KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans allowed one hit in six innings and Freddy Fermin drove in three runs as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 8-3 on Wednesday for a series sweep.

Ragans (4-3) struck out a career-best 12 while holding the Tigers hitless until Riley Greene’s two-out single in the sixth.

The Royals opened the scoring in the second on Fermin’s one-out RBI double off the top of the left-centerfield wall. One out later, Garrett Hampson followed with an RBI double for a 2-0 lead.

Nelson Velázquez hit his fourth home run into the leftfield fountains to lead off the fourth.

Kansas City took a 4-0 lead in the fifth on three consecutive one-out singles with Vinnie Pasquantino’s RBI hit scoring Maikel Garcia, who extended his hitting streak to 10 games.

Tarik Skubal (6-1) threw five innings, allowing four runs on six hits with two walks and six strikeouts.

The loss snapped Skubal’s 14-game unbeaten streak dating to Aug. 29 last year.

Andy Ibáñez cut the deficit to 4-2 with a two-out, two-run double in the seventh.

Bobby Witt Jr. and Fermin delivered two-run hits in the bottom half of the frame, extending the lead to 8-2.

The Royals won their first series against the Tigers since taking two of three in September 2022. It was Kansas City’s first sweep of Detroit since July 2021.

Colt Keith recorded seven of the Tigers’ 19 hits in the series.

Royals RHP Seth Lugo (7-1, 1.79) opposes Rays&nbsp; on Friday in Tampa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716411828410.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans allowed one hit in six innings and Freddy Fermin drove in three runs as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 8-3 on Wednesday for a series sweep.Ragans (4-3) struck out a career-best 12 while holding the Tigers hitless until Riley Greene’s two-out single in the sixth.The Royals opened the scoring in the second on Fermin’s one-out RBI double off the top of the left-centerfield wall. One out later, Garrett Hampson followed with an RBI double for a 2-0 lead.Nelson Velázquez hit his fourth home run into the leftfield fountains to lead off the fourth.Kansas City took a 4-0 lead in the fifth on three consecutive one-out singles with Vinnie Pasquantino’s RBI hit scoring Maikel Garcia, who extended his hitting streak to 10 games.Tarik Skubal (6-1) threw five innings, allowing four runs on six hits with two walks and six strikeouts.The loss snapped Skubal’s 14-game unbeaten streak dating to Aug. 29 last year.Andy Ibáñez cut the deficit to 4-2 with a two-out, two-run double in the seventh.Bobby Witt Jr. and Fermin delivered two-run hits in the bottom half of the frame, extending the lead to 8-2.The Royals won their first series against the Tigers since taking two of three in September 2022. It was Kansas City’s first sweep of Detroit since July 2021.The Royals have won six straight.Colt Keith recorded seven of the Tigers’ 19 hits in the series.Detroit has lost four straight.UP NEXTRoyals RHP Seth Lugo (7-1, 1.79) opposes Rays&nbsp; on Friday in Tampa.

Cole Ragans allows 1 hit, strikes out 12 in Royals' 8-3 win over Tigers

Benton scored the game's lone run in the third inning and starting pitcher Chris Coy struck out eight batters in a complete game, as the Cardinals (30-3) blanked St. Pius X, 1-0, in a Class 4 state sectional at the Missouri Western Spring Sports Complex Tuesday.

Benton had only two hits, but it was Myles Bachali who drove in Bryson Brown on an RBI single in the bottom of the third, and that was the game.

Pius (18-10-1) seemingly scored the first run of the game in the top of the first inning when senior Wade Mann came around to score off of a single from Tommy Hustler.

However, Mann never touched home plate and was called out as soon as he got to the dugout.

Pius also left the bases loaded in the top of the third.

Both offenses went cold in the back half of the game. Benton and Pius both went down in order in the fourth, fifth and sixth inning.

Pius got two runners on with one out in the top of the seventh, but a groundout and a strikeout ended the threat.

Coy, a junior, followed up his complete game performance against Savannah last Thursday in the district title with a complete game shutout on Tuesday. He struck out eight batters while walking only two.

Junior Ty Earwood was stellar on the mound for Pius, striking out six Cardinals in all.

Benton has now won 19 games in a row and has reached the state quarterfinals for the first time since 2007 - the year the Cardinals won it all.

Benton will stay at Missouri Western for a third consecutive game. The Cardinals face St. Michael the Archangel (16-12) in state quarterfinals on Thursday at a time to be determined.

The game will be broadcast live on StJosephPost.com <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">AT THIS LINK</a>.

St. Michael beat Excelsior Springs Tuesday, 2-0.

Class 3 state sectional Mid-Buchanan 7 Lone Jack 5 - FINAL

The Dragons (20-8) advance to state quarterfinals to take on Lone Jack (30-1) on Thursday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716343934908.jpeg" alt="Chris Coy struck out eight batters in a complete game shutout against St. Pius X, as the Cardinals beat the Warriors in Class 4 state sectionals on Tuesday at Missouri Western. Photo by Alexis Starks." />
 <figcaption>Chris Coy struck out eight batters in a complete game shutout against St. Pius X, as the Cardinals beat the Warriors in Class 4 state sectionals on Tuesday at Missouri Western. Photo by Alexis Starks.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBenton scored the game's lone run in the third inning and starting pitcher Chris Coy struck out eight batters in a complete game, as the Cardinals (30-3) blanked St. Pius X, 1-0, in a Class 4 state sectional at the Missouri Western Spring Sports Complex Tuesday.Benton had only two hits, but it was Myles Bachali who drove in Bryson Brown on an RBI single in the bottom of the third, and that was the game.Pius (18-10-1) seemingly scored the first run of the game in the top of the first inning when senior Wade Mann came around to score off of a single from Tommy Hustler.However, Mann never touched home plate and was called out as soon as he got to the dugout.Pius also left the bases loaded in the top of the third.Both offenses went cold in the back half of the game. Benton and Pius both went down in order in the fourth, fifth and sixth inning.Pius got two runners on with one out in the top of the seventh, but a groundout and a strikeout ended the threat.Coy, a junior, followed up his complete game performance against Savannah last Thursday in the district title with a complete game shutout on Tuesday. He struck out eight batters while walking only two.Junior Ty Earwood was stellar on the mound for Pius, striking out six Cardinals in all.Benton has now won 19 games in a row and has reached the state quarterfinals for the first time since 2007 - the year the Cardinals won it all.Benton will stay at Missouri Western for a third consecutive game. The Cardinals face St. Michael the Archangel (16-12) in state quarterfinals on Thursday at a time to be determined.The game will be broadcast live on StJosephPost.com <a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/SJPOST">AT THIS LINK</a>.St. Michael beat Excelsior Springs Tuesday, 2-0.Full audio broadcast<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Benton-vs--St--Pius-X---State-Sectional-Baseball-e2jv5gi/a-ab9pi6c" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Johnny Coy interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Johnny-Coy---52124-e2jv620/a-ab9pjlv" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Chris Coy interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Chris-Coy---52124-e2jv63b/a-ab9pjqf" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716344715280.jpeg" alt="Myles Bachali (1)." />
 <figcaption>Myles Bachali (1).</figcaption>
 </figure>Class 3 state sectional Mid-Buchanan 7 Lone Jack 5 - FINALThe Dragons (20-8) advance to state quarterfinals to take on Lone Jack (30-1) on Thursday.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chris Coy throws complete game, Benton blanks Pius to reach state quarters

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. homered twice as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 10-3 for their fifth straight win on Tuesday night.

Maikel Garcia led off the first with a triple and scored on Witt’s infield hit. Witt stole second and scored when Salvador Perez hit a single to right.

After Kyle Isbel and Garcia singled in the second, Witt hit Casey Mize’s splitter 468 feet — the farthest of his career —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746309/video/bobby-witt-jr-s-468-foot-home-run">into the upper deck fountains.</a>

Mize (1-3) surrendered six runs on nine hits with two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings, the shortest outing of his career.

Garcia drove an RBI triple to right and scored on Witt’s third-inning sacrifice fly to give the Royals an 8-0 lead. Garcia scored three runs while matching a career best with four hits, extending his hitting streak to nine games.

Witt added a solo homer leading off the sixth. It was his fourth multihomer game as he matched a career best with six RBIs.

In the seventh, Hunter Renfroe’s fourth homer of the season capped the scoring.

Kansas City collected six extra-base hits and has at least one extra-base hit in all 50 games this year, one game shy of their franchise record set in 1978.

Alec Marsh (4-1) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks with five strikeouts in six innings. The Royals have won all but one of his eight starts.

Kansas City has led or been tied for all 45 innings of the current homestand and hasn’t trailed since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-mariners-score-0b62bf25f1441178eafb446f901ba9f2">Wednesday’s loss at Seattle.</a>

Matt Vierling hit a two-run triple in the fourth and scored on Colt Keith’s single. Keith had three of Detroit’s six hits.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716344697393.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates in the dugout after hitting a three-run home run against the Detroit Tigers during the second inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. celebrates in the dugout after hitting a three-run home run against the Detroit Tigers during the second inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. homered twice as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 10-3 for their fifth straight win on Tuesday night.Maikel Garcia led off the first with a triple and scored on Witt’s infield hit. Witt stole second and scored when Salvador Perez hit a single to right.After Kyle Isbel and Garcia singled in the second, Witt hit Casey Mize’s splitter 468 feet — the farthest of his career —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/gameday/746309/video/bobby-witt-jr-s-468-foot-home-run">into the upper deck fountains.</a>Mize (1-3) surrendered six runs on nine hits with two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings, the shortest outing of his career.Garcia drove an RBI triple to right and scored on Witt’s third-inning sacrifice fly to give the Royals an 8-0 lead. Garcia scored three runs while matching a career best with four hits, extending his hitting streak to nine games.Witt added a solo homer leading off the sixth. It was his fourth multihomer game as he matched a career best with six RBIs.In the seventh, Hunter Renfroe’s fourth homer of the season capped the scoring.Kansas City collected six extra-base hits and has at least one extra-base hit in all 50 games this year, one game shy of their franchise record set in 1978.Alec Marsh (4-1) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks with five strikeouts in six innings. The Royals have won all but one of his eight starts.Kansas City has led or been tied for all 45 innings of the current homestand and hasn’t trailed since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-mariners-score-0b62bf25f1441178eafb446f901ba9f2">Wednesday’s loss at Seattle.</a>Matt Vierling hit a two-run triple in the fourth and scored on Colt Keith’s single. Keith had three of Detroit’s six hits.The Royals take on the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Bobby Witt Jr.’s 2 homers and 6 RBIs lead Royals past Tigers 10-3

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Massey and Salvador Perez homered as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 8-3 on Monday night for their fourth straight win.

Massey opened the scoring in the second inning with a leadoff homer, the first long ball given up this season by Tigers starter Reese Olson after 48 1/3 innings, snapping the majors’ longest homerless streak.

In his next at-bat, Massey stunned Olson with a liner off his right hip while Vinnie Pasquantino scored on catcher Jake Rogers’ throwing error for a 2-0 Royals lead.

After tossing a few warmup pitches, Olson (0-5) exited with a right hip contusion. He threw 2 2/3 innings, allowing the two runs and five hits with one walk and two strikeouts.

Perez led off the sixth with his ninth homer as the Royals greeted reliever Joey Wentz with five consecutive hits. Seven straight batters reached safely while Kansas City scored six runs to build an 8-1 lead.

Michael Wacha (4-4) allowed two runs and six hits in seven innings while walking one with three strikeouts to win his third straight start.

Kerry Carpenter hit his sixth homer in the fourth inning – a one-out solo shot into the leftfield fountains – then doubled and scored in the seventh on Colt Keith’s two-out double. Keith had three of Detroit’s seven hits.

Carpenter’s eighth-inning sacrifice fly capped the scoring.

The Tigers have scored 20 runs while losing 8-of-9 starts by Olson.

Royals LHP Jake Brentz was reinstated from the Injured List and optioned to Double-A Northwest Arkansas.

Royals designated RHP Matt Sauer for assignment and selected LHP Sam Long from Triple-A Omaha.

Tigers RHP Casey Mize (1-2, 3.50 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Alec Marsh (3-1, 2.43) Tuesday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716259319467.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run during the second inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, May 20, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Michael Massey celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run during the second inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers Monday, May 20, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Massey and Salvador Perez homered as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 8-3 on Monday night for their fourth straight win.Massey opened the scoring in the second inning with a leadoff homer, the first long ball given up this season by Tigers starter Reese Olson after 48 1/3 innings, snapping the majors’ longest homerless streak.In his next at-bat, Massey stunned Olson with a liner off his right hip while Vinnie Pasquantino scored on catcher Jake Rogers’ throwing error for a 2-0 Royals lead.After tossing a few warmup pitches, Olson (0-5) exited with a right hip contusion. He threw 2 2/3 innings, allowing the two runs and five hits with one walk and two strikeouts.Perez led off the sixth with his ninth homer as the Royals greeted reliever Joey Wentz with five consecutive hits. Seven straight batters reached safely while Kansas City scored six runs to build an 8-1 lead.Michael Wacha (4-4) allowed two runs and six hits in seven innings while walking one with three strikeouts to win his third straight start.Kerry Carpenter hit his sixth homer in the fourth inning – a one-out solo shot into the leftfield fountains – then doubled and scored in the seventh on Colt Keith’s two-out double. Keith had three of Detroit’s seven hits.Carpenter’s eighth-inning sacrifice fly capped the scoring.The Tigers have scored 20 runs while losing 8-of-9 starts by Olson.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals LHP Jake Brentz was reinstated from the Injured List and optioned to Double-A Northwest Arkansas.ROSTER MOVESRoyals designated RHP Matt Sauer for assignment and selected LHP Sam Long from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTTigers RHP Casey Mize (1-2, 3.50 ERA) opposes Royals RHP Alec Marsh (3-1, 2.43) Tuesday evening.

Massey, Perez hit homers to lead Royals in 8-3 win over Tigers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer stuck out nine, Vinnie Pasquantino hit a three-run triple and the Kansas City Royals completed a sweep of the Oakland Athletics with an 8-1 victory Sunday.

It was the third sweep of the season for Kansas City. It took until September 20 for the Royals to record their third sweep of the season last year.

Singer (4-2) tossed six innings on one-run ball, giving up six hits with one walk and nine strikeouts. It was the fifth time this season that Singer has stuck out six or more and was one shy of his season high. He has gone at least five innings in every start this season.

“That’s what we were hoping for, the early counts and low pitch counts and making them make decisions," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "Certainly couldn't ask more for that when it comes to efficiency. To have him set the tone like that and get the early lead that’s all we could hope for.”

Pasquantino hit a three-run pinch-hit triple to highlight a four-run sixth inning for the Royals. It was his first career triple in the Majors. Kansas City ended the day with five extra-base hits.

“The nice thing about the Majors is that we have a batting cage close, so from the third inning on, I’m getting hot for that one opportunity," Pasquantino said. “I’m not coming into the game for my speed; I know it’ll be a high-leverage situation, so I was able to do that today.”

Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 3 with a double, a triple and two RBIs. Maikel Garcia had a two-RBI game and extended a six-game hitting streak. Salvador Perez had a two-hit game with an RBI.

JP Sears (3-3) tossed 4 1/3 innings allowing four runs on five hits with two walks and four strikeouts.

Brent Rooker hit his 11th home run of the season with a three-run shot over the left-field bullpen. He leads the team in the category.

Tyler Soderstrom put the A’s on the board with a two-out double in the fourth. Since being recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas on Wednesday, Soderstorm has a hit in six of nine games. Max Schuemann had a two-hit game.

Trailing 2-1 in the fifth, Oakland had a chance to take the lead with bases loaded with two outs, but Singer ended the inning on a Rooker groundout. Oakland left 10 men on base on 11 hits.

“We have to do a better job of scoring on situations to keep ourselves close late in games,” Rooker said. “We just need to take advantage when we have opportunities. We are just going to keep working. The guys stepping into the box are working hard. We are just going to keep pushing through this tough stretch.”

On a 10-game road trip, the Athletics went 1-9, including an eight-game losing streak. It was also the fourth time Oakland has been swept this season.

“I think the at-bats were better the last two days. We pitched better than we had all series,” A's manager Mark Kotsay said. “Sometimes you get into these ruts where you start hitting well but not pitching and vice versa. You just have to push through them.”

&nbsp;Kansas City continues a six-game homestand with a matchup against Detroit beginning Monday night. Michael Wacha (3-4, 4.71 ERA) will take the mound for the Royals.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716169815911.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Darion Blanco runs to first after hitting a sacrifice bunt during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Sunday, May 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Darion Blanco runs to first after hitting a sacrifice bunt during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Sunday, May 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer stuck out nine, Vinnie Pasquantino hit a three-run triple and the Kansas City Royals completed a sweep of the Oakland Athletics with an 8-1 victory Sunday.It was the third sweep of the season for Kansas City. It took until September 20 for the Royals to record their third sweep of the season last year.Singer (4-2) tossed six innings on one-run ball, giving up six hits with one walk and nine strikeouts. It was the fifth time this season that Singer has stuck out six or more and was one shy of his season high. He has gone at least five innings in every start this season.“That’s what we were hoping for, the early counts and low pitch counts and making them make decisions," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "Certainly couldn't ask more for that when it comes to efficiency. To have him set the tone like that and get the early lead that’s all we could hope for.”Pasquantino hit a three-run pinch-hit triple to highlight a four-run sixth inning for the Royals. It was his first career triple in the Majors. Kansas City ended the day with five extra-base hits.“The nice thing about the Majors is that we have a batting cage close, so from the third inning on, I’m getting hot for that one opportunity," Pasquantino said. “I’m not coming into the game for my speed; I know it’ll be a high-leverage situation, so I was able to do that today.”Bobby Witt Jr. went 2 for 3 with a double, a triple and two RBIs. Maikel Garcia had a two-RBI game and extended a six-game hitting streak. Salvador Perez had a two-hit game with an RBI.JP Sears (3-3) tossed 4 1/3 innings allowing four runs on five hits with two walks and four strikeouts.Brent Rooker hit his 11th home run of the season with a three-run shot over the left-field bullpen. He leads the team in the category.Tyler Soderstrom put the A’s on the board with a two-out double in the fourth. Since being recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas on Wednesday, Soderstorm has a hit in six of nine games. Max Schuemann had a two-hit game.Trailing 2-1 in the fifth, Oakland had a chance to take the lead with bases loaded with two outs, but Singer ended the inning on a Rooker groundout. Oakland left 10 men on base on 11 hits.“We have to do a better job of scoring on situations to keep ourselves close late in games,” Rooker said. “We just need to take advantage when we have opportunities. We are just going to keep working. The guys stepping into the box are working hard. We are just going to keep pushing through this tough stretch.”On a 10-game road trip, the Athletics went 1-9, including an eight-game losing streak. It was also the fourth time Oakland has been swept this season.“I think the at-bats were better the last two days. We pitched better than we had all series,” A's manager Mark Kotsay said. “Sometimes you get into these ruts where you start hitting well but not pitching and vice versa. You just have to push through them.”UP NEXT&nbsp;Kansas City continues a six-game homestand with a matchup against Detroit beginning Monday night. Michael Wacha (3-4, 4.71 ERA) will take the mound for the Royals.

Brady Singer strikes out nine, Royals defeat A's 8-4

KANSAS CITY - Former Northwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum and the 1979 Plattsburg football team, a Class 2A state champion, were among the latest teams and individuals to be enshrined into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.

The 2024 class was enshrined during a ceremony at Union Station in Kansas City Sunday. Twelve individuals and four teams were honored in all.

McCollum was back in Missouri for the ceremony after accepting the men's basketball head coaching job at Drake University in his home state of Iowa.

Having won 12 MIAA regular season titles and four national championships during his 15 years in Maryville, the 42-year-old McCollum is humbled to be Hall of Fame material as his career continues to grow.

"I think it's just a testament to the people and the (Northwest program)," McCollum said. "My family, my assistants and all of that. Just all of the work they've put into the success and how we've invested in people and how we've made them hopefully better human beings."

One of the four teams honored Sunday was the 1979 Plattsburg football team, which went undefeated and won the Class 2A state championship.

Linebacker and tight end Richard Wade was there to speak on behalf of the team. He says that team was exactly that - a group that knew how to work well and succeed together.

"That team was a true team," Wade said. "It didn't have standout superstars. It taught us then - if you work together, you can accomplish great things. And, most of the team has gone on to be very, very successful."

The '79 Plattsburg team was head coached by Jim Freeman. The year they won state was the first year of the Show Me Bowl being played in St. Louis.

The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame also recognized nine Diamond 9 honorees. The Diamond 9 award recognizes people who "exhibited outstanding talent or made significant contributions at the high school, college or professional levels of baseball or softball."

Greg Kastner exhibited just that in his lengthy and fruitful baseball career.

A St. Joseph native, Kastner played three seasons at Missouri Western State University, where he was an honorable mention All-American pitcher, as well as a first team NAIA All-District and First Team NAIA all-area honoree.

At one point, he set single-season records at Western for for fewest hits and fewest runs allowed in a season.

Kastner signed with the Atlanta Braves organization, but an arm injury cut that dream short and set his career on a new path into coaching.

Kastner served as head baseball coach and athletic director at Bishop LeBlond High School. He coached the Golden Eagles from 1987-2016, going 386-240 (.626) in that time. His teams won 12 district titles, including seven in a row.

"Honors for me are because of the parents and the players who were a part of everything my past 40 years I spent coaching," Kastner said. "If I didn't have the players who bought into the system, they're the biggest part of this. I'm just a result of what they were able to do. This is just kind of the icing on the cake for me, now that I've retired."

On top of that, Kastner was LeBlond's A.D. for 39 years and he's been a public address announcer for over 40 years at multiple sporting events all over northwest Missouri.

Kastner says it's his P.A. work with the St. Joseph Mustangs, area high schools and other venues that give him joy since his retirement.

"It keeps me involved and young," he said. "Now that my wife (Mindy) passed away, it's really more to be involved. I do Benton, Central, Lafayette. Whoever calls, I'm there. I stay involved in all sports. Chain gangs on Friday nights at LeBlond, driving the bus."

"As long as I can stay involved and try to help kids, that gives me my greatest pleasure. I've had my day in the sun. I'd love to see them have theirs."

2024 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Class inductees Tom Watson – Missouri Sports Legend Eric Hosmer – Kansas City Royals Casey Wiegmann – Kansas City Chiefs Betty Lennox – Fort Osage High School/Louisiana Tech/WNBA Ben McCollum – Northwest Missouri State men’s basketball coach The late Dale Eshelbrenner – Tennis coach Pembroke Hill School Boys Tennis Program Mike DeArmond – Sportswriter Dr. Vincent Key – Sports Medicine Phil Dorman – Platte County High School wrestling coach Platte County High School Wrestling Era 1999-2010 Dr. Ashley Wysong – Nevada High School &amp; University of Missouri track standout 1979 Plattsburg High School State Championship Football Team 1977-1980 Hickman Mills High School Girls Basketball Era Fred Flook – William Jewell College baseball coach Porter Ellett – The Art Hains Inspiration Award

Diamond 9 honorees Anthony Caenepeel – Willard High School/Northwest Missouri State University Tim Dougherty – O’Hara High School/Rockhurst University Greg Kastner – Christian Brothers College High School/Missouri Western State University Ali Jo Rogers Locher – Medicine Lodge (Kan.) High School/University of Central Missouri Sarah Baldwin Miller – Chillicothe High School/University of Evansville/Northwest Missouri State University Jeff Niemeier – Oak Park High School/University of Kansas Haley Pypes – Platte County High School/United States Military Academy/Missouri Southern Amanda Self – Blue Springs High School/Emporia State University Jeremy Strack – Gardner (Kan.) High School/Fort Scott Community College/William Jewell College

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716149269514.jpeg" alt="Ben McCollum was enshrined into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on Sunday at a ceremony at Union Station. Now the head men's basketball coach at Drake University, McCollum won four national titles at Northwest Missouri State. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ben McCollum was enshrined into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on Sunday at a ceremony at Union Station. Now the head men's basketball coach at Drake University, McCollum won four national titles at Northwest Missouri State. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY - Former Northwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum and the 1979 Plattsburg football team, a Class 2A state champion, were among the latest teams and individuals to be enshrined into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.The 2024 class was enshrined during a ceremony at Union Station in Kansas City Sunday. Twelve individuals and four teams were honored in all.McCollum was back in Missouri for the ceremony after accepting the men's basketball head coaching job at Drake University in his home state of Iowa.Having won 12 MIAA regular season titles and four national championships during his 15 years in Maryville, the 42-year-old McCollum is humbled to be Hall of Fame material as his career continues to grow."I think it's just a testament to the people and the (Northwest program)," McCollum said. "My family, my assistants and all of that. Just all of the work they've put into the success and how we've invested in people and how we've made them hopefully better human beings."One of the four teams honored Sunday was the 1979 Plattsburg football team, which went undefeated and won the Class 2A state championship.Linebacker and tight end Richard Wade was there to speak on behalf of the team. He says that team was exactly that - a group that knew how to work well and succeed together."That team was a true team," Wade said. "It didn't have standout superstars. It taught us then - if you work together, you can accomplish great things. And, most of the team has gone on to be very, very successful."The '79 Plattsburg team was head coached by Jim Freeman. The year they won state was the first year of the Show Me Bowl being played in St. Louis.The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame also recognized nine Diamond 9 honorees. The Diamond 9 award recognizes people who "exhibited outstanding talent or made significant contributions at the high school, college or professional levels of baseball or softball."Greg Kastner exhibited just that in his lengthy and fruitful baseball career.A St. Joseph native, Kastner played three seasons at Missouri Western State University, where he was an honorable mention All-American pitcher, as well as a first team NAIA All-District and First Team NAIA all-area honoree.At one point, he set single-season records at Western for for fewest hits and fewest runs allowed in a season.Kastner signed with the Atlanta Braves organization, but an arm injury cut that dream short and set his career on a new path into coaching.Kastner served as head baseball coach and athletic director at Bishop LeBlond High School. He coached the Golden Eagles from 1987-2016, going 386-240 (.626) in that time. His teams won 12 district titles, including seven in a row."Honors for me are because of the parents and the players who were a part of everything my past 40 years I spent coaching," Kastner said. "If I didn't have the players who bought into the system, they're the biggest part of this. I'm just a result of what they were able to do. This is just kind of the icing on the cake for me, now that I've retired."On top of that, Kastner was LeBlond's A.D. for 39 years and he's been a public address announcer for over 40 years at multiple sporting events all over northwest Missouri.Kastner says it's his P.A. work with the St. Joseph Mustangs, area high schools and other venues that give him joy since his retirement."It keeps me involved and young," he said. "Now that my wife (Mindy) passed away, it's really more to be involved. I do Benton, Central, Lafayette. Whoever calls, I'm there. I stay involved in all sports. Chain gangs on Friday nights at LeBlond, driving the bus.""As long as I can stay involved and try to help kids, that gives me my greatest pleasure. I've had my day in the sun. I'd love to see them have theirs."2024 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Class inductees Tom Watson – Missouri Sports Legend Eric Hosmer – Kansas City Royals Casey Wiegmann – Kansas City Chiefs Betty Lennox – Fort Osage High School/Louisiana Tech/WNBA Ben McCollum – Northwest Missouri State men’s basketball coach The late Dale Eshelbrenner – Tennis coach Pembroke Hill School Boys Tennis Program Mike DeArmond – Sportswriter Dr. Vincent Key – Sports Medicine Phil Dorman – Platte County High School wrestling coach Platte County High School Wrestling Era 1999-2010 Dr. Ashley Wysong – Nevada High School &amp; University of Missouri track standout 1979 Plattsburg High School State Championship Football Team 1977-1980 Hickman Mills High School Girls Basketball Era Fred Flook – William Jewell College baseball coach Porter Ellett – The Art Hains Inspiration AwardDiamond 9 honorees Anthony Caenepeel – Willard High School/Northwest Missouri State University Tim Dougherty – O’Hara High School/Rockhurst University Greg Kastner – Christian Brothers College High School/Missouri Western State University Ali Jo Rogers Locher – Medicine Lodge (Kan.) High School/University of Central Missouri Sarah Baldwin Miller – Chillicothe High School/University of Evansville/Northwest Missouri State University Jeff Niemeier – Oak Park High School/University of Kansas Haley Pypes – Platte County High School/United States Military Academy/Missouri Southern Amanda Self – Blue Springs High School/Emporia State University Jeremy Strack – Gardner (Kan.) High School/Fort Scott Community College/William Jewell College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716150698519.jpeg" alt="Greg Kastner receives his Diamond 9 award at Union Station on Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Greg Kastner receives his Diamond 9 award at Union Station on Sunday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Ben McCollum, Greg Kastner among those honored at Missouri Sports Hall of Fame

In his last high school tennis match, Savannah senior Cole Horton finally summitted the MSHSAA mountain.

Hortin defeated Spencer Pompian, a junior from Clayton, 6-2, 6-0 Saturday afternoon at the Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield to secure the state title in Class 1 singles.

Cole defeated all four of his opponents soundly, never giving up more than three games in a match, and only surrendering six games total through four matches. He finishes his senior season a perfect 31-0 in singles.&nbsp;

Cole placed fourth his freshman year, third his sophomore year, second his junior year and first as a senior.

The Savages' doubles team of seniors Noah Gould and Brighton Kurre, meanwhile, placed seventh at state. In the consolation bracket, they defeated Dexter and Osage soundly to advance to Saturday’s consolations semifinals, where they beat Father Tolton, 6-3, 6-1.

Also in Class 1, Benton's Ridge Stagner placed third in singles with a 6-3, 6-3 win over Daden Deaver of Clayton.

It markes the highest ever finish by an individual singles player in Benton history.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683771200297.jpeg" alt="Cole Horton is a 2024 state champion in Class 1 singles. He went undefeated in his senior season. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Cole Horton is a 2024 state champion in Class 1 singles. He went undefeated in his senior season. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIn his last high school tennis match, Savannah senior Cole Horton finally summitted the MSHSAA mountain.Hortin defeated Spencer Pompian, a junior from Clayton, 6-2, 6-0 Saturday afternoon at the Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield to secure the state title in Class 1 singles.Cole defeated all four of his opponents soundly, never giving up more than three games in a match, and only surrendering six games total through four matches. He finishes his senior season a perfect 31-0 in singles.&nbsp;Cole placed fourth his freshman year, third his sophomore year, second his junior year and first as a senior.The Savages' doubles team of seniors Noah Gould and Brighton Kurre, meanwhile, placed seventh at state. In the consolation bracket, they defeated Dexter and Osage soundly to advance to Saturday’s consolations semifinals, where they beat Father Tolton, 6-3, 6-1.Also in Class 1, Benton's Ridge Stagner placed third in singles with a 6-3, 6-3 win over Daden Deaver of Clayton.It markes the highest ever finish by an individual singles player in Benton history.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ridge Stagner just took 3rd place in the class 1 Missouri State Tennis Tournament 6-3, 6-3 over Daden Deaver (Clayton)! This is the highest ever finish by an individual singles player at Benton High School in school history. Go Ridge!!! Go Cards!!!&mdash; BHS Tennis (@BHSTopSpin) <a href="https://twitter.com/BHSTopSpin/status/1791888063938863342?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah's Cole Horton wins state title in singles, Benton's Ridge Stagner makes history

The East Buchanan boys' track team won its third state title in school history and its first since 2005 on Saturday at the MSHSAA state championship track and field meet at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.

The Bulldogs took home the Class 2 crown with 56 team points - four points ahead of second place team Clark County.

Junior Seth Spencer took home the state title for the Bulldogs in Class 2 boys' 110 meter hurdles with a time of 14.76 seconds. He also took the top prize in 300 meter hurdles at 38.84 seconds.

Spencer, along with&nbsp;Nathaniel Fortney Aidan Hensley and Parker Conroy, locked up the state title late on Saturday with eight critical points. They scored those by taking second in the boys' 4x400 meter relay with a time of&nbsp;3:25.54.

The Bulldog boys scored nine state medals in all over the course of the two-day meet.

The East Buchanan girls fared pretty well themselves, placing sixth as a team with 30 total points. North Platte, however, scored its third consecutive state championship on the girls' side.

The Panthers were fueled by Ohio State softball signee Lindsay Ramsey, who took first in the 100 meter (11.88 seconds - tied school and KCI record), 200 meter (meet record 24.32 seconds) and 400 meter dash (meet record 55.03 seconds).

On the boys' side in Class 1, Mound City scored 45 points to secure its first ever state championship as a program. The Panthers had finished second as a team at state seven times previously, including 2021.

Mound City raked in seven state medals in all, including&nbsp; a win in the boys' 300 meter hurdles by August Meadows. Meadows, a junior, brought home four state medals in all.

Other area results - Class 1 and 2 boys and girls Class 1 girls' 100 meter dash - King City's Clare Staley placed sixth with a time of 13.02 seconds.

Class 1 girls' 200 meter dash -&nbsp;King City's Clare Staley placed fourth at 26.79 seconds. Mound City's Audrey Gibson was fifth at 26.84 seconds.

Class 1 girls' 400 meter dash - Stanberry's Marli Hilton came home third at 1:00.70.

Class 1 girls’ 4x100 meter relay -&nbsp;King City’s Kaylee Roberts, Clare Staley, Anna Boone and Hailey Wright took first at 51.09 seconds.

Class 1 girls' 300 meter hurdles - South Holt's Brianna Biondo placed seventh at 49.45 seconds in her final career varsity meet. Class 1 girls’ 4x200 meter relay - King City’s Kaylee Roberts, Clare Staley, Anna Boone and Hailey Wright took first at 1:48.26. Mound City's Audrey Gibson, Miranda Rieger, Rayla Hufford and Kayte Pankau were second at 1:51.19.

Class 1 girls' pole vault - Mound City's Ava Barnes placed second at 9 feet - 9 inches. Stanberry's Katlyn James was third at 8 feet - 9.75 inches.

Class 1 boys' pole vault - Mound City's Ernest Peters placed fourth, clearing 13 feet - 0.72 inches. Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin was close behind in fifth at 12 feet - 10 inches.

Class 1 boys' 110 meter hurdles - Mound City's August Meadows placed second at 15.65 seconds.

Class 1 boys’ 300 meter hurdles - Mound City’s August Meadows won the state title with a time of 38.91 seconds - a new meet record.

Class 1 boys' 200 meter dash - Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin placed sixth at 23.15 seconds.

Class 1 boys' 400 meter dash - Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin placed third at 50.39 seconds.

Class 1 boys' 800 meter run -&nbsp;Mound City's Keaton Zembles was seventh at 2:03.20.

Class 1 boys' 1600 meter run - Mound City's Keaton Zembles took seventh at 4:37.40.

Class 1 boys' 4x200 meter relay - Mound City's team of August Meadows, Kane Derr, Creyton Roup and Cole Gillenwater took second with a time of 1:32.62.

Class 1 boys' 4x400 meter relay - Mound City's August Meadows,&nbsp;Creyton Roup,&nbsp;Cole Gillenwater and Keaton Zembles placed second at 3:29.34. Stanberry's&nbsp;Colby McQuinn, Decker Heyde, Max Hilton and Nathaniel Giffin were third in the event at 3:30.84.

Class 2 girls' 4x100 meter relay -&nbsp;Plattsburg's Isabella Parra, Sophie Schmitten, Lilly Nelson and Leticia Howard placed third at 50.63 seconds. East Buchanan's&nbsp;Rilyn Sherwood, Anna Kenagy, Kourtney Keling and Olivia Fortney were fifth at 50.77 seconds.

Class 2 girls' 4x200 meter relay - Plattsburg's Isabella Parra, Sophie Schmitten, Lilly Nelson and Leticia Howard placed second at 1:47.67. East Buchanan's team of Layla Watkins, Anna Kenagy, Kourtney Keling and Olivia Fortney were third at 1:47.98.

Class 2 girls' 4x400 meter relay - North Platte's&nbsp;Graci Williams, Morgan Ball, Kylee Sipes and Lindsay Ramsey placed third at 4:10.11. Plattsburg's&nbsp;Isabella Parra, Alice Nelson, Sophie Schmitten and Letecia Howard were fifth at 4:13.14.

Class 2 girls' 1600 meter run - North Platte's Chloe Heckman medaled fifth with a time of 5:21.87.

Class 2 girls' 3200 meter run -&nbsp;North Platte's Chloe Heckman medaled fourth at 11:55.35.

Class 2 girls' 300 meter hurdles - Plattsburg's Sophie Schmitten placed fourth at 46.65 seconds.

Class 2 girls' pole vault - Plattsburg's Allyson Elliot placed fifth at 9 feet - 2.25 inches.

Class 2 girls' high jump - Plattsburg's Leticia Howard placed seventh, clearing 4 feet - 11 inches.

Class 2 girls' long jump - East Buchanan's Rilyn Sherwood placed fifth at 17 feet - 7.5 inches.

Class 2 girls' triple jump -&nbsp;East Buchanan's Rilyn Sherwood placed second at 35 feet - 4 inches.

Class 2 girls’ shot put - East Buchanan’s Brooklyn Johnson placed second with a throw of 38 feet-4.75 inches. She’s now a two-time state medalist in the event as a sophomore.

Class 2 boys' shot put (para) - Bishop LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a throw of 20 feet - 9.25 inches.

Class 2 boys' 100 meter dash (para) - Bishop LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a time of 19.40 seconds.

Class 2 boys' 200 meter dash (para)&nbsp;LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a time of 37.29 seconds.

Class 2 boys' 400 meter dash (para) - LeBlond's Elliott Murphy won his fourth state medal of the day with a time of 1:09.70. Murphy ends a historic high school career with 16 state medals. He'll play wheelchair basketball at Arizona this coming year.

Class 2 boys' 400 meter dash - North Platte's Corbin Britting finished eighth at 51.60 seconds.

Class 2 boys' 800 meter run - East Buchanan's Parker Conroy placed sixth at 2:00.76.

Class 2 boys' 1600 meter run - East Buchanan's Aidan Hensley placed fifth with a time of 4:31.34.

Class 2 boys' 3200 meter run - Noah Heckman came in eighth at 10:09.14.

Class 2 boys' 4x200 meter relay - Plattsburg's Wyatt Davis, Gavin Boyle, Cade Trevino and Isaia Howard placed fifth at 1:32.06.

Class 2 boys’ 4x800 meter relay - East Buchanan’s team of Phoenix Baugh, Nolan Rust, Parker Conroy and Aidan Hensley placed third with a time of 8:16.90.

Class 2 boys’ triple jump - East Buchanan’s Trevor Klein wins yet another state medal, placing fourth at 42 feet-5.25 inches. Trey Johnson placed 8th at 41 feet - 9.25 inches.

Class 2 boys' long jump - East Buchanan's Trey Johnson medaled at state for a second straight year, taking fifth in this event with a distance of 21 feet - 10 inches.

Class 2 boys' discus - Plattsburg's Korbin Dow placed seventh with a throw of 137 feet - 2 inches.

Class 2 boys' pole vault - North Platte's Coen Rainsbarger tied for third at 12 feet - 10.75 inches.

Class 2 boys' javelin - East Buchanan's Trey Johnson took fourth with a throw of 169 feet - 5 inches.

Class 2 boys' 4x400 meter relay - East Buchanan's Nathaniel Fortney, Seth Spencer, Aidan Hensley and Parker Conroy took second with a time of 3:25.54.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716155146370.jpeg" alt="The East Buchanan boys' track and field team won the 2024 Class 2 state title. Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>The East Buchanan boys' track and field team won the 2024 Class 2 state title. Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe East Buchanan boys' track team won its third state title in school history and its first since 2005 on Saturday at the MSHSAA state championship track and field meet at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.The Bulldogs took home the Class 2 crown with 56 team points - four points ahead of second place team Clark County.Junior Seth Spencer took home the state title for the Bulldogs in Class 2 boys' 110 meter hurdles with a time of 14.76 seconds. He also took the top prize in 300 meter hurdles at 38.84 seconds.Spencer, along with&nbsp;Nathaniel Fortney Aidan Hensley and Parker Conroy, locked up the state title late on Saturday with eight critical points. They scored those by taking second in the boys' 4x400 meter relay with a time of&nbsp;3:25.54.The Bulldog boys scored nine state medals in all over the course of the two-day meet.The East Buchanan girls fared pretty well themselves, placing sixth as a team with 30 total points. North Platte, however, scored its third consecutive state championship on the girls' side.The Panthers were fueled by Ohio State softball signee Lindsay Ramsey, who took first in the 100 meter (11.88 seconds - tied school and KCI record), 200 meter (meet record 24.32 seconds) and 400 meter dash (meet record 55.03 seconds).On the boys' side in Class 1, Mound City scored 45 points to secure its first ever state championship as a program. The Panthers had finished second as a team at state seven times previously, including 2021.Mound City raked in seven state medals in all, including&nbsp; a win in the boys' 300 meter hurdles by August Meadows. Meadows, a junior, brought home four state medals in all.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716155183924.jpeg" alt="The Mound City boys' take home their first state title in track and field in school history. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>The Mound City boys' take home their first state title in track and field in school history. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716155217899.jpeg" alt="It's a threepeat - the North Platte girls' track and field team have now won three consecutive state titles. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>It's a threepeat - the North Platte girls' track and field team have now won three consecutive state titles. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lindsay Ramsey is the Girls Class 2 State Champion in the 200 meter dash! She ran a school record, KCI record, and Class 2 state meet record 24.34! Congratulations, Linny! <a href="https://t.co/0x7UKj3Fj4">pic.twitter.com/0x7UKj3Fj4</a>&mdash; North Platte Panthers (@PanthersNorth) <a href="https://twitter.com/PanthersNorth/status/1791930267755594098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Other area results - Class 1 and 2 boys and girls Class 1 girls' 100 meter dash - King City's Clare Staley placed sixth with a time of 13.02 seconds.Class 1 girls' 200 meter dash -&nbsp;King City's Clare Staley placed fourth at 26.79 seconds. Mound City's Audrey Gibson was fifth at 26.84 seconds.Class 1 girls' 400 meter dash - Stanberry's Marli Hilton came home third at 1:00.70.Class 1 girls’ 4x100 meter relay -&nbsp;King City’s Kaylee Roberts, Clare Staley, Anna Boone and Hailey Wright took first at 51.09 seconds.Class 1 girls' 300 meter hurdles - South Holt's Brianna Biondo placed seventh at 49.45 seconds in her final career varsity meet. Class 1 girls’ 4x200 meter relay - King City’s Kaylee Roberts, Clare Staley, Anna Boone and Hailey Wright took first at 1:48.26. Mound City's Audrey Gibson, Miranda Rieger, Rayla Hufford and Kayte Pankau were second at 1:51.19.Class 1 girls' pole vault - Mound City's Ava Barnes placed second at 9 feet - 9 inches. Stanberry's Katlyn James was third at 8 feet - 9.75 inches.Class 1 boys' pole vault - Mound City's Ernest Peters placed fourth, clearing 13 feet - 0.72 inches. Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin was close behind in fifth at 12 feet - 10 inches.Class 1 boys' 110 meter hurdles - Mound City's August Meadows placed second at 15.65 seconds.Class 1 boys’ 300 meter hurdles - Mound City’s August Meadows won the state title with a time of 38.91 seconds - a new meet record.Class 1 boys' 200 meter dash - Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin placed sixth at 23.15 seconds.Class 1 boys' 400 meter dash - Stanberry's Nathaniel Giffin placed third at 50.39 seconds.Class 1 boys' 800 meter run -&nbsp;Mound City's Keaton Zembles was seventh at 2:03.20.Class 1 boys' 1600 meter run - Mound City's Keaton Zembles took seventh at 4:37.40.Class 1 boys' 4x200 meter relay - Mound City's team of August Meadows, Kane Derr, Creyton Roup and Cole Gillenwater took second with a time of 1:32.62.Class 1 boys' 4x400 meter relay - Mound City's August Meadows,&nbsp;Creyton Roup,&nbsp;Cole Gillenwater and Keaton Zembles placed second at 3:29.34. Stanberry's&nbsp;Colby McQuinn, Decker Heyde, Max Hilton and Nathaniel Giffin were third in the event at 3:30.84.Class 2 girls' 4x100 meter relay -&nbsp;Plattsburg's Isabella Parra, Sophie Schmitten, Lilly Nelson and Leticia Howard placed third at 50.63 seconds. East Buchanan's&nbsp;Rilyn Sherwood, Anna Kenagy, Kourtney Keling and Olivia Fortney were fifth at 50.77 seconds.Class 2 girls' 4x200 meter relay - Plattsburg's Isabella Parra, Sophie Schmitten, Lilly Nelson and Leticia Howard placed second at 1:47.67. East Buchanan's team of Layla Watkins, Anna Kenagy, Kourtney Keling and Olivia Fortney were third at 1:47.98.Class 2 girls' 4x400 meter relay - North Platte's&nbsp;Graci Williams, Morgan Ball, Kylee Sipes and Lindsay Ramsey placed third at 4:10.11. Plattsburg's&nbsp;Isabella Parra, Alice Nelson, Sophie Schmitten and Letecia Howard were fifth at 4:13.14.Class 2 girls' 1600 meter run - North Platte's Chloe Heckman medaled fifth with a time of 5:21.87.Class 2 girls' 3200 meter run -&nbsp;North Platte's Chloe Heckman medaled fourth at 11:55.35.Class 2 girls' 300 meter hurdles - Plattsburg's Sophie Schmitten placed fourth at 46.65 seconds.Class 2 girls' pole vault - Plattsburg's Allyson Elliot placed fifth at 9 feet - 2.25 inches.Class 2 girls' high jump - Plattsburg's Leticia Howard placed seventh, clearing 4 feet - 11 inches.Class 2 girls' long jump - East Buchanan's Rilyn Sherwood placed fifth at 17 feet - 7.5 inches.Class 2 girls' triple jump -&nbsp;East Buchanan's Rilyn Sherwood placed second at 35 feet - 4 inches.Class 2 girls’ shot put - East Buchanan’s Brooklyn Johnson placed second with a throw of 38 feet-4.75 inches. She’s now a two-time state medalist in the event as a sophomore.Class 2 boys' shot put (para) - Bishop LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a throw of 20 feet - 9.25 inches.Class 2 boys' 100 meter dash (para) - Bishop LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a time of 19.40 seconds.Class 2 boys' 200 meter dash (para)&nbsp;LeBlond's Elliott Murphy took first with a time of 37.29 seconds.Class 2 boys' 400 meter dash (para) - LeBlond's Elliott Murphy won his fourth state medal of the day with a time of 1:09.70. Murphy ends a historic high school career with 16 state medals. He'll play wheelchair basketball at Arizona this coming year.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Elliott M finishes his high school track and field career with 13 State Champion medals and 2 silvers! He set 2 new school records on Sat! A super-competitive athlete and a supportive teammate, he has left his mark on LB Track &amp; Field! We’ll miss you E-Man! <a href="https://twitter.com/SJCA_home?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJCA_home</a> <a href="https://t.co/wKdZG7NvbF">pic.twitter.com/wKdZG7NvbF</a>&mdash; LeBlond Track &amp; Field (@LBtrack_field) <a href="https://twitter.com/LBtrack_field/status/1792302021187399772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Class 2 boys' 400 meter dash - North Platte's Corbin Britting finished eighth at 51.60 seconds.Class 2 boys' 800 meter run - East Buchanan's Parker Conroy placed sixth at 2:00.76.Class 2 boys' 1600 meter run - East Buchanan's Aidan Hensley placed fifth with a time of 4:31.34.Class 2 boys' 3200 meter run - Noah Heckman came in eighth at 10:09.14.Class 2 boys' 4x200 meter relay - Plattsburg's Wyatt Davis, Gavin Boyle, Cade Trevino and Isaia Howard placed fifth at 1:32.06.Class 2 boys’ 4x800 meter relay - East Buchanan’s team of Phoenix Baugh, Nolan Rust, Parker Conroy and Aidan Hensley placed third with a time of 8:16.90.Class 2 boys’ triple jump - East Buchanan’s Trevor Klein wins yet another state medal, placing fourth at 42 feet-5.25 inches. Trey Johnson placed 8th at 41 feet - 9.25 inches.Class 2 boys' long jump - East Buchanan's Trey Johnson medaled at state for a second straight year, taking fifth in this event with a distance of 21 feet - 10 inches.Class 2 boys' discus - Plattsburg's Korbin Dow placed seventh with a throw of 137 feet - 2 inches.Class 2 boys' pole vault - North Platte's Coen Rainsbarger tied for third at 12 feet - 10.75 inches.Class 2 boys' javelin - East Buchanan's Trey Johnson took fourth with a throw of 169 feet - 5 inches.Class 2 boys' 4x400 meter relay - East Buchanan's Nathaniel Fortney, Seth Spencer, Aidan Hensley and Parker Conroy took second with a time of 3:25.54.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan and Mound City boys, North Platte girls win state titles in track Saturday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo struck out 10 and earned his American League-leading seventh victory as the Kansas City Royals beat the Oakland Athletics 5-3 Saturday night.

The Royals improved to 28-19, nine games over .500 for the first time since the end of the 2015 season, when they went on to win the World Series. Kansas City also claimed its eighth series win of the season, a mark the Royals didn't reach until mid-September in 2023.

“With this pitching staff, we don't need much,” second baseman Michael Massey said. "When a hitter is on a hot streak, at what point is he just good and not on a hot streak? I feel like that's where we're starting to get as a team. It's not really a streak. We're just playing the way we're supposed to play.

Oakland lost its seventh straight game, the team's longest skid of the season.

Lugo (7-1) allowed two runs on six hits with a walk in 5 2/3 innings. The 34-year-old right-hander had his second straight double-digit strikeout game and became the eighth Royals pitcher to accomplish that feat. James McArthur picked up his 11th save.

“The starter's job is to pitch deep into the game,” he said. “When (John) Schreiber's having to go multiple innings and three relievers are used, I feel like the standard should be to pitch deeper and to take the load off (the bullpen).”

"You feel really good that he's going to keep you in it” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. ”His stuff looked really good. The home run pitch was just him not getting the ball where he wanted it.

“This was a good test for Lugo. This was the first night when it was really warm and humid, and you could see that they made him work.”

Ross Stripling (1-8) picked up his league-leading eighth loss. The 34-year-old righty allowed four runs on nine hits with no walks and two strikeouts in five-plus innings.

The Athletics had plenty of chances, pounding out 11 hits, but they only pushed across three runs.

“We just didn't get the big hit,” Oakland manager Mark Kotsay said. “They were able to capitalize with two outs. But, offensively, there were better signs.”

The Royals got to Stripling for a pair of runs in the first. Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. opened with singles. After the runners advanced to second and third on a groundout, Salvador Perez drove in both with a single to left field.

“I don't care when we score runs,” Quatraro said, “but it's better to get out to a lead. We knew Stripling was going to be tough.”

The Athletics answered in the second. Zack Gelof legged out a double before Seth Brown hit his fourth homer of the season, a 445-foot shot to center field to tie the score.

The Royals regained the lead in the fifth when Vinnie Pasquantino snapped an 0-for-14 slump with a two-out line drive single that scored Garcia. The Royals added to the lead in the sixth on an RBI single by Nelson Velazquez that scored Massey, who led off with a double.

The Athletics closed within a run on an RBI single by Brent Rooker in the seventh. But the Royals got that run back on a leadoff home run by Kyle Isbel, his fourth, in the bottom of the seventh.

The Athletics and Royals will close their three-game series Sunday afternoon. The Athletics will send LHP JP Sears (3-2, 3.96 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (3-2, 2.84 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716090494222.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Saturday, May 18, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Seth Lugo throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Saturday, May 18, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo.(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Seth Lugo struck out 10 and earned his American League-leading seventh victory as the Kansas City Royals beat the Oakland Athletics 5-3 Saturday night.The Royals improved to 28-19, nine games over .500 for the first time since the end of the 2015 season, when they went on to win the World Series. Kansas City also claimed its eighth series win of the season, a mark the Royals didn't reach until mid-September in 2023.“With this pitching staff, we don't need much,” second baseman Michael Massey said. "When a hitter is on a hot streak, at what point is he just good and not on a hot streak? I feel like that's where we're starting to get as a team. It's not really a streak. We're just playing the way we're supposed to play.“We're just a good team.”Oakland lost its seventh straight game, the team's longest skid of the season.Lugo (7-1) allowed two runs on six hits with a walk in 5 2/3 innings. The 34-year-old right-hander had his second straight double-digit strikeout game and became the eighth Royals pitcher to accomplish that feat. James McArthur picked up his 11th save.But Lugo was not satisfied.“The starter's job is to pitch deep into the game,” he said. “When (John) Schreiber's having to go multiple innings and three relievers are used, I feel like the standard should be to pitch deeper and to take the load off (the bullpen).”His manager was much more complimentary."You feel really good that he's going to keep you in it” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. ”His stuff looked really good. The home run pitch was just him not getting the ball where he wanted it.“This was a good test for Lugo. This was the first night when it was really warm and humid, and you could see that they made him work.”Ross Stripling (1-8) picked up his league-leading eighth loss. The 34-year-old righty allowed four runs on nine hits with no walks and two strikeouts in five-plus innings.The Athletics had plenty of chances, pounding out 11 hits, but they only pushed across three runs.“We just didn't get the big hit,” Oakland manager Mark Kotsay said. “They were able to capitalize with two outs. But, offensively, there were better signs.”The Royals got to Stripling for a pair of runs in the first. Maikel Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. opened with singles. After the runners advanced to second and third on a groundout, Salvador Perez drove in both with a single to left field.“I don't care when we score runs,” Quatraro said, “but it's better to get out to a lead. We knew Stripling was going to be tough.”The Athletics answered in the second. Zack Gelof legged out a double before Seth Brown hit his fourth homer of the season, a 445-foot shot to center field to tie the score.The Royals regained the lead in the fifth when Vinnie Pasquantino snapped an 0-for-14 slump with a two-out line drive single that scored Garcia. The Royals added to the lead in the sixth on an RBI single by Nelson Velazquez that scored Massey, who led off with a double.The Athletics closed within a run on an RBI single by Brent Rooker in the seventh. But the Royals got that run back on a leadoff home run by Kyle Isbel, his fourth, in the bottom of the seventh.UP NEXT:The Athletics and Royals will close their three-game series Sunday afternoon. The Athletics will send LHP JP Sears (3-2, 3.96 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (3-2, 2.84 ERA).

Seth Lugo claims AL-leading 7th win as the Royals beat A's 5-3 and move 9 games over .500

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans allowed two hits in seven scoreless innings, Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia homered and the Kansas City Royals beat Oakland 6-2 on Friday night to extend the Athletics losing streak to a season-high six.

Ragans (3-3) walked two and struck out seven, rebounding from a 9-3 loss at the Los Angeles Angels when he allowed seven runs and eight hits. He has three scoreless starts of at least six innings this season.

Chris Stratton and Matt Sauers finished the four-hitter, the ninth time Oakland has been held to four hits or fewer.

Oakland has been outscored 36-6 during its losing streak, which dropped the A's to 19-28.

“We just need to continue to grind at-bats out and find some offense,” Oakland manager Mark Kotsay said.

Kansas City went ahead in the first when Salvador Perez hit a two-out, run-scoring infield single. Perez was called out by first base umpire Ryan Additon, but a video review ruled Perez beat the throw from third baseman Brett Harris.

Massey hit a two-run homer off Austin Adams and Maikel Garcia a three-run drive against Brandon Bielak in a five-run sixth.

“We were only up 1-0 going into that inning so that was huge,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Massey gets the homer and things went from there, it was a huge spot in the game.”

Mitch Spence (3-2) gave up one run and five hits in 4 2/3 innings.

“I thought he did a nice job tonight,” Kotsay said. “To only give up one run over 4 2/3 innings and throw 75 pitches, that's a great outing and what was expected. I thought he'd be able to do that.”

Shea Langeliers hit a two-run homer off Sauers in the ninth, his 10th this season.

RHP Ross Stripling (1-7, 4.98 ERA) takes the mound for Oakland on Saturday while Kansas City starts RHP Seth Lugo (6-1, 1.66),

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716010995507.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia watches his three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Friday, May 17, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Maikel Garcia watches his three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Oakland Athletics Friday, May 17, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans allowed two hits in seven scoreless innings, Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia homered and the Kansas City Royals beat Oakland 6-2 on Friday night to extend the Athletics losing streak to a season-high six.Ragans (3-3) walked two and struck out seven, rebounding from a 9-3 loss at the Los Angeles Angels when he allowed seven runs and eight hits. He has three scoreless starts of at least six innings this season.Chris Stratton and Matt Sauers finished the four-hitter, the ninth time Oakland has been held to four hits or fewer.Oakland has been outscored 36-6 during its losing streak, which dropped the A's to 19-28.“We just need to continue to grind at-bats out and find some offense,” Oakland manager Mark Kotsay said.Kansas City went ahead in the first when Salvador Perez hit a two-out, run-scoring infield single. Perez was called out by first base umpire Ryan Additon, but a video review ruled Perez beat the throw from third baseman Brett Harris.Massey hit a two-run homer off Austin Adams and Maikel Garcia a three-run drive against Brandon Bielak in a five-run sixth.“We were only up 1-0 going into that inning so that was huge,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “Massey gets the homer and things went from there, it was a huge spot in the game.”Mitch Spence (3-2) gave up one run and five hits in 4 2/3 innings.“I thought he did a nice job tonight,” Kotsay said. “To only give up one run over 4 2/3 innings and throw 75 pitches, that's a great outing and what was expected. I thought he'd be able to do that.”Shea Langeliers hit a two-run homer off Sauers in the ninth, his 10th this season.UP NEXTRHP Ross Stripling (1-7, 4.98 ERA) takes the mound for Oakland on Saturday while Kansas City starts RHP Seth Lugo (6-1, 1.66),

Ragans throws 7 scoreless innings as Royals win 6-2 and extend A's skid to season-high 6

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/masters-2024-augusta-national-8f9bcddc2f3c8aa4298a83c016286918">Masters champion Scottie Scheffler</a>&nbsp;was arrested Friday morning on his way to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-pga-championship-dc43b1facb4b7c5e6a8c9b29159a6ae2">PGA Championship</a>, with stunning images showing him handcuffed as he was taken to jail for not following police orders during a pedestrian fatality investigation.

In a span of four hours, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-tiger-woods-players-championship-387cadc831f8bf7f63e00673166d6add">top-ranked golfer</a>&nbsp;in the world was arrested wearing gym shorts and a T-shirt, dressed in an orange jail shirt for his mug shot, stretched in a jail cell to stay loose and returned to Valhalla Golf Club dressed and ready for his 10:08 a.m. tee time.

Louisville Metro Police Department said Scheffler was booked on four charges, including second-degree assault of a police officer after his vehicle dragged an officer to the ground.

Scheffler said the incident was a “big misunderstanding amid a chaotic situation.”

“I feel like my head is still spinning. I can't really explain what happened this morning,” Scheffler said after remarkably posting another 5-under 66 that kept him in the mix for a second straight major championship.