Legendary Oklahoma women's basketball coach Sherri Coales says the growth of women's college basketball is something she believes can be sustained, despite the loss of players like Iowa's Caitlin Clark

Coales spoke at an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. 

Coales says while people watched the product, it wasn't just Clark that they were seeing.

"People were tuning in to see Caitlin (Clark) shoot from the logo, or they were tuning in Angel Reese get a rebound, or they tuned in to see JuJu (Watkins) break somebody's ankles, they were watching for all that but while they were watching for that they saw all these other players who will continue to fuel the collegiate game," Coales tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Coales coached the Sooners for 25 years, winning six Big 12 Championships and reaching the Final Four three times. 

Coale's says there has been a natural explosion of young girls becoming interested in basketball.

"That circle just grows like a ripple, just wider and wider and wider, so there will be an influx of little girls who are putting their hair up in a ponytail and heading to basketball camp this summer, that will continue," Coales says.

Coales says playing sports can be difficult, but difficult things in life breed confidence, and confidence is the root of success. 

"Boys, girls, whatever work you're doing, sports business, parenting, whatever it is confidence is at the root of success of all that," Coales explains. "And sports gives you a trial run and gives you a chance to fail and succeed and figure out how to handle both of them, it's not always fair but neither is life, so you get that experience and you just take what you've been exposed to and it makes you a better human."

Coales retired from coaching in 2021.  In her post coaching career, she's a speaker as well as an author. 

Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' following the St. Joseph event, a book where she tells stories about all the people who impacted her life.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008399987.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd in St. Joseph during an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd in St. Joseph during an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLegendary Oklahoma women's basketball coach Sherri Coales says the growth of women's college basketball is something she believes can be sustained, despite the loss of players like Iowa's Caitlin ClarkCoales spoke at an event hosted by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. Coales says while people watched the product, it wasn't just Clark that they were seeing."People were tuning in to see Caitlin (Clark) shoot from the logo, or they were tuning in Angel Reese get a rebound, or they tuned in to see JuJu (Watkins) break somebody's ankles, they were watching for all that but while they were watching for that they saw all these other players who will continue to fuel the collegiate game," Coales tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Coales coached the Sooners for 25 years, winning six Big 12 Championships and reaching the Final Four three times. Coale's says there has been a natural explosion of young girls becoming interested in basketball."That circle just grows like a ripple, just wider and wider and wider, so there will be an influx of little girls who are putting their hair up in a ponytail and heading to basketball camp this summer, that will continue," Coales says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008539378.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales speaks to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>Coales says playing sports can be difficult, but difficult things in life breed confidence, and confidence is the root of success. "Boys, girls, whatever work you're doing, sports business, parenting, whatever it is confidence is at the root of success of all that," Coales explains. "And sports gives you a trial run and gives you a chance to fail and succeed and figure out how to handle both of them, it's not always fair but neither is life, so you get that experience and you just take what you've been exposed to and it makes you a better human."Coales retired from coaching in 2021. In her post coaching career, she's a speaker as well as an author. Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' following the St. Joseph event, a book where she tells stories about all the people who impacted her life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715008499689.jpeg" alt="Sherri Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' after speaking to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Sherri Coales signed copies of her book 'Rooted to Rise' after speaking to a crowd at the Word of Life Church/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/Former-Oklahoma-coach-believes-womens-sports-popularity-can-be-sustained-e2jak7c" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Veteran women's basketball coach says game will continue to rise post- Clark

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a tying solo home run in the ninth inning and Nathaniel Lowe had a go-ahead RBI single in the 10th, leading the Texas Rangers to a 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

With one out in the 10th, Corey Seager singled off James McArthur (1-1) to put runners on first and third. Lowe followed with his third RBI of the series to score Leody Tavares.

David Robertson pitched a scoreless 10th that included an intentional walk to Bobby Witt Jr. with two outs to seal the win for the Rangers with his first save of the season.

Kirby Yates (3-0) earned the win by tossing two scoreless innings of relief.

It was the third straight series win for the Rangers overall and the sixth in a row against the Royals since 2021.

“The guys fought and we had some huge hits in the end with Heim and Lowe, but you have to look at the mound,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “(Jon) Gray had seven solid innings, Yates gave us a good ninth and Robertson came and shut it down. ...

"The pitching has been pretty consistent, giving us great starts, and the bullpen is doing a nice job. That is how to take series wins.”

Heim tied it at 2 in the ninth off McArthur when his shot struck the right-field foul pole for a home run. The homer snapped a season-high four-game drought for the Rangers.

“I didn’t want to chase low, so I just tried to see something up in the zone," Heim said. “Luckily, he threw me a slider that started up and I put a good swing on it, and it stayed fair.

"There is never any panic with our offense. Everyone is out there just putting together good at-bats, taking walks, hitting balls hard and good things will happen for us.”

Gray allowed two runs and seven hits with no walks and seven strikeouts in seven innings in the start for the Rangers.

Texas moved to 3-3 in rubber games this season, while Kansas City dropped to 1-5.

“It was a tough loss,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "We had a 2-0 lead going into the eighth, but a lot will be made of the last couple of innings. We did not do much in the middle innings. Credit to Gray and Yates for keeping us right where we were.”

Kansas City's Daniel Lynch tossed five innings of shutout ball in his season debut with just two hits, two walks and six strikeouts. Lynch retired 10 straight after getting out of a bases-loaded jam in the first.

Vinnie Pasquantino gave the Royals an early 2-0 lead with a run-scoring sacrifice fly in the first and an RBI double in the third. But Kansas City went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position.

Kansas City recalled Lynch for the start and optioned RHP Colin Selby to Triple-A Omaha to make room.

Kansas City will host Milwaukee for three games starting Monday night, when Cole Ragans (2-2, 3.44 ERA) will take the mound.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714960890850.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Daniel Lynch IV pitches the ball during the first inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Sunday, May 5, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Nick Tre. Smith)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Daniel Lynch IV pitches the ball during the first inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers, Sunday, May 5, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Nick Tre. Smith)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a tying solo home run in the ninth inning and Nathaniel Lowe had a go-ahead RBI single in the 10th, leading the Texas Rangers to a 3-2 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.With one out in the 10th, Corey Seager singled off James McArthur (1-1) to put runners on first and third. Lowe followed with his third RBI of the series to score Leody Tavares.David Robertson pitched a scoreless 10th that included an intentional walk to Bobby Witt Jr. with two outs to seal the win for the Rangers with his first save of the season.Kirby Yates (3-0) earned the win by tossing two scoreless innings of relief.It was the third straight series win for the Rangers overall and the sixth in a row against the Royals since 2021.“The guys fought and we had some huge hits in the end with Heim and Lowe, but you have to look at the mound,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “(Jon) Gray had seven solid innings, Yates gave us a good ninth and Robertson came and shut it down. ..."The pitching has been pretty consistent, giving us great starts, and the bullpen is doing a nice job. That is how to take series wins.”Heim tied it at 2 in the ninth off McArthur when his shot struck the right-field foul pole for a home run. The homer snapped a season-high four-game drought for the Rangers.“I didn’t want to chase low, so I just tried to see something up in the zone," Heim said. “Luckily, he threw me a slider that started up and I put a good swing on it, and it stayed fair."There is never any panic with our offense. Everyone is out there just putting together good at-bats, taking walks, hitting balls hard and good things will happen for us.”Gray allowed two runs and seven hits with no walks and seven strikeouts in seven innings in the start for the Rangers.Texas moved to 3-3 in rubber games this season, while Kansas City dropped to 1-5.“It was a tough loss,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "We had a 2-0 lead going into the eighth, but a lot will be made of the last couple of innings. We did not do much in the middle innings. Credit to Gray and Yates for keeping us right where we were.”Kansas City's Daniel Lynch tossed five innings of shutout ball in his season debut with just two hits, two walks and six strikeouts. Lynch retired 10 straight after getting out of a bases-loaded jam in the first.Vinnie Pasquantino gave the Royals an early 2-0 lead with a run-scoring sacrifice fly in the first and an RBI double in the third. But Kansas City went 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position.ROSTER MOVESKansas City recalled Lynch for the start and optioned RHP Colin Selby to Triple-A Omaha to make room.UP NEXTKansas City will host Milwaukee for three games starting Monday night, when Cole Ragans (2-2, 3.44 ERA) will take the mound.

Heim homers in the 9th and Lowe hits an RBI single in the 10th to lead Rangers past Royals 3-2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nathaniel Lowe had four hits and two RBIs, and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 15-4 on Saturday night.

Lowe went 4 for 6 one night after going hitless in four at bats in Texas' 7-1 loss. It was his first four-hit game since last July 14.

“I guess it was just my turn in the grand pendulum of the swing of baseball," Lowe said. “It was great to have so many guys contribute. We got smoked last night, so it was good to come back tonight.”

Adolis García, Evan Carter and Travis Jankowski also drove in two runs each. Carter scored on a wild pitch after a two-run triple in the third inning. Garcia extended his hitting streak to six games, and Carter had two hits to extend his hit streak to five games.

The Rangers totaled a season-high 17 hits and set a season-high in runs against the team entering the game with the highest run differential in the majors.

Texas had three three-run innings and a five-run ninth to hand Kansas City its worst loss of the season. Two-runs scored on a wild pitch by Colin Selby and a throwing error to third base on the same play to cap a three-run seventh. Joe Smith, Jankowski, Marcus Semien, Leody Taveras and Ezequiel Duran had RBIs in the ninth.

“It was good to see everyone do something to help in the cause," Texas manager Bruce Bochy said. ”We got shut down the night before the guys came out and put together great at-bats it is good for their confidence. ... Everyone did something tonight."

Dane Dunning pitched 4 2/3 innings, giving up two runs and four hits. Dunning had limited the Royals to just one hit through the first four innings.

Josh Sborz (1-0) pitched one inning of relief to get the win.

Michael Wacha (1-4) pitched a season-low 3 2/3 innings, allowing a season-high seven runs and nine hits with one walk and three strikeouts.

“Obviously looked like some missed locations tonight," Royals Manager Matt Quatraro said. "You have to tip your cap to them as well.”

Hunter Renfroe put the Royals on the board with a two-run single to left field with two outs in the fifth. Bobby Witt Jr. recorded his 11th stolen base of the season, which leads the American League.

Vinnie Pasquantino and Garrett Hampson each drove in a run, and Michael Massey had three hits to extend his hitting streak to seven games.

Royals: RHP Alec Marsh (right elbow contusion) is scheduled to make a rehab start with Triple-A Omaha on May 5. The Royals put Marsh on the 15-day injured list on April 25, making him eligible to return on May 10.

Jon Gray (1-1, 2.48 ERA) will start the series finale for Texas. Daniel Lynch IV (0-0, 0.00 ERA) will make his season debut for Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714879990370.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Wacha (52) hands the ball to manager Matt Quatraro, left, as he is taken out of the baseball game during the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, May 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Wacha (52) hands the ball to manager Matt Quatraro, left, as he is taken out of the baseball game during the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, May 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nathaniel Lowe had four hits and two RBIs, and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 15-4 on Saturday night.Lowe went 4 for 6 one night after going hitless in four at bats in Texas' 7-1 loss. It was his first four-hit game since last July 14.“I guess it was just my turn in the grand pendulum of the swing of baseball," Lowe said. “It was great to have so many guys contribute. We got smoked last night, so it was good to come back tonight.”Adolis García, Evan Carter and Travis Jankowski also drove in two runs each. Carter scored on a wild pitch after a two-run triple in the third inning. Garcia extended his hitting streak to six games, and Carter had two hits to extend his hit streak to five games.The Rangers totaled a season-high 17 hits and set a season-high in runs against the team entering the game with the highest run differential in the majors.Texas had three three-run innings and a five-run ninth to hand Kansas City its worst loss of the season. Two-runs scored on a wild pitch by Colin Selby and a throwing error to third base on the same play to cap a three-run seventh. Joe Smith, Jankowski, Marcus Semien, Leody Taveras and Ezequiel Duran had RBIs in the ninth.“It was good to see everyone do something to help in the cause," Texas manager Bruce Bochy said. ”We got shut down the night before the guys came out and put together great at-bats it is good for their confidence. ... Everyone did something tonight."Dane Dunning pitched 4 2/3 innings, giving up two runs and four hits. Dunning had limited the Royals to just one hit through the first four innings.Josh Sborz (1-0) pitched one inning of relief to get the win.Michael Wacha (1-4) pitched a season-low 3 2/3 innings, allowing a season-high seven runs and nine hits with one walk and three strikeouts.“Obviously looked like some missed locations tonight," Royals Manager Matt Quatraro said. "You have to tip your cap to them as well.”Hunter Renfroe put the Royals on the board with a two-run single to left field with two outs in the fifth. Bobby Witt Jr. recorded his 11th stolen base of the season, which leads the American League.Vinnie Pasquantino and Garrett Hampson each drove in a run, and Michael Massey had three hits to extend his hitting streak to seven games.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Alec Marsh (right elbow contusion) is scheduled to make a rehab start with Triple-A Omaha on May 5. The Royals put Marsh on the 15-day injured list on April 25, making him eligible to return on May 10.UP NEXTJon Gray (1-1, 2.48 ERA) will start the series finale for Texas. Daniel Lynch IV (0-0, 0.00 ERA) will make his season debut for Kansas City.

Lowe has 4 hits as Rangers beat Royals 15-4

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer, Brady Singer pitched six dominant innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-1 on Friday night.

Perez hit his eighth home run of the season in Kansas City's six-run seventh inning to break open what was a pitcher's duel. Kyle Isbel, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. had RBI singles before Perez gave the Royals a 7-1 lead.

“That was amazing, I hadn't seen it that special since 2021 when I hit 48 home runs and I appreciate the fans in Kansas City,” Perez said. “We're winning right now and hopefully it stays that way. I think they feel the same energy we have in the dugout.”

Prior to that, Michael Lorenzen had his best start of the season for Texas, giving up three hits and one run — on a homer by Hunter Renfroe — in six innings. He walked two and struck out three while throwing 86 pitches.

“They're an athletic team and they're going to swing,” Lorenzen said. "You just have to trust your defense and believe they're going to do a good job behind you.

Cole Winn (0-1) then gave up four runs in one-third of an inning and Jose Urena gave up two more before closing out the inning.

“I think you can attribute Cole being a little off,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “His command and everything was a little bit off tonight.”

The Royals have won three straight and seven of their last 10. The Rangers had won three of their previous four.

Singer allowed just one run and four hits while striking out eight with no walks. He hasn’t given up more than one run in five of his seven starts this season.

“I was happy to get out of the sixth there honestly,” Singer said. “I didn't want to walk anybody after the last couple outings and I just went out there and attacked the strike zone.”

The lone blemish against Singer came on an RBI single by Corey Seager that drove in Marcus Semien in the third inning.

John Schreiber (3-0) worked out of a bases-loaded jam in the seventh, striking out Semien to keep the score at 1-1 before the Royals' big inning in the bottom half.

“We had no room for error and Schreiber has been excellent,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “To get where we were in that game, we don't get there without Schreiber.”

Texas RHP Dane Dunning (3-2, 4.13 ERA) goes against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (1-3, 4.24) on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714801119572.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Vinnie Pasquantino (9) after hitting a three-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez (13) celebrates with Vinnie Pasquantino (9) after hitting a three-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers in Kansas City, Mo., Friday, May 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a three-run homer, Brady Singer pitched six dominant innings and the Kansas City Royals beat the Texas Rangers 7-1 on Friday night.Perez hit his eighth home run of the season in Kansas City's six-run seventh inning to break open what was a pitcher's duel. Kyle Isbel, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. had RBI singles before Perez gave the Royals a 7-1 lead.“That was amazing, I hadn't seen it that special since 2021 when I hit 48 home runs and I appreciate the fans in Kansas City,” Perez said. “We're winning right now and hopefully it stays that way. I think they feel the same energy we have in the dugout.”Prior to that, Michael Lorenzen had his best start of the season for Texas, giving up three hits and one run — on a homer by Hunter Renfroe — in six innings. He walked two and struck out three while throwing 86 pitches.“They're an athletic team and they're going to swing,” Lorenzen said. "You just have to trust your defense and believe they're going to do a good job behind you.Cole Winn (0-1) then gave up four runs in one-third of an inning and Jose Urena gave up two more before closing out the inning.“I think you can attribute Cole being a little off,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “His command and everything was a little bit off tonight.”The Royals have won three straight and seven of their last 10. The Rangers had won three of their previous four.Singer allowed just one run and four hits while striking out eight with no walks. He hasn’t given up more than one run in five of his seven starts this season.“I was happy to get out of the sixth there honestly,” Singer said. “I didn't want to walk anybody after the last couple outings and I just went out there and attacked the strike zone.”The lone blemish against Singer came on an RBI single by Corey Seager that drove in Marcus Semien in the third inning.John Schreiber (3-0) worked out of a bases-loaded jam in the seventh, striking out Semien to keep the score at 1-1 before the Royals' big inning in the bottom half.“We had no room for error and Schreiber has been excellent,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “To get where we were in that game, we don't get there without Schreiber.”UP NEXTTexas RHP Dane Dunning (3-2, 4.13 ERA) goes against Royals RHP Michael Wacha (1-3, 4.24) on Saturday.

Salvador Perez hits 3-run HR, Brady Singer pitches 6 dominant innings as Royals beat Rangers 7-1

St. Joseph got a big economic boost from hosting the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight and National Championship games.   

The Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph played host to eight teams from across the nation just over a month ago, the event bringing in around $1.4 million in economic impact.  

St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says a lot of numbers go into making that one big number 

"When you figure those numbers in, attendance, visitors that we know were here, overnight stays, the day trippers, the ticket price, that equates to $1.4 million of the women's basketball national championship in St. Joe for one week," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr.  

Convention and Visitors Burean Communications Director Christian Mengel says not only did several people go to the games, but they also ate local 

"I saw about 50 people from one school spilling out of Geneo's Pizza, I didn't think they opened that early and I didn't think they were opened on a Monday, but their schools alumni association just chose to rent it out and start the party early and that was on a Monday morning," Mengel says. 

Several fans packed into Civic Arena downtown during the Final Four and Championship matchups. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714752928362.jpeg" alt="Fans packed into Civic Arena downtown for the NCAA Division II Women's championship game/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission" />
 <figcaption>Fans packed into Civic Arena downtown for the NCAA Division II Women's championship game/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post St. Joseph got a big economic boost from hosting the NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight and National Championship games. The Civic Arena in downtown St. Joseph played host to eight teams from across the nation just over a month ago, the event bringing in around $1.4 million in economic impact. St. Joseph Sports Commission Director Brett Esely says a lot of numbers go into making that one big number "When you figure those numbers in, attendance, visitors that we know were here, overnight stays, the day trippers, the ticket price, that equates to $1.4 million of the women's basketball national championship in St. Joe for one week," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. Convention and Visitors Burean Communications Director Christian Mengel says not only did several people go to the games, but they also ate local "I saw about 50 people from one school spilling out of Geneo's Pizza, I didn't think they opened that early and I didn't think they were opened on a Monday, but their schools alumni association just chose to rent it out and start the party early and that was on a Monday morning," Mengel says. Several fans packed into Civic Arena downtown during the Final Four and Championship matchups. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

NCAA Division II Women's Elite Eight generates $1.4 million in economic impact

A softball tournament this weekend at St. Joseph's Heritage Park will welcome in several softball teams from around the region. 

After holding two new softball tournaments last year, the St. Joseph Sports Commission was looking to expand the format to attract more softball teams to play in the city.  

Director Brett Esely says that will happen this weekend as the Sports Commission hosts the Spring Sizzle Youth Softball Tournament 

"We hope it's warm, we hope it's dry, we're kind of doing our best rain dance, but we have 25 teams," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "This is not a national event, I would call this more of a regional event, 25 teams from the state of Missouri, the state of Kansas, we've got a couple coming down from Nebraska." 

Players aged 8 to 14 years old will take over all five fields of Heritage Park near the St. Joseph Frontier Casino on Saturday and Sunday. 

Esely says the two-day event should draw in several thousand people to St. Joseph 

"I don't think it's a stretch with 25 teams to think on Saturday down at Heritage Park we'll have 1,000 people in and out of there, minus the teams, that's the following that these teams have," Esely explains. "First and foremost, these events get off the ground with the support of our local teams." 

Esely says the backbone for events like this is local traveling teams having a desire to bring other teams here 

"We've got some local teams that have supported these events and then we've got some other folks from those local teams and just supporters of softball that have said we want to spread the word, we want to get people to come to town," Esely says.  

"And new events are hard, they really are, the dates are tough, and you have to find the right mix of teams, then when you get them here you have to show them a good experience." 

Esely says the experience is something the commission is constantly working on to put forward the best possible product.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714671902495.jpeg" alt="The St. Joseph Sports Commission will host a two day softball tournament this weekend at Heritage Park near the St. Joseph Frontier Casino.&nbsp; Several teams traveled to the city last October for the Bats and Brooms Classic/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Facebook" />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph Sports Commission will host a two day softball tournament this weekend at Heritage Park near the St. Joseph Frontier Casino.&nbsp; Several teams traveled to the city last October for the Bats and Brooms Classic/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post A softball tournament this weekend at St. Joseph's Heritage Park will welcome in several softball teams from around the region. After holding two new softball tournaments last year, the St. Joseph Sports Commission was looking to expand the format to attract more softball teams to play in the city. Director Brett Esely says that will happen this weekend as the Sports Commission hosts the Spring Sizzle Youth Softball Tournament "We hope it's warm, we hope it's dry, we're kind of doing our best rain dance, but we have 25 teams," Esely tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "This is not a national event, I would call this more of a regional event, 25 teams from the state of Missouri, the state of Kansas, we've got a couple coming down from Nebraska." Players aged 8 to 14 years old will take over all five fields of Heritage Park near the St. Joseph Frontier Casino on Saturday and Sunday. Esely says the two-day event should draw in several thousand people to St. Joseph "I don't think it's a stretch with 25 teams to think on Saturday down at Heritage Park we'll have 1,000 people in and out of there, minus the teams, that's the following that these teams have," Esely explains. "First and foremost, these events get off the ground with the support of our local teams." Esely says the backbone for events like this is local traveling teams having a desire to bring other teams here "We've got some local teams that have supported these events and then we've got some other folks from those local teams and just supporters of softball that have said we want to spread the word, we want to get people to come to town," Esely says. "And new events are hard, they really are, the dates are tough, and you have to find the right mix of teams, then when you get them here you have to show them a good experience." Esely says the experience is something the commission is constantly working on to put forward the best possible product.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714672229642.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Sports Commission Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Sports Commission Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>

St. Joseph softball tournament attracts teams from throughout region

TORONTO (AP) — Seth Lugo pitched seven strong innings to win for the fifth time in seven starts, Michael Massey hit a three-run home run and the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-1 on Wednesday.

Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits, scored once and also drove in a run as the Royals won for the fifth time in seven meetings with Toronto.

Witt also turned in a highlight defensive play,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportsKC/status/1785772790953447504">making a sliding stop and throwing from one knee</a>&nbsp;to retire Bo Bichette for the final out of the sixth inning.

Salvador Perez had an RBI single and extended his career-best streak of reaching base safely to 21 games. His 27 RBIs lead the American League.

Massey homered off right-hander Nate Pearson in the eighth, his second in two games. He finished with four RBIs.

Lugo (5-1) allowed just one hit, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s single in the first, until Toronto catcher Danny Jansen homered with two outs in the seventh. The solo blast was Jansen’s third of the season.

Lugo walked two and struck out eight. He lowered his ERA to 1.60.

Chris Stratton worked the eighth and Nick Anderson finished.

Blue Jays right-hander Chris Bassitt (2-5) didn’t allow a hit through five innings, but had his outing unravel after Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel doubled to begin the sixth.

Maikel Garcia sacrificed Isbel to third and Witt followed with a tiebreaking single through the drawn-in infield.

Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, advancing Witt to third, and Perez made it 2-0 with another base hit through the infield. Massey’s RBI groundout capped the inning.

Bassitt lost his third straight start, allowing three runs and four hits in six innings. He walked one and struck out four.

The Royals used replay review to confirm that Perez was hit by a two-out pitch in the fourth inning. Massey struck out to end the frame.

Perez started at catcher for Kansas City. He was scratched from Monday’s start behind the plate but came on as a pinch hitter. Perez started at first base Tuesday.

The Royals next take on the Rangers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

TORONTO (AP) — Seth Lugo pitched seven strong innings to win for the fifth time in seven starts, Michael Massey hit a three-run home run and the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-1 on Wednesday.Bobby Witt Jr. had two hits, scored once and also drove in a run as the Royals won for the fifth time in seven meetings with Toronto.Witt also turned in a highlight defensive play,&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportsKC/status/1785772790953447504">making a sliding stop and throwing from one knee</a>&nbsp;to retire Bo Bichette for the final out of the sixth inning.Salvador Perez had an RBI single and extended his career-best streak of reaching base safely to 21 games. His 27 RBIs lead the American League.Massey homered off right-hander Nate Pearson in the eighth, his second in two games. He finished with four RBIs.Lugo (5-1) allowed just one hit, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s single in the first, until Toronto catcher Danny Jansen homered with two outs in the seventh. The solo blast was Jansen’s third of the season.Lugo walked two and struck out eight. He lowered his ERA to 1.60.Chris Stratton worked the eighth and Nick Anderson finished.Blue Jays right-hander Chris Bassitt (2-5) didn’t allow a hit through five innings, but had his outing unravel after Royals center fielder Kyle Isbel doubled to begin the sixth.Maikel Garcia sacrificed Isbel to third and Witt followed with a tiebreaking single through the drawn-in infield.Vinnie Pasquantino doubled, advancing Witt to third, and Perez made it 2-0 with another base hit through the infield. Massey’s RBI groundout capped the inning.Bassitt lost his third straight start, allowing three runs and four hits in six innings. He walked one and struck out four.The Royals used replay review to confirm that Perez was hit by a two-out pitch in the fourth inning. Massey struck out to end the frame.Perez started at catcher for Kansas City. He was scratched from Monday’s start behind the plate but came on as a pinch hitter. Perez started at first base Tuesday.The Royals next take on the Rangers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Lugo gets 5th win in 7 starts, Massey adds 3-run HR as Royals beat Blue Jays 6-1

The Biden Administration has made sweeping changes to Title IX, many that are seen as controversial.   

Changes to Title IX by the Biden Administration overhauled previous rules set by the Trump Administration adding further protections for LGBTQ students.  

NCAA Vice President of Enforcement Jon Duncan says the issue is a complicated and controversial one 

"Other sport bodies have for many years been interested in balancing different interests around equal opportunities for people to engage in sport and have it be an open and inclusive environment," Duncan tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And then also safety concerns and privacy concerns." 

Among the controversial changes were also more rights given to alleged perpetrators of sexual abuse and harassment 

Duncan says those changes are a complex issue that the organization is working hard on figuring out 

"But all the presidents and all the institutions care deeply about that issue and want to do everything they can at the campus level, at the regional level, and at the national office level to prevent sexual assault in the first instance and to support anybody who's a survivor of that behavior," Duncan explains. 

Nearly a dozen athletes, the most notable being Riley Gaines, have come out against the NCAA and sued over its transgender policies. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714578358390.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western Craig School of Business' Linda Salfrank (at podium) leads a panel discussion featuring NCAA Vice President Jon Duncan/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western Craig School of Business' Linda Salfrank (at podium) leads a panel discussion featuring NCAA Vice President Jon Duncan/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The Biden Administration has made sweeping changes to Title IX, many that are seen as controversial. Changes to Title IX by the Biden Administration overhauled previous rules set by the Trump Administration adding further protections for LGBTQ students. NCAA Vice President of Enforcement Jon Duncan says the issue is a complicated and controversial one "Other sport bodies have for many years been interested in balancing different interests around equal opportunities for people to engage in sport and have it be an open and inclusive environment," Duncan tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And then also safety concerns and privacy concerns." Among the controversial changes were also more rights given to alleged perpetrators of sexual abuse and harassment Duncan says those changes are a complex issue that the organization is working hard on figuring out "But all the presidents and all the institutions care deeply about that issue and want to do everything they can at the campus level, at the regional level, and at the national office level to prevent sexual assault in the first instance and to support anybody who's a survivor of that behavior," Duncan explains. Nearly a dozen athletes, the most notable being Riley Gaines, have come out against the NCAA and sued over its transgender policies. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

NCAA rules chief says new Title IX rules yet to be sorted out

TORONTO (AP) — Michael Massey hit a two-run home run, Cole Ragans struck out nine in 6 2/3 innings, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 4-1 on Tuesday night to snap a three-game losing streak.

Bobby Witt Jr. reached base three times and drove in a run as the Royals improved to 17-11 in April. It’s the most victories Kansas City has had in a month since going 17-9 in June 2017.

Ragans (2-2) allowed one run and four hits. The left-hander left because of cramping in his left calf after walking consecutive batters. John Schreiber came on and retired Cavan Biggio to end the inning.

Schreiber got four outs and right-hander James McArthur finished for his seventh save in eight chances.

Blue Jays right-hander José Berríos (4-2) allowed two runs and five hits in seven innings but lost to Ragans for the second straight outing. Ragans got the win as the Royals won a rain-shortened game in Kansas City last Thursday.

Massey struck out to end Monday’s 6-5 loss, stranding the tying run at third base. On Tuesday, the second baseman homered on the second pitch he saw from Berríos in the second inning.

Toronto’s Bo Bichette hit a two-out RBI single in the sixth but Witt made it 3-1 with an RBI double off Erik Swanson in the eighth. Génesis Cabrera replaced Swanson and gave up an RBI double to Vinnie Pasquantino.

Salvador Perez started at first base for Kansas City one night after being scratched from a start behind the plate because of a sore back. Perez had a pinch hit single in the ninth inning of Monday’s 6-5 loss and was replaced by a pinch runner.

With a leadoff single in the second inning Tuesday, Perez extended his career-best streak of reaching base safely to 20 games.

Toronto’s Davis Schneider hit a one-out single in the second but Royals right fielder Hunter Renfroe threw Schneider out at second base as he tried to extend his hit. Renfroe leads the major leagues with 67 outfield assists since 2017.

George Springer started in center field for the Blue Jays. He didn’t make a single start in center in 2023.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 2;07. Coverage begins at 1:30 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708710110872.png" alt="ROYALS 24.png" />
 <figcaption>ROYALS 24.png</figcaption>
 </figure>TORONTO (AP) — Michael Massey hit a two-run home run, Cole Ragans struck out nine in 6 2/3 innings, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 4-1 on Tuesday night to snap a three-game losing streak.Bobby Witt Jr. reached base three times and drove in a run as the Royals improved to 17-11 in April. It’s the most victories Kansas City has had in a month since going 17-9 in June 2017.Ragans (2-2) allowed one run and four hits. The left-hander left because of cramping in his left calf after walking consecutive batters. John Schreiber came on and retired Cavan Biggio to end the inning.Schreiber got four outs and right-hander James McArthur finished for his seventh save in eight chances.Blue Jays right-hander José Berríos (4-2) allowed two runs and five hits in seven innings but lost to Ragans for the second straight outing. Ragans got the win as the Royals won a rain-shortened game in Kansas City last Thursday.Massey struck out to end Monday’s 6-5 loss, stranding the tying run at third base. On Tuesday, the second baseman homered on the second pitch he saw from Berríos in the second inning.Toronto’s Bo Bichette hit a two-out RBI single in the sixth but Witt made it 3-1 with an RBI double off Erik Swanson in the eighth. Génesis Cabrera replaced Swanson and gave up an RBI double to Vinnie Pasquantino.Salvador Perez started at first base for Kansas City one night after being scratched from a start behind the plate because of a sore back. Perez had a pinch hit single in the ninth inning of Monday’s 6-5 loss and was replaced by a pinch runner.With a leadoff single in the second inning Tuesday, Perez extended his career-best streak of reaching base safely to 20 games.Toronto’s Davis Schneider hit a one-out single in the second but Royals right fielder Hunter Renfroe threw Schneider out at second base as he tried to extend his hit. Renfroe leads the major leagues with 67 outfield assists since 2017.George Springer started in center field for the Blue Jays. He didn’t make a single start in center in 2023.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 2;07. Coverage begins at 1:30 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Massey hits 2-run HR, Ragans fans 9 as Royals snap 3-game losing streak, beat Blue Jays 4-1

St. Joseph and Missouri Western State University will be the home for MSHSAA state football championship games over the next few years.

The MSHSAA Board of Directors this month voted to approve St. Joseph as the host city for the Missouri 8-man championship game in 2024. Spratt Stadium will then host the state title games for all classes from 2025-28.

Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, worked in conjunction with Western to make this a reality. He says St. Joseph is a great fit with its facilities, community engagement and participation.

"It's exciting," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "Any time we can bring an event of this magnitude to St. Joseph and Buchanan County, we need to look into it and make it possible. I also think we have a great reputation for hosting championship events, which is a big feather in the cap of our community."

The 11-man state title games will still be at Faurot Field in Columbia this fall.

St. Joseph first received the bid packet for hosting the 8-man title game last October. MSHSAA officials then had a visit to the MWSU campus in January.

From there, both parties expressed interest in having St. Joseph host all of the state football title games, beginning in 2025. The St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with the University, submitted the bid for all the games on April 1 and officially got approval about two weeks after that.

Mizzou has hosted all of the state football championships since 2016. St. Joseph and Missouri Western previously hosted the 8-man championship from 1998-2007.

 Missouri Western’s football program already gets lots of publicity, as the facilities are used to host Kansas City Chiefs training camp every year since 2010.

Colin McQuillan is the special teams coach at Western. A Wathena, KS native and former coach at Union Star, McQuillan says bringing these games to Spratt will no doubt be an added bonus for the program.

"Recruiting, admissions and people being able to check out Missouri Western and see what's available and going on here," he said. "Football wise, it's going to be awesome in terms of recruiting, but getting more football fans in the stands is going to be awesome for the community."

McQuillan helps spearhead both 8-man and 11-man football camps at Spratt Stadium in the summer.

He acknowledges St. Joseph isn’t exactly the most central location for this, but he’s hopeful that teams will see why St. Joseph is such a great host, once the teams get to the campus.

"I know the St. Louis schools won't like the travel as much," McQuillan noted, "but once they get here, they're going to realize that the atmosphere is going to be awesome. The venue and everything that's around it is going to be very, very successful."

For nearly 30 years, state football championships in Missouri had either been held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, or at Mizzou. Faurot Field has been the host since 2016.

Esely says nowadays, bigger cities have been less eager to host state high school championship events. He believes Spratt Stadium will be the perfect atmosphere for state football, because of the facility and also the region’s overall interest in the sport.

"You don't have to play (in Columbia or St. Louis) to create a great championship experience," Esely said. "Frankly, when I think of Spratt Stadium and 7,200 fans packed in there tight, with the bells and whistles that facility has...I've been a part of some really cool moments there and I look forward to a lot more cool moments moving forward."

The 10,000-seat stadium boasts a 2,500 square foot videoboard and a synthetic turf playing surface.

"The venue speaks for itself. It's the right size. It's got the bells and whistles, the logistics, the infrastructure. The other thing I think that's great to boast, especially to a high school student is, 'It's on a college campus, and ya know, the Chiefs train here in the summertime.'"

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693546578918.jpeg" alt="Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph will be the home of all state football championship games in Missouri from 2025-28. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph will be the home of all state football championship games in Missouri from 2025-28. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph and Missouri Western State University will be the home for MSHSAA state football championship games over the next few years.The MSHSAA Board of Directors this month voted to approve St. Joseph as the host city for the Missouri 8-man championship game in 2024. Spratt Stadium will then host the state title games for all classes from 2025-28.Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, worked in conjunction with Western to make this a reality. He says St. Joseph is a great fit with its facilities, community engagement and participation."It's exciting," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "Any time we can bring an event of this magnitude to St. Joseph and Buchanan County, we need to look into it and make it possible. I also think we have a great reputation for hosting championship events, which is a big feather in the cap of our community."The 11-man state title games will still be at Faurot Field in Columbia this fall.St. Joseph first received the bid packet for hosting the 8-man title game last October. MSHSAA officials then had a visit to the MWSU campus in January.From there, both parties expressed interest in having St. Joseph host all of the state football title games, beginning in 2025. The St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with the University, submitted the bid for all the games on April 1 and officially got approval about two weeks after that.Mizzou has hosted all of the state football championships since 2016. St. Joseph and Missouri Western previously hosted the 8-man championship from 1998-2007. Missouri Western’s football program already gets lots of publicity, as the facilities are used to host Kansas City Chiefs training camp every year since 2010.Colin McQuillan is the special teams coach at Western. A Wathena, KS native and former coach at Union Star, McQuillan says bringing these games to Spratt will no doubt be an added bonus for the program."Recruiting, admissions and people being able to check out Missouri Western and see what's available and going on here," he said. "Football wise, it's going to be awesome in terms of recruiting, but getting more football fans in the stands is going to be awesome for the community."McQuillan helps spearhead both 8-man and 11-man football camps at Spratt Stadium in the summer.He acknowledges St. Joseph isn’t exactly the most central location for this, but he’s hopeful that teams will see why St. Joseph is such a great host, once the teams get to the campus."I know the St. Louis schools won't like the travel as much," McQuillan noted, "but once they get here, they're going to realize that the atmosphere is going to be awesome. The venue and everything that's around it is going to be very, very successful."For nearly 30 years, state football championships in Missouri had either been held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, or at Mizzou. Faurot Field has been the host since 2016.Esely says nowadays, bigger cities have been less eager to host state high school championship events. He believes Spratt Stadium will be the perfect atmosphere for state football, because of the facility and also the region’s overall interest in the sport."You don't have to play (in Columbia or St. Louis) to create a great championship experience," Esely said. "Frankly, when I think of Spratt Stadium and 7,200 fans packed in there tight, with the bells and whistles that facility has...I've been a part of some really cool moments there and I look forward to a lot more cool moments moving forward."The 10,000-seat stadium boasts a 2,500 square foot videoboard and a synthetic turf playing surface."The venue speaks for itself. It's the right size. It's got the bells and whistles, the logistics, the infrastructure. The other thing I think that's great to boast, especially to a high school student is, 'It's on a college campus, and ya know, the Chiefs train here in the summertime.'"Interviews<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Brett-Esely---43024-e2j3fne/a-ab7l6fu" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Colin-McQuillan---MWSU-e2j3fph/a-ab7l6np" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631269551325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692413228096.jpeg" alt="Spratt Stadium plays hosts to a couple of high school events already, including the St. Joseph city jamboree and the Missouri 8-man all-star game. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Spratt Stadium plays hosts to a couple of high school events already, including the St. Joseph city jamboree and the Missouri 8-man all-star game. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Spratt Stadium to host Missouri 8-man state title in 2024, all classes in 2025-28

DETROIT (AP) — Wenceel Pérez hit a two-run drive for his first major league homer, and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 on Sunday.

“He hit one to the track last night,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “I guess he did a couple extra pushups this morning.”

Jake Rogers also homered for the Tigers, who have won five of seven. It was Detroit's 10th come-from-behind win of the season.

The Royals have lost two in a row after a four-game winning streak.

“I don't think we drove a ball after the first inning until maybe the seventh,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We couldn't square them up.”

Detroit left-hander Tarik Skubal (4-0) pitched seven innings of one-run ball.

“He gave up a seeing-eye double and a two-strike base hit in the first, but he got another gear after that,” Hinch said. “That's what you expect from a guy who is going to anchor your rotation.”

Skubal struck out six while improving to 2-7 with a 4.65 ERA in 12 career games against the Royals.

“We knew coming in it was going to be a challenge. He's one of the best pitchers in the league,” Quatraro said. “Upper-90s velocity, location, plus changeup, curveball — you name it.”

Jason Foley pitched the ninth for his ninth save.

Royals right-hander Michael Wacha (1-3) permitted four runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Kansas City took a 1-0 lead on Bobby Witt Jr.'s RBI single in the first, but Pérez put Detroit in front with a drive to right in the bottom half.

“As soon as I hit it, I knew it was gone,” said Pérez, who is hitting .286 since making his major league debut on April 8. “And when we give (Skubal) a lead, the game is done. We know he's going to do the job.”

The Tigers made it 3-1 in the second when Rogers singled, took third on Parker Meadows' double and scored on Riley Greene's sacrifice fly.

Rogers added his second homer of the season in the sixth, and Skubal stranded runners on first and third in the seventh.

“We were probably a little fastball heavy early in the game, but then he was really dominant with the changeup,” said Rogers, who has caught all of Skubal's starts this season.

Kansas City's Salvador Perez walked in the ninth, extending his on-base streak to 18 games.

Royals: Start a three-game series Monday in Toronto. Kansas City is expected to call up RHP Jonathan Bowlan (2024 debut) from Triple-A Omaha to face RHP Yariel Rodriguez (0-1, 3.86 ERA).&nbsp; Pregame is at 5:30 with first pitch at 6:07 on 680 KFEQ

DETROIT (AP) — Wenceel Pérez hit a two-run drive for his first major league homer, and the Detroit Tigers beat the Kansas City Royals 4-1 on Sunday.“He hit one to the track last night,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “I guess he did a couple extra pushups this morning.”Jake Rogers also homered for the Tigers, who have won five of seven. It was Detroit's 10th come-from-behind win of the season.The Royals have lost two in a row after a four-game winning streak.“I don't think we drove a ball after the first inning until maybe the seventh,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We couldn't square them up.”Detroit left-hander Tarik Skubal (4-0) pitched seven innings of one-run ball.“He gave up a seeing-eye double and a two-strike base hit in the first, but he got another gear after that,” Hinch said. “That's what you expect from a guy who is going to anchor your rotation.”Skubal struck out six while improving to 2-7 with a 4.65 ERA in 12 career games against the Royals.“We knew coming in it was going to be a challenge. He's one of the best pitchers in the league,” Quatraro said. “Upper-90s velocity, location, plus changeup, curveball — you name it.”Jason Foley pitched the ninth for his ninth save.Royals right-hander Michael Wacha (1-3) permitted four runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings.Kansas City took a 1-0 lead on Bobby Witt Jr.'s RBI single in the first, but Pérez put Detroit in front with a drive to right in the bottom half.“As soon as I hit it, I knew it was gone,” said Pérez, who is hitting .286 since making his major league debut on April 8. “And when we give (Skubal) a lead, the game is done. We know he's going to do the job.”The Tigers made it 3-1 in the second when Rogers singled, took third on Parker Meadows' double and scored on Riley Greene's sacrifice fly.Rogers added his second homer of the season in the sixth, and Skubal stranded runners on first and third in the seventh.“We were probably a little fastball heavy early in the game, but then he was really dominant with the changeup,” said Rogers, who has caught all of Skubal's starts this season.Kansas City's Salvador Perez walked in the ninth, extending his on-base streak to 18 games.UP NEXTRoyals: Start a three-game series Monday in Toronto. Kansas City is expected to call up RHP Jonathan Bowlan (2024 debut) from Triple-A Omaha to face RHP Yariel Rodriguez (0-1, 3.86 ERA).&nbsp; Pregame is at 5:30 with first pitch at 6:07 on 680 KFEQ

Wenceel Pérez hits a 2-run drive for 1st big league homer as the Tigers beat the Royals 4-1

DETROIT (AP) — Matt Vierling hit a three-run homer to highlight Detroit's five-run seventh inning and the Tigers beat Kansas City 6-5 Saturday night, ending the Royals' four-game winning streak.

“When I hit it, I didn't think it was going out,” said Vierling, whose 111-mph line drive had a 14-degree launch angle. “That's a big comeback win, so I was fired up.”

Trailing 3-1, Detroit rallied against Chris Stratton (2-2) in the seventh. After Jake Rogers walked, Riley Greene and Mark Canha singled, driving in Rogers.

Wenceel Perez flew out to the wall in right, allowing Greene to take third, and Kerry Carpenter tied the game with a base hit. After Spencer Torkelson popped out, Vierling lined Stratton's 1-2 sinker over the left-field fence to put the Tigers up 6-3.

“I left pitches over the middle,” Stratton said. “They are big league hitters and they did exactly what they are supposed to do.”

The Royals bullpen came into the game with a 2.12 ERA in its last 21 innings.

“Stratton's going to pitch big innings for us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Sometimes during those high-leverage situations, it doesn't go your way, but he's done this before and he'll bounce back.”

The Royals scored twice in the ninth off Tigers closer Jason Foley, but Vinnie Pasquatino flew out to deep center to end the game.

“I threw a four-seamer up and got him,” Foley said. “He's a really good hitter, so it felt great to get him out.”

The Tigers won despite four infield errors, two by Javier Báez.

“We can't keep winning games like that,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “The fight in this team is really good, but this is unsustainable. You give them extra outs, and then Foley is looking at (Bobby) Witt Jr. and Pasquatino in the ninth inning.”

Alex Faedo (2-1) got the win with two innings of relief of starter Casey Mize, who allowed three runs, two earned, in five innings.

Royals starter Brady Singer allowed one run in five innings.

The Royals only needed four batters to take a two-run lead. Maikel Garcia and Witt Jr. started the game with singles, with Garcia moving to third. After Witt stole second, Pasquatino made it 1-0 with a RBI groundout, and Salvador Perez followed with an RBI single. The base hit extended Perez's on-base streak to 17 games, matching his career high.

Kansas City made it 3-0 in the second with a pair of errors setting up Garcia's RBI single.

The Tigers got a run back in the bottom of the inning, and could have had more. Colt Keith walked and scored on Zach McKinstry's triple, but Singer got Báez and Rogers to ground out before striking out Greene to strand the runner.

The teams finish the weekend series on Sunday with Tigers' ace LHP Tarik Skubal (3-0, 1.82 ERA) facing RHP Michael Wacha (1-2, 3.81).&nbsp; Pregame at noon and first pitch at 12:40 on 680 KFEQ.

DETROIT (AP) — Matt Vierling hit a three-run homer to highlight Detroit's five-run seventh inning and the Tigers beat Kansas City 6-5 Saturday night, ending the Royals' four-game winning streak.“When I hit it, I didn't think it was going out,” said Vierling, whose 111-mph line drive had a 14-degree launch angle. “That's a big comeback win, so I was fired up.”Trailing 3-1, Detroit rallied against Chris Stratton (2-2) in the seventh. After Jake Rogers walked, Riley Greene and Mark Canha singled, driving in Rogers.Wenceel Perez flew out to the wall in right, allowing Greene to take third, and Kerry Carpenter tied the game with a base hit. After Spencer Torkelson popped out, Vierling lined Stratton's 1-2 sinker over the left-field fence to put the Tigers up 6-3.“I left pitches over the middle,” Stratton said. “They are big league hitters and they did exactly what they are supposed to do.”The Royals bullpen came into the game with a 2.12 ERA in its last 21 innings.“Stratton's going to pitch big innings for us,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Sometimes during those high-leverage situations, it doesn't go your way, but he's done this before and he'll bounce back.”The Royals scored twice in the ninth off Tigers closer Jason Foley, but Vinnie Pasquatino flew out to deep center to end the game.“I threw a four-seamer up and got him,” Foley said. “He's a really good hitter, so it felt great to get him out.”The Tigers won despite four infield errors, two by Javier Báez.“We can't keep winning games like that,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “The fight in this team is really good, but this is unsustainable. You give them extra outs, and then Foley is looking at (Bobby) Witt Jr. and Pasquatino in the ninth inning.”Alex Faedo (2-1) got the win with two innings of relief of starter Casey Mize, who allowed three runs, two earned, in five innings.Royals starter Brady Singer allowed one run in five innings.The Royals only needed four batters to take a two-run lead. Maikel Garcia and Witt Jr. started the game with singles, with Garcia moving to third. After Witt stole second, Pasquatino made it 1-0 with a RBI groundout, and Salvador Perez followed with an RBI single. The base hit extended Perez's on-base streak to 17 games, matching his career high.Kansas City made it 3-0 in the second with a pair of errors setting up Garcia's RBI single.The Tigers got a run back in the bottom of the inning, and could have had more. Colt Keith walked and scored on Zach McKinstry's triple, but Singer got Báez and Rogers to ground out before striking out Greene to strand the runner.UP NEXTThe teams finish the weekend series on Sunday with Tigers' ace LHP Tarik Skubal (3-0, 1.82 ERA) facing RHP Michael Wacha (1-2, 3.81).&nbsp; Pregame at noon and first pitch at 12:40 on 680 KFEQ.

Matt Vierling's 3-run homer highlights 5-run outburst in 7th inning as Tigers beat Royals 6-5

The Kansas City Chiefs moved up in the draft for a second night in a row, moving up one spot on to select BYU offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia with the 63rd pick in the NFL Draft.  

The Chiefs swapped second round picks with the San Fransisco 49ers, also trading fifth round No. 173 to San Fransisco in exchange for sixth round No. 211. 

Suamataia was an All-Big 12 second team offensive lineman last year at BYU.  Since 2022, he has allowed just two sacks and had double digit starts on both the left and right side of the line.  

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach said they would look for someone in the draft to provide competition for Wanya Morris, who was picked in the third-round last year, for the starting left tackle position.  

Sumataia will help shore up an offensive tackle position that was 31st last year in run block win rate, coming in ahead of just the New York Jets.  He will help fill a hole left by veteran tackle Donovan Smith who is a free agent.  

The Chiefs had no picks in the third round and will have four picks on the final day of the draft, No. 133 in the fourth, No. 159 in the fifth, No. 211 in the sixth, and No. 248 in the seventh.

Mizzou's Ennis Rakestraw headed to Detroit, Ty'Ron Hopper to Green Bay

The Detroit Lions selected Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr with the No. 61 pick in the second round on Friday.  

Rakestraw played in nine games, starting eight, as a junior at Mizzou last season as a redshirt junior, with four pass breakups and 35 total tackles.  He was targeted just 28 times in those nine games.  

Another Tiger, linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper will join Rakestraw in the NFC North, after he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers with the No. 91 pick in the third round.  

Hopper led Missouri last season with 55 tackles, before an ankle injury sidelined him from the final two games of the season.  He earned second team All-SEC honors last year and was also a finalist for the Butkus Award given to the nation's top linebacker

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191844604.jpeg" alt="Kingsley Suamataia/ Photo courtesy of BYU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kingsley Suamataia/ Photo courtesy of BYU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs moved up in the draft for a second night in a row, moving up one spot on to select BYU offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia with the 63rd pick in the NFL Draft. The Chiefs swapped second round picks with the San Fransisco 49ers, also trading fifth round No. 173 to San Fransisco in exchange for sixth round No. 211. Suamataia was an All-Big 12 second team offensive lineman last year at BYU. Since 2022, he has allowed just two sacks and had double digit starts on both the left and right side of the line. Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach said they would look for someone in the draft to provide competition for Wanya Morris, who was picked in the third-round last year, for the starting left tackle position. Sumataia will help shore up an offensive tackle position that was 31st last year in run block win rate, coming in ahead of just the New York Jets. He will help fill a hole left by veteran tackle Donovan Smith who is a free agent. The Chiefs had no picks in the third round and will have four picks on the final day of the draft, No. 133 in the fourth, No. 159 in the fifth, No. 211 in the sixth, and No. 248 in the seventh.Mizzou's Ennis Rakestraw headed to Detroit, Ty'Ron Hopper to Green Bay<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191810292.jpeg" alt="Ennis Rakestraw Jr./ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ennis Rakestraw Jr./ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Detroit Lions selected Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr with the No. 61 pick in the second round on Friday. Rakestraw played in nine games, starting eight, as a junior at Mizzou last season as a redshirt junior, with four pass breakups and 35 total tackles. He was targeted just 28 times in those nine games. Another Tiger, linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper will join Rakestraw in the NFC North, after he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers with the No. 91 pick in the third round. Hopper led Missouri last season with 55 tackles, before an ankle injury sidelined him from the final two games of the season. He earned second team All-SEC honors last year and was also a finalist for the Butkus Award given to the nation's top linebacker<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191757860.jpeg" alt="Ty'Ron Hopper (8)/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ty'Ron Hopper (8)/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>K State's Ben Sinnott to Washington, Cooper Beebe to Dallas<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191676101.jpeg" alt="Ben Sinnott/Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ben Sinnott/Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Washington Commanders selected Kansas State tight End Ben Sinnott with No. 53 in the second round on Friday. Sinnott was a four-year contributor for the Wildcats, totaling 1,138 yards and 10 touchdowns on 82 catches. He was a Third Team All-American and First Team Big 12 selection. He'll look to make an impact right away for the Commanders after veteran tight end Logan Thomas retired, helping fill a major hole on the Washington depth chart. Joining Sinnott in the NFC East will be offensive guard Cooper Beebe who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round at No. 73. Beebe was a First Team All-Big 12 selection last year. He was also named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year for a second year in a row, becoming the first K State offensive lineman to win the award in back-to-back years since Dalton Risner. Beebe will once again have the chance to block for running back Deuce Vaughn, who was a Cowboys pick last year in the fifth round.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714185543713.png" alt="Cooper Beebe/ Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Cooper Beebe/ Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni drafted by 49ersThe San Fransisco 49ers selected Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni in the third round Friday with pick No. 86. Puni was a standout at Central Missouri before transferring to Kansas in 2022 where he earned honors across the offensive line, including honorable mention All-Big 12 in 2022 at left guard, and first team All-Big 12 last year at left tackle. He was also named a finalist for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year The Super Bowl runner ups adding Puni gives versatility across the offensive line. In addition to starting games at both tackle positions and left guard, Puni took snaps at center in the Senior Bowl. The right side of the line has been weak for San Fransisco, providing opportunity for Puni to be named the week one starting right guard, but could also get looks at right tackle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714186526313.png" alt="Dominick Puni/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Dominick Puni/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>