Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo returned from the 15 day injured list, but his return was spoiled as Kansas City fell to the Detroit Tigers in a crucial AL Central clash, losing 7-5 on Friday night at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp;

Detroit took the lead right away in the game, as Riley Green hit a two run homer in the first inning, driving in Colt Keith, for the quick two run lead.&nbsp; Kansas City cut the lead in half in the bottom half of the inning with a home run of their own, Bobby Witt Jr hitting a solo shot into left center field, but the Tigers extended the lead in the second inning on another two run homer, this time from&nbsp;Dillon Dingler scoring Wenceel Pérez.

The Royals continued to battle back, again cutting the lead to one run in the bottom of the third inning as Drew Waters singled home Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez with the bases loaded, but John Rave and Michael Massey both struck out swinging to end the inning, leaving Maikel Garcia stranded at third base.&nbsp;

Spencer Torkelson singled home another run in the top of the fifth inning for Detroit, scoring Kerry Carpenter, but again the Royals scored keeping within striking distance, a sacrifice fly by Mark Canha in the bottom of the seventh inning bringing home Garcia.&nbsp; Again though, Massey struck out to end the inning and the threat from Kansas City, giving the Tigers the opportunity to put the game away in the eighth, where they scored two more runs.&nbsp;

Torkelson hit his 14th home run of the season for the first run of the inning, which was followed by a double by Perez.&nbsp; Perez scored on a single by Dingler for the final run for Detroit.&nbsp; Waters did single home Garcia in the ninth inning with two outs, but Canha grounded out to end the game.&nbsp;

Lugo fell to 3-5 with the loss, pitching 3 1/3 innings and giving up four runs on five hits, striking out three and walking two in his return. Garcia led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored and one walk in the loss.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Just when the Royals got a crucial piece to their rotation back with&nbsp; Lugo coming off the injured list on , Kansas City took another hit in its bullpen with Lucas Erceg placed on the 15-day IL with a low back strain, retroactive to May 27.

Erceg hadn’t pitched since Saturday in Minnesota, but there were two reasons for that. First, he got the illness that was going around the clubhouse last weekend, with a fever and general fatigue. Because he wasn’t feeling well, he missed at least one workout and wanted to get back in the weight room on Tuesday.&nbsp; That’s when Erceg “tweaked” his back while lifting, he said.

Kansas City and Detroit continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (3-4, 3.21 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against last years Cy Young award winner Tarik Skubal (5-2, 2.49 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 2:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKERoyals starting pitcher Seth Lugo returned from the 15 day injured list, but his return was spoiled as Kansas City fell to the Detroit Tigers in a crucial AL Central clash, losing 7-5 on Friday night at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp;Detroit took the lead right away in the game, as Riley Green hit a two run homer in the first inning, driving in Colt Keith, for the quick two run lead.&nbsp; Kansas City cut the lead in half in the bottom half of the inning with a home run of their own, Bobby Witt Jr hitting a solo shot into left center field, but the Tigers extended the lead in the second inning on another two run homer, this time from&nbsp;Dillon Dingler scoring Wenceel Pérez.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bobby Baseball’s blasting off. 🚀 <a href="https://t.co/T78G6K6GKD">pic.twitter.com/T78G6K6GKD</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1928608612957446281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Royals continued to battle back, again cutting the lead to one run in the bottom of the third inning as Drew Waters singled home Vinnie Pasquantino and Salvador Perez with the bases loaded, but John Rave and Michael Massey both struck out swinging to end the inning, leaving Maikel Garcia stranded at third base.&nbsp;Spencer Torkelson singled home another run in the top of the fifth inning for Detroit, scoring Kerry Carpenter, but again the Royals scored keeping within striking distance, a sacrifice fly by Mark Canha in the bottom of the seventh inning bringing home Garcia.&nbsp; Again though, Massey struck out to end the inning and the threat from Kansas City, giving the Tigers the opportunity to put the game away in the eighth, where they scored two more runs.&nbsp;Torkelson hit his 14th home run of the season for the first run of the inning, which was followed by a double by Perez.&nbsp; Perez scored on a single by Dingler for the final run for Detroit.&nbsp; Waters did single home Garcia in the ninth inning with two outs, but Canha grounded out to end the game.&nbsp;Lugo fell to 3-5 with the loss, pitching 3 1/3 innings and giving up four runs on five hits, striking out three and walking two in his return. Garcia led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored and one walk in the loss.&nbsp;&nbsp; Just when the Royals got a crucial piece to their rotation back with&nbsp; Lugo coming off the injured list on , Kansas City took another hit in its bullpen with Lucas Erceg placed on the 15-day IL with a low back strain, retroactive to May 27.Erceg hadn’t pitched since Saturday in Minnesota, but there were two reasons for that. First, he got the illness that was going around the clubhouse last weekend, with a fever and general fatigue. Because he wasn’t feeling well, he missed at least one workout and wanted to get back in the weight room on Tuesday.&nbsp; That’s when Erceg “tweaked” his back while lifting, he said.Kansas City and Detroit continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (3-4, 3.21 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against last years Cy Young award winner Tarik Skubal (5-2, 2.49 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 2:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Lugo's return spoiled in 7-5 Royals loss against Tigers in AL Central clash

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/63ixh65BNXempQovtv23WL?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

KFEQ Morning Sports

Garage Beer, co-owned by Jason and Travis Kelce, announced that it is now a part-owner of the St. Joseph Goats.

“This is more than a sponsorship—it’s a bold, possibly confusing leap into the world of professional sports ownership, and we couldn’t be more excited," Garage Beer stated in a post on social media.

The Goats ownership group also includes former Chiefs running back Christian Okoye.

The St. Joseph Goats compete in the Arena League and will host their first game at the Civic Arena on Saturday, June 7.&nbsp; Their opening game is this Saturday, May 31st against the&nbsp;Ozark Lunkers in Springfield, MO.&nbsp; There will be a watch party at Jakes Steakhouse and Sports Bar in downtown St. Joseph, kickoff at 6:30pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostGarage Beer, co-owned by Jason and Travis Kelce, announced that it is now a part-owner of the St. Joseph Goats.“This is more than a sponsorship—it’s a bold, possibly confusing leap into the world of professional sports ownership, and we couldn’t be more excited," Garage Beer stated in a post on social media.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It’s GOOD to be GOAT <a href="https://twitter.com/KansasCityGoats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KansasCityGoats</a> <a href="https://t.co/IXguIMOmmX">pic.twitter.com/IXguIMOmmX</a>&mdash; Garage Beer (@drinkgaragebeer) <a href="https://twitter.com/drinkgaragebeer/status/1928089012964647284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Goats ownership group also includes former Chiefs running back Christian Okoye.The St. Joseph Goats compete in the Arena League and will host their first game at the Civic Arena on Saturday, June 7.&nbsp; Their opening game is this Saturday, May 31st against the&nbsp;Ozark Lunkers in Springfield, MO.&nbsp; There will be a watch party at Jakes Steakhouse and Sports Bar in downtown St. Joseph, kickoff at 6:30pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid02DaL1QwhtR6Du7dF1pARC6DFN2cmALN7ejvhAwA2WqKLhkowq93KbWbDbaPv7TCgRl%26id%3D100093476028835&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="691" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kelce owned beer company buys stake in St. Joseph Goats

Benton High School has found the next man to lead their football program, hiring longtime coach Mark Cole as their head coach athletic director Brett Goodwin announced today.&nbsp;

Cole coached for 27 years,including 20 years as a head coach, with stops in Gallatin, Savannah, Maysville, and Milan.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has won six district championships, six conference titles, made 10 playoff appearances and three semifinal appearances.

Cole was hired after Corey Bertini announced he would be stepping down earlier this month to take a job in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748530996053.jpeg" alt="The Benton Cardinals have tabbed Mark Cole as the next head coach to lead the football program after Corey Bertini's departure/ Photo courtesy of Benton High School Sports Marketing on X" />
 <figcaption>The Benton Cardinals have tabbed Mark Cole as the next head coach to lead the football program after Corey Bertini's departure/ Photo courtesy of Benton High School Sports Marketing on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostBenton High School has found the next man to lead their football program, hiring longtime coach Mark Cole as their head coach athletic director Brett Goodwin announced today.&nbsp;Cole coached for 27 years,including 20 years as a head coach, with stops in Gallatin, Savannah, Maysville, and Milan.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has won six district championships, six conference titles, made 10 playoff appearances and three semifinal appearances.Cole was hired after Corey Bertini announced he would be stepping down earlier this month to take a job in the Kansas City area.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Benton hires Mark Cole as next head football coach

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/0aXHcITJQhH7WbohBiUMe6?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Asked recently how he would describe an offense that ranks in the National League’s top five in five major statistical categories, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol was succinct, but very descriptive with his one-word choice.

“Relentless,” Marmol marveled while pointing out that St. Louis has gotten contributions from players up and down the lineup on a regular basis.

One night after throttling the Orioles with 14 hits, the Cards manufactured their 24th double-digit hit game of the season, overcame three- and two-run deficits and rode the strength of Brendan Donovan's go-ahead home run to rally for a 6-4 win over the O’s at rainy Camden Yards.

It started when Baltimore took a three run lead in the bottom of the second inning, starting with back-to-back-to-back singles with Cedric Mullins driving in Ryan O'Hearn.&nbsp; Mullins stole second base, his eight stolen base of the year, and on a&nbsp;Maverick Handley ground out, Ramón Urías came home to score.&nbsp; Mullins scored on a double by Jackson Holliday with two outs in the inning.

In the fourth inning, the Cardinals began their comeback, scoring two runs to cut the lead to one, Jordan Walker singling to drive in Masyn Winn and Donovan.&nbsp; But in the bottom half, the Orioles pushed the lead back to two, as former Cardinal Dylan Carlson singled driving in Mullins.&nbsp;

Trailing 4-2, St. Louis took the lead in the fifth inning, thanks to Donovan's home run.&nbsp; But first, it was back to back doubles by Lars Nootbaar and Winn that cut the lead to one again.&nbsp; Donovan homered following Winn's double, giving the Cardinals their first lead of the game.&nbsp; In the seventh,&nbsp;Iván Herrera doubled home Winn, who opened the inning with a double, for the final run of the game.&nbsp;

Ryan Helsley closed out the game, giving up two hits, for his 12th save.&nbsp; John King earned the win in relief, improving to 2-0 on the season, pitching one inning and striking out two.&nbsp; Winn led the way at the plate, going 4-for-5 with two doubles, one RBI, and three runs scored.

The Cardinals are off on Thursday.&nbsp; St. Louis travels to Texas on Friday to begin a series with the Rangers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 2.73 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals, while the Rangers starter is currently listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:05pm, pregame will be joined at 6:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAsked recently how he would describe an offense that ranks in the National League’s top five in five major statistical categories, Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol was succinct, but very descriptive with his one-word choice.“Relentless,” Marmol marveled while pointing out that St. Louis has gotten contributions from players up and down the lineup on a regular basis.One night after throttling the Orioles with 14 hits, the Cards manufactured their 24th double-digit hit game of the season, overcame three- and two-run deficits and rode the strength of Brendan Donovan's go-ahead home run to rally for a 6-4 win over the O’s at rainy Camden Yards.It started when Baltimore took a three run lead in the bottom of the second inning, starting with back-to-back-to-back singles with Cedric Mullins driving in Ryan O'Hearn.&nbsp; Mullins stole second base, his eight stolen base of the year, and on a&nbsp;Maverick Handley ground out, Ramón Urías came home to score.&nbsp; Mullins scored on a double by Jackson Holliday with two outs in the inning.In the fourth inning, the Cardinals began their comeback, scoring two runs to cut the lead to one, Jordan Walker singling to drive in Masyn Winn and Donovan.&nbsp; But in the bottom half, the Orioles pushed the lead back to two, as former Cardinal Dylan Carlson singled driving in Mullins.&nbsp;Trailing 4-2, St. Louis took the lead in the fifth inning, thanks to Donovan's home run.&nbsp; But first, it was back to back doubles by Lars Nootbaar and Winn that cut the lead to one again.&nbsp; Donovan homered following Winn's double, giving the Cardinals their first lead of the game.&nbsp; In the seventh,&nbsp;Iván Herrera doubled home Winn, who opened the inning with a double, for the final run of the game.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">DESTROYED BY DONNIE! <a href="https://t.co/6ieIGERE9U">pic.twitter.com/6ieIGERE9U</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1927886925135843699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ryan Helsley closed out the game, giving up two hits, for his 12th save.&nbsp; John King earned the win in relief, improving to 2-0 on the season, pitching one inning and striking out two.&nbsp; Winn led the way at the plate, going 4-for-5 with two doubles, one RBI, and three runs scored.The Cardinals are off on Thursday.&nbsp; St. Louis travels to Texas on Friday to begin a series with the Rangers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 2.73 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals, while the Rangers starter is currently listed as TBD.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:05pm, pregame will be joined at 6:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cards 'relentless' offense earns series win over Orioles with 6-4 win

The St. Joseph Mustangs took advantage of five errors and also used a big five run sixth inning to score an 11-0 shutout victory over the NEMO Craze on opening night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;

Mustangs newcomer Jack Mosh had a big night, going just 1-for-1 at the plate with a double, but walking twice and stealing two bases, scoring two runs in the victory.&nbsp; Mustangs pitchers combined for 20 strikeouts on the night, starter Aron Harrington striking out nine.&nbsp; East Buchanan alum Bronco Whitt, one of last years pitchers of the year, struck out two in one inning of relief.&nbsp;

The Mustangs plated one run in the second inning when Savannah alum Truman Bodenhausen doubled scoring Mosh for the opening score.&nbsp; Another run scored in the fourth, again by Mosh as Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith singled into left field, pushing the lead to 2-0.&nbsp;

St. Joseph doubled their lead in the fifth inning, Dom Felix grounding out and scoring Logan Miller, advancing Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart to third base.&nbsp; Luikart scored as&nbsp;Tyler Gundelfinger reached on an error, extending the lead before the Mustangs broke things open in the sixth inning.&nbsp;

In the sixth, with the bases loaded, Felix walked bringing home Bodenhausen and keeping the bases loaded, though not for long as Bishop LeBlond alum and Missouri Western baseball player Frank Gall scored on a wild pitch.&nbsp; Benton alum and University of Nebraska-Omaha commit Chris Coy walked to reload the bases, then on a passed ball moved to second base as Luikart scored.&nbsp; The final two runs came as Griffith reached on an error, scoring both Felix and Coy.&nbsp;

In the seventh inning, after Gall led off with a double and Miller walked, Luikart reached on an error and Gall crossed home.&nbsp; Miller and Luikart advanced bases later in the inning on a wild pitch, then Miller in the inning on another wild pitch for the final run of the game.&nbsp;

The Mustangs are back in action at 7 p.m. on Friday at Phil Welch taking on the KC Monarchs.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs took advantage of five errors and also used a big five run sixth inning to score an 11-0 shutout victory over the NEMO Craze on opening night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;Mustangs newcomer Jack Mosh had a big night, going just 1-for-1 at the plate with a double, but walking twice and stealing two bases, scoring two runs in the victory.&nbsp; Mustangs pitchers combined for 20 strikeouts on the night, starter Aron Harrington striking out nine.&nbsp; East Buchanan alum Bronco Whitt, one of last years pitchers of the year, struck out two in one inning of relief.&nbsp;The Mustangs plated one run in the second inning when Savannah alum Truman Bodenhausen doubled scoring Mosh for the opening score.&nbsp; Another run scored in the fourth, again by Mosh as Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith singled into left field, pushing the lead to 2-0.&nbsp;St. Joseph doubled their lead in the fifth inning, Dom Felix grounding out and scoring Logan Miller, advancing Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart to third base.&nbsp; Luikart scored as&nbsp;Tyler Gundelfinger reached on an error, extending the lead before the Mustangs broke things open in the sixth inning.&nbsp;In the sixth, with the bases loaded, Felix walked bringing home Bodenhausen and keeping the bases loaded, though not for long as Bishop LeBlond alum and Missouri Western baseball player Frank Gall scored on a wild pitch.&nbsp; Benton alum and University of Nebraska-Omaha commit Chris Coy walked to reload the bases, then on a passed ball moved to second base as Luikart scored.&nbsp; The final two runs came as Griffith reached on an error, scoring both Felix and Coy.&nbsp;In the seventh inning, after Gall led off with a double and Miller walked, Luikart reached on an error and Gall crossed home.&nbsp; Miller and Luikart advanced bases later in the inning on a wild pitch, then Miller in the inning on another wild pitch for the final run of the game.&nbsp;The Mustangs are back in action at 7 p.m. on Friday at Phil Welch taking on the KC Monarchs.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mustangs get 11-0 shutout victory on opening night

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron struggled slightly with his command in his fourth major league start, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium as the Kansas City Royals avoided being swept by the Cincinnati Reds with a 3-2 victory on Wednesday night.&nbsp;

Cameron though, held the Reds scoreless and to just three hits through five innings, while the Royals gave him a lead scoring a run in the fourth inning, Maikel Garcia singling and then scoring all the way from first base on a single by Drew Waters, and then extending the lead in the fifth as John Rave doubled for his first major league hit, and then scored on a double by Bobby Witt Jr after advancing to third base on a sacrifice bunt by Dairon Blanco.&nbsp;

Back to back ground outs by Santiago Espinal and Elly De La Cruz opened the sixth inning for Cameron, but then the left handed pitcher ran into trouble and walked Austin Hays, before surrendering back to back singles to Tyler Stephenson and Spencer Steer, scoring Hays and cutting the Royals lead to 2-1.&nbsp;

After Kansas City was unable add any runs in the bottom of the sixth, Cameron started out the seventh getting Matt McLain to fly out to center field but walked Garrett Hampson before being replaced by Angel Zerpa.&nbsp; Zerpa gave up a single to&nbsp;TJ Friedl, but then forced Espinal to ground into a double play ending the inning.&nbsp; The Royals went on to extend their lead in the seventh inning, Kyle Isbel and Jonathan India walking, both advancing on a wild pitch, Isbel scoring on a sacrifice fly by Witt Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the eighth inning, De La Cruz doubled off Zerpa to lead off the inning, and Royals manager Matt Quatraro went to the bullpen again calling on John Schreiber.&nbsp; Schreiber allowed the run to score, though it was charged to Zerpa, as Steer singled later in the inning driving in De La Cruz, before Carlos Estévez came on for the last out of the eighth, before staying on for the ninth to earn his 15th save.&nbsp;

Cameron improved to 2-1 with the win, pitching 6 1/3 innings and giving up one run on six hits, walking two and striking out two.&nbsp; Cameron is just the second pitcher since 1893 with 6 1/3+ innings pitched and one run or less in his first four MLB starts.&nbsp; India and Garcia led the way at the plate, India going 2-for-3 and Garcia going 2-for-4 with one run scored, in the win.&nbsp;

Kansas City is off on Thursday.&nbsp; Kansas City hosts Detroit on Friday at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp; Seth Lugo (3-4, 3.02 ERA) is slated to start for the Royals, returning from the injured list, against Casey Mize (6-1, 2.45 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch Friday is at 7:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 6:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748487231031.jpeg" alt="Noah Cameron struggled slightly with command, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches over 6 1/3 innings, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium in a 3-2 win for the Royals over the Cincinnati Reds/ Photo courtesy of MLB on X" />
 <figcaption>Noah Cameron struggled slightly with command, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches over 6 1/3 innings, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium in a 3-2 win for the Royals over the Cincinnati Reds/ Photo courtesy of MLB on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph's Noah Cameron struggled slightly with his command in his fourth major league start, throwing 59 strikes on 92 pitches, but earned his first win at Kauffman Stadium as the Kansas City Royals avoided being swept by the Cincinnati Reds with a 3-2 victory on Wednesday night.&nbsp;Cameron though, held the Reds scoreless and to just three hits through five innings, while the Royals gave him a lead scoring a run in the fourth inning, Maikel Garcia singling and then scoring all the way from first base on a single by Drew Waters, and then extending the lead in the fifth as John Rave doubled for his first major league hit, and then scored on a double by Bobby Witt Jr after advancing to third base on a sacrifice bunt by Dairon Blanco.&nbsp;Back to back ground outs by Santiago Espinal and Elly De La Cruz opened the sixth inning for Cameron, but then the left handed pitcher ran into trouble and walked Austin Hays, before surrendering back to back singles to Tyler Stephenson and Spencer Steer, scoring Hays and cutting the Royals lead to 2-1.&nbsp;After Kansas City was unable add any runs in the bottom of the sixth, Cameron started out the seventh getting Matt McLain to fly out to center field but walked Garrett Hampson before being replaced by Angel Zerpa.&nbsp; Zerpa gave up a single to&nbsp;TJ Friedl, but then forced Espinal to ground into a double play ending the inning.&nbsp; The Royals went on to extend their lead in the seventh inning, Kyle Isbel and Jonathan India walking, both advancing on a wild pitch, Isbel scoring on a sacrifice fly by Witt Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the eighth inning, De La Cruz doubled off Zerpa to lead off the inning, and Royals manager Matt Quatraro went to the bullpen again calling on John Schreiber.&nbsp; Schreiber allowed the run to score, though it was charged to Zerpa, as Steer singled later in the inning driving in De La Cruz, before Carlos Estévez came on for the last out of the eighth, before staying on for the ninth to earn his 15th save.&nbsp;Cameron improved to 2-1 with the win, pitching 6 1/3 innings and giving up one run on six hits, walking two and striking out two.&nbsp; Cameron is just the second pitcher since 1893 with 6 1/3+ innings pitched and one run or less in his first four MLB starts.&nbsp; India and Garcia led the way at the plate, India going 2-for-3 and Garcia going 2-for-4 with one run scored, in the win.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Noah Cameron is the 2nd pitcher since 1893 with 6.1+ IP and 1 run or less in his first 4 MLB starts 🤯 (H/T <a href="https://twitter.com/EliasSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliasSports</a>) <a href="https://t.co/5x4tDTRlrd">pic.twitter.com/5x4tDTRlrd</a>&mdash; MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1927904355358851439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City is off on Thursday.&nbsp; Kansas City hosts Detroit on Friday at Kauffman Stadium.&nbsp; Seth Lugo (3-4, 3.02 ERA) is slated to start for the Royals, returning from the injured list, against Casey Mize (6-1, 2.45 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch Friday is at 7:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 6:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Royals avoid sweep as Noah Cameron gets first Kauffman Stadium win

Effective immediately, Missouri Western State University Athletic Director Andy Carter has announced that the men's and women's track and field programs will be discontinued at the university.&nbsp;

"We are grateful and thankful for our student-athletes and coaches for their dedication, hard work, and the pride they have brought to our university in competition, the classroom, and the community," Carter said in a news release from the university. "This decision is in no way a reflection of their performance or commitment. It is a necessary step to address broader challenges, prepare for an ever-changing landscape in intercollegiate athletics and to ensure a sustainable future."

The decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of the university's athletic offerings and the development of a re-imagined strategic plan and facilities master plan, detailing resource allocation and long-term strategic priorities. University leadership, in partnership with the Department of Athletics, determined that these programs are not sustainable in the midst of facility limitations. 

This decision will allow a much more robust investment in the Missouri Western cross country programs.

"I am a competitor. The thought of giving up or quitting our pursuit of a new track facility is not in my nature. However, I am a realist and we have just not been able to provide the necessary facilities to support these student-athletes. It was not the outcome any of us desired, but it is the responsible thing to do," Carter added.

Student-athletes affected by this transition will be supported with compassion and assistance if they decide to go through the transfer process. The Western coaching staff and administrative services team will work with those who are close to completing their degree and support their ability to finish, provided they remain in good academic and conduct standing.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostEffective immediately, Missouri Western State University Athletic Director Andy Carter has announced that the men's and women's track and field programs will be discontinued at the university.&nbsp;"We are grateful and thankful for our student-athletes and coaches for their dedication, hard work, and the pride they have brought to our university in competition, the classroom, and the community," Carter said in a news release from the university. "This decision is in no way a reflection of their performance or commitment. It is a necessary step to address broader challenges, prepare for an ever-changing landscape in intercollegiate athletics and to ensure a sustainable future."The decision follows a comprehensive evaluation of the university's athletic offerings and the development of a re-imagined strategic plan and facilities master plan, detailing resource allocation and long-term strategic priorities. University leadership, in partnership with the Department of Athletics, determined that these programs are not sustainable in the midst of facility limitations. This decision will allow a much more robust investment in the Missouri Western cross country programs."I am a competitor. The thought of giving up or quitting our pursuit of a new track facility is not in my nature. However, I am a realist and we have just not been able to provide the necessary facilities to support these student-athletes. It was not the outcome any of us desired, but it is the responsible thing to do," Carter added.Student-athletes affected by this transition will be supported with compassion and assistance if they decide to go through the transfer process. The Western coaching staff and administrative services team will work with those who are close to completing their degree and support their ability to finish, provided they remain in good academic and conduct standing.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MWSU opts to discontinue track and field program

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/5x1pV1bNofQfhYlT847Waj?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

The 16th season of Mustangs baseball begins tonight.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A roster with several returning faces, and several new faces as well take the field tonight at Phil Welch Stadium for Opening Day. &nbsp;

Owner and General Manager Ky Turner says after working all year to get to this day, it's a fun and fulfilling feeling to start a new season&nbsp;

"I use the word a little bit nervous, just because we don't want to screw some stuff up, we've set a standard for ourselves that I think is pretty good," Turner tells reporters.&nbsp; "So, we want to reach that standard and then continue to climb that ladder just to build that guest experience."&nbsp;

The Mustangs are coming off a season in which they won their ninth championship.&nbsp; Turner says it's hard to say how that can be topped. &nbsp;

Tuner says they can't ask the team to beat teams by more runs and can't take more than first place, but winning a championship is incredible&nbsp;

"Every one of them means something, they're incredible, you know last year told a story, every summer tells a different story," Turner explains.&nbsp; "Last year was a little written for us with Dan's (Gerson) passing to see what it was going to look like, and I don't know that's what the fun part is just to see what's going to happen this year to write a new chapter in that Mustangs history book is something we look forward to."&nbsp;

New at the stadium this year, is a new video board atop the scoreboard. Turner says the new addition is exciting to help enhance the fan experience at Phil Welch Stadium&nbsp;

"We don't want to rely solely on the board, you know say here it is, look we still want to have that fan engagement that's personable, I think that's important we don't want to lose touch with that, but this absolutely allows us to enhance some of the things we're doing," Turner says.&nbsp; "We're so thankful for the opportunity from the city and the parks tax that was passed, then also the people who help supported, the 1939 Club."&nbsp;

Turner says now they get to look to what their next project could be to continue enhancing Phil Welch into the new century&nbsp;

The Mustangs take on a new opponent tonight, the northeast Missouri Craze.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:30, a new first pitch time during weekdays with gates opening at 5:15.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748397405053.jpeg" alt="Mustangs players wait for team introductions during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Mustangs players wait for team introductions during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The 16th season of Mustangs baseball begins tonight.&nbsp; &nbsp;A roster with several returning faces, and several new faces as well take the field tonight at Phil Welch Stadium for Opening Day. &nbsp;Owner and General Manager Ky Turner says after working all year to get to this day, it's a fun and fulfilling feeling to start a new season&nbsp;"I use the word a little bit nervous, just because we don't want to screw some stuff up, we've set a standard for ourselves that I think is pretty good," Turner tells reporters.&nbsp; "So, we want to reach that standard and then continue to climb that ladder just to build that guest experience."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748397594548.jpeg" alt="Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner addresses fans during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Mustangs General Manager and Owner Ky Turner addresses fans during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>The Mustangs are coming off a season in which they won their ninth championship.&nbsp; Turner says it's hard to say how that can be topped. &nbsp;Tuner says they can't ask the team to beat teams by more runs and can't take more than first place, but winning a championship is incredible&nbsp;"Every one of them means something, they're incredible, you know last year told a story, every summer tells a different story," Turner explains.&nbsp; "Last year was a little written for us with Dan's (Gerson) passing to see what it was going to look like, and I don't know that's what the fun part is just to see what's going to happen this year to write a new chapter in that Mustangs history book is something we look forward to."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748397727171.jpeg" alt="A new video board sits atop the outfield scoreboard at Phil Welch Stadium/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>A new video board sits atop the outfield scoreboard at Phil Welch Stadium/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>New at the stadium this year, is a new video board atop the scoreboard. Turner says the new addition is exciting to help enhance the fan experience at Phil Welch Stadium&nbsp;"We don't want to rely solely on the board, you know say here it is, look we still want to have that fan engagement that's personable, I think that's important we don't want to lose touch with that, but this absolutely allows us to enhance some of the things we're doing," Turner says.&nbsp; "We're so thankful for the opportunity from the city and the parks tax that was passed, then also the people who help supported, the 1939 Club."&nbsp;Turner says now they get to look to what their next project could be to continue enhancing Phil Welch into the new century&nbsp;The Mustangs take on a new opponent tonight, the northeast Missouri Craze.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:30, a new first pitch time during weekdays with gates opening at 5:15.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748397794724.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan alum Bronco Whitt (11) and Bishop LeBlond alum and current Northwest Missouri State pitcher Jaren Guck (17) sign autographs for fans during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt PIke" />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan alum Bronco Whitt (11) and Bishop LeBlond alum and current Northwest Missouri State pitcher Jaren Guck (17) sign autographs for fans during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt PIke</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748397815700.jpeg" alt="Lafayette alumni Brayden Luikart, whose back with the team after not playing last season, talks with KQ2 News Director Chris Roush during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Lafayette alumni Brayden Luikart, whose back with the team after not playing last season, talks with KQ2 News Director Chris Roush during Mustangs FanFest/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Opening Day is here as St. Joseph Mustangs begin 16th season tonight

Lars Nootbaar broke out of a recent slump and helped the St. Louis Cardinals come from behind to beat the Baltimore Orioles 7-4 on Tuesday night at&nbsp;Camden Yards.

With Lars Nootbaar feeling the doldrums of a 1-for-19 slump that included eight strikeouts and just one walk -- a skid that was particularly jarring considering his strong start to the season -- Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol called the usually bubbly leadoff hitter into his office&nbsp; for a pep talk.

Marmol’s pick-me-up session didn’t last more than a couple of minutes. And rather than go over technical stuff, such as hitting mechanics or swing decisions, Marmol’s message was instead heavy on perspective.

“I just stared at him, I smiled and I said, ‘I love you, buddy,’” Marmol said of the talk. “[Nootbaar] said, ‘Man, sometimes, this game is miserable, and we sign up for it every year.’ You just continue to encourage them. Because this game is hard. When they make adjustments, the league makes adjustments and then they have to make another adjustment.

“The better they understand this game is hard, and this is just a small window of this happening, the better perspective they will have. So, he’ll be fine. He actually has the right attitude, but there are times when [slumps] are going to suck.”

The talk paid off as Nootbaar had a three hit night, that started with a single in the first inning, later scoring the first run of the game on a single by&nbsp;Willson Contreras.&nbsp; In the second inning, Nootbaar hit a two run home run driving in Jordan Walker to put St. Louis ahead 3-0.&nbsp;

In the bottom of the fourth inning, a groundout by&nbsp;Heston Kjerstad plated the first Baltimore run as Ryan Mountcastle scored.&nbsp; In the fifth, the Orioles took the lead, scoring three runs thanks to Ryan O' Hearn blasting a three run homer to center field pushing Baltimore ahead 4-3.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Cardinals tied up the game in the seventh inning on a Masyn Winn single, Victor Scott II scoring after he was walked to open the inning.&nbsp; In the eighth, Nolan Arenado led the inning off with a go ahead home run, before the lead was extended on back to back triples by Nolan Gorman and Walker.&nbsp; Walker later scored on a single by Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Steven Matz earned the win in relief, improving to 3-1 on the season, pitching 1 1/3 innings and giving up one hit while striking out one.&nbsp; Andre Pallante in a no decision pitched 5 2/3 innings, striking out seven while giving up all four runs, three earned, on six hits and striking out seven while walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Nootbaar led the way going 3-4 with two RBI's and two runs scored, walking once.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Baltimore wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (4-2, 3.51 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Cade Povich (1-3, 4.86 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:35 pm, pregame will be joined at 5:25 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostLars Nootbaar broke out of a recent slump and helped the St. Louis Cardinals come from behind to beat the Baltimore Orioles 7-4 on Tuesday night at&nbsp;Camden Yards.With Lars Nootbaar feeling the doldrums of a 1-for-19 slump that included eight strikeouts and just one walk -- a skid that was particularly jarring considering his strong start to the season -- Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol called the usually bubbly leadoff hitter into his office&nbsp; for a pep talk.Marmol’s pick-me-up session didn’t last more than a couple of minutes. And rather than go over technical stuff, such as hitting mechanics or swing decisions, Marmol’s message was instead heavy on perspective.“I just stared at him, I smiled and I said, ‘I love you, buddy,’” Marmol said of the talk. “[Nootbaar] said, ‘Man, sometimes, this game is miserable, and we sign up for it every year.’ You just continue to encourage them. Because this game is hard. When they make adjustments, the league makes adjustments and then they have to make another adjustment.“The better they understand this game is hard, and this is just a small window of this happening, the better perspective they will have. So, he’ll be fine. He actually has the right attitude, but there are times when [slumps] are going to suck.”The talk paid off as Nootbaar had a three hit night, that started with a single in the first inning, later scoring the first run of the game on a single by&nbsp;Willson Contreras.&nbsp; In the second inning, Nootbaar hit a two run home run driving in Jordan Walker to put St. Louis ahead 3-0.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Two-run Noot Bomb!! 💣 <a href="https://t.co/Mg9XDbnIno">pic.twitter.com/Mg9XDbnIno</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1927500897728512481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the bottom of the fourth inning, a groundout by&nbsp;Heston Kjerstad plated the first Baltimore run as Ryan Mountcastle scored.&nbsp; In the fifth, the Orioles took the lead, scoring three runs thanks to Ryan O' Hearn blasting a three run homer to center field pushing Baltimore ahead 4-3.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Cardinals tied up the game in the seventh inning on a Masyn Winn single, Victor Scott II scoring after he was walked to open the inning.&nbsp; In the eighth, Nolan Arenado led the inning off with a go ahead home run, before the lead was extended on back to back triples by Nolan Gorman and Walker.&nbsp; Walker later scored on a single by Winn.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NOLAN ARENADO MAKES A SPLASH!! 🌊 <a href="https://t.co/asnAXWY31m">pic.twitter.com/asnAXWY31m</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1927530727450538028?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Back-to-back triples and this dugout is FIRED UP! 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/sEADdhxgVf">pic.twitter.com/sEADdhxgVf</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1927531641855189168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Steven Matz earned the win in relief, improving to 3-1 on the season, pitching 1 1/3 innings and giving up one hit while striking out one.&nbsp; Andre Pallante in a no decision pitched 5 2/3 innings, striking out seven while giving up all four runs, three earned, on six hits and striking out seven while walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Nootbaar led the way going 3-4 with two RBI's and two runs scored, walking once.&nbsp;St. Louis and Baltimore wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (4-2, 3.51 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Cade Povich (1-3, 4.86 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:35 pm, pregame will be joined at 5:25 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cardinals comeback and score 7-4 win over Orioles

In search of a leadoff hitter this past offseason, the Kansas City Royals traded Brady Singer to the Cincinnati Reds for Jonathan India, and also outfielder Joey Weimer.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Singer made his return to Kansas City, and shut down the Royals offense in a 7-2 win for his new club.&nbsp;

Tyler Stephenson gave Cincinnati the lead in the top of the second inning with a solo home run, but in the bottom half of the inning Kansas City got to Singer with four singles by Maikel Garcia, Michael Massey, Kyle Isbel, and India, with Garcia and Massey scoring runs in the inning to give the Royals a lead.&nbsp; After that inning however, Kansas City managed just four more hits&nbsp;

The Reds tied the game in the fourth inning, Elly De La Cruz hitting his 10th home run of the season off of Jonathan Bowlan.&nbsp; In the sixth inning, it was De La Cruz going deep again, this time off Taylor Clarke to give Cincinnati the lead, both of&nbsp; his home runs leading off their respective innings.&nbsp;

John Schreiber replaced Clarke in the eighth inning, and the Reds added three more runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;TJ Friedl singled and then scored on a throwing error by Schreiber following a single from Santiago Espinal, who advanced to second on the error.&nbsp; Schreiber intentionally walked De La Cruz, but then issued back to back walks to Stephenson and Spencer Steer, driving in Espinal for a score.&nbsp; Angel Zerpa came on in relief and forced pinch hitter Matt McLain to ground out, but with only one out De La Cruz came home to score.&nbsp;

In the ninth inning, with Steven Cruz pitching, Espinal doubled to drive in&nbsp;Friedl for the final score of the game.&nbsp; Singer earned the win, pitching seven innings, striking out three and giving up two runs on seven hits.&nbsp;

Clarke took the loss in relief, falling to 1-1. giving up just the one run on one hit, striking out three.&nbsp; In another bullpen game, in place of the injured Cole Ragans, Kansas City used seven pitchers.&nbsp; India and Massey led the way for the Royals with two hits each, going 2-4, with Massey scoring a run and India driving a run in.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Cincinnati wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.93 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against Hunter Greene (4-2, 2.54 ERA).&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostIn search of a leadoff hitter this past offseason, the Kansas City Royals traded Brady Singer to the Cincinnati Reds for Jonathan India, and also outfielder Joey Weimer.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Singer made his return to Kansas City, and shut down the Royals offense in a 7-2 win for his new club.&nbsp;Tyler Stephenson gave Cincinnati the lead in the top of the second inning with a solo home run, but in the bottom half of the inning Kansas City got to Singer with four singles by Maikel Garcia, Michael Massey, Kyle Isbel, and India, with Garcia and Massey scoring runs in the inning to give the Royals a lead.&nbsp; After that inning however, Kansas City managed just four more hits&nbsp;The Reds tied the game in the fourth inning, Elly De La Cruz hitting his 10th home run of the season off of Jonathan Bowlan.&nbsp; In the sixth inning, it was De La Cruz going deep again, this time off Taylor Clarke to give Cincinnati the lead, both of&nbsp; his home runs leading off their respective innings.&nbsp;John Schreiber replaced Clarke in the eighth inning, and the Reds added three more runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;TJ Friedl singled and then scored on a throwing error by Schreiber following a single from Santiago Espinal, who advanced to second on the error.&nbsp; Schreiber intentionally walked De La Cruz, but then issued back to back walks to Stephenson and Spencer Steer, driving in Espinal for a score.&nbsp; Angel Zerpa came on in relief and forced pinch hitter Matt McLain to ground out, but with only one out De La Cruz came home to score.&nbsp;In the ninth inning, with Steven Cruz pitching, Espinal doubled to drive in&nbsp;Friedl for the final score of the game.&nbsp; Singer earned the win, pitching seven innings, striking out three and giving up two runs on seven hits.&nbsp;Clarke took the loss in relief, falling to 1-1. giving up just the one run on one hit, striking out three.&nbsp; In another bullpen game, in place of the injured Cole Ragans, Kansas City used seven pitchers.&nbsp; India and Massey led the way for the Royals with two hits each, going 2-4, with Massey scoring a run and India driving a run in.&nbsp;Kansas City and Cincinnati wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Noah Cameron (1-1, 0.93 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against Hunter Greene (4-2, 2.54 ERA).&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Former Royal Singer has successful return in 7-2 win over Royals

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6u0uCRmGsXyHY9gNiFkn7B?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Following a month-long reset in the bullpen, Charlie Morton was reinserted into the Orioles’ rotation for a Memorial Day matchup&nbsp; against the St. Louis Cardinals at Camden Yards. The veteran proceeded to deliver his best performance thus far, cruising for the majority of a season-high six innings and allowing only two runs as the Cardinals fell 5-2 to Baltimore.&nbsp;

Baltimore scored all their runs in the first five innings, which would be all the offense the O's would need.&nbsp; Jackson Holliday scored a run on a groundout by Gunnar Henderson in the first inning for the first run of the game.&nbsp; In the third inning, it was Holliday singling to drive in former Cardinal Dylan Carlson, before in the fourth inning, Carlson hit a three run home run, scoring himself,&nbsp; Ryan O'Hearn, and Heston Kjerstad for the 5-0 lead.&nbsp;

Morton’s strong 86-pitch outing -- which featured five strikeouts and only four hits allowed, including the only offense the Cardinals got in the fifth inning, a two run home run by Pedro Pagés, rewarded the patience of the Orioles, who remained “very confident” he could get on track, as interim manager Tony Mansolino put it.

After going 0-5 with a 10.89 ERA over his first five O’s starts, Morton was sent to the bullpen. At first, the results weren’t much better (a 6.43 ERA in his first three relief outings). Then, something clicked in Anaheim on May 10, when he tossed two perfect innings.&nbsp; Morton has a 2.35 ERA in 15 1/3 innings over his past four appearances, the most recent earning him his first Orioles win.

Erick Fedde took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 3-4 on the season, giving up five runs, just three earned, on seven hits while striking out five batters and walking one.&nbsp; Nolan Gorman led at the plate for St. Louis, going 2-3 with one run scored.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Louis and Baltimore continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; &nbsp;Andre Pallante (4-3, 4.18 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Tomoyuki Sugano (4-3, 3.07 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:35pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 5:25 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFollowing a month-long reset in the bullpen, Charlie Morton was reinserted into the Orioles’ rotation for a Memorial Day matchup&nbsp; against the St. Louis Cardinals at Camden Yards. The veteran proceeded to deliver his best performance thus far, cruising for the majority of a season-high six innings and allowing only two runs as the Cardinals fell 5-2 to Baltimore.&nbsp;Baltimore scored all their runs in the first five innings, which would be all the offense the O's would need.&nbsp; Jackson Holliday scored a run on a groundout by Gunnar Henderson in the first inning for the first run of the game.&nbsp; In the third inning, it was Holliday singling to drive in former Cardinal Dylan Carlson, before in the fourth inning, Carlson hit a three run home run, scoring himself,&nbsp; Ryan O'Hearn, and Heston Kjerstad for the 5-0 lead.&nbsp;Morton’s strong 86-pitch outing -- which featured five strikeouts and only four hits allowed, including the only offense the Cardinals got in the fifth inning, a two run home run by Pedro Pagés, rewarded the patience of the Orioles, who remained “very confident” he could get on track, as interim manager Tony Mansolino put it.After going 0-5 with a 10.89 ERA over his first five O’s starts, Morton was sent to the bullpen. At first, the results weren’t much better (a 6.43 ERA in his first three relief outings). Then, something clicked in Anaheim on May 10, when he tossed two perfect innings.&nbsp; Morton has a 2.35 ERA in 15 1/3 innings over his past four appearances, the most recent earning him his first Orioles win.Erick Fedde took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 3-4 on the season, giving up five runs, just three earned, on seven hits while striking out five batters and walking one.&nbsp; Nolan Gorman led at the plate for St. Louis, going 2-3 with one run scored.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis and Baltimore continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; &nbsp;Andre Pallante (4-3, 4.18 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Tomoyuki Sugano (4-3, 3.07 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 5:35pm, pregame coverage will be joined at 5:25 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Surging Cardinals slowed down by Charlie Morton in 5-2 loss to O's

Needing some length from their starting pitcher after a series against the Chicago Cubs that taxed their bullpen, the Cincinnati Reds got a quality start from Nick Martinez as they beat the Royals 7-4 at Kauffman Stadium on Memorial Day.&nbsp;

For the Royals, it was their sixth loss in their last ten games as Kansas City has seen their offense be stagnant as of late.&nbsp; Prior to the game on Monday, the Royals made a move to spark the lineup, optioning struggling utility player Cavan Biggio to Triple A Omaha for outfielder John Rave.&nbsp; Rave was having a breakout season in Omaha, posting a .301 average with nine home runs and 25 RBIs.&nbsp;

The Reds opened the scoring in the first inning,&nbsp;TJ Friedl scoring on a sacrifice fly by Austin Hays.&nbsp; Cincinnati added three more runs in the third inning as Gavin Lux singled home Elly De La Cruz, Tyler Stephenson hit a single to drive in Hays, and Lux scored on a sacrifice fly by Will Benson.&nbsp; The lead swelled even more in the fifth inning off Royals starter Michael Lorenzen when Stephenson hit a two run home run, putting the Reds up at the end of five innings 6-0.&nbsp;

Kansas City did begin to make a rally in the seventh inning, cutting the lead in half with a three run inning.&nbsp; Vinnie Pasquantino singled to open the inning before Salvador Perez blasted his fourth home run of the season to left field.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia followed that with a double and advanced to third on a bunt by Rave, that was initially called safe before being overturned on a challenge, and then scored on a sacrifice fly from Nick Loftin cutting the lead to 6-3.&nbsp;

Santiago Espinal doubled home Hays, who tripled, in the top of the eighth for the final run for the Reds.&nbsp; Kansas City added their final run in the ninth inning after loading the bases, Pasquantino coming home to score on a balk by relief pitcher&nbsp;Emilio Pagán.

Lorenzen fell to 3-6 with the loss, pitching five innings and giving up six runs on 11 hits, striking out two and walking three.&nbsp; Angel Zerpa, Evan Sisk, and Steven Cruz combined to give up three hits, one run, with Sisk and Cruz each striking out three.&nbsp; At the plate, Pasquantino led the way going 3-4 with two runs scored

Kansas City and Cincinnati continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch (3-1, 1.57 ERA) will get the start as the Royals will put together another bullpen game, taking on former Royal Brady Singer (5-3, 4.88 ERA) for the Reds.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostNeeding some length from their starting pitcher after a series against the Chicago Cubs that taxed their bullpen, the Cincinnati Reds got a quality start from Nick Martinez as they beat the Royals 7-4 at Kauffman Stadium on Memorial Day.&nbsp;For the Royals, it was their sixth loss in their last ten games as Kansas City has seen their offense be stagnant as of late.&nbsp; Prior to the game on Monday, the Royals made a move to spark the lineup, optioning struggling utility player Cavan Biggio to Triple A Omaha for outfielder John Rave.&nbsp; Rave was having a breakout season in Omaha, posting a .301 average with nine home runs and 25 RBIs.&nbsp;The Reds opened the scoring in the first inning,&nbsp;TJ Friedl scoring on a sacrifice fly by Austin Hays.&nbsp; Cincinnati added three more runs in the third inning as Gavin Lux singled home Elly De La Cruz, Tyler Stephenson hit a single to drive in Hays, and Lux scored on a sacrifice fly by Will Benson.&nbsp; The lead swelled even more in the fifth inning off Royals starter Michael Lorenzen when Stephenson hit a two run home run, putting the Reds up at the end of five innings 6-0.&nbsp;Kansas City did begin to make a rally in the seventh inning, cutting the lead in half with a three run inning.&nbsp; Vinnie Pasquantino singled to open the inning before Salvador Perez blasted his fourth home run of the season to left field.&nbsp; Maikel Garcia followed that with a double and advanced to third on a bunt by Rave, that was initially called safe before being overturned on a challenge, and then scored on a sacrifice fly from Nick Loftin cutting the lead to 6-3.&nbsp;Santiago Espinal doubled home Hays, who tripled, in the top of the eighth for the final run for the Reds.&nbsp; Kansas City added their final run in the ninth inning after loading the bases, Pasquantino coming home to score on a balk by relief pitcher&nbsp;Emilio Pagán.Lorenzen fell to 3-6 with the loss, pitching five innings and giving up six runs on 11 hits, striking out two and walking three.&nbsp; Angel Zerpa, Evan Sisk, and Steven Cruz combined to give up three hits, one run, with Sisk and Cruz each striking out three.&nbsp; At the plate, Pasquantino led the way going 3-4 with two runs scoredKansas City and Cincinnati continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Daniel Lynch (3-1, 1.57 ERA) will get the start as the Royals will put together another bullpen game, taking on former Royal Brady Singer (5-3, 4.88 ERA) for the Reds.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:40pm, pregame coverage begins at 6 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Martinez's quality start saves Reds bullpen in 7-4 series opening win over Royals

The St. Louis Cardinals bounced back from a tough luck series against the Detroit Tigers in a big way, sweeping the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 4-3 win on Sunday afternoon at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;

The sweep didn't come easy as for the first time in the series it was the Cardinals that had to come from behind, as Arizona took the lead in the first inning,&nbsp;Eugenio Suárez singling and driving in Ketel Marte and Josh Naylor.&nbsp; 

St. Louis cut the lead to one in the bottom half of the inning,&nbsp;Iván Herrera singling home Brendan Donovan.&nbsp; Masyn Winn tied up the game in the bottom of the third inning, a solo home run to left field, his sixth home run of the season that sailed 397 feet.&nbsp;

The Diamondbacks took the lead back in the top of the sixth inning, Pavin Smith singling to drive in&nbsp;Suárez, but the Cardinals tied up the game again the bottom half of the inning after Winn, who walked to open the inning and raced to third on a single by Donovan, scored on a sacrifice fly by Herrera.&nbsp;

In the seventh inning, it was Victor Scott II who delivered the clutch go ahead hit for St. Louis.&nbsp;&nbsp;The D-backs adjusted just the way the numbers called for them to bringing in left-handed pitcher Jalen Beeks out of the bullpen against the left hander Scott.&nbsp; Despite hitting just .191 this season against lefties entering Sunday -- .121 points less than his batting average against right-handed pitchers -- Scott drilled a hard-hit single that Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte couldn’t handle to plate Jordan Walker and put the Cardinals ahead 4-3.

JoJo Romero pitched a scoreless eighth, just walking one batter, before Phil Maton came on in the ninth, striking out two and giving up one hit on way to his second save of the season.&nbsp; John King, who pitched the seventh, earned his first win of the season.&nbsp; At the plate, Donovan led the way going 3-4 with one run scored.&nbsp; Walker was 2-3 with a run scored as well.&nbsp;

St. Louis hits the road tomorrow and travels to Baltimore.&nbsp; Erick Fedde (3-3, 3.77 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Charlie Morton (0-7, 7.68 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05 with pregame being joined at 1:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Louis Cardinals bounced back from a tough luck series against the Detroit Tigers in a big way, sweeping the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 4-3 win on Sunday afternoon at Busch Stadium.&nbsp;The sweep didn't come easy as for the first time in the series it was the Cardinals that had to come from behind, as Arizona took the lead in the first inning,&nbsp;Eugenio Suárez singling and driving in Ketel Marte and Josh Naylor.&nbsp; St. Louis cut the lead to one in the bottom half of the inning,&nbsp;Iván Herrera singling home Brendan Donovan.&nbsp; Masyn Winn tied up the game in the bottom of the third inning, a solo home run to left field, his sixth home run of the season that sailed 397 feet.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Masyn Winn Hit the Buds to tie the game! Reply with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STLCards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STLCards</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HitTheBudsSweepstakes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HitTheBudsSweepstakes</a> for your chance to win whenever a Cardinals player hits a home run into the opposing bullpen! Official rules: <a href="https://t.co/v3V0xNP2oe">https://t.co/v3V0xNP2oe</a> <a href="https://t.co/3raQj0n2JJ">pic.twitter.com/3raQj0n2JJ</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1926718657071124824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Diamondbacks took the lead back in the top of the sixth inning, Pavin Smith singling to drive in&nbsp;Suárez, but the Cardinals tied up the game again the bottom half of the inning after Winn, who walked to open the inning and raced to third on a single by Donovan, scored on a sacrifice fly by Herrera.&nbsp;In the seventh inning, it was Victor Scott II who delivered the clutch go ahead hit for St. Louis.&nbsp;&nbsp;The D-backs adjusted just the way the numbers called for them to bringing in left-handed pitcher Jalen Beeks out of the bullpen against the left hander Scott.&nbsp; Despite hitting just .191 this season against lefties entering Sunday -- .121 points less than his batting average against right-handed pitchers -- Scott drilled a hard-hit single that Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte couldn’t handle to plate Jordan Walker and put the Cardinals ahead 4-3.JoJo Romero pitched a scoreless eighth, just walking one batter, before Phil Maton came on in the ninth, striking out two and giving up one hit on way to his second save of the season.&nbsp; John King, who pitched the seventh, earned his first win of the season.&nbsp; At the plate, Donovan led the way going 3-4 with one run scored.&nbsp; Walker was 2-3 with a run scored as well.&nbsp;St. Louis hits the road tomorrow and travels to Baltimore.&nbsp; Erick Fedde (3-3, 3.77 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Charlie Morton (0-7, 7.68 ERA) for the Orioles.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:05 with pregame being joined at 1:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Clutch hit from Scott helps Cardinals sweep D-Backs with 4-3 win

The Kansas City Royals avoided being swept by their AL Central foes and saved themselves from losing to much ground in the standings on Sunday afternoon, beating the Minnesota Twins 2-1 at Target Field.&nbsp;

Royal starting pitcher Kris Bubic continued his stellar month of May on the mound, giving up just one run early in the game as the Twins did take the lead in the first inning, Ryan Jeffers doubling to lead off the inning and then being driven in on a single by Ty France.&nbsp; Bubic locked in from there though and shut down Minnesota the rest of the way.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bubic pitched seven innings and struck out nine batters, giving up just those two hits and walking two batters.&nbsp; He earned a no decision after the Royals managed to tie up the game in the seventh inning as Drew Waters doubled and scored on a double by Freddy Fermin.&nbsp;

Jonathan Bowlan replaced Bubic in the eighth and recorded two outs, giving up one hit, before being replaced by Carlos&nbsp;Estévez who finished out the inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez pitched the ninth as well, continuing to shut down the Twins bats, giving up no hits and striking out two.&nbsp;

Kansas City gave&nbsp;Estévez the lead in the top of the 10th inning, with Nick Loftin starting at second base and two outs, Maikel Garcia singling into left field, extending his hit streak to 10 games, and driving in Loftin who raced home from second base for the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;

Taylor Clarke came on in the bottom half of the inning looking for his first save of the season and got Royce Lewis to pop out before walking Kody Clemens.&nbsp; Harrison Bader grounded into a force out, beating out the throw at first base to avoid the game ending double play and putting runners at the corners for Clarke.&nbsp; Bader would go on to steal second base, but Brooks Lee grounded out to Bobby Witt Jr ending the game.&nbsp;

Estévez improved to 2-0 earning the win, Clarke notched his first save of the season.&nbsp; At the plate, Waters led the way going 3-4 with one run scored while Vinnie Pasquantino was 2-4.

Kansas City returns to Kauffman Stadium tomorrow, welcoming in the Cincinnati Reds.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen (3-5, 3.77 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Nick Martinez (2-5, 3.43 ERA) for the Reds.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

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

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals avoided being swept by their AL Central foes and saved themselves from losing to much ground in the standings on Sunday afternoon, beating the Minnesota Twins 2-1 at Target Field.&nbsp;Royal starting pitcher Kris Bubic continued his stellar month of May on the mound, giving up just one run early in the game as the Twins did take the lead in the first inning, Ryan Jeffers doubling to lead off the inning and then being driven in on a single by Ty France.&nbsp; Bubic locked in from there though and shut down Minnesota the rest of the way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bubic pitched seven innings and struck out nine batters, giving up just those two hits and walking two batters.&nbsp; He earned a no decision after the Royals managed to tie up the game in the seventh inning as Drew Waters doubled and scored on a double by Freddy Fermin.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Count on Fred. <a href="https://t.co/lVnXwXmHWC">pic.twitter.com/lVnXwXmHWC</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1926726039356444899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Jonathan Bowlan replaced Bubic in the eighth and recorded two outs, giving up one hit, before being replaced by Carlos&nbsp;Estévez who finished out the inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Estévez pitched the ninth as well, continuing to shut down the Twins bats, giving up no hits and striking out two.&nbsp;Kansas City gave&nbsp;Estévez the lead in the top of the 10th inning, with Nick Loftin starting at second base and two outs, Maikel Garcia singling into left field, extending his hit streak to 10 games, and driving in Loftin who raced home from second base for the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Count it. <a href="https://t.co/dmeATFH5tn">pic.twitter.com/dmeATFH5tn</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1926739287619281350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Taylor Clarke came on in the bottom half of the inning looking for his first save of the season and got Royce Lewis to pop out before walking Kody Clemens.&nbsp; Harrison Bader grounded into a force out, beating out the throw at first base to avoid the game ending double play and putting runners at the corners for Clarke.&nbsp; Bader would go on to steal second base, but Brooks Lee grounded out to Bobby Witt Jr ending the game.&nbsp;Estévez improved to 2-0 earning the win, Clarke notched his first save of the season.&nbsp; At the plate, Waters led the way going 3-4 with one run scored while Vinnie Pasquantino was 2-4.Kansas City returns to Kauffman Stadium tomorrow, welcoming in the Cincinnati Reds.&nbsp; Michael Lorenzen (3-5, 3.77 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Nick Martinez (2-5, 3.43 ERA) for the Reds.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Royals avoid sweep with 2-1 extra innings win over Twins

Jordan Walker delivered a clutch hit in the seventh inning, and then again in the eighth, as the St. Louis Cardinals claimed the series from the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 6-5 win at Busch Stadium on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

St. Louis opened the scoring and took the lead in the bottom of the first when&nbsp;Iván Herrera singled home Masyn Winn.&nbsp; But in the top of the fifth inning, former Cardinal Randal Grichuk tied up the game with a leadoff solo home run for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; The home run was the lone run starter&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore gave up for St. Louis, before being pulled in the eighth inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Cardinals had set up Liberatore for a win, scoring three runs in the bottom half of the seventh inning.&nbsp; Alec Burleson singled and Nolan Arenado walked before Walker hit a double to the center field wall plating both runs for the St. Louis lead.&nbsp; Walker came around to score on back to back ground outs by Victor Scott II and Yohel Pozo.

Liberatore though ended up with a no decision, after Arizona scored four runs in the top of the eighth off relievers Kyle Leahy and Steven Matz to take their first lead of the game.&nbsp; Ketel Marte doubled to lead off the inning and Geraldo Perdomo singled before Marte scored on a sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Lourdes Gurriel Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eugenio Suárez singled off Leahy, who would be replaced by Matz, putting runners on the corners and Josh Naylor promptly cleared the bases off Matz with a triple, tying up the game.&nbsp; A double by Grichuk with two outs drove in Naylor to give the Diamondbacks a 5-4 lead.&nbsp;

Trailing entering the bottom half of the eighth, it was Walker again that came up clutch for the Cardinals.&nbsp; Herrera walked to open the inning and Burleson doubled, putting both in scoring position.&nbsp; Arenado grounded out, driving in Herrera, before Walker singled into center field to drive in Burleson for the go ahead run.&nbsp; Ryan Helsley closed out the game, and earned the win.

Despite Matz being the pitcher on record when the Cardinals took the lead back, Helsley was the pitcher credited with the win due to rule 9.17 c of the MLB rule book which states:&nbsp;

(c) The Official Scorer shall not credit as the winning pitcher a relief pitcher who is ineffective in a brief appearance, when at least one succeeding relief pitcher pitches effectively in helping his team maintain its lead. In such a case, the Official Scorer shall credit as the winning pitcher the succeeding relief pitcher who was most effective, in the judgment of the Official Scorer.

With the win, Helsley improves now to 2-0 on the season, giving up one hit and walking one in his one inning while striking out two.&nbsp; At the plate, Walker (2-3, 3 RBIs, 1 run) and Burleson (2-4, 2 runs) led the way hitting in the win.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Arizona wrap up their series tomorrow as St. Louis looks for the sweep.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (5-1, 4.02 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Brandon Pfaadt (7-3, 3.81 ERA) for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:15 pm with pregame being joined at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostJordan Walker delivered a clutch hit in the seventh inning, and then again in the eighth, as the St. Louis Cardinals claimed the series from the Arizona Diamondbacks with a 6-5 win at Busch Stadium on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;St. Louis opened the scoring and took the lead in the bottom of the first when&nbsp;Iván Herrera singled home Masyn Winn.&nbsp; But in the top of the fifth inning, former Cardinal Randal Grichuk tied up the game with a leadoff solo home run for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; The home run was the lone run starter&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore gave up for St. Louis, before being pulled in the eighth inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Cardinals had set up Liberatore for a win, scoring three runs in the bottom half of the seventh inning.&nbsp; Alec Burleson singled and Nolan Arenado walked before Walker hit a double to the center field wall plating both runs for the St. Louis lead.&nbsp; Walker came around to score on back to back ground outs by Victor Scott II and Yohel Pozo.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FIRE US UP, JORDAN WALKER!! 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/u9Qxl3wgKK">pic.twitter.com/u9Qxl3wgKK</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1926366613722284054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Liberatore though ended up with a no decision, after Arizona scored four runs in the top of the eighth off relievers Kyle Leahy and Steven Matz to take their first lead of the game.&nbsp; Ketel Marte doubled to lead off the inning and Geraldo Perdomo singled before Marte scored on a sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Lourdes Gurriel Jr.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eugenio Suárez singled off Leahy, who would be replaced by Matz, putting runners on the corners and Josh Naylor promptly cleared the bases off Matz with a triple, tying up the game.&nbsp; A double by Grichuk with two outs drove in Naylor to give the Diamondbacks a 5-4 lead.&nbsp;Trailing entering the bottom half of the eighth, it was Walker again that came up clutch for the Cardinals.&nbsp; Herrera walked to open the inning and Burleson doubled, putting both in scoring position.&nbsp; Arenado grounded out, driving in Herrera, before Walker singled into center field to drive in Burleson for the go ahead run.&nbsp; Ryan Helsley closed out the game, and earned the win.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jordan Walker comes up clutch again!! <a href="https://t.co/JJVfsDZwxR">pic.twitter.com/JJVfsDZwxR</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1926375525775184259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Despite Matz being the pitcher on record when the Cardinals took the lead back, Helsley was the pitcher credited with the win due to rule 9.17 c of the MLB rule book which states:&nbsp;(c) The Official Scorer shall not credit as the winning pitcher a relief pitcher who is ineffective in a brief appearance, when at least one succeeding relief pitcher pitches effectively in helping his team maintain its lead. In such a case, the Official Scorer shall credit as the winning pitcher the succeeding relief pitcher who was most effective, in the judgment of the Official Scorer.With the win, Helsley improves now to 2-0 on the season, giving up one hit and walking one in his one inning while striking out two.&nbsp; At the plate, Walker (2-3, 3 RBIs, 1 run) and Burleson (2-4, 2 runs) led the way hitting in the win.&nbsp;St. Louis and Arizona wrap up their series tomorrow as St. Louis looks for the sweep.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (5-1, 4.02 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Brandon Pfaadt (7-3, 3.81 ERA) for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:15 pm with pregame being joined at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Walker delivers clutch hit twice as Cards claim series, top D-Backs 6-5

For a second consecutive day, the Minnesota Twins won over the Kansas City Royals in walk off fashion, coming back and winning 5-4 in the middle game of a three game series at Target Field on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

The Royals had tough luck at the plate in the matchup, striking out 18 times against the Twins pitchers and going just 3-for-11 with runners in scoring position. It was however Kansas City that took the lead first in the game.

Maikel Garcia put the Royals on the board in the third inning, singling with the bases loaded and driving in Freddy Fermin and Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; Kansas City added their final two runs in the fifth inning, Pasquantino doubling home Jonathan India who walked to open the inning, and Salvador Perez singling to score Pasquantino.

In the bottom half of the fifth, Minnesota cut the lead to one scoring three runs, a big inning that started with a leadoff home run by Harrison Bader.&nbsp; Willi Castro was hit by a pitch and&nbsp;Christian Vázquez singled, and after both advanced on a groundout by Trevor Larnach, Ty France singled to drive in both runs.&nbsp; In the bottom of the sixth,&nbsp;Kody Clemens tied up the game with another solo shot leading off the inning.&nbsp;

Angel Zerpa, who replaced starter Michael Wacha following the leadoff home run, John Schreiber, and Lucas Erceg combined for three scoreless innings before Daniel Lynch was brought on in the ninth inning.&nbsp; Lynch ran into trouble, walking Carlos Correa and Ryan Jeffers, getting&nbsp;Vázquez to pop out between the walks, before being replaced by Steven Cruz.&nbsp; Cruz got France to ground out, advancing Correa and Jeffers to second and third respectively, but couldn't get out of the inning giving up the walk off single to Brooks Lee, scoring Correa.&nbsp;

Lynch was charged with the loss, falling to 3-1 on the season.&nbsp; Wacha in the no decision pitched five innings giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Pasquantino led the way at the plate going 3-4 with one RBI and two runs scored.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Minnesota wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.47 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against&nbsp;Bailey Ober (4-1, 3.68 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm with pregame at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFor a second consecutive day, the Minnesota Twins won over the Kansas City Royals in walk off fashion, coming back and winning 5-4 in the middle game of a three game series at Target Field on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;The Royals had tough luck at the plate in the matchup, striking out 18 times against the Twins pitchers and going just 3-for-11 with runners in scoring position. It was however Kansas City that took the lead first in the game.Maikel Garcia put the Royals on the board in the third inning, singling with the bases loaded and driving in Freddy Fermin and Vinnie Pasquantino.&nbsp; Kansas City added their final two runs in the fifth inning, Pasquantino doubling home Jonathan India who walked to open the inning, and Salvador Perez singling to score Pasquantino.In the bottom half of the fifth, Minnesota cut the lead to one scoring three runs, a big inning that started with a leadoff home run by Harrison Bader.&nbsp; Willi Castro was hit by a pitch and&nbsp;Christian Vázquez singled, and after both advanced on a groundout by Trevor Larnach, Ty France singled to drive in both runs.&nbsp; In the bottom of the sixth,&nbsp;Kody Clemens tied up the game with another solo shot leading off the inning.&nbsp;Angel Zerpa, who replaced starter Michael Wacha following the leadoff home run, John Schreiber, and Lucas Erceg combined for three scoreless innings before Daniel Lynch was brought on in the ninth inning.&nbsp; Lynch ran into trouble, walking Carlos Correa and Ryan Jeffers, getting&nbsp;Vázquez to pop out between the walks, before being replaced by Steven Cruz.&nbsp; Cruz got France to ground out, advancing Correa and Jeffers to second and third respectively, but couldn't get out of the inning giving up the walk off single to Brooks Lee, scoring Correa.&nbsp;Lynch was charged with the loss, falling to 3-1 on the season.&nbsp; Wacha in the no decision pitched five innings giving up four runs on seven hits, striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; Pasquantino led the way at the plate going 3-4 with one RBI and two runs scored.&nbsp;Kansas City and Minnesota wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.47 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against&nbsp;Bailey Ober (4-1, 3.68 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm with pregame at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals fall again to Twins in walk off fashion losing 5-4

Upon being moved out of the cleanup role and into the No. 6 spot in the Cardinals’ batting order, struggling&nbsp; third baseman Nolan Arenado was his own worst critic while wondering if his swing would ever come back to him again.

“I don't really have an answer,” Arenado said at the time of the demotion in the lineup. “Just play better, play more the way I think I'm capable of. But it's been a minute since I’ve felt like I could play the way I should. So, I don't know if it's coming back or not.”

Arenado proved himself plenty clutch though Friday night at Busch Stadium, driving a two-out triple into the left-center gap to score three runs and propel the Cardinals to a 4-3 defeat of the Arizona Diamondbacks in their series opener.&nbsp;

After Arizona took the lead in the game in the fourth inning, a solo home run by Ketel Marte, Arenado's triple came as part of a four run inning that gave St. Louis the lead for good.&nbsp; Victor Scott II singled and Lars Nootbaar walked before Masyn Winn advanced both with a sacrifice bunt.&nbsp; 

Diamondbacks starter Zach Gallen intentionally walked Brendan Donovan to load the bases, but then walked&nbsp;Iván Herrera to tie the game scoring Scott.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Alec Burleson struck out, Arenado stepped to the plate and delivered the clutch go ahead hit, driving in Nootbaar, Donovan and Herrera

Arizona did threaten against Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley in the ninth inning.&nbsp; Randal Grichuk singled, advancing later in the inning to second on runner indifference.&nbsp; With two outs,&nbsp;Gabriel Moreno homered off Helsley, driving in Grichuk to make it a one run game, but Helsley forced Corbin Carroll to pop out in the very next at bat to end the game, earning his 10th save.&nbsp;

Miles Mikolas earned the win, improving to 4-2 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up four hits and one run, striking out four and walking one.&nbsp; With just seven combined hits in the game, the Cardinals had four overall, Scott leading the way going 2-3 at the plate with a run.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Arizona continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 2.92 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Merrill Kelly (5-2, 3.26 ERA) for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:15pm, pregame will be joined at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostUpon being moved out of the cleanup role and into the No. 6 spot in the Cardinals’ batting order, struggling&nbsp; third baseman Nolan Arenado was his own worst critic while wondering if his swing would ever come back to him again.“I don't really have an answer,” Arenado said at the time of the demotion in the lineup. “Just play better, play more the way I think I'm capable of. But it's been a minute since I’ve felt like I could play the way I should. So, I don't know if it's coming back or not.”Arenado proved himself plenty clutch though Friday night at Busch Stadium, driving a two-out triple into the left-center gap to score three runs and propel the Cardinals to a 4-3 defeat of the Arizona Diamondbacks in their series opener.&nbsp;After Arizona took the lead in the game in the fourth inning, a solo home run by Ketel Marte, Arenado's triple came as part of a four run inning that gave St. Louis the lead for good.&nbsp; Victor Scott II singled and Lars Nootbaar walked before Masyn Winn advanced both with a sacrifice bunt.&nbsp; Diamondbacks starter Zach Gallen intentionally walked Brendan Donovan to load the bases, but then walked&nbsp;Iván Herrera to tie the game scoring Scott.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Alec Burleson struck out, Arenado stepped to the plate and delivered the clutch go ahead hit, driving in Nootbaar, Donovan and Herrera<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BASES CLEARING TRIPLE FOR NOLAN ARENADO!! <a href="https://t.co/dTjm4N6XP9">pic.twitter.com/dTjm4N6XP9</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1926094306466509308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Arizona did threaten against Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley in the ninth inning.&nbsp; Randal Grichuk singled, advancing later in the inning to second on runner indifference.&nbsp; With two outs,&nbsp;Gabriel Moreno homered off Helsley, driving in Grichuk to make it a one run game, but Helsley forced Corbin Carroll to pop out in the very next at bat to end the game, earning his 10th save.&nbsp;Miles Mikolas earned the win, improving to 4-2 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up four hits and one run, striking out four and walking one.&nbsp; With just seven combined hits in the game, the Cardinals had four overall, Scott leading the way going 2-3 at the plate with a run.&nbsp;St. Louis and Arizona continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew Liberatore (3-3, 2.92 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Merrill Kelly (5-2, 3.26 ERA) for the Diamondbacks.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:15pm, pregame will be joined at 1:05 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Arenado's triple fuels Cardinals 4-3 series opening win over Diamondbacks

St. Joseph's Noah Cameron put on another solid starting performance in his third major league start, but Ty France hit a two run walk off home run off Lucas Erceg to give the Minnesota Twins a 3-1 win at Target Field in the series opener on Friday night.&nbsp;

The Royals opened the scoring in the first giving Cameron the lead when Cavan Biggio doubled home Jonathan India who was hit by a pitch to open the inning.&nbsp; Cameron retired the Twins 1-2-3 in the bottom of the first, but in the second inning, Carlos Correa led off the inning tying up the game with a solo home run.&nbsp;

After the home run, Cameron locked in, but so did Twins starter Pablo López as the score remained 1-1 until the ninth inning. Neither Cameron or López allowed a runner past second base while they were on the mound. López was pulled in the sixth inning with two outs after a Michael Massey single, while Cameron pitched into the seventh, also being pulled with two outs after walking Jonah Bride.

John Schreiber replaced Cameron and pitched 1 1/3 hitless innings striking out two before being replaced by Erceg in the ninth.&nbsp; Erceg struck out Trevor Larnach to open the inning, before giving up a single to Correa and then the home run to France, dropping Erceg to 1-1 on the season.&nbsp;

Cameron, in his no decision, pitched 6 2/3 innings giving up four hits and one run, striking out eight batters, a new career high, and walking one.&nbsp; On the season, Cameron has given up six hits, two runs, has walked six batters and struck out 14, his season ERA still staying below one at 0.93.&nbsp; At the plate, Pasquantino and Massey led the Royals, both going 2-4.

Kansas City and Minnesota continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.86 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Zebby Matthews (0-1, 12.00 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph's Noah Cameron put on another solid starting performance in his third major league start, but Ty France hit a two run walk off home run off Lucas Erceg to give the Minnesota Twins a 3-1 win at Target Field in the series opener on Friday night.&nbsp;The Royals opened the scoring in the first giving Cameron the lead when Cavan Biggio doubled home Jonathan India who was hit by a pitch to open the inning.&nbsp; Cameron retired the Twins 1-2-3 in the bottom of the first, but in the second inning, Carlos Correa led off the inning tying up the game with a solo home run.&nbsp;After the home run, Cameron locked in, but so did Twins starter Pablo López as the score remained 1-1 until the ninth inning. Neither Cameron or López allowed a runner past second base while they were on the mound. López was pulled in the sixth inning with two outs after a Michael Massey single, while Cameron pitched into the seventh, also being pulled with two outs after walking Jonah Bride.John Schreiber replaced Cameron and pitched 1 1/3 hitless innings striking out two before being replaced by Erceg in the ninth.&nbsp; Erceg struck out Trevor Larnach to open the inning, before giving up a single to Correa and then the home run to France, dropping Erceg to 1-1 on the season.&nbsp;Cameron, in his no decision, pitched 6 2/3 innings giving up four hits and one run, striking out eight batters, a new career high, and walking one.&nbsp; On the season, Cameron has given up six hits, two runs, has walked six batters and struck out 14, his season ERA still staying below one at 0.93.&nbsp; At the plate, Pasquantino and Massey led the Royals, both going 2-4.Kansas City and Minnesota continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (3-4, 2.86 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Zebby Matthews (0-1, 12.00 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm, pregame coverage will begin at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Another solid performance by Noah Cameron as Royals fall 3-1

The Kansas City Royals are cutting ties with struggling outfielder Hunter Renfroe ahead of their series against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in a crucial AL Central battle.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Renfroe was slashing .182/.241/.242 with zero home runs in 35 games this season. Renfroe’s playing time dwindled significantly with the lack of production; he wasn’t hitting the ball hard (88.5 mph average exit velocity), and he wasn’t getting on base (7.4% walk rate).&nbsp;&nbsp;Renfroe signed a two-year, $13 million contract with the Royals ahead of the 2024 season, with the second year being a player option that Renfroe triggered this past offseason. The club will owe him the full $7.5 million he was making this season.

In a corresponding move, Kansas City recalled infielder/outfielder Nick Loftin from Triple-A Omaha.&nbsp; Loftin is slashing .295/.451/.468 in Triple-A this year, with four homers, 12 doubles and more walks (39) than strikeouts (22).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744426314387.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals are cutting ties with struggling outfielder Hunter Renfroe ahead of their series against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in a crucial AL Central battle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Renfroe was slashing .182/.241/.242 with zero home runs in 35 games this season. Renfroe’s playing time dwindled significantly with the lack of production; he wasn’t hitting the ball hard (88.5 mph average exit velocity), and he wasn’t getting on base (7.4% walk rate).&nbsp;&nbsp;Renfroe signed a two-year, $13 million contract with the Royals ahead of the 2024 season, with the second year being a player option that Renfroe triggered this past offseason. The club will owe him the full $7.5 million he was making this season.In a corresponding move, Kansas City recalled infielder/outfielder Nick Loftin from Triple-A Omaha.&nbsp; Loftin is slashing .295/.451/.468 in Triple-A this year, with four homers, 12 doubles and more walks (39) than strikeouts (22).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Royals designate OF Hunter Renfroe for assignment; call Nick Loftin up

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/4G3ruqO7Ib9hYemYqUKvOV?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph Post<div><iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/7Jb21HJPRSv5G4iaQST1p7?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>