ST. JOSEPH - Missouri Western head women's soccer coach Aaron Avila is stepping down from his position due to personal health concerns. Avila was selected to succeed Chad Edwards as the Griffons head coach on July 23.

"I would like to thank Josh Looney and the entire Missouri Western community for the great opportunity given to me," said Avila. "It has been very tough for me to make the decision to step away from coaching. I know my focus needs to be on my family and my health moving forward. I wish the team nothing but the best and I know Josh and his staff will provide them what they need to be successful"

"Aaron and I have talked this through and I realize how difficult it was for him to reach a decision to step away from soccer to focus on his health," said vice president for intercollegiate athletics Dr. Josh Looney. "Our heart goes out to Aaron and his family. He is a winner and we will all be rooting for him.

"In addition, the women in our soccer program have been through a lot over the last month. They are a resilient, gritty and successful group with solid senior leadership. We remain committed to them and this head coaching search."

Avila came to the Griffons after a successful four-year tenure as head women's soccer coach at MIAA associate member Newman University. His four winning seasons at Newman extended a streak of zero losing seasons as a head soccer coach. Avila brought winning soccer to Newman after the program had experienced five consecutive losing seasons, going 37-22-16 in his time in Wichita. Across stints at Newman and Barton Community College, Avila owns a college coaching record of 104-52-25. He also went 125-27-3 as a head high school soccer coach.

The national search to select Missouri Western's next head women's soccer coach will continue.

ST. JOSEPH - Missouri Western head women's soccer coach Aaron Avila is stepping down from his position due to personal health concerns. Avila was selected to succeed Chad Edwards as the Griffons head coach on July 23."I would like to thank Josh Looney and the entire Missouri Western community for the great opportunity given to me," said Avila. "It has been very tough for me to make the decision to step away from coaching. I know my focus needs to be on my family and my health moving forward. I wish the team nothing but the best and I know Josh and his staff will provide them what they need to be successful""Aaron and I have talked this through and I realize how difficult it was for him to reach a decision to step away from soccer to focus on his health," said vice president for intercollegiate athletics Dr. Josh Looney. "Our heart goes out to Aaron and his family. He is a winner and we will all be rooting for him."In addition, the women in our soccer program have been through a lot over the last month. They are a resilient, gritty and successful group with solid senior leadership. We remain committed to them and this head coaching search."Avila came to the Griffons after a successful four-year tenure as head women's soccer coach at MIAA associate member Newman University. His four winning seasons at Newman extended a streak of zero losing seasons as a head soccer coach. Avila brought winning soccer to Newman after the program had experienced five consecutive losing seasons, going 37-22-16 in his time in Wichita. Across stints at Newman and Barton Community College, Avila owns a college coaching record of 104-52-25. He also went 125-27-3 as a head high school soccer coach.The national search to select Missouri Western's next head women's soccer coach will continue.--- MWSU Athletics ---

New Griffon soccer coach Aaron Avila steps down due to health concerns

The Big 12 Board of Directors announced that Conference
football programs will play a “9+1” schedule for the 2020 season consisting of
nine conference games and one non-conference home opponent.

The start of Conference play will be solidified in the
coming weeks, with an anticipated start sometime between mid- to
late-September, with the expectation that non-conference games are contested
prior to beginning league games.

The model also gives the Conference flexibility to move back
the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship game to December 12th or 19th.


“I would like to salute the work of our university
presidents and chancellors, athletics directors, coaches, medical advisors and
administrators who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively during these
extraordinary times,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.&nbsp; “We believe this
change provides the best opportunity going forward.&nbsp; However, we will
undoubtedly need to be flexible as we progress through the season in order to
combat the challenges that lie ahead.”

The Big 12 Board of Directors announced that Conference
football programs will play a “9+1” schedule for the 2020 season consisting of
nine conference games and one non-conference home opponent.The start of Conference play will be solidified in the
coming weeks, with an anticipated start sometime between mid- to
late-September, with the expectation that non-conference games are contested
prior to beginning league games.The model also gives the Conference flexibility to move back
the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship game to December 12th or 19th.
“I would like to salute the work of our university
presidents and chancellors, athletics directors, coaches, medical advisors and
administrators who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively during these
extraordinary times,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.&nbsp; “We believe this
change provides the best opportunity going forward.&nbsp; However, we will
undoubtedly need to be flexible as we progress through the season in order to
combat the challenges that lie ahead.”--- Big 12 Press Release ---

Big 12 Conference adopts 9+1 2020 football schedule

NEW YORK (AP) — Seven St. Louis Cardinals players and six staff members have tested positive for COVID-19, causing Major League Baseball to postpone the team’s four-game series at Detroit.

The series was to have been played at Comerica Park from Tuesday through Thursday.

“You think about how quickly something like this can spread,” Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said. “Until it touches you, you sometimes might not believe it, but needless to say we know this is very real and we know it moves quickly and it moves silently, but it can infect a lot of people fast.”

Mozeliak said that five of those who tested positive did not show symptoms. Mozeliak said the others did — headaches, cough, sniffles, low-grade fever.

“And of those eight, it’s a variety of symptoms but nothing at this point requiring anything like hospitalization,′ Mozeliak said.

St. Louis has been in quarantine since Thursday in Milwaukee, where the Cardinals’ last series was also postponed due to positive tests. While all the members of the Cardinals’ traveling party who tested positive have been returned home, the rest of them remain isolated in their Milwaukee hotel rooms.

“The hope would be to travel back to St. Louis Wednesday morning, work out Wednesday afternoon and allow players to get their feet moving again, their bodies moving again,” Mozeliak said. “And then on Thursday have a more robust workout and then play Friday.”

St. Louis last played July 29 at Minnesota and is tentatively set to resume its schedule this Friday at home against the Chicago Cubs.

Mozeliak said he wasn’t sure how the team might reschedule some of these games that have been wiped out with two series getting postponed.

“I haven’t really even thought about our schedule much other than hopefully playing Friday,” Mozeliak said. “It’s hard to think about the future when you’re literally trying to just get through the day.”

The Cardinals are the second team sidelined by the novel coronavirus since the season started July 23.

NEW YORK (AP) — Seven St. Louis Cardinals players and six staff members have tested positive for COVID-19, causing Major League Baseball to postpone the team’s four-game series at Detroit.The series was to have been played at Comerica Park from Tuesday through Thursday.“You think about how quickly something like this can spread,” Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said. “Until it touches you, you sometimes might not believe it, but needless to say we know this is very real and we know it moves quickly and it moves silently, but it can infect a lot of people fast.”Mozeliak said that five of those who tested positive did not show symptoms. Mozeliak said the others did — headaches, cough, sniffles, low-grade fever.“And of those eight, it’s a variety of symptoms but nothing at this point requiring anything like hospitalization,′ Mozeliak said.St. Louis has been in quarantine since Thursday in Milwaukee, where the Cardinals’ last series was also postponed due to positive tests. While all the members of the Cardinals’ traveling party who tested positive have been returned home, the rest of them remain isolated in their Milwaukee hotel rooms.The team is being tested daily.“The hope would be to travel back to St. Louis Wednesday morning, work out Wednesday afternoon and allow players to get their feet moving again, their bodies moving again,” Mozeliak said. “And then on Thursday have a more robust workout and then play Friday.”St. Louis last played July 29 at Minnesota and is tentatively set to resume its schedule this Friday at home against the Chicago Cubs.Mozeliak said he wasn’t sure how the team might reschedule some of these games that have been wiped out with two series getting postponed.“I haven’t really even thought about our schedule much other than hopefully playing Friday,” Mozeliak said. “It’s hard to think about the future when you’re literally trying to just get through the day.”The Cardinals are the second team sidelined by the novel coronavirus since the season started July 23.--- Associated Press ---

St. Louis series at Detroit postponed after Cards have 13 positive tests

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas men’s basketball will host Stephen F. Austin on Dec. 29, 2020, inside historic Allen Fieldhouse, replacing KU’s previously scheduled Dec. 29 game against Harvard. On July 8, the Ivy League announced it would have no athletics competition for the fall semester which forced Kansas to find an opponent for the vacant date.

Stephen F. Austin is coming off a 28-3 season in which it won the Southland Conference regular-season title going 19-1 in league play prior to the COVID-19 pandemic ending the season. Included in its 28 wins was an 85-83 overtime victory at then-No. 1 Duke on Nov. 26, 2019. The Lumberjacks are coached by Kyle Keller who was on the KU staff for three seasons from 2008-09 to 2010-11 under KU coach Bill Self.

“When we lost the Harvard game, we wanted to fill the opening with a quality opponent, and Kyle’s team clearly fits that description,” Self said. “Kyle has done a fabulous job highlighted by the 2018 NCAA Tournament berth and the win at Duke last year. He’s a great coach and a great friend and I look forward to having him back at Allen Fieldhouse. This will be a game that will benefit us and hopefully help us get better.”

After KU, Keller spent five seasons as an assistant coach at Texas A&amp;M before taking over at SFA in 2016, his first head coaching position. On the court, Keller is 88-41 in four seasons at SFA as the Lumberjacks advanced to the 2017 CIT in his first season in Nacogdoches, Texas, and the 2018 NCAA Tournament the following year.

Kansas and Stephen F. Austin will be meeting for the first time in men’s basketball. Dating back to the 2013-14 season, Kansas has won its last 30 games against non-conference opponents in Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks are 119-4 versus non-league foes in the venue under Self who enters his 18th season at Kansas.

2020-21 Kansas Men’s Basketball Schedule (home games in ALL CAPS)

Nov. 10 (Tues.) – vs. Kentucky (Champions Classic, Chicago)

Nov. 26-27 – vs. TBD (Wooden Legacy, Anaheim, Calif. – Georgetown, UCLA, Virginia)

Dec. 3 (Thurs.) – CREIGHTON (Big 12/Big East Battle)

Dec. 12 (Sat.) – MISSOURI (Border Showdown Series, Kansas City, Mo.)

Jan. 2 (Sat.) – Big 12 regular season begins

Jan. 30 (Sat.) – at TBD (Big 12/SEC Challenge)

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas men’s basketball will host Stephen F. Austin on Dec. 29, 2020, inside historic Allen Fieldhouse, replacing KU’s previously scheduled Dec. 29 game against Harvard. On July 8, the Ivy League announced it would have no athletics competition for the fall semester which forced Kansas to find an opponent for the vacant date.Stephen F. Austin is coming off a 28-3 season in which it won the Southland Conference regular-season title going 19-1 in league play prior to the COVID-19 pandemic ending the season. Included in its 28 wins was an 85-83 overtime victory at then-No. 1 Duke on Nov. 26, 2019. The Lumberjacks are coached by Kyle Keller who was on the KU staff for three seasons from 2008-09 to 2010-11 under KU coach Bill Self.“When we lost the Harvard game, we wanted to fill the opening with a quality opponent, and Kyle’s team clearly fits that description,” Self said. “Kyle has done a fabulous job highlighted by the 2018 NCAA Tournament berth and the win at Duke last year. He’s a great coach and a great friend and I look forward to having him back at Allen Fieldhouse. This will be a game that will benefit us and hopefully help us get better.”After KU, Keller spent five seasons as an assistant coach at Texas A&amp;M before taking over at SFA in 2016, his first head coaching position. On the court, Keller is 88-41 in four seasons at SFA as the Lumberjacks advanced to the 2017 CIT in his first season in Nacogdoches, Texas, and the 2018 NCAA Tournament the following year.Kansas and Stephen F. Austin will be meeting for the first time in men’s basketball. Dating back to the 2013-14 season, Kansas has won its last 30 games against non-conference opponents in Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks are 119-4 versus non-league foes in the venue under Self who enters his 18th season at Kansas.2020-21 Kansas Men’s Basketball Schedule (home games in ALL CAPS)Nov. 4 (Wed.) – WASHBURN (exhibition)Nov. 10 (Tues.) – vs. Kentucky (Champions Classic, Chicago)Nov. 13 (Fri.) – SOUTHERN UTAHNov. 16 (Mon.) – EASTERN ILLINOISNov. 20 (Fri.) – STONY BROOKNov. 26-27 – vs. TBD (Wooden Legacy, Anaheim, Calif. – Georgetown, UCLA, Virginia)Nov. 26-27 – vs. TBD (Wooden Legacy, Anaheim, Calif. – Georgetown, UCLA, Virginia)Dec. 3 (Thurs.) – CREIGHTON (Big 12/Big East Battle)Dec. 8 (Tues.) – OMAHADec. 12 (Sat.) – MISSOURI (Border Showdown Series, Kansas City, Mo.)Dec. 19 (Sat.) – USCDec. 22 (Tues.) – at ColoradoDec. 29 (Tues.) – STEPHEN F. AUSTINJan. 2 (Sat.) – Big 12 regular season beginsJan. 30 (Sat.) – at TBD (Big 12/SEC Challenge)--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas men’s basketball will now host Stephen F. Austin on December 29

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Nick Madrigal was starting to lose sleep after two frustrating games without his first big league hit.

Once the top prospect finally got it, they kept right on coming.

Madrigal followed his first career hit with three more on Sunday, pacing the Chicago White Sox to a 9-2 romp over the Kansas City Royals. The 23-year-old infielder had a pair of hits in a seven-run seventh inning, when he scored the go-ahead run and had his first career RBI, and barely missed out on a 5-for-5 day on a ground ball in the ninth inning.

"It's hard when everyone knows that you hadn't gotten a hit yet," said Madrigal, who was brought up for the start of the three-game series Friday night.

"They kind of joke with you and the pressure builds," he said, "but once I saw that first one fall the weight was off me."

Yasmani Grandal added three RBI and Nicky Delmonico two in support of right-hander Dylan Cease (1-1), who gave up a homer to Alex Gordon in the third inning but otherwise steered clear of trouble. Cease wound up allowing two runs and five hits over six innings in a solid bounce-back performance from a miserable start in Detroit.

"The biggest thing is I was just a little more under control," Cease said. "Made sure I wasn't rushing down the mound and just trying to be aggressive. It all started with my fastball command."

Scott Barlow (1-1) took the loss for the Royals, who wound up getting swept.

"There are things we need to clean up and get better at. But there are things we're doing well," Royals manager Mike Matheny said, "and when we're doing them well we need to make sure we're pointing that out, too. Bottom line is we play this game for W's and right now they're hard to come by."

Madrigal, the fourth overall pick out of Oregon State in the 2018 draft, had been hitless through two games. He finally got the first of his career in the third inning -- and the White Sox made sure he got the ball -- then added another in the fifth before scoring on a bases-loaded walk.

Madrigal put an exclamation mark on his big afternoon in the seventh. He led off with a single and scored the go-ahead run on Jose Abreu's base hit, then singled again and drove in his first career run when the White Sox batted through the lineup.

If not for Salvador Perez beating him to first base in the ninth, it would have been even more spectacular.

"I think he was a little calmer," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "After the first hit he was much more relaxed. When you get to the big leagues, one of the things you want to do is get that one out of the way."

The Royals had high hopes Jakob Junis would get their pitching back on track. He was recalled along with batterymate Cam Gallagher earlier in the day to make his season debut. Both players had been cleared after testing positive for COVID-19 and building up their stamina at the club's alternate training site in Kansas City, Kansas.

Junis and Gallagher worked well together through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering just two runs and six hits.

It was the bullpen that let Kansas City down.

Tyler Zuber walked three while recording just two outs. Barlow then allowed the go-ahead runs in the seventh when Greg Holland was unable to get him out of the two-on, no-out jam. Holland proceeded to allow two more of his own volition, then Glenn Sparkman threw the ball away on an easy grounder for an error that let two more runs score.

Junis helped himself in the second when he deflected a liner by Eloy Jimenez off his foot to Maikel Franco at third base. The ball never hit the ground, so Franco caught it for an out and fired to first base to double off Edwin Encarnacion.

"Looking back on it, it was pretty dumb honestly," Junis said. "The shift was working perfectly right where he hit it. One of those things where I just reacted. I don't know if I've ever reacted by putting my foot out like that. I kicked it up perfectly and it was a pretty cool play all-in-all but not the smartest one."

The Royals optioned right-hander Ronald Bolanos and designated catcher Oscar Hernandez for assignment to make room for Junis and Gallagher on the roster. Bolanos (0-2) allowed five runs while recording just five outs Saturday night.

White Sox utilityman Leury Garcia got the day off after a death in his family. "We'll just leave it at that," Renteria said. "I just kind of gave him a day today to kind of settle his own thoughts. I'm sure everybody understands."

Royals: SS Adalberto Mondesi left after the fifth with a bruised quad. Nicky Lopez replaced him. ... OF Hunter Dozier (coronavirus) could join the alternate site camp Monday to begin a two-week ramp-up, general manager Dayton Moore said. Dozier tested positive July 22 but has been cleared to return.

The White Sox conclude an eight-game, nine-day trip with left-hander Carlos Rodon (0-1, 12.27 ERA) on the mound Monday night in the opener of a two-game series in Milwaukee. The Royals begin a four-game, two-city series against the Cubs on Monday night with lefty Danny Duffy (0-1, 5.79 ERA) starting the first of two in Chicago.

Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Nick Madrigal was starting to lose sleep after two frustrating games without his first big league hit.Once the top prospect finally got it, they kept right on coming.Madrigal followed his first career hit with three more on Sunday, pacing the Chicago White Sox to a 9-2 romp over the Kansas City Royals. The 23-year-old infielder had a pair of hits in a seven-run seventh inning, when he scored the go-ahead run and had his first career RBI, and barely missed out on a 5-for-5 day on a ground ball in the ninth inning."It's hard when everyone knows that you hadn't gotten a hit yet," said Madrigal, who was brought up for the start of the three-game series Friday night."They kind of joke with you and the pressure builds," he said, "but once I saw that first one fall the weight was off me."Yasmani Grandal added three RBI and Nicky Delmonico two in support of right-hander Dylan Cease (1-1), who gave up a homer to Alex Gordon in the third inning but otherwise steered clear of trouble. Cease wound up allowing two runs and five hits over six innings in a solid bounce-back performance from a miserable start in Detroit."The biggest thing is I was just a little more under control," Cease said. "Made sure I wasn't rushing down the mound and just trying to be aggressive. It all started with my fastball command."Scott Barlow (1-1) took the loss for the Royals, who wound up getting swept."There are things we need to clean up and get better at. But there are things we're doing well," Royals manager Mike Matheny said, "and when we're doing them well we need to make sure we're pointing that out, too. Bottom line is we play this game for W's and right now they're hard to come by."Madrigal, the fourth overall pick out of Oregon State in the 2018 draft, had been hitless through two games. He finally got the first of his career in the third inning -- and the White Sox made sure he got the ball -- then added another in the fifth before scoring on a bases-loaded walk.Madrigal put an exclamation mark on his big afternoon in the seventh. He led off with a single and scored the go-ahead run on Jose Abreu's base hit, then singled again and drove in his first career run when the White Sox batted through the lineup.If not for Salvador Perez beating him to first base in the ninth, it would have been even more spectacular."I think he was a little calmer," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "After the first hit he was much more relaxed. When you get to the big leagues, one of the things you want to do is get that one out of the way."The Royals had high hopes Jakob Junis would get their pitching back on track. He was recalled along with batterymate Cam Gallagher earlier in the day to make his season debut. Both players had been cleared after testing positive for COVID-19 and building up their stamina at the club's alternate training site in Kansas City, Kansas.Junis and Gallagher worked well together through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering just two runs and six hits.It was the bullpen that let Kansas City down.Tyler Zuber walked three while recording just two outs. Barlow then allowed the go-ahead runs in the seventh when Greg Holland was unable to get him out of the two-on, no-out jam. Holland proceeded to allow two more of his own volition, then Glenn Sparkman threw the ball away on an easy grounder for an error that let two more runs score.KICK SAVE AND A BEAUTYJunis helped himself in the second when he deflected a liner by Eloy Jimenez off his foot to Maikel Franco at third base. The ball never hit the ground, so Franco caught it for an out and fired to first base to double off Edwin Encarnacion."Looking back on it, it was pretty dumb honestly," Junis said. "The shift was working perfectly right where he hit it. One of those things where I just reacted. I don't know if I've ever reacted by putting my foot out like that. I kicked it up perfectly and it was a pretty cool play all-in-all but not the smartest one."ROSTER MOVESThe Royals optioned right-hander Ronald Bolanos and designated catcher Oscar Hernandez for assignment to make room for Junis and Gallagher on the roster. Bolanos (0-2) allowed five runs while recording just five outs Saturday night.DAY OFFWhite Sox utilityman Leury Garcia got the day off after a death in his family. "We'll just leave it at that," Renteria said. "I just kind of gave him a day today to kind of settle his own thoughts. I'm sure everybody understands."TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: SS Adalberto Mondesi left after the fifth with a bruised quad. Nicky Lopez replaced him. ... OF Hunter Dozier (coronavirus) could join the alternate site camp Monday to begin a two-week ramp-up, general manager Dayton Moore said. Dozier tested positive July 22 but has been cleared to return.UP NEXTThe White Sox conclude an eight-game, nine-day trip with left-hander Carlos Rodon (0-1, 12.27 ERA) on the mound Monday night in the opener of a two-game series in Milwaukee. The Royals begin a four-game, two-city series against the Cubs on Monday night with lefty Danny Duffy (0-1, 5.79 ERA) starting the first of two in Chicago.

Royals get swept by White Sox after 9-2 loss Sunday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Gio Gonzalez made his first start for the hot-hitting Chicago White Sox more than 16 years after they drafted him, and the veteran responded by holding the Kansas City Royals scoreless into the fourth inning of an 11-5 rout Saturday night.

He got plenty of help from an offense that had three different players pile up four hits apiece.

Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert were two of them, each finishing a triple shy of the cycle. Jimenez hit a three-run homer to go with a double and two singles while Robert homered and had two doubles and a single from the lead-off spot.

Throw in four hits from Leury Garcia, three from Yoan Moncada and a couple from Yasmani Grandal, who also drove in two runs, and the White Sox finished with 21 hits against Ronald Bolanos (0-2) and the Kansas City bullpen.

"We've been working hard as group and just happy to be with young guys like us, learning from veterans," Robert said through a translator. "Now is the moment I think we have the team to compete."

Gonzalez scattered five hits and three walks while striking out six in 3 2/3 innings. He left with a 5-0 lead thanks to his offense, setting up Matt Foster (1-0) and the rest of the Chicago bullpen to get through the rest of the game

Whit Merrifield hit a two-run homer for the Royals. Ryan O'Hearn drove in their other two runs.

"We're missing a couple timely hits here and there and not making a play or two here and there that can put us at 5-4, even maybe 6-3," said Merrifield, who made one of the Royals' four errors. "Kind of the way the ball is bouncing lately. Hopefully we can come up with some timely hits and get things rolling."

The teams combined for 36 hits and left 27 runners on base in a game that lasted nearly 4 hours.

The 34-year-old Gonzalez was a first-round pick of the White Sox in 2004, but he was traded to the Phillies the following year in a deal that included Aaron Rowand and Jim Thome. That began an odyssey that included stops with the Athletics, Nationals and Brewers along with two All-Star selections and a season in which he led the National League in wins.

Gonzalez finally returned to the White Sox in December, signing a $5 million contract for this season, and made his debut for them in relief of injured starter Reynaldo Lopez last weekend. Gonzalez took his spot in the rotation Saturday night.

The left-hander might keep it for a while, too, thanks to some poise under pressure.

Gonzalez had a leadoff single wiped away when Merrifield was caught stealing in the first. He struck out Nicky Lopez to leave the bases loaded in the second. After leaving another aboard in the third, Gonzalez exited with the bases loaded in the fourth, and watched from the dugout as Jimmy Cordero got Merrifield to pop out and end the threat.

"He worked through some leveraged innings but got us through a little deeper today," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "Hopefully his next outing he can go even deeper. He kept those guys off balance a bit and did what he could. We're trying to extend him a little bit and hopefully next ballgame we can get him even deeper."

The White Sox became the first team to lead off with four Cuban players in major league history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Robert led off the game, Moncada batted second, Jose Abreu third and Grandal was the cleanup hitter.

White Sox: INF Tim Anderson (right groin strain) went on the IL after leaving in the seventh inning of Friday night's game. He had been hitting .333 after leading the majors with a .335 average last season. C Yermin Mercedes was recalled from the taxi squad to fill his roster spot. Mercedes has yet to make his major league debut.

Royals: RHP Brad Keller pitched a simulated game at Kauffman Stadium earlier Saturday and could make his season debut this week. The Royals' opening day starter in 2019 tested positive for COVID-19 but has been cleared for about two weeks. "I feel pretty good. Threw quite a bit of pitches today," Keller said. "Whenever they tell me, I'm ready."

Royals RHP Jakob Junis makes his season debut Sunday after returning from a positive COVID-19 test, becoming their major league-leading seventh different starter. RHP Dylan Cease (0-1, 15.43) is on the mound for the White Sox.

"I was planning on throwing (a bullpen session) tomorrow but the last couple of outings have gone pretty well," Junis said earlier Saturday. "I am just excited to get back with my team and compete. I like where I'm at right now."

Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Gio Gonzalez made his first start for the hot-hitting Chicago White Sox more than 16 years after they drafted him, and the veteran responded by holding the Kansas City Royals scoreless into the fourth inning of an 11-5 rout Saturday night.He got plenty of help from an offense that had three different players pile up four hits apiece.Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert were two of them, each finishing a triple shy of the cycle. Jimenez hit a three-run homer to go with a double and two singles while Robert homered and had two doubles and a single from the lead-off spot.Throw in four hits from Leury Garcia, three from Yoan Moncada and a couple from Yasmani Grandal, who also drove in two runs, and the White Sox finished with 21 hits against Ronald Bolanos (0-2) and the Kansas City bullpen."We've been working hard as group and just happy to be with young guys like us, learning from veterans," Robert said through a translator. "Now is the moment I think we have the team to compete."Gonzalez scattered five hits and three walks while striking out six in 3 2/3 innings. He left with a 5-0 lead thanks to his offense, setting up Matt Foster (1-0) and the rest of the Chicago bullpen to get through the rest of the gameWhit Merrifield hit a two-run homer for the Royals. Ryan O'Hearn drove in their other two runs."We're missing a couple timely hits here and there and not making a play or two here and there that can put us at 5-4, even maybe 6-3," said Merrifield, who made one of the Royals' four errors. "Kind of the way the ball is bouncing lately. Hopefully we can come up with some timely hits and get things rolling."The teams combined for 36 hits and left 27 runners on base in a game that lasted nearly 4 hours.The 34-year-old Gonzalez was a first-round pick of the White Sox in 2004, but he was traded to the Phillies the following year in a deal that included Aaron Rowand and Jim Thome. That began an odyssey that included stops with the Athletics, Nationals and Brewers along with two All-Star selections and a season in which he led the National League in wins.Gonzalez finally returned to the White Sox in December, signing a $5 million contract for this season, and made his debut for them in relief of injured starter Reynaldo Lopez last weekend. Gonzalez took his spot in the rotation Saturday night.The left-hander might keep it for a while, too, thanks to some poise under pressure.Gonzalez had a leadoff single wiped away when Merrifield was caught stealing in the first. He struck out Nicky Lopez to leave the bases loaded in the second. After leaving another aboard in the third, Gonzalez exited with the bases loaded in the fourth, and watched from the dugout as Jimmy Cordero got Merrifield to pop out and end the threat."He worked through some leveraged innings but got us through a little deeper today," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "Hopefully his next outing he can go even deeper. He kept those guys off balance a bit and did what he could. We're trying to extend him a little bit and hopefully next ballgame we can get him even deeper."CUBA CONNECTIONThe White Sox became the first team to lead off with four Cuban players in major league history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Robert led off the game, Moncada batted second, Jose Abreu third and Grandal was the cleanup hitter.TRAINER'S ROOMWhite Sox: INF Tim Anderson (right groin strain) went on the IL after leaving in the seventh inning of Friday night's game. He had been hitting .333 after leading the majors with a .335 average last season. C Yermin Mercedes was recalled from the taxi squad to fill his roster spot. Mercedes has yet to make his major league debut.Royals: RHP Brad Keller pitched a simulated game at Kauffman Stadium earlier Saturday and could make his season debut this week. The Royals' opening day starter in 2019 tested positive for COVID-19 but has been cleared for about two weeks. "I feel pretty good. Threw quite a bit of pitches today," Keller said. "Whenever they tell me, I'm ready."UP NEXTRoyals RHP Jakob Junis makes his season debut Sunday after returning from a positive COVID-19 test, becoming their major league-leading seventh different starter. RHP Dylan Cease (0-1, 15.43) is on the mound for the White Sox."I was planning on throwing (a bullpen session) tomorrow but the last couple of outings have gone pretty well," Junis said earlier Saturday. "I am just excited to get back with my team and compete. I like where I'm at right now."

Royals dig early hole, lose to White Sox 11-5

NEW YORK (AP) - The St. Louis Cardinals-Milwaukee Brewers game Saturday has been postponed.

One more player and three staff members for the Cardinals have tested positive for the coronavirus.

Two Cardinals players were flagged for positive tests on Friday, leading to the postponement of the series opener in Milwaukee.

The teams had hoped to resume play Saturday and makeup Friday’s game as part of a doubleheader Sunday.

However, sources tell ESPN both ends of the scheduled doubleheader for Sunday have officially been postponed.

NEW YORK (AP) - The St. Louis Cardinals-Milwaukee Brewers game Saturday has been postponed.One more player and three staff members for the Cardinals have tested positive for the coronavirus.Two Cardinals players were flagged for positive tests on Friday, leading to the postponement of the series opener in Milwaukee.The teams had hoped to resume play Saturday and makeup Friday’s game as part of a doubleheader Sunday.However, sources tell ESPN both ends of the scheduled doubleheader for Sunday have officially been postponed.--- Associated Press ---

Cardinals-Brewers have the rest of series postponed

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Adam Engel hit a three-run homer in the second inning Friday night, and that was all the offense the Chicago White Sox needed in a 3-2 win over Kansas City that spoiled the Royals' home opener.

Dallas Keuchel picked up the win for the White Sox. Alex Colome converted his first save opportunity.

Kuechel (2-0) worked out of trouble seemingly the entire game. He retired the Royals in order in only one inning, and allowed just two runs on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. He walked one and struck out three.

Kris Bubic (0-1) settled down after struggling early in his big league debut for Kansas City. He allowed three runs (two earned) on three hits. He walked one and hit James McCann twice.

Bubic worked his way out of trouble in the first inning, getting a 5-4-3 double play. He wasn't as fortunate in the second. Eloy Jimenez reached on an error by second baseman Nicky Lopez. After Luis Robert reached on a fielder's choice, Bubic hit James McCann on the head with a pitch and Engel followed, blasted his first home run of the season into the White Sox bullpen.

The Royals answered with one in the third, but left the bases loaded. Lopez got Kansas City's first hit with one out, and he advanced to second on Adalberto Mondesi's two-out infield single. Salvador Perez drove in Lopez with a single to left. Jorge Soler walked, loading the bases, but Maikel Franco popped out to first, ending the inning.

Keukel entered the sixth with a two-run lead, but that was cut in half when Ryan McBroom hit his first career home run, a 426-foot blast to left-center.

Royals left fielder Alex Gordon picked up his first outfield assist of the season in the seventh when he threw out Nick Madrigal trying to score from second on a single by Garcia. It was Gordon's 99th outfield assist since 2010, the most in the majors in that time frame.

White Sox SS Tim Anderson left the game in the seventh inning with soreness in his right hip. He was replaced by Leury Garcia.

Royals LHP Foster Griffin was transferred to the 60-day Injured List. He was originally placed on the 10-day IL on July 28 with a left forearm strain following his big league debut.

The White Sox purchased the contract of 2B Nick Madrigal from the Schaumburg training facility and designated RHP Kelvin Herrera for assignment. Madrigal, the fourth overall pick in the 2018 draft, made his Major League debut, hitting ninth. Herrera made two appearances for the White Sox this season, allowing four earned runs in 2 1/3 innings.

The Royals selected the contract of LHP Kris Bubic, who made his Major League debut. Bubic was the Royals' fourth first-round selection (40th overall) in the 2018 draft. He's the second Royals 2018 first-round pick to make his debut, following RHP Brady Singer (18th overall).

The White Sox will send LHP Gio Gonzalez to the mound for his second outing with the club. Chicago's 2004 first-round pick (38th overall), Gonzalez was signed as a free agent in the off-season after spending the last eight years in the National League with the Nationals and Brewers.

The Royals will send RHP Ronald Bolanos to the mound for his second start. He took the loss in his debut July 26, despite allowing only two unearned runs in Cleveland.

Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Adam Engel hit a three-run homer in the second inning Friday night, and that was all the offense the Chicago White Sox needed in a 3-2 win over Kansas City that spoiled the Royals' home opener.Dallas Keuchel picked up the win for the White Sox. Alex Colome converted his first save opportunity.Kuechel (2-0) worked out of trouble seemingly the entire game. He retired the Royals in order in only one inning, and allowed just two runs on seven hits in 5 1/3 innings. He walked one and struck out three.Kris Bubic (0-1) settled down after struggling early in his big league debut for Kansas City. He allowed three runs (two earned) on three hits. He walked one and hit James McCann twice.Bubic worked his way out of trouble in the first inning, getting a 5-4-3 double play. He wasn't as fortunate in the second. Eloy Jimenez reached on an error by second baseman Nicky Lopez. After Luis Robert reached on a fielder's choice, Bubic hit James McCann on the head with a pitch and Engel followed, blasted his first home run of the season into the White Sox bullpen.The Royals answered with one in the third, but left the bases loaded. Lopez got Kansas City's first hit with one out, and he advanced to second on Adalberto Mondesi's two-out infield single. Salvador Perez drove in Lopez with a single to left. Jorge Soler walked, loading the bases, but Maikel Franco popped out to first, ending the inning.Keukel entered the sixth with a two-run lead, but that was cut in half when Ryan McBroom hit his first career home run, a 426-foot blast to left-center.Royals left fielder Alex Gordon picked up his first outfield assist of the season in the seventh when he threw out Nick Madrigal trying to score from second on a single by Garcia. It was Gordon's 99th outfield assist since 2010, the most in the majors in that time frame.TRAINER'S ROOMWhite Sox SS Tim Anderson left the game in the seventh inning with soreness in his right hip. He was replaced by Leury Garcia.Royals LHP Foster Griffin was transferred to the 60-day Injured List. He was originally placed on the 10-day IL on July 28 with a left forearm strain following his big league debut.ROSTER MOVESThe White Sox purchased the contract of 2B Nick Madrigal from the Schaumburg training facility and designated RHP Kelvin Herrera for assignment. Madrigal, the fourth overall pick in the 2018 draft, made his Major League debut, hitting ninth. Herrera made two appearances for the White Sox this season, allowing four earned runs in 2 1/3 innings.The Royals selected the contract of LHP Kris Bubic, who made his Major League debut. Bubic was the Royals' fourth first-round selection (40th overall) in the 2018 draft. He's the second Royals 2018 first-round pick to make his debut, following RHP Brady Singer (18th overall).UP NEXTThe White Sox will send LHP Gio Gonzalez to the mound for his second outing with the club. Chicago's 2004 first-round pick (38th overall), Gonzalez was signed as a free agent in the off-season after spending the last eight years in the National League with the Nationals and Brewers.The Royals will send RHP Ronald Bolanos to the mound for his second start. He took the loss in his debut July 26, despite allowing only two unearned runs in Cleveland.

Royals come up short against White Sox in home opener 3-2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Heart of America Athletic Conference Commissioner, Lori Thomas, has confirmed that the Heart still intends to resume play this fall according to the guidelines established by the NAIA Council of Presidents (NAIA-COP), the Heart Council of Presidents (COP), and the Heart Task Force.

"While the landscape of the COVID-19 situation remains very fluid, we will continue to adjust our sails and move forward with optimism for the upcoming fall season," shared Thomas. "Our task force and the COP believe that it is in the best interest of our 14-members to continue the opening of competition this fall as planned. We will closely monitor the situation as it changes throughout the course of the season and follow all safety measures required by state and local governments for each of our institutions. The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, and spectators still remains at the forefront of our planning."

Member&nbsp;schools can begin practicing on Saturday, August 15th. Men's soccer, women's soccer, women's volleyball, and cross country will open competition no sooner than September 5th&nbsp;with football to follow by opening on September 12th.

"Opening contests in the fall as planned will provide us with the flexibility to adjust schedules as necessary while still getting in quality conference competition while we're able to," added Thomas. "If a team is forced to quarantine due to positive cases, we'll be able to simply postpone those games to the spring versus canceling them altogether."&nbsp;

The Heart Task Force and Council of Presidents will continue to meet weekly throughout the fall season. This will allow the opportunity to stay on top of any issues and make adjustments if necessary. The conference is expected to release the Heart Promise, a document set to address the best practices for a health and safety competitive environment, prior to the start of fall practices.&nbsp;

The NAIA&nbsp;released statements&nbsp;this week, announcing the postponement of all fall championship events to Spring 2021 and adjustments to the original testing protocol. This decision still allows NAIA conferences to compete in the fall and winter if they so choose while still being able to qualify and participate in national championships.&nbsp;

"We are thankful for the autonomy to do what we feel is best for our conference in this situation. Moving national championships to the spring does not impact all of our competing programs and there is no guarantee that the landscape of the COVID-19 situation will be any different at that time than it is now," stated Thomas. "We are choosing to focus on what is best for the overwhelming majority of our member institutions and student-athletes. The NAIA had to make a decision based on serving the entire membership, which we fully respect and understand."

KANSAS CITY, Mo. –&nbsp;The Heart of America Athletic Conference Commissioner, Lori Thomas, has confirmed that the Heart still intends to resume play this fall according to the guidelines established by the NAIA Council of Presidents (NAIA-COP), the Heart Council of Presidents (COP), and the Heart Task Force."While the landscape of the COVID-19 situation remains very fluid, we will continue to adjust our sails and move forward with optimism for the upcoming fall season," shared Thomas. "Our task force and the COP believe that it is in the best interest of our 14-members to continue the opening of competition this fall as planned. We will closely monitor the situation as it changes throughout the course of the season and follow all safety measures required by state and local governments for each of our institutions. The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, and spectators still remains at the forefront of our planning."Member&nbsp;schools can begin practicing on Saturday, August 15th. Men's soccer, women's soccer, women's volleyball, and cross country will open competition no sooner than September 5th&nbsp;with football to follow by opening on September 12th."Opening contests in the fall as planned will provide us with the flexibility to adjust schedules as necessary while still getting in quality conference competition while we're able to," added Thomas. "If a team is forced to quarantine due to positive cases, we'll be able to simply postpone those games to the spring versus canceling them altogether."&nbsp;The Heart Task Force and Council of Presidents will continue to meet weekly throughout the fall season. This will allow the opportunity to stay on top of any issues and make adjustments if necessary. The conference is expected to release the Heart Promise, a document set to address the best practices for a health and safety competitive environment, prior to the start of fall practices.&nbsp;The NAIA&nbsp;released statements&nbsp;this week, announcing the postponement of all fall championship events to Spring 2021 and adjustments to the original testing protocol. This decision still allows NAIA conferences to compete in the fall and winter if they so choose while still being able to qualify and participate in national championships.&nbsp;"We are thankful for the autonomy to do what we feel is best for our conference in this situation. Moving national championships to the spring does not impact all of our competing programs and there is no guarantee that the landscape of the COVID-19 situation will be any different at that time than it is now," stated Thomas. "We are choosing to focus on what is best for the overwhelming majority of our member institutions and student-athletes. The NAIA had to make a decision based on serving the entire membership, which we fully respect and understand."--- Heart Press Release ---

Heart of America still intends to play sports this fall

KANSAS CITY, MO – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Council of Presidents (COP) voted on Friday, July 31 to postpone the fall national football championship to spring 2021. This decision came after the COP voted earlier this week to postpone championships in all other fall sports until spring. This decision still allows NAIA conferences to compete in the fall and winter, if they so choose.

“The decision regarding the football championship required additional attention since the sport often operates outside of the regular conference structure,” said Dr. Arvid Johnson, COP Chair and University of St. Francis President. “The extra time allotted was to ensure that the COP representatives had adequate opportunity to gain feedback from their conference colleagues.”

The COP noted that the decision to move the football championship from the fall to spring is more inclusive for all NAIA member institutions, especially those schools that are restricted by local or state mandates from holding athletics competitions this fall.

“Moving the football championship to the spring was the right thing to do for the well-being of our student-athletes,” said NAIA President and CEO Jim Carr. “The decision also provides additional flexibility for our conferences and institutions to account for regional differences and plan their regular season accordingly.”

KANSAS CITY, MO – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Council of Presidents (COP) voted on Friday, July 31 to postpone the fall national football championship to spring 2021. This decision came after the COP voted earlier this week to postpone championships in all other fall sports until spring. This decision still allows NAIA conferences to compete in the fall and winter, if they so choose.“The decision regarding the football championship required additional attention since the sport often operates outside of the regular conference structure,” said Dr. Arvid Johnson, COP Chair and University of St. Francis President. “The extra time allotted was to ensure that the COP representatives had adequate opportunity to gain feedback from their conference colleagues.”The COP noted that the decision to move the football championship from the fall to spring is more inclusive for all NAIA member institutions, especially those schools that are restricted by local or state mandates from holding athletics competitions this fall.“Moving the football championship to the spring was the right thing to do for the well-being of our student-athletes,” said NAIA President and CEO Jim Carr. “The decision also provides additional flexibility for our conferences and institutions to account for regional differences and plan their regular season accordingly.”--- NAIA Press Release ---

NAIA postpones football championship to spring 2021

NEW YORK (AP) — The coronavirus forced another change in Major League Baseball’s schedule, bringing the league’s total to eight teams affected in the first nine days of the season.

Friday’s game between St. Louis and Milwaukee was postponed after two Cardinals players tested positive for the coronavirus.

The league announced the schedule change hours before the game was to be played. It said the postponement in Milwaukee is “consistent with protocols to allow enough time for additional testing and contact tracing to be conducted.”

The Cardinals said in a statement they learned Thursday night about positive tests from samples collected Wednesday. Players and staff have been instructed to isolate in their hotel rooms in Milwaukee, and the club did not leave the hotel Friday for Miller Park.

“The team is currently conducting rapid testing of the entire traveling party, has implemented contact tracing, and will continue to self-isolate,” the team said.

The Brewers and Cardinals plan to resume their schedule Saturday night at Miller Park, pending results from the testing and contact tracing, and make up Friday’s game as part of a doubleheader Sunday.

“We are supportive of Major League Baseball’s decision to postpone today’s game and look forward to playing our home opener as soon as conditions safely allow,” Brewers general manager David Stearns said in a statement. “The health and safety of our players and employees are, and will continue to be, our top priorities.”

Two other games scheduled for Friday involving the Marlins, Nationals, Blue Jays and Phillies had already been postponed because of an outbreak among Miami players and two positive tests on Philadelphia’s coaching staff.

The Cardinals played in Minnesota on Tuesday and Wednesday before a scheduled day off Thursday. The Twins hosted Cleveland on Thursday night, and the Indians used the same visiting clubhouse as St. Louis.

It’s uncertain if the Indians and Twins will move forward with their scheduled game Friday night. Cleveland planned to hold a team meeting early in the afternoon to discuss the situation.

A week into its virus-shortened season of 60 games in 67 days, Major League Baseball is scrambling to adjust its schedule.

The Marlins haven’t played since Sunday, and Miami’s situation has also led to schedule changes for the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles.

Miami learned Friday that another player tested positive, bringing its total to 18 players and two staff members, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made, said none of the Marlins has shown serious symptoms.

The infected Marlins left Philadelphia in sleeper buses Friday to return to Miami, where they will remain together in quarantine, according to the person. The trip is expected to take about 18 hours.

The rest of the team will spend the weekend in isolation in Philadelphia, where the Marlins have been stranded since their outbreak began. It’s uncertain when or where they will next play.

Officials were concerned that the latest Marlins positive test result came five days after the team was last together, when the Marlins beat Philadelphia.

To help make up all the postponements, MLB and the players’ union agreed Thursday that doubleheaders this season will become a pair of seven-inning games, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because there was no announcement.

The Brewers have never hosted a doubleheader at Miller Park, which has a retractable roof. The last twinbill in Milwaukee was Sept. 23, 2000 against the Pirates at Milwaukee County Stadium.

NEW YORK (AP) — The coronavirus forced another change in Major League Baseball’s schedule, bringing the league’s total to eight teams affected in the first nine days of the season.Friday’s game between St. Louis and Milwaukee was postponed after two Cardinals players tested positive for the coronavirus.The league announced the schedule change hours before the game was to be played. It said the postponement in Milwaukee is “consistent with protocols to allow enough time for additional testing and contact tracing to be conducted.”The Cardinals said in a statement they learned Thursday night about positive tests from samples collected Wednesday. Players and staff have been instructed to isolate in their hotel rooms in Milwaukee, and the club did not leave the hotel Friday for Miller Park.“The team is currently conducting rapid testing of the entire traveling party, has implemented contact tracing, and will continue to self-isolate,” the team said.The Brewers and Cardinals plan to resume their schedule Saturday night at Miller Park, pending results from the testing and contact tracing, and make up Friday’s game as part of a doubleheader Sunday.“We are supportive of Major League Baseball’s decision to postpone today’s game and look forward to playing our home opener as soon as conditions safely allow,” Brewers general manager David Stearns said in a statement. “The health and safety of our players and employees are, and will continue to be, our top priorities.”Two other games scheduled for Friday involving the Marlins, Nationals, Blue Jays and Phillies had already been postponed because of an outbreak among Miami players and two positive tests on Philadelphia’s coaching staff.The Cardinals played in Minnesota on Tuesday and Wednesday before a scheduled day off Thursday. The Twins hosted Cleveland on Thursday night, and the Indians used the same visiting clubhouse as St. Louis.It’s uncertain if the Indians and Twins will move forward with their scheduled game Friday night. Cleveland planned to hold a team meeting early in the afternoon to discuss the situation.A week into its virus-shortened season of 60 games in 67 days, Major League Baseball is scrambling to adjust its schedule.The Marlins haven’t played since Sunday, and Miami’s situation has also led to schedule changes for the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles.Miami learned Friday that another player tested positive, bringing its total to 18 players and two staff members, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made, said none of the Marlins has shown serious symptoms.The infected Marlins left Philadelphia in sleeper buses Friday to return to Miami, where they will remain together in quarantine, according to the person. The trip is expected to take about 18 hours.The rest of the team will spend the weekend in isolation in Philadelphia, where the Marlins have been stranded since their outbreak began. It’s uncertain when or where they will next play.Officials were concerned that the latest Marlins positive test result came five days after the team was last together, when the Marlins beat Philadelphia.To help make up all the postponements, MLB and the players’ union agreed Thursday that doubleheaders this season will become a pair of seven-inning games, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because there was no announcement.The Brewers have never hosted a doubleheader at Miller Park, which has a retractable roof. The last twinbill in Milwaukee was Sept. 23, 2000 against the Pirates at Milwaukee County Stadium.--- Associated Press ---

Cardinals-Brewers postponed after positive tests for St. Louis

DETROIT -- Trevor Rosenthal couldn't remember the last time he'd earned a save -- nearly three years ago.

That drought is finally over after Rosenthal pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in Kansas City's 5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers. The Royals overcame Miguel Cabrera's first multihomer game since 2016.

Once a standout closer for St. Louis, Rosenthal has struggled with his health and his effectiveness in recent years, finishing 2019 with a 13.50 ERA in 22 appearances with the Nationals and Tigers. When he retired JaCoby Jones on a grounder to end the game, he gave his glove a little celebratory tap.

"I've just always focused on putting in the work," Rosenthal said. "I've been fortunate that a lot of people have given me opportunities even when I've been struggling."

It was his first save since Aug. 12, 2017, when he was with St. Louis.

The Royals have scored 25 of their 31 runs this year in the first five innings, but this time their offense came through late. Whit Merrifield scored on Salvador Perez's grounder to break a 2-all tie in the seventh. Bubba Starling added a double the following inning that gave Kansas City two insurance runs.

"Great jump by Whit on the contact play," manager Mike Matheny said. "Then Bubba gets a chance to put an exclamation point on it right there. We needed those runs, obviously."

Cabrera hit solo homers in the first and eighth, and Jonathan Schoop added one for Detroit in the fourth. It was Cabrera's first multihomer game since Sept. 30, 2016 at Atlanta, and he's gone deep three times in the first seven games this year after hitting only 12 home runs in all of 2019. He now has 480 for his career.

"He's the smartest hitter in the game, no question about it," said Ivan Nova, Detroit's starting pitcher. "He has the timing, the intelligence and everything. He's still getting a little bit older, but he's still smart."

Greg Holland (1-0) won in relief for the Royals, and Jose Cisnero (1-1) took the loss.

Brady Singer allowed two runs and five hits in five innings for Kansas City in his second career start. Nova went 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and eight hits.

Ryan O'Hearn opened the scoring in the top of the first with an RBI single, and Franchy Cordero hit a run-scoring single in the second to put the Royals up 2-1.

After six hits in the first three games of the series, Merrifield didn't have any Thursday, but he still made an impact. He was hit by a pitch with one out in the seventh, then went to third on Jorge Soler's double.

Perez hit a bouncer up the middle that was fielded by Schoop, the second baseman. Merrifield scored, although Schoop threw to third to retire Soler.

Starling's double down the line in left field made it 5-2.

The Tigers went a third straight game without walking anybody -- the first time they've done that since April 13-15, 2015.

Tigers: OF Cameron Maybin left after beating out an infield hit in the ninth. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Maybin had a strained quad and would go on the injured list.

LHP Kris Bubic makes his big league debut for the Royals when he starts their home opener Friday night against Chicago. LHP Dallas Keuchel takes the ball for the White Sox.

Detroit starts a home series against Cincinnati, with RHP Spencer Turnbull (0-0) facing RHP Trevor Bauer (0-0) of the Reds.

Associated PressDETROIT -- Trevor Rosenthal couldn't remember the last time he'd earned a save -- nearly three years ago."It's been a while," he said.That drought is finally over after Rosenthal pitched a scoreless ninth inning Thursday night in Kansas City's 5-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers. The Royals overcame Miguel Cabrera's first multihomer game since 2016.Once a standout closer for St. Louis, Rosenthal has struggled with his health and his effectiveness in recent years, finishing 2019 with a 13.50 ERA in 22 appearances with the Nationals and Tigers. When he retired JaCoby Jones on a grounder to end the game, he gave his glove a little celebratory tap."I've just always focused on putting in the work," Rosenthal said. "I've been fortunate that a lot of people have given me opportunities even when I've been struggling."It was his first save since Aug. 12, 2017, when he was with St. Louis.The Royals have scored 25 of their 31 runs this year in the first five innings, but this time their offense came through late. Whit Merrifield scored on Salvador Perez's grounder to break a 2-all tie in the seventh. Bubba Starling added a double the following inning that gave Kansas City two insurance runs."Great jump by Whit on the contact play," manager Mike Matheny said. "Then Bubba gets a chance to put an exclamation point on it right there. We needed those runs, obviously."Cabrera hit solo homers in the first and eighth, and Jonathan Schoop added one for Detroit in the fourth. It was Cabrera's first multihomer game since Sept. 30, 2016 at Atlanta, and he's gone deep three times in the first seven games this year after hitting only 12 home runs in all of 2019. He now has 480 for his career."He's the smartest hitter in the game, no question about it," said Ivan Nova, Detroit's starting pitcher. "He has the timing, the intelligence and everything. He's still getting a little bit older, but he's still smart."Greg Holland (1-0) won in relief for the Royals, and Jose Cisnero (1-1) took the loss.Brady Singer allowed two runs and five hits in five innings for Kansas City in his second career start. Nova went 5 2/3 innings, allowing two runs and eight hits.Ryan O'Hearn opened the scoring in the top of the first with an RBI single, and Franchy Cordero hit a run-scoring single in the second to put the Royals up 2-1.After six hits in the first three games of the series, Merrifield didn't have any Thursday, but he still made an impact. He was hit by a pitch with one out in the seventh, then went to third on Jorge Soler's double.Perez hit a bouncer up the middle that was fielded by Schoop, the second baseman. Merrifield scored, although Schoop threw to third to retire Soler.Starling's double down the line in left field made it 5-2.IN CONTROLThe Tigers went a third straight game without walking anybody -- the first time they've done that since April 13-15, 2015.TRAINER'S ROOMTigers: OF Cameron Maybin left after beating out an infield hit in the ninth. Manager Ron Gardenhire said Maybin had a strained quad and would go on the injured list.UP NEXTLHP Kris Bubic makes his big league debut for the Royals when he starts their home opener Friday night against Chicago. LHP Dallas Keuchel takes the ball for the White Sox.Detroit starts a home series against Cincinnati, with RHP Spencer Turnbull (0-0) facing RHP Trevor Bauer (0-0) of the Reds.

Royals beat Tigers 5-3 to split four-game series

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (July 30,
2020) – The Southeastern Conference has established September 26 as the new
kickoff for it 2020 football season to allow its universities to focus on the
healthy return of its campus communities and the gradual re-introduction of
athletics, as the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor developments
related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Thursday.

The 2020 SEC
football schedule will be comprised of a 10-game Conference-only schedule and
the SEC Football Championship Game will be played December 19 at Mercedes Benz
Stadium in Atlanta, rescheduled from the original date of December 5.

“This new plan for a football
schedule is consistent with the educational goals of our universities to allow
for the safe and orderly return to campus of their student populations and to
provide a healthy learning environment during these unique circumstances
presented by the COVID-19 virus,” Sankey said.&nbsp; “This new schedule supports
the safety measures that are being taken by each of our institutions to ensure
the health of our campus communities.”

The actions were
taken following extensive discussions and thorough deliberation among the SEC’s
Presidents and Chancellors, Athletics Directors, Conference Office staff, and
medical advisors, led by the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task
Force.

“After careful consideration of
the public health indicators in our region and following advice of our medical
advisors, we have determined that this is the best course of action to prepare
for a safe and healthy return to competition for SEC student-athletes, coaches
and others associated with our sports programs,” said Sankey.

The decision to
limit competition to Conference-only schedules and rescheduling of the SEC
Championship Game is based on the need for maximum flexibility in making any
necessary scheduling adjustments while reacting to developments around the
pandemic and continued advice from medical professionals.

“We believe these schedule
adjustments offer the best opportunity to complete a full season by giving us
the ability to adapt to the fluid nature of the virus and the flexibility to
adjust schedules as necessary if disruptions occur,” Sankey said.&nbsp; “It is
regrettable that some of our traditional non-conference rivalries cannot take
place in 2020 under this plan, but these are unique, and hopefully temporary,
circumstances that call for unconventional measures.”

The rescheduled start to the
season will allow the SEC to continue to monitor health trends across its
11-state footprint, as well as monitor developments in technology around mitigation
and treatment of the virus, including:

A revised schedule for the 2020
SEC football season will be announced at a later date following approval by the
Conference’s athletics directors.&nbsp; The 10-game schedule will include one
mid-season open date for each school and an open date on December 12 for all
schools.

Further decisions will be
announced at a later date regarding attendance at events and safety standards,
including social distancing, face coverings and other health measures
consistent with CDC, state and local guidelines, related to athletic events,
tailgating and other game day activities.

Other notes related to the
resumption of competition:

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (July 30,
2020) – The Southeastern Conference has established September 26 as the new
kickoff for it 2020 football season to allow its universities to focus on the
healthy return of its campus communities and the gradual re-introduction of
athletics, as the 14 members of the SEC continue to monitor developments
related to COVID-19, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey announced Thursday.The 2020 SEC
football schedule will be comprised of a 10-game Conference-only schedule and
the SEC Football Championship Game will be played December 19 at Mercedes Benz
Stadium in Atlanta, rescheduled from the original date of December 5.“This new plan for a football
schedule is consistent with the educational goals of our universities to allow
for the safe and orderly return to campus of their student populations and to
provide a healthy learning environment during these unique circumstances
presented by the COVID-19 virus,” Sankey said.&nbsp; “This new schedule supports
the safety measures that are being taken by each of our institutions to ensure
the health of our campus communities.”The actions were
taken following extensive discussions and thorough deliberation among the SEC’s
Presidents and Chancellors, Athletics Directors, Conference Office staff, and
medical advisors, led by the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task
Force.“After careful consideration of
the public health indicators in our region and following advice of our medical
advisors, we have determined that this is the best course of action to prepare
for a safe and healthy return to competition for SEC student-athletes, coaches
and others associated with our sports programs,” said Sankey.The decision to
limit competition to Conference-only schedules and rescheduling of the SEC
Championship Game is based on the need for maximum flexibility in making any
necessary scheduling adjustments while reacting to developments around the
pandemic and continued advice from medical professionals.“We believe these schedule
adjustments offer the best opportunity to complete a full season by giving us
the ability to adapt to the fluid nature of the virus and the flexibility to
adjust schedules as necessary if disruptions occur,” Sankey said.&nbsp; “It is
regrettable that some of our traditional non-conference rivalries cannot take
place in 2020 under this plan, but these are unique, and hopefully temporary,
circumstances that call for unconventional measures.”The rescheduled start to the
season will allow the SEC to continue to monitor health trends across its
11-state footprint, as well as monitor developments in technology around mitigation
and treatment of the virus, including:<ul>
 <li>Trends
 in public health indicators throughout the SEC’s 11-state footprint,
 including positive cases of COVID-19, hospitalizations and recovery
 statistics</li><li>State,
 local and campus heath directives, including restrictions on gatherings,
 isolation requirements for travelers, and other health and travel
 restrictions</li><li>Continued
 development of risk mitigation strategies</li><li>Continued
 advancement in COVID-19 testing reliability and availability</li><li>Continued
 evolution of time-based strategies for resuming activities after positive
 test results, including contact tracing, isolation and quarantine
 requirements</li><li>Observation
 of successes and challenges presented by return to competition in other
 sports</li>
 </ul>A revised schedule for the 2020
SEC football season will be announced at a later date following approval by the
Conference’s athletics directors.&nbsp; The 10-game schedule will include one
mid-season open date for each school and an open date on December 12 for all
schools.Further decisions will be
announced at a later date regarding attendance at events and safety standards,
including social distancing, face coverings and other health measures
consistent with CDC, state and local guidelines, related to athletic events,
tailgating and other game day activities.Other notes related to the
resumption of competition:<ul>
 <li>The
 SEC announced in July that the sports of men’s and women’s cross country,
 soccer and volleyball would be postponed through at least August 31.&nbsp;
 Start dates and schedules for those sports, as well as sports in their
 non-traditional seasons during the fall, will be announced at a later
 date.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>The SEC announced in July that
 student-athletes in all sports who elect to not participate in
 intercollegiate athletics during the fall 2020 academic semester because
 of health and/or safety concerns related to COVID-19 will continue to have
 their scholarships honored by their university and will remain in good
 standing with their team.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>The
 SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force continues to meet
 on policies and procedures for the safe return of student-athletes to
 competition, including the development of comprehensive testing and
 reporting policies, building on&nbsp;the NCAA’s Resocialization of College
 Sports Guidelines.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Each
 athletics program has been engaged in evaluating best practices for game
 operations to prepare a safe environment for student-athletes, coaches,
 staff, officials and other individuals necessary to conduct games.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>--- SEC Press Release ---

SEC to play a 10-game, conference only football schedule

The Big 12
Conference is cancelling its Virtual Football Media Day presented by Academy
Sports + Outdoors.&nbsp; It is yet to be determined if the event will be
rescheduled.&nbsp; The Conference’s annual media preview was slated for Monday,
August 3, after being moved from its originally scheduled July 20-21 dates.

“There
continues to be a lot more questions than answers about what the football
season will look like,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby. “A media day is intended
to talk football and the prospects for the season. Part of that discussion is
who you will be playing and when. With the on-going consideration of scheduling
models by our Board of Directors, this is the best course of action at this
time. “

A media
briefing with Commissioner Bowlsby will be scheduled in the near-term to update
on the State of the Conference. 

The Big 12
Conference is cancelling its Virtual Football Media Day presented by Academy
Sports + Outdoors.&nbsp; It is yet to be determined if the event will be
rescheduled.&nbsp; The Conference’s annual media preview was slated for Monday,
August 3, after being moved from its originally scheduled July 20-21 dates.“There
continues to be a lot more questions than answers about what the football
season will look like,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby. “A media day is intended
to talk football and the prospects for the season. Part of that discussion is
who you will be playing and when. With the on-going consideration of scheduling
models by our Board of Directors, this is the best course of action at this
time. “A media
briefing with Commissioner Bowlsby will be scheduled in the near-term to update
on the State of the Conference. --- Big 12 Press Release ---

Big 12 cancels its virtual football media days

With everything going on regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, athletics, and season tickets for the upcoming football season, we wanted to provide our season ticket holders and fans an update.

We have made two decisions regarding this fall's season ticket process:

We are extending the renewal period deadline until August 14, 2020. We are expecting to have more information and data to determine the fate of the fall football season in the next two weeks. Extending the deadline to complete renewals we believe gives everyone a better opportunity to make a decision that is the best for them in regard to re-upping their seats or not.

Fall 2020 Seating will NOT determine 2021 Seating. We have also made the decision that season-ticket holders who do NOT renew their tickets this fall will NOT be giving up the rights to their seats permanently and will have the opportunity to re-purchase them next season (Fall 2021). We have decided that we will "throw out" the 2020 seating chart and revert back to the 2019 seating chart when it comes time to rollover for the 2021 season. This should alleviate angst that our fans are having when it comes to personal safety and convenience due to implications of the pandemic. We are trending toward having to adjust seating arrangements this fall to maintain social distancing and other measures anyway, so we cannot guarantee that anyone will get to sit in their normal seat this fall regardless. We have not completed that plan as of yet, but will communicate it as soon as it is done and vetted with our health and safety team, the MIAA office and our other MIAA competitors.

We hope that these decisions help and provide a little more light on the current situation. However, we ask that everyone appreciate, understand, and know that it will change again in the next two weeks…so we are continuing to ask for grace and understanding as we try to navigate through the fog.

Finally, our team is also working with our finance team and the Foundation to determine options for refunds should the season be canceled. We will reach out and be in contact with you once that plan is completed as well.

Thank you all so much for your continued support of our Northwest football program, the Bearcat Booster Club and Bearcat Athletics.

All the best, Andy Peterson Director of Athletics

With everything going on regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, athletics, and season tickets for the upcoming football season, we wanted to provide our season ticket holders and fans an update.We have made two decisions regarding this fall's season ticket process:We are extending the renewal period deadline until August 14, 2020. We are expecting to have more information and data to determine the fate of the fall football season in the next two weeks. Extending the deadline to complete renewals we believe gives everyone a better opportunity to make a decision that is the best for them in regard to re-upping their seats or not.Fall 2020 Seating will NOT determine 2021 Seating. We have also made the decision that season-ticket holders who do NOT renew their tickets this fall will NOT be giving up the rights to their seats permanently and will have the opportunity to re-purchase them next season (Fall 2021). We have decided that we will "throw out" the 2020 seating chart and revert back to the 2019 seating chart when it comes time to rollover for the 2021 season. This should alleviate angst that our fans are having when it comes to personal safety and convenience due to implications of the pandemic. We are trending toward having to adjust seating arrangements this fall to maintain social distancing and other measures anyway, so we cannot guarantee that anyone will get to sit in their normal seat this fall regardless. We have not completed that plan as of yet, but will communicate it as soon as it is done and vetted with our health and safety team, the MIAA office and our other MIAA competitors.We hope that these decisions help and provide a little more light on the current situation. However, we ask that everyone appreciate, understand, and know that it will change again in the next two weeks…so we are continuing to ask for grace and understanding as we try to navigate through the fog.Finally, our team is also working with our finance team and the Foundation to determine options for refunds should the season be canceled. We will reach out and be in contact with you once that plan is completed as well.Thank you all so much for your continued support of our Northwest football program, the Bearcat Booster Club and Bearcat Athletics.All the best, Andy Peterson Director of Athletics--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest Missouri State gives update on football season tickets

MANHATTAN, Kan. – With fall camp right around the corner, Kansas State senior quarterback Skylar Thompson earned his third appearance on a watch list as he is one of 30 quarterbacks nationally to be named a preseason candidate for the Manning Award, the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced.

It is the third preseason watch list honor for Thompson, who is a candidate for the Wuerffel Trophy – which honors community service – and the Maxwell Award – which goes to the college football player of the year.

Thompson is one of four Big 12 signal callers on the Manning Award watch list, joining Baylor’s Charlie Brewer, Texas’ Sam Ehlinger and Iowa State’s Brock Purdy. It is the third time a K-State quarterback is up for the award, as current Wildcat quarterbacks coach Collin Klein was one of 10 finalists in 2012 and Jake Waters was a preseason candidate in 2014. 

Thompson begins his final campaign in Manhattan ranked in the top 10 in K-State history in 10 career categories. He is looking to become the first player in school history to throw for 6,000 career yards and rush for 1,000 career yards, needing 1,605 yards through the air this season to accomplish the feat. He is one of only four in school history to reach the 4,000/1,000 yard mark, but he was the first to do so prior to the end of his junior season.

A product of Independence, Missouri, Thompson produced a career season in 2019, setting career highs in passing yards (2,315), passing touchdowns (12), rushing yards (405) and rushing touchdowns (11) en route to Honorable Mention All-Big 12 accolades, the first Wildcat signal caller to earn postseason accolades from the league’s coaches since Waters in 2014.

The Manning Award is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting. Ten finalists will be selected prior to the postseason and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – With fall camp right around the corner, Kansas State senior quarterback Skylar Thompson earned his third appearance on a watch list as he is one of 30 quarterbacks nationally to be named a preseason candidate for the Manning Award, the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced.It is the third preseason watch list honor for Thompson, who is a candidate for the Wuerffel Trophy – which honors community service – and the Maxwell Award – which goes to the college football player of the year.Thompson is one of four Big 12 signal callers on the Manning Award watch list, joining Baylor’s Charlie Brewer, Texas’ Sam Ehlinger and Iowa State’s Brock Purdy. It is the third time a K-State quarterback is up for the award, as current Wildcat quarterbacks coach Collin Klein was one of 10 finalists in 2012 and Jake Waters was a preseason candidate in 2014. Thompson begins his final campaign in Manhattan ranked in the top 10 in K-State history in 10 career categories. He is looking to become the first player in school history to throw for 6,000 career yards and rush for 1,000 career yards, needing 1,605 yards through the air this season to accomplish the feat. He is one of only four in school history to reach the 4,000/1,000 yard mark, but he was the first to do so prior to the end of his junior season.A product of Independence, Missouri, Thompson produced a career season in 2019, setting career highs in passing yards (2,315), passing touchdowns (12), rushing yards (405) and rushing touchdowns (11) en route to Honorable Mention All-Big 12 accolades, the first Wildcat signal caller to earn postseason accolades from the league’s coaches since Waters in 2014.The Manning Award is the only quarterback award that includes the candidates’ bowl performances in its balloting. Ten finalists will be selected prior to the postseason and the winner will be announced following the College Football Playoff National Championship.--- K-State Athletics ---