scott Barlow (2-3) pitched a scoreless ninth inning and got the win.ROSTER MOVESThe Royals reinstated LHP Daniel Lynch and placed LHP Josh Taylor (left shoulder impingement syndrome) on the 15-day Injured List.UP NEXTThe Nationals send RHP Trevor Williams to the mound on the road against the Dodgers on Monday. The Royals travel to St. Louis, but haven't announced a starter.

Massey's walk-off single caps Royals' rally for 3-2 win over Nationals

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

The Salina Liberty closed out the regular season with a bang on Saturday, defeating the Gillette Mustangs 43-41 at the Camplex to secure the 2-seed in this year’s CIF playoffs.

After beginning the campaign 4-2, the Liberty rattled off four consecutive wins to close out the regular season, all against members of this year’s playoff field.

Salina’s regular season comes to a close at 8-2 and is good enough to earn the Liberty a first-round bye and a home game in this year’s CIF semifinals.

The other first-round bye and 1-seed went to the Omaha Beef, who will be the only undefeated team in this year’s playoffs at 10-0.

The CIF playoffs will get underway on Saturday, June 3rd when the 3-seeded Gillette Mustangs play host to the 6-seeded Southwest Kansas Storm.

That Monday will see the other quarterfinal played in Billings as the 4-seeded Outlaws welcome in the 5-seed in Sioux City.

For continuing coverage of Salina Liberty football all postseason long stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617409785202.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Liberty closed out the regular season with a bang on Saturday, defeating the Gillette Mustangs 43-41 at the Camplex to secure the 2-seed in this year’s CIF playoffs.After beginning the campaign 4-2, the Liberty rattled off four consecutive wins to close out the regular season, all against members of this year’s playoff field.Salina’s regular season comes to a close at 8-2 and is good enough to earn the Liberty a first-round bye and a home game in this year’s CIF semifinals.The other first-round bye and 1-seed went to the Omaha Beef, who will be the only undefeated team in this year’s playoffs at 10-0.The CIF playoffs will get underway on Saturday, June 3rd when the 3-seeded Gillette Mustangs play host to the 6-seeded Southwest Kansas Storm.That Monday will see the other quarterfinal played in Billings as the 4-seeded Outlaws welcome in the 5-seed in Sioux City.For continuing coverage of Salina Liberty football all postseason long stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

Liberty lock up 2-seed with road win in Gillette

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributor

In 2021, the Wamego softball team was on top of the world after winning their first 4A state championship in program history.

A season ago, the Lady Raiders looked primed to defend their crown but were dethroned in a tight semifinal at the hands of Bishop-Miege.

Coming into 2023, Wamego had a clear vision and carried out their plan with ruthless efficiency shutting down team after team en route to their second-ever 4A state title.

“There was absolutely an expectation to win this week,” Wamego head coach Luke Meyer said. “We set a lot of goals throughout the year but this was the big one. We let one slip away in the semifinals last year and they were very focused to get back here again.”

To punch their ticket to the big dance, the Lady Raiders would first have to advance through their regional, and after manhandling Baldwin 15-0, Wamego exacted their revenge on the very team that eliminated them the year prior, sending Bishop-Miege packing with a 4-2 victory.

Those two runs would be the last the Wamego would surrender all season, and in the opening round of the 4A bracket, the Lady Raiders cruised to a 4-0 win over Rock Creek on a day that saw Maya Gallagher and Peyton Hardenburger combine for 7-innings of 2-hit ball.

As it had been all season long, Wamego’s tandem of aces in the circle were more than happy to cooperate with one another to get the job done.

“Unselfish play and especially unselfish pitching is why we won the title this year,” Meyer said. “It’s always been all about the team for these girls and both of those pitchers will tell you that they want the ball but more than that they want the team to be in the best position to succeed.”

On championship Saturday it was Hardenburger’s turn to start against the reigning 4A champs, and the sophomore sensation dazzled, pitching a no-hitter in which 18 batters were retired via the strikeout.

It was an excellent day on the other side for Eudora’s Samantha Claire, as the sophomore allowed just one hit all day, but that was all it would take as the Lady Raiders escaped with a 1-0 victory.

“To see two sophomores throw a one-hitter and a no-hitter like that was some of the best pitching I’ve seen in my short time here,” he said.

Now just one win away from a return to the summit, Wamego had a decision to make and elected to ride out the right arm of Hardenburger that had gotten them through to a final with McPherson.

Even after pitching a complete game less than three hours prior, the Lady Raider sophomore stepped back into the circle, and followed up her legendary performance with something so unexpected few in attendance could put it into words.

Once again Wamego scored just one run, and once again it proved to be enough as Hardenburger went the distance in yet another no-hitter, this time striking out 11 en route to securing the 4A title.

“I don’t think it gets any better than this from a pitching standpoint,” Meyer said. “Maya was excellent on Friday and what Peyton did on Saturday, I don’t know that you can find a performance like that anywhere else in the state. They were great but when the ball was in play the defense behind them was excellent as well.”

Hardenburger threw a total of 14 innings on Saturday, recording a staggering 29 strikeouts while also failing to allow so much as a single hit against the second and third-best teams in Class 4A.

While the bats of Wamego quieted some against elite pitching on the other side, the Lady Raiders came through when it mattered most, ensuring that they would be the ones to hoist the trophy for a second time.

“I was most impressed with our resilience,” he said. “We didn’t have our best games and we didn’t hit the ball well but we had girls step up in big moments and take their opportunity to make a big play through three tough games.”

All of this was to the elation of the Wamego faithful, who turned out en masse to support the Lady Raiders in Salina, and returned to line the streets in a parade for the queens of 4A that evening.

“It was so humbling to have that many people there supporting our girls and this community has supported Wamego so much in every sport,” Meyer said. “I’m so proud to see these girls and these seniors go out on top. They set a goal and to see them achieve it and pile on in the circle, those are memories that will last a lifetime for me.”

The Lady Raider season officially comes to an end at 20-1, with another 4A trophy to add to an increasingly large cabinet in Wamego.

By TYLER HENRY Little Apple Post contributorIn 2021, the Wamego softball team was on top of the world after winning their first 4A state championship in program history.A season ago, the Lady Raiders looked primed to defend their crown but were dethroned in a tight semifinal at the hands of Bishop-Miege.Coming into 2023, Wamego had a clear vision and carried out their plan with ruthless efficiency shutting down team after team en route to their second-ever 4A state title.“There was absolutely an expectation to win this week,” Wamego head coach Luke Meyer said. “We set a lot of goals throughout the year but this was the big one. We let one slip away in the semifinals last year and they were very focused to get back here again.”To punch their ticket to the big dance, the Lady Raiders would first have to advance through their regional, and after manhandling Baldwin 15-0, Wamego exacted their revenge on the very team that eliminated them the year prior, sending Bishop-Miege packing with a 4-2 victory.Those two runs would be the last the Wamego would surrender all season, and in the opening round of the 4A bracket, the Lady Raiders cruised to a 4-0 win over Rock Creek on a day that saw Maya Gallagher and Peyton Hardenburger combine for 7-innings of 2-hit ball.As it had been all season long, Wamego’s tandem of aces in the circle were more than happy to cooperate with one another to get the job done.“Unselfish play and especially unselfish pitching is why we won the title this year,” Meyer said. “It’s always been all about the team for these girls and both of those pitchers will tell you that they want the ball but more than that they want the team to be in the best position to succeed.”On championship Saturday it was Hardenburger’s turn to start against the reigning 4A champs, and the sophomore sensation dazzled, pitching a no-hitter in which 18 batters were retired via the strikeout.It was an excellent day on the other side for Eudora’s Samantha Claire, as the sophomore allowed just one hit all day, but that was all it would take as the Lady Raiders escaped with a 1-0 victory.“To see two sophomores throw a one-hitter and a no-hitter like that was some of the best pitching I’ve seen in my short time here,” he said.Now just one win away from a return to the summit, Wamego had a decision to make and elected to ride out the right arm of Hardenburger that had gotten them through to a final with McPherson.Even after pitching a complete game less than three hours prior, the Lady Raider sophomore stepped back into the circle, and followed up her legendary performance with something so unexpected few in attendance could put it into words.Once again Wamego scored just one run, and once again it proved to be enough as Hardenburger went the distance in yet another no-hitter, this time striking out 11 en route to securing the 4A title.“I don’t think it gets any better than this from a pitching standpoint,” Meyer said. “Maya was excellent on Friday and what Peyton did on Saturday, I don’t know that you can find a performance like that anywhere else in the state. They were great but when the ball was in play the defense behind them was excellent as well.”Hardenburger threw a total of 14 innings on Saturday, recording a staggering 29 strikeouts while also failing to allow so much as a single hit against the second and third-best teams in Class 4A.While the bats of Wamego quieted some against elite pitching on the other side, the Lady Raiders came through when it mattered most, ensuring that they would be the ones to hoist the trophy for a second time.“I was most impressed with our resilience,” he said. “We didn’t have our best games and we didn’t hit the ball well but we had girls step up in big moments and take their opportunity to make a big play through three tough games.”All of this was to the elation of the Wamego faithful, who turned out en masse to support the Lady Raiders in Salina, and returned to line the streets in a parade for the queens of 4A that evening.“It was so humbling to have that many people there supporting our girls and this community has supported Wamego so much in every sport,” Meyer said. “I’m so proud to see these girls and these seniors go out on top. They set a goal and to see them achieve it and pile on in the circle, those are memories that will last a lifetime for me.”The Lady Raider season officially comes to an end at 20-1, with another 4A trophy to add to an increasingly large cabinet in Wamego.

Dominant pitching propels Wamego to a second state title

By CODY FRIESEN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — CJ Abrams hit a two-run double in Washington's four-run sixth inning, Corey Dickerson got his 1,000th career hit and the Washington Nationals defeated the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Saturday.

Dickerson sparked the Nationals' big inning with his milestone hit on an RBI double. He became the 12th player to reach the milestone in a Nationals uniform and the first since Brian Dozier in 2019.

"With how much failure there is in this game, getting 1,000 is cool," Dickerson said. "We just keep grinding as a team and trust each other which helped us rally like we did."

After Josiah Gray gave up two runs and four hits in four innings, Mason Thompson (3-2), Carl Edwards Jr., Hunter Harvey and Kyle Finnegan held the Royals scoreless — with Finnegan earning his 11th save of the season.

The Nationals have scored a combined 12 runs in the sixth inning through the first two games of the three-game series.

"The sixth inning in this series has been good for us," Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. "We got a big hit by (Dickerson) to break the ice, and then we started hitting the ball and staying in the middle of the field."

Washington's Lane Thomas hit a double in the fifth to extend his on-base streak to a career-high 23 straight games.

Brady Singer tossed five innings and gave up two runs and four hits with six strikeouts and three walks. He was sent out for the sixth with the Royals holding a 2-0 lead, but gave up back-to-back hits, including Dickerson's RBI double. Josh Taylor (1-3) came in and allowed two runs and three hits with a walk without recording an out.

"(Singer) was good, but he battled his command a little bit," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "He was pretty efficient in the early going when he worked around those walks, but he gave us five solid innings. ... I thought Brady was in control (in the sixth inning). He had the weapons to get their hitters out."

Salvador Perez hit a first-pitch slider 382 feet in the third for his 12th home run of the season to give Kansas City a 2-0 lead after Nick Pratto scored from third on a wild pitch in the first.

Kansas City dropped to a 3-14-0 in series this season and fell to 1-8-0 at Kauffman Stadium.

Royals: Kansas City requested the unconditional release waivers on INF/OF Hunter Dozier. The 31-year-old was designated for assignment on May 22.

LHP MacKenzie Gore (3-3, 3.88 ERA) will take the mound for the Nationals on Sunday. LHP Daniel Lynch will make season debut for Kansas City.

By CODY FRIESEN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — CJ Abrams hit a two-run double in Washington's four-run sixth inning, Corey Dickerson got his 1,000th career hit and the Washington Nationals defeated the Kansas City Royals 4-2 on Saturday.Dickerson sparked the Nationals' big inning with his milestone hit on an RBI double. He became the 12th player to reach the milestone in a Nationals uniform and the first since Brian Dozier in 2019."With how much failure there is in this game, getting 1,000 is cool," Dickerson said. "We just keep grinding as a team and trust each other which helped us rally like we did."After Josiah Gray gave up two runs and four hits in four innings, Mason Thompson (3-2), Carl Edwards Jr., Hunter Harvey and Kyle Finnegan held the Royals scoreless — with Finnegan earning his 11th save of the season.The Nationals have scored a combined 12 runs in the sixth inning through the first two games of the three-game series."The sixth inning in this series has been good for us," Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. "We got a big hit by (Dickerson) to break the ice, and then we started hitting the ball and staying in the middle of the field."Washington's Lane Thomas hit a double in the fifth to extend his on-base streak to a career-high 23 straight games.Brady Singer tossed five innings and gave up two runs and four hits with six strikeouts and three walks. He was sent out for the sixth with the Royals holding a 2-0 lead, but gave up back-to-back hits, including Dickerson's RBI double. Josh Taylor (1-3) came in and allowed two runs and three hits with a walk without recording an out."(Singer) was good, but he battled his command a little bit," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "He was pretty efficient in the early going when he worked around those walks, but he gave us five solid innings. ... I thought Brady was in control (in the sixth inning). He had the weapons to get their hitters out."Salvador Perez hit a first-pitch slider 382 feet in the third for his 12th home run of the season to give Kansas City a 2-0 lead after Nick Pratto scored from third on a wild pitch in the first.Kansas City dropped to a 3-14-0 in series this season and fell to 1-8-0 at Kauffman Stadium.ROSTER MOVESRoyals: Kansas City requested the unconditional release waivers on INF/OF Hunter Dozier. The 31-year-old was designated for assignment on May 22.UP NEXTLHP MacKenzie Gore (3-3, 3.88 ERA) will take the mound for the Nationals on Sunday. LHP Daniel Lynch will make season debut for Kansas City.

Abrams, Dickerson spark rally in Nats' 4-2 win over Royals

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Kurtis Byrne homered and TCU took advantage of every opportunity to defeat Kansas State 6-3 on Saturday to advance to the championship game of the Big 12 Conference Tournament.

The Horned Frogs (36-22) had only three hits but took advantage of three errors, five walks and a hit batter by the Wildcats (35-24).

TCU will play the winner of Texas Tech-Oklahoma State in Sunday's championship. The fourth-seeded Horned Frogs beat the fifth-seeded Wildcats 16-3 in the tournament opener.

Sam Stoutenborough and Ben Abeldt (2-3) combined to allow 12 hits but came up with key outs as Kansas State stranded 10 runners.

The game was tied at 3 after five innings with Raphael Pelletier of K-State and Byrne contributing solo home runs.

A hit batter, walk and Tre Richardson beating out a sacrifice bunt loaded the bases for the Horned Frogs in the sixth. Brayden Taylor scoring the winning run when Anthony Silva grounded into a double play.

Taylor drew a one-out walk in the eighth, stole second and continued to third on a throwing error by the catcher. Following an intentional walk to Cole Fontenelle, Richardson's squeeze bunt scored Taylor and Fontenelle raced around to third, scoring when the first baseman threw the ball away.

Abeldt entered the game with two outs in the sixth and went the rest of the way, scattering three hits and striking out seven.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Kurtis Byrne homered and TCU took advantage of every opportunity to defeat Kansas State 6-3 on Saturday to advance to the championship game of the Big 12 Conference Tournament.The Horned Frogs (36-22) had only three hits but took advantage of three errors, five walks and a hit batter by the Wildcats (35-24).TCU will play the winner of Texas Tech-Oklahoma State in Sunday's championship. The fourth-seeded Horned Frogs beat the fifth-seeded Wildcats 16-3 in the tournament opener.Sam Stoutenborough and Ben Abeldt (2-3) combined to allow 12 hits but came up with key outs as Kansas State stranded 10 runners.The game was tied at 3 after five innings with Raphael Pelletier of K-State and Byrne contributing solo home runs.A hit batter, walk and Tre Richardson beating out a sacrifice bunt loaded the bases for the Horned Frogs in the sixth. Brayden Taylor scoring the winning run when Anthony Silva grounded into a double play.Taylor drew a one-out walk in the eighth, stole second and continued to third on a throwing error by the catcher. Following an intentional walk to Cole Fontenelle, Richardson's squeeze bunt scored Taylor and Fontenelle raced around to third, scoring when the first baseman threw the ball away.Abeldt entered the game with two outs in the sixth and went the rest of the way, scattering three hits and striking out seven.Collin Rothermel (1-3) took the loss.

Byrne homers; TCU advances to Big 12 championship with win over K-State

With just one week remaining in the regular season, the Salina Liberty will take to the gridiron on Saturday night for a colossal matchup with the Mustangs in Gillette.

The playoff field is already set, but the two teams will enter this contest in a tie for second at 7-2, with the winner claiming the two-seed, a first-round bye, and home-field advantage for a semifinal.

Meanwhile, the loser will take the three-seed and host a quarterfinal game before likely hitting the road for a second-round matchup the following week.

At 9-0, the Omaha Beef have secured the 1-seed and home field throughout this year’s postseason, and along with the Liberty and Mustangs, will fill out a field that will feature 6-4 Billings, 5-4 Sioux City, and 3-7 SW Kansas.

“All of these games have been big with that hole that we dug ourselves in the middle of the year but this is definitely a big one for us,” Salina head coach Heron O’Neal said. “It’s always tough when you go on the road, especially against a team that’s ranked second in the league and we’ve gotta be ready to put that trip behind us and put our best foot forward on Saturday.”

Fresh off a 48-39 win over the Bandits last week, the Liberty will have to make the long trek to Gillette to get to this one, and to face a Mustang team that looks leaps and bounds better than they did a season ago.

“Looking at what Coach Walker has brought in they’ve really restocked and they’ve got good coaching up there with some Arena I legends on that staff,” O’Neal said. “You can see the coaching in the way that they play and their recruiting has been big time this year.”

In their most recent contest, a 41-38 loss at the hands of the Billings Outlaws, the Mustangs got to try out newly signed QB Aaron Aiken, who delivered three touchdown passes against his former team.

One of Aiken's biggest targets this week will be Karonce Higgins, who leads the league in almost all receiving categories, topping the charts in yards (618), and touchdowns (14).

“Aiken has only played one game in this league so it’s tough to say what he can and can’t do just yet,” he said. “He runs the gameplan the way they want and they can make big plays when they go for the home run but he can also make things happen with his legs.”

In addition to contending with the league-best offense in the CIF, the Liberty will have to find a way through a defense that allows a second-ranked 148 yards, and 38 points per game.

“All you can do is come in with a good plan and make the adjustments on both sides accordingly as the game goes on,” O’Neal said. “We have to make sure we don’t turn the ball over, that’s the main thing. We’re focusing on our side of this matchup and we know we can’t turn the ball over and expect to win against a team like this.”

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617409785202.png" alt="Salina Liberty coverage is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Salina Liberty coverage is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>With just one week remaining in the regular season, the Salina Liberty will take to the gridiron on Saturday night for a colossal matchup with the Mustangs in Gillette.The playoff field is already set, but the two teams will enter this contest in a tie for second at 7-2, with the winner claiming the two-seed, a first-round bye, and home-field advantage for a semifinal.Meanwhile, the loser will take the three-seed and host a quarterfinal game before likely hitting the road for a second-round matchup the following week.At 9-0, the Omaha Beef have secured the 1-seed and home field throughout this year’s postseason, and along with the Liberty and Mustangs, will fill out a field that will feature 6-4 Billings, 5-4 Sioux City, and 3-7 SW Kansas.“All of these games have been big with that hole that we dug ourselves in the middle of the year but this is definitely a big one for us,” Salina head coach Heron O’Neal said. “It’s always tough when you go on the road, especially against a team that’s ranked second in the league and we’ve gotta be ready to put that trip behind us and put our best foot forward on Saturday.”Fresh off a 48-39 win over the Bandits last week, the Liberty will have to make the long trek to Gillette to get to this one, and to face a Mustang team that looks leaps and bounds better than they did a season ago.“Looking at what Coach Walker has brought in they’ve really restocked and they’ve got good coaching up there with some Arena I legends on that staff,” O’Neal said. “You can see the coaching in the way that they play and their recruiting has been big time this year.”In their most recent contest, a 41-38 loss at the hands of the Billings Outlaws, the Mustangs got to try out newly signed QB Aaron Aiken, who delivered three touchdown passes against his former team.One of Aiken's biggest targets this week will be Karonce Higgins, who leads the league in almost all receiving categories, topping the charts in yards (618), and touchdowns (14).“Aiken has only played one game in this league so it’s tough to say what he can and can’t do just yet,” he said. “He runs the gameplan the way they want and they can make big plays when they go for the home run but he can also make things happen with his legs.”In addition to contending with the league-best offense in the CIF, the Liberty will have to find a way through a defense that allows a second-ranked 148 yards, and 38 points per game.“All you can do is come in with a good plan and make the adjustments on both sides accordingly as the game goes on,” O’Neal said. “We have to make sure we don’t turn the ball over, that’s the main thing. We’re focusing on our side of this matchup and we know we can’t turn the ball over and expect to win against a team like this.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Mustangs is set for 6:30 PM at the CamPlex in Gillette and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM).