The Kansas City Chiefs traded pick 31 to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for pick 32, and chose Ohio State offensive lineman Josh Simmons as the final pick of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.&nbsp;

Simmons was projected as a potential top 10 pick coming into this year, before suffering a season ending injury against Oregon.&nbsp; Regardless of the injury, Simmons was one of the more popular mocked players to get drafted by the Chiefs to help solidify their offensive line.&nbsp;

Simmons spent the past two seasons as the Buckeyes’ starting left tackle after transferring from San Diego State, where he played on the opposite end of the line.&nbsp; He was limited to just six games during Ohio State’s national championship-winning season due to a knee injury suffered in his team’s 32-31 loss to Oregon in October.

Simmons, however, participated in the Buckeyes’ pro day and posted 33 reps on the bench press, which would’ve been tied for the most at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Head Coach Andy Reid says Simmons could have been a top five or ten pick had he been healthy.

"We felt was a phenomenal athlete...would have been a higher pick if he would not have been hurt," Reid says.

Reid also adds it's unknown if Simmons will participate in the rookie minicamp, but he should be available soon after.

"He will definitely be ready for training camp," Reid said. "He'll be able to do stuff before then."

Kansas City signed Jaylon Moore this offseason to help out at the left tackle position, so Simmons is most likely to compete with him if he is able to play this season after the knee injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moore was the backup to Trent Williams in San Francisco and looked solid in a handful of late-season starts for the 49ers. But the small sample size doesn't engender confidence for some fans, and it's hard to know the level of belief in Moore from the team's front office.

The Chiefs have seven additional picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, including three picks on Day 2 on Friday. In round two, Kansas City holds the 63rd overall pick, and in round three, the franchise holds both the 66th overall pick and the 95th overall pick.

Additionally, the Chiefs hold the 133rd overall pick in the fourth round, as well as the 164th pick from the Eagles. They also hold three picks in the seventh round of the draft. Kansas City holds the 226th overall pick, the 251st overall pick, and the 257th overall pick in the back half of the NFL Draft.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745552794392.jpeg" alt="The Kansas City Chiefs selected Ohio State OL Josh Simmons with the 32nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft/&nbsp;Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas City Chiefs selected Ohio State OL Josh Simmons with the 32nd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft/&nbsp;Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs traded pick 31 to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for pick 32, and chose Ohio State offensive lineman Josh Simmons as the final pick of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.&nbsp;Simmons was projected as a potential top 10 pick coming into this year, before suffering a season ending injury against Oregon.&nbsp; Regardless of the injury, Simmons was one of the more popular mocked players to get drafted by the Chiefs to help solidify their offensive line.&nbsp;Simmons spent the past two seasons as the Buckeyes’ starting left tackle after transferring from San Diego State, where he played on the opposite end of the line.&nbsp; He was limited to just six games during Ohio State’s national championship-winning season due to a knee injury suffered in his team’s 32-31 loss to Oregon in October.Simmons, however, participated in the Buckeyes’ pro day and posted 33 reps on the bench press, which would’ve been tied for the most at the NFL Scouting Combine.Head Coach Andy Reid says Simmons could have been a top five or ten pick had he been healthy."We felt was a phenomenal athlete...would have been a higher pick if he would not have been hurt," Reid says.Reid also adds it's unknown if Simmons will participate in the rookie minicamp, but he should be available soon after."He will definitely be ready for training camp," Reid said. "He'll be able to do stuff before then."Kansas City signed Jaylon Moore this offseason to help out at the left tackle position, so Simmons is most likely to compete with him if he is able to play this season after the knee injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;Moore was the backup to Trent Williams in San Francisco and looked solid in a handful of late-season starts for the 49ers. But the small sample size doesn't engender confidence for some fans, and it's hard to know the level of belief in Moore from the team's front office.The Chiefs have seven additional picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, including three picks on Day 2 on Friday. In round two, Kansas City holds the 63rd overall pick, and in round three, the franchise holds both the 66th overall pick and the 95th overall pick.Additionally, the Chiefs hold the 133rd overall pick in the fourth round, as well as the 164th pick from the Eagles. They also hold three picks in the seventh round of the draft. Kansas City holds the 226th overall pick, the 251st overall pick, and the 257th overall pick in the back half of the NFL Draft.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chiefs close out first round of NFL Draft by selecting Ohio State OL Josh Simmons

For the second time in as many years, the New York Jets used their first round pick to bolster their offensive line and looked to the University of Missouri to do it.&nbsp;

Mizzou offensive lineman Armand Membou was selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night by the Jets.&nbsp; Being picked seventh overall ties Membou for the second highest pick in the draft, tied with Aldon Smith who was drafted seventh overall by the San Fransisco 49ers in 2011.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Measuring in at a powerful albeit slightly undersized 6-foot-4 and 332 pounds with 33-and-a-half inch arms at the NFL Combine, Membou is an athletic freak, running a 4.91 40-yard dash with a 34-inch vertical. What he may lack in height, Membou makes up for with quickness, agility, and excellent hand usage.

While the Jets will likely say there is an open competition, it’s fair to assume that the team will want to plug Membou in at right tackle right away. With Tyron Smith retiring and Morgan Moses gone, it’s time for a youth movement at both tackle spots — and last year’s first-round pick Olu Fashanu on the left and Membou on the right could make up a very talented pair of bookend tackles for years to come in New York.

On paper, a starting offensive line of Fashanu, John Simpson, Joe Tippmann, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and Membou, from left to right, would give the Jets a very talented, and relatively young, offensive line, which could be exactly what the doctor ordered for Justin Fields as he learns a new offense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745546521698.jpeg" alt="Missouri offensive lineman Armand Membou was selected 7th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.&nbsp; At 7th overall, Membou is tied for the second highest draft pick in Mizzou history/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Missouri offensive lineman Armand Membou was selected 7th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.&nbsp; At 7th overall, Membou is tied for the second highest draft pick in Mizzou history/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor the second time in as many years, the New York Jets used their first round pick to bolster their offensive line and looked to the University of Missouri to do it.&nbsp;Mizzou offensive lineman Armand Membou was selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night by the Jets.&nbsp; Being picked seventh overall ties Membou for the second highest pick in the draft, tied with Aldon Smith who was drafted seventh overall by the San Fransisco 49ers in 2011.&nbsp;&nbsp;Measuring in at a powerful albeit slightly undersized 6-foot-4 and 332 pounds with 33-and-a-half inch arms at the NFL Combine, Membou is an athletic freak, running a 4.91 40-yard dash with a 34-inch vertical. What he may lack in height, Membou makes up for with quickness, agility, and excellent hand usage.While the Jets will likely say there is an open competition, it’s fair to assume that the team will want to plug Membou in at right tackle right away. With Tyron Smith retiring and Morgan Moses gone, it’s time for a youth movement at both tackle spots — and last year’s first-round pick Olu Fashanu on the left and Membou on the right could make up a very talented pair of bookend tackles for years to come in New York.On paper, a starting offensive line of Fashanu, John Simpson, Joe Tippmann, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and Membou, from left to right, would give the Jets a very talented, and relatively young, offensive line, which could be exactly what the doctor ordered for Justin Fields as he learns a new offense.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Mizzou OL Armand Membou selected 7th overall by New York Jets

The Kansas City Royals achieved their first series sweep of the season, beating the Colorado Rockies in both games of Thursday's doubleheader, winning game one 7-4 and game two 6-2.

In game one, after the Rockies took a quick 1-0 lead in the top half of the first, Hunter Goodman singling to score Brenton Doyle, the Royals snagged the lead back in the bottom half of the inning.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia doubled to open the inning and Bobby Witt Jr was hit by a pitch, before Salvador Perez drove both runners in with a double for the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colorado tied the game up in the second inning, a solo home run by Jordan Beck, before taking the lead once again in the third inning with another home run, this time a two run blast from Goodman.&nbsp; But the Royals tied up the game in the bottom of the third, Perez hitting his second double of the game then scoring on a single by Michael Massey.&nbsp; Massey came home on a single from Drew Waters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Starting pitcher Cole Ragans exited the game to start the fourth inning, with what the Royals later reported was groin tightness, making way for Angel Zerpa on the mound.&nbsp; Zerpa gave up the final hit for the Rockies in the inning, and also walked one in the fifth which would be the final baserunners of the game.&nbsp;

The Royals took the lead back for good in the bottom of the fifth inning.&nbsp; Rockies starter&nbsp;Germán Márquez issued back to back walks to Perez and Cavan Biggio.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jake Bird came on in relief and retired Massey and Hunter Renfroe, but hit Waters with a pitch, before Kyle Isbel singled to drive in both Perez and Biggio.&nbsp; Isbel also drove in Tyler Tolbert in the seventh inning with a single for the final Kansas City run of the game.&nbsp;

Zerpa earned the win in game one, now 1-0 on the season, pitching two innings and giving up one hit and walking one, also striking out one.&nbsp; Carlos&nbsp;Estévez earned his sixth save.&nbsp; Garcia (2-5), Perez (2-4, 2 RBI's), Waters (2-3, 1 RBI), Isbel (2-4, 3 RBI's), and Renfroe (2-3) led the way hitting in the opener on the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr also had a hit, extending his hitting streak to 15 games.&nbsp;

In game two, the Royals jumped out to a larger lead, scoring five runs in the first five innings.&nbsp; Perez continued his hot day with a double in the second inning, then scored on a sacrifice fly by Massey.&nbsp; In the third inning, Freddy Fermin singled and Jonathan India walked, but India was thrown out at second base, on a groundout by Witt Jr.&nbsp; Fermin was picked off at third base, and Witt Jr stole second, then came home on a single from Vinne Pasquantino for the 2-0 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A three run fifth inning for the Royals started rough with a strikeout from Waters and a groundout by Fermin, but after India doubled, Witt Jr singled to move his hit streak to a career best 16 games, scoring India.&nbsp; Pasquantino walked, and a wild pitch moved both into scoring position, and both scored on Perez's fourth double of the day, building the lead to 5-0.&nbsp;

Colorado found their way onto the scoreboard in the sixth inning, Beck hitting his second home run of the series, and his second of the season.&nbsp; Beck homered again in the eighth inning, for the final run of the game for the Rockies.&nbsp; Kansas City extended their lead in the bottom of the eighth, after Massey singled and was pinch ran for by Tolbert, Tolbert stole second and advanced to third on a throwing error, before scoring on a groundout by Waters.&nbsp;

Michael Lorenzen got the win in the second game, going to 2-3 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up one run on five hits, walking four and striking out seven.&nbsp; Perez led the way hitting in game two, going 3-4 with two RBI's.&nbsp;

Kansas City stays home tomorrow, beginning a series with the Houston Astros.&nbsp; Seth Lugo will open the series for the Royals against&nbsp;Hayden Wesneski for the Astros.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage will start at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals achieved their first series sweep of the season, beating the Colorado Rockies in both games of Thursday's doubleheader, winning game one 7-4 and game two 6-2.In game one, after the Rockies took a quick 1-0 lead in the top half of the first, Hunter Goodman singling to score Brenton Doyle, the Royals snagged the lead back in the bottom half of the inning.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia doubled to open the inning and Bobby Witt Jr was hit by a pitch, before Salvador Perez drove both runners in with a double for the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;Colorado tied the game up in the second inning, a solo home run by Jordan Beck, before taking the lead once again in the third inning with another home run, this time a two run blast from Goodman.&nbsp; But the Royals tied up the game in the bottom of the third, Perez hitting his second double of the game then scoring on a single by Michael Massey.&nbsp; Massey came home on a single from Drew Waters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting pitcher Cole Ragans exited the game to start the fourth inning, with what the Royals later reported was groin tightness, making way for Angel Zerpa on the mound.&nbsp; Zerpa gave up the final hit for the Rockies in the inning, and also walked one in the fifth which would be the final baserunners of the game.&nbsp;The Royals took the lead back for good in the bottom of the fifth inning.&nbsp; Rockies starter&nbsp;Germán Márquez issued back to back walks to Perez and Cavan Biggio.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jake Bird came on in relief and retired Massey and Hunter Renfroe, but hit Waters with a pitch, before Kyle Isbel singled to drive in both Perez and Biggio.&nbsp; Isbel also drove in Tyler Tolbert in the seventh inning with a single for the final Kansas City run of the game.&nbsp;Zerpa earned the win in game one, now 1-0 on the season, pitching two innings and giving up one hit and walking one, also striking out one.&nbsp; Carlos&nbsp;Estévez earned his sixth save.&nbsp; Garcia (2-5), Perez (2-4, 2 RBI's), Waters (2-3, 1 RBI), Isbel (2-4, 3 RBI's), and Renfroe (2-3) led the way hitting in the opener on the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr also had a hit, extending his hitting streak to 15 games.&nbsp;In game two, the Royals jumped out to a larger lead, scoring five runs in the first five innings.&nbsp; Perez continued his hot day with a double in the second inning, then scored on a sacrifice fly by Massey.&nbsp; In the third inning, Freddy Fermin singled and Jonathan India walked, but India was thrown out at second base, on a groundout by Witt Jr.&nbsp; Fermin was picked off at third base, and Witt Jr stole second, then came home on a single from Vinne Pasquantino for the 2-0 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;A three run fifth inning for the Royals started rough with a strikeout from Waters and a groundout by Fermin, but after India doubled, Witt Jr singled to move his hit streak to a career best 16 games, scoring India.&nbsp; Pasquantino walked, and a wild pitch moved both into scoring position, and both scored on Perez's fourth double of the day, building the lead to 5-0.&nbsp;Colorado found their way onto the scoreboard in the sixth inning, Beck hitting his second home run of the series, and his second of the season.&nbsp; Beck homered again in the eighth inning, for the final run of the game for the Rockies.&nbsp; Kansas City extended their lead in the bottom of the eighth, after Massey singled and was pinch ran for by Tolbert, Tolbert stole second and advanced to third on a throwing error, before scoring on a groundout by Waters.&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen got the win in the second game, going to 2-3 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up one run on five hits, walking four and striking out seven.&nbsp; Perez led the way hitting in game two, going 3-4 with two RBI's.&nbsp;Kansas City stays home tomorrow, beginning a series with the Houston Astros.&nbsp; Seth Lugo will open the series for the Royals against&nbsp;Hayden Wesneski for the Astros.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage will start at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals sweep doubleheader, series over Rockies

For a third year, the St. Joseph Mustangs and United Way of Greater St. Joseph are partnering to honor some deserving area volunteers in local organizations.  

Nominations are open for the 2025 Team Player Award, where every Friday during the Mustangs season home games, one volunteer or group will be recognized out on the field.  

United Way President Kylee Strough says winners will be treated to a special night, starting with recognition on the pitcher’s mound of what the volunteer has done.  

"Then they get to throw out a first pitch, and most weeks what we see is the organization that nominated them is also showing up in force to celebrate them," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  "They get to stick around and watch the game, so it's a little bit of a special night where they get treated to a little red carpet." 

Strough says the award is an opportunity to honor volunteers for their work in the community, but also a great way to promote volunteerism 

"Our hope with it is that we not only recognize the volunteers, but the people in the stands hear about an organization or a volunteer activity that they might not have even knew existed in our community," Strough explains.  "And they can contact United Way Volunteer Center to make that connection, so it lifts and elevates volunteering in general while recognizing some very special people." 

Strough says she's seen this as an effective tool for promoting volunteerism, saying even at games she gets stopped to be asked about volunteer opportunities 

"I've had some spectators stop me on my way out and say like hey I'd like to get connected or where can I find more information," Strough says.  "So, it does spur some action which is great." 

Winners will be recognized during Friday home games at Phil Welch Stadium.  The nomination window is open through May 6th.  

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745507685705.jpeg" alt="Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner recognizing volunteer&nbsp;Isaac Wheel-iam Unruh last season with the Team Player Award.&nbsp; The United Way of Greater St. Joseph is accepting nominations for this year's awards/ Photo courtesy of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph Facebook" />
 <figcaption>Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner recognizing volunteer&nbsp;Isaac Wheel-iam Unruh last season with the Team Player Award.&nbsp; The United Way of Greater St. Joseph is accepting nominations for this year's awards/ Photo courtesy of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph Facebook</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post For a third year, the St. Joseph Mustangs and United Way of Greater St. Joseph are partnering to honor some deserving area volunteers in local organizations. Nominations are open for the 2025 Team Player Award, where every Friday during the Mustangs season home games, one volunteer or group will be recognized out on the field. United Way President Kylee Strough says winners will be treated to a special night, starting with recognition on the pitcher’s mound of what the volunteer has done. "Then they get to throw out a first pitch, and most weeks what we see is the organization that nominated them is also showing up in force to celebrate them," Strough tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "They get to stick around and watch the game, so it's a little bit of a special night where they get treated to a little red carpet." Strough says the award is an opportunity to honor volunteers for their work in the community, but also a great way to promote volunteerism "Our hope with it is that we not only recognize the volunteers, but the people in the stands hear about an organization or a volunteer activity that they might not have even knew existed in our community," Strough explains. "And they can contact United Way Volunteer Center to make that connection, so it lifts and elevates volunteering in general while recognizing some very special people." Strough says she's seen this as an effective tool for promoting volunteerism, saying even at games she gets stopped to be asked about volunteer opportunities "I've had some spectators stop me on my way out and say like hey I'd like to get connected or where can I find more information," Strough says. "So, it does spur some action which is great." Winners will be recognized during Friday home games at Phil Welch Stadium. The nomination window is open through May 6th. The Mustangs season opens on May 28th.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph United Way- Mustangs honoring volunteers this baseball season

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1pcz7hDUbdTYfwK8hnNUsy?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

 After a two-hour-plus rain delay, Wednesday night’s game between the Rockies and Royals at Kauffman Stadium was postponed and will be played as the second game of a traditional doubleheader tomorrow beginning at 1:10 p.m.

Dark clouds and storms were rolling in around the Kansas City area throughout Wednesday night. It started raining around 8:45 p.m., with the teams making the decision to play a doubleheader tomorrow shortly after.

The Royals will have lefty Cole Ragans start Game 1 tomorrow as originally scheduled for the series finale, and then right-hander Michael Lorenzen – who was supposed to start Wednesday night – is scheduled to start Game 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomorrow will mark the Rockies’ second doubleheader in five days after they split with the Nationals on Sunday.

Traditional doubleheaders are played with a short break between games, and typically with single-game admission, but the Royals had not immediately released ticketing information after the postponement.

After a two-hour-plus rain delay, Wednesday night’s game between the Rockies and Royals at Kauffman Stadium was postponed and will be played as the second game of a traditional doubleheader tomorrow beginning at 1:10 p.m.Dark clouds and storms were rolling in around the Kansas City area throughout Wednesday night. It started raining around 8:45 p.m., with the teams making the decision to play a doubleheader tomorrow shortly after.The Royals will have lefty Cole Ragans start Game 1 tomorrow as originally scheduled for the series finale, and then right-hander Michael Lorenzen – who was supposed to start Wednesday night – is scheduled to start Game 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tomorrow will mark the Rockies’ second doubleheader in five days after they split with the Nationals on Sunday.Traditional doubleheaders are played with a short break between games, and typically with single-game admission, but the Royals had not immediately released ticketing information after the postponement.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals, Rockies postponed; Doubleheader on Thursday

The St. Louis Cardinals were unable to capitalize on a quality start from Miles Mikolas, putting up just a lone run on way to a 4-1 series ending loss to the Atlanta Braves Wednesday afternoon at Truist Park.&nbsp;

The Cardinals took the lead in the game early.&nbsp; After Nolan Gorman walked with two outs, and advanced to second base on a wild pitch, Nolan Arenado drove Gorman in with a double into left field.&nbsp; Behind the strong pitching effort from Mikolas, St Louis held that lead until late as the bullpen collapsed.&nbsp;

Mikolas pitched six innings, striking out two and walking two while giving up six hits.&nbsp; It was the best start of the season for Mikolas, his first quality start and first giving up no runs lowering his season ERA to 5.70.&nbsp; He was left however, still searching for his first win of the season.&nbsp;

Atlanta tied the game up in the seventh inning off reliever John King.&nbsp; Nick Allen doubled and scored in the next at bat on a single from Michael Harris II.&nbsp; Kyle Leahy replaced King and ended the inning with a strikeout and a pop out, before he was replaced by JoJo Romero in the eighth and Romero went on to give up three runs.&nbsp;

Back to back singles by Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies opened the inning, then Sean Murphy pinch hitting for Drake Baldwin grounded out advancing both into scoring position.&nbsp; Manager Oliver Marmol went to the bullpen again, replacing Romero with Ryan Fernandez and Fernandez on a 1-1 count gave up a three run blast to Eli White.&nbsp; Back to back strkeouts ended the inning, but it was to little, to late.&nbsp;

Daysbel Hernández, who finished out the eighth inning for Atlanta, remained on the mound, and forced Yohel Pozo to pop out and struck out Victor Scott II.&nbsp; Masyn Winn did single, and moved to second on runners indifference, but was stranded there as Lars Nootbaar grounded out to end the game.&nbsp;

Romero took the loss, falling to 1-3, pitching 0.1 innings and giving up two runs on two hits.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the way hitting going 3-4 at the plate.&nbsp;

St. Louis is off tomorrow before returning to Busch Stadium on Friday.&nbsp; The Cardinals open a three game series against the Milwaukee Brewers,&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore set to open the series.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 1:15pm on Friday, pregame coverage starting at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals were unable to capitalize on a quality start from Miles Mikolas, putting up just a lone run on way to a 4-1 series ending loss to the Atlanta Braves Wednesday afternoon at Truist Park.&nbsp;The Cardinals took the lead in the game early.&nbsp; After Nolan Gorman walked with two outs, and advanced to second base on a wild pitch, Nolan Arenado drove Gorman in with a double into left field.&nbsp; Behind the strong pitching effort from Mikolas, St Louis held that lead until late as the bullpen collapsed.&nbsp;Mikolas pitched six innings, striking out two and walking two while giving up six hits.&nbsp; It was the best start of the season for Mikolas, his first quality start and first giving up no runs lowering his season ERA to 5.70.&nbsp; He was left however, still searching for his first win of the season.&nbsp;Atlanta tied the game up in the seventh inning off reliever John King.&nbsp; Nick Allen doubled and scored in the next at bat on a single from Michael Harris II.&nbsp; Kyle Leahy replaced King and ended the inning with a strikeout and a pop out, before he was replaced by JoJo Romero in the eighth and Romero went on to give up three runs.&nbsp;Back to back singles by Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies opened the inning, then Sean Murphy pinch hitting for Drake Baldwin grounded out advancing both into scoring position.&nbsp; Manager Oliver Marmol went to the bullpen again, replacing Romero with Ryan Fernandez and Fernandez on a 1-1 count gave up a three run blast to Eli White.&nbsp; Back to back strkeouts ended the inning, but it was to little, to late.&nbsp;Daysbel Hernández, who finished out the eighth inning for Atlanta, remained on the mound, and forced Yohel Pozo to pop out and struck out Victor Scott II.&nbsp; Masyn Winn did single, and moved to second on runners indifference, but was stranded there as Lars Nootbaar grounded out to end the game.&nbsp;Romero took the loss, falling to 1-3, pitching 0.1 innings and giving up two runs on two hits.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the way hitting going 3-4 at the plate.&nbsp;St. Louis is off tomorrow before returning to Busch Stadium on Friday.&nbsp; The Cardinals open a three game series against the Milwaukee Brewers,&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore set to open the series.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 1:15pm on Friday, pregame coverage starting at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite Mikolas' quality start, Cardinals fall 4-1 to Braves in series finale

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4PH0ZCfcKzFrwGwdlXjUHX?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Kansas City Royals closer Carlos&nbsp;Estévez blew a 2-0 lead in the top of the ninth, but the Royals tied the game up to force extra innings and secured a walk off 4-3 win in 11 innings in the series opener against the Colorado Rockies at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp;

Kris Bubic was stellar for the Royals in the start, but so was Rockies starter&nbsp;Ryan Feltner as both teams were scoreless through the first six innings.&nbsp; The scoreless tie was broken when Drew Waters, who had singled in the third inning, hit his first home run of the season at the major league level to right center field.&nbsp;

Kansas City extended their lead in the eighth inning after Waters tripled, and was later driven in by Kyle Isbel with a single.&nbsp; Waters finished the game a double shy of the cycle.&nbsp; Waters most notably hit a cycle earlier this season at Triple A Omaha.&nbsp; The Royals though ran into some trouble in the ninth inning, as&nbsp;Estévez came on for the save.&nbsp;

The inning started off fine for&nbsp;Estévez as he quickly retired&nbsp;Sean Bouchard and&nbsp;Kyle Farmer.&nbsp; But then,&nbsp;Estévez issued back-to-back-to-back walks to&nbsp;Ryan McMahon,&nbsp;Hunter Goodman, and&nbsp;Michael Toglia who all came around to score when Jacob Stallings hit a bases clearing double, pushing Colorado ahead 3-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With their backs against the wall in the bottom of the ninth, Salvador Perez singled to open the inning for Kansas City, and was replaced by Freddy Fermin as a pinch runner.&nbsp; A double from Maikel Garcia moved Fermin to third base, and with two in scoring position&nbsp;Michael Massey hit a sacrifice fly to left field scoring Fermin, leaving Garcia at second base.&nbsp; Garcia wound up being picked off attempting to steal third base, and Cavan Biggio flew out to force the game into extra innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After neither team scored in the 10th inning, and the Rockies left&nbsp;Zac Veen stranded at second base, the Royals came to bat in the 11th, Mark Canha opening up the inning at second base.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr was intentionally walked, and then after Tyler Kinley Jr.'s wild pitch moved Canha to third and Witt Jr to second, Vinnie Pasquantino was intentionally walked to load the bases, bringing up Fermin for his first at bat.&nbsp; Fermin cashed in with a single, scoring Canha for the walk off win.&nbsp;

Daniel Lynch IV earned the win in relief, moving to 3-0 on the season, pitching one inning, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Bubic in his stellar start pitched seven shutout innings, giving up four hits and striking out six.&nbsp; Waters led the way hitting going 3-4 with a home run, triple, single and one RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas City and Colorado go again tomorrow, continuing the homestand for the Royals.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen gets the start for Kansas City taking on&nbsp;Germán Márquez for the Rockies.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745377017716.png" alt="Kansas City Royals' Drew Waters celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Colorado Rockies, Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Drew Waters celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Colorado Rockies, Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostKansas City Royals closer Carlos&nbsp;Estévez blew a 2-0 lead in the top of the ninth, but the Royals tied the game up to force extra innings and secured a walk off 4-3 win in 11 innings in the series opener against the Colorado Rockies at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp;Kris Bubic was stellar for the Royals in the start, but so was Rockies starter&nbsp;Ryan Feltner as both teams were scoreless through the first six innings.&nbsp; The scoreless tie was broken when Drew Waters, who had singled in the third inning, hit his first home run of the season at the major league level to right center field.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Drew drives one out! <a href="https://t.co/gsJHQbBYGt">pic.twitter.com/gsJHQbBYGt</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1914846748326945085?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City extended their lead in the eighth inning after Waters tripled, and was later driven in by Kyle Isbel with a single.&nbsp; Waters finished the game a double shy of the cycle.&nbsp; Waters most notably hit a cycle earlier this season at Triple A Omaha.&nbsp; The Royals though ran into some trouble in the ninth inning, as&nbsp;Estévez came on for the save.&nbsp;The inning started off fine for&nbsp;Estévez as he quickly retired&nbsp;Sean Bouchard and&nbsp;Kyle Farmer.&nbsp; But then,&nbsp;Estévez issued back-to-back-to-back walks to&nbsp;Ryan McMahon,&nbsp;Hunter Goodman, and&nbsp;Michael Toglia who all came around to score when Jacob Stallings hit a bases clearing double, pushing Colorado ahead 3-2.&nbsp;&nbsp;With their backs against the wall in the bottom of the ninth, Salvador Perez singled to open the inning for Kansas City, and was replaced by Freddy Fermin as a pinch runner.&nbsp; A double from Maikel Garcia moved Fermin to third base, and with two in scoring position&nbsp;Michael Massey hit a sacrifice fly to left field scoring Fermin, leaving Garcia at second base.&nbsp; Garcia wound up being picked off attempting to steal third base, and Cavan Biggio flew out to force the game into extra innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;After neither team scored in the 10th inning, and the Rockies left&nbsp;Zac Veen stranded at second base, the Royals came to bat in the 11th, Mark Canha opening up the inning at second base.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr was intentionally walked, and then after Tyler Kinley Jr.'s wild pitch moved Canha to third and Witt Jr to second, Vinnie Pasquantino was intentionally walked to load the bases, bringing up Fermin for his first at bat.&nbsp; Fermin cashed in with a single, scoring Canha for the walk off win.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Don&#39;t dread, trust Fred.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HEYHEYHEYHEY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HEYHEYHEYHEY</a> <a href="https://t.co/D3FLDNEGaM">pic.twitter.com/D3FLDNEGaM</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1914871925916024983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Daniel Lynch IV earned the win in relief, moving to 3-0 on the season, pitching one inning, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Bubic in his stellar start pitched seven shutout innings, giving up four hits and striking out six.&nbsp; Waters led the way hitting going 3-4 with a home run, triple, single and one RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City and Colorado go again tomorrow, continuing the homestand for the Royals.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen gets the start for Kansas City taking on&nbsp;Germán Márquez for the Rockies.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals pen blows lead in ninth, but Kansas City walks off in 11th 4-3

The St. Louis Cardinals snapped a five game losing skid in explosive fashion, coming from behind to beat the Atlanta Braves 10-4 on Tuesday night at Truist Park.&nbsp;

St. Louis didn't have to come from behind at first, taking the lead in the game first in the third inning, thanks to Lars Nootbaar.&nbsp; Victor Scott II opened the inning with a single, and after Masyn Winn in his return to the lineup from a stint on the injured list lined out to third base, Nootbaar blasted a home run to right field to give the Redbirds a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Atlanta added all four of their runs though over the next two innings to snatch the lead back.&nbsp; A Sean Murphy home run started the scoring in the fourth inning before Jared Kelenic doubled and was later driven in on a double by Alex Verdugo.&nbsp; Verdugo advanced to third on a wild pitch by Cardinals starter Andre Pallante and scored on a single by Austin Riley to cap the three run inning.&nbsp; A home run from Matt Olson was the lone run, and final run of the game for the Braves, in the fifth inning.

In the sixth inning, St. Louis stormed back to tie the game up after Rafael Montero loaded the bases.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the inning off with a single, and Jordan Walker and Scott II walked, before Winn singled to bring home Burleson.&nbsp; Dylan Lee replaced Montero and struck out Nootbaar, but a wild pitch allowed Walker to score.&nbsp; Lee intentionally walked Wilson Contreras to load the bases, then getting Nolan Gorman to fly out to center ending the inning.&nbsp;

It was Gorman however, that gave the Cardinals the lead back for good in the eighth inning.&nbsp; Scott II doubled, and then moved to third base thanks to a wild pitch from&nbsp;Enyel De Los Santos.&nbsp; De Los Santos intentionally walked Nootbaar, who stole second base, and then walked Contreras before Gorman hit a bases clearing double to right field, giving St. Louis a 7-4 lead and moving to third on the throw in.&nbsp; A Nolan Arenado ground out to third base put an end to the inning with Gorman stranded at third.

The Cardinals added the final three runs of insurance in the ninth.&nbsp; Burleson and&nbsp;Pedro Pagés singled before Scott II drove in Burleson with a double,&nbsp;Pagés though was forced to hold up at third base.&nbsp; With two runners in scoring position, Winn hit a sacrifice fly to score&nbsp;Pagés and advance Scott II to third.&nbsp; Nootbaar drove in his third run of the game with a single to bring home Scott II for the final score.&nbsp;

Steven Matz earned the win in relief, moving to 2-2 on the season, pitching 2.2 innings and giving up one hit, striking out two and walking one.&nbsp; In a no decision, Pallante pitched 4.1 innings, giving up all four runs on seven hits while striking out one and walking three.&nbsp; Scott II led the way hitting going 3-4 with two RBI's.&nbsp;

Nootbaar (2-5, 1 HR, 3 RBI), Contreras (2-4, 1 run) and Burleson (2-5, 2 runs) also helped pace the Redbirds hitting in the win.&nbsp;

The Cardinals and Braves wrap up their series and the Redbirds wrap up a roadtrip before returning to Busch Stadium for three games tomorrow. Miles Mikolas takes the mound for St. Louis in the finale against Bryce Elder for Atlanta.&nbsp; First pitch is at 11:15 am, pregame will be joined at 11:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals snapped a five game losing skid in explosive fashion, coming from behind to beat the Atlanta Braves 10-4 on Tuesday night at Truist Park.&nbsp;St. Louis didn't have to come from behind at first, taking the lead in the game first in the third inning, thanks to Lars Nootbaar.&nbsp; Victor Scott II opened the inning with a single, and after Masyn Winn in his return to the lineup from a stint on the injured list lined out to third base, Nootbaar blasted a home run to right field to give the Redbirds a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Say it with us now... NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT! <a href="https://t.co/gRBdOTgrOk">pic.twitter.com/gRBdOTgrOk</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1914829570445922704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Atlanta added all four of their runs though over the next two innings to snatch the lead back.&nbsp; A Sean Murphy home run started the scoring in the fourth inning before Jared Kelenic doubled and was later driven in on a double by Alex Verdugo.&nbsp; Verdugo advanced to third on a wild pitch by Cardinals starter Andre Pallante and scored on a single by Austin Riley to cap the three run inning.&nbsp; A home run from Matt Olson was the lone run, and final run of the game for the Braves, in the fifth inning.In the sixth inning, St. Louis stormed back to tie the game up after Rafael Montero loaded the bases.&nbsp; Alec Burleson led the inning off with a single, and Jordan Walker and Scott II walked, before Winn singled to bring home Burleson.&nbsp; Dylan Lee replaced Montero and struck out Nootbaar, but a wild pitch allowed Walker to score.&nbsp; Lee intentionally walked Wilson Contreras to load the bases, then getting Nolan Gorman to fly out to center ending the inning.&nbsp;It was Gorman however, that gave the Cardinals the lead back for good in the eighth inning.&nbsp; Scott II doubled, and then moved to third base thanks to a wild pitch from&nbsp;Enyel De Los Santos.&nbsp; De Los Santos intentionally walked Nootbaar, who stole second base, and then walked Contreras before Gorman hit a bases clearing double to right field, giving St. Louis a 7-4 lead and moving to third on the throw in.&nbsp; A Nolan Arenado ground out to third base put an end to the inning with Gorman stranded at third.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Go-Ahead Gorman clears the bases! <a href="https://t.co/JDU4wUTBfU">pic.twitter.com/JDU4wUTBfU</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1914859277660954821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Cardinals added the final three runs of insurance in the ninth.&nbsp; Burleson and&nbsp;Pedro Pagés singled before Scott II drove in Burleson with a double,&nbsp;Pagés though was forced to hold up at third base.&nbsp; With two runners in scoring position, Winn hit a sacrifice fly to score&nbsp;Pagés and advance Scott II to third.&nbsp; Nootbaar drove in his third run of the game with a single to bring home Scott II for the final score.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Insurance provided by Victor Scott II! <a href="https://t.co/TEIKjGofbe">pic.twitter.com/TEIKjGofbe</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1914863072029667612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Steven Matz earned the win in relief, moving to 2-2 on the season, pitching 2.2 innings and giving up one hit, striking out two and walking one.&nbsp; In a no decision, Pallante pitched 4.1 innings, giving up all four runs on seven hits while striking out one and walking three.&nbsp; Scott II led the way hitting going 3-4 with two RBI's.&nbsp;Nootbaar (2-5, 1 HR, 3 RBI), Contreras (2-4, 1 run) and Burleson (2-5, 2 runs) also helped pace the Redbirds hitting in the win.&nbsp;The Cardinals and Braves wrap up their series and the Redbirds wrap up a roadtrip before returning to Busch Stadium for three games tomorrow. Miles Mikolas takes the mound for St. Louis in the finale against Bryce Elder for Atlanta.&nbsp; First pitch is at 11:15 am, pregame will be joined at 11:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cards snap losing streak with explosive 10-4 win over Braves

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/3NO3zwRJ5eppL9SYrxryG4?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The St. Louis Cardinals managed to outhit the Atlanta Braves in their series opener on Monday, but the Redbirds did not get the end result they hoped for, their losing streak moving to five games as they fell 7-6 at Truist Park.&nbsp;

The Cardinals took a 2-0 lead in the top of the second inning.&nbsp; Nolan Gorman doubled with two outs and then scored on a single by&nbsp;Pedro Pagés, who advanced all the way to third base on a throwing error by Matt Olson.&nbsp; Pagés came home in the next at bat, a single by Victor Scott II.&nbsp; The Braves though, tied up the game one inning later.&nbsp; In the bottom of the third, after Alex Verdugo led off with a walk, Austin Riley hit his sixth home run of the year to left field.

With the game tied, St. Louis took the lead back in the top of the sixth, Nolan Arenado leading off with a double before scoring with a single from Nolan Gorman.&nbsp; However, Atlanta put up five runs in the eighth inning as pitching troubles started to hit the Cardinals after opening the inning with a strikeout of Verdugo.&nbsp;

Following the strikeout, Riley singled and Marcell Ozuna walked before Olson singled to drive in Riley, tying up the game.&nbsp; Reliever Phil Maton walked Ozzie Albies to load the bases, and was replaced by JoJo Romero, who came in and surrendered a sacrifice fly to Michael Harris II, driving in Eli White who pinch ran for Ozuna.&nbsp; Then, with two outs, Sean Murphy extended the lead with a three run home run to left field.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Louis attempted to put together a rally in the ninth inning.&nbsp; After Gorman struck out to start the inning,&nbsp;Pagés hit a ground rule double, then scored on a double from Scott II in the next at bat.&nbsp; Lars Nootbaar lined out to left field, then with two outs Willson Contreras cut the lead to one on a two run homer to left center field.&nbsp; Brendan Donovan walked, but with the tying run at first base, Nolan Arenado hit a soft grounder to Murphy and was tagged for the final out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maton took the loss, falling to 0-1 and blowing his first save of the season, pitching 0.1 innings and giving up four runs on two hits, walking two and striking out one.&nbsp; Erick Fedde in a no decision pitched six innings, giving up two runs on five hits, with three strikeouts and three walks.&nbsp; Scott II led the way at the plate, going 3-4 with two RBIs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Louis will look to snap their losing streak as the series against the Braves continues tomorrow.&nbsp; Andre Pallante will start for the Cardinals while Atlanta's starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:15, pregame coverage will be joined at 6:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals managed to outhit the Atlanta Braves in their series opener on Monday, but the Redbirds did not get the end result they hoped for, their losing streak moving to five games as they fell 7-6 at Truist Park.&nbsp;The Cardinals took a 2-0 lead in the top of the second inning.&nbsp; Nolan Gorman doubled with two outs and then scored on a single by&nbsp;Pedro Pagés, who advanced all the way to third base on a throwing error by Matt Olson.&nbsp; Pagés came home in the next at bat, a single by Victor Scott II.&nbsp; The Braves though, tied up the game one inning later.&nbsp; In the bottom of the third, after Alex Verdugo led off with a walk, Austin Riley hit his sixth home run of the year to left field.With the game tied, St. Louis took the lead back in the top of the sixth, Nolan Arenado leading off with a double before scoring with a single from Nolan Gorman.&nbsp; However, Atlanta put up five runs in the eighth inning as pitching troubles started to hit the Cardinals after opening the inning with a strikeout of Verdugo.&nbsp;Following the strikeout, Riley singled and Marcell Ozuna walked before Olson singled to drive in Riley, tying up the game.&nbsp; Reliever Phil Maton walked Ozzie Albies to load the bases, and was replaced by JoJo Romero, who came in and surrendered a sacrifice fly to Michael Harris II, driving in Eli White who pinch ran for Ozuna.&nbsp; Then, with two outs, Sean Murphy extended the lead with a three run home run to left field.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis attempted to put together a rally in the ninth inning.&nbsp; After Gorman struck out to start the inning,&nbsp;Pagés hit a ground rule double, then scored on a double from Scott II in the next at bat.&nbsp; Lars Nootbaar lined out to left field, then with two outs Willson Contreras cut the lead to one on a two run homer to left center field.&nbsp; Brendan Donovan walked, but with the tying run at first base, Nolan Arenado hit a soft grounder to Murphy and was tagged for the final out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maton took the loss, falling to 0-1 and blowing his first save of the season, pitching 0.1 innings and giving up four runs on two hits, walking two and striking out one.&nbsp; Erick Fedde in a no decision pitched six innings, giving up two runs on five hits, with three strikeouts and three walks.&nbsp; Scott II led the way at the plate, going 3-4 with two RBIs.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis will look to snap their losing streak as the series against the Braves continues tomorrow.&nbsp; Andre Pallante will start for the Cardinals while Atlanta's starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:15, pregame coverage will be joined at 6:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cardinals drop fifth game in a row losing to Braves 7-6

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/2gCphNzhXPMz6Nb0EhmvnI?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The Kansas City Royals snapped a six game losing streak and avoided another series sweep, beating the Detroit Tigers 4-3 in 10 innings at Comerica Park on Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;

Kansas City took the first lead of the game in the second inning.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia singled and moved to third base on a single by Hunter Renfroe.&nbsp; Garcia later scored with a single off the bat of Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; After Freddy Fermin struck out, Renfroe found his way home on a single by Drew Waters for the 2-0 lead.

Detroit though tied up the game in the bottom of the fifth.&nbsp; Colt Keith hit a leadoff single and advanced to third in the next at bat on a single from Trey Sweeney.&nbsp; Keith scored later in the inning with two outs on a single by Kerry Carpenter, moving Sweeney to third who scored on a single by&nbsp;Zach McKinstry.&nbsp; The Tigers took their only lead of the game in the seventh,&nbsp;McKinstry driving in&nbsp;Gleyber Torres with an RBI single.

The Royals were able to tie the game up again though in the very next inning, first getting Bobby Witt Jr to second base on a throwing error by Javier Baez.&nbsp; A single from Mark Cahna drove in Witt Jr.&nbsp; Then in the top of the 10th, with Drew Waters starting at second base, and then advancing to third on a ground out by Jonathan India, Witt Jr hit a fly ball to left fielder Riley Greene, allowing Waters to score the go ahead run.&nbsp;

Carlos&nbsp;Estévez, who came on to pitch the ninth inning, remained on for the bottom of the 10th, and did get into some trouble with runners on the corners with two outs, but forced&nbsp;Dillon Dingler to pop out to second Garcia to end the game,&nbsp;Estévez earning his first win of the season.&nbsp;

Estévez, now 1-0, pitched two innings in relief, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Michael Wacha in a no decision pitched 5.1 innings giving up two runs on seven hits, striking out five.&nbsp; At the plate, Canha (2-4, 1 RBI), Garcia (2-3), and Waters (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting.&nbsp;

Kansas City is off on Monday.&nbsp; They return to Kauffman Stadium on Tuesday to host the Colorado Rockies.&nbsp; Kris Bubic will start for the Royals against&nbsp;Ryan Feltner for the Rockies.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage will begin at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745197828902.jpeg" alt="Carlos Estevez earned his first win of the season as the Royals avoided a sweep against the Detroit Tigers, winning 4-3 in extra innings/ Photo courtesy the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Estevez earned his first win of the season as the Royals avoided a sweep against the Detroit Tigers, winning 4-3 in extra innings/ Photo courtesy the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals snapped a six game losing streak and avoided another series sweep, beating the Detroit Tigers 4-3 in 10 innings at Comerica Park on Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;Kansas City took the first lead of the game in the second inning.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia singled and moved to third base on a single by Hunter Renfroe.&nbsp; Garcia later scored with a single off the bat of Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; After Freddy Fermin struck out, Renfroe found his way home on a single by Drew Waters for the 2-0 lead.Detroit though tied up the game in the bottom of the fifth.&nbsp; Colt Keith hit a leadoff single and advanced to third in the next at bat on a single from Trey Sweeney.&nbsp; Keith scored later in the inning with two outs on a single by Kerry Carpenter, moving Sweeney to third who scored on a single by&nbsp;Zach McKinstry.&nbsp; The Tigers took their only lead of the game in the seventh,&nbsp;McKinstry driving in&nbsp;Gleyber Torres with an RBI single.The Royals were able to tie the game up again though in the very next inning, first getting Bobby Witt Jr to second base on a throwing error by Javier Baez.&nbsp; A single from Mark Cahna drove in Witt Jr.&nbsp; Then in the top of the 10th, with Drew Waters starting at second base, and then advancing to third on a ground out by Jonathan India, Witt Jr hit a fly ball to left fielder Riley Greene, allowing Waters to score the go ahead run.&nbsp;Carlos&nbsp;Estévez, who came on to pitch the ninth inning, remained on for the bottom of the 10th, and did get into some trouble with runners on the corners with two outs, but forced&nbsp;Dillon Dingler to pop out to second Garcia to end the game,&nbsp;Estévez earning his first win of the season.&nbsp;Estévez, now 1-0, pitched two innings in relief, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Michael Wacha in a no decision pitched 5.1 innings giving up two runs on seven hits, striking out five.&nbsp; At the plate, Canha (2-4, 1 RBI), Garcia (2-3), and Waters (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting.&nbsp;Kansas City is off on Monday.&nbsp; They return to Kauffman Stadium on Tuesday to host the Colorado Rockies.&nbsp; Kris Bubic will start for the Royals against&nbsp;Ryan Feltner for the Rockies.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage will begin at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals snap losing skid, avoid sweep in 4-3 extra innings win over TIgers

The St. Louis Cardinals dropped a third straight game, managing just three total hits in a shutout 3-0 loss to the New York Mets on the road Saturday afternoon at Citi Field.&nbsp;

Mets starter Kodai Senga walked two batters and gave up a double to&nbsp;Thomas Saggese in the second inning and another in the fifth, as well as a single to Brendan Donovan in the sixth inning before being pulled from the game for the bullpen.

New York opened their scoring in the second inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Luisangel Acuña doubled to open the inning and later scored on a single by Juan Soto.&nbsp; Soto scored the second run of the game on a double by Pete Alonso.&nbsp; The Mets added their final run in the eighth, a solo home run from Alonso.&nbsp;

Matthew Liberatore took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 1-2 on the season, pitching 6.2 innings and giving up two runs on six hits, striking out six batters and walking one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Saggese led the way hitting going 2-4 with his two doubles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Louis and New York wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Sonny Gray takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Clay Holmes for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:40, pregame will be joined at 12:30 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals dropped a third straight game, managing just three total hits in a shutout 3-0 loss to the New York Mets on the road Saturday afternoon at Citi Field.&nbsp;Mets starter Kodai Senga walked two batters and gave up a double to&nbsp;Thomas Saggese in the second inning and another in the fifth, as well as a single to Brendan Donovan in the sixth inning before being pulled from the game for the bullpen.New York opened their scoring in the second inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Luisangel Acuña doubled to open the inning and later scored on a single by Juan Soto.&nbsp; Soto scored the second run of the game on a double by Pete Alonso.&nbsp; The Mets added their final run in the eighth, a solo home run from Alonso.&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 1-2 on the season, pitching 6.2 innings and giving up two runs on six hits, striking out six batters and walking one.&nbsp;&nbsp;Saggese led the way hitting going 2-4 with his two doubles.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis and New York wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Sonny Gray takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Clay Holmes for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:40, pregame will be joined at 12:30 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cardinals drop third straight getting shutout by Mets 3-0

The Kansas City Royals losing streak moved to six games on Saturday afternoon at Comerica Park, dropping another game to the Detroit Tigers and losing 3-1.&nbsp;

The Royals could not overcome a rough fifth inning where the Tigers scored all their runs on one hit, a three run home run by Spencer Torkelson driving in&nbsp;Javier Báez and Kerry Carpenter.&nbsp;&nbsp;Freddy Fermin's first home run of the season in the seventh inning was the lone Kansas City run.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seth Lugo took the loss on the mound, falling to 1-3, pitching 6.2 innings and giving up all three runs on five hits, striking out five and walking two.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch and Carlos&nbsp;Estévez combined to pitch the final 1.1 innings giving up no hits.&nbsp; Jonathan India (3-4) and Fermin (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting in the loss.&nbsp;

Prior to the game, the Royals did make a roster move optioning MJ Melendez to Triple-A Omaha.&nbsp; It was the corresponding move for outfielder Mark Canha returning from the 10-day injured list.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Melendez had only logged four hits in 52 plate appearances this year, with one double and one home run. He was slashing .085/.173/.170 with 20 strikeouts in 16 games.&nbsp; With Canha ready to be activated after the minimum 10-day IL stint, the Royals had to make a move. They believe this will allow Melendez to go to Triple-A, get everyday at-bats and try to show sustained production to find a way back to the big leagues.

The Royals entered Saturday having gone just 1-7 on their current 10-game road trip, and the offense is struggling, with just 2.95 runs per game this year. That amplified Melendez’s struggles. Even more so because the Royals weren’t able to land a corner outfield bat over the offseason, instead entering the season needing Melendez or Hunter Renfroe to bounce back from tough seasons. Renfroe is hitting .130 with a .383 OPS this year and is not playing every day.

Now, the goal for Melendez is to go to Triple-A and keep working on the swing changes he has been working on since the offseason -- without the pressure of needing results every night at the big league level.&nbsp; He’ll likely join Omaha for its road series in Toledo on Tuesday and get everyday at-bats there.&nbsp; How soon he returns to Kansas City remains to be seen.

“As I shared with [Melendez], there are very few players in this world who don’t get optioned at some point,” general manager J.J. Picollo says. “It’s certainly not the end of his career. We’d like to think it’s just the start of a new beginning. Take advantage of the opportunity to go out and play in Triple-A, play well and get back here. Here, it’s about performance. You’ve got to be able to perform.”

Kansas City and Detroit wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; The Royals send Michael Wacha to the mound, still searching for his first win, taking on Tigers ace and last year's AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:40pm, pregame coverage begins at noon on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals losing streak moved to six games on Saturday afternoon at Comerica Park, dropping another game to the Detroit Tigers and losing 3-1.&nbsp;The Royals could not overcome a rough fifth inning where the Tigers scored all their runs on one hit, a three run home run by Spencer Torkelson driving in&nbsp;Javier Báez and Kerry Carpenter.&nbsp;&nbsp;Freddy Fermin's first home run of the season in the seventh inning was the lone Kansas City run.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Freddy has us on the board. <a href="https://t.co/xrm99hVGFH">pic.twitter.com/xrm99hVGFH</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1913664813567222066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Seth Lugo took the loss on the mound, falling to 1-3, pitching 6.2 innings and giving up all three runs on five hits, striking out five and walking two.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch and Carlos&nbsp;Estévez combined to pitch the final 1.1 innings giving up no hits.&nbsp; Jonathan India (3-4) and Fermin (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting in the loss.&nbsp;Prior to the game, the Royals did make a roster move optioning MJ Melendez to Triple-A Omaha.&nbsp; It was the corresponding move for outfielder Mark Canha returning from the 10-day injured list.&nbsp;&nbsp;Melendez had only logged four hits in 52 plate appearances this year, with one double and one home run. He was slashing .085/.173/.170 with 20 strikeouts in 16 games.&nbsp; With Canha ready to be activated after the minimum 10-day IL stint, the Royals had to make a move. They believe this will allow Melendez to go to Triple-A, get everyday at-bats and try to show sustained production to find a way back to the big leagues.The Royals entered Saturday having gone just 1-7 on their current 10-game road trip, and the offense is struggling, with just 2.95 runs per game this year. That amplified Melendez’s struggles. Even more so because the Royals weren’t able to land a corner outfield bat over the offseason, instead entering the season needing Melendez or Hunter Renfroe to bounce back from tough seasons. Renfroe is hitting .130 with a .383 OPS this year and is not playing every day.Now, the goal for Melendez is to go to Triple-A and keep working on the swing changes he has been working on since the offseason -- without the pressure of needing results every night at the big league level.&nbsp; He’ll likely join Omaha for its road series in Toledo on Tuesday and get everyday at-bats there.&nbsp; How soon he returns to Kansas City remains to be seen.“As I shared with [Melendez], there are very few players in this world who don’t get optioned at some point,” general manager J.J. Picollo says. “It’s certainly not the end of his career. We’d like to think it’s just the start of a new beginning. Take advantage of the opportunity to go out and play in Triple-A, play well and get back here. Here, it’s about performance. You’ve got to be able to perform.”Kansas City and Detroit wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; The Royals send Michael Wacha to the mound, still searching for his first win, taking on Tigers ace and last year's AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:40pm, pregame coverage begins at noon on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Royals lose yet again to Tigers 3-1; Melendez optioned to Omaha

The St. Louis Cardinals struck early, but starting pitcher Miles Mikolas labored in the fifth inning, and the Redbirds wound up losing in walk off fashion to the New York Mets 5-4 on Friday night at Citi Field.&nbsp;

St. Louis scored first in the second inning, singles from&nbsp;Brendan Donovan and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese before&nbsp;Pedro Pagés hit a single of his own to score Donovan.&nbsp; Another run was added by the Cardinals in the fourth, Donovan again coming home this time on a single by Jordan Walker.&nbsp; But after four solid innings, allowing just two hits and one walk, Mikolas ran into trouble in the fifth.&nbsp;

Brett Baty led the inning off with a double, which was promptly followed up with a triple by Tyrone Taylor scoring Baty.&nbsp; Taylor came home to score on a single by Juan Soto.&nbsp; St. Louis did take the lead back in the top of the sixth, Willson Contreras doubling and getting driven in on a single by Nolan Arenado, but the Mets again tied the game up in the bottom half of the inning as&nbsp;Mark Vientos homered for a second consecutive game.

New York took their first lead of the game in the eighth inning as Vientos led the inning off with a single, before being pinch ran for by&nbsp;Luisangel Acuña who stole second base.&nbsp;&nbsp;Acuña did wind up being thrown out at third base on a fielders choice out with Brandon Nimmo at the plate, the tag play being challenged and upheld.&nbsp; Nimmo though moved to second on a throwing error by relief pitcher Phil Maton on a pickoff attempt, then scored on a double by Luis Torrens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Cardinals tied the game up in the top half of the ninth inning, Donovan scoring his third run of the game hitting a solo home run to right field.&nbsp; In the bottom half, Fransisco Lindor answered with a home run of his own for the walk off win for the Mets.&nbsp;

Ryan Fernandez took the loss in relief for St. Louis, falling to 0-2, not even recording an out only giving up the home run to Lindor.&nbsp; Mikolas pitched 4.2 innings and gave up two runs on five hits, striking out one and walking two in the no decision.&nbsp; Donovan (2-4, 3 runs, 1 RBI) and Arenado (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting.&nbsp;

St. Louis and New York continue tomorrow in the third game of the four game series.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore starts for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Kodai Senga for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals struck early, but starting pitcher Miles Mikolas labored in the fifth inning, and the Redbirds wound up losing in walk off fashion to the New York Mets 5-4 on Friday night at Citi Field.&nbsp;St. Louis scored first in the second inning, singles from&nbsp;Brendan Donovan and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese before&nbsp;Pedro Pagés hit a single of his own to score Donovan.&nbsp; Another run was added by the Cardinals in the fourth, Donovan again coming home this time on a single by Jordan Walker.&nbsp; But after four solid innings, allowing just two hits and one walk, Mikolas ran into trouble in the fifth.&nbsp;Brett Baty led the inning off with a double, which was promptly followed up with a triple by Tyrone Taylor scoring Baty.&nbsp; Taylor came home to score on a single by Juan Soto.&nbsp; St. Louis did take the lead back in the top of the sixth, Willson Contreras doubling and getting driven in on a single by Nolan Arenado, but the Mets again tied the game up in the bottom half of the inning as&nbsp;Mark Vientos homered for a second consecutive game.New York took their first lead of the game in the eighth inning as Vientos led the inning off with a single, before being pinch ran for by&nbsp;Luisangel Acuña who stole second base.&nbsp;&nbsp;Acuña did wind up being thrown out at third base on a fielders choice out with Brandon Nimmo at the plate, the tag play being challenged and upheld.&nbsp; Nimmo though moved to second on a throwing error by relief pitcher Phil Maton on a pickoff attempt, then scored on a double by Luis Torrens.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Not on Nolan! 🚫 <a href="https://t.co/n1Nw4KU9Fa">pic.twitter.com/n1Nw4KU9Fa</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1913405969180017102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Cardinals tied the game up in the top half of the ninth inning, Donovan scoring his third run of the game hitting a solo home run to right field.&nbsp; In the bottom half, Fransisco Lindor answered with a home run of his own for the walk off win for the Mets.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Brendan Donovan goes off the foul pole to tie it! 💥 <a href="https://t.co/fNM7K29CKt">pic.twitter.com/fNM7K29CKt</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1913409067369853162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ryan Fernandez took the loss in relief for St. Louis, falling to 0-2, not even recording an out only giving up the home run to Lindor.&nbsp; Mikolas pitched 4.2 innings and gave up two runs on five hits, striking out one and walking two in the no decision.&nbsp; Donovan (2-4, 3 runs, 1 RBI) and Arenado (2-4, 1 RBI) led the way hitting.&nbsp;St. Louis and New York continue tomorrow in the third game of the four game series.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore starts for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Kodai Senga for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:05pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cards strike early, but Mets get walkoff win to top Redbirds 5-4

The Kansas City Royals offensive woes continued on Friday night against the Detroit Tigers, falling 7-3 at Comerica Park.&nbsp;

The Royals got the lead quickly in the first inning.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr hit his ninth double of the year and advanced to third base on a wild pitch by Tigers starter Jackson Jobe, before scoring on the third double of the season from Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; Detroit tied the game up in the second inning,&nbsp;Tomás Nido singling to drive in Spencer Torkelson who walked to open the inning.&nbsp;

The Tigers broke the tie in the fourth inning,&nbsp;Andy Ibáñez hitting a home run to left field.&nbsp; Detroit added three more runs in the fifth inning to extend the lead,&nbsp;Justyn-Henry Malloy walked and Gleyber Torres singled before Henry Malloy was driven in on a single from Riley Greene.&nbsp; A single from pinch hitter Trey Sweeney off reliever John Schreiber scored Torres, and Greene came home in the next at bat as Torkelson grounded into a double play.&nbsp;

The final two runs for Detroit came in the seventh inning, with two outs.&nbsp; It started with a single from Greene, a line drive that deflected off reliever Lucas Erceg's foot, forcing him out of the game and bringing Angel Zerpa onto the mound.&nbsp; Zerpa surrendered a single to Sweeney before giving up a double to Torkelson, driving in both Greene and Sweeney.

Kansas City did begin to put together a bit of a rally in the ninth inning, despite the six run deficit.&nbsp; Witt Jr singled and moved to second base on runners indifference, before scoring on a single by Pasquantino.&nbsp; Salvador Perez reached first base next on catchers interference, and both Perez and Pasquantino advanced on the bases with a wild pitch by Kenta Maeda, followed by a walk to Maikel Garcia loading the bases, forcing the Tigers to go from Maeda to Tommy Kahnle.

Kahnle walked Michael Massey to start his night on the mound, bringing Pasquantino home to score, but then settled in striking out Cavan Biggio and getting Drew Waters to fly out to right field, leaving the bases loaded with the tying run at home plate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cole Ragans took the loss, falling to 1-1, recording less than 10 strikeouts for the first time since Opening Day, pitching four innings and giving up five runs on six hits, walking three and striking out eight.&nbsp; Witt Jr (2-5, 2 runs) and Pasquantino (2-5, 2 RBI's) led the way hitting.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Detroit go again tomorrow in game three of four, as the Royals seek to snap a five game losing streak.&nbsp; Seth Lugo starts for the Royals opposite Casey Mize for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 11:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals offensive woes continued on Friday night against the Detroit Tigers, falling 7-3 at Comerica Park.&nbsp;The Royals got the lead quickly in the first inning.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr hit his ninth double of the year and advanced to third base on a wild pitch by Tigers starter Jackson Jobe, before scoring on the third double of the season from Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; Detroit tied the game up in the second inning,&nbsp;Tomás Nido singling to drive in Spencer Torkelson who walked to open the inning.&nbsp;The Tigers broke the tie in the fourth inning,&nbsp;Andy Ibáñez hitting a home run to left field.&nbsp; Detroit added three more runs in the fifth inning to extend the lead,&nbsp;Justyn-Henry Malloy walked and Gleyber Torres singled before Henry Malloy was driven in on a single from Riley Greene.&nbsp; A single from pinch hitter Trey Sweeney off reliever John Schreiber scored Torres, and Greene came home in the next at bat as Torkelson grounded into a double play.&nbsp;The final two runs for Detroit came in the seventh inning, with two outs.&nbsp; It started with a single from Greene, a line drive that deflected off reliever Lucas Erceg's foot, forcing him out of the game and bringing Angel Zerpa onto the mound.&nbsp; Zerpa surrendered a single to Sweeney before giving up a double to Torkelson, driving in both Greene and Sweeney.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Not great. <a href="https://t.co/EClhyrbrFR">https://t.co/EClhyrbrFR</a> <a href="https://t.co/LGs7SSQyyF">pic.twitter.com/LGs7SSQyyF</a>&mdash; Anne Rogers (@anne__rogers) <a href="https://twitter.com/anne__rogers/status/1913393692242571292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City did begin to put together a bit of a rally in the ninth inning, despite the six run deficit.&nbsp; Witt Jr singled and moved to second base on runners indifference, before scoring on a single by Pasquantino.&nbsp; Salvador Perez reached first base next on catchers interference, and both Perez and Pasquantino advanced on the bases with a wild pitch by Kenta Maeda, followed by a walk to Maikel Garcia loading the bases, forcing the Tigers to go from Maeda to Tommy Kahnle.Kahnle walked Michael Massey to start his night on the mound, bringing Pasquantino home to score, but then settled in striking out Cavan Biggio and getting Drew Waters to fly out to right field, leaving the bases loaded with the tying run at home plate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cole Ragans took the loss, falling to 1-1, recording less than 10 strikeouts for the first time since Opening Day, pitching four innings and giving up five runs on six hits, walking three and striking out eight.&nbsp; Witt Jr (2-5, 2 runs) and Pasquantino (2-5, 2 RBI's) led the way hitting.&nbsp;Kansas City and Detroit go again tomorrow in game three of four, as the Royals seek to snap a five game losing streak.&nbsp; Seth Lugo starts for the Royals opposite Casey Mize for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 11:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals slide moves to five L's in a row, fall to Tigers 7-3

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/77cWnwL6n8l6iNAcXWRSv2?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Andre Pallante has been a bright spot in the Cardinals rotation, and once again put together another solid start on Thursday night against the Mets, but a rough second inning was to much to overcome as the Redbirds fell 4-1 at Citi Field.&nbsp;

After only giving up a single to Fransisco Lindor in the first inning, Pallante surrendered a leadoff home run to&nbsp;Mark Vientos to open the second.&nbsp; Pallante appeared to settle down after the homer, getting Brandon Nimmo to ground out, but after that Starling Marte doubled, and following a groundout by Luis Torrens Marte scored on a single from Brett Baty.&nbsp; Tyrone Taylor singled in the next at bat, then Lindor singled again to score both Baty and Taylor, however Lindor was thrown out at second base by right fielder Jordan Walker to end the inning.&nbsp;

The Cardinals lone run in the third inning started with a Victor Scott II single to lead off the inning.&nbsp; Scott II stole second base, and after back to back strikeouts by Lars Nootbaar and Willson Contreras, Scott II moved to third on a wild pitch, then later scored with a single by Brendan Donovan.&nbsp; Donovan wound up stranded at first base though, Nolan Arenado grounding out to end the top of the third inning.&nbsp; After the rough second inning, Pallante settled in, giving up just one more hit through his remaining four innings of work.&nbsp;

Pallante took the loss, losing his first game of the year and moving to 2-1 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out two.&nbsp; Three Cardinals hitters each had one hit at the plate.&nbsp;

St. Louis and New York continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;David Peterson for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 6 on KY 102 (102.5FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAndre Pallante has been a bright spot in the Cardinals rotation, and once again put together another solid start on Thursday night against the Mets, but a rough second inning was to much to overcome as the Redbirds fell 4-1 at Citi Field.&nbsp;After only giving up a single to Fransisco Lindor in the first inning, Pallante surrendered a leadoff home run to&nbsp;Mark Vientos to open the second.&nbsp; Pallante appeared to settle down after the homer, getting Brandon Nimmo to ground out, but after that Starling Marte doubled, and following a groundout by Luis Torrens Marte scored on a single from Brett Baty.&nbsp; Tyrone Taylor singled in the next at bat, then Lindor singled again to score both Baty and Taylor, however Lindor was thrown out at second base by right fielder Jordan Walker to end the inning.&nbsp;The Cardinals lone run in the third inning started with a Victor Scott II single to lead off the inning.&nbsp; Scott II stole second base, and after back to back strikeouts by Lars Nootbaar and Willson Contreras, Scott II moved to third on a wild pitch, then later scored with a single by Brendan Donovan.&nbsp; Donovan wound up stranded at first base though, Nolan Arenado grounding out to end the top of the third inning.&nbsp; After the rough second inning, Pallante settled in, giving up just one more hit through his remaining four innings of work.&nbsp;Pallante took the loss, losing his first game of the year and moving to 2-1 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out two.&nbsp; Three Cardinals hitters each had one hit at the plate.&nbsp;St. Louis and New York continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;David Peterson for the Mets.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 6 on KY 102 (102.5FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pallante mostly solid, but Cardinals drop opener to Mets 4-1

The rough stretch continued for the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night as they dropped a fourth game in a row, opening a four game series to the Detroit Tigers with a 6-1 loss at Comerica Park.&nbsp;

Kansas City was unable to overcome a four run lead the Tigers built through the first five innings.&nbsp; A three run spot in the third started when Kerry Carpenter singled and&nbsp;Zach McKinstry walked, before a double from Spencer Torkelson drove both in.&nbsp; Torkelson later scored on a single from Riley Greene.&nbsp; In the fifth, Carpenter doubled, and McKinstry again walked, before Greene scored Carpenter with a single.&nbsp;

The Royals lone run in the top of the eighth inning came after Salvador Perez walked to open the inning, back to back singles from Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia drove Perez in to score.&nbsp; Detroit extended the lead in the bottom half however, Trey Sweeney singled and&nbsp;Ryan Kreidler walked before Gleyber Torres hit a single of his own to load the bases.&nbsp; After Carpenter struck out,&nbsp;McKinstry grounded into a forceout scoring Sweeney and then Torkelson brought in a run with a single, bringing home&nbsp;Kreidler.

Michael Lorenzen took the loss, falling to 1-3, pitching 4.2 innings and giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out three and walking three.&nbsp; Massey led the way hitting on the night going 3-4 at the plate.

Kansas City and Detroit continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Cole Ragans takes the mound for the Royals, looking to continue a streak of 10+ strikeout games, taking on&nbsp;Jackson Jobe for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe rough stretch continued for the Kansas City Royals on Thursday night as they dropped a fourth game in a row, opening a four game series to the Detroit Tigers with a 6-1 loss at Comerica Park.&nbsp;Kansas City was unable to overcome a four run lead the Tigers built through the first five innings.&nbsp; A three run spot in the third started when Kerry Carpenter singled and&nbsp;Zach McKinstry walked, before a double from Spencer Torkelson drove both in.&nbsp; Torkelson later scored on a single from Riley Greene.&nbsp; In the fifth, Carpenter doubled, and McKinstry again walked, before Greene scored Carpenter with a single.&nbsp;The Royals lone run in the top of the eighth inning came after Salvador Perez walked to open the inning, back to back singles from Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia drove Perez in to score.&nbsp; Detroit extended the lead in the bottom half however, Trey Sweeney singled and&nbsp;Ryan Kreidler walked before Gleyber Torres hit a single of his own to load the bases.&nbsp; After Carpenter struck out,&nbsp;McKinstry grounded into a forceout scoring Sweeney and then Torkelson brought in a run with a single, bringing home&nbsp;Kreidler.Michael Lorenzen took the loss, falling to 1-3, pitching 4.2 innings and giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out three and walking three.&nbsp; Massey led the way hitting on the night going 3-4 at the plate.Kansas City and Detroit continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Cole Ragans takes the mound for the Royals, looking to continue a streak of 10+ strikeout games, taking on&nbsp;Jackson Jobe for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals drop fourth in a row, lose to Tigers in opener 6-1

The newly branded St. Joseph Goats are bringing arena football back to the Civic Arena in downtown this summer. &nbsp;

The Goats played in Kansas City last year in their inaugural season and finished one game shy of competing for a championship and now hope to achieve that in St. Joseph. &nbsp;

Goats Head Coach Dorsey Golston says initially the move to St. Joseph caught him by surprise, but it's a move he's excited about.&nbsp;

"Spent a lot of time in St. Joe my whole life, I'm from Kansas City, Missouri, but me and my dad used to come up here a lot go fishing, so I'm kind of familiar with the city, the town, we'd come up here by Stetson's and all type of stuff like that," Golston tells reporters.&nbsp;

Golston says it's a great feeling to be a part of a sort of resurgence of sports and events happening at the Civic Arena&nbsp;

"I think the people of St. Joseph is going to enjoy holding what 2,500 here I think, we averaged around 23 last year, so you're going to have to come get your tickets early because we plan on packing this thing out," Golston says.&nbsp;

On the team again this year, is last year's league MVP. Boo Smith, a former wide receiver at Missouri, says he's excited about the team's new home in St. Joseph&nbsp;

"This is my first time in Civic Arena, I do know the history of it, but looking at it right now, it's going to be packed, I'm actually excited" Smith says.&nbsp; "Because I also know Missouri Western is just down the road and they have a good football fan base so just coming here with our success and the other fan base, I'm excited for it, I'm excited for sure."&nbsp;

Smith had 1,011 yards last year on 99 catches, and scored 33 touchdowns, and now looks to impress St. Joseph fans with his speedy playstyle. &nbsp;

Wide receiver Ryan Martinez says he hopes and expects to see the stands packed at Civic Arena this summer&nbsp;

"As long as the fans and everybody is behind us and the crowd, we bring from Kansas City, pretty sure we'll pack it out," Martinez says.&nbsp; "Because arena is a fun game, entertaining, it's really mostly meant for the fans because you get to jump in the crowd, throw balls, run around, eat people's popcorn, so it's really fun."&nbsp;

The first home game for the Goats is on June 7th.&nbsp; You can purchase tickets online for both individual games as well as the season.&nbsp; The season opens May 31st.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744929756979.jpeg" alt="The newly branded St. Joseph Goats unveiled their new look uniforms on Thursday during a press conference at Civic Arena/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The newly branded St. Joseph Goats unveiled their new look uniforms on Thursday during a press conference at Civic Arena/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The newly branded St. Joseph Goats are bringing arena football back to the Civic Arena in downtown this summer. &nbsp;The Goats played in Kansas City last year in their inaugural season and finished one game shy of competing for a championship and now hope to achieve that in St. Joseph. &nbsp;Goats Head Coach Dorsey Golston says initially the move to St. Joseph caught him by surprise, but it's a move he's excited about.&nbsp;"Spent a lot of time in St. Joe my whole life, I'm from Kansas City, Missouri, but me and my dad used to come up here a lot go fishing, so I'm kind of familiar with the city, the town, we'd come up here by Stetson's and all type of stuff like that," Golston tells reporters.&nbsp;Golston says it's a great feeling to be a part of a sort of resurgence of sports and events happening at the Civic Arena&nbsp;"I think the people of St. Joseph is going to enjoy holding what 2,500 here I think, we averaged around 23 last year, so you're going to have to come get your tickets early because we plan on packing this thing out," Golston says.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744929885613.jpeg" alt="Team President Ted Sweeney revealed Thursday&nbsp; during a press conference at Civic Arena that the Kansas City Goats will change their name to the St. Joseph Goats this season.&nbsp; They also unveiled new jersey's and a new logo for the upcoming arena football season/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Team President Ted Sweeney revealed Thursday&nbsp; during a press conference at Civic Arena that the Kansas City Goats will change their name to the St. Joseph Goats this season.&nbsp; They also unveiled new jersey's and a new logo for the upcoming arena football season/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>On the team again this year, is last year's league MVP. Boo Smith, a former wide receiver at Missouri, says he's excited about the team's new home in St. Joseph&nbsp;"This is my first time in Civic Arena, I do know the history of it, but looking at it right now, it's going to be packed, I'm actually excited" Smith says.&nbsp; "Because I also know Missouri Western is just down the road and they have a good football fan base so just coming here with our success and the other fan base, I'm excited for it, I'm excited for sure."&nbsp;Smith had 1,011 yards last year on 99 catches, and scored 33 touchdowns, and now looks to impress St. Joseph fans with his speedy playstyle. &nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Check out my Season Highlights‼️<a href="https://t.co/4i6wV81Ym8">https://t.co/4i6wV81Ym8</a> Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/ChiefsFocus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChiefsFocus</a> <a href="https://t.co/apM1z6k70U">pic.twitter.com/apM1z6k70U</a>&mdash; BooBoo Smith (@B_Smith400) <a href="https://twitter.com/B_Smith400/status/1825938880866169284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Wide receiver Ryan Martinez says he hopes and expects to see the stands packed at Civic Arena this summer&nbsp;"As long as the fans and everybody is behind us and the crowd, we bring from Kansas City, pretty sure we'll pack it out," Martinez says.&nbsp; "Because arena is a fun game, entertaining, it's really mostly meant for the fans because you get to jump in the crowd, throw balls, run around, eat people's popcorn, so it's really fun."&nbsp;The first home game for the Goats is on June 7th.&nbsp; You can purchase tickets online for both individual games as well as the season.&nbsp; The season opens May 31st.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744930210117.jpeg" alt="St Joseph Goats team President Ted Sweeney (right) shows off the new team logos on shirts worn by St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale (middle) and Goats dance coach, and Missouri Western student, Emily Crouse (left)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>St Joseph Goats team President Ted Sweeney (right) shows off the new team logos on shirts worn by St. Joseph Mayor John Josendale (middle) and Goats dance coach, and Missouri Western student, Emily Crouse (left)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

St. Joseph Goats arena football coming to Civic Arena this summer

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6BQ28y8WP8UJVATTKUQ7Vj?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Royals starting pitcher Kris Bubic continued putting together a strong 2025 season, leaving the Bronx with a 1.88 ERA on the season, but the Royals fell to the New York Yankees, and were swept in the series, losing 4-3 on Wednesday night.&nbsp;

For a second game in a row, Kansas City did take the lead first in the game, this time in the first inning.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr singled after Jonathan India flew out to open the game, and after Vinnie Pasquantino walked advancing Witt Jr to second base, the star shortstop scored on a single into left field by Salvador Perez.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bubic, who struck out six batters in the game, recorded three of those through the first two innings, and struck out Cody Bellinger in the third inning before the Yankees took the lead back with two outs.&nbsp; Aaron Judge doubled followed by a walk to Jazz Chisolm Jr, before Anthony Volpe drove in both runners with an RBI double into left field.&nbsp; New York added another run in the fourth inning, an RBI double by Bellinger driving in&nbsp;Oswald Peraza.

The Royals did save Bubic from suffering a loss though, scoring two runs to tie the game up in the fifth inning.&nbsp; Drew Waters opened the inning with a single, but Tyler Tolbert followed that with a lineout to center field, despite that Waters still scored on the next batter as Kyle Isbel hit his first triple of the season, then scored himself on the next batter as India grounded out to Volpe bringing Isbel home to knot the game up at three.

John Schreiber replaced Bubic in the sixth inning after the starter recorded one out, and then came back out to pitch in the seventh, immediately giving the lead back to New York surrendering a solo home run to Judge into center field, which ended up being all the Yankees needed for the win.

Bubic pitched 5.1 innings striking out six and giving up three runs on seven hits, walking four batters in the no decision.&nbsp; Schreiber took the loss going 0.2 innings, only giving up one hit, the home run to Judge.&nbsp; Five different Royals recorded one hit each.&nbsp;

Kansas City now heads to Detroit on a three game losing streak to take on the Tigers in a four game series.&nbsp;&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen starts for the Royals to open the series against&nbsp;Reese Olson for Detroit.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostRoyals starting pitcher Kris Bubic continued putting together a strong 2025 season, leaving the Bronx with a 1.88 ERA on the season, but the Royals fell to the New York Yankees, and were swept in the series, losing 4-3 on Wednesday night.&nbsp;For a second game in a row, Kansas City did take the lead first in the game, this time in the first inning.&nbsp; Bobby Witt Jr singled after Jonathan India flew out to open the game, and after Vinnie Pasquantino walked advancing Witt Jr to second base, the star shortstop scored on a single into left field by Salvador Perez.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bubic, who struck out six batters in the game, recorded three of those through the first two innings, and struck out Cody Bellinger in the third inning before the Yankees took the lead back with two outs.&nbsp; Aaron Judge doubled followed by a walk to Jazz Chisolm Jr, before Anthony Volpe drove in both runners with an RBI double into left field.&nbsp; New York added another run in the fourth inning, an RBI double by Bellinger driving in&nbsp;Oswald Peraza.The Royals did save Bubic from suffering a loss though, scoring two runs to tie the game up in the fifth inning.&nbsp; Drew Waters opened the inning with a single, but Tyler Tolbert followed that with a lineout to center field, despite that Waters still scored on the next batter as Kyle Isbel hit his first triple of the season, then scored himself on the next batter as India grounded out to Volpe bringing Isbel home to knot the game up at three.John Schreiber replaced Bubic in the sixth inning after the starter recorded one out, and then came back out to pitch in the seventh, immediately giving the lead back to New York surrendering a solo home run to Judge into center field, which ended up being all the Yankees needed for the win.Bubic pitched 5.1 innings striking out six and giving up three runs on seven hits, walking four batters in the no decision.&nbsp; Schreiber took the loss going 0.2 innings, only giving up one hit, the home run to Judge.&nbsp; Five different Royals recorded one hit each.&nbsp;Kansas City now heads to Detroit on a three game losing streak to take on the Tigers in a four game series.&nbsp;&nbsp;Michael Lorenzen starts for the Royals to open the series against&nbsp;Reese Olson for Detroit.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bubic's strong '25 continues, but Royals swept by Yankees falling 4-3

Lars Nootbaar crushed a big three run home run as the St. Louis Cardinals broke through in the fifth inning to take a series win from the Houston Astros, winning 4-1 on Wednesday afternoon at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;

The Astros scored their lone run of the game in the first inning, getting to starting pitcher Steven Matz in his first start of the season right away.&nbsp; Jose Altuve singled to lead off the game, which was followed by a single from&nbsp;Jeremy Peña, Altuve going first to third and&nbsp;Peña advancing to second on the throw.&nbsp; A ground out by&nbsp;Isaac Paredes drove in Altuve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

From there, Matz settled in and retired the next 14 batters he faced, pitching a solid five innings before handing it off to the bullpen and reliever&nbsp;Ryan Fernandez.&nbsp; Fernandez,&nbsp;Kyle Leahy,&nbsp;Phil Maton, and&nbsp;Ryan Helsley combined to give up just two more hits the rest of the game.&nbsp;

St. Louis got that clutch home run from Nootbaar in the fifth inning to take the lead.&nbsp; Victor Scott II and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese hit back to back singles to open the inning, before Nootbaar crushed the ball 418 feet to center field for his third home run of the season.&nbsp; The Redbirds added the final run the very next inning&nbsp;Saggese hitting an RBI double to score Jordan Walker.&nbsp;

In his first start of the season, Matz earned his first win as well pitching five innings and striking out five batters, giving up one run on two hits.&nbsp; Helsley earned his third save of the season, walking one batter but giving up no hits.&nbsp; At the plate,&nbsp;Saggese led the way going 2-4 with one RBI, while Nootbaar was 1-3 with the home run, three RBI's and two walks.

St. Louis begins a new series tomorrow, hitting the road once again for a four game series with the New York Mets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Andre Pallante opens the series for the Cardinals, looking to improve to 3-0, the Mets starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10, pregame will be joined at 6 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744834098313.jpeg" alt="Cardinals outfielder Victor Scott II (11) celebrates in the dugout after scoring on Lars Nootbaar's go ahead three run home run/ Photo courtesy of the Cardinals on X" />
 <figcaption>Cardinals outfielder Victor Scott II (11) celebrates in the dugout after scoring on Lars Nootbaar's go ahead three run home run/ Photo courtesy of the Cardinals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLars Nootbaar crushed a big three run home run as the St. Louis Cardinals broke through in the fifth inning to take a series win from the Houston Astros, winning 4-1 on Wednesday afternoon at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;The Astros scored their lone run of the game in the first inning, getting to starting pitcher Steven Matz in his first start of the season right away.&nbsp; Jose Altuve singled to lead off the game, which was followed by a single from&nbsp;Jeremy Peña, Altuve going first to third and&nbsp;Peña advancing to second on the throw.&nbsp; A ground out by&nbsp;Isaac Paredes drove in Altuve.&nbsp;&nbsp;From there, Matz settled in and retired the next 14 batters he faced, pitching a solid five innings before handing it off to the bullpen and reliever&nbsp;Ryan Fernandez.&nbsp; Fernandez,&nbsp;Kyle Leahy,&nbsp;Phil Maton, and&nbsp;Ryan Helsley combined to give up just two more hits the rest of the game.&nbsp;St. Louis got that clutch home run from Nootbaar in the fifth inning to take the lead.&nbsp; Victor Scott II and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese hit back to back singles to open the inning, before Nootbaar crushed the ball 418 feet to center field for his third home run of the season.&nbsp; The Redbirds added the final run the very next inning&nbsp;Saggese hitting an RBI double to score Jordan Walker.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NOOOOOOOOOT!!! 💣 <a href="https://t.co/0NoGCZxsAX">pic.twitter.com/0NoGCZxsAX</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1912574228865446103?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In his first start of the season, Matz earned his first win as well pitching five innings and striking out five batters, giving up one run on two hits.&nbsp; Helsley earned his third save of the season, walking one batter but giving up no hits.&nbsp; At the plate,&nbsp;Saggese led the way going 2-4 with one RBI, while Nootbaar was 1-3 with the home run, three RBI's and two walks.St. Louis begins a new series tomorrow, hitting the road once again for a four game series with the New York Mets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Andre Pallante opens the series for the Cardinals, looking to improve to 3-0, the Mets starter is listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10, pregame will be joined at 6 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;