The St. Joseph Mustangs got back in the win column on Saturday night, defeating the Des Moines Peak Prospects 11-2 at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;

Following a scoreless first inning, the Prospects would take a one run lead in the second, before the Mustangs would strike for four runs to take the lead for good.

Designated hitter Jeremy Rader drove in Ryan Callahan with a double to start the scoring in the second.&nbsp; Catcher Ben Click, Savannah alumni Noah Bodenhausen, and Lafayette alumni Cole Slibowski would also drive in runs in the inning to lead Des Moines 4-1.&nbsp;

Des Moines would get one run back in the top half of the third, but the Mustangs again would extend the gap thanks to a triple from Callahan that would bring in right fielder Trevor McCollum.&nbsp; Rader would go on to drive Callahan in once again, this time with a sacrifice fly, pushing the lead to 6-2 at the end of the third.&nbsp;

St. Joseph would add four more runs in the fourth inning, two coming home on a double from Callahan and another two coming in on a single from left fielder Easton Bruce.

The final run for St. Joseph would come in the bottom of the sixth inning as third baseman Mason Holton's sacrifice fly to left field would score Callahan.&nbsp;

Ryan Callahan led all hitters on the night going 4 for 5 at the plate with four runs scored and three RBI's.&nbsp; On the night Callahan recorded two singles, a double, and a triple finishing just a home run shy of the cycle.&nbsp;

On the mound starting pitcher Brandon Stone pitched seven solid innings recording seven strikeouts and walking three batters allowing the two runs, only one earned, and five hits in what would be his final start of the summer.&nbsp; Bishop Leblond alumni Jaren Guck and Ryker Curry pitched one inning each of relief.&nbsp;

St. Joseph is now 14-8 on the season, 12-8 in MINK League play, and remain in second place in the MINK League North behind the Clarinda A's.&nbsp; The Mustangs will begin a four game road trip on Sunday in Nevada against the Griffons.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 7pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs got back in the win column on Saturday night, defeating the Des Moines Peak Prospects 11-2 at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;Following a scoreless first inning, the Prospects would take a one run lead in the second, before the Mustangs would strike for four runs to take the lead for good.Designated hitter Jeremy Rader drove in Ryan Callahan with a double to start the scoring in the second.&nbsp; Catcher Ben Click, Savannah alumni Noah Bodenhausen, and Lafayette alumni Cole Slibowski would also drive in runs in the inning to lead Des Moines 4-1.&nbsp;Des Moines would get one run back in the top half of the third, but the Mustangs again would extend the gap thanks to a triple from Callahan that would bring in right fielder Trevor McCollum.&nbsp; Rader would go on to drive Callahan in once again, this time with a sacrifice fly, pushing the lead to 6-2 at the end of the third.&nbsp;St. Joseph would add four more runs in the fourth inning, two coming home on a double from Callahan and another two coming in on a single from left fielder Easton Bruce.The final run for St. Joseph would come in the bottom of the sixth inning as third baseman Mason Holton's sacrifice fly to left field would score Callahan.&nbsp;Ryan Callahan led all hitters on the night going 4 for 5 at the plate with four runs scored and three RBI's.&nbsp; On the night Callahan recorded two singles, a double, and a triple finishing just a home run shy of the cycle.&nbsp;On the mound starting pitcher Brandon Stone pitched seven solid innings recording seven strikeouts and walking three batters allowing the two runs, only one earned, and five hits in what would be his final start of the summer.&nbsp; Bishop Leblond alumni Jaren Guck and Ryker Curry pitched one inning each of relief.&nbsp;St. Joseph is now 14-8 on the season, 12-8 in MINK League play, and remain in second place in the MINK League North behind the Clarinda A's.&nbsp; The Mustangs will begin a four game road trip on Sunday in Nevada against the Griffons.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 7pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mustangs back on the winning side with big 11-2 win over Des Moines

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Jordan Lyles hasn't had much to smile about this season.

Lyles ended a 15-game winless streak and the lowly Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4 for their second victory in three days against the team with the best record in the majors.

“He had a big smile on his face when we came up the stairs (postgame),” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The guys were ribbing him a little bit. He's got a lot of pride in what he does. He's handled himself tremendously well through this streak, so it feels really good for him.”

Lyles (1-11) allowed four runs and eight hits over six innings. It was his first victory since his final start last year on Sept. 30 while playing for the Baltimore Orioles.

“It feels really good,” Lyles said. “Even more so just how well we played all the way around team-wise. Just a really good team all around win."

Drew Waters, Freddy Fermín and Edward Olivares homered for the Royals, who have the second-worst record in the majors at 22-55.

Lyles retired his final eight batters before relievers Carlos Hernández worked a 1-2-3 seventh and Nick Wittgren went two perfect innings.

Tampa Bay (53-27) is 5-7 over its last 12 games including two losses to Oakland, which has the worst record.

“We're not firing on all cylinders right now,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “I think we're in a tough stretch. Wins just haven't come easy for us. Today, give the Royals credit, they put it to us.”

Rays shortstop Wander Franco returned after being benched for two games for how he was handled frustrating situations this season and hit a 417-foot solo homer during a two-run first. He added an RBI single in a two-run second.

“There's no denying he's a really good player and he really makes our team, a good team, that much better,” Cash said.

Waters got his third homer, and second in three days, as the Royals scored three times in the third to make it 4-3.

Fermin hit a three-run homer off Yonny Chirinos (3-3) during a four-run fourth as the Royals rebounded to go up 7-4. Bobby Witt Jr. drove in his second run with a run-scoring double.

“Coming from behind was nice,” Quatraro said. “Getting down four, things didn't look great. To keep adding on was a nice thing.”

Nick Pratto made it 8-4 in the sixth on his second RBI grounder. Olivares went deep against Zack Littell in the eighth.

Chirinos allowed eight runs and nine hits in 5 1/3 innings.

Royals: C Salvador Pérez, who left Friday's game with a right hamstring cramp, was the DH and went 0 for 4 with a walk. ... LHP Ryan Yarbrough (facial fractures), struck by an 106.2 mph liner off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Noda on May 7, was scheduled to make his second rehab start Saturday night for Triple-A Omaha.

Royals LHP Daniel Lynch (1-3) was set to face RHP Tyler Glasnow (2-1) on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687660864939.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starter Jordan Lyles pitches against the Tampa Bay Rays during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starter Jordan Lyles pitches against the Tampa Bay Rays during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Jordan Lyles hasn't had much to smile about this season.That finally changed Saturday.Lyles ended a 15-game winless streak and the lowly Kansas City Royals beat the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4 for their second victory in three days against the team with the best record in the majors.“He had a big smile on his face when we came up the stairs (postgame),” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “The guys were ribbing him a little bit. He's got a lot of pride in what he does. He's handled himself tremendously well through this streak, so it feels really good for him.”Lyles (1-11) allowed four runs and eight hits over six innings. It was his first victory since his final start last year on Sept. 30 while playing for the Baltimore Orioles.“It feels really good,” Lyles said. “Even more so just how well we played all the way around team-wise. Just a really good team all around win."Drew Waters, Freddy Fermín and Edward Olivares homered for the Royals, who have the second-worst record in the majors at 22-55.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687660849420.jpeg" alt="Tampa Bay Rays catcher Francisco Mejia, left, watches as Kansas City Royals' Freddy Frermin hits a three-run home run off Tampa Bay starter Yonny Chirinos during the fourth inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)" />
 <figcaption>Tampa Bay Rays catcher Francisco Mejia, left, watches as Kansas City Royals' Freddy Frermin hits a three-run home run off Tampa Bay starter Yonny Chirinos during the fourth inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)</figcaption>
 </figure>Lyles retired his final eight batters before relievers Carlos Hernández worked a 1-2-3 seventh and Nick Wittgren went two perfect innings.Tampa Bay (53-27) is 5-7 over its last 12 games including two losses to Oakland, which has the worst record.“We're not firing on all cylinders right now,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “I think we're in a tough stretch. Wins just haven't come easy for us. Today, give the Royals credit, they put it to us.”Rays shortstop Wander Franco returned after being benched for two games for how he was handled frustrating situations this season and hit a 417-foot solo homer during a two-run first. He added an RBI single in a two-run second.“There's no denying he's a really good player and he really makes our team, a good team, that much better,” Cash said.Waters got his third homer, and second in three days, as the Royals scored three times in the third to make it 4-3.Fermin hit a three-run homer off Yonny Chirinos (3-3) during a four-run fourth as the Royals rebounded to go up 7-4. Bobby Witt Jr. drove in his second run with a run-scoring double.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">First-pitch Freddy!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeToTheCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeToTheCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yl5Or7YcR5">pic.twitter.com/Yl5Or7YcR5</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1672715062870683648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Coming from behind was nice,” Quatraro said. “Getting down four, things didn't look great. To keep adding on was a nice thing.”Nick Pratto made it 8-4 in the sixth on his second RBI grounder. Olivares went deep against Zack Littell in the eighth.Chirinos allowed eight runs and nine hits in 5 1/3 innings.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: C Salvador Pérez, who left Friday's game with a right hamstring cramp, was the DH and went 0 for 4 with a walk. ... LHP Ryan Yarbrough (facial fractures), struck by an 106.2 mph liner off the bat of Oakland's Ryan Noda on May 7, was scheduled to make his second rehab start Saturday night for Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTRoyals LHP Daniel Lynch (1-3) was set to face RHP Tyler Glasnow (2-1) on Sunday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687661026587.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. knocks down an infield single hit by Tampa Bay Rays' Randy Arozarena during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. knocks down an infield single hit by Tampa Bay Rays' Randy Arozarena during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, June 24, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lyles ends 11-game losing streak, lowly Royals beat the majors-leading Rays 9-4

The St. Joseph Mustangs started the weekend off rough with four errors in the field costing them in a 9-3 loss to the Clarinda A's on Friday night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;

The Mustangs started off with the lead as center fielder Trevor McCollum singled to score Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart.&nbsp; But the A's would go on to score four runs in the fourth inning, two of them scoring on a throwing error by Luikart who was in right field on the night.&nbsp;

Clarinda would hold the lead for the remainder of the game adding runs in the sixth, two in the eighth, and their final two runs coming in the ninth.&nbsp; The Mustangs would score runs in the sixth and eighth innings.&nbsp;

St. Joe kept up in the hit column, despite only scoring three runs, with the A's getting 10 hits to the Mustangs nine. Luikart led the way batting going 3 for 5 on the night with two runs scored.&nbsp;

On the mound, Michael Infranca started giving up four runs, only one earned, with one strikeout. Manny Pena and Benton alum Tanner Schmidt pitched in relief.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Mustangs are now 13-7 overall on the year, 11-7 in MINK league play, and are in second place in the MINK League north division behind the A's.&nbsp; St. Joseph will be back at Phil Welch Stadium on Saturday against the Des Moines Peak Prospects.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs started the weekend off rough with four errors in the field costing them in a 9-3 loss to the Clarinda A's on Friday night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;The Mustangs started off with the lead as center fielder Trevor McCollum singled to score Lafayette alum Brayden Luikart.&nbsp; But the A's would go on to score four runs in the fourth inning, two of them scoring on a throwing error by Luikart who was in right field on the night.&nbsp;Clarinda would hold the lead for the remainder of the game adding runs in the sixth, two in the eighth, and their final two runs coming in the ninth.&nbsp; The Mustangs would score runs in the sixth and eighth innings.&nbsp;St. Joe kept up in the hit column, despite only scoring three runs, with the A's getting 10 hits to the Mustangs nine. Luikart led the way batting going 3 for 5 on the night with two runs scored.&nbsp;On the mound, Michael Infranca started giving up four runs, only one earned, with one strikeout. Manny Pena and Benton alum Tanner Schmidt pitched in relief.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mustangs are now 13-7 overall on the year, 11-7 in MINK league play, and are in second place in the MINK League north division behind the A's.&nbsp; St. Joseph will be back at Phil Welch Stadium on Saturday against the Des Moines Peak Prospects.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7pm

Fielding errors cost Mustangs in 9-3 loss to Clarinda Friday night

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla (AP) — RaysJose Siri homered and drove in four runs, Zach Eflin won his ninth game and the MLB-leading Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 11-3 on Friday night.

Siri had a three-run homer in the second inning and gave the Rays a 4-3 led with an RBI single in the fourth.

Eflin (9-3) improved to 8-0 in eight home starts, allowing three runs and seven hits over six innings.

Nick Pratto and Salvador Perez homered for the Royals, who have the majors second-worst record at 21-55 . Perez was checked by a trainer in the fifth inning and was replaced by Freddy Fermin at catcher one inning later due to a right hamstring cramp.

The Royals won the opener of a four-game series 6-5 on Thursday night. Tampa Bay, 53-26 overall, is 33-9 in home games.

Harold Ramírez ended Greinke's night with an RBI single to start a four-run fifth that made it 8-3. Reliever Jose Cuas entered and allowed all three batters he faced to reach base, including Taylor Walls' two-run single and a run-scoring double by Christian Bethancourt.

Randy Arozarena picked up his 54th RBI on a single during a three-run eighth that put Tampa Bay ahead 11-3.

Pratto homered on Eflin's second pitch of the game, and Perez had a two-run drive in the third inning that tied the game at 3.

Tampa Bay SS Wander Franco didn't play for the second straight day as he addresses handling frustrating situations.

“There's really nothing new,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Just continuing to support him.”

Franco watched the game from the dugout. The 22-year-old was sent home before Thursday's game.

Cash said Franco would be benched for at least two games.

Royals: OF Matt Beaty, involved in a scary collision Wednesday at Detroit, went on the seven-day concussion list.

Royals RHP Jordan Lyles (0-11) looks to end a season opening 15-start winless streak on Saturday. LHP Vida Blue held the Kansas City record of 14 set in 1983. Rays RHP Yonny Chirinos (3-2) will start or follow an opener.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687570769526.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez watches his two-run home run off Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Zach Eflin during the third inning of a baseball game Friday, June 23, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez watches his two-run home run off Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Zach Eflin during the third inning of a baseball game Friday, June 23, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. PETERSBURG, Fla (AP) — RaysJose Siri homered and drove in four runs, Zach Eflin won his ninth game and the MLB-leading Tampa Bay Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 11-3 on Friday night.Siri had a three-run homer in the second inning and gave the Rays a 4-3 led with an RBI single in the fourth.Eflin (9-3) improved to 8-0 in eight home starts, allowing three runs and seven hits over six innings.Nick Pratto and Salvador Perez homered for the Royals, who have the majors second-worst record at 21-55 . Perez was checked by a trainer in the fifth inning and was replaced by Freddy Fermin at catcher one inning later due to a right hamstring cramp.The Royals won the opener of a four-game series 6-5 on Thursday night. Tampa Bay, 53-26 overall, is 33-9 in home games.Harold Ramírez ended Greinke's night with an RBI single to start a four-run fifth that made it 8-3. Reliever Jose Cuas entered and allowed all three batters he faced to reach base, including Taylor Walls' two-run single and a run-scoring double by Christian Bethancourt.Randy Arozarena picked up his 54th RBI on a single during a three-run eighth that put Tampa Bay ahead 11-3.Pratto homered on Eflin's second pitch of the game, and Perez had a two-run drive in the third inning that tied the game at 3.BENCHING CONTINUESTampa Bay SS Wander Franco didn't play for the second straight day as he addresses handling frustrating situations.“There's really nothing new,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “Just continuing to support him.”Franco watched the game from the dugout. The 22-year-old was sent home before Thursday's game.Cash said Franco would be benched for at least two games.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: OF Matt Beaty, involved in a scary collision Wednesday at Detroit, went on the seven-day concussion list.UP NEXTRoyals RHP Jordan Lyles (0-11) looks to end a season opening 15-start winless streak on Saturday. LHP Vida Blue held the Kansas City record of 14 set in 1983. Rays RHP Yonny Chirinos (3-2) will start or follow an opener.

Jose Siri drives in 4 runs and Zach Eflin earns his 9th win as Rays beat Royals 11-3

Charlie Phillips made a name for himself at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. The 26-year-old power lifter from Savannah won three silver medals and a bronze medal Friday.

He competed between 3-6 a.m. central time Friday morning in competition streamed on ESPN+.

Phillips competed in the men’s squat, men’s deadlift, men’s bench press and men’s all-around competition.

Men’s Squat: Silver Medal – 162.5 kg | 358.25 lbs

Men’s Bench Press: Silver Medal – 115 kg | 253.5 lbs

Men’s Deadlift: Bronze Medal – 197.5 kg | 435.5 lbs

“I just can’t wait to come back and show everyone all the medals I have,” Phillips said. “Follow your dreams. It doesn’t matter if you win or lose. It’s all about having fun.”

The city of Savannah is holding a welcome back parade for Phillips on Tuesday night at 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687547910234.jpeg" alt="Charlie Phillips competes in Berlin on Friday." />
 <figcaption>Charlie Phillips competes in Berlin on Friday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC St. Joseph PostCharlie Phillips made a name for himself at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. The 26-year-old power lifter from Savannah won three silver medals and a bronze medal Friday. He competed between 3-6 a.m. central time Friday morning in competition streamed on ESPN+.Phillips competed in the men’s squat, men’s deadlift, men’s bench press and men’s all-around competition.His results are below:Men’s Squat: Silver Medal – 162.5 kg | 358.25 lbsMen’s Bench Press: Silver Medal – 115 kg | 253.5 lbsMen’s Deadlift: Bronze Medal – 197.5 kg | 435.5 lbsMen’s All-Around: Silver Medal“I just can’t wait to come back and show everyone all the medals I have,” Phillips said. “Follow your dreams. It doesn’t matter if you win or lose. It’s all about having fun.”The city of Savannah is holding a welcome back parade for Phillips on Tuesday night at 6 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687547932659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MUST-WATCH: Charlie Phillips gave it his all at the <a href="https://twitter.com/SOWG_Berlin2023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SOWG_Berlin2023</a>, and this interview with <a href="https://twitter.com/kelseyriggs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kelseyriggs</a> is EVERYTHING! All of the emotions! We are SO proud of you Charlie! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOMOPremier?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOMOPremier</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4USA</a> &quot;My dream has come true, and I&#39;m like <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelPhelps?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MichaelPhelps</a>&quot; <a href="https://t.co/KoRWNEL2lj">pic.twitter.com/KoRWNEL2lj</a>&mdash; Special Olympics MO (@SOMissouri) <a href="https://twitter.com/SOMissouri/status/1672197601863643141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Charlie Phillips wins three silvers, bronze medal at Special Olympics World Games

The St. Joseph Mustangs notched 11 hits and took advantage of four errors to beat the Ban Johnson Raiders 11-7 at Phil Welch Stadium Thursday.

St. Joseph (13-7) overcame an early 2-0 deficit, scoring three runs in the third inning and five in the fourth to lead it 8-4. The Mustangs never trailed after, adding another run in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings.

Noah Bodenhausen, Trevor McCollum, Aron Harrington and Will Dryburg each had two hits in the win. Dryburg had a team-best three runs scored. Bodenhausen, McCollum and Cole Slibowski each scored twice.

On the mound, Mason Holton got the win in four innings, striking out seven and walking no one. He allowed eight hits and three earned runs.

The Mustangs' pitching staff struck out 13 batters in all Thursday.

St. Joseph stays home Friday to host Joplin. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687520211490.jpeg" alt="Mason Holton. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mason Holton. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs notched 11 hits and took advantage of four errors to beat the Ban Johnson Raiders 11-7 at Phil Welch Stadium Thursday.St. Joseph (13-7) overcame an early 2-0 deficit, scoring three runs in the third inning and five in the fourth to lead it 8-4. The Mustangs never trailed after, adding another run in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings.Noah Bodenhausen, Trevor McCollum, Aron Harrington and Will Dryburg each had two hits in the win. Dryburg had a team-best three runs scored. Bodenhausen, McCollum and Cole Slibowski each scored twice.On the mound, Mason Holton got the win in four innings, striking out seven and walking no one. He allowed eight hits and three earned runs.The Mustangs' pitching staff struck out 13 batters in all Thursday.St. Joseph stays home Friday to host Joplin. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687520231734.jpeg" alt="Noah Bodenhausen." />
 <figcaption>Noah Bodenhausen.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687520265179.jpeg" alt="Trevor McCollum (right) and Aron Harrington (left)." />
 <figcaption>Trevor McCollum (right) and Aron Harrington (left).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs win offensive shootout against Ban Johnson Thursday

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — The major league-leading Tampa Bay Rays lost ace Shane McClanahan to mid-back tightness in a 6-5 loss to the lowly Kansas City Royals. 

McClanahan was looking to become the majors’ first 12-game winner of the year before leaving with two outs in the fourth. The left-hander, 11-1 this season, gave up two runs, four hits and two walks in a 66-pitch outing. Maikel Garcia drew a walk from Pete Fairbanks (0-2) to start the ninth, then stole second and third. After Fairbanks got a pair of strikeouts, Garcia scored on MJ Melendez’s infield single down the first-base line to put the Royals ahead 6-5. 

Aroldis Chapman (3-2) struck out the side in a perfect eighth, and Scott Barlow finished for his ninth save.

The Royals face the Rays again Friday evening at 5:40 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — The major league-leading Tampa Bay Rays lost ace Shane McClanahan to mid-back tightness in a 6-5 loss to the lowly Kansas City Royals. McClanahan was looking to become the majors’ first 12-game winner of the year before leaving with two outs in the fourth. The left-hander, 11-1 this season, gave up two runs, four hits and two walks in a 66-pitch outing. Maikel Garcia drew a walk from Pete Fairbanks (0-2) to start the ninth, then stole second and third. After Fairbanks got a pair of strikeouts, Garcia scored on MJ Melendez’s infield single down the first-base line to put the Royals ahead 6-5. Aroldis Chapman (3-2) struck out the side in a perfect eighth, and Scott Barlow finished for his ninth save.The Royals face the Rays again Friday evening at 5:40 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

MLB-best Rays lose ace McClanahan to back injury, and game 6-5 to lowly Royals

<a href="https://www.stjoemustangs.com/">The St. Joseph Mustangs</a> baseball club will have no less than
three fireworks shows at Phil Welch Stadium to celebrate the nation’s
independence before moving into the playoff stretch run.

Mustangs’ owner and General Manager Ky Turner says the team
fills its summer with several community events.

“This is not like it’s me, it’s the organization,” Turner
tells host Tommy Rezac on the KFEQ Hotline. “We’re always moving, always doing
something. There’s always something happening. We’re trying to use our platform
of sports for good, for the community, as a source of pride, if we can make
someone smile.”

Turner says the team wants to celebrate Independence Day with
its fans, but also prepare for some very important games.

“We’ve got the full 360 fireworks going on,” Turner says. “Really,
it’s just a summertime tradition and once July 4th hits, that
playoff race is very thick at that point, too. We know homefield advantage is
important, because we want to play here in St. Joe and that’s when we turn it
on.”

The Mustangs begin their Independence Day celebration early
this year. On Saturday, July 1st, the Mustangs honor local high
school sports teams and have a fireworks display after the game at Phil Welch.
On Monday, the 3rd, veterans and active military members will receive free
General Admission tickets with a fireworks show afterward. And, on the 4th,
the St. Joseph Symphony Brass will play before the game. There will be a Little
Mister and Little Miss Mustang Competition as well as the traditional
Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659242393958.jpeg" alt="Mustangs general manager and owner Ky Turner addresses the crowd as the players celebrate their 3rd championship/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Mustangs general manager and owner Ky Turner addresses the crowd as the players celebrate their 3rd championship/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph Post<a href="https://www.stjoemustangs.com/">The St. Joseph Mustangs</a> baseball club will have no less than
three fireworks shows at Phil Welch Stadium to celebrate the nation’s
independence before moving into the playoff stretch run.Mustangs’ owner and General Manager Ky Turner says the team
fills its summer with several community events.“This is not like it’s me, it’s the organization,” Turner
tells host Tommy Rezac on the KFEQ Hotline. “We’re always moving, always doing
something. There’s always something happening. We’re trying to use our platform
of sports for good, for the community, as a source of pride, if we can make
someone smile.”Turner says the team wants to celebrate Independence Day with
its fans, but also prepare for some very important games.“We’ve got the full 360 fireworks going on,” Turner says. “Really,
it’s just a summertime tradition and once July 4th hits, that
playoff race is very thick at that point, too. We know homefield advantage is
important, because we want to play here in St. Joe and that’s when we turn it
on.”The Mustangs begin their Independence Day celebration early
this year. On Saturday, July 1st, the Mustangs honor local high
school sports teams and have a fireworks display after the game at Phil Welch.
On Monday, the 3rd, veterans and active military members will receive free
General Admission tickets with a fireworks show afterward. And, on the 4th,
the St. Joseph Symphony Brass will play before the game. There will be a Little
Mister and Little Miss Mustang Competition as well as the traditional
Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular.The Mustangs are 12-and-7 on the year.

St. Joseph Mustangs plan 3 fireworks displays Independence Day weekend

The St. Joseph Mustangs had the tying run on second in the ninth inning and got a strong outing from pitcher Ty Hilsabeck, but the Chillicothe Mudcats came away with a 5-4 win in Chillicothe Wednesday.

Hilsabeck, a Savannah native, struck out six and walked only two in seven innings on the mound. He allowed seven hits and three earned runs.

Another former Savage, Noah Bodenhausen, went 3-for-3 at the plate and scored two runs. Ryan Callahan went 3-for-4.

The Mustangs fall to 12-7 on the season. St. Joseph opens a three-game homestand Thursday night against the Ban Johnson Raiders. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686829746857.jpeg" alt="Ty Hilsabeck. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ty Hilsabeck. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs had the tying run on second in the ninth inning and got a strong outing from pitcher Ty Hilsabeck, but the Chillicothe Mudcats came away with a 5-4 win in Chillicothe Wednesday.Hilsabeck, a Savannah native, struck out six and walked only two in seven innings on the mound. He allowed seven hits and three earned runs.Another former Savage, Noah Bodenhausen, went 3-for-3 at the plate and scored two runs. Ryan Callahan went 3-for-4.The Mustangs fall to 12-7 on the season. St. Joseph opens a three-game homestand Thursday night against the Ban Johnson Raiders. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs fall in close game at Chillicothe Wednesday

DETROIT (AP) — Zack Short homered and drove in two runs, Javier Báez got his 1,000th career hit and the Detroit Tigers beat the slumping Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Wednesday.

Matthew Boyd (5-5) allowed two runs and six hits in six innings for Detroit. He struck out seven without a walk.

Brady Singer (4-7) lost his third straight decision, giving up five runs, seven hits and a walk in seven innings.

The Royals took a 2-0 lead in the second. Maikel Garcia and Samad Taylor singled before Freddy Fermin hit a line drive to left-center field. Left fielder Andy Ibañez and center fielder Matt Vierling both went for the ball, which evaded Ibañez's reach then bounced off the wall and past Vierling for a two-run double.

Eric Haase tied it with a two-run double in the bottom of the inning, and Short made it 3-2 with an RBI single.

Báez put the Tigers ahead 4-2 in the third, driving in Kerry Carpenter with his 1,000th hit.

Short led off the fifth with his fourth homer, giving the Tigers a three-run lead.

Kansas City second baseman Taylor and right fielder Matt Beaty collided going after Spencer Torkelson's shallow fly ball to lead off the eighth. Both players stayed down for several minutes, but Taylor stayed in the game and Beaty walked off under his own power.

Torkelson ended up on third and scored on Báez's single over a drawn-in infield. The Tigers added three more runs in the inning for a 9-3 lead.

Moments after Taylor was shaken up by the collision with Beaty, he was taken out on a hard slide by Jake Marisnick while trying to turn a double play. In the ninth, he was hit on the left hand by a 94.4 mph fastball but stayed in the game after another visit with the trainer. Adding insult to injury, after a review, it was ruled a foul ball.

Kansas City will travel to Florida for a four-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Neither team has announced a starter for Thursday's opener.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 5:40pm with pregame at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687377329338.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Nick Pratto reacts after striking out to end the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Nick Pratto reacts after striking out to end the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Zack Short homered and drove in two runs, Javier Báez got his 1,000th career hit and the Detroit Tigers beat the slumping Kansas City Royals 9-4 on Wednesday.The Royals have lost 15 of 18 games.Matthew Boyd (5-5) allowed two runs and six hits in six innings for Detroit. He struck out seven without a walk.Brady Singer (4-7) lost his third straight decision, giving up five runs, seven hits and a walk in seven innings.The Royals took a 2-0 lead in the second. Maikel Garcia and Samad Taylor singled before Freddy Fermin hit a line drive to left-center field. Left fielder Andy Ibañez and center fielder Matt Vierling both went for the ball, which evaded Ibañez's reach then bounced off the wall and past Vierling for a two-run double.Eric Haase tied it with a two-run double in the bottom of the inning, and Short made it 3-2 with an RBI single.Báez put the Tigers ahead 4-2 in the third, driving in Kerry Carpenter with his 1,000th hit.Short led off the fifth with his fourth homer, giving the Tigers a three-run lead.Kansas City second baseman Taylor and right fielder Matt Beaty collided going after Spencer Torkelson's shallow fly ball to lead off the eighth. Both players stayed down for several minutes, but Taylor stayed in the game and Beaty walked off under his own power.Torkelson ended up on third and scored on Báez's single over a drawn-in infield. The Tigers added three more runs in the inning for a 9-3 lead.ROUGH FINISHMoments after Taylor was shaken up by the collision with Beaty, he was taken out on a hard slide by Jake Marisnick while trying to turn a double play. In the ninth, he was hit on the left hand by a 94.4 mph fastball but stayed in the game after another visit with the trainer. Adding insult to injury, after a review, it was ruled a foul ball.UP NEXTKansas City will travel to Florida for a four-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Neither team has announced a starter for Thursday's opener.&nbsp; First pitch is set for 5:40pm with pregame at 5 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687377415738.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals second baseman Samad Taylor (0) and right fielder Matt Beaty collide as they chase the tripe hit by Detroit Tigers' Spencer Torkelson during the eighth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals second baseman Samad Taylor (0) and right fielder Matt Beaty collide as they chase the tripe hit by Detroit Tigers' Spencer Torkelson during the eighth inning of a baseball game, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Zack Short homers, Javier Báez gets 1,000th hit to lead Tigers over Royals 9-4

The St. Joseph Mustangs got down 4-1 early and never recovered, as the Sedalia Bombers ended the Mustangs’ six-game winning streak with an 8-5 win at Liberty Park Stadium in Sedalia Tuesday.

Sedalia scored four runs in the bottom of the third to take their first lead. They added three insurance runs in the seventh and another in the eighth.

St. Joseph scored two runs in the ninth and had two runners on base, but the rally came up short.

Mason Holton and Michael Paule each had two hits for the Mustangs. The St. Joseph pitching staff issued 13 walks in the loss.

The Mustangs fall to 12-6 on the season. St. Joseph is back on the road Wednesday to face Chillicothe. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs got down 4-1 early and never recovered, as the Sedalia Bombers ended the Mustangs’ six-game winning streak with an 8-5 win at Liberty Park Stadium in Sedalia Tuesday.Sedalia scored four runs in the bottom of the third to take their first lead. They added three insurance runs in the seventh and another in the eighth.St. Joseph scored two runs in the ninth and had two runners on base, but the rally came up short.Mason Holton and Michael Paule each had two hits for the Mustangs. The St. Joseph pitching staff issued 13 walks in the loss.The Mustangs fall to 12-6 on the season. St. Joseph is back on the road Wednesday to face Chillicothe. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs fall at Sedalia Tuesday, ending six-game win streak

DETROIT (AP) — Daniel Lynch allowed one hit over seven innings for his first major league win in almost 11 months, and the struggling Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 1-0.

 Kansas City had lost 12 of 13. Matt Beaty, making his first start for the Royals, drove in the only run with a sixth-inning double. Aroldis Chapman walked the bases loaded in the eighth, but Spencer Torkelson grounded into an inning-ending force at second. Javier Báez doubled with one out in the ninth for Detroit, but Scott Barlow retired the next two hitters for his eighth save, completing the two-hitter.

 Lynch had gone 0-9 in 15 starts since beating the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 1 last year. The only hit off him was Andy Ibañez’s single in the fourth.

The Royals face the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon at 12:10 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

DETROIT (AP) — Daniel Lynch allowed one hit over seven innings for his first major league win in almost 11 months, and the struggling Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 1-0. Kansas City had lost 12 of 13. Matt Beaty, making his first start for the Royals, drove in the only run with a sixth-inning double. Aroldis Chapman walked the bases loaded in the eighth, but Spencer Torkelson grounded into an inning-ending force at second. Javier Báez doubled with one out in the ninth for Detroit, but Scott Barlow retired the next two hitters for his eighth save, completing the two-hitter. Lynch had gone 0-9 in 15 starts since beating the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 1 last year. The only hit off him was Andy Ibañez’s single in the fourth.The Royals face the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon at 12:10 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Lynch holds the Tigers to 1 hit in 7 innings as the struggling Royals win 1-0

St. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Brayden Luikart has had, for a number of years now, a bright baseball future.

An honorable mention all-state selection as a freshman, Luikart soared in his senior season, being named Missouri's Player of the Year in 2021. He helped the Irish to a third place finish in the Class 4 Final Four that spring.

Luikart batted a staggering .589 and recorded 95 strikeouts in Lafayette's best baseball season to date.

"I think the kind of guys we had in the locker room and off the field is what made that special," Luikart said to KFEQ Radio. "Coach (Matt) Jansen took us under his wing and showed us the ropes and we went from there. I feel like the product on the field was how he bonded off the field."

An Oklahoma commit at the time, Luikart spent the 2022 season in Norman before transferring to Johnson County Community College in Overland Park.

Luikart shined in his one season with the Cavaliers, batting .321 and recording 93 putouts as an outfielder in 2023. He helped the team to a 56-10 record and a JUCO World Series berth.

The effort also earned Luikart Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference and Region 6 Gold Glove honors. He's the first JCCC outfielder in history to receive those accolades.

This past season also landed Luikart an offer to play at Wichita State, and he committed to the Shockers on June 17.

"Wichita was a great spot for me," he said. "The coaching staff there, I love them. I have experience with them as well. So, when they offered me, it was kind of a no-brainer."

Some time before that, Mustangs head coach Johnny Coy talked to Luikart about spending his summer with the St. Joseph Mustangs - the three-time defending MINK League champions and a team that Luikart had spent his youth cheering on.

"It was a no-brainer for me," Luikart said of Coy's invitation. "Growing up watching these guys, you have to play for them for at least a year if you're from St. Joe and this is my year to do it. Hopefully, many more to come."

Luikart has had a solid summer thus far with the Mustangs, batting .257 in his first 10 starts, scoring nine runs on nine hits, including a triple and a home run.

He's helped the Mustangs to a 12-5 start in 2023, including a six-game winning streak entering their Tuesday night contest at Sedalia.

Luikart and the rest of the team are seeking a fourth straight title for the franchise and the ninth overall since the Mustangs' first season in 2009.

However it shakes out, Luikart couldn't imagine a better place to be spending his summer playing the game that he loves.

"It's special, because you grow up watching these Mustangs and grow up coming to these games and getting autographs and then you're one of them," Luikart said. 

"You kind of give back to the community you're raised in and played in. It's a great feeling, and I love the fans here."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622771810026.jpeg" alt="Brayden Luikart (center, left) was one of six seniors who helped the Lafayette baseball team to a third place finish at state in 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Brayden Luikart (center, left) was one of six seniors who helped the Lafayette baseball team to a third place finish at state in 2021. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Brayden Luikart has had, for a number of years now, a bright baseball future.An honorable mention all-state selection as a freshman, Luikart soared in his senior season, being named Missouri's Player of the Year in 2021. He helped the Irish to a third place finish in the Class 4 Final Four that spring.Luikart batted a staggering .589 and recorded 95 strikeouts in Lafayette's best baseball season to date."I think the kind of guys we had in the locker room and off the field is what made that special," Luikart said to KFEQ Radio. "Coach (Matt) Jansen took us under his wing and showed us the ropes and we went from there. I feel like the product on the field was how he bonded off the field."An Oklahoma commit at the time, Luikart spent the 2022 season in Norman before transferring to Johnson County Community College in Overland Park.Luikart shined in his one season with the Cavaliers, batting .321 and recording 93 putouts as an outfielder in 2023. He helped the team to a 56-10 record and a JUCO World Series berth.The effort also earned Luikart Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference and Region 6 Gold Glove honors. He's the first JCCC outfielder in history to receive those accolades.This past season also landed Luikart an offer to play at Wichita State, and he committed to the Shockers on June 17."Wichita was a great spot for me," he said. "The coaching staff there, I love them. I have experience with them as well. So, when they offered me, it was kind of a no-brainer."Some time before that, Mustangs head coach Johnny Coy talked to Luikart about spending his summer with the St. Joseph Mustangs - the three-time defending MINK League champions and a team that Luikart had spent his youth cheering on."It was a no-brainer for me," Luikart said of Coy's invitation. "Growing up watching these guys, you have to play for them for at least a year if you're from St. Joe and this is my year to do it. Hopefully, many more to come."Luikart has had a solid summer thus far with the Mustangs, batting .257 in his first 10 starts, scoring nine runs on nine hits, including a triple and a home run.He's helped the Mustangs to a 12-5 start in 2023, including a six-game winning streak entering their Tuesday night contest at Sedalia.Luikart and the rest of the team are seeking a fourth straight title for the franchise and the ninth overall since the Mustangs' first season in 2009.However it shakes out, Luikart couldn't imagine a better place to be spending his summer playing the game that he loves."It's special, because you grow up watching these Mustangs and grow up coming to these games and getting autographs and then you're one of them," Luikart said. "You kind of give back to the community you're raised in and played in. It's a great feeling, and I love the fans here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686194940596.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687304918089.jpeg" alt="Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620177774645.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Full interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayette-graduate--St--Joseph-Mustang-and-Wichita-State-commit-Brayden-Luikart-e260061" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette alum, first-year Mustang Brayden Luikart headed for Wichita State

A Savannah man and Special Olympics powerlifter is getting set to compete on the biggest stage this week.

Twenty-six year-old Charlie Phillips arrived in Berlin, Germany last week as he gets set to take part in the 2023 Special Olympics World Games on Friday in several powerlifting competitions.

During an interview with Tim Tebow on ESPN's Get Up Monday, Phillips said the opening ceremony this past Saturday was unforgettable.

"I kind of had tears running down my face," Phillips said excitedly. "It felt like a live moment. It felt amazing, seeing everyone out there with their phones out and taking pictures. I took a video of myself on my phone and I was waving. It was amazing!"

Phillips started competing for Special Olympics more than 15 years ago. He earned his spot in this year's World Games this past November at the Team USA trials in San Antonio, Texas.&nbsp;He squatted over 400 pounds, and deadlifted over 500 to qualify.

On June 9, Savannah leaders organized a parade to honor Phillips, who&nbsp; rode in that parade on the front of a fire truck.

Phillips says he got to meet a special guest that day, who was waiting with the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

"It was pretty cool to meet Andy Reid," he said, "and touch the trophy that's pretty cool. I told him I'm an Eagles fan."

Now that he's in Germany, Phillips says he now has one goal in mind.

"I'm trying to go for gold in every lift and trying to get a PR for a gold medal."

Phillips will compete this Friday in men’s squat, men’s deadlift, men’s bench press and men’s combined squat between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. local time. Special Olympics coverage is being streamed on ESPN+.

Phillips has been lifting since he was 10. A multi-sport athlete, he's competed in the 2018 Special Olympics USA games as a powerlifter as well.

Now getting to achieve his goal of making the World Games, Phillips says the key to getting there was simply never giving up.

"Having fun, work hard and be yourself," he said. "It doesn't matter who's stopping you. Don't listen to them. Listen to your body. Listen to yourself and you'll do the best that you can."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687283077569.jpeg" alt="Charlie Phillips (right) is interviewed live on ESPN by Tim Tebow." />
 <figcaption>Charlie Phillips (right) is interviewed live on ESPN by Tim Tebow.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA Savannah man and Special Olympics powerlifter is getting set to compete on the biggest stage this week.Twenty-six year-old Charlie Phillips arrived in Berlin, Germany last week as he gets set to take part in the 2023 Special Olympics World Games on Friday in several powerlifting competitions.During an interview with Tim Tebow on ESPN's Get Up Monday, Phillips said the opening ceremony this past Saturday was unforgettable."I kind of had tears running down my face," Phillips said excitedly. "It felt like a live moment. It felt amazing, seeing everyone out there with their phones out and taking pictures. I took a video of myself on my phone and I was waving. It was amazing!"Phillips started competing for Special Olympics more than 15 years ago. He earned his spot in this year's World Games this past November at the Team USA trials in San Antonio, Texas.&nbsp;He squatted over 400 pounds, and deadlifted over 500 to qualify.On June 9, Savannah leaders organized a parade to honor Phillips, who&nbsp; rode in that parade on the front of a fire truck.Phillips says he got to meet a special guest that day, who was waiting with the Vince Lombardi Trophy."It was pretty cool to meet Andy Reid," he said, "and touch the trophy that's pretty cool. I told him I'm an Eagles fan."Now that he's in Germany, Phillips says he now has one goal in mind."I'm trying to go for gold in every lift and trying to get a PR for a gold medal."Phillips will compete this Friday in men’s squat, men’s deadlift, men’s bench press and men’s combined squat between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. local time. Special Olympics coverage is being streamed on ESPN+.Phillips has been lifting since he was 10. A multi-sport athlete, he's competed in the 2018 Special Olympics USA games as a powerlifter as well.Now getting to achieve his goal of making the World Games, Phillips says the key to getting there was simply never giving up."Having fun, work hard and be yourself," he said. "It doesn't matter who's stopping you. Don't listen to them. Listen to your body. Listen to yourself and you'll do the best that you can."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687283154497.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687283174567.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“It felt amazing!” Powerlifter Charlie Phillips shared what the <a href="https://twitter.com/SpecialOlympics?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpecialOlympics</a> Opening Ceremony meant to him and how he told Andy Reid that he&#39;s an Eagles fan 😂❤️ <a href="https://t.co/HTUXE4JZPm">pic.twitter.com/HTUXE4JZPm</a>&mdash; Get Up (@GetUpESPN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GetUpESPN/status/1670788985650655234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</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.

Charlie Phillips getting ready, excited for World Games competition Friday

DETROIT (AP) — Kerry Carpenter’s three-run homer capped a five-run seventh inning as the Detroit Tigers rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4. Detroit trailed 4-0 before scoring the game’s final six runs. 

The loss dropped Kansas City to 0-15 in Jordan Lyles’ starts this season. Lyles allowed three runs on six hits and a walk in six-plus innings. He struck out three.

The Royals face the Tigers again Tuesday evening at 5:40 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

DETROIT (AP) — Kerry Carpenter’s three-run homer capped a five-run seventh inning as the Detroit Tigers rallied to beat the Kansas City Royals 6-4. Detroit trailed 4-0 before scoring the game’s final six runs. The loss dropped Kansas City to 0-15 in Jordan Lyles’ starts this season. Lyles allowed three runs on six hits and a walk in six-plus innings. He struck out three.The Royals face the Tigers again Tuesday evening at 5:40 central. The game is on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Carpenter's three-run homer rallies Tigers past Lyles, Royals

The St. Joseph Mustangs extended their win streak to six games with a 6-2 win at Carroll, Iowa Sunday.

Lafayette alum and now Wichita State commit Brayden Luikart led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored. On the mound, Northwest Missouri State’s Andrew Clark got the win in six innings, allowing just three hits and one earned run.

St. Joseph improves to 12-5 overall and now takes over first place in the MINK League’s North Division.

After playing for 17 consecutive days, the Mustangs are off Monday. They play at Sedalia on Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs extended their win streak to six games with a 6-2 win at Carroll, Iowa Sunday.Lafayette alum and now Wichita State commit Brayden Luikart led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two runs scored. On the mound, Northwest Missouri State’s Andrew Clark got the win in six innings, allowing just three hits and one earned run.St. Joseph improves to 12-5 overall and now takes over first place in the MINK League’s North Division.After playing for 17 consecutive days, the Mustangs are off Monday. They play at Sedalia on Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

Mustangs win sixth straight game Sunday, take over first place in MINK League North

KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout hit back-to-back home runs to help the Los Angeles Angels defeat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 on Sunday in the finale of a three-game series.

It's the sixth time this season, and 28th overall, that Ohtani and Trout have homered in the same game. The Angels are 6-0 this season and 20-8 overall when both players go deep.

“When I write Mike Trout in the lineup I feel pretty good about it, as any other manager in the league would,” Los Angeles manager Phil Nevin said. “You can't win games with just two guys, but if there are any guys back-to-back you can do it, it's those two. They can carry a team for quite a while.”

"They’ve certainly done that to a lot of pitchers over the years,” he said of LA's dynamic duo.

Ohtani saw the end of a six-game streak in which he recorded an extra-base hit, a walk and a run. The only other players in MLB history to accomplish that were Babe Ruth (seven times) and Barry Bonds (six).

The Royals fell to 3-19-1 in series in 2023. They have not won a series since May 15-17 in San Diego.

Tyler Anderson (4-1) surrendered two runs on six hits in five innings to earn the win. Carlos Estevez notched his 19th save in 19 tries.

“I felt like I threw mostly good pitches,” Anderson said. “Overall, I felt like I gave us a chance.”

Zack Greinke (1-7) allowed four runs on eight hits in five innings.

A day after blowing an 8-2 lead in the seventh inning, the Angels were thankful to walk out with a series victory.

“To come in here off that big series in Texas and losing a tough one last night, then come in here and turn the page was big,” Trout said.

The Royals got on the board in the second. Maikel Garcia legged out a double leading off. Samad Taylor sacrificed him to third and he scored on a single by Freddy Fermin.

The Angels tied it in the fourth but could have had more than one run. Trout led off with a double and scored on a single by Brandon Drury. Hunter Renfroe followed with a single and Los Angeles had runners on first and second with no outs. Greinke struck out Chad Wallach, then got Michael Stefanic to fly to deep right, advancing both runners. Luis Rengifo was hit by a pitch. Andrew Velazquez hit a sharp ground ball that struck Rengifo to end the inning.

The Royals regained the lead in the bottom of the fourth. Garcia led off with a single and stole second. Taylor lined a single up the middle to score Garcia.

That lead didn't last long, as Ohtani unloaded a 422-foot, two-run home run in the fifth, followed by Trout's 408-footer on the next pitch.

“It's cool walking into the dugout and Shohei handing me the (home run) hat,” Trout said. “What Shohei has been doing the last couple of weeks is unbelievable, but we've got guys stepping up and it's fun to be a part of.”

Jared Walsh led off the ninth with a solo home run.

Royals RHP Brad Keller threw a bullpen session on Sunday. Keller has been on the injured list since May 19 with right shoulder impingement. He is expected to go to Arizona for rehabilitation before an official rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha.

The Royals selected the contract of RHP Brooks Kriske from Triple-A Omaha. Kriske had five saves in 25 appearances, recording 47 strikeouts in 27 innings in Omaha. In a corresponding move, the Royals designated RHP Mike Mayers for assignment. ... IF Michael Massey was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to June 15) with a left-hand laceration. ... IF Vinnie Pasquantino was transferred from the 10-day IL to the 60-day IL. He is out for the season. ... IF/OF Matt Beaty was selected from Triple-A Omaha.

&nbsp;The Royals travel to Detroit, where they will start a three-game series against the Tigers. RHP Jordan Lyles (0-11, 6.89 ERA) will start for Kansas City against RHP Reese Olson (0-2, 6.08 ERA).&nbsp; First pitch is set for 6:10 pm with pregame at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687143169772.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Samad Taylor bunts during the second inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Sunday, June, 18, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Samad Taylor bunts during the second inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Sunday, June, 18, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo (AP) — Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout hit back-to-back home runs to help the Los Angeles Angels defeat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 on Sunday in the finale of a three-game series.It's the sixth time this season, and 28th overall, that Ohtani and Trout have homered in the same game. The Angels are 6-0 this season and 20-8 overall when both players go deep.“When I write Mike Trout in the lineup I feel pretty good about it, as any other manager in the league would,” Los Angeles manager Phil Nevin said. “You can't win games with just two guys, but if there are any guys back-to-back you can do it, it's those two. They can carry a team for quite a while.”Royals manager Matt Quatraro agreed."They’ve certainly done that to a lot of pitchers over the years,” he said of LA's dynamic duo.Ohtani saw the end of a six-game streak in which he recorded an extra-base hit, a walk and a run. The only other players in MLB history to accomplish that were Babe Ruth (seven times) and Barry Bonds (six).The Royals fell to 3-19-1 in series in 2023. They have not won a series since May 15-17 in San Diego.Tyler Anderson (4-1) surrendered two runs on six hits in five innings to earn the win. Carlos Estevez notched his 19th save in 19 tries.“I felt like I threw mostly good pitches,” Anderson said. “Overall, I felt like I gave us a chance.”Zack Greinke (1-7) allowed four runs on eight hits in five innings.A day after blowing an 8-2 lead in the seventh inning, the Angels were thankful to walk out with a series victory.“To come in here off that big series in Texas and losing a tough one last night, then come in here and turn the page was big,” Trout said.The Royals got on the board in the second. Maikel Garcia legged out a double leading off. Samad Taylor sacrificed him to third and he scored on a single by Freddy Fermin.The Angels tied it in the fourth but could have had more than one run. Trout led off with a double and scored on a single by Brandon Drury. Hunter Renfroe followed with a single and Los Angeles had runners on first and second with no outs. Greinke struck out Chad Wallach, then got Michael Stefanic to fly to deep right, advancing both runners. Luis Rengifo was hit by a pitch. Andrew Velazquez hit a sharp ground ball that struck Rengifo to end the inning.The Royals regained the lead in the bottom of the fourth. Garcia led off with a single and stole second. Taylor lined a single up the middle to score Garcia.That lead didn't last long, as Ohtani unloaded a 422-foot, two-run home run in the fifth, followed by Trout's 408-footer on the next pitch.“It's cool walking into the dugout and Shohei handing me the (home run) hat,” Trout said. “What Shohei has been doing the last couple of weeks is unbelievable, but we've got guys stepping up and it's fun to be a part of.”Jared Walsh led off the ninth with a solo home run.TRAINING ROOMRoyals RHP Brad Keller threw a bullpen session on Sunday. Keller has been on the injured list since May 19 with right shoulder impingement. He is expected to go to Arizona for rehabilitation before an official rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha.TRANSACTIONSThe Royals selected the contract of RHP Brooks Kriske from Triple-A Omaha. Kriske had five saves in 25 appearances, recording 47 strikeouts in 27 innings in Omaha. In a corresponding move, the Royals designated RHP Mike Mayers for assignment. ... IF Michael Massey was placed on the 10-day IL (retroactive to June 15) with a left-hand laceration. ... IF Vinnie Pasquantino was transferred from the 10-day IL to the 60-day IL. He is out for the season. ... IF/OF Matt Beaty was selected from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXT&nbsp;The Royals travel to Detroit, where they will start a three-game series against the Tigers. RHP Jordan Lyles (0-11, 6.89 ERA) will start for Kansas City against RHP Reese Olson (0-2, 6.08 ERA).&nbsp; First pitch is set for 6:10 pm with pregame at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM)

Ohtani, Trout homer to lead Angels past Royals 5-2

The St. Joseph Mustangs, or as they were known on Saturday the St. Joseph Tenderloins, were strong with The Force against the Nevada Griffons, winning 15-4 in seven innings on Star Wars Night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;

Mustangs starting pitcher Brandon Stone gave up a run in the top of first inning to the Griffons, but St. Joseph would take the lead for good in the bottom half scoring four runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;They would go on to add two more runs in the second inning, totaling six unanswered runs before Nevada would score again in the top of the third.&nbsp;

The Mustangs would go on to score two runs in the fourth, five runs in the fifth, and another two runs in the bottom of the sixth on way to the mercy rule win.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For a second night in a row Easton Bruce would hit a home run, moving his MINK league leading total to five, that home run as part of the scoring in the fifth inning driving in three of his four runs on the night, as he went 2-for-3 at the plate.&nbsp;

First baseman and outfielder Aron Harrington led the way in hits going 3-for-5 on the night.&nbsp; Lafayette alum and future Wichita State Shocker Brayden Luikart walked twice and scored three runs on the night, driving in one on his only hit of the night, a triple in the second inning.

On the mound St. Joseph got five innings from Stone as he struck out six and gave up three of the four Griffon runs on the night. St. Joseph Christian alum Camden Lutz pitched the final two innings giving up one run and striking out five.

The Mustangs are now 10-5 on the season, still just behind the Carroll Merchants who did not play on Saturday.&nbsp; St. Joseph will have a chance to gain a game on the Merchants today on the road with first pitch at 4pm.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs, or as they were known on Saturday the St. Joseph Tenderloins, were strong with The Force against the Nevada Griffons, winning 15-4 in seven innings on Star Wars Night at Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;Mustangs starting pitcher Brandon Stone gave up a run in the top of first inning to the Griffons, but St. Joseph would take the lead for good in the bottom half scoring four runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;They would go on to add two more runs in the second inning, totaling six unanswered runs before Nevada would score again in the top of the third.&nbsp;The Mustangs would go on to score two runs in the fourth, five runs in the fifth, and another two runs in the bottom of the sixth on way to the mercy rule win.&nbsp;&nbsp;For a second night in a row Easton Bruce would hit a home run, moving his MINK league leading total to five, that home run as part of the scoring in the fifth inning driving in three of his four runs on the night, as he went 2-for-3 at the plate.&nbsp;First baseman and outfielder Aron Harrington led the way in hits going 3-for-5 on the night.&nbsp; Lafayette alum and future Wichita State Shocker Brayden Luikart walked twice and scored three runs on the night, driving in one on his only hit of the night, a triple in the second inning.On the mound St. Joseph got five innings from Stone as he struck out six and gave up three of the four Griffon runs on the night. St. Joseph Christian alum Camden Lutz pitched the final two innings giving up one run and striking out five.The Mustangs are now 10-5 on the season, still just behind the Carroll Merchants who did not play on Saturday.&nbsp; St. Joseph will have a chance to gain a game on the Merchants today on the road with first pitch at 4pm.

The Force is with the Mustangs on Star Wars Night, win streak at five with 15-4 win

MORGANTOWN (AP) —West Virginia basketball coach Bob Huggins has resigned a day after his arrest on suspicion of drunken driving in the latest incident in a Hall of Fame career that imploded quickly.

The university announced the resignation Saturday night. It came a month after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/huggins-homophobic-slur-west-virginia-xavier-77ce70b41112a0062421ad9405558473">university suspended him for three games</a>&nbsp;for using an anti-gay slur while also denigrating Catholics during a radio interview.

The 69-year-old Huggins leaves as the third-winningest coach all-time in Division I with 935 career victories, behind only Mike Krzyzewski of Duke (1,202) and Jim Boeheim of Syracuse (1,015), both of whom are retired. Unlike the others, Huggins had no national titles, taking Cincinnati to the Final Four in 1992 and West Virginia in 2010.

Huggins had 16-year stints each with the Bearcats and Mountaineers. Both ended in the aftermath of arrests for drinking and driving.

MORGANTOWN (AP) —West Virginia basketball coach Bob Huggins has resigned a day after his arrest on suspicion of drunken driving in the latest incident in a Hall of Fame career that imploded quickly.The university announced the resignation Saturday night. It came a month after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/huggins-homophobic-slur-west-virginia-xavier-77ce70b41112a0062421ad9405558473">university suspended him for three games</a>&nbsp;for using an anti-gay slur while also denigrating Catholics during a radio interview.The 69-year-old Huggins leaves as the third-winningest coach all-time in Division I with 935 career victories, behind only Mike Krzyzewski of Duke (1,202) and Jim Boeheim of Syracuse (1,015), both of whom are retired. Unlike the others, Huggins had no national titles, taking Cincinnati to the Final Four in 1992 and West Virginia in 2010.Huggins had 16-year stints each with the Bearcats and Mountaineers. Both ended in the aftermath of arrests for drinking and driving.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687028787636.png" alt="Pittsburg police report on the DUI arrest" />
 <figcaption>Pittsburg police report on the DUI arrest</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687028832105.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Huggins was charged with driving under the influence on Friday night after his SUV had stopped in the middle of traffic in Pittsburgh with a shredded tire and the driver’s side door was open at about 8:30 p.m. According to a criminal complaint, a breath test determined Huggins’ blood alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit.Huggins was charged with driving under the influence, released from custody and will appear at a later date for a preliminary hearing, according to a police report.In a statement to the West Virginia community on Saturday night, Huggins said: “Today, I have submitted a letter to President Gordon Gee and Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker informing them of my resignation and intention to retire as head men’s basketball coach at West Virginia University effective immediately.”In a separate statement Saturday night, West Virginia’s athletic department said it accepted the resignation “in light of recent events.“We support his decision so that he can focus on his health and family. On behalf of West Virginia University, we share our appreciation for his service to our University, our community and our state."No replacement was immediately named for Huggins. The athletic department statement said that “in the days ahead, we will focus on supporting the student-athletes in our men’s basketball program and solidifying leadership for our program.”Huggins said his recent actions do not represent the university's values or the leadership expected in his role as coach.“While I have always tried to represent our University with honor, I have let all of you — and myself — down,” he said. “I am solely responsible for my conduct and sincerely apologize to the University community — particularly to the student-athletes, coaches and staff in our program. I must do better, and I plan to spend the next few months focused on my health and my family so that I can be the person they deserve.”Huggins added that it was “the honor of my professional career” to lead the team at his alma mater. Born in Morgantown, he said it “will always be my home, and I will always be a Mountaineer. Thank you to everyone who has supported our program over the years. It has meant more to me and my family than you could ever know.”Friday night, officers directed Huggins to move off the road so they could help with the tire, then activated their lights when they observed Huggins having trouble maneuvering the SUV to allow vehicles to pass. Upon questioning, officers suspected he was intoxicated and asked him to exit the vehicle. The report said he failed standard field sobriety tests, was taken into custody without incident and transported for further testing.It was Huggins’ second such arrest. The other occurred in 2004, when he was the head coach at Cincinnati.In June 2004, Huggins pleaded no contest to driving under the influence in a suburb of Cincinnati and was ordered to attend a three-day intervention program. The University of Cincinnati suspended him indefinitely with pay and told Huggins to rehabilitate himself.Huggins was allowed to return to work two months later, saying that “I made a terrible mistake, and what bothers me most is I hurt other people. All I can do is work like crazy to be a better person, a better coach, be better at everything I do and make those people proud of me.”By 2005, Huggins' Cincinnati career was over; he was fired amid a power struggle with the school’s president as well as the aftermath of the 2004 arrest.After spending one season at Kansas State, Huggins took his dream job at West Virginia, his alma mater, in 2007.Last month, Huggins agreed to a three-game suspension, a $1 million salary reduction and sensitivity training for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/huggins-homophobic-slur-west-virginia-665dd3d31760b1c6f66d7d706e825727">using the slur</a>&nbsp;during an interview with Cincinnati radio station WLW. Huggins was asked about the transfer portal and whether he had a chance of landing a player at West Virginia from Xavier, a Jesuit school.“Catholics don’t do that,” Huggins said. “I tell you what, any school that can throw rubber penises on the floor and then say they didn’t do it, by God they can get away with anything.“It was the Crosstown Shootout. What it was, was all those (expletive), those Catholic (expletive), I think.”In a joint statement later that week, Gee and Baker said the university “made it explicitly clear to Coach Huggins that any incidents of similar derogatory and offensive language will result in immediate termination.”Huggins’ salary of $4.15 million had been reduced by $1 million after the slur. That reduction was to be used to directly support WVU’s LGBTQ+ Center, as well as a mental health center at the university and other groups that support marginalized communities. At the time, he was suspended for the first three games of the 2023-24 season. In addition, his contract was amended from a multiyear agreement to a year-by-year agreement that began on May 10.Huggins entered the Basketball Hall of Fame last September. In 41 seasons, his teams have gone to 25 NCAA Tournaments, finished ranked in the top 10 of The Associated Press poll seven times and finished under .500 five times. The Mountaineers have 11 NCAA Tournament appearances under Huggins.Huggins had assembled a solid group from the transfer portal for next season, including Syracuse center Jesse Edwards, Arizona guard Kerr Kriisa, Manhattan guards Jose Perez and Omar Silverio, and Montana State guard RaeQuan Battle.“Man.. I knew the dude 3 months but felt like forever,” Kriisa said Saturday night on Twitter. “So thankful for really believing in me and taking me as part of your family forever. Love u coach.”___

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