The Kansas City Royals lost just their second series since the All Star break against the Boston Red Sox, but they avoided being swept for the first time since the end of June, beating the Red Sox 7-3 on Wednesday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;

Boston took the lead first though off Royals starter Michael Wacha in the first inning.&nbsp; With two runners on, Romy Gonzalez doubled to drive in Alex Bregman and Jarren Duran.&nbsp; Kansas City cut the lead to one in the third inning,&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski leading off the inning with a ground rule double and scoring in the very next at bat as Bobby Witt Jr hit an RBI single.&nbsp;

In the fourth inning, the Royals went on to take the lead scoring two runs.&nbsp; Adam Frazier led off the inning getting hit by a pitch, but was caught attempting to steal second.&nbsp; Back to back singles by Jonathan India and John Rave put runner back on however, India moving to third on Rave's single and Rave advancing to second as the right fielder threw to third base.&nbsp; Kyle Isbel gave Kansas City the lead driving in both India and Rave with a two RBI single into center field.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With one out in the seventh inning, the Royals extended their lead as India conquered the Green Monster with a three run home run.&nbsp; After a groundout opened the inning, Salvador Perez and Frazier singled before India sent the ball sailing into left field and onto the monster for his sixth home run of the season, putting Kansas City up 6-2.&nbsp;

The Royals added one more run, and their final run in the eighth inning, Vinnie Pasquantino hitting an RBI single and scoring Tyler Tolbert who pinch ran for Randal Grichuk after Grichuk was hit by a pitch to open the inning, with Tolbert stealing second and third base along the way before scoring.&nbsp; In the bottom half, the Red Sox scored their final run, also with an RBI single, Trevor Story driving in Connor Wong off Royals reliever Lucas Erceg.&nbsp;

Wacha earned the win for the Royals, improving to 6-9 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up two runs on five hits while striking out three.&nbsp; At the plate, India was 2-for-4 with the home run and three RBIs, after being moved out of the leadoff spot.&nbsp; Rave and Frazier were also 2-for-4 with a run scored, while&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 2-for-3 with a double.

Kansas City is off on Thursday, traveling to Minnesota on Friday to wrap up their nine game road trip.&nbsp; Seth Lugo (8-5, 3.06 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals on Friday against Joe Ryan (10-5, 2.83 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10pm, pregame coverage beginning at 6:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals lost just their second series since the All Star break against the Boston Red Sox, but they avoided being swept for the first time since the end of June, beating the Red Sox 7-3 on Wednesday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;Boston took the lead first though off Royals starter Michael Wacha in the first inning.&nbsp; With two runners on, Romy Gonzalez doubled to drive in Alex Bregman and Jarren Duran.&nbsp; Kansas City cut the lead to one in the third inning,&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski leading off the inning with a ground rule double and scoring in the very next at bat as Bobby Witt Jr hit an RBI single.&nbsp;In the fourth inning, the Royals went on to take the lead scoring two runs.&nbsp; Adam Frazier led off the inning getting hit by a pitch, but was caught attempting to steal second.&nbsp; Back to back singles by Jonathan India and John Rave put runner back on however, India moving to third on Rave's single and Rave advancing to second as the right fielder threw to third base.&nbsp; Kyle Isbel gave Kansas City the lead driving in both India and Rave with a two RBI single into center field.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Go ahead, Izzy! <a href="https://t.co/EypdWEYu7u">pic.twitter.com/EypdWEYu7u</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1953252183463608425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>With one out in the seventh inning, the Royals extended their lead as India conquered the Green Monster with a three run home run.&nbsp; After a groundout opened the inning, Salvador Perez and Frazier singled before India sent the ball sailing into left field and onto the monster for his sixth home run of the season, putting Kansas City up 6-2.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indy conquers the monster. 💪 <a href="https://t.co/PhqAXLaoeJ">pic.twitter.com/PhqAXLaoeJ</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1953262545181274468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Royals added one more run, and their final run in the eighth inning, Vinnie Pasquantino hitting an RBI single and scoring Tyler Tolbert who pinch ran for Randal Grichuk after Grichuk was hit by a pitch to open the inning, with Tolbert stealing second and third base along the way before scoring.&nbsp; In the bottom half, the Red Sox scored their final run, also with an RBI single, Trevor Story driving in Connor Wong off Royals reliever Lucas Erceg.&nbsp;Wacha earned the win for the Royals, improving to 6-9 on the season, pitching six innings and giving up two runs on five hits while striking out three.&nbsp; At the plate, India was 2-for-4 with the home run and three RBIs, after being moved out of the leadoff spot.&nbsp; Rave and Frazier were also 2-for-4 with a run scored, while&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 2-for-3 with a double.Kansas City is off on Thursday, traveling to Minnesota on Friday to wrap up their nine game road trip.&nbsp; Seth Lugo (8-5, 3.06 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals on Friday against Joe Ryan (10-5, 2.83 ERA) for the Twins.&nbsp; First pitch is at 7:10pm, pregame coverage beginning at 6:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India homers to help Royals avoid sweep in 7-3 win over Red Sox

Storms sent fans home early and forced the Kansas City Chiefs into the Griffons indoor sports complex for practice today.  

After questions of if he would retire following last year's Super Bowl loss, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is back in St. Joseph with the Chiefs for a 13th year.  

Kelce says what juices him up more than anything is to see the way the Chiefs program has grown through those 13 years 

"The fact that we have created this culture, we have created this machine that when you do it the right way it works and you get to win football games because of it," Kelce tells reporters following practice.  "And I think that alone kind of gives you the excitement that what we're doing here is special." 

All those years, except for one, Chiefs Training Camp has been held in St. Joseph which Kelce has referred to in the past as his sanctuary, and he says that's still the case.  

"I love it here, it gets me away from everything else that's going on in this crazy world and I think you can really just focus in on your craft and focus in on being the best you can for the guys around you," Kelce explains.  "Football's always been the biggest driving force I've ever had so I love coming out here and focusing on this and getting better for another run at hopefully another Super Bowl." 

Kelce has said on his podcast 'New Heights' that when in St. Joseph it's all about football and people can't even get ahold of him.  

Coming into Chiefs Training Camp last season, running back Carson Steele was looking to make an impact wherever he could.   

Head Coach Andy Reid possibly viewed Steele as a fullback, which Steele did begin learning, but spent much of last season at running back behind Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt.

Coming into camp this year, Steele says he had a point of emphasis this offseason to continue working on several roles 

"Work a lot more on my fullback role, special teams, as well as keeping the running back side of me," Steele says.  "I kind of talked last year about being a swiss army knife, kind of doing everything, but taking that to the next step this year." 

Steele is listed on the Chiefs first unofficial depth chart as the starting fullback, showing the Chiefs confidence in the growth of his blocking abilities 

The Chiefs continued gearing up for their first preseason game Saturday.  Going into game one, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says his focus is always on tackling and block destruction 

"I'm always going to be preaching guys let's find a way to get off blocks and tackle, the rest will take care of itself, and we'll build from there," Spagnuolo says.  "But if we're not doing that in game one then I'll be concerned you've got to go back to step one, et cetera, et cetera, so those will be big things." 

Kansas City takes on the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday on the road.   

The Chiefs still practiced for just over two hours, even after moving inside.  One more practice this week tomorrow at 9:15, before Saturday's preseason game. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506665049.jpeg" alt="Travis Kelce works on a blocking drill during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Travis Kelce works on a blocking drill during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE Storms sent fans home early and forced the Kansas City Chiefs into the Griffons indoor sports complex for practice today. After questions of if he would retire following last year's Super Bowl loss, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is back in St. Joseph with the Chiefs for a 13th year. Kelce says what juices him up more than anything is to see the way the Chiefs program has grown through those 13 years "The fact that we have created this culture, we have created this machine that when you do it the right way it works and you get to win football games because of it," Kelce tells reporters following practice. "And I think that alone kind of gives you the excitement that what we're doing here is special." All those years, except for one, Chiefs Training Camp has been held in St. Joseph which Kelce has referred to in the past as his sanctuary, and he says that's still the case. "I love it here, it gets me away from everything else that's going on in this crazy world and I think you can really just focus in on your craft and focus in on being the best you can for the guys around you," Kelce explains. "Football's always been the biggest driving force I've ever had so I love coming out here and focusing on this and getting better for another run at hopefully another Super Bowl." Kelce has said on his podcast 'New Heights' that when in St. Joseph it's all about football and people can't even get ahold of him. Coming into Chiefs Training Camp last season, running back Carson Steele was looking to make an impact wherever he could. Head Coach Andy Reid possibly viewed Steele as a fullback, which Steele did begin learning, but spent much of last season at running back behind Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506714872.jpeg" alt="Carson Steele/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Carson Steele/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>Coming into camp this year, Steele says he had a point of emphasis this offseason to continue working on several roles "Work a lot more on my fullback role, special teams, as well as keeping the running back side of me," Steele says. "I kind of talked last year about being a swiss army knife, kind of doing everything, but taking that to the next step this year." Steele is listed on the Chiefs first unofficial depth chart as the starting fullback, showing the Chiefs confidence in the growth of his blocking abilities The Chiefs continued gearing up for their first preseason game Saturday. Going into game one, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo says his focus is always on tackling and block destruction "I'm always going to be preaching guys let's find a way to get off blocks and tackle, the rest will take care of itself, and we'll build from there," Spagnuolo says. "But if we're not doing that in game one then I'll be concerned you've got to go back to step one, et cetera, et cetera, so those will be big things." Kansas City takes on the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday on the road. The Chiefs still practiced for just over two hours, even after moving inside. One more practice this week tomorrow at 9:15, before Saturday's preseason game. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506747960.jpeg" alt="Travis Kelce catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Travis Kelce catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kelce happy to return to his sanctuary during Chiefs Training Camp

The St. Louis Cardinals kept things close with the Los Angeles Dodgers, until a five run seventh inning helped propel the Dodgers to a big 12-6 win over the Redbirds late Wednesday night on the west coast at Dodger Stadium.&nbsp;

The Dodgers took the lead in the first inning behind a sacrifice fly by Freddie Freeman, driving in Shohei Ohtani, and a solo home run by Max Muncy.&nbsp; But in the second inning, the Cardinals came back to tie up the game thanks to a two run home run by Nolan Gorman, Gorman's 10th home run of the season scoring Willson Contreras after he reached on a fielding error to open the inning.

Los Angeles took the lead back quickly however, scoring three more runs in the third inning.&nbsp; Two runs came on Muncy's second home run of the game, scoring Mookie Betts, and the Dodgers went back to back as&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández followed that with a solo shot of his own, his 17th of the season, giving the Dodgers a 5-2 lead.&nbsp;

The Cardinals cut back into the lead in the top half of the seventh inning, an RBI single by&nbsp;Iván Herrera driving in Gorman after his leadoff single to the inning, but the bottom half saw the Dodgers pull away putting up the five run inning.&nbsp; With two runners on, after walks to Ohtani and Betts, a single by Muncy scored Ohtani for the first run.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hernández extended the lead with his second home run of the game, bringing home Betts and Muncy, with a three run blast before Alex Freeland drove in the final run of the inning with an RBI single, bringing home Andy Pages who hit a two out double.

Contreras hit a solo home run in the eighth inning for the Cardinals, but again in the bottom half of the inning Los Angeles added the final two runs on a sacrifice fly by Freeman, scoring Ohtani, and an RBI single from Michael Conforto driving in Betts.&nbsp; With the bases loaded in the ninth inning, St. Louis scored their final two runs, Yohel Pozo scoring on a wild pitch and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese being driven in by an Alec Burleson sacrifice fly.&nbsp;

Miles Mikolas took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 6-9 on the year, pitching three innings and giving up five runs on seven hits while striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; At the plate, Gorman and Contreras were each 2-for-4 with a home run, Gorman driving in two runs and Contreras driving in one.&nbsp; Herrera was 1-for-4 with a walk and an RBI.&nbsp;

St. Louis and Los Angeles wrap up their series on Wednesday as the Redbirds end their west coast road trip.&nbsp; Matthew Liberatore (6-9, 3.96 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Shohei Ohtani (0-0. 2.40 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, coverage will begin around 3 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;

By MATT PIKEThe St. Louis Cardinals kept things close with the Los Angeles Dodgers, until a five run seventh inning helped propel the Dodgers to a big 12-6 win over the Redbirds late Wednesday night on the west coast at Dodger Stadium.&nbsp;The Dodgers took the lead in the first inning behind a sacrifice fly by Freddie Freeman, driving in Shohei Ohtani, and a solo home run by Max Muncy.&nbsp; But in the second inning, the Cardinals came back to tie up the game thanks to a two run home run by Nolan Gorman, Gorman's 10th home run of the season scoring Willson Contreras after he reached on a fielding error to open the inning.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">GORM 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/HeSF1Itrgl">pic.twitter.com/HeSF1Itrgl</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1952921733767332266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Los Angeles took the lead back quickly however, scoring three more runs in the third inning.&nbsp; Two runs came on Muncy's second home run of the game, scoring Mookie Betts, and the Dodgers went back to back as&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández followed that with a solo shot of his own, his 17th of the season, giving the Dodgers a 5-2 lead.&nbsp;The Cardinals cut back into the lead in the top half of the seventh inning, an RBI single by&nbsp;Iván Herrera driving in Gorman after his leadoff single to the inning, but the bottom half saw the Dodgers pull away putting up the five run inning.&nbsp; With two runners on, after walks to Ohtani and Betts, a single by Muncy scored Ohtani for the first run.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hernández extended the lead with his second home run of the game, bringing home Betts and Muncy, with a three run blast before Alex Freeland drove in the final run of the inning with an RBI single, bringing home Andy Pages who hit a two out double.Contreras hit a solo home run in the eighth inning for the Cardinals, but again in the bottom half of the inning Los Angeles added the final two runs on a sacrifice fly by Freeman, scoring Ohtani, and an RBI single from Michael Conforto driving in Betts.&nbsp; With the bases loaded in the ninth inning, St. Louis scored their final two runs, Yohel Pozo scoring on a wild pitch and&nbsp;Thomas Saggese being driven in by an Alec Burleson sacrifice fly.&nbsp;Miles Mikolas took the loss for the Cardinals, falling to 6-9 on the year, pitching three innings and giving up five runs on seven hits while striking out one and walking one.&nbsp; At the plate, Gorman and Contreras were each 2-for-4 with a home run, Gorman driving in two runs and Contreras driving in one.&nbsp; Herrera was 1-for-4 with a walk and an RBI.&nbsp;St. Louis and Los Angeles wrap up their series on Wednesday as the Redbirds end their west coast road trip.&nbsp; Matthew Liberatore (6-9, 3.96 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Shohei Ohtani (0-0. 2.40 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 3:10pm, coverage will begin around 3 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Big seventh inning propels Dodgers to 12-6 win over Cardinals 

Another acquisition at the MLB trade deadline made his debut for the Kansas City Royals, but despite a solid showing from Ryan Bergert on the mound, the Boston Red Sox stole game two from the Royals winning 6-2 on Tuesday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;

The Red Sox opened the scoring off Bergert in the third inning, Jarren Duran's RBI double driving in Romy Gonzalez following his one out single.&nbsp; In the very next inning, with one out, Bobby Witt Jr tripled and then scored the tying run on an RBI single by Maikel Garcia.&nbsp; Bergert retired the next six batters before he would be pulled in the sixth inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bergert retired the first two batters of the sixth inning, but after walking Alex Bregman was pulled for Angel Zerpa, in favor of the lefty-lefty matchup against Wilyer Abreu.&nbsp; Abreu though doubled, putting two runners in scoring position, and then both scored as Trevor Story singled bringing both home to give Boston the 3-1 lead.&nbsp;

Randal Grichuk doubled for the Royals in the seventh inning, driving in Garcia after his leadoff walk to cut the Red Sox lead to one.&nbsp; But that would be all Kansas City would get, and Boston added three more runs in the bottom half of the inning with Abreu hitting a two RBI single, driving in David Hamilton and Duran, and Story driving in Bregman with another single to end the scoring.&nbsp;

Bergert took the loss, falling to 1-1 on the season, pitching a career high 5 2/3 innings giving up two runs on two hits while striking out two and walking two.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-3 with a double, a walk, and an RBI.&nbsp; Grichuk was 1-for-3 with a double, a walk and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas City and Boston wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (5-9, 3.38 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Dustin May (6-7, 4.85 ERA) making his Red Sox debut after being acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

By MATT PIKEAnother acquisition at the MLB trade deadline made his debut for the Kansas City Royals, but despite a solid showing from Ryan Bergert on the mound, the Boston Red Sox stole game two from the Royals winning 6-2 on Tuesday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;The Red Sox opened the scoring off Bergert in the third inning, Jarren Duran's RBI double driving in Romy Gonzalez following his one out single.&nbsp; In the very next inning, with one out, Bobby Witt Jr tripled and then scored the tying run on an RBI single by Maikel Garcia.&nbsp; Bergert retired the next six batters before he would be pulled in the sixth inning.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Maikel comes through to tie things up. <a href="https://t.co/Csgpi5Rf3T">pic.twitter.com/Csgpi5Rf3T</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1952884466579648764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Bergert retired the first two batters of the sixth inning, but after walking Alex Bregman was pulled for Angel Zerpa, in favor of the lefty-lefty matchup against Wilyer Abreu.&nbsp; Abreu though doubled, putting two runners in scoring position, and then both scored as Trevor Story singled bringing both home to give Boston the 3-1 lead.&nbsp;Randal Grichuk doubled for the Royals in the seventh inning, driving in Garcia after his leadoff walk to cut the Red Sox lead to one.&nbsp; But that would be all Kansas City would get, and Boston added three more runs in the bottom half of the inning with Abreu hitting a two RBI single, driving in David Hamilton and Duran, and Story driving in Bregman with another single to end the scoring.&nbsp;Bergert took the loss, falling to 1-1 on the season, pitching a career high 5 2/3 innings giving up two runs on two hits while striking out two and walking two.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-3 with a double, a walk, and an RBI.&nbsp; Grichuk was 1-for-3 with a double, a walk and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas City and Boston wrap up their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Michael Wacha (5-9, 3.38 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Dustin May (6-7, 4.85 ERA) making his Red Sox debut after being acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite solid debut from Bergert, Royals fall to Red Sox 6-2

A new season of Missouri Tigers football is nearly here.   

With kickoff just three weeks away, the Tigers are currently working through fall camp to prepare for Central Arkansas, still also trying to find their starting quarterback.   

Voice of the Tigers Mike Kelly says it's going to be another good year of Mizzou football with that Eli Drinkwitz brand of exciting offense that fights on the defensive side for four quarters.  

"Last year under Corey Batoon the takeaways were up, I think they’d like to do a better job of rushing and harassing the passer this year which I think they’ve got the opportunity to do with the players they’ve brought in,” Kelly tells the KFEQmunnity show.  “But obviously I think this this is a program that just each year continues to get better and that’s I think what Missouri fans want.” 

A quarterback battle also rages on as the Missouri Tigers prepare for the new football season during fall camp. 

With Brady Cook trying to make his way onto the New York Jets, the Missouri Tigers are looking for their new quarterback, will it be Beau Pribula, Sam Horn, or maybe even freshman Matt Zollars? 

Kelly says it's still too early in fall camp to see a clear winner between either Pribula or Horn, who appear to be the favorites 

"I think both guys have done some good things through the early course of practice,” Kelly says.  “I will tell you this, that it is impressive to see Matt Zollars throw a football, the young man from Pennsylvania has got an absolute rocket.”

The Tigers held their first scrimmage on Monday which  Drinkwitz indicated would give a better look at each guy.   

The Missouri Tigers utilized the transfer portal, adding to their defense this offseason, setting up another good year for the Corey Batoon 'Death Row defense'  

Along with several returning players,  Drinkwitz brought in several players through the transfer portal to help add to an already strong defensive unit 

Kelly says what has steadily improved since Drinkwitz arrived at Mizzou, is not just the quality of the athlete, but the depth at each position.  

"As you look on the defensive side of the ball, I mean Zion Young was terrific, now Zion Young is 6’6” 280 pounds and still running a sub five 40,” Kelly points out.  “Damon Wilson is a guy who has a chance to be a high round draft choice in a couple year opposite Zion Young at one of the defensive end positions.” 

Kelly also credits Drinkwitz for the addition of players like linebacker Josiah Trotter, a transfer from West Virginia, and safety Jalen Catalon, a transfer from UNLV, to add to the depth of defense.  

Missouri first takes the field on August 28th against Central Arkansas.  Missouri football, and also basketball, will again air right here on KFEQ.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754430970974.jpeg" alt="Missouri quarterback Sam Horn works out during fall camp in Columbia/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri quarterback Sam Horn works out during fall camp in Columbia/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou Football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA new season of Missouri Tigers football is nearly here. With kickoff just three weeks away, the Tigers are currently working through fall camp to prepare for Central Arkansas, still also trying to find their starting quarterback. Voice of the Tigers Mike Kelly says it's going to be another good year of Mizzou football with that Eli Drinkwitz brand of exciting offense that fights on the defensive side for four quarters. "Last year under Corey Batoon the takeaways were up, I think they’d like to do a better job of rushing and harassing the passer this year which I think they’ve got the opportunity to do with the players they’ve brought in,” Kelly tells the KFEQmunnity show. “But obviously I think this this is a program that just each year continues to get better and that’s I think what Missouri fans want.” A quarterback battle also rages on as the Missouri Tigers prepare for the new football season during fall camp. With Brady Cook trying to make his way onto the New York Jets, the Missouri Tigers are looking for their new quarterback, will it be Beau Pribula, Sam Horn, or maybe even freshman Matt Zollars? Kelly says it's still too early in fall camp to see a clear winner between either Pribula or Horn, who appear to be the favorites "I think both guys have done some good things through the early course of practice,” Kelly says. “I will tell you this, that it is impressive to see Matt Zollars throw a football, the young man from Pennsylvania has got an absolute rocket.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754430781111.jpeg" alt="Missouri quarterback Matt Zollars celebrates with fellow freshman wide receiver&nbsp;Shaun Terry II during fall camp/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri quarterback Matt Zollars celebrates with fellow freshman wide receiver&nbsp;Shaun Terry II during fall camp/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>The Tigers held their first scrimmage on Monday which Drinkwitz indicated would give a better look at each guy. The Missouri Tigers utilized the transfer portal, adding to their defense this offseason, setting up another good year for the Corey Batoon 'Death Row defense' Along with several returning players, Drinkwitz brought in several players through the transfer portal to help add to an already strong defensive unit Kelly says what has steadily improved since Drinkwitz arrived at Mizzou, is not just the quality of the athlete, but the depth at each position. "As you look on the defensive side of the ball, I mean Zion Young was terrific, now Zion Young is 6’6” 280 pounds and still running a sub five 40,” Kelly points out. “Damon Wilson is a guy who has a chance to be a high round draft choice in a couple year opposite Zion Young at one of the defensive end positions.” Kelly also credits Drinkwitz for the addition of players like linebacker Josiah Trotter, a transfer from West Virginia, and safety Jalen Catalon, a transfer from UNLV, to add to the depth of defense. Missouri first takes the field on August 28th against Central Arkansas. Missouri football, and also basketball, will again air right here on KFEQ. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754431145454.jpeg" alt="Missouri wide receiver Joshua Manning (0) goes up for a catch against&nbsp; Daylan Carnell/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X" />
 <figcaption>Missouri wide receiver Joshua Manning (0) goes up for a catch against&nbsp; Daylan Carnell/ Photo courtesy of Mizzou football on X</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Filled with new faces, Mizzou gearing up for new football season

The Kansas City Chiefs were back at it today after a Monday off day, gearing up for the Arizona Cardinals during practice at Missouri Western State University.  

The Chiefs offense is working to get the explosive, downfield play back this season.  That's something offensive coordinator Matt Nagy felt they hit their stride with during today's practice 

"I really felt like today was one of our, as a group and in particular with Pat, one of our better days with those types of throws, some downfield stuff," Nagy tells reporters after practice.  "Where the timing element, it wasn't one of those deals where you're scrambling throwing the ball away and catching a ball off timing, these were all on timing throws and then guys were making great catches, so I was really pleased with that." 

The Chiefs offense remains without Hollywood Brown who did not practice again today with an ankle injury.   

The Chiefs safety group lost a piece this offseason as veteran safety Justin Reid was not resigned and moved on to the New Orleans Saints.   

Kansas City brought back safety Mike Edwards, who spent last year with Buffalo and Tampa Bay after being with Kansas City in 2023, to add that veteran presence to a young room.

Edwards says the last time he was here; it was Reid that was that leader, but now he feels like it's his responsibility to take on that role 

"Whatever it may be, trying to take on a leadership role," Edwards says.  "You know I feel like everybody can be a leader in that room, but being an older guy, being a vet, trying to take on that role so I can help out the younger guys as much as possible." 

Edwards says he's been impressed with the young safeties in the room like Jaden Hicks and Glendon Miller.  

He also adds there was no question he wanted to come back to Kansas City, because of how well the organization treated him 

Adding to that young core, the Chiefs drafted a rookie class that's very likeable and are becoming fan favorites during Chiefs Training Camp.  

Josh Simmons and Jalen Royals are greeted with cheers each morning coming down the hill.  But another working hard, and being recognized, is fifth round pick linebacker Jeffrey Bassa

Bassa sees himself as a swiss army knife of sorts, and says defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has had him working out all across the defense 

"Really learning both positions, the Mike and the Will, really trying to cross train so when it comes to a situation where he can get me in at either position, I feel like we've been doing a great job at that as well," Bassa says.  "Kind of knowing the fact that I'm learning two positions and now that I'm going to be able to later on in my career learn the back end and learn the full front, I feel like it's going to be a good job and it's going to help me in the long end."  

Bassa also credits leaning on veteran linebackers Drue Tranquill and Nick Bolton in the learning process as guys that have helped ease him into the NFL.  

The Chiefs held another over two-hour practice, a standard at this point in camp.  Kansas City will practice again tomorrow at 9:15. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753213356048.jpeg" alt="Gardner Minshew (17) hands the ball off to Brashard Smith (30) as Patrick Mahomes and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy watch on/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Gardner Minshew (17) hands the ball off to Brashard Smith (30) as Patrick Mahomes and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy watch on/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE The Kansas City Chiefs were back at it today after a Monday off day, gearing up for the Arizona Cardinals during practice at Missouri Western State University. The Chiefs offense is working to get the explosive, downfield play back this season. That's something offensive coordinator Matt Nagy felt they hit their stride with during today's practice "I really felt like today was one of our, as a group and in particular with Pat, one of our better days with those types of throws, some downfield stuff," Nagy tells reporters after practice. "Where the timing element, it wasn't one of those deals where you're scrambling throwing the ball away and catching a ball off timing, these were all on timing throws and then guys were making great catches, so I was really pleased with that." The Chiefs offense remains without Hollywood Brown who did not practice again today with an ankle injury. The Chiefs safety group lost a piece this offseason as veteran safety Justin Reid was not resigned and moved on to the New Orleans Saints. Kansas City brought back safety Mike Edwards, who spent last year with Buffalo and Tampa Bay after being with Kansas City in 2023, to add that veteran presence to a young room.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754429932175.jpeg" alt="Mike Edwards (34) lines up to blitz during a defensive drill during Chiefs Training Camp Photo by Justin Peacock.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Mike Edwards (34) lines up to blitz during a defensive drill during Chiefs Training Camp Photo by Justin Peacock.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Edwards says the last time he was here; it was Reid that was that leader, but now he feels like it's his responsibility to take on that role "Whatever it may be, trying to take on a leadership role," Edwards says. "You know I feel like everybody can be a leader in that room, but being an older guy, being a vet, trying to take on that role so I can help out the younger guys as much as possible." Edwards says he's been impressed with the young safeties in the room like Jaden Hicks and Glendon Miller. He also adds there was no question he wanted to come back to Kansas City, because of how well the organization treated him Adding to that young core, the Chiefs drafted a rookie class that's very likeable and are becoming fan favorites during Chiefs Training Camp. Josh Simmons and Jalen Royals are greeted with cheers each morning coming down the hill. But another working hard, and being recognized, is fifth round pick linebacker Jeffrey Bassa<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754429904720.jpeg" alt="Rookie linebacker Jeffrey Bassa runs a drill during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph Photo by Justin Peacock.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Rookie linebacker Jeffrey Bassa runs a drill during Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph Photo by Justin Peacock.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Bassa sees himself as a swiss army knife of sorts, and says defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has had him working out all across the defense "Really learning both positions, the Mike and the Will, really trying to cross train so when it comes to a situation where he can get me in at either position, I feel like we've been doing a great job at that as well," Bassa says. "Kind of knowing the fact that I'm learning two positions and now that I'm going to be able to later on in my career learn the back end and learn the full front, I feel like it's going to be a good job and it's going to help me in the long end." Bassa also credits leaning on veteran linebackers Drue Tranquill and Nick Bolton in the learning process as guys that have helped ease him into the NFL. The Chiefs held another over two-hour practice, a standard at this point in camp. Kansas City will practice again tomorrow at 9:15. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With first preseason game on the horizon, Chiefs return to practice

Tied at one run a piece, the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers went back and forth in the late innings, but it was the Redbirds getting the pivotal ninth inning run on way to a 3-2 win at Dodger Stadium late Monday night.&nbsp;

The Cardinals and Dodgers exchanged home runs in the early innings to have the game tied at 1-1.&nbsp; In the second inning, Masyn Winn hit his eighth home run of the season to give St. Louis the lead, before Freddie Freeman tied things up in the fourth inning with a solo home run, his 13th of the season.

Sonny Gray earned a no decision despite pitching seven brilliant innings of baseball for the Cardinals.&nbsp; Allowing just the one run and giving up just the one hit, walking one while striking out eight.&nbsp; St. Louis took the lead in the eighth inning after Gray left the game,&nbsp;Iván Herrera hitting his 10th home run of the season.&nbsp; But in the bottom half of the inning the Dodgers again tied up the game on a groundout by Andy Pages, scoring pinch runner&nbsp;Esteury Ruiz, who ran for&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández after his leadoff double.&nbsp;

In the ninth inning, the Cardinals got the clutch run they needed to take the lead again.&nbsp; Willson Contreras led the inning off with a single, and was pinch ran for by Garrett Hampson.&nbsp; Hampson advanced to third base on a single by Lars Nootbaar.&nbsp; With two outs, Yohel Pozo entered the game as a pinch hitter, and as he's done a few times this season, delivered a clutch hit with an RBI single to drive in Hampson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the bottom of the ninth, JoJo Romero came on for the save, giving up a single to Shohei Ohtani.&nbsp; Nootbaar saved the game getting the first out of the inning, making a diving catch in right field for a flyout by Mookie Betts.&nbsp; Romero struck out Freeman for the second out, but walked Will Smith putting two runners on base.&nbsp; Romero earned his second save of the season though getting Max Muncy to line out to Nootbaar to end the game.&nbsp;

Riley O'Brien, blew his first save of the season but also earned the win in relief, his first win of the season, pitching one inning and giving up one run on one hit.&nbsp; At the plate, Herrera was 2-for-4 with the home run and an RBI.&nbsp; Winn was 1-for-3 with a walk, the home run, and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

St. Louis and Los Angeles continue on Tuesday.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (6-8, 4.83 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Emmet Sheehan (2-2, 3.60 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 9:10pm with coverage beginning around 9 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKETied at one run a piece, the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers went back and forth in the late innings, but it was the Redbirds getting the pivotal ninth inning run on way to a 3-2 win at Dodger Stadium late Monday night.&nbsp;The Cardinals and Dodgers exchanged home runs in the early innings to have the game tied at 1-1.&nbsp; In the second inning, Masyn Winn hit his eighth home run of the season to give St. Louis the lead, before Freddie Freeman tied things up in the fourth inning with a solo home run, his 13th of the season.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Masyn is mashing in LA! <a href="https://t.co/g8cqnqwdww">pic.twitter.com/g8cqnqwdww</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1952557784731402529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Sonny Gray earned a no decision despite pitching seven brilliant innings of baseball for the Cardinals.&nbsp; Allowing just the one run and giving up just the one hit, walking one while striking out eight.&nbsp; St. Louis took the lead in the eighth inning after Gray left the game,&nbsp;Iván Herrera hitting his 10th home run of the season.&nbsp; But in the bottom half of the inning the Dodgers again tied up the game on a groundout by Andy Pages, scoring pinch runner&nbsp;Esteury Ruiz, who ran for&nbsp;Teoscar Hernández after his leadoff double.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iván Herrera blasts us into the lead! <a href="https://t.co/LG9kuH1Zkx">pic.twitter.com/LG9kuH1Zkx</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1952580193345814565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the ninth inning, the Cardinals got the clutch run they needed to take the lead again.&nbsp; Willson Contreras led the inning off with a single, and was pinch ran for by Garrett Hampson.&nbsp; Hampson advanced to third base on a single by Lars Nootbaar.&nbsp; With two outs, Yohel Pozo entered the game as a pinch hitter, and as he's done a few times this season, delivered a clutch hit with an RBI single to drive in Hampson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">POZO IN THE 9TH! <a href="https://t.co/2PCLv2jDQx">pic.twitter.com/2PCLv2jDQx</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1952585877370143088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the bottom of the ninth, JoJo Romero came on for the save, giving up a single to Shohei Ohtani.&nbsp; Nootbaar saved the game getting the first out of the inning, making a diving catch in right field for a flyout by Mookie Betts.&nbsp; Romero struck out Freeman for the second out, but walked Will Smith putting two runners on base.&nbsp; Romero earned his second save of the season though getting Max Muncy to line out to Nootbaar to end the game.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NOOOOOOOOOT SAVES THE GAME!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForTheLou?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForTheLou</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/STIHLUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@STIHLUSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/oyL6S1VwoO">pic.twitter.com/oyL6S1VwoO</a>&mdash; St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/1952592150333378592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Riley O'Brien, blew his first save of the season but also earned the win in relief, his first win of the season, pitching one inning and giving up one run on one hit.&nbsp; At the plate, Herrera was 2-for-4 with the home run and an RBI.&nbsp; Winn was 1-for-3 with a walk, the home run, and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;St. Louis and Los Angeles continue on Tuesday.&nbsp; Miles Mikolas (6-8, 4.83 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against&nbsp;Emmet Sheehan (2-2, 3.60 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 9:10pm with coverage beginning around 9 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Late run gives Cardinals 3-2 win over Dodgers in late night matchup

Bailey Falter struggled in his Kansas City Royals debut, giving up five runs in the first inning, and the Royals could not recover on way to an 8-5 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Monday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;

The Red Sox loaded the bases against Falter in the bottom of the first inning right away, and scored two runs on a single by Rob Refsnyder, driving in Romy Gonzalez and Alex Bregman.&nbsp; With two outs, the final three runs of the inning scored as Jarren Duran hit his 12th home run of the season, scoring Wilyer Abreu and Refsnyder.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ceddanne Rafaela extended the lead in the third inning with an RBI single for Boston, driving in Trevor Story.&nbsp; The Royals found their way onto the scoreboard in the next inning Adam Frazier hitting a sacrifice fly to bring home Salvador Perez, but in the bottom half of the inning the Red Sox got that run back on a single by Bregman, scoring Abraham Toro.&nbsp;

Abreu added the final run for the Red Sox in the seventh inning, an RBI single driving in Gonzalez.&nbsp; In the eighth inning, the Royals put together a small rally with a four run inning.&nbsp; Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia led the inning off with back to back home runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski doubled with one out, and advanced to third base on a fielding error by Duran, later scoring with a single by Frazier.&nbsp; Frazier scored the final run on a double by Nick Loftin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Falter fell to 7-6 on the season, pitching four innings and giving up seven runs on eight hits while striking out two and walking two.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-5 with the home run and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Boston continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Ryan Bergert (1-0, 2.78 ERA) makes his Royals debut while Garrett Crochet (12-4, 2.23 ERA) takes the mound for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

By MATT PIKEBailey Falter struggled in his Kansas City Royals debut, giving up five runs in the first inning, and the Royals could not recover on way to an 8-5 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Monday night at Fenway Park.&nbsp;The Red Sox loaded the bases against Falter in the bottom of the first inning right away, and scored two runs on a single by Rob Refsnyder, driving in Romy Gonzalez and Alex Bregman.&nbsp; With two outs, the final three runs of the inning scored as Jarren Duran hit his 12th home run of the season, scoring Wilyer Abreu and Refsnyder.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ceddanne Rafaela extended the lead in the third inning with an RBI single for Boston, driving in Trevor Story.&nbsp; The Royals found their way onto the scoreboard in the next inning Adam Frazier hitting a sacrifice fly to bring home Salvador Perez, but in the bottom half of the inning the Red Sox got that run back on a single by Bregman, scoring Abraham Toro.&nbsp;Abreu added the final run for the Red Sox in the seventh inning, an RBI single driving in Gonzalez.&nbsp; In the eighth inning, the Royals put together a small rally with a four run inning.&nbsp; Vinnie Pasquantino and Maikel Garcia led the inning off with back to back home runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski doubled with one out, and advanced to third base on a fielding error by Duran, later scoring with a single by Frazier.&nbsp; Frazier scored the final run on a double by Nick Loftin.&nbsp;&nbsp;Falter fell to 7-6 on the season, pitching four innings and giving up seven runs on eight hits while striking out two and walking two.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-5 with the home run and an RBI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored.&nbsp;Kansas City and Boston continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Ryan Bergert (1-0, 2.78 ERA) makes his Royals debut while Garrett Crochet (12-4, 2.23 ERA) takes the mound for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Falter struggles, Pasquantino, Garcia go back to back as Royals fall 8-5

The St. Louis Cardinals haven't had quite the luck they hoped for since the All Star Break, losing 11 of their 16 games, and dropping below .500 after falling to the San Diego Padres 7-3 on Sunday afternoon, losing the series as well for their fourth series loss out of five series since the break.&nbsp;

The Cardinals fell behind in the fourth inning on a one out two run home run by Jake Cronenworth, scoring&nbsp;Ramón Laureano after his one out single.&nbsp; In the seventh inning, the Padres extended their lead scoring four runs, three coming on a bases clearing triple by Jackson Merrill, driving in Freddy Fermin, Fernando Tatis Jr, and Manny Machado, before Merrill scored on a sacrifice fly by Xander Bogaerts.&nbsp; Laureano homered in the eighth inning for the final San Diego run.&nbsp;

In the ninth inning, St. Louis finally found their way onto the scoreboard scoring all their runs.&nbsp; After loading the bases with singles by&nbsp;Iván Herrera and Alec Burleson and a walk to Willson Contreras, Nolan Gorman drove in the first run with an RBI single bringing home Herrera.&nbsp; Jordan Walker followed that with an RBI single of his own to drive in Burleson, before Contreras scored the final run later in the inning on a sacrifice fly by Lars Nootbar.&nbsp;

Andre Pallante took the loss, falling to 6-8 on the season, pitching five innings and giving up two runs on five hits while striking out four and walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Herrera was 2-for-3 with a run scored.&nbsp; Contreras was 0-for-2 with two walks and a run scored.&nbsp; Gorman and Walker were both 1-for-4 with an RBI.

St. Louis continues their trip along the west coast and travels to Los Angeles next.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (10-5, 4.38 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Tyler Glasnow (1-1, 3.38 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 9:10pm with coverage being joined around 9 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).

By MATT PIKEThe St. Louis Cardinals haven't had quite the luck they hoped for since the All Star Break, losing 11 of their 16 games, and dropping below .500 after falling to the San Diego Padres 7-3 on Sunday afternoon, losing the series as well for their fourth series loss out of five series since the break.&nbsp;The Cardinals fell behind in the fourth inning on a one out two run home run by Jake Cronenworth, scoring&nbsp;Ramón Laureano after his one out single.&nbsp; In the seventh inning, the Padres extended their lead scoring four runs, three coming on a bases clearing triple by Jackson Merrill, driving in Freddy Fermin, Fernando Tatis Jr, and Manny Machado, before Merrill scored on a sacrifice fly by Xander Bogaerts.&nbsp; Laureano homered in the eighth inning for the final San Diego run.&nbsp;In the ninth inning, St. Louis finally found their way onto the scoreboard scoring all their runs.&nbsp; After loading the bases with singles by&nbsp;Iván Herrera and Alec Burleson and a walk to Willson Contreras, Nolan Gorman drove in the first run with an RBI single bringing home Herrera.&nbsp; Jordan Walker followed that with an RBI single of his own to drive in Burleson, before Contreras scored the final run later in the inning on a sacrifice fly by Lars Nootbar.&nbsp;Andre Pallante took the loss, falling to 6-8 on the season, pitching five innings and giving up two runs on five hits while striking out four and walking three.&nbsp; At the plate, Herrera was 2-for-3 with a run scored.&nbsp; Contreras was 0-for-2 with two walks and a run scored.&nbsp; Gorman and Walker were both 1-for-4 with an RBI.St. Louis continues their trip along the west coast and travels to Los Angeles next.&nbsp; Sonny Gray (10-5, 4.38 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals against Tyler Glasnow (1-1, 3.38 ERA) for the Dodgers.&nbsp; First pitch is at 9:10pm with coverage being joined around 9 on KY 102 (102.5 FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cards drop series, fall below .500, in 7-3 loss to Padres

The Kansas City Royals used a big extra innings frame, with clutch hits from Kyle Isbel and Tyler Tolbert among others, to clinch their fourth series win in a row beating the Toronto Blue Jays 7-4 to end the first series of a nine game road trip.&nbsp;

The Blue Jays opened up the scoring as they battled back and forth with the Royals, scoring in the second inning on an RBI single by Myles Straw that drove in Bo Bichette, after Bichette led the inning off with a walk.&nbsp; Kansas City came back to tie up the game in the fourth inning with Vinnie Pasquantino scoring on a sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Toronto took the lead back in the fifth inning with two outs in the inning, Ernie Clement scoring after his leadoff walk to the inning on an RBI single by&nbsp;Joey Loperfido.&nbsp; The Blue Jays held that lead until the Royals tied the game again in the eighth, an RBI single by Pasquantino driving in Bobby Witt Jr after his two out double, tying the game at 2-2 where it would remain through nine innings, forcing the rubber match into extra innings.

Randal Grichuk started the 10th inning at second base, and on the first pitch against reliever Seranthony Domínguez, Kyle Isbel laced a double down the right field line, scoring Grichuk for the go ahead run.&nbsp; The bases would end up loaded after Jonathan India was hit by a pitch and Witt Jr walked, and Tolbert, who had pinch ran for Pasquantino after his RBI single, delivered a two RBI single scoring Isbel and India.&nbsp; Witt Jr went first to third on the single, and scored as catcher Alejandro Kirk attempted to pick him off at third, overthrowing the third baseman, also allowing Tolbert to race from first to third.&nbsp; Tolbert scored the final run of the frame on a sacrifice fly by Maikel Garcia.&nbsp;

Carlos Estévez took the mound in the bottom half of the inning for Kansas City with the Royals leading by five, but that lead was reduced right away to start the frame on an RBI single by Nathan Lukes driving in Straw.&nbsp; &nbsp;Estévez did get two outs, striking out Loperfido and getting Vladimir Guerrero Jr to pop out, but Lukes moved to second on defensive indifference, and later scored on an RBI single by Addison Barger.&nbsp; With runners on the corners,&nbsp;Estévez forced Kirk to ground out ending the game.

Hunter Harvey earned the win in relief, his first win of the season moving to 1-0, pitching one inning and giving up one hit while striking out one.&nbsp; At the plate, Isbel was 2-for-4 with the double and one RBI.&nbsp; Tolbert was 1-for-1 with two RBIs.

Kansas City now travels to Boston on the road trip.&nbsp; Bailey Falter (7-5, 3.73 ERA) makes his Royals debut starting for Kansas City against&nbsp;Brayan Bello (7-5, 3.19 ERA) for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage beginning at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).

By MATT PIKEThe Kansas City Royals used a big extra innings frame, with clutch hits from Kyle Isbel and Tyler Tolbert among others, to clinch their fourth series win in a row beating the Toronto Blue Jays 7-4 to end the first series of a nine game road trip.&nbsp;The Blue Jays opened up the scoring as they battled back and forth with the Royals, scoring in the second inning on an RBI single by Myles Straw that drove in Bo Bichette, after Bichette led the inning off with a walk.&nbsp; Kansas City came back to tie up the game in the fourth inning with Vinnie Pasquantino scoring on a sacrifice fly by&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski.&nbsp;&nbsp;Toronto took the lead back in the fifth inning with two outs in the inning, Ernie Clement scoring after his leadoff walk to the inning on an RBI single by&nbsp;Joey Loperfido.&nbsp; The Blue Jays held that lead until the Royals tied the game again in the eighth, an RBI single by Pasquantino driving in Bobby Witt Jr after his two out double, tying the game at 2-2 where it would remain through nine innings, forcing the rubber match into extra innings.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vinnie comes through to tie things up! <a href="https://t.co/lKHGrtnSbZ">pic.twitter.com/lKHGrtnSbZ</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1952094456485679329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Randal Grichuk started the 10th inning at second base, and on the first pitch against reliever Seranthony Domínguez, Kyle Isbel laced a double down the right field line, scoring Grichuk for the go ahead run.&nbsp; The bases would end up loaded after Jonathan India was hit by a pitch and Witt Jr walked, and Tolbert, who had pinch ran for Pasquantino after his RBI single, delivered a two RBI single scoring Isbel and India.&nbsp; Witt Jr went first to third on the single, and scored as catcher Alejandro Kirk attempted to pick him off at third, overthrowing the third baseman, also allowing Tolbert to race from first to third.&nbsp; Tolbert scored the final run of the frame on a sacrifice fly by Maikel Garcia.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Big hits, boys! <a href="https://t.co/zi7VYohiLk">pic.twitter.com/zi7VYohiLk</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1952102864660169193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Carlos Estévez took the mound in the bottom half of the inning for Kansas City with the Royals leading by five, but that lead was reduced right away to start the frame on an RBI single by Nathan Lukes driving in Straw.&nbsp; &nbsp;Estévez did get two outs, striking out Loperfido and getting Vladimir Guerrero Jr to pop out, but Lukes moved to second on defensive indifference, and later scored on an RBI single by Addison Barger.&nbsp; With runners on the corners,&nbsp;Estévez forced Kirk to ground out ending the game.Hunter Harvey earned the win in relief, his first win of the season moving to 1-0, pitching one inning and giving up one hit while striking out one.&nbsp; At the plate, Isbel was 2-for-4 with the double and one RBI.&nbsp; Tolbert was 1-for-1 with two RBIs.Kansas City now travels to Boston on the road trip.&nbsp; Bailey Falter (7-5, 3.73 ERA) makes his Royals debut starting for Kansas City against&nbsp;Brayan Bello (7-5, 3.19 ERA) for the Red Sox.&nbsp; First pitch is at 6:10pm, pregame coverage beginning at 5:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Royals rally for fourth straight series win beating Blue Jays 7-4

The hot topic during this Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp at Missouri Western State University has been the battle along the offensive line 

With guys shifting to every position to find the best five along the line, players like Josh Simmons, Jaylon Moore, and Jawaan Taylor are competing every day for their spot.  

Taylor, who recently returned from the physically unable to perform list after an offseason knee procedure, says the competition is going well 

"Everyone's moving around, trying different positions and stuff like that, doing what Coach Heck is asking us to do," Taylor tells reporters after practice.  "And everyone's just trying to get better as a unit and be a better O-Line for sure." 

To find the best five guys to start week one, head coach Andy Reid and offensive line coach Andy Heck have players moving all across the offensive line, some in positions they may have not played much in their careers.

Like newly signed lineman Jaylon Moore, whose been working out at guard despite playing tackle for most of his career in San Francisco.  But Moore says while it's new, it's still just football 

"The biggest thing is just keep trying to take steps forward, keep trying to improve looking at the film and try to improve every day," Moore says. 

Moore has been competing with Mike Caliendo and Kingsley Suamataia to replace Joe Thuney at left guard, while also competing with rookie Josh Simmons at left tackle.  He's also rotated with Jawaan Taylor at right tackle.  

This year's NFL Draft brought an impressive crop of rookies to the Chiefs, many that have quickly become fan favorites during Chiefs Training Camp 

One of those is fourth round pick wide receiver Jalen Royals, whose impressed fans with his pass catching and route running ability for Patrick Mahomes.

Royals says he's been soaking in a lot of knowledge from his veteran quarterback 

"In the meeting room he tells me everything I need to do and then off the meetings and stuff like that where I'm just out here he'll tell me corrections and stuff like that," Royals says.  "And obviously after the play he'll let me know on the sidelines." 

Royals has built a good rapport with Mahomes, and could make a pretty immediate impact in the offense with the pending suspension to Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown currently injured with an ankle injury

The Chiefs practiced again for just over two hours today, this time in shorts and out of pads.  They are off on Monday, and back to practice on Tuesday at 9:15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754246656084.jpeg" alt="The Chiefs offensive line works hard at Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp. The offensive line battle has been a huge focus of this year's camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>The Chiefs offensive line works hard at Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp. The offensive line battle has been a huge focus of this year's camp in St. Joseph/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE The hot topic during this Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp at Missouri Western State University has been the battle along the offensive line With guys shifting to every position to find the best five along the line, players like Josh Simmons, Jaylon Moore, and Jawaan Taylor are competing every day for their spot. Taylor, who recently returned from the physically unable to perform list after an offseason knee procedure, says the competition is going well "Everyone's moving around, trying different positions and stuff like that, doing what Coach Heck is asking us to do," Taylor tells reporters after practice. "And everyone's just trying to get better as a unit and be a better O-Line for sure." To find the best five guys to start week one, head coach Andy Reid and offensive line coach Andy Heck have players moving all across the offensive line, some in positions they may have not played much in their careers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754246290245.jpeg" alt="Offensive tackle Jaylon Moore (77) walks down the hill alongside fellow offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick (72) and rookie Josh Simmons (71)/ Photo by Alexis Starks" />
 <figcaption>Offensive tackle Jaylon Moore (77) walks down the hill alongside fellow offensive lineman Chukwuebuka Godrick (72) and rookie Josh Simmons (71)/ Photo by Alexis Starks</figcaption>
 </figure>Like newly signed lineman Jaylon Moore, whose been working out at guard despite playing tackle for most of his career in San Francisco. But Moore says while it's new, it's still just football "The biggest thing is just keep trying to take steps forward, keep trying to improve looking at the film and try to improve every day," Moore says. Moore has been competing with Mike Caliendo and Kingsley Suamataia to replace Joe Thuney at left guard, while also competing with rookie Josh Simmons at left tackle. He's also rotated with Jawaan Taylor at right tackle. This year's NFL Draft brought an impressive crop of rookies to the Chiefs, many that have quickly become fan favorites during Chiefs Training Camp One of those is fourth round pick wide receiver Jalen Royals, whose impressed fans with his pass catching and route running ability for Patrick Mahomes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754245545125.jpeg" alt="Rookie Jalen Royals goes up for a catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Rookie Jalen Royals goes up for a catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>Royals says he's been soaking in a lot of knowledge from his veteran quarterback "In the meeting room he tells me everything I need to do and then off the meetings and stuff like that where I'm just out here he'll tell me corrections and stuff like that," Royals says. "And obviously after the play he'll let me know on the sidelines." Royals has built a good rapport with Mahomes, and could make a pretty immediate impact in the offense with the pending suspension to Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown currently injured with an ankle injury<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754245681052.jpeg" alt="Jalen Royals (11) goes for a catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Jalen Royals (11) goes for a catch during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chiefs practiced again for just over two hours today, this time in shorts and out of pads. They are off on Monday, and back to practice on Tuesday at 9:15.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

O-Line battle remains hot topic during Chiefs Training Camp

With one week until their first preseason game, the Kansas City Chiefs were back at practice on Saturday continuing to prepare for the Arizona Cardinals.  

Ahead of the first preseason game, Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says there's a checklist of things to prepare for, wanting to be ready for every situation 

"We go over it and we go over it, and we have a lot of walkthroughs in the afternoon where you don't see us working on hands team or onside kick, all those different scenarios, and there's thousands of them on special teams, we have to be sure we're on those," Toub tells reporters following practice.  "And every group's got to do it, it's not just the ones, you finish a game your hands team is going to be your fourteen guys, so they need to know what to do, how to lineup, and everything that goes along with it, which is a lot." 

The first preseason game will give Chiefs rookies their first taste of NFL game action, 

One of those rookies is third round pick defensive end Ashton Gillotte, whose been getting reps with both the first and second team defense.

Gillotte says getting to touch that field for the first time against the Arizona Cardinals will be a dream come true 

"I've been dreaming of this since I was a kid and God put this journey on my heart and just to be able to live it out and play at the highest level that's a privilege and an honor," Gillotte says. 

At this point, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo wants Gillotte to focus on learning defensive end but hopes during his career to be able to move him around on the defensive line.

There's a bit of a dark cloud that's been looming over Chiefs Training Camp at Missouri Western State University.  

Wide receiver Rashee Rice has been back at camp at full strength after suffering a season ending injury in week four last season.  But, after being sentenced for an offseason crash last year, Rice is awaiting punishment from the league.  

For Rice, while the league and his team sort that suspension out, there's only one thing he says he can worry about 

"All I can do is focus on what I can control right now, and that's doing what I do best right here on the field," Rice says. 

As for coming back from the injury, Rice says he feels even better than he felt during last year's camp, being able to focus on things that he hadn't focused on before during the offseason. 

The Chiefs practiced without Jared Wiley today, a new addition to the injury list.  Drue Tranquill remained out after a back injury in yesterday's practice.&nbsp; wide receivers Hollywood Brown and Skyy Moore,&nbsp; tight end Jake Briningstool, safety Deon Bush, and cornerback Kristian Fulton also remained absent from practice due to injury.

The Chiefs practiced again for just over two hours today.  They are back at practice tomorrow at 9:15, before an off day on Monday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722794628807.jpeg" alt="Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub during the first official practice in St. Joseph during last year's training camp/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub during the first official practice in St. Joseph during last year's training camp/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE With one week until their first preseason game, the Kansas City Chiefs were back at practice on Saturday continuing to prepare for the Arizona Cardinals. Ahead of the first preseason game, Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says there's a checklist of things to prepare for, wanting to be ready for every situation "We go over it and we go over it, and we have a lot of walkthroughs in the afternoon where you don't see us working on hands team or onside kick, all those different scenarios, and there's thousands of them on special teams, we have to be sure we're on those," Toub tells reporters following practice. "And every group's got to do it, it's not just the ones, you finish a game your hands team is going to be your fourteen guys, so they need to know what to do, how to lineup, and everything that goes along with it, which is a lot." The first preseason game will give Chiefs rookies their first taste of NFL game action, One of those rookies is third round pick defensive end Ashton Gillotte, whose been getting reps with both the first and second team defense.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754163309621.jpeg" alt="Ashton Gillotte/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Ashton Gillotte/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>Gillotte says getting to touch that field for the first time against the Arizona Cardinals will be a dream come true "I've been dreaming of this since I was a kid and God put this journey on my heart and just to be able to live it out and play at the highest level that's a privilege and an honor," Gillotte says. At this point, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo wants Gillotte to focus on learning defensive end but hopes during his career to be able to move him around on the defensive line.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753383787856.jpeg" alt="Rashee Rice (4) cathces a pass with coverage by linebacker Leo Chenal (54)/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Rashee Rice (4) cathces a pass with coverage by linebacker Leo Chenal (54)/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>There's a bit of a dark cloud that's been looming over Chiefs Training Camp at Missouri Western State University. Wide receiver Rashee Rice has been back at camp at full strength after suffering a season ending injury in week four last season. But, after being sentenced for an offseason crash last year, Rice is awaiting punishment from the league. For Rice, while the league and his team sort that suspension out, there's only one thing he says he can worry about "All I can do is focus on what I can control right now, and that's doing what I do best right here on the field," Rice says. As for coming back from the injury, Rice says he feels even better than he felt during last year's camp, being able to focus on things that he hadn't focused on before during the offseason. The Chiefs practiced without Jared Wiley today, a new addition to the injury list. Drue Tranquill remained out after a back injury in yesterday's practice.&nbsp; wide receivers Hollywood Brown and Skyy Moore,&nbsp; tight end Jake Briningstool, safety Deon Bush, and cornerback Kristian Fulton also remained absent from practice due to injury.The Chiefs practiced again for just over two hours today. They are back at practice tomorrow at 9:15, before an off day on Monday. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chiefs gearing up at training camp with one week left until first preseason action

This December, St. Joseph's Civic Arena will again play host to Division I women's college basketball  

"We're really fortunate and honored that we're able to host Division I women's college basketball at a time where the product is arguably as popular as it's ever been," St. Joseph Sports Commision Director Brett Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  

Esely says the third annual Bill Snyder Classic will play host to the Kansas State women again, this year taking on Ole Miss of the SEC.  

Esely says the matchup is one that should draw a lot of interest 

"Just a really, really intriguing matchup anywhere, let alone here in St. Joseph, when you've got one of the Big 12's best teams taking on one of the SEC's best teams," Esely says. 

Eseley says this year's matchup will take place on Sunday, rather than Saturday, and tipoff at 2pm which is significant because this matchup could attract national attention 

"ESPN obviously has a lot of family of networks, and whereas those time windows may not be as readily available on Saturday, they could be on Sunday, and so we hope that that's the case this time around," Esely explains.  "Because the matchup sells itself, there's very little to sell with the matchup, any time you've got two teams that are likely going to be nationally ranked and two teams just with the recent history that they've had and what they did a season ago, there's going to be interest around this game." 

Esely does point out games are always streamed online typically, but that TV window for women's basketball is typically on Sunday's, which made moving a matchup like this intriguing.  

Both teams made the sweet 16 in last season's NCAA tournament, and finished the season ranked in the top 25, with Kansas State at #13 and Ole Miss at #17.   

Esely is already expecting a large crowd on hand at the arena on December 7th 

"I'll be honest, I'd be disappointed if we didn't sell this game out," Esely candidly says.  "I think the uniqueness of the event, the opponents that are playing, I would say there's a very good chance going into that game that these two teams are going to be nationally ranked, which is another huge selling point, I'd be really disappointed if this game didn't sell out, I think our tickets will be very affordably priced depending on where you want to sit in the arena." 

Tickets will go on sale this month, with an early presale for people who have purchased tickets to the two previous Bill Snyder classics. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734233150922.jpeg" alt="The Kansas State Wildcats and Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders played in the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic at Civic Arena/ Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas State Wildcats and Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders played in the second annual Bill Snyder Women's Basketball Classic at Civic Arena/ Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE This December, St. Joseph's Civic Arena will again play host to Division I women's college basketball "We're really fortunate and honored that we're able to host Division I women's college basketball at a time where the product is arguably as popular as it's ever been," St. Joseph Sports Commision Director Brett Esely tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Esely says the third annual Bill Snyder Classic will play host to the Kansas State women again, this year taking on Ole Miss of the SEC. Esely says the matchup is one that should draw a lot of interest "Just a really, really intriguing matchup anywhere, let alone here in St. Joseph, when you've got one of the Big 12's best teams taking on one of the SEC's best teams," Esely says. Eseley says this year's matchup will take place on Sunday, rather than Saturday, and tipoff at 2pm which is significant because this matchup could attract national attention "ESPN obviously has a lot of family of networks, and whereas those time windows may not be as readily available on Saturday, they could be on Sunday, and so we hope that that's the case this time around," Esely explains. "Because the matchup sells itself, there's very little to sell with the matchup, any time you've got two teams that are likely going to be nationally ranked and two teams just with the recent history that they've had and what they did a season ago, there's going to be interest around this game." Esely does point out games are always streamed online typically, but that TV window for women's basketball is typically on Sunday's, which made moving a matchup like this intriguing. Both teams made the sweet 16 in last season's NCAA tournament, and finished the season ranked in the top 25, with Kansas State at #13 and Ole Miss at #17. Esely is already expecting a large crowd on hand at the arena on December 7th "I'll be honest, I'd be disappointed if we didn't sell this game out," Esely candidly says. "I think the uniqueness of the event, the opponents that are playing, I would say there's a very good chance going into that game that these two teams are going to be nationally ranked, which is another huge selling point, I'd be really disappointed if this game didn't sell out, I think our tickets will be very affordably priced depending on where you want to sit in the arena." Tickets will go on sale this month, with an early presale for people who have purchased tickets to the two previous Bill Snyder classics. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753981987157.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Sports Commision" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Sports Commision</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Third annual Bill Snyder Classic brings intriguing matchup to Civic Arena

Acquired by the Kansas City Royals just minutes before Thursday's 5pm deadline, outfielder Mike Yastrzemski joined the Royals in Toronto on Friday making his debut in right field, and homering in his first at bat to give Kansas City the lead on way to a 9-3 series opening victory.&nbsp;

The Blue Jays got on the board in the first inning, with two outs Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting a solo home run off Michael Wacha.&nbsp; In the second inning though, with one out and Maikel Garcia on second base after his leadoff single and a stolen base, Yastrzemski stepped to the plate for the first time as a Royal and homered to right center field giving Kansas City a 2-1 lead.&nbsp;

In the third inning, the Royals added three more runs.&nbsp; Kyle Isbel singled leading off the inning and Jonathan India followed that up with a double, before Bobby Witt Jr hit his 16th home run of the season to left field to extend the Kansas City lead to 5-1.&nbsp;

After giving up the home run and a double in the first inning, Wacha went on to retire 21 of the next 23 batters he faced through the game, only surrendering a single to Bo Bichette in the fourth inning and having Ernie Clement reach first on a throwing error by Witt Jr.&nbsp; Wacha would be replaced by Thomas Hatch in the ninth inning.&nbsp;

Before Hatch came to the mound though, the Royals extended their lead more in the top half of the ninth behind more home runs.&nbsp; Salvador Perez hit a solo shot to lead off the inning.&nbsp; Then, with Randal Grichuk on first base, Adam Frazier hit his fourth home run of the season to push Kansas City ahead more.&nbsp; Later, with the bases loaded, the final run was driven in by Garcia with an RBI single, scoring Isbel who singled after the Frazier home run.&nbsp;

Against Hatch in the bottom half of the inning,&nbsp;Joey Loperfido doubled to lead off the inning, and later scored with two outs as Addison Barger hit a two run home run to right field for the final runs of the game.&nbsp; Hatch struck out Ty France to end the game.&nbsp;

Wacha improved to 5-9 on the season earning the win, pitching eight innings and giving up three hits and one run while striking out five.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored.&nbsp; Isbel was 2-for-4 with two runs scored.&nbsp; In his debut,&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 1-for-3 with the home run and two RBIs.&nbsp;

Kansas City and Toronto continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Noah Cameron (5-4, 2.44 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Max Scherzer (1-1, 4.89 ERA) for the Blue Jays.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:07pm, pregame coverage will begin at 1:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By MATT PIKEAcquired by the Kansas City Royals just minutes before Thursday's 5pm deadline, outfielder Mike Yastrzemski joined the Royals in Toronto on Friday making his debut in right field, and homering in his first at bat to give Kansas City the lead on way to a 9-3 series opening victory.&nbsp;The Blue Jays got on the board in the first inning, with two outs Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hitting a solo home run off Michael Wacha.&nbsp; In the second inning though, with one out and Maikel Garcia on second base after his leadoff single and a stolen base, Yastrzemski stepped to the plate for the first time as a Royal and homered to right center field giving Kansas City a 2-1 lead.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">So, you like Yaz? <a href="https://t.co/iu8hYtis2Q">pic.twitter.com/iu8hYtis2Q</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1951426460335378760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the third inning, the Royals added three more runs.&nbsp; Kyle Isbel singled leading off the inning and Jonathan India followed that up with a double, before Bobby Witt Jr hit his 16th home run of the season to left field to extend the Kansas City lead to 5-1.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bobby Baseball blast-off! 🚀 <a href="https://t.co/HG2DJctYeg">pic.twitter.com/HG2DJctYeg</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1951430489895739439?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After giving up the home run and a double in the first inning, Wacha went on to retire 21 of the next 23 batters he faced through the game, only surrendering a single to Bo Bichette in the fourth inning and having Ernie Clement reach first on a throwing error by Witt Jr.&nbsp; Wacha would be replaced by Thomas Hatch in the ninth inning.&nbsp;Before Hatch came to the mound though, the Royals extended their lead more in the top half of the ninth behind more home runs.&nbsp; Salvador Perez hit a solo shot to lead off the inning.&nbsp; Then, with Randal Grichuk on first base, Adam Frazier hit his fourth home run of the season to push Kansas City ahead more.&nbsp; Later, with the bases loaded, the final run was driven in by Garcia with an RBI single, scoring Isbel who singled after the Frazier home run.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New month, same Sal. 🫡 <a href="https://t.co/JsvMuytQID">pic.twitter.com/JsvMuytQID</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1951452521136107580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Out goes Frazier! <a href="https://t.co/udadTxOrZC">pic.twitter.com/udadTxOrZC</a>&mdash; Kansas City Royals (@Royals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Royals/status/1951453515022283052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Against Hatch in the bottom half of the inning,&nbsp;Joey Loperfido doubled to lead off the inning, and later scored with two outs as Addison Barger hit a two run home run to right field for the final runs of the game.&nbsp; Hatch struck out Ty France to end the game.&nbsp;Wacha improved to 5-9 on the season earning the win, pitching eight innings and giving up three hits and one run while striking out five.&nbsp; At the plate, Garcia was 2-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored.&nbsp; Isbel was 2-for-4 with two runs scored.&nbsp; In his debut,&nbsp;Yastrzemski was 1-for-3 with the home run and two RBIs.&nbsp;Kansas City and Toronto continue their series tomorrow.&nbsp; Noah Cameron (5-4, 2.44 ERA) takes the mound for the Royals against Max Scherzer (1-1, 4.89 ERA) for the Blue Jays.&nbsp; First pitch is at 2:07pm, pregame coverage will begin at 1:30 on KFEQ (680AM/95.3FM).&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Yaz goes long in KC debut as Royals beat Blue Jays 9-3

The Kansas City Chiefs hit the ground running after an off-day Thursday, back at practice today on a much cooler Friday morning.  

Despite questions of a knee injury, the Chiefs drafted Ohio State left tackle Josh Simmons in the first round of this year's draft.  Simmons though is past that knee injury and has been impressing during camp.  

Head Coach Andy Reid says Simmons has been getting in his reps, which is good for a rookie 

"Showing up every day and working and not taking plays off or anything like that, but he's a worker," Reid tells reporters following practice.  "But he's a worker and he's willing to do it, it's just a matter of you've got to keep on going, but he's done a nice job of what we've asked him, he's working on all the fundamentals and techniques and that's the challenge for him." 

After being limited during team OTA's, Simmons has been getting full reps during training camp and has impressed fans with his blocking skills along the offensive line.  

Simmons says he's leaned on players like Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Jaylon Moore, who have been in the league for some time, and have made rookie mistakes before 

"So, I don't make them or I'm at least ready for those welcome to the NFL moments," Simmons explains.  "But it's just about the work you put it, even if it's something that I already know just to confirm, like hey on this I should set like this or something like that? Yes, that's what you want to do, just getting that kind of imprinted in my brain that way I can play as fast as I can when i get out there." 

Simmons has been rotating with Moore at the tackle position as the two compete for the left tackle job.  Moore has also been working at guard.

A player that's paved his way into the Chiefs special teams' group is wide receiver Nikki Remigio.  Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says Remigio is one of the best returners on the squad.  

While Remigio accepts the compliment, he says he takes it with a grain of salt, pointing out you can't get complacent in this league 

"I think the thing that I've learned with this business is that if you get to comfortable, you're going to get got, and I've worked to damn hard to get to this point in my career, to get to year three, to let it slip through my fingers," Remigio says.  "So really I approach everyday like I'm an undrafted rookie that barely got a shot to make it to the NFL." 

Remigio has had opportunities to run with the upper wide receiver groups as well this camp, with injuries to Skyy Moore and Hollywood Brown 

Jawaan Taylor was back at practice today, as was wide receiver Xavier Worthy who cleared the NFL's concussion protocol.  

The Chiefs practiced for just over two hours.  They are back at practice tomorrow at 9:15. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754079180650.jpeg" alt="Rookie Josh Simmons (71) blocks during a 7-on-7 drill during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Rookie Josh Simmons (71) blocks during a 7-on-7 drill during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE The Kansas City Chiefs hit the ground running after an off-day Thursday, back at practice today on a much cooler Friday morning. Despite questions of a knee injury, the Chiefs drafted Ohio State left tackle Josh Simmons in the first round of this year's draft. Simmons though is past that knee injury and has been impressing during camp. Head Coach Andy Reid says Simmons has been getting in his reps, which is good for a rookie "Showing up every day and working and not taking plays off or anything like that, but he's a worker," Reid tells reporters following practice. "But he's a worker and he's willing to do it, it's just a matter of you've got to keep on going, but he's done a nice job of what we've asked him, he's working on all the fundamentals and techniques and that's the challenge for him." After being limited during team OTA's, Simmons has been getting full reps during training camp and has impressed fans with his blocking skills along the offensive line. Simmons says he's leaned on players like Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Jaylon Moore, who have been in the league for some time, and have made rookie mistakes before "So, I don't make them or I'm at least ready for those welcome to the NFL moments," Simmons explains. "But it's just about the work you put it, even if it's something that I already know just to confirm, like hey on this I should set like this or something like that? Yes, that's what you want to do, just getting that kind of imprinted in my brain that way I can play as fast as I can when i get out there." Simmons has been rotating with Moore at the tackle position as the two compete for the left tackle job. Moore has also been working at guard.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754079226552.jpeg" alt="Nikko Remigio (81) catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock" />
 <figcaption>Nikko Remigio (81) catches a pass during Chiefs Training Camp/ Photo by Justin Peacock</figcaption>
 </figure>A player that's paved his way into the Chiefs special teams' group is wide receiver Nikki Remigio. Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub says Remigio is one of the best returners on the squad. While Remigio accepts the compliment, he says he takes it with a grain of salt, pointing out you can't get complacent in this league "I think the thing that I've learned with this business is that if you get to comfortable, you're going to get got, and I've worked to damn hard to get to this point in my career, to get to year three, to let it slip through my fingers," Remigio says. "So really I approach everyday like I'm an undrafted rookie that barely got a shot to make it to the NFL." Remigio has had opportunities to run with the upper wide receiver groups as well this camp, with injuries to Skyy Moore and Hollywood Brown Jawaan Taylor was back at practice today, as was wide receiver Xavier Worthy who cleared the NFL's concussion protocol. The Chiefs practiced for just over two hours. They are back at practice tomorrow at 9:15. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chiefs first round pick impressing as camp reaches midway point

With the MLB Trade deadline in the rearview mirror, the Kansas City Royals on the final day added three pitchers to their pitching staff, a staff that is currently ridded with injuries with Cole Ragans, Michael Lorenzen, Daniel Lynch, and Kris Bubic.&nbsp;

The Royals started the day trading backup catcher Freddy Fermin to the San Diego Padres for two right handed pitchers, acquiring&nbsp;Ryan Bergert (SD's No. 7 prospect) and Stephen Kolek.

Bergert made his Major League debut this season and has a 2.78 ERA across 11 games (seven starts) and 35 2/3 innings. Bergert has a 22.8% strikeout rate and 12.1% walk rate, but that walk rate was lower when he was in Triple-A earlier this year (9.2%) and Double-A last year (7.9%).&nbsp;

Kolek has just over a year of service time and won’t be a free agent until 2030. He made his debut in 2024 with the Padres,&nbsp; after they took him in the Rule 5 Draft in 2023 from the Mariners, and posted a 5.21 ERA out of the bullpen that season.&nbsp; This year, he has a 4.18 ERA across 14 starts in 79 2/3 innings. He’s been up and down between the Padres and their Triple-A team and was optioned on Wednesday.&nbsp;

What they gave up was a backup catcher, although Fermin was much more than simply a backup in Kansas City. The 30-year-old Fermin has been Salvador Perez’s right-hand man for the past three seasons, stepping up into more of a co-catcher situation as Perez plays more first base and DH.&nbsp; Fermin is both a clubhouse and fan favorite because of work ethic, preparation and ability to come through in big moments, including in walk-off situations.

Near the buzzer of the 5pm trade deadline, Kansas City made a deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, trading minor league pitcher Evan Sisk and minor league first baseman Callan Moss to the Pirates for left handed pitcher Bailey Falter

Falter, owns a 3.73 ERA in 22 starts this season, striking out 70 batters in 113 1/3 innings. He's under team control through the 2028 season, so the Royals will have him as an option for the next few years as others (including Bubic) eventually head to free agency.

Sisk has appeared in five games for the Royals this season. He has posted a 1.69 ERA in 5 1/3 innings of work.&nbsp; In 31 games in Omaha, Sisk has an 0-2 record pitching 28 2/3 innings with a 3.77 ERA earning four saves in five opportunities and striking out 36.

Moss has spent the entire season at High-A, posting a batting average of .270 with 7 home runs and 70 RBIs in 92 games.

The final move for the Royals prior to the deadline was adding an outfield bat, trading with the San Francisco Giants for outfielder&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski, in turn sending minor league pitcher Yunior Marte, the Royals #20 prospect per MLB Pipline, to the Giants.

Yastrzemski has spent his entire seven year career with the Giants as a pretty consistent corner outfield bat. He is a lifetime .238/.323/.444 hitter with solid defense. Last year he hit 18 home runs with and was a finalist for a Gold Glove. He looks to platoon with recently acquired Randal Grichuk, who bats well against left handers, with Yastrzemski hitting .254/.366/.393 against right-handers. Yastrzemski will be a free agent this winter.

Marte is a 21-year-old right-hander who had a 2.74 ERA in 19 starts with Low-A Columbia with 79 strikeouts in 82 innings.&nbsp;

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKEWith the MLB Trade deadline in the rearview mirror, the Kansas City Royals on the final day added three pitchers to their pitching staff, a staff that is currently ridded with injuries with Cole Ragans, Michael Lorenzen, Daniel Lynch, and Kris Bubic.&nbsp;The Royals started the day trading backup catcher Freddy Fermin to the San Diego Padres for two right handed pitchers, acquiring&nbsp;Ryan Bergert (SD's No. 7 prospect) and Stephen Kolek.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001088028.jpeg" alt="Ryan Bergert" />
 <figcaption>Ryan Bergert</figcaption>
 </figure>Bergert made his Major League debut this season and has a 2.78 ERA across 11 games (seven starts) and 35 2/3 innings. Bergert has a 22.8% strikeout rate and 12.1% walk rate, but that walk rate was lower when he was in Triple-A earlier this year (9.2%) and Double-A last year (7.9%).&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001131988.jpeg" alt="Stephen Kolek/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stephen Kolek/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Kolek has just over a year of service time and won’t be a free agent until 2030. He made his debut in 2024 with the Padres,&nbsp; after they took him in the Rule 5 Draft in 2023 from the Mariners, and posted a 5.21 ERA out of the bullpen that season.&nbsp; This year, he has a 4.18 ERA across 14 starts in 79 2/3 innings. He’s been up and down between the Padres and their Triple-A team and was optioned on Wednesday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001215508.jpeg" alt="Freddy Fermin/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Freddy Fermin/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>What they gave up was a backup catcher, although Fermin was much more than simply a backup in Kansas City. The 30-year-old Fermin has been Salvador Perez’s right-hand man for the past three seasons, stepping up into more of a co-catcher situation as Perez plays more first base and DH.&nbsp; Fermin is both a clubhouse and fan favorite because of work ethic, preparation and ability to come through in big moments, including in walk-off situations.Near the buzzer of the 5pm trade deadline, Kansas City made a deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates, trading minor league pitcher Evan Sisk and minor league first baseman Callan Moss to the Pirates for left handed pitcher Bailey Falter<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001420060.jpeg" alt="Bailey Falter/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bailey Falter/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Falter, owns a 3.73 ERA in 22 starts this season, striking out 70 batters in 113 1/3 innings. He's under team control through the 2028 season, so the Royals will have him as an option for the next few years as others (including Bubic) eventually head to free agency.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001527083.jpeg" alt="Evan Sisk/ Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Evan Sisk/ Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Sisk has appeared in five games for the Royals this season. He has posted a 1.69 ERA in 5 1/3 innings of work.&nbsp; In 31 games in Omaha, Sisk has an 0-2 record pitching 28 2/3 innings with a 3.77 ERA earning four saves in five opportunities and striking out 36.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754001575188.jpeg" alt="Callan Moss/ Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Callan Moss/ Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Moss has spent the entire season at High-A, posting a batting average of .270 with 7 home runs and 70 RBIs in 92 games.The final move for the Royals prior to the deadline was adding an outfield bat, trading with the San Francisco Giants for outfielder&nbsp;Mike Yastrzemski, in turn sending minor league pitcher Yunior Marte, the Royals #20 prospect per MLB Pipline, to the Giants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754002055054.jpeg" alt="Mike Yastrzemski/ courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Mike Yastrzemski/ courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Yastrzemski has spent his entire seven year career with the Giants as a pretty consistent corner outfield bat. He is a lifetime .238/.323/.444 hitter with solid defense. Last year he hit 18 home runs with and was a finalist for a Gold Glove. He looks to platoon with recently acquired Randal Grichuk, who bats well against left handers, with Yastrzemski hitting .254/.366/.393 against right-handers. Yastrzemski will be a free agent this winter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754002140061.jpeg" alt="Yunior Marte/ Photo courtesy of MLB Pipeline on X" />
 <figcaption>Yunior Marte/ Photo courtesy of MLB Pipeline on X</figcaption>
 </figure>Marte is a 21-year-old right-hander who had a 2.74 ERA in 19 starts with Low-A Columbia with 79 strikeouts in 82 innings.&nbsp;You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;