The Royals are calling up their top prospect, slugger Jac Caglianone.&nbsp; ESPN's Jeff Passan was the first to report the call up, which was soon confirmed to MLB.com Royals reporter Anne Rogers.

Caglianone, the No. 10-ranked prospect in baseball and the top prospet in the Royals system according to MLB Pipeline, has been mashing in the Minors with a .322/.389/.593 slash line to go along with 15 homers and 56 RBIs in 50 games between Double-A and Triple-A.

Earlier this season, when called up to Triple A Omaha, Caglianone went on a weekend stretch where he hit five home runs in four games while the Stormchasers were on the road in Salt Lake City.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A 6-foot-5, 250-pound two-way player at the University of Florida, Caglianone transitioned to a full-time offensive player after joining the Royals organization following last July's draft. Originally a first baseman, he has spent the majority of his Triple-A games in the outfield and is expected to play there when he joins the Royals for their series that starts Tuesday in St. Louis.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1748833311334.jpeg" alt="Top Royals prospect Jac Caglianone was the club’s first-round draft selection, No. 6 overall, in 2024. Jason Hanna/Contributed photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Top Royals prospect Jac Caglianone was the club’s first-round draft selection, No. 6 overall, in 2024. Jason Hanna/Contributed photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEThe Royals are calling up their top prospect, slugger Jac Caglianone.&nbsp; ESPN's Jeff Passan was the first to report the call up, which was soon confirmed to MLB.com Royals reporter Anne Rogers.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I can confirm that the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royals</a> are calling up top prospect Jac Caglianone. He&#39;ll be with the team in St. Louis on Tuesday. The 22-year-old was drafted less than a year ago. He&#39;s been mashing in the Minors. Now he&#39;s on his way to the big leagues.<a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeffPassan</a> was first to report.&mdash; Anne Rogers (@anne__rogers) <a href="https://twitter.com/anne__rogers/status/1929362147772919900?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Caglianone, the No. 10-ranked prospect in baseball and the top prospet in the Royals system according to MLB Pipeline, has been mashing in the Minors with a .322/.389/.593 slash line to go along with 15 homers and 56 RBIs in 50 games between Double-A and Triple-A.Earlier this season, when called up to Triple A Omaha, Caglianone went on a weekend stretch where he hit five home runs in four games while the Stormchasers were on the road in Salt Lake City.&nbsp;&nbsp;A 6-foot-5, 250-pound two-way player at the University of Florida, Caglianone transitioned to a full-time offensive player after joining the Royals organization following last July's draft. Originally a first baseman, he has spent the majority of his Triple-A games in the outfield and is expected to play there when he joins the Royals for their series that starts Tuesday in St. Louis.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas City Royals calling up top prospect Jac Caglianone

On Northwest Missouri State University night at the ballpark, it was a Northwest Missouri State University pitcher who shut down the Nevada Griffons as the St. Joseph Mustangs opened MINK league play with an 11-1 run rule victory in seven innings.&nbsp;

Northwest Missouri State University pitcher and Bishop LeBlond alum Jaren Guck took the mound and pitched four innings, striking out 10 Griffons on the night, giving up just the one run and three hits, while walking one, earning his first win of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Caden Carter pitched the final three innings, striking out six, walking two and giving up two hits.&nbsp;

The Mustangs did fall behind in the first inning, as the Griffons struck for their one run early,&nbsp;Griffin DuVall singling home&nbsp;Joe Adams.&nbsp; But, St. Joseph quickly took the lead back, thanks to a four run second inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tyler Gundelfinger reached first on a throwing error, scoring another Northwest product, catcher Parker Griffith, and advancing Benton alum Chris Coy to third base.&nbsp; Coy scored on a single by Lafayette alum Jayden Little, before Savannah alum&nbsp;Truman Bodenhausen reached first on a fielders choice, scoring&nbsp;Gundelfinger.&nbsp; Trevor McCollum's sacrifice fly to right field later in the inning brought Bodenhausen home.&nbsp;

Two more runs were added in the fourth inning.&nbsp; Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart singled and Jack Mosh reached on an error before Griffith was walked to load the bases.&nbsp; With the bases loaded, Coy was hit by a pitch, bringing Luikart home to score.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Gundelfinger scored Mosh.&nbsp; Another two runs were added in the sixth inning on a sacrifice fly by Gundelfinger, as Luikart and Mosh both scored.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A three run seventh inning was the final blow, and secured the walk off in the run rule win.&nbsp; With the bases loaded, Mosh walked to bring home Darius Freeman.&nbsp; A single from Griffith drove in McCollum before Coy hit a walk off sacrifice fly to right field, scoring Luikart.&nbsp;

At the plate, Griffith and Luikart led the way, both going 2-for-3, Griffith with one RBI and one run scored, walking twice while Luikart scored three runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gundelfinger was 0-for-1 but drove in four runs, and walked once.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Mustangs are now off until Wednesday, June 4th, when they again host the KC Monarchs.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:30pm with gates opening at 5:15 at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; It will be&nbsp;Baseball and Babies Night with activities for young families throughout the stadium, courtesy of Parents as Teachers. There will also be a Baby Crawling Race.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748748828207.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State pitcher Jaren Guck got the start for the St. Joseph Mustangs on Northwest Missouri State University Night and struck out 10 batters over four innings in and 11-1 run rule victory for the Mustangs over the Nevada Griffons/ Photo courtesy of the Mustangs on X" />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State pitcher Jaren Guck got the start for the St. Joseph Mustangs on Northwest Missouri State University Night and struck out 10 batters over four innings in and 11-1 run rule victory for the Mustangs over the Nevada Griffons/ Photo courtesy of the Mustangs on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEOn Northwest Missouri State University night at the ballpark, it was a Northwest Missouri State University pitcher who shut down the Nevada Griffons as the St. Joseph Mustangs opened MINK league play with an 11-1 run rule victory in seven innings.&nbsp;Northwest Missouri State University pitcher and Bishop LeBlond alum Jaren Guck took the mound and pitched four innings, striking out 10 Griffons on the night, giving up just the one run and three hits, while walking one, earning his first win of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Caden Carter pitched the final three innings, striking out six, walking two and giving up two hits.&nbsp;The Mustangs did fall behind in the first inning, as the Griffons struck for their one run early,&nbsp;Griffin DuVall singling home&nbsp;Joe Adams.&nbsp; But, St. Joseph quickly took the lead back, thanks to a four run second inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tyler Gundelfinger reached first on a throwing error, scoring another Northwest product, catcher Parker Griffith, and advancing Benton alum Chris Coy to third base.&nbsp; Coy scored on a single by Lafayette alum Jayden Little, before Savannah alum&nbsp;Truman Bodenhausen reached first on a fielders choice, scoring&nbsp;Gundelfinger.&nbsp; Trevor McCollum's sacrifice fly to right field later in the inning brought Bodenhausen home.&nbsp;Two more runs were added in the fourth inning.&nbsp; Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart singled and Jack Mosh reached on an error before Griffith was walked to load the bases.&nbsp; With the bases loaded, Coy was hit by a pitch, bringing Luikart home to score.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Gundelfinger scored Mosh.&nbsp; Another two runs were added in the sixth inning on a sacrifice fly by Gundelfinger, as Luikart and Mosh both scored.&nbsp;&nbsp;A three run seventh inning was the final blow, and secured the walk off in the run rule win.&nbsp; With the bases loaded, Mosh walked to bring home Darius Freeman.&nbsp; A single from Griffith drove in McCollum before Coy hit a walk off sacrifice fly to right field, scoring Luikart.&nbsp;At the plate, Griffith and Luikart led the way, both going 2-for-3, Griffith with one RBI and one run scored, walking twice while Luikart scored three runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gundelfinger was 0-for-1 but drove in four runs, and walked once.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mustangs are now off until Wednesday, June 4th, when they again host the KC Monarchs.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:30pm with gates opening at 5:15 at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; It will be&nbsp;Baseball and Babies Night with activities for young families throughout the stadium, courtesy of Parents as Teachers. There will also be a Baby Crawling Race.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mustangs win MINK league opener with 11-1 run rule victory over Nevada

The St. Louis Cardinals bounced back from a performance on Friday where they managed just one run and five hits against the Texas Rangers, getting a 2-0 shutout win on Saturday afternoon at Globe Life Field.&nbsp;

Prior to the game,&nbsp;The Cardinals placed Jordan Walker on the 10-day injured list with left wrist inflammation, retroactive to Thursday.&nbsp;Walker had found his offensive stroke of late, batting .300 in his last 14 games played with a .792 OPS and 11 RBIs.&nbsp; &nbsp;In a corresponding move, the Cardinals selected outfielder Ryan Vilade from Triple-A Memphis. Vilade, was expected to arrive in the middle of Saturday’s game, was batting .280 with five home runs and 31 RBIs at Memphis.&nbsp; Vilade played in the big leagues in 2021 with Colorado and in 2024 with Detroit.

The Cardinals made a couple of pitching moves before Saturday’s game as well, optioning righty Gordon Graceffo to Memphis and recalling right-hander Roddery Muñoz. Marmol said Graceffo will remain in a relief role at Memphis with the idea of him being a multi-inning weapon out of the bullpen.

The Cardinals started their scoring in the second inning.&nbsp; Willson Contreras walked to open the inning and advanced to second on a wild pitch, before moving to third on a ground out by&nbsp;Iván Herrera.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by Nolan Arenado drove in Contreras for the score.&nbsp; In the fourth inning, St. Louis scored their second run as Masyn Winn doubled, and was driven in on a ground rule double by Contreras.&nbsp;

Sonny Gray improved to 6-1 on the season with an ace-worthy, seven inning, shutout performance. He retired nine straight at one point, including striking out the side in the third inning. In the fifth, Gray found himself in a jam as the Rangers had two baserunners reach, but he ended that threat by getting Kyle Higashioka to fly out to center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gray faced traffic again in the seventh, giving up a one-out single to Alejandro Osuna, but he finished his outing by striking out Jake Burger and getting Sam Haggerty to ground out. The strikeout of Burger was the 1,800th for Gray, who is one of just 10 active players to reach that mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Phil Maton pitched the eighth inning, walking one, but giving up no hits, before Ryan Helsley came on for the ninth, also giving up no hits and striking out two for his 13th save.&nbsp; At the plate, Winn led the way going 2-for-4 with a run scored.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Texas wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Erick Fedde (3-4, 3.90 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals in the finale against&nbsp;Jacob deGrom (4-2, 2.42 ERA) for the Rangers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:05pm with pregame being joined at 11:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

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

By MATT PIKEThe St. Louis Cardinals bounced back from a performance on Friday where they managed just one run and five hits against the Texas Rangers, getting a 2-0 shutout win on Saturday afternoon at Globe Life Field.&nbsp;Prior to the game,&nbsp;The Cardinals placed Jordan Walker on the 10-day injured list with left wrist inflammation, retroactive to Thursday.&nbsp;Walker had found his offensive stroke of late, batting .300 in his last 14 games played with a .792 OPS and 11 RBIs.&nbsp; &nbsp;In a corresponding move, the Cardinals selected outfielder Ryan Vilade from Triple-A Memphis. Vilade, was expected to arrive in the middle of Saturday’s game, was batting .280 with five home runs and 31 RBIs at Memphis.&nbsp; Vilade played in the big leagues in 2021 with Colorado and in 2024 with Detroit.The Cardinals made a couple of pitching moves before Saturday’s game as well, optioning righty Gordon Graceffo to Memphis and recalling right-hander Roddery Muñoz. Marmol said Graceffo will remain in a relief role at Memphis with the idea of him being a multi-inning weapon out of the bullpen.The Cardinals started their scoring in the second inning.&nbsp; Willson Contreras walked to open the inning and advanced to second on a wild pitch, before moving to third on a ground out by&nbsp;Iván Herrera.&nbsp; A sacrifice fly by Nolan Arenado drove in Contreras for the score.&nbsp; In the fourth inning, St. Louis scored their second run as Masyn Winn doubled, and was driven in on a ground rule double by Contreras.&nbsp;Sonny Gray improved to 6-1 on the season with an ace-worthy, seven inning, shutout performance. He retired nine straight at one point, including striking out the side in the third inning. In the fifth, Gray found himself in a jam as the Rangers had two baserunners reach, but he ended that threat by getting Kyle Higashioka to fly out to center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gray faced traffic again in the seventh, giving up a one-out single to Alejandro Osuna, but he finished his outing by striking out Jake Burger and getting Sam Haggerty to ground out. The strikeout of Burger was the 1,800th for Gray, who is one of just 10 active players to reach that mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;Phil Maton pitched the eighth inning, walking one, but giving up no hits, before Ryan Helsley came on for the ninth, also giving up no hits and striking out two for his 13th save.&nbsp; At the plate, Winn led the way going 2-for-4 with a run scored.&nbsp;St. Louis and Texas wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Erick Fedde (3-4, 3.90 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals in the finale against&nbsp;Jacob deGrom (4-2, 2.42 ERA) for the Rangers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 12:05pm with pregame being joined at 11:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cardinals bounce back from poor performance with 2-0 shutout win 

A pitchers duel between the Kansas City Royals number four starter, Michael Wacha, and last years American League Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, the Detroit Tigers ace, ended with a 1-0 win for the Royals at Kauffman Stadium on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;

The day started out with the Royals celebrating a World Series winner, as former third baseman Mike Moustakas retired as a Kansas City Royal during a ceremony before the game.&nbsp; Moustakas slashed .251/.306/.430 with 139 home runs over parts of eight seasons as a Royal. His 38 home runs in 2017 set a single-season club record at the time until Jorge Soler hit 48 in 2019.&nbsp; Moustakas was traded to the Brewers in 2018, and would go on to play for the Reds, Rockies and Angels. The three-time All-Star finished his 13-year career with 215 home runs.

The game flew by, lasting just two hours, as both pitchers were on top of their game once things got underway.&nbsp; Wacha, carried a no hitter into the seventh inning, only allowing one baserunner walking Gleyber Torres in the fourth inning, while Skubal gave up just two hits, a single to Freddy Fermin in the third and a single to Nick Loftin in the fifth, striking out seven batters.&nbsp; In the seventh, Wacha gave a up a single to Colt Keith, but retired the next two batters to get out of the inning.&nbsp;

The Royals struck in the eighth inning, getting the only hit on the day between both teams with a runner in scoring position.&nbsp; After Loftin doubled off reliever&nbsp;Beau Brieske, a single from Vinnie Pasquantino into left field, bringing home Loftin who beat the offline throw for the lone score of the game, setting Kansas City up to bring on&nbsp;Carlos Estévez for the save.&nbsp;

Estévez retired the first two batters he faced before giving up a single, again to Keith, but then forced Riley Greene to groundout to end the game, earning his 16th save.&nbsp; &nbsp;With his 16th save of the season, Estévez tied Royals Hall of Famer Jeff Montgomery's franchise record for saves by the end of May.

John Schreiber earned the win in relief, improving to 2-2 on the season, striking out two and walking one in the eighth inning.&nbsp; Wacha struck out six batters through his seven innings of work, walking one and giving up one hit.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last time Wacha threw seven innings of one-hit ball was May 15, 2023 with the Padres, when he took a no-hitter into the 8th inning, against the Royals, before Michael Massey led off the inning with a single to prompt a pitching change.

On a day where both teams combined for just six hits, it was Loftin who led at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored.&nbsp; Loftin also made an impressive diving catch in the outfield, after Wacha had given up the single to Keith, to prevent another hit.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Detroit wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.45 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against&nbsp;Keider Montero (2-1, 4.54 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm, with pregame coverage beginning at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKEA pitchers duel between the Kansas City Royals number four starter, Michael Wacha, and last years American League Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, the Detroit Tigers ace, ended with a 1-0 win for the Royals at Kauffman Stadium on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;The day started out with the Royals celebrating a World Series winner, as former third baseman Mike Moustakas retired as a Kansas City Royal during a ceremony before the game.&nbsp; Moustakas slashed .251/.306/.430 with 139 home runs over parts of eight seasons as a Royal. His 38 home runs in 2017 set a single-season club record at the time until Jorge Soler hit 48 in 2019.&nbsp; Moustakas was traded to the Brewers in 2018, and would go on to play for the Reds, Rockies and Angels. The three-time All-Star finished his 13-year career with 215 home runs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748746284305.jpeg" alt="Former Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas retired as a Royal on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X" />
 <figcaption>Former Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas retired as a Royal on Saturday/ Photo courtesy of the Royals on X</figcaption>
 </figure>The game flew by, lasting just two hours, as both pitchers were on top of their game once things got underway.&nbsp; Wacha, carried a no hitter into the seventh inning, only allowing one baserunner walking Gleyber Torres in the fourth inning, while Skubal gave up just two hits, a single to Freddy Fermin in the third and a single to Nick Loftin in the fifth, striking out seven batters.&nbsp; In the seventh, Wacha gave a up a single to Colt Keith, but retired the next two batters to get out of the inning.&nbsp;The Royals struck in the eighth inning, getting the only hit on the day between both teams with a runner in scoring position.&nbsp; After Loftin doubled off reliever&nbsp;Beau Brieske, a single from Vinnie Pasquantino into left field, bringing home Loftin who beat the offline throw for the lone score of the game, setting Kansas City up to bring on&nbsp;Carlos Estévez for the save.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vinnie. Comes. Through! <a href="https://t.co/veRdXXHCjj">pic.twitter.com/veRdXXHCjj</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1928938379736953261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Estévez retired the first two batters he faced before giving up a single, again to Keith, but then forced Riley Greene to groundout to end the game, earning his 16th save.&nbsp; &nbsp;With his 16th save of the season, Estévez tied Royals Hall of Famer Jeff Montgomery's franchise record for saves by the end of May.John Schreiber earned the win in relief, improving to 2-2 on the season, striking out two and walking one in the eighth inning.&nbsp; Wacha struck out six batters through his seven innings of work, walking one and giving up one hit.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last time Wacha threw seven innings of one-hit ball was May 15, 2023 with the Padres, when he took a no-hitter into the 8th inning, against the Royals, before Michael Massey led off the inning with a single to prompt a pitching change.On a day where both teams combined for just six hits, it was Loftin who led at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored.&nbsp; Loftin also made an impressive diving catch in the outfield, after Wacha had given up the single to Keith, to prevent another hit.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Nick outta nowhere! <a href="https://t.co/x1eoQRQFHQ">pic.twitter.com/x1eoQRQFHQ</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1928933072050815192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas City and Detroit wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Kris Bubic (5-2, 1.45 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals in the finale against&nbsp;Keider Montero (2-1, 4.54 ERA) for the Tigers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm, with pregame coverage beginning at 12:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wacha's no hit bid broken up in seventh as Royals win pitchers duel 1-0

The St. Joseph Mustangs, or as they were known on Friday night the St. Joseph Tenderloins, remained undefeated to open the season with a 6-5 win over the KC Monarchs on Noah Cameron night at Phil Welch Stadium.

Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith gave the Mustangs the lead in the eighth inning on a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart.&nbsp; Griffith was 1-for-3 with two RBI's in the win.&nbsp;

There was no box score available for this game.&nbsp;

The Mustangs are back in action tomorrow, beginning MINK league play as they take on the Nevada Griffons at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm, gates at the stadium open at 5:30.

By MATT PIKEThe St. Joseph Mustangs, or as they were known on Friday night the St. Joseph Tenderloins, remained undefeated to open the season with a 6-5 win over the KC Monarchs on Noah Cameron night at Phil Welch Stadium.Northwest Missouri State's Parker Griffith gave the Mustangs the lead in the eighth inning on a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart.&nbsp; Griffith was 1-for-3 with two RBI's in the win.&nbsp;There was no box score available for this game.&nbsp;The Mustangs are back in action tomorrow, beginning MINK league play as they take on the Nevada Griffons at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm, gates at the stadium open at 5:30.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mustangs stay undefeated to open season with 6-5 win over Monarchs

The Rangers offense exploded for 15 hits against the St. Louis Cardinals, finally providing run support for Texas’ electric rotation in an 11-1 victory at Globe Life Field on Friday night. 

They scored more runs in the second inning against Cardinals starter Matthew Liberatore (4) than in the entire three-game series loss against the Blue Jays (3) earlier this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;The most notable Rangers hits likely belonged to Marcus Semien, who provided quite the spark from the bottom of the lineup.

Josh Jung opened the scoring in the first for the Rangers with a single, driving in&nbsp;Sam Haggerty, before the big four run second inning.&nbsp; Haggerty's triple in the second drove in two runs, scoring&nbsp;Kyle Higashioka and Semien, before he scored on a two run home run by Wyatt Langford, giving Texas a 5-0 lead in just two innings off Liberatore.&nbsp;

Liberatore did get through the next three innings scoreless, before being replaced in the sixth inning by&nbsp;Gordon Graceffo, where the Rangers added four more runs.&nbsp; Semien singled driving in Jake Burger for the first run of the frame, then with one out Haggerty drove in his third run of the game scoring&nbsp;Higashioka.&nbsp; With two outs, Jung singled, driving in his second and third runs of the game, bringing home Semien and Haggerty for a 9-0 Rangers lead.&nbsp;

Semien's two run home run in the bottom of the seventh were the final runs for Texas, scoring himself and&nbsp;Higashioka.&nbsp; St. Louis finally found their way onto the scoreboard in the eighth inning, Lars Nootbaar doubling home Victor Scott.

With the loss, Liberatore fell to 3-4 on the season, pitching five innings and giving up five runs, four earned, on seven hits while striking out five and walking one.&nbsp; The Cardinals managed just five hits in the loss, with five different players getting one hit each.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Texas continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (5-1, 4.06 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Patrick Corbin (3-3, 3.75 ERA) for the Rangers. First pitch is at 3:05pm, with pregame being joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

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

By MATT PIKEThe Rangers offense exploded for 15 hits against the St. Louis Cardinals, finally providing run support for Texas’ electric rotation in an 11-1 victory at Globe Life Field on Friday night. They scored more runs in the second inning against Cardinals starter Matthew Liberatore (4) than in the entire three-game series loss against the Blue Jays (3) earlier this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;The most notable Rangers hits likely belonged to Marcus Semien, who provided quite the spark from the bottom of the lineup.Josh Jung opened the scoring in the first for the Rangers with a single, driving in&nbsp;Sam Haggerty, before the big four run second inning.&nbsp; Haggerty's triple in the second drove in two runs, scoring&nbsp;Kyle Higashioka and Semien, before he scored on a two run home run by Wyatt Langford, giving Texas a 5-0 lead in just two innings off Liberatore.&nbsp;Liberatore did get through the next three innings scoreless, before being replaced in the sixth inning by&nbsp;Gordon Graceffo, where the Rangers added four more runs.&nbsp; Semien singled driving in Jake Burger for the first run of the frame, then with one out Haggerty drove in his third run of the game scoring&nbsp;Higashioka.&nbsp; With two outs, Jung singled, driving in his second and third runs of the game, bringing home Semien and Haggerty for a 9-0 Rangers lead.&nbsp;Semien's two run home run in the bottom of the seventh were the final runs for Texas, scoring himself and&nbsp;Higashioka.&nbsp; St. Louis finally found their way onto the scoreboard in the eighth inning, Lars Nootbaar doubling home Victor Scott.With the loss, Liberatore fell to 3-4 on the season, pitching five innings and giving up five runs, four earned, on seven hits while striking out five and walking one.&nbsp; The Cardinals managed just five hits in the loss, with five different players getting one hit each.&nbsp;St. Louis and Texas continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (5-1, 4.06 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Patrick Corbin (3-3, 3.75 ERA) for the Rangers. First pitch is at 3:05pm, with pregame being joined at 2:55 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rangers offense erupts in 11-1 blowout over Cardinals

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).

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;

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;