The Kansas City Chiefs moved up in the draft for a second night in a row, moving up one spot on to select BYU offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia with the 63rd pick in the NFL Draft.  

The Chiefs swapped second round picks with the San Fransisco 49ers, also trading fifth round No. 173 to San Fransisco in exchange for sixth round No. 211. 

Suamataia was an All-Big 12 second team offensive lineman last year at BYU.  Since 2022, he has allowed just two sacks and had double digit starts on both the left and right side of the line.  

Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach said they would look for someone in the draft to provide competition for Wanya Morris, who was picked in the third-round last year, for the starting left tackle position.  

Sumataia will help shore up an offensive tackle position that was 31st last year in run block win rate, coming in ahead of just the New York Jets.  He will help fill a hole left by veteran tackle Donovan Smith who is a free agent.  

The Chiefs had no picks in the third round and will have four picks on the final day of the draft, No. 133 in the fourth, No. 159 in the fifth, No. 211 in the sixth, and No. 248 in the seventh.

Mizzou's Ennis Rakestraw headed to Detroit, Ty'Ron Hopper to Green Bay

The Detroit Lions selected Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr with the No. 61 pick in the second round on Friday.  

Rakestraw played in nine games, starting eight, as a junior at Mizzou last season as a redshirt junior, with four pass breakups and 35 total tackles.  He was targeted just 28 times in those nine games.  

Another Tiger, linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper will join Rakestraw in the NFC North, after he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers with the No. 91 pick in the third round.  

Hopper led Missouri last season with 55 tackles, before an ankle injury sidelined him from the final two games of the season.  He earned second team All-SEC honors last year and was also a finalist for the Butkus Award given to the nation's top linebacker

K State's Ben Sinnott to Washington, Cooper Beebe to Dallas

The Washington Commanders selected Kansas State tight End Ben Sinnott with No. 53 in the second round on Friday.  

Sinnott was a four-year contributor for the Wildcats, totaling 1,138 yards and 10 touchdowns on 82 catches.  He was a Third Team All-American and First Team Big 12 selection. 

He'll look to make an impact right away for the Commanders after veteran tight end Logan Thomas retired, helping fill a major hole on the Washington depth chart.  

Joining Sinnott in the NFC East will be offensive guard Cooper Beebe who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round at No. 73.  

Beebe was a First Team All-Big 12 selection last year.  He was also named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year for a second year in a row, becoming the first K State offensive lineman to win the award in back-to-back years since Dalton Risner. 

Beebe will once again have the chance to block for running back Deuce Vaughn, who was a Cowboys pick last year in the fifth round.

Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni drafted by 49ers

The San Fransisco 49ers selected Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni in the third round Friday with pick No. 86.  

Puni was a standout at Central Missouri before transferring to Kansas in 2022 where he earned honors across the offensive line, including honorable mention All-Big 12 in 2022 at left guard, and first team All-Big 12 last year at left tackle.  He was also named a finalist for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year 

The Super Bowl runner ups adding Puni gives versatility across the offensive line.  In addition to starting games at both tackle positions and left guard, Puni took snaps at center in the Senior Bowl.  The right side of the line has been weak for San Fransisco, providing opportunity for Puni to be named the week one starting right guard, but could also get looks at right tackle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191844604.jpeg" alt="Kingsley Suamataia/ Photo courtesy of BYU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kingsley Suamataia/ Photo courtesy of BYU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs moved up in the draft for a second night in a row, moving up one spot on to select BYU offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia with the 63rd pick in the NFL Draft. The Chiefs swapped second round picks with the San Fransisco 49ers, also trading fifth round No. 173 to San Fransisco in exchange for sixth round No. 211. Suamataia was an All-Big 12 second team offensive lineman last year at BYU. Since 2022, he has allowed just two sacks and had double digit starts on both the left and right side of the line. Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach said they would look for someone in the draft to provide competition for Wanya Morris, who was picked in the third-round last year, for the starting left tackle position. Sumataia will help shore up an offensive tackle position that was 31st last year in run block win rate, coming in ahead of just the New York Jets. He will help fill a hole left by veteran tackle Donovan Smith who is a free agent. The Chiefs had no picks in the third round and will have four picks on the final day of the draft, No. 133 in the fourth, No. 159 in the fifth, No. 211 in the sixth, and No. 248 in the seventh.Mizzou's Ennis Rakestraw headed to Detroit, Ty'Ron Hopper to Green Bay<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191810292.jpeg" alt="Ennis Rakestraw Jr./ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ennis Rakestraw Jr./ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Detroit Lions selected Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr with the No. 61 pick in the second round on Friday. Rakestraw played in nine games, starting eight, as a junior at Mizzou last season as a redshirt junior, with four pass breakups and 35 total tackles. He was targeted just 28 times in those nine games. Another Tiger, linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper will join Rakestraw in the NFC North, after he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers with the No. 91 pick in the third round. Hopper led Missouri last season with 55 tackles, before an ankle injury sidelined him from the final two games of the season. He earned second team All-SEC honors last year and was also a finalist for the Butkus Award given to the nation's top linebacker<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191757860.jpeg" alt="Ty'Ron Hopper (8)/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ty'Ron Hopper (8)/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>K State's Ben Sinnott to Washington, Cooper Beebe to Dallas<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714191676101.jpeg" alt="Ben Sinnott/Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Ben Sinnott/Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Washington Commanders selected Kansas State tight End Ben Sinnott with No. 53 in the second round on Friday. Sinnott was a four-year contributor for the Wildcats, totaling 1,138 yards and 10 touchdowns on 82 catches. He was a Third Team All-American and First Team Big 12 selection. He'll look to make an impact right away for the Commanders after veteran tight end Logan Thomas retired, helping fill a major hole on the Washington depth chart. Joining Sinnott in the NFC East will be offensive guard Cooper Beebe who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the third round at No. 73. Beebe was a First Team All-Big 12 selection last year. He was also named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year for a second year in a row, becoming the first K State offensive lineman to win the award in back-to-back years since Dalton Risner. Beebe will once again have the chance to block for running back Deuce Vaughn, who was a Cowboys pick last year in the fifth round.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714185543713.png" alt="Cooper Beebe/ Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Cooper Beebe/ Photo courtesy of Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni drafted by 49ersThe San Fransisco 49ers selected Kansas offensive tackle Dominick Puni in the third round Friday with pick No. 86. Puni was a standout at Central Missouri before transferring to Kansas in 2022 where he earned honors across the offensive line, including honorable mention All-Big 12 in 2022 at left guard, and first team All-Big 12 last year at left tackle. He was also named a finalist for the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year The Super Bowl runner ups adding Puni gives versatility across the offensive line. In addition to starting games at both tackle positions and left guard, Puni took snaps at center in the Senior Bowl. The right side of the line has been weak for San Fransisco, providing opportunity for Puni to be named the week one starting right guard, but could also get looks at right tackle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714186526313.png" alt="Dominick Puni/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Dominick Puni/ Photo courtesy of Kansas Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>

Chiefs trade up again in second round to take offensive lineman Kingsley Suamataia

DETROIT (AP) — Seth Lugo pitched seven scoreless innings and the Kansas City Royals won their fourth straight game, beating the Detroit Tigers 8-0 on Friday.

Lugo (4-1) allowed three singles and matched a career high with nine strikeouts in a game played at 1:10 pm due to the NFL draft festivities in downtown Detroit on Friday evening.

Tigers starter Reese Olson (0-4) allowed one run on three hits and three walks in seven innings, striking out eight.

Kansas City led 1-0 before scoring seven runs in the ninth inning.

With one out in the third, Adam Frazier and Kyle Isbel singled before Maikel Garcia walked to load the bases for the Royals. Bobby Witt Jr. hit a sacrifice fly to center.

The Tigers thought they had the lead in the bottom of the third, but Frazier reached over the right-field fence to rob Parker Meadows of a home run before doubling Javier Báez off first.

Detroit got a pair of two-out hits against former teammate John Schreiber in the eighth, but he struck out Spencer Torkelson to end the inning.

The Royals loaded the bases with one out in the ninth, thanks to two singles and a walk off Tyler Holton. Holton, usually one of Detroit's best control pitchers, then hit Frazier and Isbel with consecutive pitches to make it 3-0.

Garcia greeted Will Vest with a two-run single to put the Royals up by five, and Witt tripled before Vinnie Pasquantino's sacrifice fly made it 8-0.

The teams play the second game of the series on Saturday evening. RHP Casey Mize (1-0, 2.95) is scheduled to start for Detroit against RHP Brady Singer (3-0, 1.82).&nbsp; Pregame at 4:30pm with first pitch at 5:10pm on 680 KFEQ.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714161176264.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Seth Lugo pitched seven scoreless innings and the Kansas City Royals won their fourth straight game, beating the Detroit Tigers 8-0 on Friday.Lugo (4-1) allowed three singles and matched a career high with nine strikeouts in a game played at 1:10 pm due to the NFL draft festivities in downtown Detroit on Friday evening.Tigers starter Reese Olson (0-4) allowed one run on three hits and three walks in seven innings, striking out eight.Kansas City led 1-0 before scoring seven runs in the ninth inning.With one out in the third, Adam Frazier and Kyle Isbel singled before Maikel Garcia walked to load the bases for the Royals. Bobby Witt Jr. hit a sacrifice fly to center.The Tigers thought they had the lead in the bottom of the third, but Frazier reached over the right-field fence to rob Parker Meadows of a home run before doubling Javier Báez off first.Detroit got a pair of two-out hits against former teammate John Schreiber in the eighth, but he struck out Spencer Torkelson to end the inning.The Royals loaded the bases with one out in the ninth, thanks to two singles and a walk off Tyler Holton. Holton, usually one of Detroit's best control pitchers, then hit Frazier and Isbel with consecutive pitches to make it 3-0.Garcia greeted Will Vest with a two-run single to put the Royals up by five, and Witt tripled before Vinnie Pasquantino's sacrifice fly made it 8-0.UP NEXTThe teams play the second game of the series on Saturday evening. RHP Casey Mize (1-0, 2.95) is scheduled to start for Detroit against RHP Brady Singer (3-0, 1.82).&nbsp; Pregame at 4:30pm with first pitch at 5:10pm on 680 KFEQ.

Seth Lugo throws 7 scoreless innings, leads Royals past Tigers 8-0

The Kansas City Chiefs traded up to select Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy with the No. 28 pick in the NFL draft on Thursday night, giving Patrick Mahomes a speedy deep threat as legal uncertainty surrounds the future of Rashee Rice.

The Chiefs were supposed to pick 32nd overall - last in the first round - after winning their second consecutive Super Bowl, but they managed to make a trade with one of their biggest AFC rivals in Buffalo.

The Chiefs sent the No. 32 pick, along with a fourth-rounder and seventh-rounder, to the Bills for No. 28 overall, a fourth-round and seventh-round pick.

Worthy broke the NFL combine record when he ran a 4.21-second 40-yard dash, exhibiting the kind of raw speed that Kansas City once enjoyed with Tyreek Hill.

Worthy is more than just a deep threat, showing promise as a route runner, catching 75 passes for 1,014 yards and five TDs for the Longhorns in 2023.

He could immediately help Kansas City, which led the NFL with 2.6 dropped passes per game last season.

The Chiefs were in the market for a wide receiver even before Rice was arrested following a high-speed sports car crash in Texas in which several people were hurt in Dallas in late March.

Rice is facing eight charges, including one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury. He has been released on bond.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid has said that Rice would continue to attend offseason meetings while his legal situation plays out.

Kansas City has six picks remaining. They'll pick in the second round at No. 64 overall next.

Mizzou's Darius Robinson headed to the Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals selected Mizzou defensive lineman Darius Robinson with the No. 27 pick during the first round Thursday.

Robinson was First-Team All-SEC for the Tigers in 2023 with 43 total tackles, 8.5 sacks and 14 tackles for losses.

Robinson's draft stock skyrocketed after a successful Senior Bowl, where he was voted the "overall practice player of the week" by NFL scouts and executives and a dominant Scouting combine appearance.

The Associated Press and AZCardinals.com contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714103837091.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Texas athletics." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Texas athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs traded up to select Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy with the No. 28 pick in the NFL draft on Thursday night, giving Patrick Mahomes a speedy deep threat as legal uncertainty surrounds the future of Rashee Rice.The Chiefs were supposed to pick 32nd overall - last in the first round - after winning their second consecutive Super Bowl, but they managed to make a trade with one of their biggest AFC rivals in Buffalo.The Chiefs sent the No. 32 pick, along with a fourth-rounder and seventh-rounder, to the Bills for No. 28 overall, a fourth-round and seventh-round pick.Worthy broke the NFL combine record when he ran a 4.21-second 40-yard dash, exhibiting the kind of raw speed that Kansas City once enjoyed with Tyreek Hill.Worthy is more than just a deep threat, showing promise as a route runner, catching 75 passes for 1,014 yards and five TDs for the Longhorns in 2023.He could immediately help Kansas City, which led the NFL with 2.6 dropped passes per game last season.The Chiefs were in the market for a wide receiver even before Rice was arrested following a high-speed sports car crash in Texas in which several people were hurt in Dallas in late March.Rice is facing eight charges, including one count of aggravated assault, one count of collision involving serious bodily injury and six counts of collision involving injury. He has been released on bond.Chiefs coach Andy Reid has said that Rice would continue to attend offseason meetings while his legal situation plays out.Kansas City has six picks remaining. They'll pick in the second round at No. 64 overall next.Mizzou's Darius Robinson headed to the CardinalsThe Arizona Cardinals selected Mizzou defensive lineman Darius Robinson with the No. 27 pick during the first round Thursday.Robinson was First-Team All-SEC for the Tigers in 2023 with 43 total tackles, 8.5 sacks and 14 tackles for losses.Robinson's draft stock skyrocketed after a successful Senior Bowl, where he was voted the "overall practice player of the week" by NFL scouts and executives and a dominant Scouting combine appearance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714104145969.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Mizzou athletics." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Mizzou athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Associated Press and AZCardinals.com contributed to this report.

Chiefs trade up with Bills to get Texas WR Xavier Worthy at No. 28 in NFL draft

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the first inning, Cole Ragans held Toronto in check long enough for the rain to arrive, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Blue Jays 2-1 on Thursday in a game called after five innings and a long weather delay.

Ragans (1-2) allowed the lone Toronto run on three hits and three walks while striking out four.

José Berrios (4-1) had his streak of 22 1/3 scoreless innings snapped when Perez, following Vinnie Pasquantino's two-out walk, deposited&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BallySportsKC/status/1783563442760094190">the first pitch he saw into the left-field bullpen</a>&nbsp;to give Kansas City the lead in the first inning.

When the fifth ended, and an early drizzle had turned to steady rain, umpire chief Chris Guccione called for the tarp to cover the infield. Blue Jays manager John Schneider came out to argue, wanting another opportunity to tie or take the lead, and apparently he convinced Guccione to have the grounds crew roll the tarp back and attempt to get the field in shape.

After about 10 minutes, Guccione again summoned the tarp. The field was covered for about 2 hours, and when the rain stopped, the grounds crew spent another hour-plus working on it. At that point, the game was called after a delay of 3 hours, 38 minutes.

Ragans had to work around plenty of trouble early, including a runner-on-the-corners situation in the second, when he got Alejandro Kirk to fly out. In the fourth, the Blue Jays bookended Davis Schneider's walk with hits by Justin Turner and Ernie Clement to cut the Royals' lead in half, but Daulton Varsho and Kirk could not get across the tying run.

The Blue Jays had another try in the fifth, when center fielder Kyle Isbel made&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BallySportsKC/status/1783578273974239339">a spectacular over-the-shoulder catch</a>&nbsp;of Isiah Kiner-Falefa's drive to the warning track. Isbel also raced down George Springer's blooper. Then, after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drew a walk, Bo Bichette popped foul to end what turned out to be the Blue Jays' final at-bat.

The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday afternoon with first pitch at 12:10 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708710110872.png" alt="ROYALS 24.png" />
 <figcaption>ROYALS 24.png</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Salvador Perez hit a two-run homer in the first inning, Cole Ragans held Toronto in check long enough for the rain to arrive, and the Kansas City Royals beat the Blue Jays 2-1 on Thursday in a game called after five innings and a long weather delay.Ragans (1-2) allowed the lone Toronto run on three hits and three walks while striking out four.José Berrios (4-1) had his streak of 22 1/3 scoreless innings snapped when Perez, following Vinnie Pasquantino's two-out walk, deposited&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BallySportsKC/status/1783563442760094190">the first pitch he saw into the left-field bullpen</a>&nbsp;to give Kansas City the lead in the first inning.When the fifth ended, and an early drizzle had turned to steady rain, umpire chief Chris Guccione called for the tarp to cover the infield. Blue Jays manager John Schneider came out to argue, wanting another opportunity to tie or take the lead, and apparently he convinced Guccione to have the grounds crew roll the tarp back and attempt to get the field in shape.After about 10 minutes, Guccione again summoned the tarp. The field was covered for about 2 hours, and when the rain stopped, the grounds crew spent another hour-plus working on it. At that point, the game was called after a delay of 3 hours, 38 minutes.Ragans had to work around plenty of trouble early, including a runner-on-the-corners situation in the second, when he got Alejandro Kirk to fly out. In the fourth, the Blue Jays bookended Davis Schneider's walk with hits by Justin Turner and Ernie Clement to cut the Royals' lead in half, but Daulton Varsho and Kirk could not get across the tying run.The Blue Jays had another try in the fifth, when center fielder Kyle Isbel made&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BallySportsKC/status/1783578273974239339">a spectacular over-the-shoulder catch</a>&nbsp;of Isiah Kiner-Falefa's drive to the warning track. Isbel also raced down George Springer's blooper. Then, after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drew a walk, Bo Bichette popped foul to end what turned out to be the Blue Jays' final at-bat.The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday afternoon with first pitch at 12:10 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Perez homers as KC beats Blue Jays 2-1 in game called after 5 innings, 3 1/2-hour rain delay

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Alec Marsh and four relievers combined for a six-hitter as the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 Wednesday night.

Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez each had two hits and an RBI for Kansas City, which bounced back from a loss in the series opener on Monday to win two straight.

John Schreiber (2-0) picked up the win in relief. James McArthur earned his sixth save.

Yariel Rodríguez (0-1) gave up three runs on six hits in four innings. He struck out two and walked two.

Marsh left the game with one out in the fifth inning after taking a line drive off his right forearm. He fielded the ball and threw out Addison Barger at first, but was removed after that. He gave up no runs on two hits.

The Royals scored in the first, helped by a couple of walks by Rodriguez. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino walked with one out, and Perez lined a single to left to score Witt.

The Royals added a run in the second. Kyle Isbel hit a two-out double that Barger misplayed into three bases. Barger, who made his debut Wednesday, played right field and third base in Triple-A. He broke in and the ball sailed over his head. Garcia singled, scoring Isbel with the Royals' second run.

The Blue Jays got on the board in the fifth when George Springer homered off reliever Angel Zerpa.

The Royals chased Rodriguez with three straight singles in the fifth. Witt's single scored Isbel with KC's third run.

Toronto got an RBI groundout from Ernie Clement to pull within 3-2 in the sixth.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on 680 KFEQ in St Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714012601218.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro (33) leads starting pitcher Alec Marsh (48) off the field during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals manager Matt Quatraro (33) leads starting pitcher Alec Marsh (48) off the field during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Alec Marsh and four relievers combined for a six-hitter as the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 Wednesday night.Maikel Garcia and Salvador Perez each had two hits and an RBI for Kansas City, which bounced back from a loss in the series opener on Monday to win two straight.John Schreiber (2-0) picked up the win in relief. James McArthur earned his sixth save.Yariel Rodríguez (0-1) gave up three runs on six hits in four innings. He struck out two and walked two.Marsh left the game with one out in the fifth inning after taking a line drive off his right forearm. He fielded the ball and threw out Addison Barger at first, but was removed after that. He gave up no runs on two hits.The Royals scored in the first, helped by a couple of walks by Rodriguez. Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino walked with one out, and Perez lined a single to left to score Witt.The Royals added a run in the second. Kyle Isbel hit a two-out double that Barger misplayed into three bases. Barger, who made his debut Wednesday, played right field and third base in Triple-A. He broke in and the ball sailed over his head. Garcia singled, scoring Isbel with the Royals' second run.The Blue Jays got on the board in the fifth when George Springer homered off reliever Angel Zerpa.The Royals chased Rodriguez with three straight singles in the fifth. Witt's single scored Isbel with KC's third run.Toronto got an RBI groundout from Ernie Clement to pull within 3-2 in the sixth.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on 680 KFEQ in St Joseph.

Alec Marsh and 4 relievers combined for a 6-hitter as the Royals beat the Blue Jays 3-2

MARYVILLE - Matt Keeley started from the ground up when he took over as the head men's basketball coach at Ottawa University in Arizona.

Literally. The program didn't exist until he started there in 2017.

Seven years, 113 wins, three national tournament berths and two conference titles later, Keeley takes over, arguably, the most structurally sound Division II men's program in the country.

Keeley was picked as the 21st coach in the history of Northwest men's basketball on April 13, and officially introduced Wednesday at the Lamkin Activity Center on the Maryville campus.

Being Ben McCollum's successor, Keeley says it's McCollum's predecessor, Steve Tappmeyer, who offered some words of wisdom in the early days on the job.

"(Steve) challenged me to just continue to embrace the greatness that this place is," Keeley said, "and to see it as something you're a part of in the story, and not something you're not trying to come and reinvent. And, I certainly took that to heart."

Keeley knows Northwest and the MIAA well enough, even before this job was on his radar. He was an assistant at Washburn from 2007-09 and then at MidAmerica Nazarene from 2009-17.

Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson was an assistant on McCollum's staff at Northwest from 2011-17. Peterson says it always 'stuck with him' that the Bearcats and Pioneers seemed to go after the same type of players on the recruiting trail during that time.

"(Matt) knows the value of the type of student-athletes we're after," Peterson said. "I can't tell you how many kids we recruited against each other on. It seemed, when it came down to the wire of where that kid was going to go, it was Northwest, Washburn and MidAmerica Nazarene. Northwest, UCM, MidAmerica Nazarene."

Keeley, a father of four, knows moving a family from the Phoenix metro to Maryville is no small thing. His oldest son, Cade, is a multi-sport athlete coming up through high school.

He was the toughest sell, but became more bought in the more he learned about the Bearcats' rich history.

"Like a coaches' kid, he's processing," Keeley said.

"He goes, 'D2? Yup, D2. Alright. Are we going to have some more scholarships? Yeah, we'll have some more scholarships up there. Okay.'"

"He's checking it out.&nbsp; Just thinking it through. 'They pretty good? Yeah, man. They're pretty good.'"

Indeed, pretty good. Northwest has won four national titles, all since 2017, to go with 11 consecutive MIAA regular championships and eight MIAA tournament titles in the last nine seasons.

Taking over the program that's achieved so much over the last 15 years is no small task. Nor is assembling its roster.

McCollum is taking starters Bennett Stirtz, Isaiah Jackson and Daniel Abrieu with him to Drake, but Keeley expressed confidence that the nine other players on roster, for now, seem all in on coming back for the upcoming season.

That includes Luke Moustakas, Mitch Mascari and Byron Alexander - all with healthy starting and playing experience. Trey Moala, Jack Ratigan and Blake Danitschek also saw healthy minutes as underclassmen this past season.

Keeley can't be McCollum the sequel. No one can. However, Keeley promises he will bring his own style and personality to the job, saying the team will play "fast."

"I'm not Coach McCollum," he said. "My personality and play style and all of that stuff is absolutely going to come through, and we'll embrace that."

"'Fast' is, faithful, assertive, selfless and tough. We feel like when things are going well, those things are in a line. If something is off, we can usually find one of the four that we need to go and fix."

Keeley calls Northwest a "no-brainer" job and it's easy to see why. The culture, the trophies, the history, the fan support, the MIAA. It's all there.

But, Keeley was sure to emphasize the value he sees in the community of Maryville. Eerily similar in size and geography to he and his wife Jana's hometown of Great Bend, Kansas.

"We're high school sweethearts from out there. She lived on the west side of town, and I lived on the east side. Ten minutes and three stoplights away. So, the community felt awesome."

&nbsp;- Keeley says Northwest assistant Jaran Richman will remain on staff. This comes after assistant coach Xavier Kurth followed McCollum to Drake.

&nbsp;- Peterson was sure to thank his "search committee," which included assistant A.D. for media relations Colin McDonough, head strength and conditioning coach Joe Quinlin, Mel Tjeerdsma and Northwest Foundation Board member Seann O'Reily.

- Keeley met with each team member individually last Tuesday. He said his biggest challenge in the short term will be to "get the roster to where we want it to be," noting the list of players they're tying to recruit is "not short."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713988365177.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State athletic director Andy Peterson (left) and new Northwest men's basketball coach Matt Keeley at a press conference Wednesday held inside the Harr Athletic Success Center in Maryville. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State athletic director Andy Peterson (left) and new Northwest men's basketball coach Matt Keeley at a press conference Wednesday held inside the Harr Athletic Success Center in Maryville. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMARYVILLE - Matt Keeley started from the ground up when he took over as the head men's basketball coach at Ottawa University in Arizona.Literally. The program didn't exist until he started there in 2017.Seven years, 113 wins, three national tournament berths and two conference titles later, Keeley takes over, arguably, the most structurally sound Division II men's program in the country.Keeley was picked as the 21st coach in the history of Northwest men's basketball on April 13, and officially introduced Wednesday at the Lamkin Activity Center on the Maryville campus.Being Ben McCollum's successor, Keeley says it's McCollum's predecessor, Steve Tappmeyer, who offered some words of wisdom in the early days on the job."(Steve) challenged me to just continue to embrace the greatness that this place is," Keeley said, "and to see it as something you're a part of in the story, and not something you're not trying to come and reinvent. And, I certainly took that to heart."Keeley knows Northwest and the MIAA well enough, even before this job was on his radar. He was an assistant at Washburn from 2007-09 and then at MidAmerica Nazarene from 2009-17.Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson was an assistant on McCollum's staff at Northwest from 2011-17. Peterson says it always 'stuck with him' that the Bearcats and Pioneers seemed to go after the same type of players on the recruiting trail during that time."(Matt) knows the value of the type of student-athletes we're after," Peterson said. "I can't tell you how many kids we recruited against each other on. It seemed, when it came down to the wire of where that kid was going to go, it was Northwest, Washburn and MidAmerica Nazarene. Northwest, UCM, MidAmerica Nazarene."Keeley, a father of four, knows moving a family from the Phoenix metro to Maryville is no small thing. His oldest son, Cade, is a multi-sport athlete coming up through high school.He was the toughest sell, but became more bought in the more he learned about the Bearcats' rich history."Like a coaches' kid, he's processing," Keeley said."He goes, 'D2? Yup, D2. Alright. Are we going to have some more scholarships? Yeah, we'll have some more scholarships up there. Okay.'""He's checking it out.&nbsp; Just thinking it through. 'They pretty good? Yeah, man. They're pretty good.'"Indeed, pretty good. Northwest has won four national titles, all since 2017, to go with 11 consecutive MIAA regular championships and eight MIAA tournament titles in the last nine seasons.Taking over the program that's achieved so much over the last 15 years is no small task. Nor is assembling its roster.McCollum is taking starters Bennett Stirtz, Isaiah Jackson and Daniel Abrieu with him to Drake, but Keeley expressed confidence that the nine other players on roster, for now, seem all in on coming back for the upcoming season.That includes Luke Moustakas, Mitch Mascari and Byron Alexander - all with healthy starting and playing experience. Trey Moala, Jack Ratigan and Blake Danitschek also saw healthy minutes as underclassmen this past season.Keeley can't be McCollum the sequel. No one can. However, Keeley promises he will bring his own style and personality to the job, saying the team will play "fast."Both in tempo and in work ethic."I'm not Coach McCollum," he said. "My personality and play style and all of that stuff is absolutely going to come through, and we'll embrace that.""'Fast' is, faithful, assertive, selfless and tough. We feel like when things are going well, those things are in a line. If something is off, we can usually find one of the four that we need to go and fix."Keeley calls Northwest a "no-brainer" job and it's easy to see why. The culture, the trophies, the history, the fan support, the MIAA. It's all there.But, Keeley was sure to emphasize the value he sees in the community of Maryville. Eerily similar in size and geography to he and his wife Jana's hometown of Great Bend, Kansas."We're high school sweethearts from out there. She lived on the west side of town, and I lived on the east side. Ten minutes and three stoplights away. So, the community felt awesome."Other news and notes&nbsp;- Keeley says Northwest assistant Jaran Richman will remain on staff. This comes after assistant coach Xavier Kurth followed McCollum to Drake.&nbsp;- Peterson was sure to thank his "search committee," which included assistant A.D. for media relations Colin McDonough, head strength and conditioning coach Joe Quinlin, Mel Tjeerdsma and Northwest Foundation Board member Seann O'Reily.- Keeley met with each team member individually last Tuesday. He said his biggest challenge in the short term will be to "get the roster to where we want it to be," noting the list of players they're tying to recruit is "not short."Full audio<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Matt-Keeley---full-press-conference-e2iraam" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Photos<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713990561097.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713990603795.jpeg" alt="Andy Peterson (left), Matt Keeley (center) and Northwest president Dr. Lance Tatum (right)." />
 <figcaption>Andy Peterson (left), Matt Keeley (center) and Northwest president Dr. Lance Tatum (right).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Matt Keeley looks to 'embrace greatness' as new Northwest men's basketball coach

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. delivered the go-ahead double in the fifth inning for Kansas City after a costly error by Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the Royals' bullpen shut down Toronto the rest of the way in a 3-2 victory Tuesday night.

Chris Stratton (2-1) minimized the damage when he inherited a bases-loaded jam from Michael Wacha in the fifth. He also took care of the sixth before John Schreiber handled the seventh and James McArthur breezed through the eighth.

Royals manager Matt Quatraro opted to send McArthur back out for the ninth, and the Blue Jays' Cavan Biggio appeared to begin the inning by beating out a single, only for the call to be overturned upon review. George Springer followed with a single and went to second on Guerrero's groundout, but McArthur got Bo Bichette to ground out to finish off his fifth save of the season.

Kevin Gausman (0-3) allowed three runs — none of them earned — on seven hits and a walk over 6 2/3 innings for Toronto.

Wacha allowed two runs on eight hits and three walks, but he needed 96 pitches to get through 4 1/3 innings. He was plenty erratic — Wacha plunked Davis Schneider to load the bases in the fifth — but he also was victimized by some bad luck, including a series of weakly hit singles that the Blue Jays turned into a 1-0 lead in the third.

After Wacha left with the bases loaded in the fifth, Alejandro Kirk's sacrifice fly gave the Blue Jays a 2-0 lead.

The Royals' comeback in the bottom of the fifth began with a blunder: Adam Frazier was caught in a rundown between third base and home for the second out of the inning. But he stayed alive long enough for Michael Massey to reach second base, and moments later, Guerrero allowed the throw for what should have been the final out of the inning to go right past him.

Massey came around to score, Maikel Garcia followed with a base hit and Witt's double to left gave Kansas City a 3-2 lead.

The Royals nearly added to that advantage in the seventh, when Garcia drew a two-out walk and Witt singled for his third hit of the night. Vinnie Pasquantino then hammered a pitch from Nate Pearson, but it skirted outside the foul pole in right field, and the Toronto reliever proceeded to strike him out to end the threat.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays 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/2024/4/1713926914717.jpeg" alt="Toronto Blue Jays' George Springer (4) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia to advance to third on a single by Bo Bichette during the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Toronto Blue Jays' George Springer (4) beats the tag by Kansas City Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia to advance to third on a single by Bo Bichette during the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. delivered the go-ahead double in the fifth inning for Kansas City after a costly error by Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the Royals' bullpen shut down Toronto the rest of the way in a 3-2 victory Tuesday night.Chris Stratton (2-1) minimized the damage when he inherited a bases-loaded jam from Michael Wacha in the fifth. He also took care of the sixth before John Schreiber handled the seventh and James McArthur breezed through the eighth.Royals manager Matt Quatraro opted to send McArthur back out for the ninth, and the Blue Jays' Cavan Biggio appeared to begin the inning by beating out a single, only for the call to be overturned upon review. George Springer followed with a single and went to second on Guerrero's groundout, but McArthur got Bo Bichette to ground out to finish off his fifth save of the season.Kevin Gausman (0-3) allowed three runs — none of them earned — on seven hits and a walk over 6 2/3 innings for Toronto.Wacha allowed two runs on eight hits and three walks, but he needed 96 pitches to get through 4 1/3 innings. He was plenty erratic — Wacha plunked Davis Schneider to load the bases in the fifth — but he also was victimized by some bad luck, including a series of weakly hit singles that the Blue Jays turned into a 1-0 lead in the third.After Wacha left with the bases loaded in the fifth, Alejandro Kirk's sacrifice fly gave the Blue Jays a 2-0 lead.The Royals' comeback in the bottom of the fifth began with a blunder: Adam Frazier was caught in a rundown between third base and home for the second out of the inning. But he stayed alive long enough for Michael Massey to reach second base, and moments later, Guerrero allowed the throw for what should have been the final out of the inning to go right past him.Massey came around to score, Maikel Garcia followed with a base hit and Witt's double to left gave Kansas City a 3-2 lead.The Royals nearly added to that advantage in the seventh, when Garcia drew a two-out walk and Witt singled for his third hit of the night. Vinnie Pasquantino then hammered a pitch from Nate Pearson, but it skirted outside the foul pole in right field, and the Toronto reliever proceeded to strike him out to end the threat.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Witt's 2-run double after a costly Blue Jays error sends Kansas City to a 3-2 win over Toronto

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bo Bichette had a bases-clearing triple, Daulton Varsho hit a two-run homer and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3 on Monday night.

The Jays have won seven of nine. The Royals lost their third straight at home after winning their previous nine at Kauffman Stadium.

Yusei Kikuchi (2-1) was efficient early, allowing one baserunner on 48 pitches in the first five innings.

He ran into trouble in the sixth, allowing a two-run home run by Maikel Garcia. With two outs, Vinnie Pasquantino hit an infield single and Salvador Perez followed with a double. But Kikuchi retired Nelson Velázquez on a grounder to end the threat.

Right-hander Tyler Duffey, whose contract was selected from Triple-A Omaha earlier Monday, worked two scoreless innings in relief, striking out three. Jordan Romano surrendered a homer by Kyle Isbel in the ninth but finished for his third save.

Brady Singer (2-1) allowed five runs on five hits in six innings. He struck out five and walked three, all of whom scored.

Singer struck out the first two Toronto batters in the second inning, becoming the 19th Royals pitcher to reach 500 career strikeouts. He tied Steve Busby as the fastest Royals pitcher to achieve the milestone, getting there in his 100th appearance.

Singer issued two walks in the third that cost him. His free pass to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. loaded the bases, and Bichette lined a triple off the glove of center fielder Garrett Hampson to score three runs.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Tuesday 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/2024/4/1713839444810.jpeg" alt="Toronto Blue Jays' Bo Bichette watches his three-run triple during the third inning of a baseball game Monday, April 22, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Toronto Blue Jays' Bo Bichette watches his three-run triple during the third inning of a baseball game Monday, April 22, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bo Bichette had a bases-clearing triple, Daulton Varsho hit a two-run homer and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 5-3 on Monday night.The Jays have won seven of nine. The Royals lost their third straight at home after winning their previous nine at Kauffman Stadium.Yusei Kikuchi (2-1) was efficient early, allowing one baserunner on 48 pitches in the first five innings.He ran into trouble in the sixth, allowing a two-run home run by Maikel Garcia. With two outs, Vinnie Pasquantino hit an infield single and Salvador Perez followed with a double. But Kikuchi retired Nelson Velázquez on a grounder to end the threat.Right-hander Tyler Duffey, whose contract was selected from Triple-A Omaha earlier Monday, worked two scoreless innings in relief, striking out three. Jordan Romano surrendered a homer by Kyle Isbel in the ninth but finished for his third save.Brady Singer (2-1) allowed five runs on five hits in six innings. He struck out five and walked three, all of whom scored.Singer struck out the first two Toronto batters in the second inning, becoming the 19th Royals pitcher to reach 500 career strikeouts. He tied Steve Busby as the fastest Royals pitcher to achieve the milestone, getting there in his 100th appearance.Singer issued two walks in the third that cost him. His free pass to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. loaded the bases, and Bichette lined a triple off the glove of center fielder Garrett Hampson to score three runs.Varsho's homer in the sixth made it 5-0.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Coverage begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.

Bo Bichette has 3-run triple, Yusei Kikuchi solid as Blue Jays beat Royals 5-3 for 7th win in 9

Ashton Feldhaus grew up in Richmond, Kentucky, surrounded by basketball and coaching royalty.

Her father, Allen Feldhaus Jr., has been the head boys' basketball coach at Madison Central High School in Richmond for 31 years, amassing over 700 career wins in that time.

Ashton's mother, Karen, is the head cheer coach at Madison Central, and has been for over three decades. She's led the Indians to 11 state titles and a&nbsp;Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championship in the small varsity division in 2021.

Her uncle, Deron, is a Kentucky Wildcat legend, who played on a 1991-92 team known as the "Unforgettables."

So, when Ashton got the offer to become the next head women's basketball coach at Missouri Western State University, she felt more than ready.

"I grew up watching two coaches," Feldhaus said. "I knew I wanted to do it. I also knew I didn't want to be a teacher. College athletics was the way for me to go, so I didn't have to teach. Now, I will just teach the game of basketball to these amazing young women."

Feldhaus, 28, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5bb78909-68af-47c7-b40a-aca3ca00db7d">was picked as the Griffons' 10th women's basketball coach</a> on April 15. She was formally introduced at a press conference at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph on Monday.

Feldhaus comes to Western after a vastly successful stint at Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida.

She spent the last five seasons with the Tritons as an assistant coach, including the last two years as the associate head coach. Feldhaus helped Eckerd to an NCAA tournament bid in each of her five years there, working under longtime head coach Paul Honsinger.

"I feel fully prepared to be standing here in front of you, ready to lead this (Missouri Western) team, but know for certain I could not be here without (Paul)," Feldhaus said of her former boss. "So, I hope he knows how grateful I am. I feel forever indebted to him for starting my career."

The Tritons posted a 91-28 overall record in Feldhaus' five years there.

 Missouri Western, under Candi Whitaker, went 100-47 in exact that same span, winning a Central region title (2022) and an MIAA regular season title (2024) along the way.

"For me, I see nothing but excitement and opportunity," Feldhaus said, noting Western's proud history in women's hoops. "I'm ready to take a bar that's already set high and a team that's already won rings and win more. That is the goal and I do not shy away from that."

Feldhaus will turn 29 this June. Having played at both Butler and UT-Martin, she&nbsp;was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual 'Thirty Under 30' Class this past March.

Her energy, her vision, her credentials, matched what Missouri Western's leadership was seeking.

"Energetic, confident, prepared," Carter said of Feldhaus, recalling his first meeting with her. "Sometimes, when you talk to a group of assistant coaches, you walk out and say, 'that's why they're assistant coaches. They don't think as a head coach.'"

"It's clear Ashton already sees herself in that role."

Carter says over 150 people applied to the job after <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">Whitaker announced her departure for North Alabama</a> on March 25.

That field was narrowed to six finalists on April 2 and then to three by April 8. Feldhaus was chosen a week later.

"There were probably 30-40 coaches in that search process that could do a really good job, but we wanted to find the person who was the very best fit for Missouri Western and our culture and where we're going and the things we want to accomplish."

Feldhaus had a brief practice and meeting with the team on Sunday evening at MWSU Fieldhouse. The players will take their final exams this week, and then go home for summer break.

Missouri Western just graduated six seniors. The Griffons have nine players on roster that would be eligible to come back.

In this transfer portal era of college basketball, it's near impossible to tell who's going to end up where when the dust settles.

Regardless, Feldhaus is eager to attack this challenge before her, knowing that she can relate to the challenges players are facing today.

She was a college player herself only six years ago.

"It's awkward, at first, to be honest," Feldhaus said of the transition. "You're trying to get to know them, they're trying to get to know you. I told them, 'Guys, it's going to take time. Relationship building takes time.'"

"But, I'm invested in it and here now, so we're going to do it, and I laid it out for them. I hope they're as excited as I am, because I thought they've been fantastic up to this point."

All nine players who are eligible to return were present Monday. Feldhaus will meet with each player individually in the coming days.

 Sophomore forward Kassandra Caron says the new coach is very matter-of-fact and driven to win, but also empathizes with what players are going through on and off the court.

"She talked about her experiences as a college athlete," Caron said. "She said, 'I want to make it enjoyable for you.'" It's nice to have someone who's been through it recently. They understand and know how hard it is to balance those academics and athletics while traveling."

Freshman guard, Benton graduate and St. Joseph native Kelsey Johnson was also impressed with the energy Feldhaus has brought.

"She brought so much energy," Johnson said. "It was her first time out there coaching us, and she brought that drive for us. I think it'll be a great next couple years for us."

"She's young, but she knows what she's talking about and she's confident. We love the way she coaches, so I'm excited."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713817553632.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter (left), women's basketball coach Ashton Feldhaus (center) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right). Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter (left), women's basketball coach Ashton Feldhaus (center) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right). Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAshton Feldhaus grew up in Richmond, Kentucky, surrounded by basketball and coaching royalty.Her father, Allen Feldhaus Jr., has been the head boys' basketball coach at Madison Central High School in Richmond for 31 years, amassing over 700 career wins in that time.Ashton's mother, Karen, is the head cheer coach at Madison Central, and has been for over three decades. She's led the Indians to 11 state titles and a&nbsp;Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championship in the small varsity division in 2021.Her uncle, Deron, is a Kentucky Wildcat legend, who played on a 1991-92 team known as the "Unforgettables."So, when Ashton got the offer to become the next head women's basketball coach at Missouri Western State University, she felt more than ready."I grew up watching two coaches," Feldhaus said. "I knew I wanted to do it. I also knew I didn't want to be a teacher. College athletics was the way for me to go, so I didn't have to teach. Now, I will just teach the game of basketball to these amazing young women."Feldhaus, 28, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5bb78909-68af-47c7-b40a-aca3ca00db7d">was picked as the Griffons' 10th women's basketball coach</a> on April 15. She was formally introduced at a press conference at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph on Monday.Feldhaus comes to Western after a vastly successful stint at Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida.She spent the last five seasons with the Tritons as an assistant coach, including the last two years as the associate head coach. Feldhaus helped Eckerd to an NCAA tournament bid in each of her five years there, working under longtime head coach Paul Honsinger."I feel fully prepared to be standing here in front of you, ready to lead this (Missouri Western) team, but know for certain I could not be here without (Paul)," Feldhaus said of her former boss. "So, I hope he knows how grateful I am. I feel forever indebted to him for starting my career."The Tritons posted a 91-28 overall record in Feldhaus' five years there. Missouri Western, under Candi Whitaker, went 100-47 in exact that same span, winning a Central region title (2022) and an MIAA regular season title (2024) along the way."For me, I see nothing but excitement and opportunity," Feldhaus said, noting Western's proud history in women's hoops. "I'm ready to take a bar that's already set high and a team that's already won rings and win more. That is the goal and I do not shy away from that."Feldhaus will turn 29 this June. Having played at both Butler and UT-Martin, she&nbsp;was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual 'Thirty Under 30' Class this past March.Her energy, her vision, her credentials, matched what Missouri Western's leadership was seeking."Energetic, confident, prepared," Carter said of Feldhaus, recalling his first meeting with her. "Sometimes, when you talk to a group of assistant coaches, you walk out and say, 'that's why they're assistant coaches. They don't think as a head coach.'""It's clear Ashton already sees herself in that role."Carter says over 150 people applied to the job after <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">Whitaker announced her departure for North Alabama</a> on March 25.That field was narrowed to six finalists on April 2 and then to three by April 8. Feldhaus was chosen a week later."There were probably 30-40 coaches in that search process that could do a really good job, but we wanted to find the person who was the very best fit for Missouri Western and our culture and where we're going and the things we want to accomplish."Feldhaus had a brief practice and meeting with the team on Sunday evening at MWSU Fieldhouse. The players will take their final exams this week, and then go home for summer break.Missouri Western just graduated six seniors. The Griffons have nine players on roster that would be eligible to come back.In this transfer portal era of college basketball, it's near impossible to tell who's going to end up where when the dust settles.Regardless, Feldhaus is eager to attack this challenge before her, knowing that she can relate to the challenges players are facing today.She was a college player herself only six years ago."It's awkward, at first, to be honest," Feldhaus said of the transition. "You're trying to get to know them, they're trying to get to know you. I told them, 'Guys, it's going to take time. Relationship building takes time.'""But, I'm invested in it and here now, so we're going to do it, and I laid it out for them. I hope they're as excited as I am, because I thought they've been fantastic up to this point."Players' reactionAll nine players who are eligible to return were present Monday. Feldhaus will meet with each player individually in the coming days. Sophomore forward Kassandra Caron says the new coach is very matter-of-fact and driven to win, but also empathizes with what players are going through on and off the court."She talked about her experiences as a college athlete," Caron said. "She said, 'I want to make it enjoyable for you.'" It's nice to have someone who's been through it recently. They understand and know how hard it is to balance those academics and athletics while traveling."Freshman guard, Benton graduate and St. Joseph native Kelsey Johnson was also impressed with the energy Feldhaus has brought."She brought so much energy," Johnson said. "It was her first time out there coaching us, and she brought that drive for us. I think it'll be a great next couple years for us.""She's young, but she knows what she's talking about and she's confident. We love the way she coaches, so I'm excited."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🏀 “You know when you’re time’s right.” Join us today as we introduce new <a href="https://twitter.com/GriffonWBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GriffonWBB</a> head coach Ashton Feldhaus. The press conference is open to the public. 📍 - Spratt Stadium HOF Room 🕛 - 12pm 📺 - <a href="https://t.co/cuwsLMy4qt">https://t.co/cuwsLMy4qt</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GriffUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GriffUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/oNx7kRWpU7">pic.twitter.com/oNx7kRWpU7</a>&mdash; Missouri Western Athletics (@MWSUGriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/MWSUGriffons/status/1782420631306297441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Audio from Monday<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Ashton-Feldhaus---FULL-press-conference-e2invd7/a-ab6p4k0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Ashton-Feldhaus---1x1-media-session-e2invfe/a-ab6p4o8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Kelsey-Johnson--Kassandra-Caron-e2invh4/a-ab6p4rm" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713820011834.jpeg" alt="Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Feldhaus 'fully prepared' to be Missouri Western's women's basketball coach

Longtime St. Joseph resident and historian, Bob Slater, has
been honored by the Kansas City Royals, which named Slater a Buck O’Neil Legacy
Seat recipient.

Slater, a former reporter for the St. Joseph News Press and
Vice President of the then-St. Joseph Light and Power Company, was honored
Sunday for his numerous volunteer activities throughout the years.

You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLongtime St. Joseph resident and historian, Bob Slater, has
been honored by the Kansas City Royals, which named Slater a Buck O’Neil Legacy
Seat recipient.Slater, a former reporter for the St. Joseph News Press and
Vice President of the then-St. Joseph Light and Power Company, was honored
Sunday for his numerous volunteer activities throughout the years.You can follow Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Slater honored at Royals game with Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Colton Cowser and Jordan Westburg hit back-to-back homers for Baltimore off Royals starter Seth Lugo, who had not allowed a home run since last September, and the Orioles went on to beat Kansas City 5-0 on Sunday.

Cole Irvin (1-1) scattered four hits and two walks in 6 2/3 innings for Baltimore. He stranded a runner on third in the first inning and another at second base in the fifth while earning his first win since beating the Royals on June 10, 2023.

“Just a quality team game,” Irvin said. “Felt like we did all the little things right today.”

The Royals were shut out for the first time this season after they were blanked 15 times last year.

Lugo (3-1) had pushed his streak of not allowing a homer to 41 1/3 innings before Cowser sent an 0-1 pitch soaring into the right-field fountains leading off the third. Westburg followed two pitches later with his drive into the left-field seats.

Cowser's splash came one day after he mistakenly threw the souvenir ball from Craig Kimbrell's 422nd save into the fountains while celebrating the Orioles' 9-7 win. The save tied Kimbrell for seventh on the career list, so Cowser ran back to the field after the game and managed to fish the ball out of the water with the help of some stadium staff.

“We prefer he hit one into the fountains,” Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said, “than throw one in the fountains.”

Lugo, who had allowed three runs in 25 2/3 innings, was dinged for four runs, nine hits and a walk in 5 1/3 innings Sunday.

Ryan Mountcastle added an RBI double and Westburg walked with the bases loaded to make it 4-0 in the sixth. Ryan O'Hearn drove in a run with an infield single in the eighth to help Baltimore pull away.

The Royals tried to rally in the eighth, putting runners at the corners with one out. But Danny Coulombe froze Salvador Perez with a pitch on the inside corner, then struck out Nelson Velázquez to end the inning.

“We didn't get much going,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “We had a couple of chances there where we didn't capitalize. When a team shuts you out, you have to tip your cap.”

Royals LHP Jake Brentz (hamstring) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha. He last appeared in a game for Kansas City on April 29, 2022, before undergoing Tommy John surgery. Brentz hurt his hamstring during a spring training game in March and had been throwing in Arizona.

The Royals continue a seven-game homestand Monday night against Toronto with RHP Brady Singer (2-0, 1.54 ERA) on the mound.&nbsp; First pitch at 6:40pm with pregame at 6 on KFEQ.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Colton Cowser and Jordan Westburg hit back-to-back homers for Baltimore off Royals starter Seth Lugo, who had not allowed a home run since last September, and the Orioles went on to beat Kansas City 5-0 on Sunday.Cole Irvin (1-1) scattered four hits and two walks in 6 2/3 innings for Baltimore. He stranded a runner on third in the first inning and another at second base in the fifth while earning his first win since beating the Royals on June 10, 2023.“Just a quality team game,” Irvin said. “Felt like we did all the little things right today.”The Royals were shut out for the first time this season after they were blanked 15 times last year.Lugo (3-1) had pushed his streak of not allowing a homer to 41 1/3 innings before Cowser sent an 0-1 pitch soaring into the right-field fountains leading off the third. Westburg followed two pitches later with his drive into the left-field seats.Cowser's splash came one day after he mistakenly threw the souvenir ball from Craig Kimbrell's 422nd save into the fountains while celebrating the Orioles' 9-7 win. The save tied Kimbrell for seventh on the career list, so Cowser ran back to the field after the game and managed to fish the ball out of the water with the help of some stadium staff.“We prefer he hit one into the fountains,” Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said, “than throw one in the fountains.”Lugo, who had allowed three runs in 25 2/3 innings, was dinged for four runs, nine hits and a walk in 5 1/3 innings Sunday.Ryan Mountcastle added an RBI double and Westburg walked with the bases loaded to make it 4-0 in the sixth. Ryan O'Hearn drove in a run with an infield single in the eighth to help Baltimore pull away.The Royals tried to rally in the eighth, putting runners at the corners with one out. But Danny Coulombe froze Salvador Perez with a pitch on the inside corner, then struck out Nelson Velázquez to end the inning.The Royals were shut out for the first time this season after they were blanked 15 times last year.“We didn't get much going,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “We had a couple of chances there where we didn't capitalize. When a team shuts you out, you have to tip your cap.”TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals LHP Jake Brentz (hamstring) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Omaha. He last appeared in a game for Kansas City on April 29, 2022, before undergoing Tommy John surgery. Brentz hurt his hamstring during a spring training game in March and had been throwing in Arizona.UP NEXTThe Royals continue a seven-game homestand Monday night against Toronto with RHP Brady Singer (2-0, 1.54 ERA) on the mound.&nbsp; First pitch at 6:40pm with pregame at 6 on KFEQ.

Colton Cowser and Jordan Westburg hit back-to-back homers, helping the Orioles beat the Royals 5-0

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Craig Kimbrel tied Billy Wagner for seventh on the career list with his 422nd save, Anthony Santander had the first three-double game of his major league career and the Baltimore Orioles rode a seven-run second inning to a 9-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.

Salvador Perez tied his career high with five RBIs for the Royals, who tried to overcome a 7-0 deficit, and hit a game-ending flyout to Colton Cowser in front of the left-field warning track.

Kimbrel pitched a perfect ninth for his fifth save in six chances this year as the Orioles evened the three-game series. He is two saves behind John Franco on the career list and three back of Kenley Jansen.

Santander sprinted in to make a diving catch on Bobby Witt Jr's flare into short right field starting the ninth.

Corbin Burnes (3-0) pitched shutout ball until allowing Perez's three-run homer in the sixth, Perez's sixth home run this season. Burnes allowed four hits in 5 2/3 innings with four strikeouts and a walk.

Perez added a two-run single in a four-run seventh.

Cole Ragans (0-2) allowed seven runs and nine hits in 1 2/3 innings, Kansas City's shortest start this season.

Baltimore tied its season high with 15 hits, including eight with two strikes. Every Orioles starter had a hit.

Left fielder Austin Hays left after six innings because of calf tightness.

Ramón Urías hit an RBI double in the first and scored on James McCann's single, Adley Rutschman and Ryan Mouncastle hit run-scoring singles, Santander doubled in a run and Jordan Westburg had a a two-run single.

Kansas City placed RHP Jordan Lyles on the inactive list as he deals with a personal matter and recalled LHP Anthony Veneziano from Triple-A Omaha.

Baltimore LHP Cole Irvin (0-1, 6.75 ERA) goes to the mound and Kansas City sends RHP Seth Lugo (3-0, 1.05) for Sunday’s series finale.&nbsp; Pregame at 12:30pm with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713668530710.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez watches his three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Saturday, April 20, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez watches his three-run home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Saturday, April 20, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Craig Kimbrel tied Billy Wagner for seventh on the career list with his 422nd save, Anthony Santander had the first three-double game of his major league career and the Baltimore Orioles rode a seven-run second inning to a 9-7 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Saturday night.Salvador Perez tied his career high with five RBIs for the Royals, who tried to overcome a 7-0 deficit, and hit a game-ending flyout to Colton Cowser in front of the left-field warning track.Kimbrel pitched a perfect ninth for his fifth save in six chances this year as the Orioles evened the three-game series. He is two saves behind John Franco on the career list and three back of Kenley Jansen.Santander sprinted in to make a diving catch on Bobby Witt Jr's flare into short right field starting the ninth.Corbin Burnes (3-0) pitched shutout ball until allowing Perez's three-run homer in the sixth, Perez's sixth home run this season. Burnes allowed four hits in 5 2/3 innings with four strikeouts and a walk.Perez added a two-run single in a four-run seventh.Cole Ragans (0-2) allowed seven runs and nine hits in 1 2/3 innings, Kansas City's shortest start this season.Baltimore tied its season high with 15 hits, including eight with two strikes. Every Orioles starter had a hit.Left fielder Austin Hays left after six innings because of calf tightness.Ramón Urías hit an RBI double in the first and scored on James McCann's single, Adley Rutschman and Ryan Mouncastle hit run-scoring singles, Santander doubled in a run and Jordan Westburg had a a two-run single.ROSTER MOVESKansas City placed RHP Jordan Lyles on the inactive list as he deals with a personal matter and recalled LHP Anthony Veneziano from Triple-A Omaha.UP NEXTBaltimore LHP Cole Irvin (0-1, 6.75 ERA) goes to the mound and Kansas City sends RHP Seth Lugo (3-0, 1.05) for Sunday’s series finale.&nbsp; Pregame at 12:30pm with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ.

Kimbrel gets 422nd save, Santander hits 3 doubles and Orioles beat Royals 9-7

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino and MJ Melendez homered to help the Kansas City Royals beat Baltimore 9-4 on Friday night and stop the Orioles' four-game winning streak.

Adley Rutschman hit his first career grand slam for the Orioles, a seventh-inning homer off Will Smith.

Dean Kremer (0-2) retired his first 11 batters before Pasquantino drove a 1-1 splitter into the right-field bullpen for his fourth homer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713581267441.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Nelson Velazquez, left, and Michael Massey celebrate after scoring on a double hit by Hunter Renfroe during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Friday, April 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Nelson Velazquez, left, and Michael Massey celebrate after scoring on a double hit by Hunter Renfroe during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Friday, April 19, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino and MJ Melendez homered to help the Kansas City Royals beat Baltimore 9-4 on Friday night and stop the Orioles' four-game winning streak.Adley Rutschman hit his first career grand slam for the Orioles, a seventh-inning homer off Will Smith.Dean Kremer (0-2) retired his first 11 batters before Pasquantino drove a 1-1 splitter into the right-field bullpen for his fourth homer.MJ Melendez sparked a five-run sixth with an RBI single that ended an 0-for-23 slide. Michael Massey and Hunter Renfroe each had two-run hits for a 6-0 lead.Maikel Garcia stopped an 0-for-26 slide with a leadoff single in the seventh and Melendez hit a three-run homer off Dillon Tate as Kansas City won its ninth straight home game.Alec Marsh (3-0) escaped jams in the first and fourth innings, working around a pair of Rutschman singles. Marsh allowed three hits and two walks, striking out six in 5 2/3 scoreless innings.Kremer allowed three runs, two hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings.The Royals take on the Orioles again Saturday evening with first pitch at 6:10. Coverage begins at 5:30 on 680 KFEQ in St. Joseph.