MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa homered back-to-back for the Minnesota Twins, who routed the Kansas City Royals 7-1. 

Buxton and Correa teed off on Royals veteran right-hander Zack Greinke in the fourth inning. Twins starter Tyler Mahle allowed one run, which was a solo homer by Vinnie Pasquantino in the top of the fourth. Mahle exited after four innings and 66 pitches with right posterior elbow soreness. 

Reliever Brock Stewart got the win with two scoreless innings. The 39-year-old Greinke fell to 0-4 on the season and his ERA jumped to 6.10 after allowing seven runs on eight hits over 3 2/3 innings.

The Royals take on the Twins again Friday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa homered back-to-back for the Minnesota Twins, who routed the Kansas City Royals 7-1. Buxton and Correa teed off on Royals veteran right-hander Zack Greinke in the fourth inning. Twins starter Tyler Mahle allowed one run, which was a solo homer by Vinnie Pasquantino in the top of the fourth. Mahle exited after four innings and 66 pitches with right posterior elbow soreness. Reliever Brock Stewart got the win with two scoreless innings. The 39-year-old Greinke fell to 0-4 on the season and his ERA jumped to 6.10 after allowing seven runs on eight hits over 3 2/3 innings.The Royals take on the Twins again Friday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Buxton, Correa go long in Twins' rout of Royals; Greinke 0-4

St. Joseph Central senior, thrower, record holder and three-time state medalist Makenzie Garr announced her verbal commitment to Missouri Western State University track and field on April 10.

She made that commitment official Thursday, signing her national letter of intent to the Griffons surrounded by friends and family at Central High School.

"I thought about it and it's just nice to stay home and become a Griffon," Garr said.

Garr, a two-sport standout at Central, currently holds both school records in girls' shot put (44 feet-7 inches) and girls' discus (130 feet-2.5 inches).

Her shot put record, broken just this spring, ranks No. 1 in Missouri in Class 5 and No. 21 in the nation overall.

Garr medaled third at state track in 2021 in shot put after the 2020 season was wiped away due to COVID-19.

In 2022, as a junior, Garr medaled fourth at state in both shot put and discus.

With her senior season coming to a close this May, Garr has her sights set on even more lofty achievements.

"I feel like my season is so short, because things are going fast," she said. "My goal is to get a top distance at sectionals and head to state again. I just need to practice more and once I get to state, I just need to be calm and throw harder. So, I just want to be calm and throw it out there."

Garr, an all-district and all-city pitcher for Central softball also, is the younger sister of Jordan Garr.

Jordan, a state champion in shot put, graduated from Central in 2017 and became a three-time all-American shot put thrower at Missouri Western before transferring to Missouri Southern in Joplin last year.

Garr became an all-American shot put thrower again this past March with Southern at the NCAA Indoor national championships in Virginia, where he placed fourth nationally.

"He's really skilled in this sport," Makenzie said of her brother. "He taught me a lot of things about the coaches and all of that. So, I'm comfortable following in his footsteps and all of that."

Garr has made waves her entire varsity career, and this season is no exception. She competed at the KU Relays on April 14 against elite talent from all across the region. At that event, Garr placed third in shot put with a throw of 43 feet-5 inches.

"There was a lot of people there from out of state," Garr said. "I had never seen them before. So, I feel like I just needed to be calm and just throw it and I did - enough to make the top eight."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682625484483.jpeg" alt="Makenzie Garr (center) signs her letter of intent for Missouri Western track and field Thursday with mother Angela (left) and brother Jordan (right) at her side. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Makenzie Garr (center) signs her letter of intent for Missouri Western track and field Thursday with mother Angela (left) and brother Jordan (right) at her side. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Central senior, thrower, record holder and three-time state medalist Makenzie Garr announced her verbal commitment to Missouri Western State University track and field on April 10.She made that commitment official Thursday, signing her national letter of intent to the Griffons surrounded by friends and family at Central High School."I thought about it and it's just nice to stay home and become a Griffon," Garr said.Garr, a two-sport standout at Central, currently holds both school records in girls' shot put (44 feet-7 inches) and girls' discus (130 feet-2.5 inches).Her shot put record, broken just this spring, ranks No. 1 in Missouri in Class 5 and No. 21 in the nation overall.Garr medaled third at state track in 2021 in shot put after the 2020 season was wiped away due to COVID-19.In 2022, as a junior, Garr medaled fourth at state in both shot put and discus.With her senior season coming to a close this May, Garr has her sights set on even more lofty achievements."I feel like my season is so short, because things are going fast," she said. "My goal is to get a top distance at sectionals and head to state again. I just need to practice more and once I get to state, I just need to be calm and throw harder. So, I just want to be calm and throw it out there."Garr, an all-district and all-city pitcher for Central softball also, is the younger sister of Jordan Garr.Jordan, a state champion in shot put, graduated from Central in 2017 and became a three-time all-American shot put thrower at Missouri Western before transferring to Missouri Southern in Joplin last year.Garr became an all-American shot put thrower again this past March with Southern at the NCAA Indoor national championships in Virginia, where he placed fourth nationally."He's really skilled in this sport," Makenzie said of her brother. "He taught me a lot of things about the coaches and all of that. So, I'm comfortable following in his footsteps and all of that."Garr has made waves her entire varsity career, and this season is no exception. She competed at the KU Relays on April 14 against elite talent from all across the region. At that event, Garr placed third in shot put with a throw of 43 feet-5 inches."There was a lot of people there from out of state," Garr said. "I had never seen them before. So, I feel like I just needed to be calm and just throw it and I did - enough to make the top eight."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682628905567.jpeg" alt="Makenzie Garr took first place in both shot put and discus in the St. Joseph city track meet in 2023. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Makenzie Garr took first place in both shot put and discus in the St. Joseph city track meet in 2023. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634090251888.jpeg" alt="Garr had 185 total strikeouts as a pitcher for Central's softball team this past fall. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Garr had 185 total strikeouts as a pitcher for Central's softball team this past fall. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Thrower, state medalist and Central record holder Makenzie Garr signs for MWSU track

The Missouri Western women’s basketball team announced this month that they’re planning a 10-day trip to Greece this summer.

The Griffons will face international competition, and have the opportunity for additional practices to prepare for the upcoming season - practices they wouldn't have otherwise.

Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker says this time together will be especially important for evaluating any new players on the team.

"It gives us and the staff a chance to see the new kids," Whitaker told KFEQ Radio. "Start mixing things together and figuring it out. Every year is a bit different and it's always a process for a coaching staff to figure out exactly what you have and how to best utilize it."

The Griffons will be in Greece from August 14-24. They'll have 10 days of practice together in St. Joseph before they depart. The team will then play three games against international teams while abroad.

The Griffons will spend time in Athens and the island Santorini.&nbsp;Whitaker says this trip will cover many different places.

"Athens will be our primary location," she said, "and then we'll go to different islands off the coast of Athens and we'll fly to Santorini, and I think that's on everyone's bucket list - to see Santorini and spend some time there."

Missouri Western athletics is close to their fundraising goal of $85,000 to make the trip possible. Whitaker says they have about $5,000 still to go.

Whitaker says she took an international trip to Europe as a player at Texas Tech, and then again as the head coach at UMKC and Tech.

"I took my UMKC team to Costa Rica, I took our Texas Tech team to Portugal. It's always been a part of what I got to do as a player, and then leading programs, we've tried hard to make that happen."

The NCAA allows college basketball teams to take an international trip like this once every four years. The Missouri Western men's basketball team took a trip to Costa Rica last August where they went 3-0 against international competition.

Whitaker looks forward to a team-building experience similar to what the Griffon men experienced, and similar to what's she's experienced before as a player and coach at previous stops.

"The more your team plays together, the more chemistry they have on the floor," she said. "The more time they spend together off the floor, the more chemistry they build off the floor. All of those things play a really key role in success."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674798068113.png" alt="Stock photo by Paul Smith." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Paul Smith.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western women’s basketball team announced this month that they’re planning a 10-day trip to Greece this summer.The Griffons will face international competition, and have the opportunity for additional practices to prepare for the upcoming season - practices they wouldn't have otherwise.Missouri Western women's basketball coach Candi Whitaker says this time together will be especially important for evaluating any new players on the team."It gives us and the staff a chance to see the new kids," Whitaker told KFEQ Radio. "Start mixing things together and figuring it out. Every year is a bit different and it's always a process for a coaching staff to figure out exactly what you have and how to best utilize it."The Griffons will be in Greece from August 14-24. They'll have 10 days of practice together in St. Joseph before they depart. The team will then play three games against international teams while abroad.The Griffons will spend time in Athens and the island Santorini.&nbsp;Whitaker says this trip will cover many different places."Athens will be our primary location," she said, "and then we'll go to different islands off the coast of Athens and we'll fly to Santorini, and I think that's on everyone's bucket list - to see Santorini and spend some time there."Missouri Western athletics is close to their fundraising goal of $85,000 to make the trip possible. Whitaker says they have about $5,000 still to go.Whitaker says she took an international trip to Europe as a player at Texas Tech, and then again as the head coach at UMKC and Tech."I took my UMKC team to Costa Rica, I took our Texas Tech team to Portugal. It's always been a part of what I got to do as a player, and then leading programs, we've tried hard to make that happen."The NCAA allows college basketball teams to take an international trip like this once every four years. The Missouri Western men's basketball team took a trip to Costa Rica last August where they went 3-0 against international competition.Whitaker looks forward to a team-building experience similar to what the Griffon men experienced, and similar to what's she's experienced before as a player and coach at previous stops."The more your team plays together, the more chemistry they have on the floor," she said. "The more time they spend together off the floor, the more chemistry they build off the floor. All of those things play a really key role in success."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU women's basketball planning for 10-day trip to Greece in August

PHOENIX (AP) — Zac Gallen struck out 12 over 6 1/3 innings and stretched his scoreless streak to 28 innings, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks over the Kansas City Royals 2-0. 

The D-backs took two of three games from the Royals and finished 3-4 on their homestand. Gallen (4-1) had another stellar outing, giving up just four hits and walking none. 

The right-hander — who finished fifth in the NL Cy Young Award voting last season — hasn’t given up a run since April 4th against San Diego.

The Royals next take on the Twins Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

PHOENIX (AP) — Zac Gallen struck out 12 over 6 1/3 innings and stretched his scoreless streak to 28 innings, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks over the Kansas City Royals 2-0. The D-backs took two of three games from the Royals and finished 3-4 on their homestand. Gallen (4-1) had another stellar outing, giving up just four hits and walking none. The right-hander — who finished fifth in the NL Cy Young Award voting last season — hasn’t given up a run since April 4th against San Diego.The Royals next take on the Twins Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Gallen's scoreless streak at 28 innings, D-backs top Royals

Baseball Lafayette 4 Chillicothe 2 St. Joseph Christian 8 Stewartsville-Osborn 5 East Buchanan 12 Hamilton 0 Kirksville 7 Savannah 3 North Platte 10 Mid-Buchanan 5 South Holt 11 Nodaway Valley 10

Girls’ soccer Fort Osage 2 St. Joseph Central 1 Mid-Buchanan 2 Lincoln College Prep 1

Boys’ tennis Savannah 5 Maryville 4. The Savages clinch at least a share of the MEC Crown.

Track and field The Bishop LeBlond Invitational took place Wednesday with multiple area schools competing. The East Buchanan boys finished second in team standings with 129 points.

Looking at some individual winners, starting on the girls’ side, Savannah’s Danica Rodriguez took first in girls’ high jump (1.55 meters). East Buchanan’s Brooklyn Johnson won the girls' shot put (11.23 meters).

 On the boys’ side,&nbsp; East Buchanan’s Aidan Hensley won the boys’ 1600 meter run (4:48.64). East Buchanan’s Seth Spencer won the boys’ 100 meter hurdles (17.86) and 300 meter hurdles (44.22). The East Buchanan boys also took first in the 4x800 meter relay (8:30.81).

East Buchanan’s Trey Johnson won the boys’ long jump (5.96 meters) and boys’ javelin (52.02 meters). Bishop LeBlond’s David Arberer won boys’ triple jump (11.48 meters).&nbsp;

Full results from the LeBlond Invitational <a href="https://mo.milesplit.com/meets/531174-bishop-leblond-invitational-2023/results/913775?type=raw#.ZEkIvXbMK3A">can be found here</a>.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBaseball Lafayette 4 Chillicothe 2 St. Joseph Christian 8 Stewartsville-Osborn 5 East Buchanan 12 Hamilton 0 Kirksville 7 Savannah 3 North Platte 10 Mid-Buchanan 5 South Holt 11 Nodaway Valley 10Girls’ soccer Fort Osage 2 St. Joseph Central 1 Mid-Buchanan 2 Lincoln College Prep 1Boys’ tennis Savannah 5 Maryville 4. The Savages clinch at least a share of the MEC Crown.Track and field The Bishop LeBlond Invitational took place Wednesday with multiple area schools competing. The East Buchanan boys finished second in team standings with 129 points.Looking at some individual winners, starting on the girls’ side, Savannah’s Danica Rodriguez took first in girls’ high jump (1.55 meters). East Buchanan’s Brooklyn Johnson won the girls' shot put (11.23 meters). On the boys’ side,&nbsp; East Buchanan’s Aidan Hensley won the boys’ 1600 meter run (4:48.64). East Buchanan’s Seth Spencer won the boys’ 100 meter hurdles (17.86) and 300 meter hurdles (44.22). The East Buchanan boys also took first in the 4x800 meter relay (8:30.81).East Buchanan’s Trey Johnson won the boys’ long jump (5.96 meters) and boys’ javelin (52.02 meters). Bishop LeBlond’s David Arberer won boys’ triple jump (11.48 meters).&nbsp;Full results from the LeBlond Invitational <a href="https://mo.milesplit.com/meets/531174-bishop-leblond-invitational-2023/results/913775?type=raw#.ZEkIvXbMK3A">can be found here</a>.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - April 25, 2023

PHOENIX (AP) — Scott Barlow got Christian Walker to hit into a game-ending groundout with runners on second and third, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-4 for just their second win in 11 games. 

Brady Singer rebounded from three poor starts and the Royals tied their season high with 14 hits. Every starter except Franmil Reyes had at least one hit for the Royals. 

Kansas City is 6-18, including 5-6 on the road but just 1-12 at Kauffman Stadium. Corbin Carroll was a home run shy of the cycle for Arizona and stole two bases.

The Royals take on the Diamondbacks again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 2:40. Coverage begins at 2:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

PHOENIX (AP) — Scott Barlow got Christian Walker to hit into a game-ending groundout with runners on second and third, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-4 for just their second win in 11 games. Brady Singer rebounded from three poor starts and the Royals tied their season high with 14 hits. Every starter except Franmil Reyes had at least one hit for the Royals. Kansas City is 6-18, including 5-6 on the road but just 1-12 at Kauffman Stadium. Corbin Carroll was a home run shy of the cycle for Arizona and stole two bases.The Royals take on the Diamondbacks again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 2:40. Coverage begins at 2:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Barlow strands 2 in 9th, Royals beat D-backs 5-4 for 6th win

Both the Northwest Missouri State men’s and women’s tennis teams are back in the NCAA tournament and are hosting Central Region brackets, while the Missouri Western women’s tennis team is back in the big dance for a second straight season.

The Bearcat men are in the tournament for a third straight year, earning the No. 1 seed in the Central Region. Northwest will host Southeastern Oklahoma State on Saturday at 1 p.m.

The Northwest women also grabbed the top seed in the Central Region, and they have a first-round bye in their bracket. The Bearcat women await the winner of No. 5 seed Missouri Western and No. 4 seed Central Oklahoma. The Griffons and Bronchos face off in the first round on Monday at 1 p.m in Maryville.

Missouri Western women’s tennis has made the NCAA tournament in back-to-back seasons for the first time in program history. The Northwest women’s team is hosting a regional for the first time since 2008.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682423042193.png" alt="Photo by MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Photo by MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBoth the Northwest Missouri State men’s and women’s tennis teams are back in the NCAA tournament and are hosting Central Region brackets, while the Missouri Western women’s tennis team is back in the big dance for a second straight season.The Bearcat men are in the tournament for a third straight year, earning the No. 1 seed in the Central Region. Northwest will host Southeastern Oklahoma State on Saturday at 1 p.m.The Northwest women also grabbed the top seed in the Central Region, and they have a first-round bye in their bracket. The Bearcat women await the winner of No. 5 seed Missouri Western and No. 4 seed Central Oklahoma. The Griffons and Bronchos face off in the first round on Monday at 1 p.m in Maryville.Missouri Western women’s tennis has made the NCAA tournament in back-to-back seasons for the first time in program history. The Northwest women’s team is hosting a regional for the first time since 2008.

Northwest men's and women's tennis, MWSU women's tennis qualify for NCAA tournament

Baseball Savannah 10 East Buchanan 0. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/39a8b8f2-48fe-436f-829a-bb976d59ae2d">Full coverage here</a>. Benton 4 Maryville 0 Bishop LeBlond 4 Falls City, NE 2 St. Joseph Central 16 William Chrisman 11 Maysville 10 North Andrew 0 East Atchison 19 DeKalb 0 Rock Port 2 South Holt 1

Girls’ soccer Atchison, KS 1 Lafayette 0 - OT Bishop LeBlond 7 Chillicothe 0 Mid-Buchanan 3 Warrensburg 0 - The Dragons, at 12-2-1 overall, are the No. 1 ranked team in Class 1 in a new coaches poll released Monday.

Boys’ golf Bishop LeBlond won their home invitational at St. Joseph Country Club Monday with a team score of 301 - 19 shots ahead of second place Barstow. Four LeBlond golfers finished in the top six. Pat and Tim Johnston finished second and third respectively. Pat shot a 72, Tim a 74.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682422898458.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBaseball Savannah 10 East Buchanan 0. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/39a8b8f2-48fe-436f-829a-bb976d59ae2d">Full coverage here</a>. Benton 4 Maryville 0 Bishop LeBlond 4 Falls City, NE 2 St. Joseph Central 16 William Chrisman 11 Maysville 10 North Andrew 0 East Atchison 19 DeKalb 0 Rock Port 2 South Holt 1Girls’ soccer Atchison, KS 1 Lafayette 0 - OT Bishop LeBlond 7 Chillicothe 0 Mid-Buchanan 3 Warrensburg 0 - The Dragons, at 12-2-1 overall, are the No. 1 ranked team in Class 1 in a new coaches poll released Monday.Boys’ golf Bishop LeBlond won their home invitational at St. Joseph Country Club Monday with a team score of 301 - 19 shots ahead of second place Barstow. Four LeBlond golfers finished in the top six. Pat and Tim Johnston finished second and third respectively. Pat shot a 72, Tim a 74.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - April 24, 2023

PHOENIX (AP) — Christian Walker scampered home for the go-ahead run in the eighth inning on Nick Ahmed’s infield single, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks past the Kansas City Royals 5-4 on Monday night. 

Ahmed — who was pinch hitting — brought home Walker on a one-out infield single off reliever Aroldis Chapman. Ahmed hit the ball off the end of his bat and the result was essentially a swinging bunt down the first base line.

 Vinnie Pasquantino tried to get Walker at home, but the throw was late.

The Royals take on the Diamondbacks again Tuesday night with first pitch at 8:40. Coverage begins at 8:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

PHOENIX (AP) — Christian Walker scampered home for the go-ahead run in the eighth inning on Nick Ahmed’s infield single, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks past the Kansas City Royals 5-4 on Monday night. Ahmed — who was pinch hitting — brought home Walker on a one-out infield single off reliever Aroldis Chapman. Ahmed hit the ball off the end of his bat and the result was essentially a swinging bunt down the first base line. Vinnie Pasquantino tried to get Walker at home, but the throw was late.The Royals take on the Diamondbacks again Tuesday night with first pitch at 8:40. Coverage begins at 8:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Diamondbacks edge Royals 5-4 on Walker's sprint home

GOWER - Savannah scored 10 runs on 11 hits to compliment a complete-game shutout from pitcher Ethan Dudeck, and the Savages blanked East Buchanan 10-0 in five innings on Monday at Heritage Park in Gower.

Savannah (14-7) scored three runs in the top of the first inning, going against East Buchanan starting pitcher Bronco Whitt.

Whitt was pulled after the first inning due to pitch count, and Blake Pryor pitched the final four innings for the Bulldogs.

Savannah added one run in the second and five more in the fourth to put the game out of reach. The Savages' 10th run in the top of the fifth put the game into run rule territory.

"We're running bases good, we're making plays," sophomore Landon Noland said. "We're on right now. Everything's working."

East Buchanan (12-3), who has now lost back-to-back games for the first time all season, tallied just four hits on the day and stranded six total baserunners

Dudeck settled in on the mound for Savannah, striking out eight batters and walking just two in five innings.

"We've just been playing as a team and having fun out here," Dudeck said. "When you're having fun playing baseball...it's pretty fun."

Noland was a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. His two-run RBI double in the fourth inning with two outs made it a 6-0 ballgame at that point.

"Just trying to be a team player," Noland said of his performance. "Get some runs in and get on base. That's all I'm trying to do."

Truman Bodenhausen and Parker Brayley also scored twice in the victory. Savannah has now won four straight games and five of their last six. They came into Monday's bout fresh off of a&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/70e4efad-afcd-4b7e-b640-b5e4e6427bae">Pony Express tournament championship</a> last week.

"We just want to keep playing," head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "We understand baseball is one of those games where you come out one night, hit the ball hard and not score any runs, and the other team could not hit hard and score a bunch of runs. So, that's the way it is, but we're trying to take it one pitch at a time, one game at a time and see what happens."

Savannah plays Kirksville in Chillicothe on Tuesday at 4 p.m. East Buchanan is home to Hamilton Tuesday. That game's start time has been pushed back to 5 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682381184331.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Landon Noland (12) gets onto second base after a two-run RBI double in the fourth inning during the Savages' 10-0 win at East Buchanan Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Landon Noland (12) gets onto second base after a two-run RBI double in the fourth inning during the Savages' 10-0 win at East Buchanan Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostGOWER - Savannah scored 10 runs on 11 hits to compliment a complete-game shutout from pitcher Ethan Dudeck, and the Savages blanked East Buchanan 10-0 in five innings on Monday at Heritage Park in Gower.Savannah (14-7) scored three runs in the top of the first inning, going against East Buchanan starting pitcher Bronco Whitt.Whitt was pulled after the first inning due to pitch count, and Blake Pryor pitched the final four innings for the Bulldogs.Savannah added one run in the second and five more in the fourth to put the game out of reach. The Savages' 10th run in the top of the fifth put the game into run rule territory."We're running bases good, we're making plays," sophomore Landon Noland said. "We're on right now. Everything's working."East Buchanan (12-3), who has now lost back-to-back games for the first time all season, tallied just four hits on the day and stranded six total baserunnersDudeck settled in on the mound for Savannah, striking out eight batters and walking just two in five innings."We've just been playing as a team and having fun out here," Dudeck said. "When you're having fun playing baseball...it's pretty fun."Noland was a perfect 4-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. His two-run RBI double in the fourth inning with two outs made it a 6-0 ballgame at that point."Just trying to be a team player," Noland said of his performance. "Get some runs in and get on base. That's all I'm trying to do."Truman Bodenhausen and Parker Brayley also scored twice in the victory. Savannah has now won four straight games and five of their last six. They came into Monday's bout fresh off of a&nbsp;<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/70e4efad-afcd-4b7e-b640-b5e4e6427bae">Pony Express tournament championship</a> last week."We just want to keep playing," head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "We understand baseball is one of those games where you come out one night, hit the ball hard and not score any runs, and the other team could not hit hard and score a bunch of runs. So, that's the way it is, but we're trying to take it one pitch at a time, one game at a time and see what happens."Savannah plays Kirksville in Chillicothe on Tuesday at 4 p.m. East Buchanan is home to Hamilton Tuesday. That game's start time has been pushed back to 5 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682381196926.jpeg" alt="Ethan Dudeck." />
 <figcaption>Ethan Dudeck.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682382188262.jpeg" alt="Parker Brayley slides into third on a steal." />
 <figcaption>Parker Brayley slides into third on a steal.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682382202147.jpeg" alt="Zayden Snapp." />
 <figcaption>Zayden Snapp.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682382217551.jpeg" alt="Blake Pryor." />
 <figcaption>Blake Pryor.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682382233844.jpeg" alt="Max Henry." />
 <figcaption>Max Henry.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah run rules East Buchanan in Gower Monday, Dudeck and Noland shine

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Taylor Ward, Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani hit consecutive homers in the sixth inning, and the Los Angeles Angels hung on for a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Trout also had two doubles for the Angels, who managed only one hit in the first five innings against Jordan Lyles (0-4) before the heart of their order unloaded on the Kansas City starter during a nine-pitch span.

Ward’s drive into the short left-field porch was followed by Trout’s fifth homer of the year and Ohtani’s 415-foot blast to center for his own fifth homer. Los Angeles hadn’t hit back-to-back-to-back homers since June 8, 2019.

“It was good to see some quality at-bats, and obviously Shohei hitting a homer,” Trout said. “We gave Hunter Renfroe a little stuff because he couldn't hit a homer (after the three straight). No, it's all fun to get a good pitch to hit and put the barrel on it.”

Ohtani had two hits and two RBIs, and Ward scored two runs in the Angels' second victory in five games. All three home-run hitters appeared to be revitalized after recent tough stretches on offense.

“We look at (Trout and Ohtani) like they're Superman, and they're human,” Angels manager Phil Nevin said. “They get tired. The last two nights, that's the Mike we know. His bat has been flying through the zone.”

MJ Melendez, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. connected for the Royals, who opened their 10-game trip by losing two of three in Anaheim. Kansas City has lost eight of nine and 11 of 13.

Lyles yielded four hits over six innings with five strikeouts.

“I know at least two of (the Angels’ homers) were off-speed pitches, and two of them were also two-strike pitches, so you give them credit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “They put good swings on pitches when they were behind in the count. Those are three really good hitters, and Jordan did a heck of a job limiting the damage over six innings. You’re facing three of the best hitters in the game there, and that’s what they do.”

Reid Detmers yielded seven hits while pitching into the sixth for the Angels. Austin Warren (1-0) gave up Witt's homer in the seventh during his second appearance of the season, and Carlos Estévez got his third save with a six-pitch ninth inning.

Melendez homered in the first, but Ward scored on Ohtani's flyout later in the inning after advancing on Trout's double.

Pasquantino delivered his fourth homer in the top of the sixth before the Angels' barrage.

Ward had been in a 2-for-27 skid before his homer. He didn’t start Saturday night for the first time this season.

“It was a pretty cool moment, and definitely a difference-maker,” Ward said. “Definitely boosts your confidence a little bit.”

Freddy Fermín got his first major league hit with a single in the third for Kansas City. The 27-year-old Venezuelan catcher is batting .293 at Triple-A Omaha, and he got a chance in the majors this weekend with Franmil Reyes on the paternity list.

Royals: MJ Melendez left in the fourth inning with lower back tightness. Hunter Dozier replaced him in right field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682355763233.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez hits a solo home run as Los Angeles Angels catcher Chad Wallach and home plate umpire Shane Livensparger watch during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 23, 2023, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez hits a solo home run as Los Angeles Angels catcher Chad Wallach and home plate umpire Shane Livensparger watch during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 23, 2023, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)</figcaption>
 </figure>ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Taylor Ward, Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani hit consecutive homers in the sixth inning, and the Los Angeles Angels hung on for a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.Trout also had two doubles for the Angels, who managed only one hit in the first five innings against Jordan Lyles (0-4) before the heart of their order unloaded on the Kansas City starter during a nine-pitch span.Ward’s drive into the short left-field porch was followed by Trout’s fifth homer of the year and Ohtani’s 415-foot blast to center for his own fifth homer. Los Angeles hadn’t hit back-to-back-to-back homers since June 8, 2019.“It was good to see some quality at-bats, and obviously Shohei hitting a homer,” Trout said. “We gave Hunter Renfroe a little stuff because he couldn't hit a homer (after the three straight). No, it's all fun to get a good pitch to hit and put the barrel on it.”Ohtani had two hits and two RBIs, and Ward scored two runs in the Angels' second victory in five games. All three home-run hitters appeared to be revitalized after recent tough stretches on offense.“We look at (Trout and Ohtani) like they're Superman, and they're human,” Angels manager Phil Nevin said. “They get tired. The last two nights, that's the Mike we know. His bat has been flying through the zone.”MJ Melendez, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. connected for the Royals, who opened their 10-game trip by losing two of three in Anaheim. Kansas City has lost eight of nine and 11 of 13.Lyles yielded four hits over six innings with five strikeouts.“I know at least two of (the Angels’ homers) were off-speed pitches, and two of them were also two-strike pitches, so you give them credit,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “They put good swings on pitches when they were behind in the count. Those are three really good hitters, and Jordan did a heck of a job limiting the damage over six innings. You’re facing three of the best hitters in the game there, and that’s what they do.”Reid Detmers yielded seven hits while pitching into the sixth for the Angels. Austin Warren (1-0) gave up Witt's homer in the seventh during his second appearance of the season, and Carlos Estévez got his third save with a six-pitch ninth inning.Melendez homered in the first, but Ward scored on Ohtani's flyout later in the inning after advancing on Trout's double.Pasquantino delivered his fourth homer in the top of the sixth before the Angels' barrage.Ward had been in a 2-for-27 skid before his homer. He didn’t start Saturday night for the first time this season.“It was a pretty cool moment, and definitely a difference-maker,” Ward said. “Definitely boosts your confidence a little bit.”FAST FREDDYFreddy Fermín got his first major league hit with a single in the third for Kansas City. The 27-year-old Venezuelan catcher is batting .293 at Triple-A Omaha, and he got a chance in the majors this weekend with Franmil Reyes on the paternity list.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: MJ Melendez left in the fourth inning with lower back tightness. Hunter Dozier replaced him in right field.

Back-to-back-to-back home runs from Ward, Trout, and Ohtani down Royals 4-3

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — MJ Melendez was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded as the Kansas City Royals scored five times in the ninth inning to rally for an 11-8 victory over the Los Angeles Angels that snapped a six-game losing streak. 

Hunter Dozier had three hits and three RBIs, including a two-run single in the ninth that provided some insurance for the Royals. Matt Duffy also had three hits. 

The Angels lost despite hitting four home runs for the second time this season. Matt Thaiss gave the Halos an 8-6 lead in the eighth inning with a two-run shot, but José Quijada was unable to hold it. Hunter Renfroe went deep twice and Mike Trout homered for the first time in two weeks.

The Royals take on the Angels again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 3:07. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — MJ Melendez was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded as the Kansas City Royals scored five times in the ninth inning to rally for an 11-8 victory over the Los Angeles Angels that snapped a six-game losing streak. Hunter Dozier had three hits and three RBIs, including a two-run single in the ninth that provided some insurance for the Royals. Matt Duffy also had three hits. The Angels lost despite hitting four home runs for the second time this season. Matt Thaiss gave the Halos an 8-6 lead in the eighth inning with a two-run shot, but José Quijada was unable to hold it. Hunter Renfroe went deep twice and Mike Trout homered for the first time in two weeks.The Royals take on the Angels again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 3:07. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Royals rally with 5 in 9th for 11-8 victory over Angels

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani struck out a season-high 11 and allowed two hits over seven dominant innings, and fill-in catcher Chad Wallach hit a two-run homer in the Los Angeles Angels’ 2-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. 

Ohtani struck out the side in the first inning, and he struck out the final six Royals he faced. In between, Kansas City managed two singles and two walks while getting just one runner to second base.

After issuing a leadoff walk in the sixth, Ohtani struck out his final six batters to secure his major league-best 12th double-digit strikeout game since the start of 2022.

The Royals take on the Angels again Saturday night with first pitch at 8:07. Coverage begins at 7:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani struck out a season-high 11 and allowed two hits over seven dominant innings, and fill-in catcher Chad Wallach hit a two-run homer in the Los Angeles Angels’ 2-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Ohtani struck out the side in the first inning, and he struck out the final six Royals he faced. In between, Kansas City managed two singles and two walks while getting just one runner to second base.After issuing a leadoff walk in the sixth, Ohtani struck out his final six batters to secure his major league-best 12th double-digit strikeout game since the start of 2022.The Royals take on the Angels again Saturday night with first pitch at 8:07. Coverage begins at 7:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Shohei Ohtani strikes out 11, Angels beat Royals 2-0

The Missouri Show-Me State Games stopped in St. Joseph on Friday as part of their annual 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run.'

The Torch Run makes its way through multiple Missouri cities each spring. St. Joseph is one of five cities the State Games are stopping in to promote the Olympic-style sports festival held in Columbia this summer.

The 39th annual State Games are scheduled for June 8-11, July 21-23 and July 28-30.

"Really, we want to bring awareness and bring the message of fitness, family and fun," said Chris Ricks, director of marketing for Shelter Insurance.

"Really get out and invite everyone to come to Columbia and be a part of it this summer. We love hosting everybody, and looking forward to having everybody come."

State Games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Sports Commission, the St. Joseph Mustangs, Parks and Recreation and Shelter Insurance gathered at the Pony Express statue across the street from the St. Joseph CVB building Friday.

"When you go to Columbia and compete in the state games, it really is an Olympic-style festival," said Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

"Those folks are experienced, they know what they're doing. It's exciting to work and go to the games and I encourage anybody, it's something great to work towards and mark your calendar and take part."

Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. Participants have more than 40 sports to pick from, from pickleball to powerlifting. From football to fencing.

"To be able to have that opportunity to create memories with your parents, teammates, coaches, that's what makes it so special," said St. Joseph Mustangs owner Ky Turner - a former State Games competitor himself.

Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.

Esely pointed out that St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Inductee, St. Joseph native and former State Games executive director, Gary Filbert, had a huge influence on the origin of this annual event as a founding father.

"I think I knew (Filbert's) history with the Show-Me Games," Esely said, "but I'll be honest, I don't know if I knew that he was the founder of the Show-Me Games. One of the founding fathers. Anytime you're the founding father of anything, that's special."

Filbert, a Benton graduate, was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association. He was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682105323019.jpeg" alt="Ky Turner (left), Brett Esely (enter) and Chris Ricks (right) hold the Show-Me State Games running torch at a ceremony near the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau on Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ky Turner (left), Brett Esely (enter) and Chris Ricks (right) hold the Show-Me State Games running torch at a ceremony near the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau on Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Show-Me State Games stopped in St. Joseph on Friday as part of their annual 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run.'The Torch Run makes its way through multiple Missouri cities each spring. St. Joseph is one of five cities the State Games are stopping in to promote the Olympic-style sports festival held in Columbia this summer.The 39th annual State Games are scheduled for June 8-11, July 21-23 and July 28-30."Really, we want to bring awareness and bring the message of fitness, family and fun," said Chris Ricks, director of marketing for Shelter Insurance."Really get out and invite everyone to come to Columbia and be a part of it this summer. We love hosting everybody, and looking forward to having everybody come."State Games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Sports Commission, the St. Joseph Mustangs, Parks and Recreation and Shelter Insurance gathered at the Pony Express statue across the street from the St. Joseph CVB building Friday."When you go to Columbia and compete in the state games, it really is an Olympic-style festival," said Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission."Those folks are experienced, they know what they're doing. It's exciting to work and go to the games and I encourage anybody, it's something great to work towards and mark your calendar and take part."Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. Participants have more than 40 sports to pick from, from pickleball to powerlifting. From football to fencing."To be able to have that opportunity to create memories with your parents, teammates, coaches, that's what makes it so special," said St. Joseph Mustangs owner Ky Turner - a former State Games competitor himself.Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.Esely pointed out that St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame Inductee, St. Joseph native and former State Games executive director, Gary Filbert, had a huge influence on the origin of this annual event as a founding father."I think I knew (Filbert's) history with the Show-Me Games," Esely said, "but I'll be honest, I don't know if I knew that he was the founder of the Show-Me Games. One of the founding fathers. Anytime you're the founding father of anything, that's special."Filbert, a Benton graduate, was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association. He was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682107820057.jpeg" alt="Ky Turner gives some remarks at the Shelter Insurance Torch Run near the St. Joseph CVB Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ky Turner gives some remarks at the Shelter Insurance Torch Run near the St. Joseph CVB Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682107871710.jpeg" alt="Show-Me State Games executive director Dave Fox (right) lit the ceremonial torch Friday." />
 <figcaption>Show-Me State Games executive director Dave Fox (right) lit the ceremonial torch Friday.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Show-Me State Games stops in St. Joseph Friday for Shelter Insurance Torch Run

Platte City native and now Missouri Western alum Kobe Cummings has had aspirations of playing professional football ever since he can remember.

He's closer than ever to making that dream a reality. Cummings, who just wrapped up a five-year career at Missouri Western this past fall, formally declared for the NFL draft on February 2.

"A lot of working out and nutrition stuff," Cummings told KFEQ Radio about his routine over the last couple of months.

"Staying up on my supplements and making sure I'm doing the right recovery. Lots of focusing on little things. Just making sure my body is in the best position for when I do get that opportunity."

Cummings finished fifth in MWSU history with 282 total tackles and third in program history with 252 interception return yards. His nine career INTs tie for seventh most in the career record books as well.

A 6-foot, 205-pound safety, Cummings recently took part in Mizzou's Pro Day in Columbia on March 24 along with MWSU teammates D.J. Stirgus, Isaac Wallace and A.J. Crayton.

"You don't get invited (to Pro Day) for just being on a team," Cummings said. "You have to produce and be one of those guys. Seeing the competition level there, it was awesome to go out there and compete with those guys. Talking to them, getting information and pointers here and there."

Cummings' performance at the Pro Day garnered at least some initial interest from the San Francisco 49ers. It also gained him an invite to the Kansas City Chiefs' local pro day on April 6.

"The culture (the Chiefs) have built there since Andy Reid came in, and all of the guys they've brought in from draft picks and signing free agents, they've built a powerful culture," Cummings said of the defending Super Bowl champions.

"It runs deep. It was great go in there and just experience what those guys go through on a day-to-day basis."

Cummings' 2021 season really put him on the pro radar. He snagged six interceptions for a Division II-best 230 return yards that year, including an 80-yard pick six against Fort Hays State in week two.

His three INTs against Northeastern State that same season tied a single-game program record.

Cummings did not receive an NFL Combine invite, and he knows the odds for DII players getting drafted are lesser than those who are in DI.

Cummings, though, isn't bothered by these obstacles.

"I've always worked and played with a chip on my shoulder," he said. "Just knowing I have the ability to compete with those guys. I just need the opportunity and once I get the opportunity, I think I've proven throughout high school and college that I'll rise to the occasion, no matter what situation I'm put in."

History shows there is a viable path for Division II football players in the NFL. Last year alone, 13 DII players made NFL rosters, and roughly 50 players from DII schools played in the league last season.

Five DII players were selected in last year's draft, including Northwest Missouri State defensive lineman Sam Roberts, who had his name called in the sixth round by the New England Patriots.

Missouri Western alum and Excelsior Springs native Sam Webb signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent just last year. Webb, a cornerback, is one of three former Griffons who are active in the NFL, along with safety Jonathan Owens (Houston) and kicker Greg Zuerlein (New York Jets).

Cummings was teammates with Webb for four years at Missouri Western. Webb made the Raiders' active roster last August and made a splash in his rookie season, totaling 36 tackles, three pass deflections and a forced fumble.

It's Webb, Cummings says, who has been the biggest help in this process. The two have even been training together at Full Throttle Fitness in Kansas City.

"Being able to pick things from (Webb's) mind, he'd come out and do field work with me," Cummings said. "Just little things scouts and coaches are going to look at. The things that'll make the difference between a pass breakup and an interception. Angles and stuff that's running through your mind before the play even happens."

Nine former Missouri Western players have gone on to play in the NFL. The Griffons have had four draft picks in history - David Bass (2013, DE), Greg Zuerlein (2012, K), John Fisher (1996, DB) and Vince Thompson (1985, DE).

Blue Springs South grad and former MWSU corner Brandin Dandridge had a brief stint with the Chiefs last year, and is currently in his fifth season with the Ottawa Redblacks in the Canadian Football League.

Only time will tell where Kobe Cummings is headed next in his football career, but one thing is certain - the former Griffon and Platte County Pirate has been readying himself by the day. Not just this spring, but for many years before this.

"As long as you're getting better every day, you'll end up being the player you want to be," Cummings said. "It's all about putting in that work and having a good attitude. Those are the two things, effort and attitude, that'll be able to take you a very long ways."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682023004953.jpeg" alt="Kobe Cummings had three interceptions for 143 return yards in a 2021 home game against Northeastern State. He finished his Griffon career with nine total INTs. Stock photo via MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Kobe Cummings had three interceptions for 143 return yards in a 2021 home game against Northeastern State. He finished his Griffon career with nine total INTs. Stock photo via MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostPlatte City native and now Missouri Western alum Kobe Cummings has had aspirations of playing professional football ever since he can remember.He's closer than ever to making that dream a reality. Cummings, who just wrapped up a five-year career at Missouri Western this past fall, formally declared for the NFL draft on February 2."A lot of working out and nutrition stuff," Cummings told KFEQ Radio about his routine over the last couple of months."Staying up on my supplements and making sure I'm doing the right recovery. Lots of focusing on little things. Just making sure my body is in the best position for when I do get that opportunity."Cummings finished fifth in MWSU history with 282 total tackles and third in program history with 252 interception return yards. His nine career INTs tie for seventh most in the career record books as well.A 6-foot, 205-pound safety, Cummings recently took part in Mizzou's Pro Day in Columbia on March 24 along with MWSU teammates D.J. Stirgus, Isaac Wallace and A.J. Crayton."You don't get invited (to Pro Day) for just being on a team," Cummings said. "You have to produce and be one of those guys. Seeing the competition level there, it was awesome to go out there and compete with those guys. Talking to them, getting information and pointers here and there."Cummings' performance at the Pro Day garnered at least some initial interest from the San Francisco 49ers. It also gained him an invite to the Kansas City Chiefs' local pro day on April 6."The culture (the Chiefs) have built there since Andy Reid came in, and all of the guys they've brought in from draft picks and signing free agents, they've built a powerful culture," Cummings said of the defending Super Bowl champions."It runs deep. It was great go in there and just experience what those guys go through on a day-to-day basis."Cummings' 2021 season really put him on the pro radar. He snagged six interceptions for a Division II-best 230 return yards that year, including an 80-yard pick six against Fort Hays State in week two.His three INTs against Northeastern State that same season tied a single-game program record.Cummings did not receive an NFL Combine invite, and he knows the odds for DII players getting drafted are lesser than those who are in DI.Cummings, though, isn't bothered by these obstacles."I've always worked and played with a chip on my shoulder," he said. "Just knowing I have the ability to compete with those guys. I just need the opportunity and once I get the opportunity, I think I've proven throughout high school and college that I'll rise to the occasion, no matter what situation I'm put in."History shows there is a viable path for Division II football players in the NFL. Last year alone, 13 DII players made NFL rosters, and roughly 50 players from DII schools played in the league last season.Five DII players were selected in last year's draft, including Northwest Missouri State defensive lineman Sam Roberts, who had his name called in the sixth round by the New England Patriots.Missouri Western alum and Excelsior Springs native Sam Webb signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent just last year. Webb, a cornerback, is one of three former Griffons who are active in the NFL, along with safety Jonathan Owens (Houston) and kicker Greg Zuerlein (New York Jets).Cummings was teammates with Webb for four years at Missouri Western. Webb made the Raiders' active roster last August and made a splash in his rookie season, totaling 36 tackles, three pass deflections and a forced fumble.It's Webb, Cummings says, who has been the biggest help in this process. The two have even been training together at Full Throttle Fitness in Kansas City."Being able to pick things from (Webb's) mind, he'd come out and do field work with me," Cummings said. "Just little things scouts and coaches are going to look at. The things that'll make the difference between a pass breakup and an interception. Angles and stuff that's running through your mind before the play even happens."Nine former Missouri Western players have gone on to play in the NFL. The Griffons have had four draft picks in history - David Bass (2013, DE), Greg Zuerlein (2012, K), John Fisher (1996, DB) and Vince Thompson (1985, DE).Blue Springs South grad and former MWSU corner Brandin Dandridge had a brief stint with the Chiefs last year, and is currently in his fifth season with the Ottawa Redblacks in the Canadian Football League.Only time will tell where Kobe Cummings is headed next in his football career, but one thing is certain - the former Griffon and Platte County Pirate has been readying himself by the day. Not just this spring, but for many years before this."As long as you're getting better every day, you'll end up being the player you want to be," Cummings said. "It's all about putting in that work and having a good attitude. Those are the two things, effort and attitude, that'll be able to take you a very long ways."Interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Missouri-Western-safety--Platte-City-native-Kobe-Cummings-e22o6mr" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682022923364.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of MWSU athletics." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of MWSU athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Platte City native, MWSU alum Kobe Cummings hopeful for a future in pro football

The first four innings flew by in just over an hour.

How could Savannah and Smithville have known, at that point, that they'd be in for a four-hour, 14-inning marathon to settle the Pony Express Tournament championship?

"I've coached over 500 games," Savannah head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "That was the longest game I've ever coached. It was a lot of fun. Especially to be victorious there. I felt like both teams had chances to win it, and it just didn't happen until the end there."

Savannah (13-7) would at last prevail, scoring five runs in the top of the 14th inning to break the tie and beat the Warriors 12-7 at Phil Welch Stadium in St. Joseph Wednesday.

The deadlock was broken with junior Zayden Snapp's three-run RBI double to deep left with bases loaded in the top of the 14th.

"Man, I think everyone on the team was waiting for it," Snapp grinned. "I don't know, it just felt really good to break (the tie) and finally take the lead."

On the hill, junior Wyatt Jackson held Smithville scoreless for five innings of relief, taking over with two on and nobody out in the top of the 10th.

"I was in a different mode that game," Jackson shared. "When I came in, I was locked and...I don't know it was a different level of...it was crazy, it was nuts, it was so fun and I'm so glad we came out with a win. It was just so much fun."

After getting down 1-0 in the first, Savannah took a 2-1 lead in the top of the fifth - only for Smithville to reclaim the lead at 4-2 in the bottom of that inning.

That, as you might have guessed, was just the tip of the iceberg. Savannah scored three runs in the top of the sixth to once again take the lead at 5-4.

Smithville tied the game in the bottom of the frame, and both teams went down in order in the seventh to send it to extras.

The Savages regained the lead at 7-5 in the top of the ninth, scoring two runs on two errors and an RBI single from senior Ethan Dudeck.

It seemed like Savannah would end it there, as Smithville had two on with two outs in the bottom of the ninth.

Smithville's Andrew Hedgecorth was faced with a 1-2 count before he launched a two-run RBI double to deep left field to knot the game at 7-7.

Both teams then slogged through four scoreless innings of missed opportunities before Snapp broke the dam in the top of the 14th.

Snapp stole home, and Sutton Snipes laced an RBI single to left in the 14th as well to give the Savages some insurance.

Jackson had four strikeouts in his five innings of relief, allowing just one hit in that time. He also had two hits and two runs scored on offense.

Sophomore Landon Noland had a team-best four hits in the win. While the Savages stranded 16 baserunners, they wound up with 18 total hits.

"We knew we could beat them," Jackson said of Smithville, who beat Savannah 10-5 just six days prior. "We hadn't been playing to the best of our abilities and that game we were firing on all cylinders. After this, we're going to be a team and we're going to be scary. This game brought us confidence, it brought us together and it's going to be a fun season."

Wednesday's game was certainly memorable and extraordinary for all involved, as both teams beat the impending thunderstorms, and also delayed Benton and Chillicothe's third place game by about 2.5 hours.

Still, it goes down as a win for Savannah - a team that has won the Pony Express Tournament in back-to-back seasons, and a team that's now won four of its last five games in 2023.

"These guys have great ability," coach Bodenhausen said. "They can definitely go far if we can put it together and play well in all three phases, which I felt like we did that tonight. Our defense was solid, our pitching was good, and offensively, our offense has really been good all year long."

Savannah will head to Gower on Monday to face East Buchanan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681960107585.jpeg" alt="Zayden Snapp celebrates after his three-run RBI double in the 14th inning broke a tie, and would end up being the go-ahead play in a 12-7 win over Smithville at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday night in the Pony Express Tournament championship. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Zayden Snapp celebrates after his three-run RBI double in the 14th inning broke a tie, and would end up being the go-ahead play in a 12-7 win over Smithville at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday night in the Pony Express Tournament championship. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe first four innings flew by in just over an hour.How could Savannah and Smithville have known, at that point, that they'd be in for a four-hour, 14-inning marathon to settle the Pony Express Tournament championship?"I've coached over 500 games," Savannah head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "That was the longest game I've ever coached. It was a lot of fun. Especially to be victorious there. I felt like both teams had chances to win it, and it just didn't happen until the end there."Savannah (13-7) would at last prevail, scoring five runs in the top of the 14th inning to break the tie and beat the Warriors 12-7 at Phil Welch Stadium in St. Joseph Wednesday.The deadlock was broken with junior Zayden Snapp's three-run RBI double to deep left with bases loaded in the top of the 14th."Man, I think everyone on the team was waiting for it," Snapp grinned. "I don't know, it just felt really good to break (the tie) and finally take the lead."On the hill, junior Wyatt Jackson held Smithville scoreless for five innings of relief, taking over with two on and nobody out in the top of the 10th."I was in a different mode that game," Jackson shared. "When I came in, I was locked and...I don't know it was a different level of...it was crazy, it was nuts, it was so fun and I'm so glad we came out with a win. It was just so much fun."After getting down 1-0 in the first, Savannah took a 2-1 lead in the top of the fifth - only for Smithville to reclaim the lead at 4-2 in the bottom of that inning.That, as you might have guessed, was just the tip of the iceberg. Savannah scored three runs in the top of the sixth to once again take the lead at 5-4.Smithville tied the game in the bottom of the frame, and both teams went down in order in the seventh to send it to extras.The Savages regained the lead at 7-5 in the top of the ninth, scoring two runs on two errors and an RBI single from senior Ethan Dudeck.It seemed like Savannah would end it there, as Smithville had two on with two outs in the bottom of the ninth.Smithville's Andrew Hedgecorth was faced with a 1-2 count before he launched a two-run RBI double to deep left field to knot the game at 7-7.Both teams then slogged through four scoreless innings of missed opportunities before Snapp broke the dam in the top of the 14th.Snapp stole home, and Sutton Snipes laced an RBI single to left in the 14th as well to give the Savages some insurance.Jackson had four strikeouts in his five innings of relief, allowing just one hit in that time. He also had two hits and two runs scored on offense.Sophomore Landon Noland had a team-best four hits in the win. While the Savages stranded 16 baserunners, they wound up with 18 total hits."We knew we could beat them," Jackson said of Smithville, who beat Savannah 10-5 just six days prior. "We hadn't been playing to the best of our abilities and that game we were firing on all cylinders. After this, we're going to be a team and we're going to be scary. This game brought us confidence, it brought us together and it's going to be a fun season."Wednesday's game was certainly memorable and extraordinary for all involved, as both teams beat the impending thunderstorms, and also delayed Benton and Chillicothe's third place game by about 2.5 hours.Still, it goes down as a win for Savannah - a team that has won the Pony Express Tournament in back-to-back seasons, and a team that's now won four of its last five games in 2023."These guys have great ability," coach Bodenhausen said. "They can definitely go far if we can put it together and play well in all three phases, which I felt like we did that tonight. Our defense was solid, our pitching was good, and offensively, our offense has really been good all year long."Savannah will head to Gower on Monday to face East Buchanan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681961168137.jpeg" alt="Cash Porter lays down a bunt." />
 <figcaption>Cash Porter lays down a bunt.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681961181982.jpeg" alt="Cooper Swan." />
 <figcaption>Cooper Swan.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681961202968.jpeg" alt="Parker Brayley comes in to score." />
 <figcaption>Parker Brayley comes in to score.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681961219025.jpeg" alt="Truman Bodenhausen." />
 <figcaption>Truman Bodenhausen.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681961237620.jpeg" alt="Wyatt Jackson." />
 <figcaption>Wyatt Jackson.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681958821233.jpeg" alt="Zayden Snapp." />
 <figcaption>Zayden Snapp.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah survives Smithville in 14 innings to win Pony Express Tournament

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a three-run homer and Marcus Semien had three hits while driving in a pair of runs to help the Rangers to a 12-3 win over the Royals and a sweep of their three-game series. 

Ezequiel Duran added a bases-loaded double, and Leody Taveras and Adolis Garcia also drove in a pair of runs apiece for the Rangers on Wednesday. They've won four straight and at 12-6 matched the fifth-best start in franchise history through 18 games. 

Martin Pérez allowed three runs on eight hits over 5 2/3 innings to earn the win. Brady Singer took the loss after allowing five runs on six hits and three walks.

The Royals next take on the Angels Friday night with first pitch at 8:38. Coverage begins at 8:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a three-run homer and Marcus Semien had three hits while driving in a pair of runs to help the Rangers to a 12-3 win over the Royals and a sweep of their three-game series. Ezequiel Duran added a bases-loaded double, and Leody Taveras and Adolis Garcia also drove in a pair of runs apiece for the Rangers on Wednesday. They've won four straight and at 12-6 matched the fifth-best start in franchise history through 18 games. Martin Pérez allowed three runs on eight hits over 5 2/3 innings to earn the win. Brady Singer took the loss after allowing five runs on six hits and three walks.The Royals next take on the Angels Friday night with first pitch at 8:38. Coverage begins at 8:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Heim, Semien lead Rangers to 12-3 win over KC, series sweep

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Marcus Semien and Adolis Garcia hit three-run homers to lead the Texas Rangers to a 12-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

 Sandy León also drove in two runs for the Rangers. Nathan Eovaldi picked up the win after allowing two runs on seven hits and a walk over six innings. Brad Keller took the loss after allowing three runs on three hits and five walks in four innings. 

Texas improved to 11-6, reaching five games over .500 for the first time since July 16, 2019. The Royals have lost five straight and dropped to 1-11 at home this season.

The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Marcus Semien and Adolis Garcia hit three-run homers to lead the Texas Rangers to a 12-2 win over the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night. Sandy León also drove in two runs for the Rangers. Nathan Eovaldi picked up the win after allowing two runs on seven hits and a walk over six innings. Brad Keller took the loss after allowing three runs on three hits and five walks in four innings. Texas improved to 11-6, reaching five games over .500 for the first time since July 16, 2019. The Royals have lost five straight and dropped to 1-11 at home this season.The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.