Kyleigha Fenwick was seven years old, just starting grade school in St. Joseph when her dad, Tyler, got the call to become the head football coach at Missouri S&amp;T in 2013.

He had been Missouri Western's offensive coordinator since 2007.

Less than 10 years later, the Fenwick family was back in St. Joseph, as Tyler became Missouri Western's head football coach in December 2022.

Kyleigha, the oldest of the three Fenwick siblings, finished her junior year of high school in Durant, Oklahoma and enrolled at Central in 2023.

Having been a standout tennis player at Durant High, Fenwick joined the Indians' this past fall, helping Central to nine team victories. Fenwick herself was able to reach district quarterfinals in singles.

"It was hard at first," Fenwick admitted. "Just like going to the first couple of practices and meeting new people. But, I loved the team and I feel like we all got along really well and that made it a lot easier."

What's more, Fenwick's ability caught the eye of Missouri Western women's tennis coach Alejandro de la Torre.

Fenwick has now signed to play for de la Torre and the Griffons next year.

"I had a conversation with (De La Torre) a couple of weeks ago," Fenwick said. "That's what made me want to play and get to keep playing tennis."

Fenwick joins a Griffitas team that's been reaching historic heights the last couple of years.

Missouri Western won the Central Region championship for the first time ever last May, beating Northwest Missouri State and reaching the Sweet 16. The Griffons have raced out to an 11-1 start this season as well.

It's a Griffon team with just one American born player on roster currently - junior Ellie Messenger - an Arkansas City, Kansas native.

"They're so good this year and they're fun to watch," Fenwick added. "I'm really excited to meet them all and learn about where they've been. I met Ellie. I love her. She's so sweet."

Kyleigha has often accompanied her dad at football games through the years, including at Missouri Western. Now that she'll be enrolled as a student-athlete there, she hopes that trend continues.

"It's going to be interesting I think," she grinned. "Hopefully, it will go well."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712864553272.jpeg" alt="Kyleigha Fenwick (center) signs her national letter of intent to play tennis at Missouri Western State University Thursday. Surrounded by her parents Angela and Tyler and brothers Kadyen and Kiptyn." />
 <figcaption>Kyleigha Fenwick (center) signs her national letter of intent to play tennis at Missouri Western State University Thursday. Surrounded by her parents Angela and Tyler and brothers Kadyen and Kiptyn.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKyleigha Fenwick was seven years old, just starting grade school in St. Joseph when her dad, Tyler, got the call to become the head football coach at Missouri S&amp;T in 2013.He had been Missouri Western's offensive coordinator since 2007.Less than 10 years later, the Fenwick family was back in St. Joseph, as Tyler became Missouri Western's head football coach in December 2022.Kyleigha, the oldest of the three Fenwick siblings, finished her junior year of high school in Durant, Oklahoma and enrolled at Central in 2023.Having been a standout tennis player at Durant High, Fenwick joined the Indians' this past fall, helping Central to nine team victories. Fenwick herself was able to reach district quarterfinals in singles."It was hard at first," Fenwick admitted. "Just like going to the first couple of practices and meeting new people. But, I loved the team and I feel like we all got along really well and that made it a lot easier."What's more, Fenwick's ability caught the eye of Missouri Western women's tennis coach Alejandro de la Torre.Fenwick has now signed to play for de la Torre and the Griffons next year."I had a conversation with (De La Torre) a couple of weeks ago," Fenwick said. "That's what made me want to play and get to keep playing tennis."Fenwick joins a Griffitas team that's been reaching historic heights the last couple of years.Missouri Western won the Central Region championship for the first time ever last May, beating Northwest Missouri State and reaching the Sweet 16. The Griffons have raced out to an 11-1 start this season as well.It's a Griffon team with just one American born player on roster currently - junior Ellie Messenger - an Arkansas City, Kansas native."They're so good this year and they're fun to watch," Fenwick added. "I'm really excited to meet them all and learn about where they've been. I met Ellie. I love her. She's so sweet."Kyleigha has often accompanied her dad at football games through the years, including at Missouri Western. Now that she'll be enrolled as a student-athlete there, she hopes that trend continues."It's going to be interesting I think," she grinned. "Hopefully, it will go well."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712867262698.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Central's Kyleigha Fenwick signs to Missouri Western tennis

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino broke out of an early season slump with a home run and a career-high five RBIs to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-2 win over the Houston Astros on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory.

Pasquantino went 3 for 3 with a single, double, homer and a walk with two runs scored after entering the game 4 for 37 with four singles and no RBIs.

“I try not to consider it slumps or highs and lows,” he said. “I just try to consider it that you’re riding this roller coaster and you try to keep it as as much of a kiddie ride as you can. Obviously, the first week and a half wasn’t what I wanted statistically, but tonight felt good.

"The happiest person is probably going to be my wife because I probably won’t be tossing and turning all night. I imagine I’ll sleep a little bit better tonight. Some frustration set in for me. The beautiful thing is when you’re winning, it doesn’t matter.”

The Royals scored seven times in the third inning, jumpstarted by Pasquantino's two-run double. Kansas City, which had eight runs in the seventh against the Chicago White Sox on April 4, have multiple innings of seven or more runs in April for the first time since 2000.

Seth Lugo (2-0) allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. It was the Royals’ ninth quality start in 12 games, the most in the majors.

“If we keep the right mindset, we could do it all season,” Lugo said of the success of the starting pitching. “There’s no reason not to. Just make sure after a good game (or) a bad game flush it and move on (and) keep working.”

The Royals' six-game winning streak is their longest since last September, when they also won six straight — including a three-game sweep of the Astros in Houston. The Royals will go for a 7-0 homestand in Thursday's finale.

The Royals are 7-1 in their last eight games against the Astros.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro said he had seen Pasquantino pressing this season, but he had confidence his slugging first baseman would come around.

“We really feel Vinnie is a really quality major league hitter,” he said. “He’s played in 10 games or whatever prior to tonight. That’s a really small sample. He’s done it at this level before. We know he’s going to continue to do it.”

Spencer Arrighetti (0-1) made his big league debut and worked around trouble in his first two innings before giving up seven runs in his third and final inning. The Astros' top pitching prospect said his nerves and emotions were part of his struggle.

“When you want something that bad your whole life, you want it to be perfect," Arrighetti said. "You want it to go really smoothly and you want everything to feel good.

"But the reality is before the game I was a little bit of an anxious mess. I feel like I had to work harder to get my emotions down.”

The Royals batted around in the third. Pasquantino recorded his first extra-base hit and first two RBIs of the season with a two-run double. Salvador Perez single and MJ Melendez walked to load the bases before Nelson Velázquez stroked a two-run single to right.

Adam Frazier drove in Melendez with a single. Hunter Renfroe capped the scoring with a two-run double.

The Astros got a pair of runs in the fourth on a double by Yainer Diaz and a sacrifice fly by José Abreu.

But Pasquantino answered with his first homer of the season in the bottom of the fourth and drove in his fourth run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth. The Royals added two runs in the eighth, including an RBI single by Pasquantino.

The Astros will send RHP Hunter Brown (0-1, 6.43 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (1-0, 0.68).&nbsp; KFEQ will join first pitch at 1:10pm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712806261281.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) is congratulated after he scored in the third inning of the team's baseball against the Houston Astros, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino (9) is congratulated after he scored in the third inning of the team's baseball against the Houston Astros, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino broke out of an early season slump with a home run and a career-high five RBIs to lead the Kansas City Royals to an 11-2 win over the Houston Astros on Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory.Pasquantino went 3 for 3 with a single, double, homer and a walk with two runs scored after entering the game 4 for 37 with four singles and no RBIs.“I try not to consider it slumps or highs and lows,” he said. “I just try to consider it that you’re riding this roller coaster and you try to keep it as as much of a kiddie ride as you can. Obviously, the first week and a half wasn’t what I wanted statistically, but tonight felt good."The happiest person is probably going to be my wife because I probably won’t be tossing and turning all night. I imagine I’ll sleep a little bit better tonight. Some frustration set in for me. The beautiful thing is when you’re winning, it doesn’t matter.”The Royals scored seven times in the third inning, jumpstarted by Pasquantino's two-run double. Kansas City, which had eight runs in the seventh against the Chicago White Sox on April 4, have multiple innings of seven or more runs in April for the first time since 2000.Seth Lugo (2-0) allowed two runs and seven hits in six innings. It was the Royals’ ninth quality start in 12 games, the most in the majors.“If we keep the right mindset, we could do it all season,” Lugo said of the success of the starting pitching. “There’s no reason not to. Just make sure after a good game (or) a bad game flush it and move on (and) keep working.”The Royals' six-game winning streak is their longest since last September, when they also won six straight — including a three-game sweep of the Astros in Houston. The Royals will go for a 7-0 homestand in Thursday's finale.The Royals are 7-1 in their last eight games against the Astros.Royals manager Matt Quatraro said he had seen Pasquantino pressing this season, but he had confidence his slugging first baseman would come around.“We really feel Vinnie is a really quality major league hitter,” he said. “He’s played in 10 games or whatever prior to tonight. That’s a really small sample. He’s done it at this level before. We know he’s going to continue to do it.”Spencer Arrighetti (0-1) made his big league debut and worked around trouble in his first two innings before giving up seven runs in his third and final inning. The Astros' top pitching prospect said his nerves and emotions were part of his struggle.“When you want something that bad your whole life, you want it to be perfect," Arrighetti said. "You want it to go really smoothly and you want everything to feel good."But the reality is before the game I was a little bit of an anxious mess. I feel like I had to work harder to get my emotions down.”The Royals batted around in the third. Pasquantino recorded his first extra-base hit and first two RBIs of the season with a two-run double. Salvador Perez single and MJ Melendez walked to load the bases before Nelson Velázquez stroked a two-run single to right.Adam Frazier drove in Melendez with a single. Hunter Renfroe capped the scoring with a two-run double.The Astros got a pair of runs in the fourth on a double by Yainer Diaz and a sacrifice fly by José Abreu.But Pasquantino answered with his first homer of the season in the bottom of the fourth and drove in his fourth run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth. The Royals added two runs in the eighth, including an RBI single by Pasquantino.UP NEXTThe Astros will send RHP Hunter Brown (0-1, 6.43 ERA) to the mound to face RHP Brady Singer (1-0, 0.68).&nbsp; KFEQ will join first pitch at 1:10pm.

Pasquantino breaks out with 5 RBIs as Royals trounce Astros 11-2

Savannah dug itself an early six-run deficit after two innings, but got back in the game with five runs in the third.

The Savages (11-2) took the lead with four runs in the fourth and scored the go-ahead run in the seventh to outlast Benton, 12-11, at Hyde Park in St. Joseph Wednesday.

"They kept playing and I'm proud of them," Savannah head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "We talked after the game and I think a couple of weeks ago, we lose that game. Not today. We have a lot of confidence, and I think we played that way."

In an up-and-down, back-and-forth shootout, Benton (11-3) got it going early, plating four runs in the first and two more in the second to go up 6-0.

Savannah punched right back, scoring five runs in the third, sparked by a two-run RBI double from senior Zayden Snapp.

After Benton went down in order in the third, Savannah took its first lead with four more runs in the top of the fourth.

Leading 9-7 entering the fifth, the Savages went up 11-7, thanks to a two-run homer to left center by senior and starting pitcher Parker Brayley.

After spotting the Cardinals some early runs on the mound, Brayley settled in and lasted five innings, striking out four. He responded after a shaky start, which included three hit batters and a walk as well.

"I have a great group of guys behind me," Brayley said. "Benton is a great team. We came out here and battled and did the best we could to come back and get that 'W.'"

"To be able to get five innings out of (Brayley) was huge," Bodenhausen added. "I mean, that...helped us win the game. He decided to bear down and put the team on his back. That helped us a bunch. If we have to pull him in the third inning, I don't know what happens."

Benton didn't go away. The Cardinals tied the game at 11-11 in the bottom of the sixth, thanks to a two-run RBI double by senior Garret Farrell.

Savannah nabbed the lead back in the top of the seventh. Brayley, who scored a team-high three runs, hit a one-out triple to right. He then scored the winning run on a groundout sacrifice from Sutton Snipes.

The Savages closed it out behind a solid relief effort from freshman Mason Waitkoss, who struck out two batters over the last 1.2 innings to get the save.

He retired the Cardinals in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh.

Snipes went 3-for-5 at the plate for Savannah with two runs scored.&nbsp;Jackson Ledden went 2-for-4, while Kemper Williams scored two runs as a courtesy runner.

Benton's Carson Schmidt led the way at the plate, scoring three runs on a 4-of-5 hitting effort. Kanacsky, who struck out six in three innings on the hill, also went 2-for-4 with an RBI.

Carson Davis doubled, finishing with two RBIs and two runs scored.

Wednesday's game was the first look at what could end up being a lengthy, entertaining series between Benton and Savannah.

Both in Class 4 District 16, the two are scheduled to play twice more in the regular season. What's more, the two teams are competing in the WOW High School Wood Bat Tournament this Friday and Saturday.

Both teams will also be in the Pony Express tournament field the following week.

"They're going to compete every time we come out here," Brayley said of Benton. "But, getting that first win, I think, really sets the tone that we're here and we're ready to play."

Benton is home to LeBlond on Thursday. Savannah's next game is against Owensville in the Wood Bat tournament on Friday at 6:30 at Phil Welch Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712796349978.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Wyatt Jackson slides into home safely in the third inning of Wednesday's game against Benton at Hyde Park. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Wyatt Jackson slides into home safely in the third inning of Wednesday's game against Benton at Hyde Park. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSavannah dug itself an early six-run deficit after two innings, but got back in the game with five runs in the third.The Savages (11-2) took the lead with four runs in the fourth and scored the go-ahead run in the seventh to outlast Benton, 12-11, at Hyde Park in St. Joseph Wednesday."They kept playing and I'm proud of them," Savannah head coach Erich Bodenhausen said. "We talked after the game and I think a couple of weeks ago, we lose that game. Not today. We have a lot of confidence, and I think we played that way."In an up-and-down, back-and-forth shootout, Benton (11-3) got it going early, plating four runs in the first and two more in the second to go up 6-0.Savannah punched right back, scoring five runs in the third, sparked by a two-run RBI double from senior Zayden Snapp.After Benton went down in order in the third, Savannah took its first lead with four more runs in the top of the fourth.Leading 9-7 entering the fifth, the Savages went up 11-7, thanks to a two-run homer to left center by senior and starting pitcher Parker Brayley.After spotting the Cardinals some early runs on the mound, Brayley settled in and lasted five innings, striking out four. He responded after a shaky start, which included three hit batters and a walk as well."I have a great group of guys behind me," Brayley said. "Benton is a great team. We came out here and battled and did the best we could to come back and get that 'W.'""To be able to get five innings out of (Brayley) was huge," Bodenhausen added. "I mean, that...helped us win the game. He decided to bear down and put the team on his back. That helped us a bunch. If we have to pull him in the third inning, I don't know what happens."Benton didn't go away. The Cardinals tied the game at 11-11 in the bottom of the sixth, thanks to a two-run RBI double by senior Garret Farrell.Savannah nabbed the lead back in the top of the seventh. Brayley, who scored a team-high three runs, hit a one-out triple to right. He then scored the winning run on a groundout sacrifice from Sutton Snipes.The Savages closed it out behind a solid relief effort from freshman Mason Waitkoss, who struck out two batters over the last 1.2 innings to get the save.He retired the Cardinals in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh.Snipes went 3-for-5 at the plate for Savannah with two runs scored.&nbsp;Jackson Ledden went 2-for-4, while Kemper Williams scored two runs as a courtesy runner.Benton's Carson Schmidt led the way at the plate, scoring three runs on a 4-of-5 hitting effort. Kanacsky, who struck out six in three innings on the hill, also went 2-for-4 with an RBI.Carson Davis doubled, finishing with two RBIs and two runs scored.Wednesday's game was the first look at what could end up being a lengthy, entertaining series between Benton and Savannah.Both in Class 4 District 16, the two are scheduled to play twice more in the regular season. What's more, the two teams are competing in the WOW High School Wood Bat Tournament this Friday and Saturday.Both teams will also be in the Pony Express tournament field the following week."They're going to compete every time we come out here," Brayley said of Benton. "But, getting that first win, I think, really sets the tone that we're here and we're ready to play."Benton is home to LeBlond on Thursday. Savannah's next game is against Owensville in the Wood Bat tournament on Friday at 6:30 at Phil Welch Stadium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712799239220.jpeg" alt="Parker Brayley." />
 <figcaption>Parker Brayley.</figcaption>
 </figure>Photo album<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fstjoepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0qmzLkUxHQqgo1ueehJD8epsX8ivfMqghLoxKaDjgKfPHjHu9VTghYPWqrXvq5yd3l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="689" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah outlasts Benton in back-and-forth, high scoring affair Wednesday

DALLAS (AP) — Dallas police said Wednesday that Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice faces charges including aggravated assault after he and another speeding driver of a sports car caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">chain-reaction crash</a>&nbsp;on a Dallas highway.

Police said that arrest warrants have been issued for the 23-year-old for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury. Rice's attorney, state Sen. Royce West, said last week that Rice had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-dallas-lamborghini-d36bee33712ebb41c4b78f7c3b54b833">driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle</a>&nbsp;when the crash occurred.

Arrest warrants were also issued Theodore Knox, 21, who was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said. Police said that arrest warrants have been issued for Knox for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.

Police said that the passengers in two speeding sports cars who left the scene will not be charged. Police said that Rice and Knox were not currently in custody. West had no immediate comment on Rice's behalf, and it was not clear whether Knox had an attorney.

The crash involved the Lamborghini, a Corvette and four other vehicles and left four people with minor injuries, police have said. Police said the drivers of the Corvette and Lamborghini left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information.

Rice last week&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/doub11e_r/">posted to his Instagram Story</a>&nbsp;that he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-car-crash-dallas-bbc86e5cccc79d7bbce5103070995994">taking “full responsibility”</a>&nbsp;for his part in the wreck.

Aggravated assault, a second-degree felony, is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Collision involving bodily injury, a third-degree felony, is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and collision involving injury is punishable by up to five years in prison.

Police have said the drivers of the Corvette and Lamborghini were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing the chain collision.

Rice was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-corvette-lamborghini-crash-dallas-2f3ac72c23b1d9ca4860f8cacc8b173e">leasing the Lamborghini</a>&nbsp;from The Classic Lifestyle, said Kyle Coker, an attorney for the Dallas-based exotic car rental company. And West has said the Corvette belonged to Rice.

Rice was born in Philadelphia but grew up in the Fort Worth, Texas, suburb of North Richland Hills. He played college football at nearby Southern Methodist University, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put the wide receiver on the radar of NFL teams.

The Chiefs selected him in the second round of last year's draft, and he quickly became one of the only dependable options in their passing game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712789752508.png" alt="In this screen grab taken from dash camera video provided by Bill Nabors, two speeding sports cars, left and second from left, cause a chain-reaction crash on the North Central Expressway, in Dallas, Saturday, March 30, 2024. Dallas police said Wednesday, April 10, that Kansas City Chiefs' wide receiver Rashee Rice faces charges including aggravated assault after he and another speeding driver of a sports car caused a chain-reaction crash on a Dallas highway. (Bill Nabors via AP)" />
 <figcaption>In this screen grab taken from dash camera video provided by Bill Nabors, two speeding sports cars, left and second from left, cause a chain-reaction crash on the North Central Expressway, in Dallas, Saturday, March 30, 2024. Dallas police said Wednesday, April 10, that Kansas City Chiefs' wide receiver Rashee Rice faces charges including aggravated assault after he and another speeding driver of a sports car caused a chain-reaction crash on a Dallas highway. (Bill Nabors via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>DALLAS (AP) — Dallas police said Wednesday that Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice faces charges including aggravated assault after he and another speeding driver of a sports car caused a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-24b9e3281d0bca8c0c13a0cedda57b93">chain-reaction crash</a>&nbsp;on a Dallas highway.Police said that arrest warrants have been issued for the 23-year-old for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury. Rice's attorney, state Sen. Royce West, said last week that Rice had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-sports-car-crash-dallas-lamborghini-d36bee33712ebb41c4b78f7c3b54b833">driving a Lamborghini sport utility vehicle</a>&nbsp;when the crash occurred.Arrest warrants were also issued Theodore Knox, 21, who was driving the other speeding sports car, a Corvette, police said. Police said that arrest warrants have been issued for Knox for one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712017870514.png" alt="Rice-photo KC Chiefs" />
 <figcaption>Rice-photo KC Chiefs</figcaption>
 </figure>Police said that the passengers in two speeding sports cars who left the scene will not be charged. Police said that Rice and Knox were not currently in custody. West had no immediate comment on Rice's behalf, and it was not clear whether Knox had an attorney.The Chiefs had no immediate comment.The crash involved the Lamborghini, a Corvette and four other vehicles and left four people with minor injuries, police have said. Police said the drivers of the Corvette and Lamborghini left following the crash without determining whether anyone needed medical attention or providing their information.Rice last week&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/doub11e_r/">posted to his Instagram Story</a>&nbsp;that he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chiefs-kansas-city-rashee-rice-car-crash-dallas-bbc86e5cccc79d7bbce5103070995994">taking “full responsibility”</a>&nbsp;for his part in the wreck.Aggravated assault, a second-degree felony, is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Collision involving bodily injury, a third-degree felony, is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and collision involving injury is punishable by up to five years in prison.Police have said the drivers of the Corvette and Lamborghini were speeding in the far left lane when they lost control and the Lamborghini traveled onto the shoulder and hit the center median wall, causing the chain collision.Rice was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rashee-rice-corvette-lamborghini-crash-dallas-2f3ac72c23b1d9ca4860f8cacc8b173e">leasing the Lamborghini</a>&nbsp;from The Classic Lifestyle, said Kyle Coker, an attorney for the Dallas-based exotic car rental company. And West has said the Corvette belonged to Rice.Rice was born in Philadelphia but grew up in the Fort Worth, Texas, suburb of North Richland Hills. He played college football at nearby Southern Methodist University, where a breakout senior season in 2022 put the wide receiver on the radar of NFL teams.The Chiefs selected him in the second round of last year's draft, and he quickly became one of the only dependable options in their passing game.

Chiefs' Rice facing charges after high-speed crash in Dallas

A $20 million dollar St. Joseph <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6dab078f-64af-4da0-8d80-1cee6134e02b">School District Bond Issue</a> was heavily approved by voters last week.

It encompasses many different aspects, focusing on improvements to	 student safety and experience.

One of the biggest pieces of this bond deals with athletics. About $6.5 million will go toward new turf fields and running tracks at Benton, Central and Lafayette High Schools.

Shannon Notle, activities director for the school district, says this was a much needed upgrade for student competitors in the city, noting that teams and athletes travel to state-of-the-art facilities in Kansas City and other communities on a regular basis.

"There's a lot more out there that they see that we don't have here," Nolte told KFEQ Radio. "So, I think for our kids and students, it's a great thing. I'm glad our community was able to see that and vote that way so that our kids can have things that other students have in other areas."

Nolte says it'd be nice to have the fields done by the start of the next school year, but reiterates that it's not a guarantee.

"It might be better to wait and make sure we get things right and done correctly," he said. "Get the designs right. In some places, it'll be a tight fit. So, if we have to do some other things around the field to get it done right, I think we'd rather take our time and get it done right, versus rushing into it to get it done by August."

Turf fields will be more cost effective in the long run. District officials estimate it costs around $50,000 annually to maintain a grass field for competition and activities.

Nolte adds it'll be fun for athletes and teams once these projects are completed.

"What a fun experience it'll be at this time next (school) year when these things finally get done," he said, "and people say, 'Wow, there's some definite improvements going on.'"

"I'd like to thank the community for their support and their vote and we're going to now begin the work to get these things done."

The second biggest piece in the bond issue is $3.2 million, which is going towards fine arts upgrades across all schools in the district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712780069507.jpeg" alt="Benton, Central and Lafayette High School will all be getting new turf fields and running tracks, thanks to a newly passed bond issue from the St. Joseph School District. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Benton, Central and Lafayette High School will all be getting new turf fields and running tracks, thanks to a newly passed bond issue from the St. Joseph School District. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA $20 million dollar St. Joseph <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6dab078f-64af-4da0-8d80-1cee6134e02b">School District Bond Issue</a> was heavily approved by voters last week.It encompasses many different aspects, focusing on improvements to	 student safety and experience.One of the biggest pieces of this bond deals with athletics. About $6.5 million will go toward new turf fields and running tracks at Benton, Central and Lafayette High Schools.Shannon Notle, activities director for the school district, says this was a much needed upgrade for student competitors in the city, noting that teams and athletes travel to state-of-the-art facilities in Kansas City and other communities on a regular basis."There's a lot more out there that they see that we don't have here," Nolte told KFEQ Radio. "So, I think for our kids and students, it's a great thing. I'm glad our community was able to see that and vote that way so that our kids can have things that other students have in other areas."Nolte says it'd be nice to have the fields done by the start of the next school year, but reiterates that it's not a guarantee."It might be better to wait and make sure we get things right and done correctly," he said. "Get the designs right. In some places, it'll be a tight fit. So, if we have to do some other things around the field to get it done right, I think we'd rather take our time and get it done right, versus rushing into it to get it done by August."Turf fields will be more cost effective in the long run. District officials estimate it costs around $50,000 annually to maintain a grass field for competition and activities.Nolte adds it'll be fun for athletes and teams once these projects are completed."What a fun experience it'll be at this time next (school) year when these things finally get done," he said, "and people say, 'Wow, there's some definite improvements going on.'""I'd like to thank the community for their support and their vote and we're going to now begin the work to get these things done."The second biggest piece in the bond issue is $3.2 million, which is going towards fine arts upgrades across all schools in the district.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712780095800.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District athletics to get big boost from newly passed bond issue

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a game-ending single in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Houston Astros 4-3 on Tuesday night for their fifth consecutive victory.

Garrett Hampson began the Kansas City 10th on second as the automatic runner, replacing Vinnie Pasquantino. Hampson raced home when Perez led off the inning with a single to center against Wander Suero (0-1).

James McArthur (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings for the win.

Perez and Nelson Velázquez each had two hits for the Royals. Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each drove in a run.

The Royals take on the Astros again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712718313385.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez slides into third safely as he advances on a Nelson Velázquez double during a baseball game against the Houston Astros Tuesday, April 9, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez slides into third safely as he advances on a Nelson Velázquez double during a baseball game against the Houston Astros Tuesday, April 9, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a game-ending single in the 10th inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Houston Astros 4-3 on Tuesday night for their fifth consecutive victory.Garrett Hampson began the Kansas City 10th on second as the automatic runner, replacing Vinnie Pasquantino. Hampson raced home when Perez led off the inning with a single to center against Wander Suero (0-1).James McArthur (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings for the win.Perez and Nelson Velázquez each had two hits for the Royals. Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia each drove in a run.The Royals take on the Astros again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Salvador Perez leads Royals past Astros 4-3 for 5th straight win

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.

<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.

<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.

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