CHICAGO -- St. Louis Cardinals reliever Roel Ramirez set a record in his debut -- just not the kind any pitcher wants.

The Chicago White Sox tied a major league mark with four consecutive home runs, all against Ramirez, and went on to beat the Cardinals 7-2 on Sunday.

Ramirez is the first pitcher to allow four straight homers in his debut. Yoan Moncada, Yasmani Grandal, Jose Abreu and Eloy Jimenez connected during a six-run fifth inning.

"Clearly, it gets you on your heels," Cardinals manager Mike Shildt said. "One of the reasons we liked Roel in spring training ... was the fact that he was not afraid to go after guys. He'd get after it."

Ramirez took the mound in the fifth with Chicago leading 1-0. He struck out Luis Robert to start, but things went south quickly. After two singles, a caught stealing and a walk, Moncada smacked a three-run homer to right.

Grandal followed with another drive into the right-field seats, and then Abreu and Jimenez each homered to left.

"It feels good every time that you hit a home run," Moncada said through an interpreter. "But it feels better when you're a part of history. ... It's definitely something special for all of us. I am very happy for it."

Shildt replaced Ramirez with the debuting Seth Elledge, and he struck out Edwin Encarnacion on three straight pitches to end the inning.

Ramirez is among the players promoted by the Cardinals following a COVID-19 outbreak that stalled St. Louis' season for 2 1/2 weeks. The club returned to action Saturday with a doubleheader sweep over Chicago.

Ramirez, a 25-year-old right-hander, split last season between Double-A and Triple-A.

"He got his first punchout today in the big leagues, which is pretty cool," Shildt said. "I have every confidence he's gonna go out and be aggressive when he gets an opportunity again."

It was the 10th time in major league history a team hit four straight homers. The only other time the White Sox did it was on Aug. 14, 2008 against Kansas City, when Jim Thome, Paul Konerko, Alexei Ramirez and Juan Uribe connected.

For Chicago, it was a big improvement after combining for just six hits in the doubleheader.

"It was a big inning, a huge inning," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "We needed something like that to kind of spark us. Albeit just one game, but certainly signs of the things that are capable of being done."

The White Sox got another solid start from Dallas Keuchel (3-2) and won for just the third time in 11 home games.

Keuchel gave up two runs and four hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 2015 AL Cy Young Award winner exited after Matt Carpenter hit a two-run single.

St. Louis' Dakota Hudson (0-2) held the White Sox to a run and two hits over four innings in his first start since July 26. But the Cardinals fell to 4-4. Every other team had played at least 14 games coming into the day.

Cardinals: LHP Austin Gomber could rejoin the club Monday and start the second game of a doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, Shildt said. He was placed on the injured list because he came up as a potential concern in contact tracing, though he did not test positive for COVID-19.

White Sox: Keuchel said his back tightened but wasn't worried about it. ... RHP Reynaldo Lopez (shoulder soreness), who threw Friday, is scheduled for another session Monday.

Cardinals: The Cardinals head to the North Side for five games in three days against the Cubs, starting with a doubleheader on Monday. St. Louis will go with LHP Kwang Hyun Kim (0-0, 9.00 ERA) in the opener and a bullpen start in the nightcap. RHP Kyle Hendricks (3-1, 3.08) starts the opener for Chicago. The Cubs have not said who will start the second game.

White Sox: LHP Gio Gonzalez (0-1, 6.61) gets another shot at the Tigers and his first Chicago win. The veteran, who was drafted by the White Sox in 2004 and signed with them in the offseason, wasn't thrilled when he got pulled one out shy of the victory Tuesday after holding Detroit to two runs in 4 2/3 innings. LHP Matthew Boyd (0-2, 10.24) starts for the Tigers.

Associated PressCHICAGO -- St. Louis Cardinals reliever Roel Ramirez set a record in his debut -- just not the kind any pitcher wants.The Chicago White Sox tied a major league mark with four consecutive home runs, all against Ramirez, and went on to beat the Cardinals 7-2 on Sunday.Ramirez is the first pitcher to allow four straight homers in his debut. Yoan Moncada, Yasmani Grandal, Jose Abreu and Eloy Jimenez connected during a six-run fifth inning."Clearly, it gets you on your heels," Cardinals manager Mike Shildt said. "One of the reasons we liked Roel in spring training ... was the fact that he was not afraid to go after guys. He'd get after it."Ramirez took the mound in the fifth with Chicago leading 1-0. He struck out Luis Robert to start, but things went south quickly. After two singles, a caught stealing and a walk, Moncada smacked a three-run homer to right.Grandal followed with another drive into the right-field seats, and then Abreu and Jimenez each homered to left."It feels good every time that you hit a home run," Moncada said through an interpreter. "But it feels better when you're a part of history. ... It's definitely something special for all of us. I am very happy for it."Shildt replaced Ramirez with the debuting Seth Elledge, and he struck out Edwin Encarnacion on three straight pitches to end the inning.Ramirez is among the players promoted by the Cardinals following a COVID-19 outbreak that stalled St. Louis' season for 2 1/2 weeks. The club returned to action Saturday with a doubleheader sweep over Chicago.Ramirez, a 25-year-old right-hander, split last season between Double-A and Triple-A."He got his first punchout today in the big leagues, which is pretty cool," Shildt said. "I have every confidence he's gonna go out and be aggressive when he gets an opportunity again."It was the 10th time in major league history a team hit four straight homers. The only other time the White Sox did it was on Aug. 14, 2008 against Kansas City, when Jim Thome, Paul Konerko, Alexei Ramirez and Juan Uribe connected.For Chicago, it was a big improvement after combining for just six hits in the doubleheader."It was a big inning, a huge inning," White Sox manager Rick Renteria said. "We needed something like that to kind of spark us. Albeit just one game, but certainly signs of the things that are capable of being done."KEUCHEL SHARPThe White Sox got another solid start from Dallas Keuchel (3-2) and won for just the third time in 11 home games.Keuchel gave up two runs and four hits in 5 2/3 innings. The 2015 AL Cy Young Award winner exited after Matt Carpenter hit a two-run single.St. Louis' Dakota Hudson (0-2) held the White Sox to a run and two hits over four innings in his first start since July 26. But the Cardinals fell to 4-4. Every other team had played at least 14 games coming into the day.TRAINER'S ROOMCardinals: LHP Austin Gomber could rejoin the club Monday and start the second game of a doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, Shildt said. He was placed on the injured list because he came up as a potential concern in contact tracing, though he did not test positive for COVID-19.White Sox: Keuchel said his back tightened but wasn't worried about it. ... RHP Reynaldo Lopez (shoulder soreness), who threw Friday, is scheduled for another session Monday.UP NEXTCardinals: The Cardinals head to the North Side for five games in three days against the Cubs, starting with a doubleheader on Monday. St. Louis will go with LHP Kwang Hyun Kim (0-0, 9.00 ERA) in the opener and a bullpen start in the nightcap. RHP Kyle Hendricks (3-1, 3.08) starts the opener for Chicago. The Cubs have not said who will start the second game.White Sox: LHP Gio Gonzalez (0-1, 6.61) gets another shot at the Tigers and his first Chicago win. The veteran, who was drafted by the White Sox in 2004 and signed with them in the offseason, wasn't thrilled when he got pulled one out shy of the victory Tuesday after holding Detroit to two runs in 4 2/3 innings. LHP Matthew Boyd (0-2, 10.24) starts for the Tigers.

Cardinals drop finale to White Sox 7-2

MINNEAPOLIS -- Whit Merrifield had three hits, including a three-run homer, to back Danny Duffy's strong start as the Kansas City Royals came back to beat the Minnesota Twins 4-2 and split Saturday's doubleheader.

Duffy (1-2) allowed two runs -- one earned -- on two hits in five innings. He struck out eight for Kansas City, which has won six of its past eight games, including a home sweep of Minnesota last week. Trevor Rosenthal issued a leadoff walk in the seventh but struck out the next three batters for his fifth save.

"We needed that from Duff right there," said Royals manager Mike Matheny, who earned his 600th win as a manager. "We needed him to get through five for us. He really showed something to us that last inning coming through and giving us an opportunity to get in there and hand the ball off to (Josh Staumont) and Rosy."

Nelson Cruz homered in both games of the doubleheader and now has 407 career home runs, tying Duke Snider for 56th on the all-time list. The Twins won Saturday's first game 4-2 as Cruz had a pair of hits.

In the second game, Merrifield lined a pitch into the left-field bleachers after Minnesota starter Jose Berrios (1-3) walked two batters earlier in the inning.

"This is the second time we're seeing Berrios in a row," Merrifield said. "Familiar with him, familiar with all of his pitches, seen all his pitches these last however many at-bats I've had. ... So, I saw a changeup out of his hand and it was a good pitch for me to hit."

Berrios gave up four runs in four innings. He surrendered five hits, tied a season-high with four walks and struck out six. He's given up eight runs in 9 1/3 innings in his past two starts, both coming against the Royals.

"Honestly I don't feel really far (off)," Berrios said of his pitches. "If I minimize the walk, I would be in better position. ... I want to take that positive step."

Duffy, who entered the game with the third-best ERA among Twins' opponent starters with at least 100 innings pitched since 2011, was rarely in trouble.

Minnesota scored once in the first following an error. Duffy retired 14 of 15 batters at one point, interrupted only by Cruz's sixth homer of the season that went off the facing of the second deck in straightaway center field.

"We never really got anything going," Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. "We have to give ourselves a little pat and say `That's on us, we have to give ourselves better at bats to give ourselves a chance."

Ian Kennedy started for the Royals and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018.

"Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I've literally done my entire life," Kennedy said. "You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine."

Jake Odorizzi was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn't allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game.

"I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself," Odorizzi said. "So, that's encouraging. I've still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction."

Saturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday's series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.

"First time I've played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader," Kennedy said. "You kind of catch yourself, it's the fifth inning, you're facing the back end of the bullpen (it's time to get going)."

Royals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game's primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.

Twins: 3B Josh Donaldson missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn't sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson's injury. He's dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.

Minnesota's surprise right-hander Randy Dobnak (3-1, 0.90 ERA) starts Sunday for the Twins. Kansas City counters with rookie RHP Brady Singer (1-1, 4.50). Dobnak has allowed two runs in 20 innings over four starts this season. Singer, the Royals' first-round draft pick in 2018, earned his first major league win last week against Minnesota when he gave up two runs in five innings.

Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS -- Whit Merrifield had three hits, including a three-run homer, to back Danny Duffy's strong start as the Kansas City Royals came back to beat the Minnesota Twins 4-2 and split Saturday's doubleheader.Duffy (1-2) allowed two runs -- one earned -- on two hits in five innings. He struck out eight for Kansas City, which has won six of its past eight games, including a home sweep of Minnesota last week. Trevor Rosenthal issued a leadoff walk in the seventh but struck out the next three batters for his fifth save."We needed that from Duff right there," said Royals manager Mike Matheny, who earned his 600th win as a manager. "We needed him to get through five for us. He really showed something to us that last inning coming through and giving us an opportunity to get in there and hand the ball off to (Josh Staumont) and Rosy."Nelson Cruz homered in both games of the doubleheader and now has 407 career home runs, tying Duke Snider for 56th on the all-time list. The Twins won Saturday's first game 4-2 as Cruz had a pair of hits.In the second game, Merrifield lined a pitch into the left-field bleachers after Minnesota starter Jose Berrios (1-3) walked two batters earlier in the inning."This is the second time we're seeing Berrios in a row," Merrifield said. "Familiar with him, familiar with all of his pitches, seen all his pitches these last however many at-bats I've had. ... So, I saw a changeup out of his hand and it was a good pitch for me to hit."Berrios gave up four runs in four innings. He surrendered five hits, tied a season-high with four walks and struck out six. He's given up eight runs in 9 1/3 innings in his past two starts, both coming against the Royals."Honestly I don't feel really far (off)," Berrios said of his pitches. "If I minimize the walk, I would be in better position. ... I want to take that positive step."Duffy, who entered the game with the third-best ERA among Twins' opponent starters with at least 100 innings pitched since 2011, was rarely in trouble.Minnesota scored once in the first following an error. Duffy retired 14 of 15 batters at one point, interrupted only by Cruz's sixth homer of the season that went off the facing of the second deck in straightaway center field."We never really got anything going," Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. "We have to give ourselves a little pat and say `That's on us, we have to give ourselves better at bats to give ourselves a chance."FIRST GAME STARTERSIan Kennedy started for the Royals and pitched two innings as the opener, his first start since Sept. 28, 2018."Going in today, it just went right back into that starter routine I've literally done my entire life," Kennedy said. "You have that routine for eight, nine years in big leagues. Last year, I had different routine. This year, I have a new routine."Jake Odorizzi was sharp early in his second start of the season following back trouble. He didn't allow a hit until Salvador Perez singled with two outs in the fourth and struck out six in the game."I felt much better today, much more stronger, more like myself," Odorizzi said. "So, that's encouraging. I've still got a little ways to go. Today was definitely a big step in the right direction."FIRST TASTESaturday marked the first doubleheader of the season for Minnesota and the Royals after severe weather postponed Friday's series opener. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games."First time I've played a seven-inning game since probably the minor leagues when you play a doubleheader," Kennedy said. "You kind of catch yourself, it's the fifth inning, you're facing the back end of the bullpen (it's time to get going)."TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: RHP Jake Junis was scheduled to follow Kennedy and be the game's primary pitcher, but he was shut down while warming up in the bullpen. The team announced that Junis had back spasms and low back discomfort.Twins: 3B Josh Donaldson missed his 12th straight game with a strained calf and doesn't sound close to rejoining the team. Chief Baseball Officer Derek Falvey said Friday that the team is going to be careful in regard to Donaldson's injury. He's dealt with similar nagging injuries in the past.UP NEXTMinnesota's surprise right-hander Randy Dobnak (3-1, 0.90 ERA) starts Sunday for the Twins. Kansas City counters with rookie RHP Brady Singer (1-1, 4.50). Dobnak has allowed two runs in 20 innings over four starts this season. Singer, the Royals' first-round draft pick in 2018, earned his first major league win last week against Minnesota when he gave up two runs in five innings.

Royals split doubleheader at Minnesota Saturday

CHICAGO -- From Kolten Wong's opening eight-pitch walk in the first game to Andrew Miller's save at the every end, the St. Louis Cardinals' long-awaited return from a coronavirus outbreak was a smashing success.

Paul Goldschmidt and Tyler O'Neill homered, and St. Louis beat the Chicago White Sox 6-3 on Saturday for a rousing doubleheader sweep for the reigning NL Central champions.

"It was what we do. We do it together," manager Mike Shildt said.

Playing for the first time since July 29, St. Louis used solid performances by Dexter Fowler and Adam Wainwright to post a 5-1 victory in Game 1. Then it battered Chicago's bullpen in the second seven-inning game -- part of shortened doubleheaders in the pandemic-delayed season.

The Cardinals improved to 4-3 with the sweep. Every other team in the majors had played at least 13 games coming into the day.

"We put a lot of team at-bats together, got some guys on, were able to drive some in," O'Neill said. "So it was a good day overall for us."

Trailing 3-1 heading into the fifth, the Cardinals went ahead to stay with a four-run rally. Goldschmidt hit an RBI single off Evan Marshall (0-1) before O'Neill belted a tiebreaking drive to left for his third homer.

Max Schrock and top prospect Dylan Carlson each got their first major league hit in the inning. Genesis Cabrera (1-0) pitched an inning for the win, and Miller got three outs for his first save of the season.

Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert homered for Chicago in the second game, but the White Sox had just six hits on the day. Lucas Giolito (1-2) allowed five runs, four earned, and six hits in five innings in the opener.

"We just weren't able to do a whole lot," manager Rick Renteria said. "Few guys on base, couple of hits. Not enough offense."

Wainwright (2-0) also recorded the team's previous win, beating Pittsburgh 9-1 on July 25. The Cardinals then dropped three in a row before a coronavirus outbreak shook up their roster and coaching staff, leaving them idle for weeks and resulting in 18 confirmed cases in the organization.

Wainwright, who turns 39 on Aug. 30, was a natural choice for their first game back, and he didn't look rusty at all. The right-hander allowed one run and two hits, struck out three and walked three in his second start of the year.

"Each pitch was all about expecting it to be great and not falling victim to excuses," he said. "The team that I was playing with today and the team I was playing against cares nothing about how long we've been out or whatever."

The White Sox never recovered after Giolito got off to a shaky start.

With one out and runners on first and second in the first, Giolito hit O'Neill and Matt Carpenter to force home a run. Carlson then struck out in his major league debut, but Fowler followed with a two-run single and Andrew Knizner singled in Carpenter to give St. Louis a 4-0 lead.

The Cardinals almost got another run in the first, but Fowler was cut down at home when he tried to score on Harrison Bader's base hit.

Giolito had looked good of late, going 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA over his previous three starts.

"It got better after the first inning, but it has to be better in the first," Giolito said. "I can't put us in a hole there."

Cardinals: LHP Austin Gomber was placed on the injured list. Gomber has not tested positive for COVID-19, but came up as a potential concern in contact tracing.

White Sox: RHP Reynaldo Lopez (shoulder soreness) threw Friday and is scheduled for another session Monday. "He threw well yesterday," Renteria said. "All indications are he had a nice day." ... Reliever Ian Hamilton was placed on the 10-day injured list because of a sore right shoulder, and utilityman Leury Garcia (sprained left thumb) was transferred to the 45-day injured list. Renteria said Garcia had an MRI that showed a severed ligament, requiring surgery. "Looks like October would be the potential return for him," Renteria said.

Cardinals right-hander Dakota Hudson (0-1, 8.31 ERA) and White Sox left-hander Dallas Keuchel (2-2, 3.04 ERA) start the series finale Sunday.

Associated PressCHICAGO -- From Kolten Wong's opening eight-pitch walk in the first game to Andrew Miller's save at the every end, the St. Louis Cardinals' long-awaited return from a coronavirus outbreak was a smashing success.Lots of air high-fives for the Cards.Paul Goldschmidt and Tyler O'Neill homered, and St. Louis beat the Chicago White Sox 6-3 on Saturday for a rousing doubleheader sweep for the reigning NL Central champions."It was what we do. We do it together," manager Mike Shildt said.Playing for the first time since July 29, St. Louis used solid performances by Dexter Fowler and Adam Wainwright to post a 5-1 victory in Game 1. Then it battered Chicago's bullpen in the second seven-inning game -- part of shortened doubleheaders in the pandemic-delayed season.The Cardinals improved to 4-3 with the sweep. Every other team in the majors had played at least 13 games coming into the day."We put a lot of team at-bats together, got some guys on, were able to drive some in," O'Neill said. "So it was a good day overall for us."Trailing 3-1 heading into the fifth, the Cardinals went ahead to stay with a four-run rally. Goldschmidt hit an RBI single off Evan Marshall (0-1) before O'Neill belted a tiebreaking drive to left for his third homer.Max Schrock and top prospect Dylan Carlson each got their first major league hit in the inning. Genesis Cabrera (1-0) pitched an inning for the win, and Miller got three outs for his first save of the season.Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert homered for Chicago in the second game, but the White Sox had just six hits on the day. Lucas Giolito (1-2) allowed five runs, four earned, and six hits in five innings in the opener."We just weren't able to do a whole lot," manager Rick Renteria said. "Few guys on base, couple of hits. Not enough offense."Wainwright (2-0) also recorded the team's previous win, beating Pittsburgh 9-1 on July 25. The Cardinals then dropped three in a row before a coronavirus outbreak shook up their roster and coaching staff, leaving them idle for weeks and resulting in 18 confirmed cases in the organization.Wainwright, who turns 39 on Aug. 30, was a natural choice for their first game back, and he didn't look rusty at all. The right-hander allowed one run and two hits, struck out three and walked three in his second start of the year."Each pitch was all about expecting it to be great and not falling victim to excuses," he said. "The team that I was playing with today and the team I was playing against cares nothing about how long we've been out or whatever."The White Sox never recovered after Giolito got off to a shaky start.With one out and runners on first and second in the first, Giolito hit O'Neill and Matt Carpenter to force home a run. Carlson then struck out in his major league debut, but Fowler followed with a two-run single and Andrew Knizner singled in Carpenter to give St. Louis a 4-0 lead.The Cardinals almost got another run in the first, but Fowler was cut down at home when he tried to score on Harrison Bader's base hit.Giolito had looked good of late, going 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA over his previous three starts."It got better after the first inning, but it has to be better in the first," Giolito said. "I can't put us in a hole there."TRAINER'S ROOMCardinals: LHP Austin Gomber was placed on the injured list. Gomber has not tested positive for COVID-19, but came up as a potential concern in contact tracing.White Sox: RHP Reynaldo Lopez (shoulder soreness) threw Friday and is scheduled for another session Monday. "He threw well yesterday," Renteria said. "All indications are he had a nice day." ... Reliever Ian Hamilton was placed on the 10-day injured list because of a sore right shoulder, and utilityman Leury Garcia (sprained left thumb) was transferred to the 45-day injured list. Renteria said Garcia had an MRI that showed a severed ligament, requiring surgery. "Looks like October would be the potential return for him," Renteria said.UP NEXTCardinals right-hander Dakota Hudson (0-1, 8.31 ERA) and White Sox left-hander Dallas Keuchel (2-2, 3.04 ERA) start the series finale Sunday.

Cardinals sweep White Sox in return from coronavirus break

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins postponed their game against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night because of stormy weather, scheduling a straight doubleheader on Saturday instead to start the series.

With darkened skies above Target Field and a steady rain just beginning to fall, the Twins called off the game right around the scheduled first pitch. About an hour later, a tornado warning was issued for Hennepin County

This was Minnesota's first postponed game of the 2020 season that began four months late due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Twins and Royals will continue their four-game series on Sunday and Monday. The Royals swept a three-game set from the Twins in Kansas City last weekend.

The doubleheader will start on Saturday at 12:35 p.m., with the second half of the twinbill scheduled to begin 30 minutes following the end of the first game. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.

To accommodate the St. Louis Cardinals, who haven't played since July 29 at Minnesota before COVID-19 spread through the organization, the Twins were scheduled for a twinbill at St. Louis on Sept. 8 to take care of their two-game series with the Cardinals in one day.

"In a doubleheader context, I'm open-minded to this," Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said earlier on Friday. He added: "The idea of us playing a little bit shorter, I would be open to personally."

Prior to the game, the Royals activated center fielder Bubba Starling from the injured list after nine days on the shelf. Starling didn't feel well, so the club erred on the side of COVID-19 caution by putting him on the IL. He had symptoms that raised concern about the virus, but he was not infected.

"Just a cold," Starling said. "It took me some days to get over it, but I'm feeling good now."

Jake Odorizzi was scheduled to start for the Twins on Friday. The Royals were planning to use Ian Kennedy as an opener, followed by Jakob Junis as the primary pitcher.

The Twins will send Odorizzi to the mound for the first game on Saturday, followed by Jose Berrios. Kennedy will open for the Royals, and Danny Duffy will take the second game.

Kennedy will make his first start since Sept. 28, 2018, a 687-day span. The 35-year-old right-hander, who became the closer last season, has 289 career major league starts. This will be the first time the Royals use an opener followed by a designated primary pitcher, though they have used relievers to start games a handful of times.

Odorizzi will make his second start of the season, after a delay due to back trouble. The Twins have carefully tread through the schedule with some minor injuries to their rotation, with Rich Hill and Homer Bailey still on the injured list. Hill threw a 60-pitch bullpen session at the team's alternate training site in St. Paul, and manager Rocco Baldelli said he expected Hill to start a game in the coming week.

The greater concern for the Twins is prized acquisition Josh Donaldson and his strained calf, which has kept him out for 11 games and counting. That injury has nagged the third baseman in the past.

"We're going to be careful here," Falvey said.

Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins postponed their game against the Kansas City Royals on Friday night because of stormy weather, scheduling a straight doubleheader on Saturday instead to start the series.With darkened skies above Target Field and a steady rain just beginning to fall, the Twins called off the game right around the scheduled first pitch. About an hour later, a tornado warning was issued for Hennepin CountyThis was Minnesota's first postponed game of the 2020 season that began four months late due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Twins and Royals will continue their four-game series on Sunday and Monday. The Royals swept a three-game set from the Twins in Kansas City last weekend.The doubleheader will start on Saturday at 12:35 p.m., with the second half of the twinbill scheduled to begin 30 minutes following the end of the first game. All doubleheaders in Major League Baseball during this virus-shortened 60-game season are seven-inning games.To accommodate the St. Louis Cardinals, who haven't played since July 29 at Minnesota before COVID-19 spread through the organization, the Twins were scheduled for a twinbill at St. Louis on Sept. 8 to take care of their two-game series with the Cardinals in one day."In a doubleheader context, I'm open-minded to this," Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said earlier on Friday. He added: "The idea of us playing a little bit shorter, I would be open to personally."Prior to the game, the Royals activated center fielder Bubba Starling from the injured list after nine days on the shelf. Starling didn't feel well, so the club erred on the side of COVID-19 caution by putting him on the IL. He had symptoms that raised concern about the virus, but he was not infected."Just a cold," Starling said. "It took me some days to get over it, but I'm feeling good now."Jake Odorizzi was scheduled to start for the Twins on Friday. The Royals were planning to use Ian Kennedy as an opener, followed by Jakob Junis as the primary pitcher.The Twins will send Odorizzi to the mound for the first game on Saturday, followed by Jose Berrios. Kennedy will open for the Royals, and Danny Duffy will take the second game.Kennedy will make his first start since Sept. 28, 2018, a 687-day span. The 35-year-old right-hander, who became the closer last season, has 289 career major league starts. This will be the first time the Royals use an opener followed by a designated primary pitcher, though they have used relievers to start games a handful of times.Odorizzi will make his second start of the season, after a delay due to back trouble. The Twins have carefully tread through the schedule with some minor injuries to their rotation, with Rich Hill and Homer Bailey still on the injured list. Hill threw a 60-pitch bullpen session at the team's alternate training site in St. Paul, and manager Rocco Baldelli said he expected Hill to start a game in the coming week.The greater concern for the Twins is prized acquisition Josh Donaldson and his strained calf, which has kept him out for 11 games and counting. That injury has nagged the third baseman in the past."We're going to be careful here," Falvey said.

Royals-Twins opener postponed by rain; doubleheader Saturday

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Matt-Williamson---MWSU-Football-Coach-ei52q7">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU FOOTBALL COACH MATT WILLIAMSON</a>

Dave Riggert had a chance to sit down with Missouri Western head football coach Matt Williamson after the MIAA's decision to suspend all fall sports until January.&nbsp;

<a href="https://anchor.fm/dave-riggert/episodes/Matt-Williamson---MWSU-Football-Coach-ei52q7">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO MWSU FOOTBALL COACH MATT WILLIAMSON</a>Dave Riggert had a chance to sit down with Missouri Western head football coach Matt Williamson after the MIAA's decision to suspend all fall sports until January.&nbsp;

MWSU's Williamson focused on the positives despite no football this fall

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (August 14, 2020) -&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council has announced emergency action for the Association and its member institutions in regard to the 2020-2021 athletic seasons and campus sport activities.&nbsp; The emergency action comes as a result of the COVID-19 Global Health Pandemic, the NCAA announcement to cancel Fall National Championships, and the recently released NCAA Board of Governors’ directives regarding the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-developing-standards-practice-and-competition">Resocialization of Collegiate Sport.</a> All MIAA fall sport competitions will be suspended until January 1, 2021. The Association will continue to explore the possibility of a limited number of competitions in football, volleyball, men's soccer, and women’s soccer in the spring, as permitted by the NCAA.&nbsp; The Conference office has also canceled the 2020 MIAA Virtual Football Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham in light of the suspension of the MIAA football schedule. “The health and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and our communities continues to be the Association's top priority,” stated President Steve Scott of Pittsburg State University, chairperson of the MIAA CEO Council. “The MIAA is taking these important actions today to help our athletic departments comply with these new NCAA membership requirements, and to assist our campuses as we continue to address this public health crisis.” All NCAA athletically related activities (in all MIAA sports), including in-season practices, out-of-season practices, weight training, team athletically related meetings, and voluntary workouts directed by staff or in institutional facilities shall be permitted this fall based on each institution’s ability to comply with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/requirements-each-division-related-conduct-fall-sports-and-championships-faqs">August 11th NCAA Policy Clarifications</a>&nbsp;document regarding the requirements for each division to conduct fall sports (non-competition) activities.&nbsp; The Association will delay a decision on the winter sports competition schedule until October 1 at the latest.&nbsp; “The MIAA CEO Council will continue to monitor this fluid and evolving situation for college athletics, and make necessary changes to this plan per updated NCAA guidance and restrictions,” added MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy. MIAA leadership at member institutions will continue to work together and seek guidance from the NCAA on the NCAA Board of Governors’ directives and the Resocialization of Collegiate Sport Guidelines.&nbsp; The Association will continue to place the health, safety, and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, and administrators as its top priority.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (August 14, 2020) -&nbsp;The MIAA CEO Council has announced emergency action for the Association and its member institutions in regard to the 2020-2021 athletic seasons and campus sport activities.&nbsp; The emergency action comes as a result of the COVID-19 Global Health Pandemic, the NCAA announcement to cancel Fall National Championships, and the recently released NCAA Board of Governors’ directives regarding the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/resocialization-collegiate-sport-developing-standards-practice-and-competition">Resocialization of Collegiate Sport.</a> All MIAA fall sport competitions will be suspended until January 1, 2021. The Association will continue to explore the possibility of a limited number of competitions in football, volleyball, men's soccer, and women’s soccer in the spring, as permitted by the NCAA.&nbsp; The Conference office has also canceled the 2020 MIAA Virtual Football Media Day presented by Seigfreid Bingham in light of the suspension of the MIAA football schedule. “The health and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and our communities continues to be the Association's top priority,” stated President Steve Scott of Pittsburg State University, chairperson of the MIAA CEO Council. “The MIAA is taking these important actions today to help our athletic departments comply with these new NCAA membership requirements, and to assist our campuses as we continue to address this public health crisis.” All NCAA athletically related activities (in all MIAA sports), including in-season practices, out-of-season practices, weight training, team athletically related meetings, and voluntary workouts directed by staff or in institutional facilities shall be permitted this fall based on each institution’s ability to comply with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncaa.org/sport-science-institute/requirements-each-division-related-conduct-fall-sports-and-championships-faqs">August 11th NCAA Policy Clarifications</a>&nbsp;document regarding the requirements for each division to conduct fall sports (non-competition) activities.&nbsp; The Association will delay a decision on the winter sports competition schedule until October 1 at the latest.&nbsp; “The MIAA CEO Council will continue to monitor this fluid and evolving situation for college athletics, and make necessary changes to this plan per updated NCAA guidance and restrictions,” added MIAA Commissioner Mike Racy. MIAA leadership at member institutions will continue to work together and seek guidance from the NCAA on the NCAA Board of Governors’ directives and the Resocialization of Collegiate Sport Guidelines.&nbsp; The Association will continue to place the health, safety, and well-being of MIAA student-athletes, coaches, and administrators as its top priority.--- MIAA Release ---

MIAA suspends all fall sports until January

MARYVILLE, Missouri – Due to the suspension of the 2020 Northwest Missouri State University
football regular season, the Bearcat athletic department is announcing the
options available to season ticket holders. &nbsp; 
"We are disappointed to have the fall 2020 sports seasons suspended and
want to make sure our loyal fans and season tickets holders are aware of the
opportunities to support Bearcat Athletics," Director of Athletics Andy
Peterson said. "Intercollegiate athletics provides many positive outlets
for student-athletes, coaches, administrators and fans. We are coping with many
different outcomes as a result of COVID-19 and entering areas that
intercollegiate athletics have never encountered before. We want to honor
scholarships to those student-athletes who have worked so hard to represent us in
their competitive areas and whose careers have now been impacted so negatively.
Our fans continued support of Bearcat Athletics is so appreciated and allows us
to continue providing first-class experiences for all of our
student-athletes." 
Football season ticket holders, who have yet to renew, are encouraged to
consider a gift to the Northwest Foundation to support the Bearcat Athletics
Scholarship Fund. 
The options for season ticket holders are as follows: 
Season Ticket Holders: 
1.Transfer ticket payments to the Northwest Foundation Bearcat Athletics
Scholarship Fund as a 100% tax-deductible donation and honor your previous
Bearcat Booster Club contribution.* 
2.Request a refund of ticket payments, but honor previous Bearcat Booster Club
contribution. 
3.Full refund of ticket money and Bearcat Booster Club contribution. 
Priority Seating (Chairback/Railback/Stadium Club/Suite) Season Ticket
Holders: 
1.Transfer ticket payments to the Northwest Foundation Athletics Scholarship
Fund as a 100% tax-deductible donation and convert your priority seating
payment to a tax-deductible donation.* 
2.Request a refund of ticket payments, but convert your priority seating
payment to a tax-deductible donation. 
3.Request that Bearcat Athletics contact you about other options. 
Please click on the link below and enter your name, address, phone, and email;
then select the option for how you want your season-ticket payment to be
processed. Bearcat Athletics will start the process of moving funds and/or
refunding our season-ticket holders as soon as possible. <a href="http://survey.nwmissouri.edu/ir/rws5.pl?FORM=FootballSeasonTickets" target="_blank">http://survey.nwmissouri.edu/ir/rws5.pl?FORM=FootballSeasonTickets</a>

MARYVILLE, Missouri – Due to the suspension of the 2020 Northwest Missouri State University
football regular season, the Bearcat athletic department is announcing the
options available to season ticket holders. &nbsp; 
"We are disappointed to have the fall 2020 sports seasons suspended and
want to make sure our loyal fans and season tickets holders are aware of the
opportunities to support Bearcat Athletics," Director of Athletics Andy
Peterson said. "Intercollegiate athletics provides many positive outlets
for student-athletes, coaches, administrators and fans. We are coping with many
different outcomes as a result of COVID-19 and entering areas that
intercollegiate athletics have never encountered before. We want to honor
scholarships to those student-athletes who have worked so hard to represent us in
their competitive areas and whose careers have now been impacted so negatively.
Our fans continued support of Bearcat Athletics is so appreciated and allows us
to continue providing first-class experiences for all of our
student-athletes." 
Football season ticket holders, who have yet to renew, are encouraged to
consider a gift to the Northwest Foundation to support the Bearcat Athletics
Scholarship Fund. 
The options for season ticket holders are as follows: 
Season Ticket Holders: 
1.Transfer ticket payments to the Northwest Foundation Bearcat Athletics
Scholarship Fund as a 100% tax-deductible donation and honor your previous
Bearcat Booster Club contribution.* 
2.Request a refund of ticket payments, but honor previous Bearcat Booster Club
contribution. 
3.Full refund of ticket money and Bearcat Booster Club contribution. 
Priority Seating (Chairback/Railback/Stadium Club/Suite) Season Ticket
Holders: 
1.Transfer ticket payments to the Northwest Foundation Athletics Scholarship
Fund as a 100% tax-deductible donation and convert your priority seating
payment to a tax-deductible donation.* 
2.Request a refund of ticket payments, but convert your priority seating
payment to a tax-deductible donation. 
3.Request that Bearcat Athletics contact you about other options. 
Please click on the link below and enter your name, address, phone, and email;
then select the option for how you want your season-ticket payment to be
processed. Bearcat Athletics will start the process of moving funds and/or
refunding our season-ticket holders as soon as possible. <a href="http://survey.nwmissouri.edu/ir/rws5.pl?FORM=FootballSeasonTickets" target="_blank">http://survey.nwmissouri.edu/ir/rws5.pl?FORM=FootballSeasonTickets</a>--- Northwest Athletics ---

Northwest announces football season ticket holder options

LAWRENCE, KAN. -- Kansas football will host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for its season-opener on Sept. 12, Kansas Athletics announced today.

The game will serve as Kansas’ non-conference game, replacing its previously schedule contest against Southern Illinois, originally scheduled for Aug. 29. Kansas was originally scheduled to play at Coastal Carolina in Conway, S.C. on Sept. 26, but will instead make a trip to play the Chanticleers in 2021.

Overall, KU stands 5-2 in its seven contests against the Sun Belt Conference, while the Sept. 12 matchup is the second in the series history between Kansas and Coastal Carolina. The Jayhawks fell to the Chanticleers in the program’s first matchup a season ago, 7-12.

The Jayhawks are 1-1 all-time in games played on Sept. 12, defeating Washington State in 1970, 48-31.

After hosting Coastal Carolina, the Jayhawks will begin Big 12 Conference competition by traveling to take on the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26. 

LAWRENCE, KAN. -- Kansas football will host the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium for its season-opener on Sept. 12, Kansas Athletics announced today.The game will serve as Kansas’ non-conference game, replacing its previously schedule contest against Southern Illinois, originally scheduled for Aug. 29. Kansas was originally scheduled to play at Coastal Carolina in Conway, S.C. on Sept. 26, but will instead make a trip to play the Chanticleers in 2021.Overall, KU stands 5-2 in its seven contests against the Sun Belt Conference, while the Sept. 12 matchup is the second in the series history between Kansas and Coastal Carolina. The Jayhawks fell to the Chanticleers in the program’s first matchup a season ago, 7-12.The Jayhawks are 1-1 all-time in games played on Sept. 12, defeating Washington State in 1970, 48-31.After hosting Coastal Carolina, the Jayhawks will begin Big 12 Conference competition by traveling to take on the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26. --- KU Athletics ---

KU football to host Coastal Carolina in season opener September 12

SPRINGFIELD – Missouri State University Director of Athletics Kyle Moats announced Friday (Aug. 14) the Bears have scheduled three non-conference football games to be played this fall, beginning with the Sept. 12 opener at Oklahoma.

The Bears will also play a “home and home” football series with Central Arkansas, starting with a Sept. 26 contest in Conway before an Oct. 17 homecoming rematch in Springfield at Plaster Stadium. Both games against UCA will kick off at 7 p.m.

The Missouri Valley Football Conference previously announced on Aug. 7 that its eight-game conference slate would be played in the spring with that league schedule to be announced at a later date.

“The health and safety of our student-athletes was paramount throughout this process,” said Moats. “I appreciate the fact that the Big XII has appropriately made every opportunity for our student-athletes to participate and provided safety and health protocols for teams to adhere to. I can’t thank Joe Castiglione and his staff enough for their transparency, communication and friendship during this time. We look forward to playing Oklahoma on Sept. 12. 

“I also want to thank Brad Teague at UCA for his willingness to play home and home in the same year. Their proximity made perfect sense for us to play, and it allows us to be fiscally responsible while adhering to the NCAA guidelines. I’m especially excited that we will get to play a home game on homecoming. As much as we can honor our traditions, it’s a great thing for students, alumni and our students-athletes. I know the community will enjoy getting to see football at Plaster Stadium this fall.”

A start time for the Oklahoma game has yet to be determined. Masks will be required for all spectators for the OU game, while ticket procedures will be determined by local guidelines in advance of the game. Ticket information for the Oklahoma game is available at SoonerSports.com.

Likewise, stadium and ticketing protocols for the 2020 homecoming game against UCA will be announced at a later date.

SPRINGFIELD – Missouri State University Director of Athletics Kyle Moats announced Friday (Aug. 14) the Bears have scheduled three non-conference football games to be played this fall, beginning with the Sept. 12 opener at Oklahoma.The Bears will also play a “home and home” football series with Central Arkansas, starting with a Sept. 26 contest in Conway before an Oct. 17 homecoming rematch in Springfield at Plaster Stadium. Both games against UCA will kick off at 7 p.m.The Missouri Valley Football Conference previously announced on Aug. 7 that its eight-game conference slate would be played in the spring with that league schedule to be announced at a later date.“The health and safety of our student-athletes was paramount throughout this process,” said Moats. “I appreciate the fact that the Big XII has appropriately made every opportunity for our student-athletes to participate and provided safety and health protocols for teams to adhere to. I can’t thank Joe Castiglione and his staff enough for their transparency, communication and friendship during this time. We look forward to playing Oklahoma on Sept. 12. “I also want to thank Brad Teague at UCA for his willingness to play home and home in the same year. Their proximity made perfect sense for us to play, and it allows us to be fiscally responsible while adhering to the NCAA guidelines. I’m especially excited that we will get to play a home game on homecoming. As much as we can honor our traditions, it’s a great thing for students, alumni and our students-athletes. I know the community will enjoy getting to see football at Plaster Stadium this fall.”A start time for the Oklahoma game has yet to be determined. Masks will be required for all spectators for the OU game, while ticket procedures will be determined by local guidelines in advance of the game. Ticket information for the Oklahoma game is available at SoonerSports.com.Likewise, stadium and ticketing protocols for the 2020 homecoming game against UCA will be announced at a later date.--- Missouri State Athletics ---

Missouri State announces revised non-conference football schedule

Based on continuing uncertainty around the ability to play full-season league schedules safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the lack of a fall NCAA championship opportunity, the Missouri Valley Conference has announced the postponement of Conference schedules and championships in MVC-sponsored fall sports.

The decision impacts MVC sports that compete in their championship seasons in the fall (men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, and women’s volleyball).  The Conference will continue to evaluate options for conducting MVC competition in these sports and potentially participating in NCAA championships during the spring of 2021.

Plans for MVC-sponsored winter and spring sports (men's and women's basketball, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track &amp; field; women's swimming and diving; baseball; softball; women's tennis; and men's and women's golf) are not impacted at this time.

During the fall months, MVC student-athletes in all sports will be allowed to participate in athletically-related activities (e.g., nonconference competition, practices, strength and conditioning sessions, team meetings) consistent with institutional policies, public health guidelines and NCAA and Conference regulations.

The MVC COVID-19 Working Group consisting of athletics administrators, faculty athletics representatives, sports medicine personnel and student-athletes will continue to monitor the national and local landscapes and work diligently to develop protocols for a safe return to MVC regular-season and championship competition by the Conference’s student-athletes.  

Based on continuing uncertainty around the ability to play full-season league schedules safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the lack of a fall NCAA championship opportunity, the Missouri Valley Conference has announced the postponement of Conference schedules and championships in MVC-sponsored fall sports.The decision impacts MVC sports that compete in their championship seasons in the fall (men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, and women’s volleyball). The Conference will continue to evaluate options for conducting MVC competition in these sports and potentially participating in NCAA championships during the spring of 2021.Plans for MVC-sponsored winter and spring sports (men's and women's basketball, men's and women's indoor and outdoor track &amp; field; women's swimming and diving; baseball; softball; women's tennis; and men's and women's golf) are not impacted at this time.During the fall months, MVC student-athletes in all sports will be allowed to participate in athletically-related activities (e.g., nonconference competition, practices, strength and conditioning sessions, team meetings) consistent with institutional policies, public health guidelines and NCAA and Conference regulations.The MVC COVID-19 Working Group consisting of athletics administrators, faculty athletics representatives, sports medicine personnel and student-athletes will continue to monitor the national and local landscapes and work diligently to develop protocols for a safe return to MVC regular-season and championship competition by the Conference’s student-athletes. --- MVC Release ---

Missouri Valley Conference postpones all fall sports

MANHATTAN, Kan. – For a second-consecutive season, Kansas State senior quarterback Skylar Thompson has been named to the watch list for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, the award’s committee has announced.

He is the first player in school history to be a two-time candidate for the award. Current K-State quarterbacks coach Collin Klein was the 2012 winner, while Chad May (1994) and Michael Bishop (1998) were finalists, and Jake Waters was a preseason candidate in 2014.

The mention on the Golden Arm Award watch list is Thompson’s fourth this preseason as he is also a candidate for the Maxwell Award, Manning Award and Wuerffel Trophy. He is one of 48 players on the Golden Arm Award watch list, including five Big 12 signal callers.

A native of Independence, Missouri, Thompson enters his final season at K-State ranked in the top 10 in school history in 10 career categories, while he is on the cusp of becoming the first player in school history to throw for 6,000 career yards and rush for 1,000 career yards.

Thompson is coming off a banner year in 2019 when he set career highs in passing yards (2,315), passing touchdowns (12), rushing yards (405) and rushing touchdowns (11) as he earned 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 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award is presented annually to the top senior and upperclassman quarterback set to graduate with their class by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Selection Committee. Candidates are chosen based on player performance on and off the field.

Kansas State opens the 2020 season – the 125th in school history – on Saturday, September 12 as the Wildcats host Arkansas State.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – For a second-consecutive season, Kansas State senior quarterback Skylar Thompson has been named to the watch list for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, the award’s committee has announced.He is the first player in school history to be a two-time candidate for the award. Current K-State quarterbacks coach Collin Klein was the 2012 winner, while Chad May (1994) and Michael Bishop (1998) were finalists, and Jake Waters was a preseason candidate in 2014.The mention on the Golden Arm Award watch list is Thompson’s fourth this preseason as he is also a candidate for the Maxwell Award, Manning Award and Wuerffel Trophy. He is one of 48 players on the Golden Arm Award watch list, including five Big 12 signal callers.A native of Independence, Missouri, Thompson enters his final season at K-State ranked in the top 10 in school history in 10 career categories, while he is on the cusp of becoming the first player in school history to throw for 6,000 career yards and rush for 1,000 career yards.Thompson is coming off a banner year in 2019 when he set career highs in passing yards (2,315), passing touchdowns (12), rushing yards (405) and rushing touchdowns (11) as he earned 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 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award is presented annually to the top senior and upperclassman quarterback set to graduate with their class by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Selection Committee. Candidates are chosen based on player performance on and off the field.Kansas State opens the 2020 season – the 125th in school history – on Saturday, September 12 as the Wildcats host Arkansas State.--- K-State Athletics ---

K-State’s Thompson named to Golden Arm Award watch list

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs weren't done when they signed star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a record-setting extension, or when they put together a pricey package to keep Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones on the line.

Now, they're shelling out more big money to keep tight end Travis Kelce in the fold.

The Chiefs and the two-time All-Pro agreed to a four-year, $57.25 million extension Thursday that will keep him with the Super Bowl champions through 2025, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced.

The deal came the same day the San Francisco 49ers and their All-Pro tight end, George Kittle, agreed to a five-year, $75 million extension, a person familiar with that contract told AP. Kittle and Kelce, who were on opposing sidelines during the Super Bowl in February, long ago established themselves as the clear-cut top two tight ends in the game.

The Chiefs rallied in the second half to win their first championship in 50 years. And as the Chiefs spent the offseason securing their core players by giving Mahomes a 10-year extension that could be worth a half-billion dollars, and Jones a four-year, $85 million deal, it left Kelce confident that it was merely the first of what could be many Super Bowls.

“The guys coming in this office, they know what this team is capable of,” he said as the Chiefs reported to training camp, which is being held at their practice facility because of the coronavirus pandemic. “It shows in what we did last year and who all we have coming back, which means we have just about every single leader that we had in this locker room.”

Kelce quickly grew into a leader after a standout college career marked by some off-the-field issues that caused his draft stock to plummet. The Chiefs selected him in the third round in 2013 and, after missing most of his rookie season because of a knee injury, he immediately moved into the lineup and became a match-up nightmare for opposing defenses.

The affable and outspoken Kelce has been voted to five consecutive Pro Bowls, and he's put together four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons. He also has excelled under the brightest of lights, catching 10 passes for 134 yards and three TDs in a playoff win over Houston, three more passes in an AFC championship win over Tennessee, and then grabbing six passes for 43 yards and a touchdown in helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers.

“He’s athletic. I think he’s instinctive. His routes don’t look like anybody else's routes,” Titans coach Mike Vrabel said. “I mean, the route is to get open at whatever depth the quarterback wants. He can freeze guys, and then burst across the field. He’s got great catch radius. I mean, he’s tall, he’s long, he’s athletic, he’s tough, and it’s a tough challenge.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs weren't done when they signed star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a record-setting extension, or when they put together a pricey package to keep Pro Bowl defensive tackle Chris Jones on the line.Now, they're shelling out more big money to keep tight end Travis Kelce in the fold.The Chiefs and the two-time All-Pro agreed to a four-year, $57.25 million extension Thursday that will keep him with the Super Bowl champions through 2025, a person familiar with the contract told The Associated Press. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal had not been announced.The deal came the same day the San Francisco 49ers and their All-Pro tight end, George Kittle, agreed to a five-year, $75 million extension, a person familiar with that contract told AP. Kittle and Kelce, who were on opposing sidelines during the Super Bowl in February, long ago established themselves as the clear-cut top two tight ends in the game.The Chiefs rallied in the second half to win their first championship in 50 years. And as the Chiefs spent the offseason securing their core players by giving Mahomes a 10-year extension that could be worth a half-billion dollars, and Jones a four-year, $85 million deal, it left Kelce confident that it was merely the first of what could be many Super Bowls.“The guys coming in this office, they know what this team is capable of,” he said as the Chiefs reported to training camp, which is being held at their practice facility because of the coronavirus pandemic. “It shows in what we did last year and who all we have coming back, which means we have just about every single leader that we had in this locker room.”Kelce quickly grew into a leader after a standout college career marked by some off-the-field issues that caused his draft stock to plummet. The Chiefs selected him in the third round in 2013 and, after missing most of his rookie season because of a knee injury, he immediately moved into the lineup and became a match-up nightmare for opposing defenses.The affable and outspoken Kelce has been voted to five consecutive Pro Bowls, and he's put together four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons. He also has excelled under the brightest of lights, catching 10 passes for 134 yards and three TDs in a playoff win over Houston, three more passes in an AFC championship win over Tennessee, and then grabbing six passes for 43 yards and a touchdown in helping the Chiefs to a 31-20 victory over the 49ers.“He’s athletic. I think he’s instinctive. His routes don’t look like anybody else's routes,” Titans coach Mike Vrabel said. “I mean, the route is to get open at whatever depth the quarterback wants. He can freeze guys, and then burst across the field. He’s got great catch radius. I mean, he’s tall, he’s long, he’s athletic, he’s tough, and it’s a tough challenge.”--- Associated Press ---

AP Source: Chiefs, Kelce Agree to 4-Year, $57.25M Extension

(AP) - The NCAA will not conduct fall championship events — a move that does not affect major college football — because not enough schools are competing in sports such as men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.

NCAA President Mark Emmert made the announcement in video posted on Twitter, but it has been clear this was coming.

“Sadly, tragically that’s going to be the case this fall. Full stop,” Emmert said. “That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t and can’t turn toward winter and spring and say, ‘How can we create a legitimate championship for those students?’ There are ways to do this. I am completely confident we can figure this out.”

Last week the NCAA Board of Governors said championship events in a sport would canceled if fewer than 50% of the teams competing in that sports played a regular season.

Divisions II and III almost immediately followed by canceling their fall championships. Division I — which is comprised of 357 schools — held on, but as conference after conference canceled their fall seasons the tipping point came.

Falls sports also include field hockey, cross-country and water polo. Schools in conference that have not yet canceled their fall seasons could conceivably try to stage regular season competition.

The highest tier of Division I football, the Bowl Subdivision, is not impacted. The College Football Playoff is run by the conferences and six of those leagues are still moving toward having a season, including the Southeastern Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference and Big 12.

(AP) - The NCAA will not conduct fall championship events — a move that does not affect major college football — because not enough schools are competing in sports such as men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.NCAA President Mark Emmert made the announcement in video posted on Twitter, but it has been clear this was coming.“Sadly, tragically that’s going to be the case this fall. Full stop,” Emmert said. “That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t and can’t turn toward winter and spring and say, ‘How can we create a legitimate championship for those students?’ There are ways to do this. I am completely confident we can figure this out.”Last week the NCAA Board of Governors said championship events in a sport would canceled if fewer than 50% of the teams competing in that sports played a regular season.Divisions II and III almost immediately followed by canceling their fall championships. Division I — which is comprised of 357 schools — held on, but as conference after conference canceled their fall seasons the tipping point came.Falls sports also include field hockey, cross-country and water polo. Schools in conference that have not yet canceled their fall seasons could conceivably try to stage regular season competition.The highest tier of Division I football, the Bowl Subdivision, is not impacted. The College Football Playoff is run by the conferences and six of those leagues are still moving toward having a season, including the Southeastern Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference and Big 12.--- Associated Press ---

NCAA cancels all Division I fall championships except football

Columbia, Mo.- The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday morning August 13, 2020. The Board took action to approve alternate seasons if a school has a sport or sports that cannot continue in the traditional season.

“The traditional seasons are still being offered at this time for those schools able to participate,” said MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Kerwin Urhahn, “Today’s action by the Board of Directors puts into place a plan of action our staff devised in the event a school is not able to participate partially or in whole. This could give those students an opportunity to complete a season in their sport.”

Schools may use the alternate Fall sport seasons for any sport if the sport meets certain thresholds including, but not limited to, length of traditional season participation and access to traditional postseason. Schools choosing to use the alternate Fall season for any sport will automatically be included in the alternate Spring season. Schools may opt out of any alternate Spring sport season(s) by contacting the MSHSAA office.

In the plan, the Winter season would remain intact with the first possible practice being Monday, November 1st. The Winter season concludes on March 20th. Schools would be allowed to join the Winter season when their local guidelines allow.

In the alternate Fall season, the first allowable competitions would be able to begin on March 12th and concluding by May 1st. For the alternate Spring season, competitions would be able to begin on May 14th and conclude by July 10th. A school’s team competing in an alternate season for any sport may not exceed the allowable number of weeks allowed in the traditional season as well as not exceed any contest limitations of the traditional season. 

Columbia, Mo.- The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Board of Directors met virtually on Thursday morning August 13, 2020. The Board took action to approve alternate seasons if a school has a sport or sports that cannot continue in the traditional season.“The traditional seasons are still being offered at this time for those schools able to participate,” said MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Kerwin Urhahn, “Today’s action by the Board of Directors puts into place a plan of action our staff devised in the event a school is not able to participate partially or in whole. This could give those students an opportunity to complete a season in their sport.”Schools may use the alternate Fall sport seasons for any sport if the sport meets certain thresholds including, but not limited to, length of traditional season participation and access to traditional postseason. Schools choosing to use the alternate Fall season for any sport will automatically be included in the alternate Spring season. Schools may opt out of any alternate Spring sport season(s) by contacting the MSHSAA office.In the plan, the Winter season would remain intact with the first possible practice being Monday, November 1st. The Winter season concludes on March 20th. Schools would be allowed to join the Winter season when their local guidelines allow.In the alternate Fall season, the first allowable competitions would be able to begin on March 12th and concluding by May 1st. For the alternate Spring season, competitions would be able to begin on May 14th and conclude by July 10th. A school’s team competing in an alternate season for any sport may not exceed the allowable number of weeks allowed in the traditional season as well as not exceed any contest limitations of the traditional season. --- MSHSAA Release ---

MSHSAA Board of Directors approves possible alternative schedules

CINCINNATI -- Bases loaded, one out, another close game on the verge of slipping away. The strain showed on Mike Matheny's face in the ninth inning -- not that anyone could tell.

Salvador Perez had three more hits, and Kansas City's bullpen barely held on for a 5-4 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday that had everyone's blood pressure up at the end.

"It got a little elevated, I'll admit," Matheny said. "The masks -- that's one of the benefits of these things. They hide how you're feeling at this time."

The Royals were squirming when Trevor Rosenthal walked the bases loaded with one out in the ninth. Christian Colon -- whose single in the 12th inning sent the Royals over the Mets in the 2015 World Series -- grounded into a double play to end it.

The Royals have won five out of six, walking that tightrope much of the time. Kansas City has already played eight one-run games, going 3-5. Twelve of their 19 games have been decided by two runs or less.

"That inning is such a microcosm of how our last couple weeks have been going," said Rosenthal, who got his fourth save in as many chances. "We've just been fighting so hard."

The Reds wasted a chance to get back to .500 and had their only left-handed starter leave in the second inning again.

Wade Miley (0-2) signed a two-year, $15 million deal in the offseason. He retired only five batters during his Reds debut, giving up six runs in a loss to the Cubs on July 27, and went on the injured list with a strained groin afterward.

Miley appeared to hurt himself when he stepped awkwardly while covering first base in the second inning Wednesday. After talking to a trainer, Miley stayed in the game, walked the next batter and was removed after only 43 pitches.

Miley said he left because of how he was struggling with his control.

"I guess they thought I landed on the bag funny, but I was completely fine there," Miley said.

The Royals' offense has led the way during the surge. It scored one run at a time to keep it going, led by Perez's homer, double and single.

Brad Keller (2-0) allowed two singles in six shutout innings. He was acquired from Cincinnati in the 2017 Rule 5 Draft.

Jesse Winker, Freddy Galvis and Josh VanMeter homered in the seventh, cutting it to 5-4. Josh Staumont escaped a two-on threat in the eighth with a pair of called third strikes, and Rosenthal provided the final drama.

Perez connected for his fourth homer off Tyler Mahle, extending his hitting streak to 10 games -- his longest since 2017. He's batting .429 (18 for 42) during the streak.

The Royals are 17-10 all-time vs. the Reds, including 12-4 since the start of 2009. They're 8-4 at Great American Ball Park, the best mark by a team with at least 10 games.

Matheny's next win will be his 600th as a manager. He'll join Dusty Baker, Terry Francona, Joe Maddon, Bob Melvin, Ron Gardenhire, Joe Girardi, Bud Black and Don Mattingly as active managers with 600.

The game was delayed 17 minutes in the bottom of the first inning when plate umpire Chris Conroy took a foul off his right hand, breaking the ring finger. Crew chief Jeff Nelson moved behind the plate for the next two innings, and Conroy returned and worked third base with his finger bandaged.

Royals: Adalberto Mondesi was hit in the right arm by a pitch in the fourth but stayed in the game.

Reds: Miley was reinstated from the 10-day injured list pregame and right-hander Joel Kuhnel was optioned.

Royals: After a day off, KC opens a series in Minneapolis. Jakob Junis (0-0) faces the Twins for the second time in a week. He allowed two solo homers in 4 2/3 innings last Friday. Junis is trying for his first win in five starts.

Reds: Anthony DeSclafani (1-0) opens a four-game series against the Pirates. He's 0-4 in his last six starts against Pittsburgh, with the Reds losing all six games.

Associated PressCINCINNATI -- Bases loaded, one out, another close game on the verge of slipping away. The strain showed on Mike Matheny's face in the ninth inning -- not that anyone could tell.Salvador Perez had three more hits, and Kansas City's bullpen barely held on for a 5-4 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday that had everyone's blood pressure up at the end."It got a little elevated, I'll admit," Matheny said. "The masks -- that's one of the benefits of these things. They hide how you're feeling at this time."The Royals were squirming when Trevor Rosenthal walked the bases loaded with one out in the ninth. Christian Colon -- whose single in the 12th inning sent the Royals over the Mets in the 2015 World Series -- grounded into a double play to end it.The Royals have won five out of six, walking that tightrope much of the time. Kansas City has already played eight one-run games, going 3-5. Twelve of their 19 games have been decided by two runs or less."That inning is such a microcosm of how our last couple weeks have been going," said Rosenthal, who got his fourth save in as many chances. "We've just been fighting so hard."The Reds wasted a chance to get back to .500 and had their only left-handed starter leave in the second inning again.Wade Miley (0-2) signed a two-year, $15 million deal in the offseason. He retired only five batters during his Reds debut, giving up six runs in a loss to the Cubs on July 27, and went on the injured list with a strained groin afterward.Miley appeared to hurt himself when he stepped awkwardly while covering first base in the second inning Wednesday. After talking to a trainer, Miley stayed in the game, walked the next batter and was removed after only 43 pitches.Miley said he left because of how he was struggling with his control."I guess they thought I landed on the bag funny, but I was completely fine there," Miley said.The Royals' offense has led the way during the surge. It scored one run at a time to keep it going, led by Perez's homer, double and single.Brad Keller (2-0) allowed two singles in six shutout innings. He was acquired from Cincinnati in the 2017 Rule 5 Draft.The bullpen had two narrow escapes.Jesse Winker, Freddy Galvis and Josh VanMeter homered in the seventh, cutting it to 5-4. Josh Staumont escaped a two-on threat in the eighth with a pair of called third strikes, and Rosenthal provided the final drama."That was kind of fun, huh?" Perez said.Perez connected for his fourth homer off Tyler Mahle, extending his hitting streak to 10 games -- his longest since 2017. He's batting .429 (18 for 42) during the streak.LOVE THE PLACEThe Royals are 17-10 all-time vs. the Reds, including 12-4 since the start of 2009. They're 8-4 at Great American Ball Park, the best mark by a team with at least 10 games.ONE MOREMatheny's next win will be his 600th as a manager. He'll join Dusty Baker, Terry Francona, Joe Maddon, Bob Melvin, Ron Gardenhire, Joe Girardi, Bud Black and Don Mattingly as active managers with 600.UMP HURTThe game was delayed 17 minutes in the bottom of the first inning when plate umpire Chris Conroy took a foul off his right hand, breaking the ring finger. Crew chief Jeff Nelson moved behind the plate for the next two innings, and Conroy returned and worked third base with his finger bandaged.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Adalberto Mondesi was hit in the right arm by a pitch in the fourth but stayed in the game.Reds: Miley was reinstated from the 10-day injured list pregame and right-hander Joel Kuhnel was optioned.UP NEXTRoyals: After a day off, KC opens a series in Minneapolis. Jakob Junis (0-0) faces the Twins for the second time in a week. He allowed two solo homers in 4 2/3 innings last Friday. Junis is trying for his first win in five starts.Reds: Anthony DeSclafani (1-0) opens a four-game series against the Pirates. He's 0-4 in his last six starts against Pittsburgh, with the Reds losing all six games.

Royals hold off Reds 5-4 to split series

MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference today unveiled the Wildcats’ new 10-game football schedule for the 2020 season, which includes a newly scheduled non-conference matchup and all nine conference games.

K-State will now open the season on September 12 by hosting Arkansas State at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Wildcats are 2-0 all-time against the Red Wolves, while it will be the first meeting between the two schools in 40 years. K-State earned a 31-7 victory in Manhattan in 1980 and also defeated A-State, 37-6, in Manhattan in 1948.

The September 12 start date is the latest in the year that K-State will begin a season since 1992 (September 19 vs. Montana), while it is the first time in school history that K-State will play less than two non-conference games.

Following its first bye week of the season, Kansas State opens Big 12 play on September 26 when the Cats travel to Oklahoma. It will be the second-straight year the Wildcats open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma (at Oklahoma State in 2019), while it will be the first in Norman since a 24-19 victory over the sixth-ranked Sooners on September 22, 2012.

The Wildcats Big 12 home opener is slated for October 3 against Texas Tech before traveling to TCU on October 10. The second bye week of the season is on October 17 before K-State hosts Kansas on October 24 and travels to West Virginia – its original conference opener – on October 31.

The month of November opens with a visit from Oklahoma State on November 7 prior to the third bye of the schedule on November 14. From there, the Wildcats travel to Iowa State (November 21) and Baylor (November 28) before closing out the season on December 5 with a home contest against Texas. It will be the first home December game since defeating West Virginia, 24-23, in 2015.

The 2020 Big 12 Championship game will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 12.

Although the number of fans able to attend games this fall remains unknown, the department continues to work with local county, city and University officials. Season ticket holders will be contacted via email as soon as capacity and ticket details are finalized.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – K-State Athletics and the Big 12 Conference today unveiled the Wildcats’ new 10-game football schedule for the 2020 season, which includes a newly scheduled non-conference matchup and all nine conference games.K-State will now open the season on September 12 by hosting Arkansas State at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. The Wildcats are 2-0 all-time against the Red Wolves, while it will be the first meeting between the two schools in 40 years. K-State earned a 31-7 victory in Manhattan in 1980 and also defeated A-State, 37-6, in Manhattan in 1948.The September 12 start date is the latest in the year that K-State will begin a season since 1992 (September 19 vs. Montana), while it is the first time in school history that K-State will play less than two non-conference games.Following its first bye week of the season, Kansas State opens Big 12 play on September 26 when the Cats travel to Oklahoma. It will be the second-straight year the Wildcats open Big 12 play in the state of Oklahoma (at Oklahoma State in 2019), while it will be the first in Norman since a 24-19 victory over the sixth-ranked Sooners on September 22, 2012.The Wildcats Big 12 home opener is slated for October 3 against Texas Tech before traveling to TCU on October 10. The second bye week of the season is on October 17 before K-State hosts Kansas on October 24 and travels to West Virginia – its original conference opener – on October 31.The month of November opens with a visit from Oklahoma State on November 7 prior to the third bye of the schedule on November 14. From there, the Wildcats travel to Iowa State (November 21) and Baylor (November 28) before closing out the season on December 5 with a home contest against Texas. It will be the first home December game since defeating West Virginia, 24-23, in 2015.The 2020 Big 12 Championship game will be held at AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, December 12.Although the number of fans able to attend games this fall remains unknown, the department continues to work with local county, city and University officials. Season ticket holders will be contacted via email as soon as capacity and ticket details are finalized.September 12 Arkansas StateSeptember 26 at OklahomaOctober 3 Texas TechOctober 10 at TCUOctober 24 KansasOctober 31 at West VirginiaNovember 7 Oklahoma StateNovember 21 at Iowa StateNovember 28 at BaylorDecember 5 Texas--- K-State Athletics ---

K-State, Big 12 announced updated 2020 football schedule

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Kansas football’s revised Big 12 Conference schedule, which features four home games and five road trips, was released by the conference office on Wednesday. The Jayhawks will kick-off the 2020 conference schedule by travelling to Waco to face the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.

“We are excited to be able to move forward with the updated schedule and compete this fall,” head coach Les Miles said. “We will continue to prepare for our season cautiously, while also relying on the direction and oversight of Kansas Team Health medical professionals to provide our players with a game plan that promotes their health and safety.”

Under the adopted schedule, the Jayhawks will still host Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Texas and TCU at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, while making trips to Baylor, West Virginia, K-State, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.

Sept. 26 at Baylor Oct. 3 Oklahoma State Oct. 17 at West Virginia Oct. 24 at K-State Oct. 31 Iowa State Nov. 7 at Oklahoma Nov. 21 Texas Nov. 28 TCU Dec. 5 at Texas Tech

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- Kansas football’s revised Big 12 Conference schedule, which features four home games and five road trips, was released by the conference office on Wednesday. The Jayhawks will kick-off the 2020 conference schedule by travelling to Waco to face the Baylor Bears on Sept. 26.“We are excited to be able to move forward with the updated schedule and compete this fall,” head coach Les Miles said. “We will continue to prepare for our season cautiously, while also relying on the direction and oversight of Kansas Team Health medical professionals to provide our players with a game plan that promotes their health and safety.”Under the adopted schedule, the Jayhawks will still host Oklahoma State, Iowa State, Texas and TCU at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, while making trips to Baylor, West Virginia, K-State, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.Sept. 26 at Baylor Oct. 3 Oklahoma State Oct. 17 at West Virginia Oct. 24 at K-State Oct. 31 Iowa State Nov. 7 at Oklahoma Nov. 21 Texas Nov. 28 TCU Dec. 5 at Texas Tech--- KU Athletics ---

Kansas releases revised 2020 football schedule

CINCINNATI -- Joey Votto doubled home the winning run in the 10th inning Tuesday night, and the Cincinnati Reds blew another late lead before rallying for a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

The Royals tied it 5-5 in the eighth on Ryan McBroom's pinch-hit, two-run homer off Amir Garrett, but they couldn't keep their four-game winning streak going.

Votto saved the Reds from another rough ending.

"Joey came through as he has so many times in his career," manager David Bell said. "That was a great at-bat for us as a team."

With a designated runner on second base in the 10th, Josh Staumont (0-1) walked Nick Castellanos and Votto doubled off the wall in center, just over the glove of Brett Phillips.

"I imagine if you ask Brett he'll say that's a ball he'll catch nine times out of 10," Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "The ball was hit pretty good though."

Lucas Sims (1-0) gave up a walk in the 10th with a designated runner on second base but escaped the threat.

Matt Davidson and Jesse Winker hit consecutive homers off left-hander Kris Bubic in his first road start as Cincinnati pulled ahead 5-3, but Cincinnati's leaky bullpen let another lead slip away.

Associated PressCINCINNATI -- Joey Votto doubled home the winning run in the 10th inning Tuesday night, and the Cincinnati Reds blew another late lead before rallying for a 6-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals.The Royals tied it 5-5 in the eighth on Ryan McBroom's pinch-hit, two-run homer off Amir Garrett, but they couldn't keep their four-game winning streak going.Votto saved the Reds from another rough ending."Joey came through as he has so many times in his career," manager David Bell said. "That was a great at-bat for us as a team."With a designated runner on second base in the 10th, Josh Staumont (0-1) walked Nick Castellanos and Votto doubled off the wall in center, just over the glove of Brett Phillips."I imagine if you ask Brett he'll say that's a ball he'll catch nine times out of 10," Royals manager Mike Matheny said. "The ball was hit pretty good though."Lucas Sims (1-0) gave up a walk in the 10th with a designated runner on second base but escaped the threat.Matt Davidson and Jesse Winker hit consecutive homers off left-hander Kris Bubic in his first road start as Cincinnati pulled ahead 5-3, but Cincinnati's leaky bullpen let another lead slip away.Luis Castillo limited the Royals' resurgent offense to three runs -- one earned -- in six innings. The Royals loaded the bases three times in all but managed only one run out of all those chances.Bubic failed again to get a win in his third big league start. The 40th overall pick in the 2018 draft jumped from Single-A to the majors.Kyle Farmer hit a two-run double in the second. Davidson had a two-run shot in the third, and Winker followed with a solo shot, the Reds' first back-to-back homers of the season. Bubic gave up five runs and seven hits in five innings."Honestly I thought I pitched better than what the linescore would look like," Bubic said.The Royals repeatedly wasted bases-loaded chances and failed to take full advantage of three Reds errors."It's just a game that should have been ours," Matheny said.Kansas City left the bases loaded in the second when Alex Gordon lined out. The Royals managed only one run out of a bases-loaded chance in the third, on Ryan O'Hearn's single.The Royals loaded the bases again with one out in the seventh, but Farmer -- playing shortstop -- made a diving stop on O'Hearn's grounder up the middle and turned a double play to protect the 5-3 lead that slipped away two innings later.STREAKINGSalvador Perez extended his hitting streak to nine games. Nicky Lopez and Maikel Franco extended theirs to seven games each.LOT OF KsThe Reds fanned 11, giving them 196 through the first 17 games, a major league record. The 2018 Astros held the previous mark of 191.LOPSIDED HISTORYThe Royals are 11-4 against the Reds since 2009, including 7-4 all-time at Great American Ball Park.NEW ROYALSRight-handed pitcher Carlos Hernandez and lefty Asa Lacy were added to the 60-man roster. Hernandez pitched at three levels of the minors last year. Lacy, 21, was the fourth overall selection in this year's first-year player draft from Texas A&amp;M.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Outfielder Franchy Cordero had surgery to repair a broken bone in his right wrist. He went on the injured list Sunday. Cordero was acquired from the Padres on July 16 and played in 11 games.Reds: Reliever Pedro Strop went on the 10-day injured list with a groin injury. Infielder Josh VanMeter was recalled.UP NEXTRoyals: Brad Keller (1-0) makes his first road start of the season and first career start against the Reds.Reds: Left-hander Wade Miley is expected to come off the injured list and make his second start. He suffered a groin injury in his Reds debut against the Cubs on July 27.