KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — MJ Melendez hit his third home run of the series, a two-run drive in a three-run seventh inning as the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat Chicago White Sox 5-3 on Sunday for a four-game sweep.

“The way these all four of these games transpired — they were all close in the middle to late part of the game,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “To stick with it is really cool to see."

Chicago started 1-9 for just the second time in the 124-year history of the franchise after going 0-10 in 1968.

“We had a lot of opportunities to score,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol aid, “and we didn’t capitalize with the big hit. We should have brought that game home.”

Chicago ended a 19-inning scoreless streak in the fourth and led 3-0 in the fifth before Hunter Renroe's two-run homer off starter Garrett Crochet.

Melendez hit a two-run homer in the sixth off Deivi García (0-2) for a 4-3 lead, his third go-ahead hit of the series. Melendez flipped his bat in triumph.

He had a go-ahead, eight-inning single on Friday and a tiebreaking, seventh-inning homer on Saturday.

“Obviously, a little bit of luck right there," Melendez said. "I’m just thankful that I’m able to help do something to help the team win. It’s just pretty crazy.”

Kansas City added a run when Kyle Isbel reached on what was scored on an infield hit when reliever Dominic Leone failed to catch the throw to first from second baseman Lenyn Sosa.

John Schreiber (1-0) pitched a one-hit seventh and James McArthur got three outs for his second save as Kansas City completed its first four-game sweep since 2021.

Dominic Fletcher hit an RBI double in the fourth off Alec Marsh and scored on Braden Shewmake’s sacrifice fly, just the third multi-run inning of the season for the White Sox.

Royals: LHP Cole Ragans (0-1, 1.46 ERA) opens Tuesday's series against visiting Houston.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712547410832.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Hunter Renfroe (16) celebrates after his two-run home run with Bobby Witt Jr., left, during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, April 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Hunter Renfroe (16) celebrates after his two-run home run with Bobby Witt Jr., left, during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox in Kansas City, Mo., Sunday, April 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — MJ Melendez hit his third home run of the series, a two-run drive in a three-run seventh inning as the Kansas City Royals rallied to beat Chicago White Sox 5-3 on Sunday for a four-game sweep.“The way these all four of these games transpired — they were all close in the middle to late part of the game,” Kansas City manager Matt Quatraro said. “To stick with it is really cool to see."Chicago started 1-9 for just the second time in the 124-year history of the franchise after going 0-10 in 1968.“We had a lot of opportunities to score,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol aid, “and we didn’t capitalize with the big hit. We should have brought that game home.”Chicago ended a 19-inning scoreless streak in the fourth and led 3-0 in the fifth before Hunter Renroe's two-run homer off starter Garrett Crochet.Melendez hit a two-run homer in the sixth off Deivi García (0-2) for a 4-3 lead, his third go-ahead hit of the series. Melendez flipped his bat in triumph.He had a go-ahead, eight-inning single on Friday and a tiebreaking, seventh-inning homer on Saturday.“Obviously, a little bit of luck right there," Melendez said. "I’m just thankful that I’m able to help do something to help the team win. It’s just pretty crazy.”Kansas City added a run when Kyle Isbel reached on what was scored on an infield hit when reliever Dominic Leone failed to catch the throw to first from second baseman Lenyn Sosa.John Schreiber (1-0) pitched a one-hit seventh and James McArthur got three outs for his second save as Kansas City completed its first four-game sweep since 2021.Dominic Fletcher hit an RBI double in the fourth off Alec Marsh and scored on Braden Shewmake’s sacrifice fly, just the third multi-run inning of the season for the White Sox.UP NEXTRoyals: LHP Cole Ragans (0-1, 1.46 ERA) opens Tuesday's series against visiting Houston.

Melendez's third home run of series lifts Royals over White Sox 5-3 for 4-game sweep

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha threw seven innings of two-hit ball and MJ Melendez launched a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Chicago White Sox 3-0 on Saturday night.

Wacha (1-0) struck out eight, walked one and allowed just one runner past first base. Royals pitchers have eight quality starts, most in the majors.

“I felt like we had a good mix going,” Wacha said. “We were getting ahead and staying on the attack mode. Working both sides of the plate and getting weak contact at times. We were efficient and on the attack.”

Melendez drove Chris Flexen’s first-pitch fastball through a 30 mph crosswind to straightaway center field, snapping a scoreless tie in the seventh.

“That ball was really hit well,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He got a first-pitch heater and he didn’t miss it.”

Center fielder Dominic Fletcher appeared to tip the ball as it struck the top of the fence, sending it over for Melendez’s second homer of the year and second in three games.

“I really didn’t think anyone would be able to get it out that far, with that wind,” Fletcher said. “Going back, I jumped up, felt it hit my glove, but wasn’t quite sure if it hit the wall first. Just going hard, trying to make a play. It was an unfortunate break for us.”

After the game, White Sox manager Pedro Grifol acknowledged he should have asked for a crew chief review on whether the ball hit the wall first, which would have made it a ground-rule double.

“From our angle it looked like the ball hit the glove and went out,” Grifol said. “So, I didn’t go out there. But after looking at it, I should have.”

Maikel Garcia knocked in another run with an infield single as Kansas City batted around in the inning.

Flexen (0-2) permitted a pair of singles to start the first, then retired 12 straight. He gave up three runs on six hits and two walks in 6 1/3 innings, his longest outing since July 4, 2022.

Both starters worked quickly; the first five innings were played in 57 minutes.

Nick Anderson allowed one hit in the eighth and Chris Stratton completed the three-hitter for his first save since July 19 last year with St. Louis.

Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. each had a pair of singles for Kansas City (5-4), which climbed above .500 for the first time since April 9, 2022.

Chicago (1-7) was shut out for the third time already this season. The White Sox have 13 runs, their fewest through eight games since scoring only eight in 1968.

“We couldn’t get anything going offensively,” Grifol said. “There’s some urgency. A 1-7 start’s not good.”

White Sox LHP Garrett Crochet (1-1, 1.38 ERA) faces Royals RHP Alec Marsh (1-0, 1.29) on Sunday.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm with pregame at 12:30 on 680 KFEQ.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712459694058.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) is congratulated by Salvador Perez (13) after hitting a two-run home run against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, April 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) is congratulated by Salvador Perez (13) after hitting a two-run home run against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning of a baseball game in Kansas City, Mo., Saturday, April 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha threw seven innings of two-hit ball and MJ Melendez launched a two-run homer as the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Chicago White Sox 3-0 on Saturday night.Wacha (1-0) struck out eight, walked one and allowed just one runner past first base. Royals pitchers have eight quality starts, most in the majors.“I felt like we had a good mix going,” Wacha said. “We were getting ahead and staying on the attack mode. Working both sides of the plate and getting weak contact at times. We were efficient and on the attack.”Melendez drove Chris Flexen’s first-pitch fastball through a 30 mph crosswind to straightaway center field, snapping a scoreless tie in the seventh.“That ball was really hit well,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He got a first-pitch heater and he didn’t miss it.”Center fielder Dominic Fletcher appeared to tip the ball as it struck the top of the fence, sending it over for Melendez’s second homer of the year and second in three games.“I really didn’t think anyone would be able to get it out that far, with that wind,” Fletcher said. “Going back, I jumped up, felt it hit my glove, but wasn’t quite sure if it hit the wall first. Just going hard, trying to make a play. It was an unfortunate break for us.”After the game, White Sox manager Pedro Grifol acknowledged he should have asked for a crew chief review on whether the ball hit the wall first, which would have made it a ground-rule double.“From our angle it looked like the ball hit the glove and went out,” Grifol said. “So, I didn’t go out there. But after looking at it, I should have.”Maikel Garcia knocked in another run with an infield single as Kansas City batted around in the inning.Flexen (0-2) permitted a pair of singles to start the first, then retired 12 straight. He gave up three runs on six hits and two walks in 6 1/3 innings, his longest outing since July 4, 2022.Both starters worked quickly; the first five innings were played in 57 minutes.Nick Anderson allowed one hit in the eighth and Chris Stratton completed the three-hitter for his first save since July 19 last year with St. Louis.Garcia and Bobby Witt Jr. each had a pair of singles for Kansas City (5-4), which climbed above .500 for the first time since April 9, 2022.Chicago (1-7) was shut out for the third time already this season. The White Sox have 13 runs, their fewest through eight games since scoring only eight in 1968.“We couldn’t get anything going offensively,” Grifol said. “There’s some urgency. A 1-7 start’s not good.”UP NEXTWhite Sox LHP Garrett Crochet (1-1, 1.38 ERA) faces Royals RHP Alec Marsh (1-0, 1.29) on Sunday.&nbsp; First pitch is at 1:10pm with pregame at 12:30 on 680 KFEQ.

Melendez’s 2-run homer backs Wacha in Royals' 3-0 shutout over White Sox

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — MJ Melendez broke an eighth-inning tie with a single to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 2-1 on Friday night.

With one out, Melendez hit a soft liner to left off Michael Kopech (0-1) to score pinch-runner Dairon Blanco.

Chris Stratton (1-0) worked a scoreless eighth for the victory.

In the ninth inning, Luis Robert Jr. doubled down the left-field line with one out, pulling up lame at second with a left hip flexor injury. Robert suffered a similar injury in 2021, missing over three months of the season.

James McArthur entered the game with the tying run at second and induced an ending double-play grounder for his first save.

“It was a hard-fought game,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. “We really didn’t get much going until the later innings. We had a couple of opportunities to do something and didn’t capitalize.”

The Royals opened the scoring in the first inning on the first of Salvador Pérez’s three hits, a two-out RBI double off the top of the wall in center. Pérez is tied for second in the American League with nine RBIs.

Melendez, Pérez, and Bobby Witt Jr. rank among AL leaders in slugging, homers, and OPS.

“Last season, I faced immense pressure to perform at the plate, which affected my mental preparation” Melendez said. “I made adjustments in the second half of the season and worked on my swing during the offseason.”

Gavin Sheets tied it with a leadoff homer in the second, lifting starter Brady Singer’s slider 391 feet down the line in right.

After the homer, Singer retired the next 15 hitters consecutively on 48 pitches, striking out four and getting nine ground balls.

“We made a lot of quick outs,” Grifol said. “Got to give credit to Singer. He was really pounding the strike zone, keeping the ball down (with) heavy sink. He was a ground-ball machine today.”

Singer faced two more than the minimum in completing 6 1/3 innings, while allowing a run on two hits and one walk with four strikeouts.

Royals starters lead the majors with seven quality starts.

White Sox starter Erick Fedde worked five innings, allowing a run on six hits and two walks, with four strikeouts. He exited in the sixth after allowing a leadoff hit to Pérez and a walk to Melendez.

Reliever John Brebbia retired the next two batters, leaving after injuring his right calf while fielding a soft grounder. Steven Wilson struck out Hunter Renfroe to end the threat, stranding a runner at third.

Chicago has played five one-run games, losing four.

White Sox RHP Chris Flexen (0-1, 8.31) opposes Royals RHP Michael Wacha (0-0, 5.40) Saturday night.&nbsp;

The next broadcasted game on 680 KFEQ will be on Sunday, with first pitch at 1:10pm and pregame at 12:30.&nbsp; On Saturday, KFEQ will air the NCAA Tournament Final Four.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712374551428.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a two-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez celebrates as he crosses the plate after hitting a two-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — MJ Melendez broke an eighth-inning tie with a single to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Chicago White Sox 2-1 on Friday night.With one out, Melendez hit a soft liner to left off Michael Kopech (0-1) to score pinch-runner Dairon Blanco.Chris Stratton (1-0) worked a scoreless eighth for the victory.In the ninth inning, Luis Robert Jr. doubled down the left-field line with one out, pulling up lame at second with a left hip flexor injury. Robert suffered a similar injury in 2021, missing over three months of the season.James McArthur entered the game with the tying run at second and induced an ending double-play grounder for his first save.“It was a hard-fought game,” White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said. “We really didn’t get much going until the later innings. We had a couple of opportunities to do something and didn’t capitalize.”The Royals opened the scoring in the first inning on the first of Salvador Pérez’s three hits, a two-out RBI double off the top of the wall in center. Pérez is tied for second in the American League with nine RBIs.Melendez, Pérez, and Bobby Witt Jr. rank among AL leaders in slugging, homers, and OPS.“Last season, I faced immense pressure to perform at the plate, which affected my mental preparation” Melendez said. “I made adjustments in the second half of the season and worked on my swing during the offseason.”Gavin Sheets tied it with a leadoff homer in the second, lifting starter Brady Singer’s slider 391 feet down the line in right.After the homer, Singer retired the next 15 hitters consecutively on 48 pitches, striking out four and getting nine ground balls.“We made a lot of quick outs,” Grifol said. “Got to give credit to Singer. He was really pounding the strike zone, keeping the ball down (with) heavy sink. He was a ground-ball machine today.”Singer faced two more than the minimum in completing 6 1/3 innings, while allowing a run on two hits and one walk with four strikeouts.Royals starters lead the majors with seven quality starts.White Sox starter Erick Fedde worked five innings, allowing a run on six hits and two walks, with four strikeouts. He exited in the sixth after allowing a leadoff hit to Pérez and a walk to Melendez.Reliever John Brebbia retired the next two batters, leaving after injuring his right calf while fielding a soft grounder. Steven Wilson struck out Hunter Renfroe to end the threat, stranding a runner at third.Chicago has played five one-run games, losing four.UP NEXTWhite Sox RHP Chris Flexen (0-1, 8.31) opposes Royals RHP Michael Wacha (0-0, 5.40) Saturday night.&nbsp;The next broadcasted game on 680 KFEQ will be on Sunday, with first pitch at 1:10pm and pregame at 12:30.&nbsp; On Saturday, KFEQ will air the NCAA Tournament Final Four.

MJ Melendez breaks 8th inning tie with single, Royals beat White Sox 2-1

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nelson Velázquez and MJ Melendez each homered and drove in two runs, leading Seth Lugo and the Kansas City Royals to a 10-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Thursday night.

Right fielder Hunter Renfroe threw out the potential tying run at the plate in the sixth inning before Kansas City broke it open with eight runs in the seventh.

Velázquez drove in the first two runs of the game with a single and a homer. Lugo (1-0) allowed one run and eight hits in 6 2/3 innings for his first win with the Royals.

It was the latest quality outing by one of Kansas City's starters, who have a 1.43 ERA.

Lugo struck out three and walked two. Angel Zerpa retired Andrew Benintendi with a runner on second to end the seventh, preserving a one-run lead.

Michael Soroka (0-1) gave up two runs and six hits over six innings in his second start for the White Sox.

The Royals take on the White Sox again Friday evening with first pitch at 6;40. You can listen to the game on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712284440499.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Nelson Velázquez watches his solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Nelson Velázquez watches his solo home run during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Thursday, April 4, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nelson Velázquez and MJ Melendez each homered and drove in two runs, leading Seth Lugo and the Kansas City Royals to a 10-1 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Thursday night.Right fielder Hunter Renfroe threw out the potential tying run at the plate in the sixth inning before Kansas City broke it open with eight runs in the seventh.Velázquez drove in the first two runs of the game with a single and a homer. Lugo (1-0) allowed one run and eight hits in 6 2/3 innings for his first win with the Royals.It was the latest quality outing by one of Kansas City's starters, who have a 1.43 ERA.Lugo struck out three and walked two. Angel Zerpa retired Andrew Benintendi with a runner on second to end the seventh, preserving a one-run lead.Michael Soroka (0-1) gave up two runs and six hits over six innings in his second start for the White Sox.The Royals take on the White Sox again Friday evening with first pitch at 6;40. You can listen to the game on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Royals score 8 runs in 7th and beat White Sox 10-1 behind Velázquez, Melendez and Lugo

Lafayette set the tone from the beginning with six runs in the first inning and a strong start from pitcher Halen Jonas, leading the Irish to a 14-3 win over Bishop LeBlond on Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.

The Irish (6-2) drew 13 free passes in the win - 10 of those being walks. Lafayette also scored three unearned runs, benefitting from three LeBlond errors and three total balks by LeBlond pitchers.

Lafayette led 8-0 in the second and then 11-0 in the fourth inning before LeBlond (0-5) scored its first two runs in the fifth and then one in the bottom of the sixth.

The Irish scored three insurance runs in the top of the sixth to put themselves in run rule position.

Eli Castle led the way at the plate for Lafayette, going 2-for-3 with a double, four RBIs and a pair of stolen bases.

Halen Jonas, Jake McQuiston, Ayden Hardy and Walker Cave all scored twice in the win.

"We didn't swing at a lot of pitches out of the zone," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "We stayed consistent with it, given the circumstance and keep moving in the right direction offensively."

On the hill, Jonas was dialed in, striking out six of his 10 batters faced, allowing only one hit and one walk.

"Honestly, I didn't think I was going to do all that good," he said. "My arm was hurting a lot. I got here, didn't have the best warmups and then, as a team, we all kind of locked in last moment, went in there and took over."

Cave pitched the middle 2.2 innings, while Drake Losson closed it out with a pair of strikeouts in the sixth to end the game via run rule.

After a 2-2 start to the season, with early losses to stout Benton and Savannah squads, Lafayette has now reeled off four straight wins - all against MEC competition.&nbsp;

"We're starting to kind of find our groove," Jansen noted. "We're hoping we've found a group of young men that we can kind of continue to gel and build chemistry through. Yeah, I think we're starting to find our groove offensively."&nbsp;

Lafayette is home to East Buchanan on Monday at 4:30. LeBlond visits Plattsburg on Monday at 4:30 as well.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712277494713.jpeg" alt="Halen Jonas got the win on the mound for Lafayette, striking out six batters in 2.2 innings. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Halen Jonas got the win on the mound for Lafayette, striking out six batters in 2.2 innings. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette set the tone from the beginning with six runs in the first inning and a strong start from pitcher Halen Jonas, leading the Irish to a 14-3 win over Bishop LeBlond on Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.The Irish (6-2) drew 13 free passes in the win - 10 of those being walks. Lafayette also scored three unearned runs, benefitting from three LeBlond errors and three total balks by LeBlond pitchers.Lafayette led 8-0 in the second and then 11-0 in the fourth inning before LeBlond (0-5) scored its first two runs in the fifth and then one in the bottom of the sixth.The Irish scored three insurance runs in the top of the sixth to put themselves in run rule position.Eli Castle led the way at the plate for Lafayette, going 2-for-3 with a double, four RBIs and a pair of stolen bases.Halen Jonas, Jake McQuiston, Ayden Hardy and Walker Cave all scored twice in the win."We didn't swing at a lot of pitches out of the zone," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "We stayed consistent with it, given the circumstance and keep moving in the right direction offensively."On the hill, Jonas was dialed in, striking out six of his 10 batters faced, allowing only one hit and one walk."Honestly, I didn't think I was going to do all that good," he said. "My arm was hurting a lot. I got here, didn't have the best warmups and then, as a team, we all kind of locked in last moment, went in there and took over."Cave pitched the middle 2.2 innings, while Drake Losson closed it out with a pair of strikeouts in the sixth to end the game via run rule.After a 2-2 start to the season, with early losses to stout Benton and Savannah squads, Lafayette has now reeled off four straight wins - all against MEC competition.&nbsp;"We're starting to kind of find our groove," Jansen noted. "We're hoping we've found a group of young men that we can kind of continue to gel and build chemistry through. Yeah, I think we're starting to find our groove offensively."&nbsp;Lafayette is home to East Buchanan on Monday at 4:30. LeBlond visits Plattsburg on Monday at 4:30 as well.Photos<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712278956228.jpeg" alt="Gavin Weiland." />
 <figcaption>Gavin Weiland.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712278989682.jpeg" alt="Quentin Leake." />
 <figcaption>Quentin Leake.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279013041.jpeg" alt="Walker Cave touches home." />
 <figcaption>Walker Cave touches home.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279039093.jpeg" alt="Landyn Woolery." />
 <figcaption>Landyn Woolery.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279062343.jpeg" alt="Samuel Page." />
 <figcaption>Samuel Page.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279827366.jpeg" alt="Eli Castle." />
 <figcaption>Eli Castle.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette stays on a roll with big win over Bishop LeBlond Thursday

SAVANNAH -&nbsp;A major expansion project is underway at Savannah High School - a project that will give the school new classrooms and improved athletic facilities.

The upgrades include turf for the football field, a new, eight-lane track and the addition of a video scoreboard.

Savannah Athletic Director and head football coach Anthony Hays says this $20 million project, however, spans well beyond athletics.

"That's going to a new performing arts center," Hays told KFEQ Radio. "The renovation of our game gym, the addition of a new auxiliary gym, which will be awesome on the athletics side of stuff where we can maybe play sub varsity games in one gym, high school games in another. Make our nights and tournaments go by a little quicker."

"Also new athletic locker rooms and P.E. locker rooms."

Savannah launched a $2 million fundraiser back in January to help pay for the track and turf field. Hays says about $1.2 million of that has already been raised.

The plan is to break ground on the field and track project this summer.&nbsp;Hays says the field project, classroom expansion and gym revamp is scheduled to be done by the start of the coming school year.

There'll also be new locker rooms and a new film room.

A new, two-story press box is slated to be done within a month or two. The new performing arts center may take until January.

Hays says the school district wants the very best for its students.

"We want all of our kids to have the very best we can offer them," he said. "To see it happening shows you the investment of our school district and community into the next generation, and that's pretty neat to see in our small town."

While the upgrades to the turf, press box and scoreboard will enhance the Friday night football atmosphere,&nbsp;Hays says the soccer teams stand to gain from an upgraded field as well.

"(Soccer) is in a facility right now that doesn't have lights, running water, a true grand stands or even bathrooms," he said, "so they're going to move their games to the stadium. So, I think that'll give them a pretty neat opportunity and venue for their games."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712181286421.jpeg" alt="Savannah athletic director and head football coach Anthony Hays shows the progress being made on the high school's new, two-story press box, which will be completed in the next 4-8 weeks. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah athletic director and head football coach Anthony Hays shows the progress being made on the high school's new, two-story press box, which will be completed in the next 4-8 weeks. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH -&nbsp;A major expansion project is underway at Savannah High School - a project that will give the school new classrooms and improved athletic facilities.The upgrades include turf for the football field, a new, eight-lane track and the addition of a video scoreboard.Savannah Athletic Director and head football coach Anthony Hays says this $20 million project, however, spans well beyond athletics."That's going to a new performing arts center," Hays told KFEQ Radio. "The renovation of our game gym, the addition of a new auxiliary gym, which will be awesome on the athletics side of stuff where we can maybe play sub varsity games in one gym, high school games in another. Make our nights and tournaments go by a little quicker.""Also new athletic locker rooms and P.E. locker rooms."Savannah launched a $2 million fundraiser back in January to help pay for the track and turf field. Hays says about $1.2 million of that has already been raised.The plan is to break ground on the field and track project this summer.&nbsp;Hays says the field project, classroom expansion and gym revamp is scheduled to be done by the start of the coming school year.There'll also be new locker rooms and a new film room.A new, two-story press box is slated to be done within a month or two. The new performing arts center may take until January.Hays says the school district wants the very best for its students."We want all of our kids to have the very best we can offer them," he said. "To see it happening shows you the investment of our school district and community into the next generation, and that's pretty neat to see in our small town."While the upgrades to the turf, press box and scoreboard will enhance the Friday night football atmosphere,&nbsp;Hays says the soccer teams stand to gain from an upgraded field as well."(Soccer) is in a facility right now that doesn't have lights, running water, a true grand stands or even bathrooms," he said, "so they're going to move their games to the stadium. So, I think that'll give them a pretty neat opportunity and venue for their games."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261170692.jpeg" alt="Renovations underway at the Savannah High School gym. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Renovations underway at the Savannah High School gym. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261210182.jpeg" alt="A new performing arts center will be built on the grounds of Savannah High School." />
 <figcaption>A new performing arts center will be built on the grounds of Savannah High School.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261255834.jpeg" alt="A rendering of what the new field and track will look like." />
 <figcaption>A rendering of what the new field and track will look like.</figcaption>
 </figure>Full interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Savannah-A-D---head-football-coach-Anthony-Hays-e2huith" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah High School making progress on expansion for athletic, academic facilities

BALTIMORE (AP) — James McCann had a two-out, two-run single in the ninth inning and the Baltimore Orioles emerged from a five-hour rain delay to beat the Kansas City Royals 4-3 on Wednesday night.

Baltimore trailed 3-0 in the eighth before scoring twice against the Kansas City bullpen, which wasted a masterful performance by starter Cole Ragans.

It was 3-2 in the ninth when Royals closer Will Smith (0-2) walked Ryan Mountcastle and gave up a single to Anthony Santander. After a sacrifice bunt, an intentional walk to load the bases and a strikeout, McCann lined a single into left to end it.

The deciding matchup in the three-game series was supposed to start at 1:05 p.m., but didn’t get under way until early evening. The Royals weren’t scheduled to return to Baltimore after the game, so waiting out a persistent rainstorm meant the teams wouldn’t have to play a makeup months down the road.

The fans who endured the long wait were rewarded by being allowed to choose any open seat in addition to receiving a voucher for a future weekday game.

Ragans retired 18 of the first 19 batters, the lone exception a fourth-inning double by Adley Rutschman. The right-hander was pulled in the seventh after walking two and striking out Santander.

Ragan worked 6 1/3 shutout innings, allowing one hit and two walks with seven strikeouts.

Maikel Garcia homered and Salvador Perez had three hits and two RBIs for the Royals, who lost both games in the series on Baltimore's final at-bat.

Orioles starter Corbin Burnes gave up two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings. Although the right-hander kept the game close, his performance was a notch below his Orioles debut on opening day, when he limited the Los Angeles Angels to one hit over six innings while striking out 11.

Perez hit RBI singles in the first and third innings, and Garcia went deep against Mike Baumann in the seventh.

In the Baltimore eighth, Gunnar Henderson hit a sacrifice fly and Rutschman singled in a run but was thrown out trying to stretch the hit into a double.

Yennier Cano (1-0) got the win with a scoreless ninth.

The Royals next take on the White Sox Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:40. You can listen to the game on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712193045820.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro, left, argues with home plate umpire Paul Clemons, right, after a play where Bobby Witt Jr. (7) was tagged out in a rundown between third and home against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, April 3, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro, left, argues with home plate umpire Paul Clemons, right, after a play where Bobby Witt Jr. (7) was tagged out in a rundown between third and home against the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, April 3, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>BALTIMORE (AP) — James McCann had a two-out, two-run single in the ninth inning and the Baltimore Orioles emerged from a five-hour rain delay to beat the Kansas City Royals 4-3 on Wednesday night.Baltimore trailed 3-0 in the eighth before scoring twice against the Kansas City bullpen, which wasted a masterful performance by starter Cole Ragans.It was 3-2 in the ninth when Royals closer Will Smith (0-2) walked Ryan Mountcastle and gave up a single to Anthony Santander. After a sacrifice bunt, an intentional walk to load the bases and a strikeout, McCann lined a single into left to end it.The deciding matchup in the three-game series was supposed to start at 1:05 p.m., but didn’t get under way until early evening. The Royals weren’t scheduled to return to Baltimore after the game, so waiting out a persistent rainstorm meant the teams wouldn’t have to play a makeup months down the road.The fans who endured the long wait were rewarded by being allowed to choose any open seat in addition to receiving a voucher for a future weekday game.Ragans retired 18 of the first 19 batters, the lone exception a fourth-inning double by Adley Rutschman. The right-hander was pulled in the seventh after walking two and striking out Santander.Ragan worked 6 1/3 shutout innings, allowing one hit and two walks with seven strikeouts.Maikel Garcia homered and Salvador Perez had three hits and two RBIs for the Royals, who lost both games in the series on Baltimore's final at-bat.Orioles starter Corbin Burnes gave up two runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings. Although the right-hander kept the game close, his performance was a notch below his Orioles debut on opening day, when he limited the Los Angeles Angels to one hit over six innings while striking out 11.Perez hit RBI singles in the first and third innings, and Garcia went deep against Mike Baumann in the seventh.In the Baltimore eighth, Gunnar Henderson hit a sacrifice fly and Rutschman singled in a run but was thrown out trying to stretch the hit into a double.Yennier Cano (1-0) got the win with a scoreless ninth.The Royals next take on the White Sox Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:40. You can listen to the game on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

McCann has 2-out, 2-run single in 9th, Orioles emerge from 5-hour rain delay to beat Royals 4-3

The confetti has fallen, the trophy has been hoisted and the curtain has drawn on another NCAA Division II women’s basketball Elite Eight hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University.

This was the sixth time ever that this event was in St. Joseph - all of them since 2003. It was also the first time since 2011 that the city got to host the DII women’s national title game.

Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and director of the tournament, says getting to host the title game this year, unlike last year, made it that much more special.

The title game was in Dallas last year as part of the NCAA's commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX.

"To see that in Civic Arena and to see how happy people are around that, that happiness spreads to a lot of people," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "And it spreads to the folks who put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to make it a great championship week."

Esely says about 2,200 people were in attendance last Friday night when <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0c6804d-9c17-4d11-9549-c1752fec6100">Minnesota State defeated Texas Woman’s University 89-73</a> at Civic Arena.

"If you were in the building Friday night, and a lot of people were, you saw an experience that I don't think you'll forget anytime soon."

Eight teams from eight different states qualified, and that spanned literally coast-to-coast, from California to New York. As the week went on, fans of the winning teams stuck around, making local eateries and establishments their gathering spots.

Esely says the fans from Ferris State University, for example, were often seen at Geneo's Pizza downtown before games.

"That's just one example of folks saying, 'Hey, I saw this travel party out at this restaurant or this place,'" he said. "I think we measure these championships and their success by a number of different things. But, we love to talk about economic impact."

"We don't have those numbers back yet, but I think the economic impact of having this event for a full week in St. Joseph is certainly a plus."

Another highlight from the week was teams going to area high schools for team welcome events.

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4b8c8cb3-477a-4fed-8e78-b9760a84f7e3">The Texas Woman’s team went to Mid-Buchanan High School</a> where they made an instant connection with young girls and athletes in 3rd-8th grade.

In return, those young fans showed out in full force to support Texas Woman’s all week.

"It starts with the leadership at the school," Esely said. "(Texas Woman's) embraced that and that's what community engagement is all about and that's what the beauty of Division II athletics is all about. You have that grassroots effort to get out and engage and teach and be role models for the students of tomorrow."

With the Elite 8 now in the rearview, Esely and the Sports Commission look ahead to future events, which includes the unveiling of the next St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class on May 16.

"We'll make that public on the 16th," he said. "That gives the selection committee an opportunity to review the candidates, select the class. From there, we'll notify the class. We want them to know before it goes public. Then, we're shooting to release the 2024 Hall of Fame Class on May 16th."

The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is slated for Sunday, August 25.

Another big event is the second St. Joseph Marathon, set for Saturday, September 28. Sign up for that race has been open on the Sports Commission's website since January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712179192750.jpeg" alt="Minnesota State was celebrated as the Division II women's basketball national champion last Friday at Civic Arena in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Minnesota State was celebrated as the Division II women's basketball national champion last Friday at Civic Arena in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe confetti has fallen, the trophy has been hoisted and the curtain has drawn on another NCAA Division II women’s basketball Elite Eight hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University.This was the sixth time ever that this event was in St. Joseph - all of them since 2003. It was also the first time since 2011 that the city got to host the DII women’s national title game.Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and director of the tournament, says getting to host the title game this year, unlike last year, made it that much more special.The title game was in Dallas last year as part of the NCAA's commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX."To see that in Civic Arena and to see how happy people are around that, that happiness spreads to a lot of people," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "And it spreads to the folks who put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to make it a great championship week."Esely says about 2,200 people were in attendance last Friday night when <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0c6804d-9c17-4d11-9549-c1752fec6100">Minnesota State defeated Texas Woman’s University 89-73</a> at Civic Arena."If you were in the building Friday night, and a lot of people were, you saw an experience that I don't think you'll forget anytime soon."Eight teams from eight different states qualified, and that spanned literally coast-to-coast, from California to New York. As the week went on, fans of the winning teams stuck around, making local eateries and establishments their gathering spots.Esely says the fans from Ferris State University, for example, were often seen at Geneo's Pizza downtown before games."That's just one example of folks saying, 'Hey, I saw this travel party out at this restaurant or this place,'" he said. "I think we measure these championships and their success by a number of different things. But, we love to talk about economic impact.""We don't have those numbers back yet, but I think the economic impact of having this event for a full week in St. Joseph is certainly a plus."Another highlight from the week was teams going to area high schools for team welcome events.<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4b8c8cb3-477a-4fed-8e78-b9760a84f7e3">The Texas Woman’s team went to Mid-Buchanan High School</a> where they made an instant connection with young girls and athletes in 3rd-8th grade.In return, those young fans showed out in full force to support Texas Woman’s all week."It starts with the leadership at the school," Esely said. "(Texas Woman's) embraced that and that's what community engagement is all about and that's what the beauty of Division II athletics is all about. You have that grassroots effort to get out and engage and teach and be role models for the students of tomorrow." With the Elite 8 now in the rearview, Esely and the Sports Commission look ahead to future events, which includes the unveiling of the next St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class on May 16."We'll make that public on the 16th," he said. "That gives the selection committee an opportunity to review the candidates, select the class. From there, we'll notify the class. We want them to know before it goes public. Then, we're shooting to release the 2024 Hall of Fame Class on May 16th."The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is slated for Sunday, August 25.Another big event is the second St. Joseph Marathon, set for Saturday, September 28. Sign up for that race has been open on the Sports Commission's website since January.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712179117925.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely (right) presented Minnesota State women's basketball coach Emilee Thiesse (left) with a commemorative Pony Express Mochila after the Mavericks won the national title last week. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely (right) presented Minnesota State women's basketball coach Emilee Thiesse (left) with a commemorative Pony Express Mochila after the Mavericks won the national title last week. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Esely reflects on successful Elite 8, looks ahead to other big events in 2024

St. Joseph voters showed strong support for a $20 million bond issue that'll benefit the entire St. Joseph School District.

More than 65 percent of voters who showed out were in favor of the bond issue, which will go toward public safety upgrades, academic programs and activities. The bond needed 57 percent approval for passage.

Kevin Kelly, Co-Chair of Friends of the St. Joseph School District, says this was a needed victory, as the district looks to make some needed improvements.

"We're extremely pleased that the community saw through a lot of the misinformation and a lot of the noise that really was a distraction," Kelly told KFEQ Radio Tuesday night. "The community said, 'No, we support the school district.' Their vote (Tuesday) was a clear indicator that it is moving in the right direction. This bond passage gives us the support and money we need to make some of the investments necessary."

The passage of this bond comes at no additional cost to taxpayers. Public safety projects in the bond include extending the district sidewalk program, which plans sidewalks for Pickett and Pershing Elementary and possibly Spring Garden Middle School.

Public safety projects also include a partnership with the city to build roads at Carden Park and Oak Grove Elementary Schools

HVAC upgrades will be funded, as will an upgrade to the district-wide intercom system. Artificial turf will be added to the high school football fields, and money will also be invested in the performing arts.

Kelly says a common misconception surrounding this bond is the money was only going to go toward turf football fields. But, he says it spans well beyond that.

"Theater and fine arts in multiple schools," he said. "We're adding onto Hosea (Elementary), putting classrooms in, which are needed, because it's over capacity. So, we can get out of trailers and put them in real classrooms."

"We have access points - the driving up and walking around several of the schools. It should have been done when they were built. Two of the newer schools, but it wasn't. Therefore, now we can put in the safety measures of the sidewalks and dropping kids off without having to worry about things."

Kelly adds this bond is crucial, as the district works to keep up with peer districts in the Kansas City metro when it comes to facilities and opportunities for students.

"It helps get us back on track," he said. "We have to reverse the enrollment decline and start attracting the families and getting them to stay here. This at least puts us on the right direction to get the school district rebuilt and able to compete with other surrounding school districts."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692636252553.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph School District Superintendent Gabe Edgar (left) and Hyde Elementary Principal Jaimee Lawrence (right) greet students on the first day of school in 2023. Photo by Matt Pike." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph School District Superintendent Gabe Edgar (left) and Hyde Elementary Principal Jaimee Lawrence (right) greet students on the first day of school in 2023. Photo by Matt Pike.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph voters showed strong support for a $20 million bond issue that'll benefit the entire St. Joseph School District.More than 65 percent of voters who showed out were in favor of the bond issue, which will go toward public safety upgrades, academic programs and activities. The bond needed 57 percent approval for passage.Kevin Kelly, Co-Chair of Friends of the St. Joseph School District, says this was a needed victory, as the district looks to make some needed improvements."We're extremely pleased that the community saw through a lot of the misinformation and a lot of the noise that really was a distraction," Kelly told KFEQ Radio Tuesday night. "The community said, 'No, we support the school district.' Their vote (Tuesday) was a clear indicator that it is moving in the right direction. This bond passage gives us the support and money we need to make some of the investments necessary."The passage of this bond comes at no additional cost to taxpayers. Public safety projects in the bond include extending the district sidewalk program, which plans sidewalks for Pickett and Pershing Elementary and possibly Spring Garden Middle School.Public safety projects also include a partnership with the city to build roads at Carden Park and Oak Grove Elementary SchoolsHVAC upgrades will be funded, as will an upgrade to the district-wide intercom system. Artificial turf will be added to the high school football fields, and money will also be invested in the performing arts.Kelly says a common misconception surrounding this bond is the money was only going to go toward turf football fields. But, he says it spans well beyond that."Theater and fine arts in multiple schools," he said. "We're adding onto Hosea (Elementary), putting classrooms in, which are needed, because it's over capacity. So, we can get out of trailers and put them in real classrooms.""We have access points - the driving up and walking around several of the schools. It should have been done when they were built. Two of the newer schools, but it wasn't. Therefore, now we can put in the safety measures of the sidewalks and dropping kids off without having to worry about things."Kelly adds this bond is crucial, as the district works to keep up with peer districts in the Kansas City metro when it comes to facilities and opportunities for students."It helps get us back on track," he said. "We have to reverse the enrollment decline and start attracting the families and getting them to stay here. This at least puts us on the right direction to get the school district rebuilt and able to compete with other surrounding school districts."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District Bond issue passes with ease Tuesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The future of the Royals and Chiefs in Kansas City was thrown into question Tuesday night when residents of Jackson County, Missouri, resoundingly voted down a sales tax measure that would have helped to fund a new downtown ballpark along with major renovations to Arrowhead Stadium.

Royals owner John Sherman and Chiefs president Mark Donovan acknowledged long before the final tally that the initiative would fail.

 More than 58% of voters ultimately rejected the plan, which would have replaced an existing three-eighths of a cent sales tax that has been paying for the upkeep of Truman Sports Complex — the home for more than 50 years to Kauffman and Arrowhead Stadiums — with a similar tax that would have been in place for the next 40 years.

The Royals, who had pledged at least $1 billion from ownership for their project, wanted to use their share of the tax revenue to help fund a $2 billion-plus ballpark district. The Super Bowl champion Chiefs, who had committed $300 million in private money, would have used their share as part of an $800 million overhaul of Arrowhead Stadium.

“We’re deeply disappointed as we are steadfast in our belief that Jackson County is better with the Chiefs and the Royals,” said Sherman, who left without taking questions. “As someone whose roots run deep in this town, who has been a dedicated fan and season-ticket holder for both of these teams, and now leading a remarkable ownership group.”

Donovan said the Chiefs would do “what is in the best interest of our fans and our organization as we move forward.”

That could mean many things: The Chiefs could try again with a reworked plan more agreeable to voters, change their entire funding approach to include more private investment, or they could even listen to offers from competing cities and states — such as Kansas, just across the state line to the west — that would provide the public funding they desire.

“We’ve been talking a lot about the democratic process. We respect the process,” Donovan said. “We feel we put forth the best offer for Jackson County. We’re ready to extend the longstanding partnership the teams have enjoyed with this county.”

The current lease lease at Truman Sports Complex lasts through Jan. 31, 2031. And while Sherman has said the Royals would not play at Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season, the Chiefs are hopeful of remaining at Arrowhead Stadium.

The tax — or, more accurately, the stadium plans — received significant public pushback almost from the start, when the teams struggled to put concrete plans before voters and were accused of lacking transparency throughout the process.

Last fall, the Royals unveiled two potential locations for their ballpark district, one on the eastern edge of downtown and the other across the Missouri River in Clay County, Missouri.

But, a self-imposed deadline to finalize their location lapsed without a plan, and in February, they finally announced they had scrapped both concepts and chosen a different downtown spot.

The new area, known as the Crossroads, has a vibrant arts and restaurant scene, and it is just blocks away from the T-Mobile Center and the bustling Power &amp; Light entertainment district. It also is close to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and the 18th &amp; Vine district, which is home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

But even then, plans remained vague. The latest ballpark renderings were made obsolete just last week when the Royals acquiesced to Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas’ request that a major street that would have been part of the stadium footprint remain open; Lucas did not endorse the tax initiative until the Royals agreed to the change.

“I think everyone has the same mixed feelings,” said Deidre Chasteen, a voter from Independence, Missouri, who remembers attending games downtown at old Municipal Stadium when the Royals played there from 1969-72.

“It’s not that we mind paying the three-eighths-cent sales tax. I think the problem is putting the stadium where it is,” Chasteen said. “We’re saying don’t ruin businesses that have been established down there for years.”

The club also had not reached sales agreements with many landowners in the Crossroads, and other businesses had expressed concerns about traffic, congestion and parking in an already thriving residential neighborhood.

Sarah Tourville, the Royals’ executive vice president, said the goal was to move into the stadium for opening day in 2028.

The Royals moved from Municipal Stadium to Kauffman Stadium in 1973 and extensively renovated the ballpark from 2009-12. Arrowhead Stadium was built alongside Kauffman Stadium and also was renovated around the same time.

While the Royals insist on playing in a new ballpark, the Chiefs wanted to stay put with a renovation that would have touched every aspect of their 52-year-old building, from the seating bowl to luxury amenities to the tailgating scene.

“We would not be willing to sign a lease for another 25 years without the financing to properly renovate and reimagine the stadium,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt, whose father, Lamar Hunt, helped get the existing stadiums built, said before Tuesday’s vote. “The financing puzzle is very important to us to make sure we have enough funds to do everything we’ve outlined.”

The Chiefs had hoped their success, including three Super Bowl titles in the last five years, would sway voters in their favor.

“What my dad loved best about the stadium was the connection the team had with our fanbase,” Hunt said. “He loved this building for what it means to the fans, and we still believe it is one of the best stadiums in the National Football League and a bucket-list destination for fans across the NFL.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712112749211.jpeg" alt="An Air Force B2 bomber flies over Kauffman Stadium before a baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>An Air Force B2 bomber flies over Kauffman Stadium before a baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and the Minnesota Twins Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The future of the Royals and Chiefs in Kansas City was thrown into question Tuesday night when residents of Jackson County, Missouri, resoundingly voted down a sales tax measure that would have helped to fund a new downtown ballpark along with major renovations to Arrowhead Stadium.Royals owner John Sherman and Chiefs president Mark Donovan acknowledged long before the final tally that the initiative would fail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712104528404.png" alt="Photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure> More than 58% of voters ultimately rejected the plan, which would have replaced an existing three-eighths of a cent sales tax that has been paying for the upkeep of Truman Sports Complex — the home for more than 50 years to Kauffman and Arrowhead Stadiums — with a similar tax that would have been in place for the next 40 years.The Royals, who had pledged at least $1 billion from ownership for their project, wanted to use their share of the tax revenue to help fund a $2 billion-plus ballpark district. The Super Bowl champion Chiefs, who had committed $300 million in private money, would have used their share as part of an $800 million overhaul of Arrowhead Stadium.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement from John Sherman regarding today&#39;s Jackson County election: <a href="https://t.co/t85qx0Cwfh">pic.twitter.com/t85qx0Cwfh</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1775347697345610113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We’re deeply disappointed as we are steadfast in our belief that Jackson County is better with the Chiefs and the Royals,” said Sherman, who left without taking questions. “As someone whose roots run deep in this town, who has been a dedicated fan and season-ticket holder for both of these teams, and now leading a remarkable ownership group.”Donovan said the Chiefs would do “what is in the best interest of our fans and our organization as we move forward.”That could mean many things: The Chiefs could try again with a reworked plan more agreeable to voters, change their entire funding approach to include more private investment, or they could even listen to offers from competing cities and states — such as Kansas, just across the state line to the west — that would provide the public funding they desire.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/JacksonCountyMO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JacksonCountyMO</a>⁩ voters have spoken. I’ll say more on the election results and what happens next soon. Stay tuned! <a href="https://t.co/emqsBfJqYq">pic.twitter.com/emqsBfJqYq</a>&mdash; Frank White (@JCEFrankWhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/JCEFrankWhite/status/1775364416424280068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We’ve been talking a lot about the democratic process. We respect the process,” Donovan said. “We feel we put forth the best offer for Jackson County. We’re ready to extend the longstanding partnership the teams have enjoyed with this county.”The current lease lease at Truman Sports Complex lasts through Jan. 31, 2031. And while Sherman has said the Royals would not play at Kauffman Stadium beyond the 2030 season, the Chiefs are hopeful of remaining at Arrowhead Stadium.The tax — or, more accurately, the stadium plans — received significant public pushback almost from the start, when the teams struggled to put concrete plans before voters and were accused of lacking transparency throughout the process.Last fall, the Royals unveiled two potential locations for their ballpark district, one on the eastern edge of downtown and the other across the Missouri River in Clay County, Missouri.But, a self-imposed deadline to finalize their location lapsed without a plan, and in February, they finally announced they had scrapped both concepts and chosen a different downtown spot.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/ijleg960iH">pic.twitter.com/ijleg960iH</a>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1775340879663825097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The new area, known as the Crossroads, has a vibrant arts and restaurant scene, and it is just blocks away from the T-Mobile Center and the bustling Power &amp; Light entertainment district. It also is close to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts and the 18th &amp; Vine district, which is home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.But even then, plans remained vague. The latest ballpark renderings were made obsolete just last week when the Royals acquiesced to Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas’ request that a major street that would have been part of the stadium footprint remain open; Lucas did not endorse the tax initiative until the Royals agreed to the change.“I think everyone has the same mixed feelings,” said Deidre Chasteen, a voter from Independence, Missouri, who remembers attending games downtown at old Municipal Stadium when the Royals played there from 1969-72.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712112786193.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals owner John Sherman, left, address the media while Kansas City Chiefs president Mark Donovan looks on during a news conference about a plan to extend a sales tax to provide funding to build a new stadium for the Royals and stadium improvement for the Chiefs Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Jackson County, Mo. residents will vote on the question Tuesday, April 2. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals owner John Sherman, left, address the media while Kansas City Chiefs president Mark Donovan looks on during a news conference about a plan to extend a sales tax to provide funding to build a new stadium for the Royals and stadium improvement for the Chiefs Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Jackson County, Mo. residents will vote on the question Tuesday, April 2. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel).</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s not that we mind paying the three-eighths-cent sales tax. I think the problem is putting the stadium where it is,” Chasteen said. “We’re saying don’t ruin businesses that have been established down there for years.”The club also had not reached sales agreements with many landowners in the Crossroads, and other businesses had expressed concerns about traffic, congestion and parking in an already thriving residential neighborhood.Sarah Tourville, the Royals’ executive vice president, said the goal was to move into the stadium for opening day in 2028.The Royals moved from Municipal Stadium to Kauffman Stadium in 1973 and extensively renovated the ballpark from 2009-12. Arrowhead Stadium was built alongside Kauffman Stadium and also was renovated around the same time.While the Royals insist on playing in a new ballpark, the Chiefs wanted to stay put with a renovation that would have touched every aspect of their 52-year-old building, from the seating bowl to luxury amenities to the tailgating scene.“We would not be willing to sign a lease for another 25 years without the financing to properly renovate and reimagine the stadium,” Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt, whose father, Lamar Hunt, helped get the existing stadiums built, said before Tuesday’s vote. “The financing puzzle is very important to us to make sure we have enough funds to do everything we’ve outlined.”The Chiefs had hoped their success, including three Super Bowl titles in the last five years, would sway voters in their favor.“What my dad loved best about the stadium was the connection the team had with our fanbase,” Hunt said. “He loved this building for what it means to the fans, and we still believe it is one of the best stadiums in the National Football League and a bucket-list destination for fans across the NFL.”

Voters reject stadium tax for Royals and Chiefs, leaving future in KC in question

BALTIMORE (AP) — Alec Marsh pitched seven innings of two-hit ball, Maikel Garcia drove in three runs and the Kansas City Royals breezed past the Baltimore Orioles 4-1 Tuesday night at wet and chilly Camden Yards.

Marsh (1-0) turned in the best performance of his budding career, dominating the defending AL East champions with an exceptional display of control. He struck out five, walked one and retired the side in order five times.

Now in his second season, Marsh previously hadn't gone more than six innings and never allowed fewer than three hits in any outing longer than an inning. In this one, he threw 72 pitches, only 18 of which were called balls.

The right-hander received offensive support from Garcia, who hit a two-run double in the second inning and added an RBI triple in the fourth.

A persistent, light rain soaked the players and the announced crowd of 9,404. Temperatures dipped into the 40s soon after the game started, and a crisp breeze provided the stouthearted fans additional discomfort.

The Orioles gave their supporters little reason to stand up and cheer. Baltimore's only run came in the third inning on successive doubles by Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser, but that only served to cut their deficit to 3-1.

Kansas City answered in the fourth with a walk and a triple by Garcia on a liner off the right-field wall. That was more than enough backing for Marsh, who earned the fifth spot in the Royals rotation with a strong showing in spring training.

As a rookie in 2023, Marsh lost his first eight decisions before finishing 3-9 with a 5.69 ERA.

After Marsh put in his seven innings, the bullpen finished up without incident. John Schreiber gave up a single in the eighth and Will Smith got three straight outs for his first save.

Orioles starter Cole Irvin (0-1) gave up four runs and seven hits in five innings. The 30-year-old is attempting to bounce back from a disappointing season in which he went 1-4, endured three stints in the minor leagues and did not appear on Baltimore's postseason roster.

Royals reliever Jake Brentz threw in the bullpen for the first time since going on the IL last month with a left hamstring strain. Brentz, 29, hasn't pitched in the big leagues since undergoing elbow surgery in July of 2022.

The teams face a rainy forecast for Wednesday's series finale, which matches Orioles ace Corbin Burnes (1-0, 1.50 ERA) and Royals opening day starter Cole Ragans (0-1, 3.00).

The Royals take on the Orioles again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 12:05 on KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712106555574.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Alec Marsh throws during the second inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Tuesday, April 2, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Alec Marsh throws during the second inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Tuesday, April 2, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)</figcaption>
 </figure>BALTIMORE (AP) — Alec Marsh pitched seven innings of two-hit ball, Maikel Garcia drove in three runs and the Kansas City Royals breezed past the Baltimore Orioles 4-1 Tuesday night at wet and chilly Camden Yards.Marsh (1-0) turned in the best performance of his budding career, dominating the defending AL East champions with an exceptional display of control. He struck out five, walked one and retired the side in order five times.Now in his second season, Marsh previously hadn't gone more than six innings and never allowed fewer than three hits in any outing longer than an inning. In this one, he threw 72 pitches, only 18 of which were called balls.The right-hander received offensive support from Garcia, who hit a two-run double in the second inning and added an RBI triple in the fourth.A persistent, light rain soaked the players and the announced crowd of 9,404. Temperatures dipped into the 40s soon after the game started, and a crisp breeze provided the stouthearted fans additional discomfort.The Orioles gave their supporters little reason to stand up and cheer. Baltimore's only run came in the third inning on successive doubles by Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser, but that only served to cut their deficit to 3-1.Kansas City answered in the fourth with a walk and a triple by Garcia on a liner off the right-field wall. That was more than enough backing for Marsh, who earned the fifth spot in the Royals rotation with a strong showing in spring training.As a rookie in 2023, Marsh lost his first eight decisions before finishing 3-9 with a 5.69 ERA.After Marsh put in his seven innings, the bullpen finished up without incident. John Schreiber gave up a single in the eighth and Will Smith got three straight outs for his first save.Orioles starter Cole Irvin (0-1) gave up four runs and seven hits in five innings. The 30-year-old is attempting to bounce back from a disappointing season in which he went 1-4, endured three stints in the minor leagues and did not appear on Baltimore's postseason roster.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals reliever Jake Brentz threw in the bullpen for the first time since going on the IL last month with a left hamstring strain. Brentz, 29, hasn't pitched in the big leagues since undergoing elbow surgery in July of 2022.UP NEXTThe teams face a rainy forecast for Wednesday's series finale, which matches Orioles ace Corbin Burnes (1-0, 1.50 ERA) and Royals opening day starter Cole Ragans (0-1, 3.00).The Royals take on the Orioles again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 12:05 on KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Alec Marsh throws 7 dominant innings, Maikel Garcia has 3 RBIs to lead Royals past Orioles 4-1

Northwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum is finally answering the call to go Division I.

McCollum, a Storm Lakes, Iowa native, will become the next men's basketball coach for the Drake Bulldogs, per multiple reports Monday.

Drake is located in Des Moines and is a member of the Missouri Valley Conference. McCollum's deal is for five years, per ESPN reporting.

McCollum has spent the last 15 seasons as the head coach at Northwest, winning four national titles, 13 MIAA regular season titles, and eight MIAA tournament titles.

In those 15 seasons, McCollum compiled a career record of 394-91, including a 241-63 record in MIAA conference play and a 32-7 mark in NCAA Tournament play.

McCollum, who will be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on May 19, was named MIAA Coach of the Year nine times and national coach of the year five times.

McCollum succeeds Darian DeVries at Drake. DeVries got the head coaching job at West Virginia in March.

McCollum played college basketball for the Bearcats and returned to his alma mater in 2009 after a four-year assistant coaching stint at Emporia State.

Under McCollum, Northwest won 25 or more games in 12 straight seasons − the longest active streak among all NCAA men's programs. The Bearcats posted records of 30-plus wins in five seasons, including a perfect 38-0 season in 2018-19.

McCollum's name had been in discussions for other Division I jobs in the last few years, including Buffalo, UNC-Greensboro, Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Missouri State most recently.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712003233844.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University athletics." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Northwest Missouri State University athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State men's basketball coach Ben McCollum is finally answering the call to go Division I.McCollum, a Storm Lakes, Iowa native, will become the next men's basketball coach for the Drake Bulldogs, per multiple reports Monday.Drake is located in Des Moines and is a member of the Missouri Valley Conference. McCollum's deal is for five years, per ESPN reporting.McCollum has spent the last 15 seasons as the head coach at Northwest, winning four national titles, 13 MIAA regular season titles, and eight MIAA tournament titles.In those 15 seasons, McCollum compiled a career record of 394-91, including a 241-63 record in MIAA conference play and a 32-7 mark in NCAA Tournament play.McCollum, who will be inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame on May 19, was named MIAA Coach of the Year nine times and national coach of the year five times.McCollum succeeds Darian DeVries at Drake. DeVries got the head coaching job at West Virginia in March.McCollum played college basketball for the Bearcats and returned to his alma mater in 2009 after a four-year assistant coaching stint at Emporia State.Under McCollum, Northwest won 25 or more games in 12 straight seasons − the longest active streak among all NCAA men's programs. The Bearcats posted records of 30-plus wins in five seasons, including a perfect 38-0 season in 2018-19.McCollum's name had been in discussions for other Division I jobs in the last few years, including Buffalo, UNC-Greensboro, Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Missouri State most recently.

Northwest's Ben McCollum to become next men's basketball coach at Drake

Minnesota State women's basketball completed an inspired run through the NCAA tournament winning the Division II championship with an 89-73 win over Texas Woman's University on Friday night at Civic Arena in St. Joseph.

In front of a packed house, Minnesota State (32-5) was humming from the get-go, jumping out to a 26-13 lead by the end of the first quarter and a 46-32 lead at halftime.

The Mavericks' lead grew to 25 points at 76-51 with 8:56 to play. Texas Woman's (34-5) didn't give up, getting to within 81-71 with 2:09 to go, but the Mavericks made 8-of-10 free throws in the fourth quarter to seal the deal.

Like they normally do, Minnesota State's defense created a bunch of turnovers and scored a lot of points off of them. In this case, the Mavericks scored 40 points off of 30 Pioneers turnovers.

Minnesota State came away with 21 steals. The Mavericks also sunk 10-of-23 from long range. Sophomore Natalie Bremer led the way with a game-high 27 points. Ava Stier had 13 points and Emily Herzberg had 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711774290150.jpeg" alt="Members of the Minnesota State women's basketball team hoist the national championship trophy following an 89-73 win over Texas Woman's University at Civic Arena Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Members of the Minnesota State women's basketball team hoist the national championship trophy following an 89-73 win over Texas Woman's University at Civic Arena Friday night. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMinnesota State women's basketball completed an inspired run through the NCAA tournament winning the Division II championship with an 89-73 win over Texas Woman's University on Friday night at Civic Arena in St. Joseph.In front of a packed house, Minnesota State (32-5) was humming from the get-go, jumping out to a 26-13 lead by the end of the first quarter and a 46-32 lead at halftime.The Mavericks' lead grew to 25 points at 76-51 with 8:56 to play. Texas Woman's (34-5) didn't give up, getting to within 81-71 with 2:09 to go, but the Mavericks made 8-of-10 free throws in the fourth quarter to seal the deal.Like they normally do, Minnesota State's defense created a bunch of turnovers and scored a lot of points off of them. In this case, the Mavericks scored 40 points off of 30 Pioneers turnovers.Minnesota State came away with 21 steals. The Mavericks also sunk 10-of-23 from long range. Sophomore Natalie Bremer led the way with a game-high 27 points. Ava Stier had 13 points and Emily Herzberg had 12.Ashley Ingram led Texas Woman's in defeat with 24 points. Jada Celsur was close behind with 20.The Pioneers shot a respectable 43.9 percent (25-of-57), but they lost the turnover battle 30-15.Minnesota State, which ended the season on an 11-game winning streak, tied a school record with 32 wins and won its second national title in program history and its first since 2009.The Mavericks, who started the season 2-4, got revenge on all four of those teams that beat them in that stretch; Fort Hays State in regional semifinals, Southern Nazarene in the regional championship, Minnesota-Duluth on January 30, and now Texas Woman's.The Pioneers had beaten Minnesota State, 76-71, on November 4th in Billings, Montana.The Mavericks got the last laugh, but for the team, that's the not the lasting message."Yeah it was a revenge tour, but it was a chance to prove to ourselves that we were a different basketball team," Minnesota State head coach Emilee Thiesee said. "It was never about 'we're better than anyone else out there.' It was just, let's do what we do and prove to ourselves that we're a different team, and I think that's what our team handled so well all season long."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711775514196.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711775570072.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711775597668.jpeg" alt="A large flag was unfurled during the national anthem." />
 <figcaption>A large flag was unfurled during the national anthem.</figcaption>
 </figure>Photo album<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02LYVcqqvKmc73oXznHTwPvx2y9QKp42fyxtC6CwK6USTRrtT1sAYinak9FhfyxxGYl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="250" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FINAL 🏆🏆🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/MinnStWBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MinnStWBB</a> 89 Texas Woman’s 73 Mavericks win it all for the 2nd time in their history and the first time since 2009. <a href="https://t.co/4aAfcrIMXP">pic.twitter.com/4aAfcrIMXP</a>&mdash; Tommy Rezac (@TommyKFEQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyKFEQ/status/1773897240152539571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 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.