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 ---

Kansas State's Thompson named to Manning Award watch list

DETROIT -- JaCoby Jones hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh inning, and Detroit's bullpen came through again in a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.

A night after pitching six scoreless innings in a win over the Royals, the Tigers' relievers held Kansas City without a baserunner for four. Detroit rallied from a 4-0 deficit thanks in large part to Jones, who doubled twice before connecting off Ian Kennedy (0-1) for his third homer of the year.

"Obviously, it felt great," Jones said. "We were battling. Our pitching staff kept us in the game. They were grinding, getting outs."

Jonathan Schoop also went deep for the Tigers. Maikel Franco hit two doubles and a single for Kansas City, and Whit Merrifield had two hits and scored twice.

Bryan Garcia (1-0) earned his first big league win, one of four Detroit relievers who pitched in the game. Joe Jimenez worked the ninth for his fourth save.

"Bryan was fantastic tonight," manager Ron Gardenhire said. "Came in and the ball was really jumping out of his hand."

Danny Duffy allowed only three hits in five innings for the Royals, but one of them was Schoop's two-run shot in the fifth, which barely made it past a leaping Merrifield at the wall in right and tied the game at 4. Duffy struck out eight with one walk.

"I felt confident with what I was doing out there, it just didn't go our way and it's unacceptable," Duffy said. "To have that kind of stuff tonight, got to go deeper in the game, man. Brutal. Got to go deeper in the game."

Merrifield is now 22 for 42 against Detroit's Matthew Boyd after going 2 for 3 against him Wednesday. He led off the game with a double and scored on Franco's two-base hit. Merrifield also singled to start the third and scored on a single by Franco. Ryan McBroom's RBI single made it 4-0 in the third.

Detroit chipped away with sacrifice flies by Schoop in the third and Niko Goodrum in the fifth. Then Schoop went deep to tie it.

The Tigers have homered in every game so far this season after finishing last in the AL in that category in 2019.

Boyd allowed four runs and nine hits in five innings for Detroit. He struck out six.

Jones was hit up high by a pitch in Tuesday's game. He was able to keep playing but still wasn't pleased a day later.

"You get pitched up and in all the time, and these guys are the ones that pitched up and in on me last year and broke my wrist," Jones said. "To get hit in the face yesterday just topped it off, but I mean, I'm over it."

Adalberto Mondesi was 2 for 21 on the season coming into the game -- and made a baserunning blunder in the ninth inning Tuesday night. The Royals dropped him from third to sixth in the batting order Wednesday, and he tripled in the second and scored on Bubba Starling's sacrifice fly.

Tigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal, who went on the 10-day injured list Monday, has forearm tendinitis.

Royals rookie Brady Singer (0-0) makes his second career start Thursday night against Detroit's Ivan Nova (0-0).

Associated PressDETROIT -- JaCoby Jones hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh inning, and Detroit's bullpen came through again in a 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night.A night after pitching six scoreless innings in a win over the Royals, the Tigers' relievers held Kansas City without a baserunner for four. Detroit rallied from a 4-0 deficit thanks in large part to Jones, who doubled twice before connecting off Ian Kennedy (0-1) for his third homer of the year."Obviously, it felt great," Jones said. "We were battling. Our pitching staff kept us in the game. They were grinding, getting outs."Jonathan Schoop also went deep for the Tigers. Maikel Franco hit two doubles and a single for Kansas City, and Whit Merrifield had two hits and scored twice.Bryan Garcia (1-0) earned his first big league win, one of four Detroit relievers who pitched in the game. Joe Jimenez worked the ninth for his fourth save."Bryan was fantastic tonight," manager Ron Gardenhire said. "Came in and the ball was really jumping out of his hand."Danny Duffy allowed only three hits in five innings for the Royals, but one of them was Schoop's two-run shot in the fifth, which barely made it past a leaping Merrifield at the wall in right and tied the game at 4. Duffy struck out eight with one walk."I felt confident with what I was doing out there, it just didn't go our way and it's unacceptable," Duffy said. "To have that kind of stuff tonight, got to go deeper in the game, man. Brutal. Got to go deeper in the game."Merrifield is now 22 for 42 against Detroit's Matthew Boyd after going 2 for 3 against him Wednesday. He led off the game with a double and scored on Franco's two-base hit. Merrifield also singled to start the third and scored on a single by Franco. Ryan McBroom's RBI single made it 4-0 in the third.Detroit chipped away with sacrifice flies by Schoop in the third and Niko Goodrum in the fifth. Then Schoop went deep to tie it.The Tigers have homered in every game so far this season after finishing last in the AL in that category in 2019.Boyd allowed four runs and nine hits in five innings for Detroit. He struck out six.Jones was hit up high by a pitch in Tuesday's game. He was able to keep playing but still wasn't pleased a day later."You get pitched up and in all the time, and these guys are the ones that pitched up and in on me last year and broke my wrist," Jones said. "To get hit in the face yesterday just topped it off, but I mean, I'm over it."LINEUP CHANGEAdalberto Mondesi was 2 for 21 on the season coming into the game -- and made a baserunning blunder in the ninth inning Tuesday night. The Royals dropped him from third to sixth in the batting order Wednesday, and he tripled in the second and scored on Bubba Starling's sacrifice fly.TRAINER'S ROOMTigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal, who went on the 10-day injured list Monday, has forearm tendinitis.UP NEXTRoyals rookie Brady Singer (0-0) makes his second career start Thursday night against Detroit's Ivan Nova (0-0).

Royals blow another early lead, lose to Tigers 5-4

MINNEAPOLIS -- Coming off major surgery and currently the oldest pitcher in the major leagues, Rich Hill sure looked smooth and spry on the mound in his debut for Minnesota.

"It feels like it's 18 again," said Hill, who pitched five scoreless innings as the Twins beat the St. Louis Cardinals 3-0 on Wednesday night.

Eddie Rosario homered, Nelson Cruz hit an RBI double, and Alex Avila, another Minnesota newcomer, added an RBI single. Taylor Rogers pitched a perfect ninth for his first save, and the Twins finished a two-game sweep to improve to 4-1.

"I've been on a lot of good teams," said Hill, who has 12 postseason starts, including two World Series appearances with the Los Angeles Dodgers. "I don't take it lightly: This is a very good team."

The 40-year-old Hill needed only 68 pitches to pick up his first victory for the team that signed him this winter with the assumption he'd be ready around midsummer after his recovery from elbow surgery. When the coronavirus pandemic put baseball on pause for four months, Hill was available for the rotation right away.

The left-hander even had his start pushed back by four days out of caution for some inflammation in his shoulder, and he was in fine form, allowing two singles and a walk.

With Kenta Maeda, Homer Bailey and now Hill, the Twins have won three straight games behind starting pitchers in their first appearance with the team.

"Rich has just a really interesting way of going about pitching. His stuff is pretty incredible. He's got the fastball that he can ride and do different things with it. Then he's got that curveball that he uses basically whenever he wants and however he wants. It's really fun to watch him do it," said Twins manager Rocco Baldelli, who at 38 is younger than Hill and Cruz.

The Cardinals, after winning their first two games against Pittsburgh, have scored four runs on 15 hits over a three-game losing streak.

"There is some frustration when you come in and don't put together as many consistent at-bats as you'd like, and the ones you do put together, you don't have a lot to show for it," manager Mike Shildt said.

Daniel Ponce de Leon (0-1) struck out eight over 3 2/3 innings. He gave up two hits, three walks and all three runs as a fill-in for Miles Mikolas, who was declared out for the season for forearm surgery.

"As a starting pitcher, you're meant to go deep into games so if I were to grade myself, I wouldn't give myself a good grade," Ponce de Leon said.

The Twins, wearing the all-baby blue uniforms the franchise sported for road games in the 1980s, improved their run differential to plus-16. The defending American League Central division champions lead the major leagues with 7.2 runs per game.

Not until Hill joined Cruz this season had the Twins included two 40-year-old players on their opening day roster, and the last time they had such a duo on the team at the same time was 2004 with catcher Pat Borders and pitcher Terry Mulholland. Atlanta, with pitchers Bartolo Colon and R.A. Dickey in 2017, was the last major league team with a 40-plus pair.

"That's one of the things that inspires us younger players on this team, seeing two players like them," Rosario said.

Cruz, the second-oldest active hitter in the major leagues behind Albert Pujols, went 7 for 13 with seven runs, two doubles, three homers and 10 RBI in the opening series at Chicago. He leads the majors with 11 RBI.

Four of the seven oldest players in baseball were at Target Field for this series, with Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright and catcher Yadier Molina, both 38, on the list at fifth and a tie for sixth. Pujols, the three-time National League MVP for the Cardinals who's now with the Los Angeles Angels, is the oldest in the game. Pitcher Fernando Rodney, 43, would bump everyone down a spot if he signs with a club this summer.

Cardinals: Rookie Rangel Ravelo, who had 39 at-bats last season, was the DH for his season debut. Matt Carpenter pinch hit for Ravelo in the eighth.

Twins: CF Byron Buxton was held out as planned as a precaution following his season debut on Tuesday, two weeks after suffering a sprained left foot. ... 1B Miguel Sano, who is 1 for 14 with six strikeouts, was pulled after the sixth inning for rest.

Cardinals: After an off day Thursday, the team's second in four days, RHP Jack Flaherty takes the mound on Friday night to begin a three-game series in Milwaukee.

Twins: RHP Jose Berrios will start on Thursday night against Cleveland to begin a four-game series.

Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS -- Coming off major surgery and currently the oldest pitcher in the major leagues, Rich Hill sure looked smooth and spry on the mound in his debut for Minnesota.His elbow?"It feels like it's 18 again," said Hill, who pitched five scoreless innings as the Twins beat the St. Louis Cardinals 3-0 on Wednesday night.Eddie Rosario homered, Nelson Cruz hit an RBI double, and Alex Avila, another Minnesota newcomer, added an RBI single. Taylor Rogers pitched a perfect ninth for his first save, and the Twins finished a two-game sweep to improve to 4-1."I've been on a lot of good teams," said Hill, who has 12 postseason starts, including two World Series appearances with the Los Angeles Dodgers. "I don't take it lightly: This is a very good team."The 40-year-old Hill needed only 68 pitches to pick up his first victory for the team that signed him this winter with the assumption he'd be ready around midsummer after his recovery from elbow surgery. When the coronavirus pandemic put baseball on pause for four months, Hill was available for the rotation right away.The left-hander even had his start pushed back by four days out of caution for some inflammation in his shoulder, and he was in fine form, allowing two singles and a walk.With Kenta Maeda, Homer Bailey and now Hill, the Twins have won three straight games behind starting pitchers in their first appearance with the team."Rich has just a really interesting way of going about pitching. His stuff is pretty incredible. He's got the fastball that he can ride and do different things with it. Then he's got that curveball that he uses basically whenever he wants and however he wants. It's really fun to watch him do it," said Twins manager Rocco Baldelli, who at 38 is younger than Hill and Cruz.The Cardinals, after winning their first two games against Pittsburgh, have scored four runs on 15 hits over a three-game losing streak."There is some frustration when you come in and don't put together as many consistent at-bats as you'd like, and the ones you do put together, you don't have a lot to show for it," manager Mike Shildt said.Daniel Ponce de Leon (0-1) struck out eight over 3 2/3 innings. He gave up two hits, three walks and all three runs as a fill-in for Miles Mikolas, who was declared out for the season for forearm surgery."As a starting pitcher, you're meant to go deep into games so if I were to grade myself, I wouldn't give myself a good grade," Ponce de Leon said.The Twins, wearing the all-baby blue uniforms the franchise sported for road games in the 1980s, improved their run differential to plus-16. The defending American League Central division champions lead the major leagues with 7.2 runs per game.NOT OVER THE HILLNot until Hill joined Cruz this season had the Twins included two 40-year-old players on their opening day roster, and the last time they had such a duo on the team at the same time was 2004 with catcher Pat Borders and pitcher Terry Mulholland. Atlanta, with pitchers Bartolo Colon and R.A. Dickey in 2017, was the last major league team with a 40-plus pair."That's one of the things that inspires us younger players on this team, seeing two players like them," Rosario said.Cruz, the second-oldest active hitter in the major leagues behind Albert Pujols, went 7 for 13 with seven runs, two doubles, three homers and 10 RBI in the opening series at Chicago. He leads the majors with 11 RBI.HEALTHY, WEALTHY AND WISEFour of the seven oldest players in baseball were at Target Field for this series, with Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright and catcher Yadier Molina, both 38, on the list at fifth and a tie for sixth. Pujols, the three-time National League MVP for the Cardinals who's now with the Los Angeles Angels, is the oldest in the game. Pitcher Fernando Rodney, 43, would bump everyone down a spot if he signs with a club this summer.TRAINER'S ROOMCardinals: Rookie Rangel Ravelo, who had 39 at-bats last season, was the DH for his season debut. Matt Carpenter pinch hit for Ravelo in the eighth.Twins: CF Byron Buxton was held out as planned as a precaution following his season debut on Tuesday, two weeks after suffering a sprained left foot. ... 1B Miguel Sano, who is 1 for 14 with six strikeouts, was pulled after the sixth inning for rest.UP NEXTCardinals: After an off day Thursday, the team's second in four days, RHP Jack Flaherty takes the mound on Friday night to begin a three-game series in Milwaukee.Twins: RHP Jose Berrios will start on Thursday night against Cleveland to begin a four-game series.

Cardinals blanked by Minnesota 3-0

Kansas City Chiefs running back Damien Williams has opted out of the 2020 season, general manager Brett Veach said Wednesday.

Williams led the Chiefs in rushing last season with 498 yards and five touchdowns. He scored two touchdowns in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

The Chiefs used their first-round draft pick in 2020 on running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire out of LSU, and he was expected to be a factor in the Chiefs' offense as a rookie.

Kansas City Chiefs running back Damien Williams has opted out of the 2020 season, general manager Brett Veach said Wednesday.Williams led the Chiefs in rushing last season with 498 yards and five touchdowns. He scored two touchdowns in Kansas City's Super Bowl victory over the San Francisco 49ers.The Chiefs used their first-round draft pick in 2020 on running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire out of LSU, and he was expected to be a factor in the Chiefs' offense as a rookie.

Chiefs RB Damien Williams opts out of playing in 2020

Benton High School girls' basketball coach Kerstyn Bolton has stepped down after two seasons after a video surfaced earlier this week of a verbal exchange involving Bolton and a Cardinal player.  The video was captured by the player during a practice last winter.

Bolton released a statement on Wednesday, "As I reflect on the choices I made, I am thankful each day is a fresh start," Bolton said. "I have the opportunity to learn daily from interactions, circumstances, and others. I will use this situation as a learning experience. I am passionate about coaching and educating our students. St. Joseph has been my home, my community, and my family. I know as I walk this path my community will help me to grow and be the best coach and educator I can be."

Bolton, a Benton graduate, went 34-20 in her two seasons as the head coach of the Cardinals.  She took over for Brett Goodwin, who stepped down in 2018 after 17 years to become the Athletic Director at Benton.

Benton High School girls' basketball coach Kerstyn Bolton has stepped down after two seasons after a video surfaced earlier this week of a verbal exchange involving Bolton and a Cardinal player. The video was captured by the player during a practice last winter.Bolton released a statement on Wednesday, "As I reflect on the choices I made, I am thankful each day is a fresh start," Bolton said. "I have the opportunity to learn daily from interactions, circumstances, and others. I will use this situation as a learning experience. I am passionate about coaching and educating our students. St. Joseph has been my home, my community, and my family. I know as I walk this path my community will help me to grow and be the best coach and educator I can be."Bolton, a Benton graduate, went 34-20 in her two seasons as the head coach of the Cardinals. She took over for Brett Goodwin, who stepped down in 2018 after 17 years to become the Athletic Director at Benton.

Bolton steps down as girls' basketball coach at Benton

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (July 29, 2020) - The MIAA laid out a guiding document for the start of fall activities. The document clarifies starting dates and activities for the fall sports seasons, and all other sports as they return to campus for the fall semester.

All voluntary activities as described by the NCAA Division II Administrative Committee during summer 2020 are permitted up until the start of each institution’s first day of classes. 

Starting from a member institution’s first day of classes until August 24, football teams can conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. From August 25 through August 29, teams will be permitted to conduct their acclimatization period as specified in NCAA Bylaw 17.10.2.3. Teams would then be able to start full practice sessions on August 31. 

Beginning on a member institution’s first day of classes until Sunday, August 30, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s soccer, and volleyball teams will be allowed to conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. Teams can begin full practice sessions on Monday, August 31.

For men’s and women’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis, all normal non-championship segment activities are allowed and will be excluded from the MIAA’s adjusted start dates. 

All MIAA sports that were not listed above can have no physical activity, which includes weight room and/or conditioning sessions until August 31. Team meetings and any physicals with medical officials are permitted, and each student-athlete is restricted to no more than eight hours of team activity per week during that time. 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (July 29, 2020) - The MIAA laid out a guiding document for the start of fall activities. The document clarifies starting dates and activities for the fall sports seasons, and all other sports as they return to campus for the fall semester.All voluntary activities as described by the NCAA Division II Administrative Committee during summer 2020 are permitted up until the start of each institution’s first day of classes. Starting from a member institution’s first day of classes until August 24, football teams can conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. From August 25 through August 29, teams will be permitted to conduct their acclimatization period as specified in NCAA Bylaw 17.10.2.3. Teams would then be able to start full practice sessions on August 31. Beginning on a member institution’s first day of classes until Sunday, August 30, men’s and women’s cross country, women’s soccer, and volleyball teams will be allowed to conduct team/film meetings, strength and conditioning activities with no on-field/court activities with equipment or individual skill instruction, and each student-athlete is restricted to 15 hours per week with one day off per week. Teams can begin full practice sessions on Monday, August 31.For men’s and women’s golf and men’s and women’s tennis, all normal non-championship segment activities are allowed and will be excluded from the MIAA’s adjusted start dates. All MIAA sports that were not listed above can have no physical activity, which includes weight room and/or conditioning sessions until August 31. Team meetings and any physicals with medical officials are permitted, and each student-athlete is restricted to no more than eight hours of team activity per week during that time. --- MIAA Press Release ---

MIAA lays out guiding document for starting fall sports activities

DETROIT -- Jonathan Schoop and Christin Stewart each hit a two-run homer in the third inning to lift the Detroit Tigers to a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

Whit Merrifield launched a three-run shot in the top of the third for Kansas City, but the Tigers answered quickly and held on from there. Tyler Alexander (1-0) and four other relievers kept the Royals scoreless for the final six innings, with Joe Jimenez pitching the ninth for his third save.

There were a pair of blunders in the ninth on the same play when Detroit first baseman C.J. Cron dropped a popup hit by Adalberto Mondesi, but Mondesi rounded first too far and was thrown out before he could get back to the bag.

Rony Garcia worked the first three innings for Detroit in his major league debut. The 22-year-old right-hander looked sharp until the third. That's when Brett Phillips hit a grounder that bounced off Cron for an error -- and after Garcia retrieved the ball, his throw to first sailed past for another error.

That play left runners on second and third with one out, and Merrifield followed with a drive to left that made it 3-0. Garcia recovered to strike out his final two hitters.

"It was a very happy experience. It's something that I've been dreaming since I was a kid," Garcia said through a translator. "I felt very happy being on the mound and saying, finally, 'I made it. I'm a major leaguer."

Kansas City starter Kyle Zimmer pitched two scoreless innings, then hit JaCoby Jones with a pitch to start the Detroit third. Tyler Zuber (0-1) relieved and allowed the homers to Schoop and Stewart.

Mondesi went 0 for 4 with two strikeouts and the baserunning mistake. Royals manager Mike Matheny said he's pressing.

"We're just going to continue to talk to him, (let) him breathe a little bit," Matheny said. "He's such a pure and natural player, everything he does. I know there are things right now he's not happy with."

Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire wouldn't say much about the progress of top pitching prospect Casey Mize, who was left off the active roster for the start of the season. Mize was the top pick in the 2018 amateur draft, and Detroit fans are eagerly anticipating his big league debut -- whenever it happens.

"He's fine. He's doing great," Gardenhire said when asked about Mize before Tuesday's game. "Not allowed to talk about him. I get in trouble every time I do."

Royals: LHP Foster Griffin (strained left forearm) was put on the injured list after getting the win in his big league debut Monday night. LHP Mike Montgomery (strained lat) went on the IL as well. He was the starter Monday. Kansas City recalled OF Nick Heath and RHP Jake Newberry.

Tigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal will likely stop throwing for a few days after missing a scheduled start Tuesday with a forearm strain. "I don't think there was a tear or anything like that. It's just a strain," Gardenhire said.

Detroit's Matthew Boyd (0-1) takes on Kansas City's Danny Duffy (0-1) in a matchup of left-handers Wednesday night.

Associated PressDETROIT -- Jonathan Schoop and Christin Stewart each hit a two-run homer in the third inning to lift the Detroit Tigers to a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.Whit Merrifield launched a three-run shot in the top of the third for Kansas City, but the Tigers answered quickly and held on from there. Tyler Alexander (1-0) and four other relievers kept the Royals scoreless for the final six innings, with Joe Jimenez pitching the ninth for his third save.There were a pair of blunders in the ninth on the same play when Detroit first baseman C.J. Cron dropped a popup hit by Adalberto Mondesi, but Mondesi rounded first too far and was thrown out before he could get back to the bag.Rony Garcia worked the first three innings for Detroit in his major league debut. The 22-year-old right-hander looked sharp until the third. That's when Brett Phillips hit a grounder that bounced off Cron for an error -- and after Garcia retrieved the ball, his throw to first sailed past for another error.That play left runners on second and third with one out, and Merrifield followed with a drive to left that made it 3-0. Garcia recovered to strike out his final two hitters."It was a very happy experience. It's something that I've been dreaming since I was a kid," Garcia said through a translator. "I felt very happy being on the mound and saying, finally, 'I made it. I'm a major leaguer."Kansas City starter Kyle Zimmer pitched two scoreless innings, then hit JaCoby Jones with a pitch to start the Detroit third. Tyler Zuber (0-1) relieved and allowed the homers to Schoop and Stewart.Mondesi went 0 for 4 with two strikeouts and the baserunning mistake. Royals manager Mike Matheny said he's pressing."We're just going to continue to talk to him, (let) him breathe a little bit," Matheny said. "He's such a pure and natural player, everything he does. I know there are things right now he's not happy with."TAKING THE FIFTHTigers manager Ron Gardenhire wouldn't say much about the progress of top pitching prospect Casey Mize, who was left off the active roster for the start of the season. Mize was the top pick in the 2018 amateur draft, and Detroit fans are eagerly anticipating his big league debut -- whenever it happens."He's fine. He's doing great," Gardenhire said when asked about Mize before Tuesday's game. "Not allowed to talk about him. I get in trouble every time I do."TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: LHP Foster Griffin (strained left forearm) was put on the injured list after getting the win in his big league debut Monday night. LHP Mike Montgomery (strained lat) went on the IL as well. He was the starter Monday. Kansas City recalled OF Nick Heath and RHP Jake Newberry.Tigers: Gardenhire said RHP Dario Agrazal will likely stop throwing for a few days after missing a scheduled start Tuesday with a forearm strain. "I don't think there was a tear or anything like that. It's just a strain," Gardenhire said.UP NEXTDetroit's Matthew Boyd (0-1) takes on Kansas City's Danny Duffy (0-1) in a matchup of left-handers Wednesday night.

Royals let 3-run lead slip away in 4-3 loss at Detroit

MINNEAPOLIS -- Josh Donaldson homered and drove in two runs in his Target Field debut with Minnesota, Jorge Polanco hit a two-run shot and the Twins beat the St. Louis Cardinals 6-3 in their home opener Tuesday night.

Homer Bailey (1-0) pitched five innings for the victory in his first start for the Twins, allowing a two-run homer to Tyler O'Neill in the fifth.

Cardinals starter Carlos Martinez (0-1) was pulled after 3 2/3 innings, when the homer by Donaldson ended his night. Polanco's drive capped a five-run second for the Twins, with Max Kepler delivering an RBI single and Donaldson contributing a sacrifice fly.

The stumble by Martinez was ill-timed, considering the Cardinals placed Miles Mikolas on the injured list before the game with a tendon injury in his forearm that needs surgery and will knock him out of the rotation for the entire season.

Tommy Edman took Trevor May deep in the eighth for the Cardinals, despite 2017 Gold Glove winner Byron Buxton's well-timed jump from the back of the warning track in center field. The ball simply bounced off the bottom of his mitt and onto the grass berm beyond the wall, prompting an incredulous expression from Buxton as he dropped to his knees in disgust over missing the catch.

Sergio Romo pitched a hitless ninth for a stress-free save, preserving a third victory in four games for the defending AL Central champion Twins.

The Twins started their 60th season in Minnesota in most unusual fashion, under the thumb of the virus that forced Major League Baseball to play a 60-game season without fans. Recorded crowd noise served as part of the soundtrack, and the club's in-game presentation crew still marked the home team's home runs with the celebratory siren that popped up last year while the "Bomba Squad" powered its way to a record 307 homers.

Donaldson was the heralded addition to this already potent lineup, signing a four-year, $92 million contract during the winter.

Cardinals: DH Matt Carpenter, who fouled a pitch off his left knee Sunday, was back in the lineup and "ready to rock and roll," manager Mike Shildt said. ... RHP Giovanny Gallegos (undisclosed illness) was added to the active roster and got two outs in sixth.

Twins: Buxton made his season debut, two weeks after spraining his left foot during an intrasquad scrimmage. Minnesota manager Rocco Baldelli said the team will carefully watch the oft-injured Buxton, whose 2019 season ended early because of a torn labrum in his left shoulder. "We will probably treat this first week a little bit differently than you normally would in the middle of a long season," Baldelli said. "We'll evaluate him continuously."

Associated PressMINNEAPOLIS -- Josh Donaldson homered and drove in two runs in his Target Field debut with Minnesota, Jorge Polanco hit a two-run shot and the Twins beat the St. Louis Cardinals 6-3 in their home opener Tuesday night.Homer Bailey (1-0) pitched five innings for the victory in his first start for the Twins, allowing a two-run homer to Tyler O'Neill in the fifth.Cardinals starter Carlos Martinez (0-1) was pulled after 3 2/3 innings, when the homer by Donaldson ended his night. Polanco's drive capped a five-run second for the Twins, with Max Kepler delivering an RBI single and Donaldson contributing a sacrifice fly.The stumble by Martinez was ill-timed, considering the Cardinals placed Miles Mikolas on the injured list before the game with a tendon injury in his forearm that needs surgery and will knock him out of the rotation for the entire season.Tommy Edman took Trevor May deep in the eighth for the Cardinals, despite 2017 Gold Glove winner Byron Buxton's well-timed jump from the back of the warning track in center field. The ball simply bounced off the bottom of his mitt and onto the grass berm beyond the wall, prompting an incredulous expression from Buxton as he dropped to his knees in disgust over missing the catch.Sergio Romo pitched a hitless ninth for a stress-free save, preserving a third victory in four games for the defending AL Central champion Twins.The Twins started their 60th season in Minnesota in most unusual fashion, under the thumb of the virus that forced Major League Baseball to play a 60-game season without fans. Recorded crowd noise served as part of the soundtrack, and the club's in-game presentation crew still marked the home team's home runs with the celebratory siren that popped up last year while the "Bomba Squad" powered its way to a record 307 homers.Donaldson was the heralded addition to this already potent lineup, signing a four-year, $92 million contract during the winter.TRAINER'S ROOMCardinals: DH Matt Carpenter, who fouled a pitch off his left knee Sunday, was back in the lineup and "ready to rock and roll," manager Mike Shildt said. ... RHP Giovanny Gallegos (undisclosed illness) was added to the active roster and got two outs in sixth.Twins: Buxton made his season debut, two weeks after spraining his left foot during an intrasquad scrimmage. Minnesota manager Rocco Baldelli said the team will carefully watch the oft-injured Buxton, whose 2019 season ended early because of a torn labrum in his left shoulder. "We will probably treat this first week a little bit differently than you normally would in the middle of a long season," Baldelli said. "We'll evaluate him continuously."UP NEXTCardinals: RHP Daniel Ponce de Leon will take the mound Wednesday night in place of Mikolas. Ponce de Leon has a 3.29 ERA over 82 career innings, including 12 starts.Twins: LHP Rich Hill makes his first start with the team in the finale of the two-game series. Hill, who used the pandemic pause to recover from offseason elbow surgery, had his turn pushed back three days for extra rest. The 40-year-old spent the last four seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers.