KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Elehuris Montero’s two-run triple highlighted Colorado’s five-run first inning and the Rockies hung on for a 6-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.

Matt Carasiti (1-0) earned the win with 2 1/3 innings in relief of starter Austin Gomber, who allowed a pair of runs on six hits and three walks over 2 2/3 innings. Justin Lawrence recorded four outs for his second save.

“To win a game like that, when you go to the bullpen in the third inning, you need your relievers to all step up,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “They all did a nice job.”

Carasiti’s win was his first since Aug. 19, 2016, his only other major league victory.

“Honestly, I didn’t even really realize it,” Carasiti said. “But, it does feel good. It means a lot, helping the team win.”

The Rockies’ first three hitters reached safely in the first, with Charlie Blackmon — who was hit by a pitch to lead off the game — scoring on Ryan McMahon’s soft liner over shortstop. McMahon is hitting .487 (19 for 39) with 15 RBIs in his last 10 games.

Randal Grichuk’s one-out single added another run before Montero tripled down the right-field line, scoring two more. Montero scored on Brenton Doyle’s sacrifice fly for a 5-0 lead.

“That was a good inning for us,” Montero said. “We took advantage and executed when we needed to. It gave us confidence going into the rest of the game.”

“We caught a couple of breaks right off the bat,” Black said. “(Blackmon) got hit and (McMahon), sort of a soft liner, and we just kept going from there. We made contact. You put the ball in play, a lot of good things can happen.”

Royals starter Daniel Lynch (0-1) threw 38 pitches in the laborious first inning, then settled in to complete five innings. He allowed five runs, three earned, and six hits with seven strikeouts and one walk.

“Hits like that are going to happen,” Lynch said. “I tried to stay within my control and keep on attacking guys. I felt like I did that, but I put myself in a hole hitting the first guy.”

Colorado added a run in the sixth on Blackmon’s RBI hit as Kansas City reliever Josh Staumont walked three in the frame.

Nick Pratto’s third home run, a 438-foot solo shot to right, got the Royals on the board in the first. It was Pratto’s first career leadoff homer.

Bobby Witt Jr. had three singles for Kansas City but also committed a first-inning error that led to two unearned runs. He was also picked off third base ahead of Maikel Garcia’s RBI hit in the third inning which cut Colorado’s lead to 5-2.

“Bobby just tried to be too quick on the double-play ball,” Quatraro said. “I don’t know if we get (Jurickson) Profar on that.”

Drew Waters’ RBI single in the eighth made it 6-3. Salvador Perez’s two-out single in the ninth capped the scoring.

The Royals have lost 14 of 19 and are 8-23 at home.

Colorado LHP Kyle Freeland (4-6, 4.22 ERA) opposes RHP Brady Singer (3-4, 7.12) in Sunday’s series finale.

First pitch is set for 1:10, with pregame coverage beginning at 12:30 on KFEQ.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Elehuris Montero’s two-run triple highlighted Colorado’s five-run first inning and the Rockies hung on for a 6-4 win over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday.Matt Carasiti (1-0) earned the win with 2 1/3 innings in relief of starter Austin Gomber, who allowed a pair of runs on six hits and three walks over 2 2/3 innings. Justin Lawrence recorded four outs for his second save.“To win a game like that, when you go to the bullpen in the third inning, you need your relievers to all step up,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “They all did a nice job.”Carasiti’s win was his first since Aug. 19, 2016, his only other major league victory.“Honestly, I didn’t even really realize it,” Carasiti said. “But, it does feel good. It means a lot, helping the team win.”The Rockies’ first three hitters reached safely in the first, with Charlie Blackmon — who was hit by a pitch to lead off the game — scoring on Ryan McMahon’s soft liner over shortstop. McMahon is hitting .487 (19 for 39) with 15 RBIs in his last 10 games.Randal Grichuk’s one-out single added another run before Montero tripled down the right-field line, scoring two more. Montero scored on Brenton Doyle’s sacrifice fly for a 5-0 lead.“That was a good inning for us,” Montero said. “We took advantage and executed when we needed to. It gave us confidence going into the rest of the game.”“We caught a couple of breaks right off the bat,” Black said. “(Blackmon) got hit and (McMahon), sort of a soft liner, and we just kept going from there. We made contact. You put the ball in play, a lot of good things can happen.”Royals starter Daniel Lynch (0-1) threw 38 pitches in the laborious first inning, then settled in to complete five innings. He allowed five runs, three earned, and six hits with seven strikeouts and one walk.“Hits like that are going to happen,” Lynch said. “I tried to stay within my control and keep on attacking guys. I felt like I did that, but I put myself in a hole hitting the first guy.”Colorado added a run in the sixth on Blackmon’s RBI hit as Kansas City reliever Josh Staumont walked three in the frame.Nick Pratto’s third home run, a 438-foot solo shot to right, got the Royals on the board in the first. It was Pratto’s first career leadoff homer.Bobby Witt Jr. had three singles for Kansas City but also committed a first-inning error that led to two unearned runs. He was also picked off third base ahead of Maikel Garcia’s RBI hit in the third inning which cut Colorado’s lead to 5-2.“Bobby just tried to be too quick on the double-play ball,” Quatraro said. “I don’t know if we get (Jurickson) Profar on that.”Drew Waters’ RBI single in the eighth made it 6-3. Salvador Perez’s two-out single in the ninth capped the scoring.The Royals have lost 14 of 19 and are 8-23 at home.Colorado LHP Kyle Freeland (4-6, 4.22 ERA) opposes RHP Brady Singer (3-4, 7.12) in Sunday’s series finale.First pitch is set for 1:10, with pregame coverage beginning at 12:30 on KFEQ.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685877737927.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals Nick Pratto (32) is congratulated by Bobby Witt Jr. (7) at home plate after hitting a home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Colorado Rockies in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, June 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals Nick Pratto (32) is congratulated by Bobby Witt Jr. (7) at home plate after hitting a home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Colorado Rockies in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, June 3, 2023. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Royals fall to Rockies 4-6 after 5-run first inning

The St. Joseph Mustangs are off to a hot start to the season, remaining unbeaten through three games, though one was rain shortened, defeating the Nevada Griffons 5-2 Saturday night. 

It took a rally for the Mustangs though, as the Griffons after one inning led 2-0, both runs scoring on a single from Nevada's Sam Kwapnioksi.  But Mustangs pitcher Andrew Clark would lock it down after that, throwing five scoreless innings before he was replaced by Brandon Stone, who pitched the final three innings.

St. Joseph would finally get on the board in the sixth thanks to a single from third baseman Mason Holton, which would drive in current Northwest Missouri State Bearcat and Lafayette alumni Cole Slibowski. 

After six innings of one run baseball, the Griffons would pull starter Gage Haynes, and the Mustangs would go on to tee off on reliever Jacob Strobel for four runs, with RBI's coming from Savannah alumni Noah Bodenhausen, Michael Paule, and two more runs were driven in by Holton

Both Clark and Stone recorded six strikeouts and gave up two walks on the night.  Holton was 2 for 4 with the 3 RBI's. 

The Mustangs are now 2-o on the season, and 1-0 in MINK league play.  The Mustangs will be in action against Nevada again on Sunday, this time on the road, with first pitch set for 7pm.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs are off to a hot start to the season, remaining unbeaten through three games, though one was rain shortened, defeating the Nevada Griffons 5-2 Saturday night. It took a rally for the Mustangs though, as the Griffons after one inning led 2-0, both runs scoring on a single from Nevada's Sam Kwapnioksi. But Mustangs pitcher Andrew Clark would lock it down after that, throwing five scoreless innings before he was replaced by Brandon Stone, who pitched the final three innings.St. Joseph would finally get on the board in the sixth thanks to a single from third baseman Mason Holton, which would drive in current Northwest Missouri State Bearcat and Lafayette alumni Cole Slibowski. After six innings of one run baseball, the Griffons would pull starter Gage Haynes, and the Mustangs would go on to tee off on reliever Jacob Strobel for four runs, with RBI's coming from Savannah alumni Noah Bodenhausen, Michael Paule, and two more runs were driven in by HoltonBoth Clark and Stone recorded six strikeouts and gave up two walks on the night. Holton was 2 for 4 with the 3 RBI's. The Mustangs are now 2-o on the season, and 1-0 in MINK league play. The Mustangs will be in action against Nevada again on Sunday, this time on the road, with first pitch set for 7pm.

Mustangs come back late to stay undefeated beating Nevada 5-2

FENTON - For the second day in a row, Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer gave it all they had. Until there was literally nothing left to give.

The Golden Eagles (14-7), playing in hot, sunny conditions on a turf field that was north of 110 degrees Fahrenheit, fought until the bitter end, but fell to Saxony Lutheran, 2-1, in the Class 1 third place match at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

With a bench that was thinning out by the end, and a couple of players out with ailments, head coach Chad Thompson couldn't have asked for more.

"There toward the last five minutes, we didn't have anybody to sub," he said. "It was, 'If that one's tired, you go back there and hang out.&nbsp; You drop back here where we're being pressured.' I don't even know...you know, how do you condition for it?"

LeBlond had a much better offensive attack Saturday, getting a handful of looks at a goal in the first half, but Saxony (13-9) held the Eagles scoreless through the first 40 minutes.

It appeared the match was headed for a scoreless first half, but Saxony's Abigail Haley scored the first goal after collecting a long pass from the midfield and beating defender Emersyn Lenz to the goal line.

The Crusaders led 1-0 with 2:14 to play in the first half.

LeBlond had a quick answer in the second half. The Eagles passed the ball around the top of the 18-yard-box a few times. When it came to senior Emerson McChristy, who had a clean look down the middle, she kicked the ball into the air and buried it to knot the match at 1-1 with 34:07 to go. Allie Welter was credited with the assist.

"It was really exciting getting a goal in my last game," McChristy said. "I saw Kendall (Cathcart) constantly crossing her man. I just thought, 'One's going to come. I just have to get it in.'"

It was a tightly contested match from that point on, with possession changing hands quite often. Saxony, though, scored the go-ahead goal with just over 20 minutes left.

Maggie Hillin navigated through traffic in the box and shot the ball high and fast, just over the hands of keeper Maddie Sego and just under the crossbar to put the Crusaders back in front 2-1.

LeBlond had a couple of threats going late, but ultimately, any attempt at a tying goal was nullified.

The Eagles finished with four shots-on-goal after none against Father Tolton the day before. Sego had another strong day in the goal with eight saves.

Saturday's match marked the final outing for McChristy and fellow seniors Tatum Studer, Emma Raines and Maddie Angold. Reserve Mary King also suited up in a LeBlond uniform for the final time.

"It was definitely amazing," said Studer, a team captain. "Especially with a young and charismatic group. I believe they could probably do it again next year if they really wanted to. Not the outcome we wanted, but still, state. Amazing finish and just really proud of everybody."

With nine starters set to come back next year, and with history made this year in the program's first Final Four, Thompson can't help but be excited when he looks to the future of LeBlond soccer.

"We had six freshmen out on varsity," Thompson said. "Five of them start. Six of them are on the field a ton. It gives me goosebumps thinking about next year."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685814620868.jpeg" alt="Emersyn McChristy (middle) celebrates after scoring a goal early in the second half of Saturday's third place match against Saxony Lutheran. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Emersyn McChristy (middle) celebrates after scoring a goal early in the second half of Saturday's third place match against Saxony Lutheran. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFENTON - For the second day in a row, Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer gave it all they had. Until there was literally nothing left to give.The Golden Eagles (14-7), playing in hot, sunny conditions on a turf field that was north of 110 degrees Fahrenheit, fought until the bitter end, but fell to Saxony Lutheran, 2-1, in the Class 1 third place match at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.With a bench that was thinning out by the end, and a couple of players out with ailments, head coach Chad Thompson couldn't have asked for more."There toward the last five minutes, we didn't have anybody to sub," he said. "It was, 'If that one's tired, you go back there and hang out.&nbsp; You drop back here where we're being pressured.' I don't even know...you know, how do you condition for it?"LeBlond had a much better offensive attack Saturday, getting a handful of looks at a goal in the first half, but Saxony (13-9) held the Eagles scoreless through the first 40 minutes.It appeared the match was headed for a scoreless first half, but Saxony's Abigail Haley scored the first goal after collecting a long pass from the midfield and beating defender Emersyn Lenz to the goal line.The Crusaders led 1-0 with 2:14 to play in the first half.LeBlond had a quick answer in the second half. The Eagles passed the ball around the top of the 18-yard-box a few times. When it came to senior Emerson McChristy, who had a clean look down the middle, she kicked the ball into the air and buried it to knot the match at 1-1 with 34:07 to go. Allie Welter was credited with the assist."It was really exciting getting a goal in my last game," McChristy said. "I saw Kendall (Cathcart) constantly crossing her man. I just thought, 'One's going to come. I just have to get it in.'"It was a tightly contested match from that point on, with possession changing hands quite often. Saxony, though, scored the go-ahead goal with just over 20 minutes left.Maggie Hillin navigated through traffic in the box and shot the ball high and fast, just over the hands of keeper Maddie Sego and just under the crossbar to put the Crusaders back in front 2-1.LeBlond had a couple of threats going late, but ultimately, any attempt at a tying goal was nullified.The Eagles finished with four shots-on-goal after none against Father Tolton the day before. Sego had another strong day in the goal with eight saves.Saturday's match marked the final outing for McChristy and fellow seniors Tatum Studer, Emma Raines and Maddie Angold. Reserve Mary King also suited up in a LeBlond uniform for the final time."It was definitely amazing," said Studer, a team captain. "Especially with a young and charismatic group. I believe they could probably do it again next year if they really wanted to. Not the outcome we wanted, but still, state. Amazing finish and just really proud of everybody."With nine starters set to come back next year, and with history made this year in the program's first Final Four, Thompson can't help but be excited when he looks to the future of LeBlond soccer."We had six freshmen out on varsity," Thompson said. "Five of them start. Six of them are on the field a ton. It gives me goosebumps thinking about next year."Interviews<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-soccer-coach-Chad-Thompson-e255tqf" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-senior--team-captain-Tatum-Studer-e255trg" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/LeBlond-senior-Emerson-McChristy-e255tt1" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Photos<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815705427.jpeg" alt="Brensley Fox (7)." />
 <figcaption>Brensley Fox (7).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815722439.jpeg" alt="Emily Weddle (4) takes a shot in the first half." />
 <figcaption>Emily Weddle (4) takes a shot in the first half.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815737249.jpeg" alt="Kinsley Hazelwood (13)." />
 <figcaption>Kinsley Hazelwood (13).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815765708.jpeg" alt="Lindsey Wright-Atha takes a shot in the second half." />
 <figcaption>Lindsey Wright-Atha takes a shot in the second half.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815781399.jpeg" alt="Tatum Studer." />
 <figcaption>Tatum Studer.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685815812015.jpeg" alt="Maddie Sego (00) makes a save in the first half." />
 <figcaption>Maddie Sego (00) makes a save in the first half.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685816337674.jpeg" alt="Tatum Studer and Emerson McChristy with the trophy." />
 <figcaption>Tatum Studer and Emerson McChristy with the trophy.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685816364859.jpeg" alt="Coach Chad Thompson receives the medals for the team." />
 <figcaption>Coach Chad Thompson receives the medals for the team.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond girls' soccer fights hard against Saxony Lutheran, Eagles come home 4th

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan McMahon homered in the first inning and hit a go-ahead single in a six-run eighth to lead the Colorado Rockies over the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Friday night and stop a four-game losing streak.

Elias Díaz and Nolan Jones hit two-run doubles in the eighth, among six hits by the Rockies in the inning. McMahon has reached safely in 11 consecutive games, batting .425 (17 for 40) with five homers and 15 RBIs.

Kansas City has lost nine of 12, dropping to 17-40.

Brent Suter (4-0) allowed one hit over two scoreless innings.

Justin Lawrence struck out Jackie Bradley Jr. with the bases loaded for his second career save and first this year.

After McMahon’s first-inning homer, Lyles retired 13 of his next 15 batters. He allowed two hits over five innings, striking out eight.

Lyles has allowed runs in the first inning of 10 of 12 starts, giving up 15 runs in the first.

“He threw the ball great,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He worked the ball up and down in the zone. It was a really positive outing.”

Kansas City built a 2-1 lead on homers by Edward Olivares in the second and Drew Waters in the third. Both were off Chase Anderson, who gave up four hits in six innings.

“Obviously wish I could have a couple of pitches back,” Anderson said. “The lazy curveball to Olivares and then the first pitch to Waters weren’t great pitches.”

Brenton Doyle singled and Ezequiel Tovar doubled off Carlos Hernández (0-3) starting the eighth. Jurickson Profar tied the score with a run-scoring groundout and McMahon looped an opposite-field single into left for a 3-2 lead. Nick Wittgren relieved, and Díaz doubled on his first pitch for a three-run advantage.

“They don’t all have to be pretty. They just have to work,” McMahon said. “The guy throws really hard. Just tried to battle and put a ball in play. Honestly, it doesn’t matter how it happens, it just matters that it does happen.”

Royals LHP Amir Garrett was placed on the 15-day IL, retroactive to Tuesday, with left elbow valgus extension overload.

Royals RHP Jackson Kowar was recalled from Triple-A Omaha.

Colorado LHP Austin Gomber (4-4, 7.00 ERA) opposes LHP Daniel Lynch (0-0, 3.38) on Saturday.&nbsp;

First Pitch for Saturday is set for 3:10, with pregame starting at 2:30 on KFEQ.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Ryan McMahon homered in the first inning and hit a go-ahead single in a six-run eighth to lead the Colorado Rockies over the Kansas City Royals 7-2 on Friday night and stop a four-game losing streak.Elias Díaz and Nolan Jones hit two-run doubles in the eighth, among six hits by the Rockies in the inning. McMahon has reached safely in 11 consecutive games, batting .425 (17 for 40) with five homers and 15 RBIs.Kansas City has lost nine of 12, dropping to 17-40.Brent Suter (4-0) allowed one hit over two scoreless innings.Justin Lawrence struck out Jackie Bradley Jr. with the bases loaded for his second career save and first this year.After McMahon’s first-inning homer, Lyles retired 13 of his next 15 batters. He allowed two hits over five innings, striking out eight.Lyles has allowed runs in the first inning of 10 of 12 starts, giving up 15 runs in the first.“He threw the ball great,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He worked the ball up and down in the zone. It was a really positive outing.”Kansas City built a 2-1 lead on homers by Edward Olivares in the second and Drew Waters in the third. Both were off Chase Anderson, who gave up four hits in six innings.“Obviously wish I could have a couple of pitches back,” Anderson said. “The lazy curveball to Olivares and then the first pitch to Waters weren’t great pitches.”Brenton Doyle singled and Ezequiel Tovar doubled off Carlos Hernández (0-3) starting the eighth. Jurickson Profar tied the score with a run-scoring groundout and McMahon looped an opposite-field single into left for a 3-2 lead. Nick Wittgren relieved, and Díaz doubled on his first pitch for a three-run advantage.“They don’t all have to be pretty. They just have to work,” McMahon said. “The guy throws really hard. Just tried to battle and put a ball in play. Honestly, it doesn’t matter how it happens, it just matters that it does happen.”Royals LHP Amir Garrett was placed on the 15-day IL, retroactive to Tuesday, with left elbow valgus extension overload.Royals RHP Jackson Kowar was recalled from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTColorado LHP Austin Gomber (4-4, 7.00 ERA) opposes LHP Daniel Lynch (0-0, 3.38) on Saturday.&nbsp;First Pitch for Saturday is set for 3:10, with pregame starting at 2:30 on KFEQ.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685792887834.jpeg" alt="Colorado Rockies' Harold Castro (30) runs home to score on a two-run double by Nolan Jones during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals Friday, June 2, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Colorado Rockies' Harold Castro (30) runs home to score on a two-run double by Nolan Jones during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals Friday, June 2, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Royals fall in Rockies series opener 7-2

FENTON - Bishop LeBlond had trouble getting any offensive attack going against Father Tolton on Friday.

Heck, the Golden Eagles were held without a single shot-on-goal in the match.

Yet, LeBlond was in contention until the end. Junior goalkeeper Maddie Sego was a big reason for that. Despite Sego's 13 saves, LeBlond fell 1-0 against Father Tolton in a Class 1 girls' state semifinal at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton on a warm and steamy afternoon.

"I'm super proud of all of my teammates," Sego said. "We gave it our all, we tried our hardest. I think we'll come out of this feeling pretty good."

From the very start, Tolton (17-8-1) kept control of the ball and kept the attack on LeBlond's side of the pitch. The Eagles, though, managed to keep it scoreless through the first 52 minutes of play.

The Trailblazers, who were held scoreless in the first half despite nine shots-on-goal, scored on their first shot attempt of the second half when senior Macie Parmer launched the ball into the air, straight over the middle of the 18-yard box, and high into the back of the net.

The Trailblazers had 14 shots-on-goal through the whole match and also six corner kicks. But with their backs against the wall, Sego and the Golden Eagles defense did all they could to give themselves a chance.

"We could critique a lot of things, but the effort they put in today, you can't take anything away from them there," LeBlond head coach Chad Thompson said. "They struggled quite a bit just getting a passing game going. We played a lot of (goal) clearance and that's hard to control."

Offensively, LeBlond had an early opportunity with their only corner kick of the match coming just 13 minutes into the first half. Tolton had it covered up, though, and no shot came from it.

The Trailblazers kept LeBlond's strikers out of contention the entire time, as Tolton controlled the passes and tempo on offense.

"Father Tolton kept the pressure high on us and kept their team pushed up," Thompson said. "It's hard to transition out of that. Our defense and Maddie Sego had a phenomenal game. That was the best game (Maddie) had of her career this year."

"I was just a wall, I guess," Sego said. "I wasn't going to let anything get by me and I knew my teammates had my side and...yeah."

The conditions weren't ideal either, as afternoon highs touched 90 degrees in Fenton. On artificial turf, that feels like 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. There were mandatory water breaks in each half.

LeBlond has about 20 or so hours to rest and replenish. The Golden Eagles will face Saxony Lutheran (12-9) for third place on Saturday at 10 a.m.

Given the fact this is LeBlond's first ever Final Four in girls' soccer, and given the fact that the Golden Eagles have five freshmen in their starting lineup, there's nothing this team has to hang their head about after a tough effort on Friday came up a little short.

"We're going to drink plenty of fluids," Thompson said. "We're going to try and have a little fun. See the (Gateway) Arch and walk around a little bit. For the seniors, this is our last 'hoorah' as a team, and we're going to try to go make it memorable and fun."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685734378948.jpeg" alt="Bishop LeBlond goalie Maddie Sego dives to make a save in the second half. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bishop LeBlond goalie Maddie Sego dives to make a save in the second half. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFENTON - Bishop LeBlond had trouble getting any offensive attack going against Father Tolton on Friday.Heck, the Golden Eagles were held without a single shot-on-goal in the match.Yet, LeBlond was in contention until the end. Junior goalkeeper Maddie Sego was a big reason for that. Despite Sego's 13 saves, LeBlond fell 1-0 against Father Tolton in a Class 1 girls' state semifinal at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton on a warm and steamy afternoon."I'm super proud of all of my teammates," Sego said. "We gave it our all, we tried our hardest. I think we'll come out of this feeling pretty good."From the very start, Tolton (17-8-1) kept control of the ball and kept the attack on LeBlond's side of the pitch. The Eagles, though, managed to keep it scoreless through the first 52 minutes of play.The Trailblazers, who were held scoreless in the first half despite nine shots-on-goal, scored on their first shot attempt of the second half when senior Macie Parmer launched the ball into the air, straight over the middle of the 18-yard box, and high into the back of the net.Tolton led 1-0 with 28:03 remaining.The Trailblazers had 14 shots-on-goal through the whole match and also six corner kicks. But with their backs against the wall, Sego and the Golden Eagles defense did all they could to give themselves a chance."We could critique a lot of things, but the effort they put in today, you can't take anything away from them there," LeBlond head coach Chad Thompson said. "They struggled quite a bit just getting a passing game going. We played a lot of (goal) clearance and that's hard to control."Offensively, LeBlond had an early opportunity with their only corner kick of the match coming just 13 minutes into the first half. Tolton had it covered up, though, and no shot came from it.The Trailblazers kept LeBlond's strikers out of contention the entire time, as Tolton controlled the passes and tempo on offense."Father Tolton kept the pressure high on us and kept their team pushed up," Thompson said. "It's hard to transition out of that. Our defense and Maddie Sego had a phenomenal game. That was the best game (Maddie) had of her career this year.""I was just a wall, I guess," Sego said. "I wasn't going to let anything get by me and I knew my teammates had my side and...yeah."The conditions weren't ideal either, as afternoon highs touched 90 degrees in Fenton. On artificial turf, that feels like 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. There were mandatory water breaks in each half.LeBlond has about 20 or so hours to rest and replenish. The Golden Eagles will face Saxony Lutheran (12-9) for third place on Saturday at 10 a.m.Given the fact this is LeBlond's first ever Final Four in girls' soccer, and given the fact that the Golden Eagles have five freshmen in their starting lineup, there's nothing this team has to hang their head about after a tough effort on Friday came up a little short."We're going to drink plenty of fluids," Thompson said. "We're going to try and have a little fun. See the (Gateway) Arch and walk around a little bit. For the seniors, this is our last 'hoorah' as a team, and we're going to try to go make it memorable and fun."Pictures<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736597785.jpeg" alt="Allie Welter." />
 <figcaption>Allie Welter.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736613943.jpeg" alt="Brensley Fox." />
 <figcaption>Brensley Fox.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736626827.jpeg" alt="Carly Woods." />
 <figcaption>Carly Woods.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736642017.jpeg" alt="Emersyn McChristy (left)." />
 <figcaption>Emersyn McChristy (left).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736656279.jpeg" alt="Kinsley Hazelwood." />
 <figcaption>Kinsley Hazelwood.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736683890.jpeg" alt="Maddie Sego with a first half save." />
 <figcaption>Maddie Sego with a first half save.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736702989.jpeg" alt="Murphy King." />
 <figcaption>Murphy King.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685736718363.jpeg" alt="Tatum Studer." />
 <figcaption>Tatum Studer.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond falls to Father Tolton in state soccer semifinals, Eagles play for third Saturday

It’s been a banner year for Bishop LeBlond athletics, and it’s not quite over yet.

The Golden Eagles’ girls’ soccer team looks to put their name in lights as they compete in the Class 1 Final Four this Friday and Saturday in Fenton.

"We're stoked up about going out and proving ourselves," LeBlond head soccer coach Chad Thompson said. "There's been a lot of talk and everything over the past couple of years. I'm hoping we prove ourselves right."

 This is the fourth LeBlond team in this academic year alone to compete for a state championship, joining football, girls’ basketball and boys’ golf.

Thompson says these teams all have something in common.

"Everyone has a really, really good work ethic and they enjoy it," he said. "They're not doing it, because their friend is. Or, because Mom told them to or Dad told them they have to do something. They're out here, because they love the game."

LeBlond girls’ soccer (14-5) comes into this Final Four on a seven-match winning streak, most recently knocking off Barstow 2-1 in a state quarterfinal thriller this past Saturday.&nbsp;

Freshman Katie Sego scored what ended up being the go-ahead goal with 29:33 left in that match.

"Everyone has stepped up when they needed to on the field," Sego said. "It helped us all to grow with our connections, with our passing and talking. It really just helps a lot."

Sego is one of six freshmen on this year's varsity roster that was thrust into a bigger role this season with injuries popping up. Senior defender and Culver-Stockton soccer signee Emma Raines has been out all season due to an injury sustained in basketball season.

Defenders Charley Elliott and Maddie Angold have also had to miss significant time this spring.

Despite some hardships, outgoing senior and midfielder Emersyn McChristy has noticed just how hard the underclassmen have worked to fill the gaps.

"They've been doing good, learning quickly on how to fill those roles that we've lost people in," McChristy said. "They've grown together with us and have stepped up a lot."

Those adjustments and that growth have led LeBlond to their first Final Four appearance in program history. The Golden Eagles will first face Father Tolton (16-8-1) in state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park.

Villa Duchesne (9-11) and Saxony Lutheran (12-8) is the other semifinal matchup. LeBlond will play on Saturday - either for third place at 10 a.m. or for the grand prize at 11 a.m.

Whatever happens, whoever they play, Thompson says the goal this weekend is relatively simple.

"We're going down to have fun and play the best soccer we can play," he stated. "If we play the best soccer we can play, everything will be fine."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685668267465.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt’s been a banner year for Bishop LeBlond athletics, and it’s not quite over yet.The Golden Eagles’ girls’ soccer team looks to put their name in lights as they compete in the Class 1 Final Four this Friday and Saturday in Fenton."We're stoked up about going out and proving ourselves," LeBlond head soccer coach Chad Thompson said. "There's been a lot of talk and everything over the past couple of years. I'm hoping we prove ourselves right." This is the fourth LeBlond team in this academic year alone to compete for a state championship, joining football, girls’ basketball and boys’ golf.Thompson says these teams all have something in common."Everyone has a really, really good work ethic and they enjoy it," he said. "They're not doing it, because their friend is. Or, because Mom told them to or Dad told them they have to do something. They're out here, because they love the game."LeBlond girls’ soccer (14-5) comes into this Final Four on a seven-match winning streak, most recently knocking off Barstow 2-1 in a state quarterfinal thriller this past Saturday.&nbsp;Freshman Katie Sego scored what ended up being the go-ahead goal with 29:33 left in that match."Everyone has stepped up when they needed to on the field," Sego said. "It helped us all to grow with our connections, with our passing and talking. It really just helps a lot."Sego is one of six freshmen on this year's varsity roster that was thrust into a bigger role this season with injuries popping up. Senior defender and Culver-Stockton soccer signee Emma Raines has been out all season due to an injury sustained in basketball season.Defenders Charley Elliott and Maddie Angold have also had to miss significant time this spring.Despite some hardships, outgoing senior and midfielder Emersyn McChristy has noticed just how hard the underclassmen have worked to fill the gaps."They've been doing good, learning quickly on how to fill those roles that we've lost people in," McChristy said. "They've grown together with us and have stepped up a lot."Those adjustments and that growth have led LeBlond to their first Final Four appearance in program history. The Golden Eagles will first face Father Tolton (16-8-1) in state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park.Villa Duchesne (9-11) and Saxony Lutheran (12-8) is the other semifinal matchup. LeBlond will play on Saturday - either for third place at 10 a.m. or for the grand prize at 11 a.m.Whatever happens, whoever they play, Thompson says the goal this weekend is relatively simple."We're going down to have fun and play the best soccer we can play," he stated. "If we play the best soccer we can play, everything will be fine."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685668783677.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684466862919.jpeg" alt="Emerson McChristy (5)." />
 <figcaption>Emerson McChristy (5).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683075997333.jpeg" alt="Maddie Sego." />
 <figcaption>Maddie Sego.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684466907735.jpeg" alt="Tatum Studer (14)." />
 <figcaption>Tatum Studer (14).</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683074702140.jpeg" alt="Kendall Cathcart (32) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal." />
 <figcaption>Kendall Cathcart (32) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684467055807.jpeg" alt="Emersyn Lenz kicks the ball away." />
 <figcaption>Emersyn Lenz kicks the ball away.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond girls' soccer set to compete in Final Four, caps historic year for Eagle athletics

The St. Joseph Mustangs tallied 10 hits and scored six runs in the third inning to pull away in an 11-4 win over the Baldwin City Blues on Opening Night at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday.

A crowd of 4,012 fans took in the game, which is a new Mustangs' Opening Day record.

The Mustangs (1-0) got things going right away, scoring four runs in the bottom of the first inning. Leading 5-3 entering the third, St. Joseph essentially put it away with a six-run frame.

Mason Holton led the way, going 3-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs, a run scored and a double. Aron Harrington went 2-for-4 with three RBIs.

 Lafayette alum and Northwest Missouri State product Cole Slibowski scored a team-high three runs and drew three walks.

On the mound, Savannah alum and Northwest Missouri State Bearcat Ty Hilsabeck got the win in five innings pitched, striking out seven and walking five batters.

LeBlond alum Jared Guck and Ryker Curry held Baldwin City scoreless over the final four innings in relief. The Mustangs' pitching staff struck out a combined 14 batters Wednesday while only walking five.

St. Joseph is off Thursday, but home to the Kansas City Monarchs on Friday at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590030601.jpeg" alt="Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs tallied 10 hits and scored six runs in the third inning to pull away in an 11-4 win over the Baldwin City Blues on Opening Night at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday.A crowd of 4,012 fans took in the game, which is a new Mustangs' Opening Day record.The Mustangs (1-0) got things going right away, scoring four runs in the bottom of the first inning. Leading 5-3 entering the third, St. Joseph essentially put it away with a six-run frame.Mason Holton led the way, going 3-for-4 at the plate with four RBIs, a run scored and a double. Aron Harrington went 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Lafayette alum and Northwest Missouri State product Cole Slibowski scored a team-high three runs and drew three walks.On the mound, Savannah alum and Northwest Missouri State Bearcat Ty Hilsabeck got the win in five innings pitched, striking out seven and walking five batters.LeBlond alum Jared Guck and Ryker Curry held Baldwin City scoreless over the final four innings in relief. The Mustangs' pitching staff struck out a combined 14 batters Wednesday while only walking five.St. Joseph is off Thursday, but home to the Kansas City Monarchs on Friday at 7 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590090132.jpeg" alt="Benton High School's JROTC prior to the game." />
 <figcaption>Benton High School's JROTC prior to the game.</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590104674.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590137326.jpeg" alt="Ike Book (right) and Oscar Pegg (left) celebrate a run scored." />
 <figcaption>Ike Book (right) and Oscar Pegg (left) celebrate a run scored.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590157860.jpeg" alt="Trevor McCollum comes around to score." />
 <figcaption>Trevor McCollum comes around to score.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685590308528.jpeg" alt="Cole Slibowski slides into third base." />
 <figcaption>Cole Slibowski slides into third base.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs score win over Baldwin City in season opener Wednesday

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

 Mikolas (4-1) matched a career high with 10 strikeouts and allowed three hits. The strikeout total matched his effort against Milwaukee in 2019. Vinnie Pasquantino scored on a fielder’s choice by Bobby Witt Jr. for the Royals' run. 

The Royals next take on the Rockies Friday night with first pitch at 7:10. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Miles Mikolas pitched eight shutout innings, Nolan Arenado hit an RBI double and Nolan Gorman drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Kansas City Royals 2-1 on Tuesday night to split the two-game set between the I-70 rivals. Mikolas (4-1) matched a career high with 10 strikeouts and allowed three hits. The strikeout total matched his effort against Milwaukee in 2019. Vinnie Pasquantino scored on a fielder’s choice by Bobby Witt Jr. for the Royals' run. Carlos Hernández took the loss.The Royals next take on the Rockies Friday night with first pitch at 7:10. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Mikolas works 8 shutout innings, leads Cardinals to 2-1 victory over the Royals

The St. Joseph Mustangs are set to play ball again in 2023, taking the field as the hottest team in the MINK League.

St. Joseph made history last summer, becoming the first franchise in league history to win three consecutive titles. The Mustangs capped it off with an <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e3280f33-7af4-4c42-8074-3f65558017bf">11-1 victory over the Joplin Outlaws</a> back on July 30th.

The Mustangs have now won eight MINK League championships since their inception in 2009. Team owner and general manager Ky Turner says the championships are a blast and that remains the goal each year, but to him, a successful summer comes down to more than that.

"All of these guys are excited to play for St. Joseph," Turner told KFEQ Radio. "It means a lot nationally - the St. Joe Mustangs. When you come here, you start to feel it again."

"Once you get here, you meet the people you're playing for, the community, you see the support in the crowd. It's just something that excites everyone. To get it going again this year, you get a little extra pep in your step and Opening Day is like a holiday around here."

The Mustangs open their 14th season of play at historic Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday when they welcome in the Baldwin City Blues - a Kansas team from the Mid-Plains League. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

It's the first of 49 regular season games for the Mustangs - 26 of those are at home. St. Joseph has ranked in the top 12 nationally in&nbsp;collegiate summer baseball attendance for nine years in a row.

Turner says that's no coincidence, and it takes a literal army to make the home game experience fun, friendly and memorable.

"That's why it's really hard when someone calls me and says, 'I want to do what you're doing in St. Joseph,'" Turner said. "And I just say, 'Good luck!' St. Joseph is a special place and it takes a lot of different people to make that happen."

This marks Turner's second season as team owner and his eighth as GM. He's been with the team in some capacity since the inaugural 2009 season.

While his creativity and passion have helped the entire organization grow and evolve through the years, Turner says there's one area in particular he loves to focus on as the man in charge.

"I never want to get too far away from the fun family side," Turner said. "Because, that's truly my baby and I want to make sure we stay true to who we are."

As for the team itself, the roster features 17 players who are back from the 2022 squad.&nbsp;Local high schools like Benton, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, Platte County, Kearney and Savannah all have alums playing for the Mustangs this summer.

One of those locals is a first-time Mustang - pitcher and Lafayette graduate Jayden Little, who has spent the last two years at nearby Highland Community College.

An all-state pitcher for the Irish in 2021, Little has been sidelined for about the last year-and-a-half with Tommy John surgery. But this summer, Little says he's feeling like his old self and is ready to show it.

"It's been a long time," he said. "It's nice to come back and play in front of the home fans for sure. I always came here as a kid, and needed the autographs from the players. Definitely willing to do that for the little kids now."

Another Lafayette alum on the team is utility player Ike Book, who spent this past season at Washburn after two years at Lincoln Trail Community College in Illinois.

Book was named second-team all-MIAA this past spring after batting .394 - the fourth best average in the league. This after dealing with a whole slew of injuries these last few years.

"Both my quads, I had a PCL and last fall, I had a fractured patella," said Book, a third-year Mustang who was limited last summer with injury. "I've definitely been through the ringer with those injuries. But, luckily, this spring, I didn't have anything crazy. Hopefully, we can stay healthy and stay on that track."

Like any other local baseball fanatic, Book has his own childhood memories of coming to Phil Welch. Now a veteran player for the Mustangs, he hopes to spend another summer giving back to a fanbase that's always cheered him on.

"Getting to watch the Mustangs and some of the other local teams growing up, this is kind of something you dream about," Book said. "You kind of think about how the kids here are now, and you can put yourself in their shoes. It's definitely a dream, and we're lucky enough to be playing."

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/851b943b-ae84-4f45-a92e-e82d598dd132">FULL ROSTER HERE.</a>

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/92b1121d-bb5f-418e-8b29-8237b54a32e9">FULL SCHEDULE HERE.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659242393958.jpeg" alt="The Mustangs after winning the 2022 MINK League title last July with team owner and general manager Ky Turner addressing the fans. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Mustangs after winning the 2022 MINK League title last July with team owner and general manager Ky Turner addressing the fans. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs are set to play ball again in 2023, taking the field as the hottest team in the MINK League.St. Joseph made history last summer, becoming the first franchise in league history to win three consecutive titles. The Mustangs capped it off with an <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e3280f33-7af4-4c42-8074-3f65558017bf">11-1 victory over the Joplin Outlaws</a> back on July 30th.The Mustangs have now won eight MINK League championships since their inception in 2009. Team owner and general manager Ky Turner says the championships are a blast and that remains the goal each year, but to him, a successful summer comes down to more than that."All of these guys are excited to play for St. Joseph," Turner told KFEQ Radio. "It means a lot nationally - the St. Joe Mustangs. When you come here, you start to feel it again.""Once you get here, you meet the people you're playing for, the community, you see the support in the crowd. It's just something that excites everyone. To get it going again this year, you get a little extra pep in your step and Opening Day is like a holiday around here."The Mustangs open their 14th season of play at historic Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday when they welcome in the Baldwin City Blues - a Kansas team from the Mid-Plains League. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.It's the first of 49 regular season games for the Mustangs - 26 of those are at home. St. Joseph has ranked in the top 12 nationally in&nbsp;collegiate summer baseball attendance for nine years in a row.Turner says that's no coincidence, and it takes a literal army to make the home game experience fun, friendly and memorable."That's why it's really hard when someone calls me and says, 'I want to do what you're doing in St. Joseph,'" Turner said. "And I just say, 'Good luck!' St. Joseph is a special place and it takes a lot of different people to make that happen."This marks Turner's second season as team owner and his eighth as GM. He's been with the team in some capacity since the inaugural 2009 season.While his creativity and passion have helped the entire organization grow and evolve through the years, Turner says there's one area in particular he loves to focus on as the man in charge."I never want to get too far away from the fun family side," Turner said. "Because, that's truly my baby and I want to make sure we stay true to who we are."As for the team itself, the roster features 17 players who are back from the 2022 squad.&nbsp;Local high schools like Benton, Lafayette, Bishop LeBlond, Platte County, Kearney and Savannah all have alums playing for the Mustangs this summer.One of those locals is a first-time Mustang - pitcher and Lafayette graduate Jayden Little, who has spent the last two years at nearby Highland Community College.An all-state pitcher for the Irish in 2021, Little has been sidelined for about the last year-and-a-half with Tommy John surgery. But this summer, Little says he's feeling like his old self and is ready to show it."It's been a long time," he said. "It's nice to come back and play in front of the home fans for sure. I always came here as a kid, and needed the autographs from the players. Definitely willing to do that for the little kids now."Another Lafayette alum on the team is utility player Ike Book, who spent this past season at Washburn after two years at Lincoln Trail Community College in Illinois.Book was named second-team all-MIAA this past spring after batting .394 - the fourth best average in the league. This after dealing with a whole slew of injuries these last few years."Both my quads, I had a PCL and last fall, I had a fractured patella," said Book, a third-year Mustang who was limited last summer with injury. "I've definitely been through the ringer with those injuries. But, luckily, this spring, I didn't have anything crazy. Hopefully, we can stay healthy and stay on that track."Like any other local baseball fanatic, Book has his own childhood memories of coming to Phil Welch. Now a veteran player for the Mustangs, he hopes to spend another summer giving back to a fanbase that's always cheered him on."Getting to watch the Mustangs and some of the other local teams growing up, this is kind of something you dream about," Book said. "You kind of think about how the kids here are now, and you can put yourself in their shoes. It's definitely a dream, and we're lucky enough to be playing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685496903572.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685496932035.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685496946042.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/851b943b-ae84-4f45-a92e-e82d598dd132">FULL ROSTER HERE.</a><a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/92b1121d-bb5f-418e-8b29-8237b54a32e9">FULL SCHEDULE HERE.</a>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs set sights on family fun and another MINK League title as 2023 season begins

The Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer team is Final Four bound for the first time in program history. The Golden Eagles defeated Barstow 2-1 Saturday at the Class 1 state quarterfinals on a warm day in Barstow.

Senior Tatum Studer and freshman Katie Sego each scored a goal in the win.

LeBlond will now Face Father Tolton in state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

State baseball Class 1 - Platte Valley beat Community in state semis Monday, 8-0. Platte Valley faced St. Elizabeth for the state title on Tuesday starting at 1 p.m. in Ozark.&nbsp;St. Elizabeth beat Platte Valley 13-2. Platte Valley finishes its best season in program history with a 20-3 record and a state runner-up finish after getting fourth last year.

In Class 2, Maysville fell in state semis Monday to Ash Grove, 11-0. The Wolverines face Chafee for third place on Tuesday afternoon at 4 p.m.

Boys' state tennis Savannah made history by making the Final Four in Springfield as a team for the first time in program history. The Savages fell in state semifinals to eventual state champion Clayton, 5-1.

Savannah turned around on Saturday and beat Duchesne 5-0 to take third - the highest team finish for Savage boys' tennis at state in school history.

State track and field, Class 3-5 St. Joseph Central's Makenzie Garr is a state champion Class 5 girls' shot put with a throw of 45 feet - 1.75 inches. Garr also medaled second this past Friday in discus with a distance of 136 feet - 1 inch.

Garr ends her high school career with five state medals and school records in both shot put and discus. She'll continue her track career at Missouri Western.

Elsewhere, Lafayette's Honor Mannings medaled third in the Class 4 girls' 300 meter hurdles with a time of 44.31 seconds.

Savannah's Rhyan Shrick medaled second in the Class 4 girls' javelin with a throw of 131 feet - 1 inch.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685470791774.jpeg" alt="Makenzie Garr. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Makenzie Garr. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer team is Final Four bound for the first time in program history. The Golden Eagles defeated Barstow 2-1 Saturday at the Class 1 state quarterfinals on a warm day in Barstow.Senior Tatum Studer and freshman Katie Sego each scored a goal in the win.LeBlond will now Face Father Tolton in state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That will do it! <a href="https://twitter.com/leblondsoccer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leblondsoccer</a> punches their ticket to the final 4 defeating Barstow 2-1! 🦅💪 <a href="https://t.co/PAzxvVNguZ">pic.twitter.com/PAzxvVNguZ</a>&mdash; Mitchell Girres (@mgirres14) <a href="https://twitter.com/mgirres14/status/1662542814042017792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>State baseball Class 1 - Platte Valley beat Community in state semis Monday, 8-0. Platte Valley faced St. Elizabeth for the state title on Tuesday starting at 1 p.m. in Ozark.&nbsp;St. Elizabeth beat Platte Valley 13-2. Platte Valley finishes its best season in program history with a 20-3 record and a state runner-up finish after getting fourth last year.In Class 2, Maysville fell in state semis Monday to Ash Grove, 11-0. The Wolverines face Chafee for third place on Tuesday afternoon at 4 p.m.Boys' state tennis Savannah made history by making the Final Four in Springfield as a team for the first time in program history. The Savages fell in state semifinals to eventual state champion Clayton, 5-1.Savannah turned around on Saturday and beat Duchesne 5-0 to take third - the highest team finish for Savage boys' tennis at state in school history.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685470896968.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>State track and field, Class 3-5 St. Joseph Central's Makenzie Garr is a state champion Class 5 girls' shot put with a throw of 45 feet - 1.75 inches. Garr also medaled second this past Friday in discus with a distance of 136 feet - 1 inch.Garr ends her high school career with five state medals and school records in both shot put and discus. She'll continue her track career at Missouri Western.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Makenzie Garr <a href="https://twitter.com/makkk92?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@makkk92</a> will compete in her final high school event today as she goes for a State Championship in the Shot Put at 12:30. Follow along at <a href="https://t.co/KfvaP7cyCt">https://t.co/KfvaP7cyCt</a><a href="https://twitter.com/DCLau5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCLau5</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CHS_Indians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CHS_Indians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisRroush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrisRroush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cliffnotes_pod?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cliffnotes_pod</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyKFEQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TommyKFEQ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/indianinsider_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indianinsider_</a> <a href="https://t.co/95SsNrqxAX">pic.twitter.com/95SsNrqxAX</a>&mdash; CHS Indians Track &amp; Field (@CHSIndiansTrack) <a href="https://twitter.com/CHSIndiansTrack/status/1662475278969389057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Elsewhere, Lafayette's Honor Mannings medaled third in the Class 4 girls' 300 meter hurdles with a time of 44.31 seconds.Savannah's Rhyan Shrick medaled second in the Class 4 girls' javelin with a throw of 131 feet - 1 inch.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ preps roundup - LeBlond soccer Final Four bound, Garr wins gold

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

“You're definitely aware of it,” Mayers said of a perfect game. “I tried to keep it business as usual. The goal was to throw up as many zeroes as you possibly can and that's the mindset I stayed in.”

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

“That was one of the most exciting moments for me of the year,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “For him to set the tone like that was unbelievable.”

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

“He did a great job today,” Arenado said. “We just couldn't get anything going.”

Willson Contreras followed with a single to center that stopped an 0 for 29 slide.

“I can't say what I was thinking there,” Mayers said with a chuckle. “I made two very bad pitches in that inning and they're good hitters. They made me pay for them.”

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

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

“It was just hard to get anything going offensively,” St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol said. “Today was a tough one.”

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

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

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

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

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

“The stuff's OK. The location's OK,” Wainwright said. “Nothing great. We're in one of those funks right now. Baseball is a crazy game like that. I'm trying to take a big picture view. The little moments, I'm not winning right now."

Pasquantino hit an RBI double in the third.

“I'm feeling solid and ready to go tomorrow,” Pasquantino said. “It was kind of a weird game because it was tougher to score runs early and then we were able to break it opener later.”

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

Pasquantino had an RBI single off Steven Matz, who turned 32 Monday, in the eighth, and Witt and Massey homered in the ninth against Drew VerHagen.

Witt snapped an 0-for-12 skid with the home run. He became the second Royal to hit 30 career homers before turning age 23.

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685397386878.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game Monday, May 29, 2023, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson).jpg" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the ninth inning of a baseball game Monday, May 29, 2023, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson).jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. LOUIS (AP) — Josh Staumont and Mike Mayers came within six outs of the first combined perfect game in major league history before Nolan Arenado lined a leadoff single in the eighth inning of the Kansas City Royals' 7-0 win over the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday.“You're definitely aware of it,” Mayers said of a perfect game. “I tried to keep it business as usual. The goal was to throw up as many zeroes as you possibly can and that's the mindset I stayed in.”Staumont,, a 29-year-old right-hander, served as the opener in a planned bullpen game for the Royals. He made his first major league start in his 167th appearance and struck out two in a 1-2-3 inning, throwing 14 pitches.“That was one of the most exciting moments for me of the year,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “For him to set the tone like that was unbelievable.”Mayers, a 31-year-old left-hander who pitched for the Cardinals from 2016-19, made his third appearance for the Royals this season after eight starts at Triple-A Omaha. He retired 18 consecutive batters before Arenado lined a 1-0 slider to left on his 72nd pitch.“He did a great job today,” Arenado said. “We just couldn't get anything going.”Willson Contreras followed with a single to center that stopped an 0 for 29 slide.“I can't say what I was thinking there,” Mayers said with a chuckle. “I made two very bad pitches in that inning and they're good hitters. They made me pay for them.”Taylor Clarke relieved and retired Brendan Donovan, Paul DeJong and Alex Burleson in order. Amir Garrett pitched a perfect ninth to finish a two-hitter and Kansas City's second shutout this year.St. Louis was shut out for the sixth time and has scored 13 runs in its last six games.“It was just hard to get anything going offensively,” St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol said. “Today was a tough one.”There have been 23 perfect games, the last by Seattle’s Félix Hernández against Tampa Bay on Aug. 15, 2012. All perfect games have been complete games.Kansas City had not shut out the Cardinals since May 22, 2015, and had not blanked them in St. Louis since June 2, 2014.In the opener of a two-game series, the Royals tied their season high with 16 hits and stranded 14 runners, one shy of their high.Nicky Lopez matched his career high with four hits, and Nick Pratto and Vinnie Pasquantino had three each. Mike Massey hit a two-run homer and Bobby Witt Jr. added a solo homer.Adam Wainwright (2-1) allowed three runs and nine hits in five innings for the Cardinals, playing their 18th game in a stretch of 19 days in a row. The Cardinals and the Royals have back-to-back days off Wednesday and Thursday.“The stuff's OK. The location's OK,” Wainwright said. “Nothing great. We're in one of those funks right now. Baseball is a crazy game like that. I'm trying to take a big picture view. The little moments, I'm not winning right now."Pasquantino hit an RBI double in the third.“I'm feeling solid and ready to go tomorrow,” Pasquantino said. “It was kind of a weird game because it was tougher to score runs early and then we were able to break it opener later.”MJ Melendez hit a run-scoring triple in the fifth and scored on Freddy Fermin's bunt down the first-base line for a 3-0 lead.Pasquantino had an RBI single off Steven Matz, who turned 32 Monday, in the eighth, and Witt and Massey homered in the ninth against Drew VerHagen.Witt snapped an 0-for-12 skid with the home run. He became the second Royal to hit 30 career homers before turning age 23.NOOTBAR HURTCF Lars Nootbar left after Pratto doubled leading off the third inning, appearing to pull up near the wall. Nootbar has slammed into the wall catching a Massey drive in the second. The Cardinals said Nootbar had back spasms.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals: RHP Brad Keller (right shoulder impingement syndrome) is progressing well after throwing a recent bullpen.Cardinals: OF Dylan Carlson (left ankle sprain) has been taking swings from the right side. On Monday, he took swings left-handed. Once he is comfortable, he will have short rehab stint in the minors.UP NEXTRHP Zack Greinke (1-5, 4.55) starts Tuesday for the Royals and RHP Miles Mikolas (3-1, 4.23) for the Cardinals. Grienke is 13-7 with a 3.48 ERA against St. Louis. Mikolas pitched a four-hit shutout in his only game against the Royals on May 21, 2018.

Near Perfection: Royals' Staumont, Mayers within 6 outs of perfect game in 7-0 win over Cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

But Melendez homered off him in the seventh, and Edward Olivares connected for a 452-foot shot off Kuhl in the eighth. Olivares' tying drive caromed off the scoreboard in left at Kauffman Stadium, and smoke was seen coming from the area where the ball landed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685323156570.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey (19) is mobbed by teammates and has a cooler of water dumped on him after hitting a walkoff single in the ninth inning of a baseball game to defeat the Washington Nationals, Sunday, May 28, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey (19) is mobbed by teammates and has a cooler of water dumped on him after hitting a walkoff single in the ninth inning of a baseball game to defeat the Washington Nationals, Sunday, May 28, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Massey's single with two outs in the ninth scored MJ Melendez to cap a late rally that lifted the Kansas City Royals to a 3-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Sunday.The Royals hit homers in the seventh and eighth innings to tie the game, then pulled it out in the ninth to avoid a sweep.Melendez reached with one out on an error by first baseman Dominic Smith and scored when Massey lined a single into right off Chad Kuhl (0-3) that fell in front of Lane Thomas.“I was trying to be selectively aggressive,” Massey said. “I was just making sure I was staying in the spot I was looking and didn't help the pitcher out. I thought the outfielder was going to get it, but then luckily it had some top spin and dove on him. Luckily it fell in there for us.”Washington's Mackenzie Gore struck out a career-high 11 over seven innings and allowed one earned run on three hits and one walk. He gave up a double to the leadoff batter, then didn’t allow another hit until the sixth inning.“It was good,” Gore said. “We did a lot of good things today and look, we just won the series. It's a tough loss, but we just have to keep taking it one day at a time. We put some guys away today and the last few outings I haven't done that so that was a lot of fun.”But Melendez homered off him in the seventh, and Edward Olivares connected for a 452-foot shot off Kuhl in the eighth. Olivares' tying drive caromed off the scoreboard in left at Kauffman Stadium, and smoke was seen coming from the area where the ball landed.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Off the HoF!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeToTheCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeToTheCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/5xAX9TQIWh">pic.twitter.com/5xAX9TQIWh</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1662919625334571008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">GAME REWIND: Nothing to see here, just the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royals</a>&#39; Hall of Fame video board smoking from that Olivares homer. <a href="https://t.co/zLt9ZXPcR7">pic.twitter.com/zLt9ZXPcR7</a>&mdash; Bally Sports Kansas City (@BallySportsKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/BallySportsKC/status/1662941416979415042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Nationals got on the board first with an RBI double by Ildemaro Vargas that bounced off the top of the left field wall to score Smith in the fourth inning. Vargas scored on the next at-bat when Michael Chavis hit a bloop single to center field to give Washington a 2-0 lead.“We didn't have our late-inning guys available,” Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. “That last play there is a do-or-die play and you can't let that ball bounce in front of you like that. You've got to try up and catch that and if it gets by you, it gets by you and the game is over anyway.”In his season debut, Daniel Lynch went 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs on five hits with three walks and six strikeouts.“That was the first real game that I have seen him pitch. I thought he had good intent,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He attacked hitters, his breaking ball looked good and he threw some good changeups. More so than anything he felt really good. He was throwing the ball really well.”Scott Barlow (2-3) pitched a scoreless ninth inning and got the win.ROSTER MOVESThe Royals reinstated LHP Daniel Lynch and placed LHP Josh Taylor (left shoulder impingement syndrome) on the 15-day Injured List.UP NEXTThe Nationals send RHP Trevor Williams to the mound on the road against the Dodgers on Monday. The Royals travel to St. Louis, but haven’t announced a starter.