(AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first major league home run and Hunter Dozier followed with a drive into the bullpen, leading Brad Keller and the Kansas City Royals over the Detroit Tigers 3-1. 

Keller allowed five hits and two walks in six-plus scoreless innings. He’s won two of his last three outings after starting out 1-8. The Tigers scored in the ninth on Eric Haase’s sacrifice fly. Royals closer Scott Barlow walked Riley Greene, bringing the winning run to the plate, but he retired Willi Castro on the next pitch for his 11th save. 

Tigers starter Michael Pineda threw 65 pitches in his return from the injured list, giving up three runs and seven hits in five innings. He struck out three without a walk.

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

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first major league home run and Hunter Dozier followed with a drive into the bullpen, leading Brad Keller and the Kansas City Royals over the Detroit Tigers 3-1. Keller allowed five hits and two walks in six-plus scoreless innings. He’s won two of his last three outings after starting out 1-8. The Tigers scored in the ninth on Eric Haase’s sacrifice fly. Royals closer Scott Barlow walked Riley Greene, bringing the winning run to the plate, but he retired Willi Castro on the next pitch for his 11th save. Tigers starter Michael Pineda threw 65 pitches in his return from the injured list, giving up three runs and seven hits in five innings. He struck out three without a walk.The Royals take on the Tigers again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Pasquantino hits unusual 1st MLB homer, Royals beat Tigers

Kansas City Chiefs training camp is less than a month away, and St. Joseph is getting ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome Chiefs Kingdom to town for a 12th time.

Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says this year's training camp is the first fully normal camp since 2019, and he expects increased travel and commerce.

"I feel like there's going to be an influx of folks who are coming to town this year, so what does that mean?" Esely said. "It means increased room nights. It means increased folks in our restaurants and shopping establishments. With that, it's always good when those people can have extracurricular things to do related to camp, but elsewhere in town."

The training camp attendance record was broken in 2019 with 63,000 people attending in all.

As of now, this is the last year that the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph and Missouri Western for camp. Practices will begin on July 27 with the first practice open to fans on the 28th and Red Rally on the 29th. 

Esely says the three weeks of training camp always provides a unique opportunity for St. Joseph to showcase itself.

"We want to make sure we're promoting our city and things to do in our city," he said. "Also, promoting simplified things of, 'Hey, practice today. If you need more information, this is where you go,' because we will have an influx of folks that have either not been to St. Joseph that much or at all. So, it's a really good opportunity for our community."&nbsp;

Looking a bit further ahead, the NCAA <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4a11b8b7-11f7-4d11-aefa-fb89acdb82f5">Division II women's basketball Elite Eight</a> comes to Civic Arena this coming March for the fifth time ever and for the first time since 2011. Esely, who’s also the Elite Eight tournament director, says getting the arena ready to host is critical.

"These teams, some of them have been to the Elite Eight before and some of which have never been to the Elite Eight," Esely said. "They have worked hard all year to get to that point. That's what teams are working toward - to get to the Elite Eight and play for a national championship and you want to be sure that environment is lively."

Just this month, St. Joseph city council approved the purchase of new LED scorers' tables for Civic Arena, which will host the Elite Eight again in 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025.

Of course in 2026, Kansas City will be a host city for the FIFA World Cup, attracting thousands of new people to the city and region. Esely says the city and Missouri Western State University could have a unique role when the World Cup rolls around.

"There's going to be a lot of communities in the sites of the games or in the surrounding communities of the sites of the games that are going to serve as hubs for countries competing in the World Cup," Esely said. "The folks from FIFA came and did a site visit at Missouri Western."

The World Cup is estimated to generate around $695 million of economic activity in the state of Missouri. The 2018 World Cup drew about 364 billion views over the nearly month-long event.

Needless to say, St. Joseph has some big things coming its way soon, and Esely says there’s always looking for more.

"We're always looking at what's next," he pointed out. "So, we're excited to host these events. But, we don't want these events to be the only events. We want to be in a regular cycle every year and to do that, we just have to do some things better than other communities do and I'm confident we'll do that."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627498009034.jpeg" alt="Fans watch training camp on a berm behind the end zone at the Mosaic Training Fields in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Fans watch training camp on a berm behind the end zone at the Mosaic Training Fields in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKansas City Chiefs training camp is less than a month away, and St. Joseph is getting ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome Chiefs Kingdom to town for a 12th time.Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says this year's training camp is the first fully normal camp since 2019, and he expects increased travel and commerce."I feel like there's going to be an influx of folks who are coming to town this year, so what does that mean?" Esely said. "It means increased room nights. It means increased folks in our restaurants and shopping establishments. With that, it's always good when those people can have extracurricular things to do related to camp, but elsewhere in town."The training camp attendance record was broken in 2019 with 63,000 people attending in all.As of now, this is the last year that the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph and Missouri Western for camp. Practices will begin on July 27 with the first practice open to fans on the 28th and Red Rally on the 29th. Esely says the three weeks of training camp always provides a unique opportunity for St. Joseph to showcase itself."We want to make sure we're promoting our city and things to do in our city," he said. "Also, promoting simplified things of, 'Hey, practice today. If you need more information, this is where you go,' because we will have an influx of folks that have either not been to St. Joseph that much or at all. So, it's a really good opportunity for our community."&nbsp;Looking a bit further ahead, the NCAA <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4a11b8b7-11f7-4d11-aefa-fb89acdb82f5">Division II women's basketball Elite Eight</a> comes to Civic Arena this coming March for the fifth time ever and for the first time since 2011. Esely, who’s also the Elite Eight tournament director, says getting the arena ready to host is critical."These teams, some of them have been to the Elite Eight before and some of which have never been to the Elite Eight," Esely said. "They have worked hard all year to get to that point. That's what teams are working toward - to get to the Elite Eight and play for a national championship and you want to be sure that environment is lively."Just this month, St. Joseph city council approved the purchase of new LED scorers' tables for Civic Arena, which will host the Elite Eight again in 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025.Of course in 2026, Kansas City will be a host city for the FIFA World Cup, attracting thousands of new people to the city and region. Esely says the city and Missouri Western State University could have a unique role when the World Cup rolls around."There's going to be a lot of communities in the sites of the games or in the surrounding communities of the sites of the games that are going to serve as hubs for countries competing in the World Cup," Esely said. "The folks from FIFA came and did a site visit at Missouri Western."The World Cup is estimated to generate around $695 million of economic activity in the state of Missouri. The 2018 World Cup drew about 364 billion views over the nearly month-long event.Needless to say, St. Joseph has some big things coming its way soon, and Esely says there’s always looking for more."We're always looking at what's next," he pointed out. "So, we're excited to host these events. But, we don't want these events to be the only events. We want to be in a regular cycle every year and to do that, we just have to do some things better than other communities do and I'm confident we'll do that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646198539031.jpeg" alt="Stanberry students and fans celebrate during a boys' basketball sectional win over Mound City at Civic Arena in St. Joseph in early 2022. Civic Arena is set to host the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament in 2023 and 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stanberry students and fans celebrate during a boys' basketball sectional win over Mound City at Civic Arena in St. Joseph in early 2022. Civic Arena is set to host the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament in 2023 and 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs camp, Elite Eight, World Cup - St. Joseph ready to host fans from near and far

(AP) — Zach Greinke allowed just one run on four hits, helping the Kansas City Royals avoid a three-game sweep by beating the Texas Rangers 2-1. 

Kansas City’s Kyle Isbel provided the winning cushion with his second home run in as many games. Greinke (2-4) made his 500th career start, becoming the 48th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to do so and the only active pitcher to reach that milestone. He went six innings, striking out three and walking one. 

Scott Barlow picked up his 10th save in 12 chances with a perfect ninth inning. Texas’ Dane Dunning suffered his first loss when allowing fewer than three runs this season. He gave up six hits in six innings, walking three and striking out three.

The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Zach Greinke allowed just one run on four hits, helping the Kansas City Royals avoid a three-game sweep by beating the Texas Rangers 2-1. Kansas City’s Kyle Isbel provided the winning cushion with his second home run in as many games. Greinke (2-4) made his 500th career start, becoming the 48th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to do so and the only active pitcher to reach that milestone. He went six innings, striking out three and walking one. Scott Barlow picked up his 10th save in 12 chances with a perfect ninth inning. Texas’ Dane Dunning suffered his first loss when allowing fewer than three runs this season. He gave up six hits in six innings, walking three and striking out three.The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Greinke sharp in 500th career start, Royals beat Rangers 2-1

(AP) — Marcus Semien homered and drove in four runs, Jon Gray pitched seven effective innings and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 8-3. 

Corey Seager hit a two-run double as the Rangers handed last-place Kansas City its fourth consecutive defeat. They’ve outscored the Royals 18-7 in the first two games of the series. Semien had three hits and scored three times. His three-run homer off starter Jonathan Heasley made it 4-0 in the third. 

Gray matched his longest outing of the season. He allowed one run and five hits with two walks and eight strikeouts. Touted prospect Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 4 in his major league debut for the Royals.

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

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Marcus Semien homered and drove in four runs, Jon Gray pitched seven effective innings and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 8-3. Corey Seager hit a two-run double as the Rangers handed last-place Kansas City its fourth consecutive defeat. They’ve outscored the Royals 18-7 in the first two games of the series. Semien had three hits and scored three times. His three-run homer off starter Jonathan Heasley made it 4-0 in the third. Gray matched his longest outing of the season. He allowed one run and five hits with two walks and eight strikeouts. Touted prospect Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 4 in his major league debut for the Royals.The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Semien, Gray lead Rangers to 8-3 win over struggling Royals

IRVING, Texas – Brett Yormark has been named the Big 12 Conference’s fifth Commissioner, as announced Wednesday by the league’s Board of Directors, according to a statement from the conference.

Yormark succeeds Bob Bowlsby, who announced in April he was stepping away from the Commissioner’s chair after a decade with the Big 12. KEY COMMENTS

NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver: “Brett is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable executives in sports and entertainment,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.&nbsp; “His decades of operational experience, relentless work ethic and strong industry relationships will be of enormous value to the Big 12, its schools and fans.” Fox Sports CEO and Executive Producer, Eric Shanks: “On behalf of FOX Sports, we’d like to officially congratulate Brett Yormark on being named the new Commissioner of the Big 12,” said Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports. “Brett is a talented and innovative executive who brings a remarkably unique perspective to the position. Under his leadership and vision, the conference is set up for success, and we look forward to continuing to build on our relationship as a premier partner of the Big 12.” Texas Tech University President and Big 12 Conference Board Chair, Lawrence Schovanec: “In Brett Yormark, we have chosen a highly adaptable leader who thrives in dynamic times. The landscape of college athletics is evolving to look more like the world Brett has been leading,” said Lawrence Schovanec, President of Texas Tech University and Chair of the Big 12 Conference Board of Directors. “He’s authentic and genuine in the way he builds relationships and partnerships, and he works relentlessly to deliver impact. As Brett immerses himself in college sports and connects with all our stakeholders, he will bring a fresh approach and dynamic energy to the Big 12 as we engage a new generation of student-athletes and fans.” “I want to thank my fellow board members and our partners at TurnkeyZRG. Turnkey is more than just a search firm; they orchestrated a flawless strategy and process, delivering strong interest and strong candidates from college and professional sports, as well as the media and entertainment industries,” added Schovanec. New Big 12 Conference Commissioner, Brett Yormark: “Thank you to the Big 12 Board, the ADs, the student-athletes, the whole Conference for giving me a chance to support what they all do,” said new Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “I’m here to listen, learn, find ways to add value, add resources and try to help shine a light on the importance of college athletics. I look forward to leveraging my experience and network alongside our presidents, chancellors and athletic directors to shape the future of the Big 12 brand and emphasize our collective strengths.”&nbsp; Yormark joins the Big 12 from Roc Nation, where he served as chief operating officer and co-CEO of Roc Nation Unified, the commercial side of the business. Yormark, a graduate of Indiana University, began his sports career in 1988, working in the ticket office for the New Jersey Nets and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of the industry when he was named CEO. From 2005-19, as CEO of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center, he oversaw their move from New Jersey to Brooklyn, building the first new arena in New York City in 60 years and re-launching the Nets organization and brand in Brooklyn. Barclays Center soon became a college basketball destination, attracting the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the Atlantic 10 Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament. Prior to joining the Nets, Yormark served as vice president of corporate sponsorships for NASCAR, where he oversaw a $750 million partnership agreement, the largest in history at that time, that gave Nextel Communications the naming rights to its premier racing series. Yormark is recognized for his creative business approaches and has been named to&nbsp;Crain’s “40 Under 40” list twice and the “Forty Under 40” three times by the&nbsp;Sports Business Journal. Under Yormark’s leadership, the Barclays Center became one of the top 10 entertainment venues worldwide for ticket sales. Yormark has two children and is married to Elaina Scotto. The Big 12 Commissioner search was led by the conference’s Executive Committee, which includes Schovanec, Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone and Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, with the assistance of national search firm TurnkeyZRG. The Big 12’s Board of Directors, comprised of the presidents and chancellors of the ten current Big 12 members, participated in the Commissioner interview process, along with the four new members of the conference who will enter the Big 12 in 2023. The Big 12’s current membership made the final selection of the Commissioner. Yormark’s official start date with the Big 12 is anticipated to be August 1. His initial contract term is five years. As announced in April, Bowlsby will transition to a new interim role with the Conference, subject to the mutual agreement of the new Commissioner and Bowlsby. The current Big 12 membership includes Baylor University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Texas and West Virginia University. Entering Big 12 membership in the Summer of 2023 will be Brigham Young University, University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati and University of Houston.&nbsp; Over the past decade, the Big 12 has won 32 team national championships. In 2021-22, the Big 12 captured 8 team national titles, including NCAA men’s basketball for the second consecutive season (Baylor and Kansas). Big 12 teams have played in the last four men’s Final Fours. In football, the Big 12 has placed teams in the College Football Playoff New Year’s Bowls throughout its eight-year history. The Big 12 is the home of two of the last five Heisman Trophy winners and was the only Conference to place a team in the Final Four and CFP semi-finals in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656517373265.png" alt="Brett Yormark -image courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Brett Yormark -image courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>IRVING, Texas – Brett Yormark has been named the Big 12 Conference’s fifth Commissioner, as announced Wednesday by the league’s Board of Directors, according to a statement from the conference.Yormark succeeds Bob Bowlsby, who announced in April he was stepping away from the Commissioner’s chair after a decade with the Big 12. KEY COMMENTS<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Welcome to the Big 12 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KState?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KState</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/KSTATEADGT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KSTATEADGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/P9rSqXEeyY">pic.twitter.com/P9rSqXEeyY</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1542171076842717187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver: “Brett is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable executives in sports and entertainment,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.&nbsp; “His decades of operational experience, relentless work ethic and strong industry relationships will be of enormous value to the Big 12, its schools and fans.” Fox Sports CEO and Executive Producer, Eric Shanks: “On behalf of FOX Sports, we’d like to officially congratulate Brett Yormark on being named the new Commissioner of the Big 12,” said Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports. “Brett is a talented and innovative executive who brings a remarkably unique perspective to the position. Under his leadership and vision, the conference is set up for success, and we look forward to continuing to build on our relationship as a premier partner of the Big 12.” Texas Tech University President and Big 12 Conference Board Chair, Lawrence Schovanec: “In Brett Yormark, we have chosen a highly adaptable leader who thrives in dynamic times. The landscape of college athletics is evolving to look more like the world Brett has been leading,” said Lawrence Schovanec, President of Texas Tech University and Chair of the Big 12 Conference Board of Directors. “He’s authentic and genuine in the way he builds relationships and partnerships, and he works relentlessly to deliver impact. As Brett immerses himself in college sports and connects with all our stakeholders, he will bring a fresh approach and dynamic energy to the Big 12 as we engage a new generation of student-athletes and fans.” “I want to thank my fellow board members and our partners at TurnkeyZRG. Turnkey is more than just a search firm; they orchestrated a flawless strategy and process, delivering strong interest and strong candidates from college and professional sports, as well as the media and entertainment industries,” added Schovanec. New Big 12 Conference Commissioner, Brett Yormark: “Thank you to the Big 12 Board, the ADs, the student-athletes, the whole Conference for giving me a chance to support what they all do,” said new Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “I’m here to listen, learn, find ways to add value, add resources and try to help shine a light on the importance of college athletics. I look forward to leveraging my experience and network alongside our presidents, chancellors and athletic directors to shape the future of the Big 12 brand and emphasize our collective strengths.”&nbsp; Yormark joins the Big 12 from Roc Nation, where he served as chief operating officer and co-CEO of Roc Nation Unified, the commercial side of the business. Yormark, a graduate of Indiana University, began his sports career in 1988, working in the ticket office for the New Jersey Nets and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of the industry when he was named CEO. From 2005-19, as CEO of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center, he oversaw their move from New Jersey to Brooklyn, building the first new arena in New York City in 60 years and re-launching the Nets organization and brand in Brooklyn. Barclays Center soon became a college basketball destination, attracting the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the Atlantic 10 Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament. Prior to joining the Nets, Yormark served as vice president of corporate sponsorships for NASCAR, where he oversaw a $750 million partnership agreement, the largest in history at that time, that gave Nextel Communications the naming rights to its premier racing series. Yormark is recognized for his creative business approaches and has been named to&nbsp;Crain’s “40 Under 40” list twice and the “Forty Under 40” three times by the&nbsp;Sports Business Journal. Under Yormark’s leadership, the Barclays Center became one of the top 10 entertainment venues worldwide for ticket sales. Yormark has two children and is married to Elaina Scotto. The Big 12 Commissioner search was led by the conference’s Executive Committee, which includes Schovanec, Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone and Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, with the assistance of national search firm TurnkeyZRG. The Big 12’s Board of Directors, comprised of the presidents and chancellors of the ten current Big 12 members, participated in the Commissioner interview process, along with the four new members of the conference who will enter the Big 12 in 2023. The Big 12’s current membership made the final selection of the Commissioner. Yormark’s official start date with the Big 12 is anticipated to be August 1. His initial contract term is five years. As announced in April, Bowlsby will transition to a new interim role with the Conference, subject to the mutual agreement of the new Commissioner and Bowlsby. The current Big 12 membership includes Baylor University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Texas and West Virginia University. Entering Big 12 membership in the Summer of 2023 will be Brigham Young University, University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati and University of Houston.&nbsp; Over the past decade, the Big 12 has won 32 team national championships. In 2021-22, the Big 12 captured 8 team national titles, including NCAA men’s basketball for the second consecutive season (Baylor and Kansas). Big 12 teams have played in the last four men’s Final Fours. In football, the Big 12 has placed teams in the College Football Playoff New Year’s Bowls throughout its eight-year history. The Big 12 is the home of two of the last five Heisman Trophy winners and was the only Conference to place a team in the Final Four and CFP semi-finals in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

Big 12 Conference names new commissioner

The St. Joseph Mustangs overcame a 5-0 deficit, scoring four runs in the bottom of the ninth and beating Jefferson City in walk-off fashion 6-5 Tuesday at Phil Welch Stadium.

Tyler Petrosino hit the go-ahead RBI single to center with two on and two out in the ninth, scoring Ryan Koski and Jaxon Himel for the winning runs.

Petrosino went 3-for-4 with two RBIs. Michael Paule was 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored. The Mustangs’ record improves to 17-8, and they’ve now won eight of their last 10 games.

St. Joseph is off Wednesday, but stays home Thursday to host North Kansas City. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs overcame a 5-0 deficit, scoring four runs in the bottom of the ninth and beating Jefferson City in walk-off fashion 6-5 Tuesday at Phil Welch Stadium.Tyler Petrosino hit the go-ahead RBI single to center with two on and two out in the ninth, scoring Ryan Koski and Jaxon Himel for the winning runs.Petrosino went 3-for-4 with two RBIs. Michael Paule was 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored. The Mustangs’ record improves to 17-8, and they’ve now won eight of their last 10 games.St. Joseph is off Wednesday, but stays home Thursday to host North Kansas City. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs rally, walk off against Jefferson City Tuesday

(AP) — Mitch Garver and Kole Calhoun each had two hits, two runs and two RBIs, leading the Texas Rangers to a 10-4 win over the Kansas City Royals. 

Garver’s two RBIs came on his eighth homer of the season in the fifth inning. 

Martin Perez was shaky early but settled in, allowing four runs on seven hits in the win. He walked two and struck out six. Kris Bubic (1-5) took the loss. He allowed seven runs, five earned, in 4 2/3 innings.

The Royals take on the Rangers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Mitch Garver and Kole Calhoun each had two hits, two runs and two RBIs, leading the Texas Rangers to a 10-4 win over the Kansas City Royals. Garver’s two RBIs came on his eighth homer of the season in the fifth inning. Martin Perez was shaky early but settled in, allowing four runs on seven hits in the win. He walked two and struck out six. Kris Bubic (1-5) took the loss. He allowed seven runs, five earned, in 4 2/3 innings.The Royals take on the Rangers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Garver, Calhoun power Rangers to 10-4 win over Royals

The St. Joseph Mustangs used a four-run seventh inning to take their first lead and fended off a late charge from the Clarinda A’s to hang on for a 5-4 victory at Phil Welch Stadium Monday.

The Mustangs were held without a run in the first five innings and got down 2-0 in the top of the first. Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a run scored and a double.

Reliever Jack Wells was the winning pitcher, striking out two in middle relief. Despite giving up two earned runs, Wyatt Hardy got the save in the ninth.

The Mustangs stay home to face Jefferson City in a makeup game Tuesday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. St. Joseph lost to the Renegades on the road Sunday, 4-2.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs used a four-run seventh inning to take their first lead and fended off a late charge from the Clarinda A’s to hang on for a 5-4 victory at Phil Welch Stadium Monday.The Mustangs were held without a run in the first five innings and got down 2-0 in the top of the first. Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden led the way at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a run scored and a double.Reliever Jack Wells was the winning pitcher, striking out two in middle relief. Despite giving up two earned runs, Wyatt Hardy got the save in the ninth.The Mustangs stay home to face Jefferson City in a makeup game Tuesday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. St. Joseph lost to the Renegades on the road Sunday, 4-2.

Mustangs score four runs in the seventh, fend off Clarinda late in Monday victory

A number of St. Joseph Mustangs fans will attend Tuesday's makeup game against Jefferson City. &nbsp;

An anonymous donor purchased 1,000 free tickets to be given away by the St. Joseph Mustangs.

Mustangs Owner Ky Turner says he was taken aback by the large donation.&nbsp;

"It was a nice surprise and that's just why I tell people all the time St. Joe is such a great community and people have just got to sometimes look around and see some of the nice things that we have here, the great people that make up this community," Turner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, it was a pleasant surprise and I think it's just reflective of where we're at here."&nbsp;

The game Tuesday is a makeup of the Mustangs June 11th contest against the Renegades which got rained out. First pitch is at 7pm and gates open at 5:30.&nbsp;

Turner says he always tells people that on the other side of the rain, there's a little bit of a rainbow. &nbsp;

"Someone just saw an opportunity and wanted to do something nice in general and they identified that date," Turner explains.&nbsp;

Turner says it's funny sometimes how things work out.&nbsp;

"That's what has happened tomorrow night, originally we weren't supposed to be playing tomorrow night and this worked out perfect with the anonymous donor and it's just something that's part of the St. Joe community and the Mustangs experience."&nbsp;

The tickets got claimed quickly after the Mustangs announced they were available last week, which Turner says blew him away.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"Yeah, I mean it went fast the response was insane," Turner says. "I was taken aback by the initial donation but then for it to be claimed as quick as it was it speaks to how special of a community this is on the fact that A someone wanted to do that and then B the response like that was just, it was great."&nbsp;

Turner says the front office also kicked in some free tickets, so more than a thousand were given away.&nbsp;

The Mustangs are 15-8 on the season as of Monday and host Clarinda on Monday night at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656356664377.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A number of St. Joseph Mustangs fans will attend Tuesday's makeup game against Jefferson City. &nbsp;An anonymous donor purchased 1,000 free tickets to be given away by the St. Joseph Mustangs.Mustangs Owner Ky Turner says he was taken aback by the large donation.&nbsp;"It was a nice surprise and that's just why I tell people all the time St. Joe is such a great community and people have just got to sometimes look around and see some of the nice things that we have here, the great people that make up this community," Turner tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And so, it was a pleasant surprise and I think it's just reflective of where we're at here."&nbsp;The game Tuesday is a makeup of the Mustangs June 11th contest against the Renegades which got rained out. First pitch is at 7pm and gates open at 5:30.&nbsp;Turner says he always tells people that on the other side of the rain, there's a little bit of a rainbow. &nbsp;"Someone just saw an opportunity and wanted to do something nice in general and they identified that date," Turner explains.&nbsp;Turner says it's funny sometimes how things work out.&nbsp;"That's what has happened tomorrow night, originally we weren't supposed to be playing tomorrow night and this worked out perfect with the anonymous donor and it's just something that's part of the St. Joe community and the Mustangs experience."&nbsp;The tickets got claimed quickly after the Mustangs announced they were available last week, which Turner says blew him away.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yeah, I mean it went fast the response was insane," Turner says. "I was taken aback by the initial donation but then for it to be claimed as quick as it was it speaks to how special of a community this is on the fact that A someone wanted to do that and then B the response like that was just, it was great."&nbsp;Turner says the front office also kicked in some free tickets, so more than a thousand were given away.&nbsp;The Mustangs are 15-8 on the season as of Monday and host Clarinda on Monday night at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

Anonymous donor gives away 1000 free tickets to Tuesday Mustangs game

The Kansas City Royals announced Monday that they have acquired right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Wyatt Mills&nbsp;and&nbsp;William Fleming&nbsp;from Seattle for first baseman&nbsp;Carlos Santana&nbsp;and cash considerations.

Mills, who is on the 40-man roster, will be optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Fleming will be assigned to High-A Quad Cities.

Additionally, first baseman&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;has been selected from Triple-A Omaha. In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ronald Bolaños&nbsp;has been designated for assignment.

The 27-year-old Mills made his Major League debut with 11 appearances in relief for Seattle last season. He’s made eight appearances with the Mariners this season, posting a 4.15 ERA and .179 opponents’ average.

The 23-year-old Fleming was selected by Seattle in the 11th&nbsp;round in the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of Wake Forest.

He made his professional debut last season and went 4-1 with a 3.27 ERA with 27 strikeouts and only four walks in nine appearances between the Arizona Complex League and Low-A Modesto. In 14 starts this season with Low-A Modesto, he’s 6-6 with a 4.92 ERA, but he’s allowed just two earned runs or fewer in 10 of his 14 starts.

Santana signed a two-year contract with Kansas City before the 2021 season. He hit 19 home runs in 158 games with the Royals last year and has four HR in 52 games with the Royals this season, with 36 walks and 28 strikeouts. In 17 games this month, he’s hit .357 with 11 RBI, and his .478 on-base percentage in June ranks second in the Majors.

Pasquantino hit .280 with Triple-A Omaha, recording 18 home runs. He has 67 RBIs in 69 games, which rank 2nd among all professional players. 

Pasquantino was selected by Kansas City in the 11th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of Old Dominion.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656355081100.jpeg" alt="Via MLB.com." />
 <figcaption>Via MLB.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals announced Monday that they have acquired right-handed pitchers&nbsp;Wyatt Mills&nbsp;and&nbsp;William Fleming&nbsp;from Seattle for first baseman&nbsp;Carlos Santana&nbsp;and cash considerations.Mills, who is on the 40-man roster, will be optioned to Triple-A Omaha. Fleming will be assigned to High-A Quad Cities.Additionally, first baseman&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;has been selected from Triple-A Omaha. In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher&nbsp;Ronald Bolaños&nbsp;has been designated for assignment.The 27-year-old Mills made his Major League debut with 11 appearances in relief for Seattle last season. He’s made eight appearances with the Mariners this season, posting a 4.15 ERA and .179 opponents’ average.The 23-year-old Fleming was selected by Seattle in the 11th&nbsp;round in the 2021 First-Year Player Draft out of Wake Forest.He made his professional debut last season and went 4-1 with a 3.27 ERA with 27 strikeouts and only four walks in nine appearances between the Arizona Complex League and Low-A Modesto. In 14 starts this season with Low-A Modesto, he’s 6-6 with a 4.92 ERA, but he’s allowed just two earned runs or fewer in 10 of his 14 starts.Santana signed a two-year contract with Kansas City before the 2021 season. He hit 19 home runs in 158 games with the Royals last year and has four HR in 52 games with the Royals this season, with 36 walks and 28 strikeouts. In 17 games this month, he’s hit .357 with 11 RBI, and his .478 on-base percentage in June ranks second in the Majors.Pasquantino hit .280 with Triple-A Omaha, recording 18 home runs. He has 67 RBIs in 69 games, which rank 2nd among all professional players. Pasquantino was selected by Kansas City in the 11th&nbsp;round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of Old Dominion.&nbsp;

Royals trade Santana to Seattle for pitching prospects, Pasquantino acquired from Omaha

St. Joseph Central announced the hiring of a new head volleyball coach earlier this month.

Northwest Missouri State alum and former Maryville head coach Miranda Mizera will lead the Indians as head coach starting this fall.

 Mizera says the way her team has gotten along in these early days of her coaching has been perhaps the most exciting thing.

"The way that the girls get along, it's very special," Mizera said in an interview with St. Joseph Post. "That was something that took time when I was coaching at Maryville. It took time just to create that bond and that trust between players. It seems like coming into Central, that culture has already been built in, which is really, really awesome."

Mizera takes over for Monica Flaska, who coached Central for the last three years. Mizera, who graduated from Northwest in 2017, coached Maryville from 2019-2020, winning two district titles and a state championship in the 2020 season.

Mizera, originally from San Antonio, Texas, moved with her family to Colorado. She became a star high school volleyball player there, and was being recruited by Northwest Missouri State.

At the time, Mizera had no idea where Maryville was, but she signed to become a Bearcat and was a three-time second-team all-MIAA performer as an outside hitter.

After one year of being on the Northwest coaching staff, she led Maryville's team for two seasons, winning two district titles and a state title. She's hopeful her knowledge of volleyball in northwest Missouri will help her transition smoothly into this new position.

"I think that'll be a huge factor," she said. "Just being able to have some familiarity with the area, and kind of know some of these faces outside of high school ball as well."&nbsp;

Mizera, who was approved by the St. Joseph School board earlier this month, says becoming the head coach of a Class 5 program is an exciting and challenging step forward.

"Class 5 all across the board is really competitive," she remarked. "So, I'm looking forward to seeing how the girls work together and compete."

Mizera is hopeful to bring Central volleyball to historic new heights, as the program has never won a state or district title. The way to do that, she says, is not by looking ahead, but by getting better each day.

"That's how I always prep myself," Mizera said. "Just stay with the mindset of one day at a time, one practice at a time. Obviously, we want to do our best to improve upon last year's record. I would say that's the micro goal, but then, yeah. Obviously go as far as we can."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656102476277.jpeg" alt="Miranda Mizera has been hired by St. Joseph Central as the next head coach of the volleyball team. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Miranda Mizera has been hired by St. Joseph Central as the next head coach of the volleyball team. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Central announced the hiring of a new head volleyball coach earlier this month.Northwest Missouri State alum and former Maryville head coach Miranda Mizera will lead the Indians as head coach starting this fall. Mizera says the way her team has gotten along in these early days of her coaching has been perhaps the most exciting thing."The way that the girls get along, it's very special," Mizera said in an interview with St. Joseph Post. "That was something that took time when I was coaching at Maryville. It took time just to create that bond and that trust between players. It seems like coming into Central, that culture has already been built in, which is really, really awesome."Mizera takes over for Monica Flaska, who coached Central for the last three years. Mizera, who graduated from Northwest in 2017, coached Maryville from 2019-2020, winning two district titles and a state championship in the 2020 season.Mizera, originally from San Antonio, Texas, moved with her family to Colorado. She became a star high school volleyball player there, and was being recruited by Northwest Missouri State.At the time, Mizera had no idea where Maryville was, but she signed to become a Bearcat and was a three-time second-team all-MIAA performer as an outside hitter.After one year of being on the Northwest coaching staff, she led Maryville's team for two seasons, winning two district titles and a state title. She's hopeful her knowledge of volleyball in northwest Missouri will help her transition smoothly into this new position."I think that'll be a huge factor," she said. "Just being able to have some familiarity with the area, and kind of know some of these faces outside of high school ball as well."&nbsp;Mizera, who was approved by the St. Joseph School board earlier this month, says becoming the head coach of a Class 5 program is an exciting and challenging step forward."Class 5 all across the board is really competitive," she remarked. "So, I'm looking forward to seeing how the girls work together and compete."Mizera is hopeful to bring Central volleyball to historic new heights, as the program has never won a state or district title. The way to do that, she says, is not by looking ahead, but by getting better each day."That's how I always prep myself," Mizera said. "Just stay with the mindset of one day at a time, one practice at a time. Obviously, we want to do our best to improve upon last year's record. I would say that's the micro goal, but then, yeah. Obviously go as far as we can."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Central-head-volleyball-coach-Miranda-Mizera-e1kdct9" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Miranda Mizera looks to bring winning pedigree to Central volleyball

(AP) — Tony Kemp hit a two-run homer, Seth Brown and Sean Murphy combined for four RBIs, and the Oakland Athletics beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7. 

Kemp hit his second home run of the season in the eighth inning to wrap up a 3-for-5 afternoon. Brown hit a single in the first and a fielder’s choice in the third. Murphy had an RBI single in the seventh. Nick Allen and Jonah Bride collected RBIs during a two-run fourth inning. 

The A’s tied a season high with 14 hits. Oakland had the leadoff man reach base in six innings. Four of the six were leadoff doubles, and all came around to score.

The Royals take on Oakland again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage starts at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Tony Kemp hit a two-run homer, Seth Brown and Sean Murphy combined for four RBIs, and the Oakland Athletics beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7. Kemp hit his second home run of the season in the eighth inning to wrap up a 3-for-5 afternoon. Brown hit a single in the first and a fielder’s choice in the third. Murphy had an RBI single in the seventh. Nick Allen and Jonah Bride collected RBIs during a two-run fourth inning. The A’s tied a season high with 14 hits. Oakland had the leadoff man reach base in six innings. Four of the six were leadoff doubles, and all came around to score.The Royals take on Oakland again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage starts at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Kemp, Brown, Murphy lead A's over Royals in 9-7 win

(AP) — Zack Greinke tossed six innings of one-run ball, Edward Olivares hit two solo homers and the Kansas City Royals beat the Oakland Athletics 3-1. 

Both Grienke (1-4) and Olivares were activated from rehab assignments Friday. Olivares belted homers to left field in his first at-bats — in the third and fifth innings — for his first career multi-homer game. Greinke allowed one run on three hits with four strikeouts for his first win in his second stint with Kansas City. 

Seth Brown collected the lone RBI for Oakland. Scott Barlow earned his ninth save of the season.

The Royals take on Oakland again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage starts at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Zack Greinke tossed six innings of one-run ball, Edward Olivares hit two solo homers and the Kansas City Royals beat the Oakland Athletics 3-1. Both Grienke (1-4) and Olivares were activated from rehab assignments Friday. Olivares belted homers to left field in his first at-bats — in the third and fifth innings — for his first career multi-homer game. Greinke allowed one run on three hits with four strikeouts for his first win in his second stint with Kansas City. Seth Brown collected the lone RBI for Oakland. Scott Barlow earned his ninth save of the season.The Royals take on Oakland again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage starts at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Greinke, Olivares return, power Royals to 3-1 win over A's

(AP) — Shohei Ohtani struck out a career-high 13 over eight dominant innings of two-hit ball, and the AL MVP also reached base three times in the Los Angeles Angels’ 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. 

After giving up two singles to start the first, Ohtani retired 16 straight Royals and 23 of the final 24 batters he faced, allowing just one baserunner over his final seven innings on a walk that was quickly erased by a double play. 

With the backdrop of a rare Southern California lightning storm illuminating the sky far beyond center field, Ohtani also had a single and two walks at the plate in his latest electrifying two-way performance.

The Royals take on Oakland Friday night (July 24)) with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Shohei Ohtani struck out a career-high 13 over eight dominant innings of two-hit ball, and the AL MVP also reached base three times in the Los Angeles Angels’ 5-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. After giving up two singles to start the first, Ohtani retired 16 straight Royals and 23 of the final 24 batters he faced, allowing just one baserunner over his final seven innings on a walk that was quickly erased by a double play. With the backdrop of a rare Southern California lightning storm illuminating the sky far beyond center field, Ohtani also had a single and two walks at the plate in his latest electrifying two-way performance.The Royals take on Oakland Friday night (July 24)) with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Ohtani strikes out career-high 13 in Angels' 5-0 win over KC

The Houston Rockets have signed former Northwest Missouri State guard and two-time Division II Player of the Year Trevor Hudgins to a two-way contract.

The news came late Thursday night following the conclusion of the NBA Draft. A two-way contract&nbsp;pays a player dependent on the league in which they are playing - either the NBA or the G-League.

Hudgins, the first Northwest player to ever sign an NBA contract, averaged 23.0 points, 4.3 assists and 1.5 steals as a senior. He shot 48.2% from the field, 41.5% from three-point range and 90.1% from the foul line this past season as well.

He was named Most Outstanding Player in the Division II NCAA Tournament in 2019 and 2022, and won three national titles with the Bearcats.

Hudgins had one year of eligibility remaining, but chose to forego it and enter the draft. ESPN ranks Hudgins 33rd on its list of best undrafted players.

He ended his college career as the highest scoring player in MIAA history with 2,829 career points. His record in college was 131-8, including a perfect 17-0 in NCAA tournament games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614828235345.png" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Houston Rockets have signed former Northwest Missouri State guard and two-time Division II Player of the Year Trevor Hudgins to a two-way contract.The news came late Thursday night following the conclusion of the NBA Draft. A two-way contract&nbsp;pays a player dependent on the league in which they are playing - either the NBA or the G-League.Hudgins, the first Northwest player to ever sign an NBA contract, averaged 23.0 points, 4.3 assists and 1.5 steals as a senior. He shot 48.2% from the field, 41.5% from three-point range and 90.1% from the foul line this past season as well.He was named Most Outstanding Player in the Division II NCAA Tournament in 2019 and 2022, and won three national titles with the Bearcats.Hudgins had one year of eligibility remaining, but chose to forego it and enter the draft. ESPN ranks Hudgins 33rd on its list of best undrafted players.He ended his college career as the highest scoring player in MIAA history with 2,829 career points. His record in college was 131-8, including a perfect 17-0 in NCAA tournament games.

Former Bearcat Trevor Hudgins signs contract with Houston Rockets

The St. Joseph Mustangs (13-7) scored their third straight win Thursday with a 13-8 victory over the Joplin Outlaws at Phil Welch Stadium.

Trailing 6-2 entering the bottom of the sixth inning, the Mustangs put up six runs in the sixth and five more in the seventh to take the lead for good.

Dylan Carey and Jack Wagner each had a pair of hits, while Karl Koerper had a single-shot home run in the fourth inning.

St. Joseph native Dawson Smith started on the mound, going 5.2 innings and striking out six while walking four and surrendering four earned runs.

Another St. Joseph native, Tanner Schmidt, got the win on the mound, tossing 1.1 innings, striking out two and allowing no hits.

The Mustangs stay home to host the Carroll Merchants both Friday and Saturday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. both nights.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656072506150.jpeg" alt="Dawson Smith. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Dawson Smith. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs (13-7) scored their third straight win Thursday with a 13-8 victory over the Joplin Outlaws at Phil Welch Stadium.Trailing 6-2 entering the bottom of the sixth inning, the Mustangs put up six runs in the sixth and five more in the seventh to take the lead for good.Dylan Carey and Jack Wagner each had a pair of hits, while Karl Koerper had a single-shot home run in the fourth inning.St. Joseph native Dawson Smith started on the mound, going 5.2 innings and striking out six while walking four and surrendering four earned runs.Another St. Joseph native, Tanner Schmidt, got the win on the mound, tossing 1.1 innings, striking out two and allowing no hits.The Mustangs stay home to host the Carroll Merchants both Friday and Saturday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. both nights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656072544439.jpeg" alt="Brady Holden." />
 <figcaption>Brady Holden.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656072594910.jpeg" alt="Karl Koerper is greeted by Johnny Coy (13) after hitting a home run in the fourth inning." />
 <figcaption>Karl Koerper is greeted by Johnny Coy (13) after hitting a home run in the fourth inning.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Mustangs come alive late to down Joplin, win third straight game

The St. Joseph Sports Commission unveiled its second <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/432831fe-146a-4394-8b26-213041cead8e">St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class</a> last week, and one inductee is one of the more influential college basketball coaches in the city's history.

Former Missouri Western men's basketball coach Tom Smith is a 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee after leading the Griffons to a school record 448 wins in 25 seasons from 1988 - 2013.

Smith, who's already in five other Halls of Fame, says this one is particularly special.

"This is a special award and a special Hall of Fame to go into, because it's in the town I lived in with my family and wife," Smith said. "Patsy worked for the school for 20 years plus."

Smith took the Missouri Western men's basketball team to the NCAA tournament 11 times and won five MIAA regular season and five MIAA tournament titles. He was inducted into this year's Area Sports Hall of Fame with 11 other individuals, along with St. Joseph-based Herzog Motorsports.

Smith's coaching career spans 36 total years - 25 of those at Missouri Western.&nbsp;Smith says when he was looking for his next coaching job in 1988, he had noticed that St. Joseph was a pretty strong basketball town, given what other regional schools it was up against.

"In the middle of Missouri and Kansas and Kansas State and everything else, it still held its own," Smith said. "I don't want to say it was more important than football, but (basketball) held its own with football. It was one of the things I considered very highly, and I think as the years wore on, I became even more convinced (St. Joseph) was a great place to coach."

Smith also coached at his alma mater Valparaiso and Central Missouri, compiling 618 total wins in his career.

He's already a member of the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame, the MIAA Hall of Fame and several more. The floor at Missouri Western Fieldhouse was named in Smith's honor in February 2019.

Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says Smith took over at a time when Missouri Western transitioned from NAIA to NCAA competition, and he had the whole community excited about his team.

"(The MWSU Fieldhouse) was packed," Esely said. "It was the place to be on Saturday night. The level of play was good. You held on every play, and it was like that for 25 seasons in Coach Smith's career at Missouri Western State University."&nbsp;

The entire 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class will officially be enshrined into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame during a September ceremony at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656013032650.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Sports Commission unveiled its second <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/432831fe-146a-4394-8b26-213041cead8e">St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class</a> last week, and one inductee is one of the more influential college basketball coaches in the city's history.Former Missouri Western men's basketball coach Tom Smith is a 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee after leading the Griffons to a school record 448 wins in 25 seasons from 1988 - 2013.Smith, who's already in five other Halls of Fame, says this one is particularly special."This is a special award and a special Hall of Fame to go into, because it's in the town I lived in with my family and wife," Smith said. "Patsy worked for the school for 20 years plus."Smith took the Missouri Western men's basketball team to the NCAA tournament 11 times and won five MIAA regular season and five MIAA tournament titles. He was inducted into this year's Area Sports Hall of Fame with 11 other individuals, along with St. Joseph-based Herzog Motorsports.Smith's coaching career spans 36 total years - 25 of those at Missouri Western.&nbsp;Smith says when he was looking for his next coaching job in 1988, he had noticed that St. Joseph was a pretty strong basketball town, given what other regional schools it was up against."In the middle of Missouri and Kansas and Kansas State and everything else, it still held its own," Smith said. "I don't want to say it was more important than football, but (basketball) held its own with football. It was one of the things I considered very highly, and I think as the years wore on, I became even more convinced (St. Joseph) was a great place to coach."Smith also coached at his alma mater Valparaiso and Central Missouri, compiling 618 total wins in his career.He's already a member of the Missouri Western Athletics Hall of Fame, the MIAA Hall of Fame and several more. The floor at Missouri Western Fieldhouse was named in Smith's honor in February 2019.Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says Smith took over at a time when Missouri Western transitioned from NAIA to NCAA competition, and he had the whole community excited about his team."(The MWSU Fieldhouse) was packed," Esely said. "It was the place to be on Saturday night. The level of play was good. You held on every play, and it was like that for 25 seasons in Coach Smith's career at Missouri Western State University."&nbsp;The entire 2022 St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame class will officially be enshrined into the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame during a September ceremony at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Former-Missouri-Western-coach-Tom-Smith-on-St--Joseph-Area-Sports-Hall-of-Fame-induction-e1kbvlt" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Tom Smith humbled by St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame induction

The St. Joseph Mustangs scored 15 runs on 16 hits and made quick work of the Carroll Merchants with a 15-1 win at Carroll in seven innings Wednesday.

Trevor McCollum led the way at the plate, going 4-for-5 with two runs scored and five RBIs. Jaxon Himel went 3-for-3 with three runs scored and three RBIs.

Mason Holton went five innings on the mound, striking out two and walking none. The Mustangs have won four of their last six, and are an impressive 8-3 away from home.

St. Joseph comes back to open a three-game homestand this weekend, starting with a home game against Joplin on Thursday. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs scored 15 runs on 16 hits and made quick work of the Carroll Merchants with a 15-1 win at Carroll in seven innings Wednesday.Trevor McCollum led the way at the plate, going 4-for-5 with two runs scored and five RBIs. Jaxon Himel went 3-for-3 with three runs scored and three RBIs.Mason Holton went five innings on the mound, striking out two and walking none. The Mustangs have won four of their last six, and are an impressive 8-3 away from home.St. Joseph comes back to open a three-game homestand this weekend, starting with a home game against Joplin on Thursday. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs tally 16 hits, earn dominant win at Carroll Wednesday

(AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit two three-run homers and drove in a career-high eight runs, but Whit Merrifield led off the 11th inning with an RBI double in the Kansas City Royals’ 12-11 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. 

Ohtani crushed a 423-foot homer in the sixth and a tying, 438-foot shot in the ninth, giving him the biggest RBI game of his five-year stateside career. The AL MVP then set a record for the most RBIs by a Japanese-born player in major league history with a sacrifice fly in the 11th inning. 

Carlos Santana had four hits and drove in a season-high five runs for the Royals, while rookie Bobby Witt Jr. had his first multi-homer game while driving in a career-high four runs.

The Royals continue the series tonight at 8:49 central. Coverage starts at 8:10 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit two three-run homers and drove in a career-high eight runs, but Whit Merrifield led off the 11th inning with an RBI double in the Kansas City Royals’ 12-11 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani crushed a 423-foot homer in the sixth and a tying, 438-foot shot in the ninth, giving him the biggest RBI game of his five-year stateside career. The AL MVP then set a record for the most RBIs by a Japanese-born player in major league history with a sacrifice fly in the 11th inning. Carlos Santana had four hits and drove in a season-high five runs for the Royals, while rookie Bobby Witt Jr. had his first multi-homer game while driving in a career-high four runs.The Royals continue the series tonight at 8:49 central. Coverage starts at 8:10 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Royals overcome Ohtani's 2 HRs, 8 RBIs to beat Angels 12-11

The St. Joseph Mustangs (11-7) scored five runs in the first two innings, scored three insurance runs in the eighth and fended off first place Clarinda on the road Tuesday, 9-8.

The win for the Mustangs ended a six-game win streak for the As, who beat St. Joseph 5-3 on the Mustangs' opening night on June 1 at Phil Welch Stadium.

Dylan Carey led the way at the plate, going 2-for-5 with a run scored. Karl Koerper had a three-run RBI double in the top of the first to get the scoring started.

Clarinda (13-4) tied the game at 6-6 in the sixth inning and took an 8-6 lead in the bottom of the seventh before St. Joseph came back with three runs in the top of the eighth.

Morichika Hama was the winning pitcher, striking out three batters and allowing just one hit over the final two innings. Savannah alum Micah Diamond made the start, going five innings, striking out four batters, walking four others and allowing four earned runs.

The Mustangs are on the road again Wednesday, playing the Carroll Merchants. First pitch is set for 6:45.

The Mustangs swept Carroll on the road back on June 13, 12-3 and 10-3, in a doubleheader.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs (11-7) scored five runs in the first two innings, scored three insurance runs in the eighth and fended off first place Clarinda on the road Tuesday, 9-8.The win for the Mustangs ended a six-game win streak for the As, who beat St. Joseph 5-3 on the Mustangs' opening night on June 1 at Phil Welch Stadium.Dylan Carey led the way at the plate, going 2-for-5 with a run scored. Karl Koerper had a three-run RBI double in the top of the first to get the scoring started.Clarinda (13-4) tied the game at 6-6 in the sixth inning and took an 8-6 lead in the bottom of the seventh before St. Joseph came back with three runs in the top of the eighth.Morichika Hama was the winning pitcher, striking out three batters and allowing just one hit over the final two innings. Savannah alum Micah Diamond made the start, going five innings, striking out four batters, walking four others and allowing four earned runs.The Mustangs are on the road again Wednesday, playing the Carroll Merchants. First pitch is set for 6:45.The Mustangs swept Carroll on the road back on June 13, 12-3 and 10-3, in a doubleheader.

Mustangs get off to quick start, hold off Clarinda on the road Tuesday

Tickets for Kansas City Chiefs training camp became available to season ticket holders Tuesday and now can be reserved by the general public, starting Wednesday.

The Chiefs will be back in St. Joseph for training camp for a 12th time this summer with open practices starting July 28. Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter says preparations continue as the campus and city get ready to roll out the red carpet.

"I think it's very exciting," Carter said. "We actually had an operational meeting (Tuesday) and kind of worked through a lot of the moving parts. I think it will be more exciting once they actually get here and we're facing live bullets rather than talking about it. But, it's an exciting time to be a Griffon."

All training camp practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields on the Missouri Western campus. Members of the general public can reserve their training camp tickets starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday by going to Chiefs.com/trainingcamp.

While fans were allowed back at camp in 2021, there were still certain COVID restrictions in place. This year is full steam ahead, as fan autograph sessions are back after being suspended last summer.

Marci Bennett, executive director for the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, says getting camp back last year was nice, but there were still difficulties.

"Last year was kind of like tiptoeing through the tulips," she said. "Because, we didn't have it the year before and then last year, we were still really perusing the COVID situation."

Even with the restrictions last year, Bennett says the economic impact of training camp in the city is hard to exactly measure, but is certainly palpable.

"We know it's a big impact," she said. "Our hotels show a big increase and they can tell. I mean, they're not asking people if they're here for Chiefs camp, but if three-fourths of the people checking in on a Friday night have Chiefs jerseys on, you know it's making an impact."

Carter says this is the final year the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph, according to the current agreement. But, he's optimistic a more long-term deal can be sorted out.

"They're not required to tell us what they want to do necessarily until March when their season is over," he explained. "But, I can tell you I have had a conversation, very high-level, very brief. Didn't dig in, but started that discussion and it was very positive."

The Chiefs have come to St. Joseph for camp every year since 2010, with the exception of 2020 due to COVID-19. 

The CVB is still in the process of planning and marketing this year's camp, but Bennett says one staple, the 'Welcome Chiefs' yard signs, will start popping up again soon.

"Not only does that welcome the Chiefs," she said, "but it reminds all of our local residents that, 'Hey! The Chiefs are here! They're here right now!' That's kind of cool, too. It kind of pumps up the community."

Moreover, Bennett says training camp is a great opportunity for fans from outside the city to explore St. Joseph and learn more about what it has to offer.

"What that does in my mind is help those Chiefs fans realize that, 'Okay, once Chiefs season is over, and we want to go somewhere and not have to put five tanks of gas in our car to get there, let's go to St. Joe. Let's see what that town really is all about.'"

The full 2022 Chiefs' training camp schedule <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a5d6b5f3-7f76-46ab-b52c-89b403fb5bda">can be viewed here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655896157498.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTickets for Kansas City Chiefs training camp became available to season ticket holders Tuesday and now can be reserved by the general public, starting Wednesday.The Chiefs will be back in St. Joseph for training camp for a 12th time this summer with open practices starting July 28. Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter says preparations continue as the campus and city get ready to roll out the red carpet."I think it's very exciting," Carter said. "We actually had an operational meeting (Tuesday) and kind of worked through a lot of the moving parts. I think it will be more exciting once they actually get here and we're facing live bullets rather than talking about it. But, it's an exciting time to be a Griffon."All training camp practices will be held at the Mosaic Training Fields on the Missouri Western campus. Members of the general public can reserve their training camp tickets starting at 10 a.m. Wednesday by going to Chiefs.com/trainingcamp.While fans were allowed back at camp in 2021, there were still certain COVID restrictions in place. This year is full steam ahead, as fan autograph sessions are back after being suspended last summer.Marci Bennett, executive director for the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, says getting camp back last year was nice, but there were still difficulties."Last year was kind of like tiptoeing through the tulips," she said. "Because, we didn't have it the year before and then last year, we were still really perusing the COVID situation."Even with the restrictions last year, Bennett says the economic impact of training camp in the city is hard to exactly measure, but is certainly palpable."We know it's a big impact," she said. "Our hotels show a big increase and they can tell. I mean, they're not asking people if they're here for Chiefs camp, but if three-fourths of the people checking in on a Friday night have Chiefs jerseys on, you know it's making an impact."Carter says this is the final year the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph, according to the current agreement. But, he's optimistic a more long-term deal can be sorted out."They're not required to tell us what they want to do necessarily until March when their season is over," he explained. "But, I can tell you I have had a conversation, very high-level, very brief. Didn't dig in, but started that discussion and it was very positive."The Chiefs have come to St. Joseph for camp every year since 2010, with the exception of 2020 due to COVID-19. The CVB is still in the process of planning and marketing this year's camp, but Bennett says one staple, the 'Welcome Chiefs' yard signs, will start popping up again soon."Not only does that welcome the Chiefs," she said, "but it reminds all of our local residents that, 'Hey! The Chiefs are here! They're here right now!' That's kind of cool, too. It kind of pumps up the community."Moreover, Bennett says training camp is a great opportunity for fans from outside the city to explore St. Joseph and learn more about what it has to offer."What that does in my mind is help those Chiefs fans realize that, 'Okay, once Chiefs season is over, and we want to go somewhere and not have to put five tanks of gas in our car to get there, let's go to St. Joe. Let's see what that town really is all about.'"The full 2022 Chiefs' training camp schedule <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/a5d6b5f3-7f76-46ab-b52c-89b403fb5bda">can be viewed here</a>.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

City, MWSU officials preparing for Chiefs training camp as fans reserve tickets

(AP) - Andrew Benintendi, Salvador Perez and Hunter Dozier homered, Nicky Lopez drove in the go-ahead run in the seventh and the Kansas City Royals defeated the Los Angeles Angels 6-2 Monday in the opener of a three-game series.

Kris Bubic, who came into the game as one of four pitchers in the majors to have at least eight starts and no wins this season, struck out a season-high seven in six innings for his first victory.

Taylor Ward had two hits — including a homer in the third inning — and drove in both runs for the Angels. Los Angeles had come in with some momentum after taking four of five in Seattle, but managed only seven hits.

The Royals continue the series tonight at 8:40 central. Coverage starts at 8 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Jonathan Heasley starts on the mound.

St. Joseph Post(AP) - Andrew Benintendi, Salvador Perez and Hunter Dozier homered, Nicky Lopez drove in the go-ahead run in the seventh and the Kansas City Royals defeated the Los Angeles Angels 6-2 Monday in the opener of a three-game series.Kris Bubic, who came into the game as one of four pitchers in the majors to have at least eight starts and no wins this season, struck out a season-high seven in six innings for his first victory.Taylor Ward had two hits — including a homer in the third inning — and drove in both runs for the Angels. Los Angeles had come in with some momentum after taking four of five in Seattle, but managed only seven hits.The Royals continue the series tonight at 8:40 central. Coverage starts at 8 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Jonathan Heasley starts on the mound.

Royals smash three homers, win series opener against Angels Monday

Jared Koenig pitched into the sixth inning for his first career win and combined with three relievers on a three-hitter, helping the Oakland Athletics beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 Sunday to end an eight-game home losing streak.

The Royals stranded six runners in scoring position and were shut out for the ninth time this season. Still, the Royals got their first series victory this past weekend in over a month.

The Royals continue their west coast swing Monday as they open a three-game series at Los Angeles. First pitch is set for 8:40 central. Coverage starts at 8 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Kris Bubic will start on the mound.

St. Joseph PostJared Koenig pitched into the sixth inning for his first career win and combined with three relievers on a three-hitter, helping the Oakland Athletics beat the Kansas City Royals 4-0 Sunday to end an eight-game home losing streak.The Royals stranded six runners in scoring position and were shut out for the ninth time this season. Still, the Royals got their first series victory this past weekend in over a month.The Royals continue their west coast swing Monday as they open a three-game series at Los Angeles. First pitch is set for 8:40 central. Coverage starts at 8 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Kris Bubic will start on the mound.

Royals shut out by As Sunday, head to Los Angeles Monday

(AP) — Brad Keller allowed one hit in seven crisp innings to lift Kansas City to a 2-0 win over the Oakland Athletics. 

Jose Cuas retired two batters and allowed a one-out double in the eighth. Scott Barlow set down the final four batters for his eighth save to complete the two-hitter and give the Royals a third consecutive win.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Brad Keller allowed one hit in seven crisp innings to lift Kansas City to a 2-0 win over the Oakland Athletics. Jose Cuas retired two batters and allowed a one-out double in the eighth. Scott Barlow set down the final four batters for his eighth save to complete the two-hitter and give the Royals a third consecutive win. The A’s were shut out for the eighth time this season, dropped their eighth straight at home, and fell to a majors-worst 22-45. Oakland has lost 15 of 17. Keller (2-8) was dominant in his first win since May 3. The 22-year-old retired 17 of the first 18 batters he faced and worked around three walks for his first road victory in five starts this season.The Royals are back at Oakland Sunday at 3:07 central. Coverage starts at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.