SportsBeat KC

For a player who has only appeared in 10 games, we spend a lot of time talking about Adalberto Mondesi. But there’s always something to say. Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam Mellinger join host Blair Kerkhoff and talking about the latest setback, another oblique injury.If the Royals can’t count on Mondesi, should they consider moving him from shortstop, or trading him?The conversation started on SportsBeat Live and is now a SportsBeat KC podcast. We also discuss the Royals recent decision to start Kyle Zimmer in an “opener” role, and starting pitching options for manager Mike Matheny going forward. You’ll also hear from general manager Dayton Moore.Story links:Dayton Moore frustrated with Kansas City Royals. “We just haven’t been healthy”The Royals and Adalberto Mondesi have the same problem. It’s a tricky one Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another Chiefs’ mini-camp in the books and little drama attached to this one. Oh, there were some camp surprises, newcomers to observe and one big contract extension—Tyrann Mathieu’s—unresolved. But mostly this seems like a team intent on keeping distractions to a minimum while working toward a third straight Super Bowl.Still, there’s plenty to discuss as beat writer Herbie Teope wraps up the Chiefs’ off-season. How will the offensive line shake out? Who made the biggest impression over the past few weeks? And is a COVID-19 vaccinated team a happy team? Teope discusses these topics and more on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Why Andy Reid says mandatory mini-camp was a win-win situationOnce hesitant, Chiefs star Travis Kelce now urges COVID-19 vaccines for allTyrann Mathieu strikes a different tone about contract extension with the Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City and KC NWSL are about to become very busy. This weekend both teams start stretches of three games during a week. Sporting will look to keep alive its recent run of fortune and Woso looks for its first victory. The Star’s Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost of WHB 810 AM and the new Sporting KC sideline reporter break it down on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Also, with the soccer world watching the UEFA European Football Championship and U.S. teams heading toward international competitions, we talk about an alternate universe where soccer was the nation’s dominant sport and what might be the best soccer fits from athletes who went on to star in football, basketball, baseball and other sports. Shaun and Aly came up with some excellent teams.Story links:In Kansas City and beyond, wave of female ownership has washed over women’s pro soccerhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/fc-kansas-city/article252116783.htmlWhat’s in a name? A lot. So brand-conscious KC NWSL is testing some out in focus groupshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/fc-kansas-city/article252061763.htmlSporting KC gets plenty of shots on goal, but comes away with 1-1 tie vs. Austin FChttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article251898058.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

These were the words that Chiefs fans wanted to hear: Tyrann Mathieu says he can’t see himself playing for any other team.The contract-extension talks between the team and its All-Pro safety may not have progressed as quickly as Mathieu (or fans) wanted, as he has suggested on Twitter, but during a Thursday interview he sounded like things will work out.You’ll hear that interview in this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, along with interviews from superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid. Mahomes said he’s impressed with what he’s seen from his new offensive line and talked about how he’ll spend the next few weeks.And Reid addressed the fuss over comments former Chiefs running back Le’Veon Bell made about him earlier in the week.Story links:Tyrann Mathieu strikes different tone about contract extension with ChiefsNo hard feelings: Chiefs’ Andy Reid extends best wishes to Le’Veon Bell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When last seen in a Chiefs uniform, guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif was celebrating a Super Bowl victory. After that, he put his medical degree to use battling the COVID-19 pandemic by serving at a long-term facility outside his native Montreal.“I think I was in the right place at the right moment, and I was able to put my medical training to use,” Duvernay-Tardif said this week.Duvernay-Tardif recounts his year away from football, including his new pursuit of a degree in public health at Harvard, in this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.Also, we hear from two other Chiefs, tight end Travis Kelce and defensive end Frank Clark, following the first day of the team’s mandatory minicamp.Story links:We know why Chiefs’ Laurent Duvernay-Tardif sat out 2020. Here’s what drew him backWhy Chiefs Frank Clark took took a self-exile from Twitter to focus on footballChiefs’ Kelce sees Cleveland Browns as threat in AFC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another slump for the Royals has them losers of nine of 10 and the latest setback was especially painful. In Monday’s 10-3 to the Detroit Tigers, the Royals went 1 for 14 with runners in scoring position and left 13 runners on base. In all, they had 18 base runners.Beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam Mellinger join Blair Kerkhoff in breaking down the Royals and what’s going wrong like the lack of clutch hitting, the inconsistency of young starting pitching and how injuries are starting to pile up. You’ll also hear from Mike Matheny and Whit Merrifield from last night’s game.Story links:“It’s just a bad run,” Royals fall behind early to Tigers, never recoverMellinger MInutes: More normal, more Royals struggles, and we get deepOption for Royals fans who have cut the cord is advancing but it may be costly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Quin Snyder led the Utah Jazz to the NBA’s best record this season and now has them in the Western Conference semifinals. Who’d have seen this coming after the way his tenure at Missouri ended 15 years ago?Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joined host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss the Snyder years at Missouri and how he reconstructed his career after he was ousted from Mizzou. The coaching road less traveled included stops in the NBA G League and Russia, but here he is, near the top of the NBA pinnacle.Story links:Quin Snyder’s career veered off track at Mizzou. Now he’s nearly at the NBA pinnacleDonovan Mitchell says that he’s fine, but it’s clear he playing through some pain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs wrapped up OTAs this week. Next stop: mandatory minicamp next week. Andy Reid and a handful of players addressed the media on Thursday and you’ll hear their comments in this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast hosted by Blair Kerkhoff.Reid provides an update on Kyle Long’s knee injury and elaborates on vaccinations for players. Second-year linebacker Willie Gay reminds us how difficult OTAs and minicamp were during last year’s pandemic-influenced offseason. Newcomers Joe Thuney and Jarran Reed offer observations about their new teammates, too.Story links:With team leaders paving way, Chiefs don’t worry about OTA participationThe latest on Kyle Long’s injury and what it means for the Chiefs’ O-line Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last month, Sporting Kansas City fell behind 1-0 to Austin FC and about 10 minutes remained in regulation. But Sporting got goals from Ilie Sanchez and Gadi Kinda to pull out the victory and they’ve been on fire since, climbing to second place in the MLS Western Division.Austin FC is the opponent on Saturday and beat writer Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost of WHB 810 AM—and new sideline reporter for Sporting—join host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss Sporting, along with KC NWSL and the U.S. Men’s National Team victory over Mexico on Sunday in the Nation’s League final.Story links:A victory over Austin kicked off Sporting KC’s red hot form. Here comes a rematch.Rumors fly: Will Gianluca Busio go overseas now. Player, coach address the chatterNine games into winless first season, KC NWSL needs to make most of its chances now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another vague Tyrann Mathieu tweet hit Twitter feeds Wednesday, and Chiefs fans could be getting nervous. This one read: “If they make me choose imma I choose to take it back to where it all started.”Mathieu tweet 0609Is he quoting a lyric, talking about a uniform number, or about his negotiations toward a new contract? The Chiefs are believed to be working on an extension for Mathieu. Last month, general manager Brett Veach said the process would begin after free agency and added, “Enough can’t be said about Tyrann and how we feel about him and his role both on and off the field here.”The tweet may be an interpretation that things aren’t moving fast enough for Mathieu, the star safety who signed a three-year, $42 million deal two years ago and has been a force for the Chiefs in two Super Bowl appearances.Last month, Mathieu deleted a tweet that was a response to an inquiry about getting an extension. “Probably not,” was part of the response before Mathieu hit the delete button.What about, where it all started? Is that Arizona, where his NFL career began? New Orleans, his hometown? On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell discuss Mathieu’s future with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Tyrann Mathieu explains deleted tweet about contract talks with Chiefshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article251734203.htmlTravis Kelce has special message for Chiefs draftees, especially tight end Noah Grayhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article251122509.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his major league debut, Jackson Kowar got a out on his second pitch. After that? Oof.Kowar didn’t make out of the first inning on Monday night against the Angels, and the discouraging first start is the primary topic on today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.The show, which started as a SportsBeat Live with beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian, also covers the latest on Adalberto Mondesi, who has returned to the injured list. What do make the the team’s most injury-prone player who also happens to arguably be their best?​Story links:Jackson Kowar can’t make it through the first inning of his major league debutAdalberto Mondesi goes on IL after missing fourth game in a row Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas City area has a pair of highly ranked basketball prospects in the Class of 2022, and Bishop Miege’s Mark Mitchell is ranked in the Rivals.com top 10, and Blue Valley’s Aiden Shaw is in the top 60. Both have Kansas and Missouri listed for visits, and Mitchell appears to be headed to Sunrise Christian Academy next season. Will Shaw also head to a prep school?Gary Bedore brings us up to date on the recruiting front, and Jesse Newell has some news about the latest additions to the KU football team — all from one school.After a break, Kellis Robinett talks Kansas State and the predicament of Kelly Stewart, the K-State grad who has made for herself as an oddsmaker in Las Vegas. Her contract with ESPN was recently pulled. Robinett has the latest.Story links:DiRenna Award winner Mark Mitchell to leave Bishop Miege for Sunrise ChristianJayhawks football lands three more transfers from BuffaloESPN fires former K-State student Kelly Stewart as betting analyst for deleted tweets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas City’s professional soccer teams, Sporting KC and KC NWSL, are moving in opposite directions. Sporting is on fire, the winner of three straight and climbing into second place in the MLS Western Division standings.KC NWSL is struggling. Winless in its four regular-season games, the expansion team has been held without a goal in three. Two draws means they’re only one victory away from moving up in the standings. Perhaps it comes on Sunday at Legends Field against Houston?Shaun Goodwin, who covers soccer for The Star, discusses the fortunes of the two teams with host Blair Kerkhoff in this episode of our daily Kansas City sports podcast, SportsBeat KC.Story links:Soccer moms: How KC women’s pro soccer players with kids balance duties of life, workBusio’s goal provides the spark for Sporting in KC’s home victory over the Houston Dynamo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are now in Phase 3 of their offseason program. There’s no live contact, so this is a time for the quarterbacks, wide receivers and defensive backs to make plays. It’s also a time for in-person meetings and classroom instruction, which makes it vital for rookies and other newcomers, including coaches.The Chiefs provided updates with reporters Thursday. Coach Andy Reid, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy and star QB Patrick Mahomes all took to the stage. As you might expect, Mahomes’ goal of a 20-0 record got plenty of attention, as did the new faces on the team’s offensive line and how the defense is emphasizing effort in the red zone.On today’s episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast, you’ll get to hear what they had to say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So, 20-0?What an accomplishment that would be, the greatest season in NFL history. Patrick Mahomes tossed it out there last weekend in an interview at his charity golf tournament in Hawaii. Not a bold statement or declaration, but in the context of wanting to set a team and not a personal record.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell join host Blair Kerkhoff in discussing the difficulty of the task and other Chiefs’ related topics, including the importance of new defensive tackle Jarran Reed.Story links:Ex-Chiefs player approves of Patrick Mahomes’ 20-0 goal for the Chiefshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article251806538.htmlHow Chiefs’ new O-line (aka protection for Mahomes) is getting acquaintedhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article251753358.htmlTravis Kelce intrigued by thought of Julio Jones joining KC Chiefshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article251683183.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Monday provided the full Adalberto Mondesi experience. He blasted a long home run, turned in a web gem. And suffered an injury. The Royals won the series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates to maintain their current pace. Can they keep it up if Mondesi’s hamstring requires down time?Beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss the Monedsi and all things Royals on today’s SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. We break down the latest developments with the lineup and rotation and wonder what the Royals need to do to keep pace in the AL Central. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City announced this week that former goalkeeper Jimmy Nielsen is a Sporting Legend and will be honored as such at a game next month. The team has a current player who is playing like a legend lately.And SKC striker Alan Pulido is on an amazing run. In the past two games, he’s scored three goals, assisted on another and had something to do with the other two. Sporting won both matches.In this episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast, Aly Trost of WHB 810 a.m., and Shaun Goodwin, who covers soccer for The Star, break down Pulido, Sporting KC and KC NWSL, which continues to seek its first victory but is looking sharp so far. Listen as we explain.Story links:Jaylin Lindsey scored first MLS goal as Sporting KC bakes the Quakes in San JoseAfter missing first-half chances KC NWSL is put away by Chicago in league home opener Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last season, the Chiefs owned the best record in football, but not all phases of the game worked as well as they could have. The team finished last in the NFL in red-zone defense, surrendering touchdowns on nearly 73 percent of opponents’ drives that reached the 20-yard line.Why is this significant in May? Safety Tyrann Mathieu and linebacker Anthony Hitchens said lowering that percentage has been the emphasis in the early days of organized team activities, or OTAs — voluntary offseason workouts.Also, Mathieu was asked about a tweet he deleted involving his contract. You’ll be interested in his response in this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily podcast about sports.Story links:Mahomes missed Day 3 of OTAs, but he’s been slinging it Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

College sports stands at the doorstep of one of the biggest changes in its history. Soon, athletes will be able to cash in on their name, image and likeness. The roll out for this change is messy. The NCAA has wanted Congress to pass legislation. But states are taking the initiative and five that have passed laws could enter this new world on July 1.Recruiting is a big concern, if some states get the jump on the new rule. But eventually, at every school athletes will be able to earn money for endorsements, autograph sessions, camps and other sources that had not been available.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Jesse Newell and columnist Vahe Gregorian talk about name image and likeness. How did we get here and how will college sports be impacted?Story links:Why KU, K-State are worried about falling behind Mizzou (and others) and others in sports recruiting.https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article251571963.htmlHow a former Shawnee Mission West linebacker is changing the college sports landscapehttps://www.kansas.com/sports/article251483608.html?bm-verify=AAQAAAAD_____6Ut1d4oEjyzsJluVqGOH585QM4PjnZjG4dxuYVnv4GQL3Ldlle_db0IokqT_--bm2ZEQ4cY6LZlwanEKzN6a1RnBZWMNc-iXw9lJkGd6DUt6HfFjKR7k2K2Y1Ga6414tDtI4I5yddodmS_phEiKewL1trNX2PL_F64k9kaeMlVLaFI7wbgRF6XHMwrV4G1owEKMbwoyWQetkR_pgrS0tQY41UbfrH8DYx8VMkx0rnAx9UAks2CO7osPl9H14oDH6H1IqBGm7QESPN: Everything you need to know about NCAA’s NIL debatehttps://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/31086019/everything-need-know-ncaa-nil-debate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The on/off Royals are on again, having won six of nine and the latest one in dramatic fashion. Carlos Santana’s walk-off two-run homer beat the Detroit Tigers on Sunday and moved the Royals to one game below .500.But look out. Next up is a trip to Tampa Bay where the Rays have won 11 straight. On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian break down the latest stretch of success and look ahead to this week.Also on the topic list: The next time the Royals play at Kauffman Stadium, there will be no limited seating. It will be the first time since 2019 that every ticket will be available for purchase.Story links:Keys to the series, game times, as Royals hit the road to play Tampa Bay RaysWhat sports leaders, and all of us, gain by encouraging, not demanding, vaccinationsMellinger MInutes: Are the Royals back? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick Mahomes’ turf toe injury that figures to limit his availability during organized teams activities that begin on Tuesday will be a national storyline for the Chiefs, but the real news will be found on the offensive and defensive lines. We’ll start to get a sense of how those stack up over the next few weeks.This is the spring football time for NFL teams, and no AFC team will be more interesting to follow than the two-time Super Bowl Chiefs. They have fewer questions than most teams and are considered the conference favorite once again. But there’s work to do. Beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell deliver the preview on today’s SportsBeat KC.Story links:Here are five situations to monitor as the Chiefs kick off OTAsHow a homegrown kid and former college walk-on got his chance with the ChiefsWhy the Chiefs coveted a rookie edge rusher who had zero sacks last seasonChiefs tweet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City is coming off its most impressive victory of the season, 3-0 against Vancouver, and looks to carry some momentum into Saturday’s game at San Jose. Beat writer Shaun Goodwin tells us what to expect as Sporting hovers near the top of the MLS Western Conference standings.Also, KC NWSL seeks its first victory on Sunday at Houston, where it previously dropped a Challenge Cup game. The team is coming off a scoreless draw in its opener. Also, how did Jordyn Listro go from selling medical supplies two years ago to a spot on the KC NWSL roster?After a break, you’ll hear from Sporting KC keeper Tim Melia, who missed the season’s first five games with an injury and what it meant to return to action last weekend — as well as what’s ahead.Story links:Two years ago, she was selling medical supplies. Now she’s a key piece of soccer in Kansas CityWith Melia back in goal, Sporting KC faces Wondo’s San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re deep into spring sports season and it’s … basketball recruiting season?Yes, with the transfer portal spinning, players continue to find new homes and Kansas landed a pair of high scoring transfers this week. Jalen Coleman-Lands averaged 14 points for Iowa State last season. Remy Martin led the Pac-12 in scoring, averaging 19 points for Arizona State.Both have committed to KU for their final. year of eligibility. There is some roster math to work out and beat writer Jesse Newell breaks it down with host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.Also on today’s show: With Paul Pierce now in the Naismith Hall of Fame, who will be the next coach or player with KU ties to enter the Hall, and how is new football coach Lance Liepold’s staff coming along?Story links:KU Jayhawks get another commitment, this time from former Iowa State guardWill Remy Martin make the NBA wait a year? That’s what it will take to play point at KansasNew KU football coach Lance Liepold announces new staff. Here’s who will be retained Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s SportsBeat KC, we catch up with Missouri Tigers coaches and administrators...in person. The occasion was the annual Tiger Takeover, a meet-and-greet with fans that happens in different corners of the state.Chicken N Pickle in North Kansas City was the local stop and for the first time in more than a year, football coach Eli Drinkwitz, men’s basketball coach Cuonzon Martin, women’s basketball coach Robin Pingeton and athletic director Jim Sterk mingled, posed for photos and had fun with the fan base in an outdoor setting.On today’s show, you’ll hear from Drinkwitz, who has made recent moves on his staff; Martin, who likes next season’s team even without stand players Jeremiah Tilmon and Dru Smith; and Sterk. The athletic director’s plate is always full, even more so after dealing with the pandemic and now name, image and likeness legislation passed in Missouri.You’ll hear background noise during the interview, even a server asking if we needed drinks. It was wonderful.Story links:Mizzou Tigers coaches talked sports with fans...in person. Here’s what they saidhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article251518963.htmlHow a former Shawnee Mission West linebacker is changing the college sports landscapehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/article251483608.htmlMissouri bill enabling college athletes to be paid for name, image and likeness is passedhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article251418738.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They’ve been the best of teams, they’ve been the worst of teams. And in just 40 games.After delivering a memorable April with baseball’s base record, the Royals managed to lose 11 straight in May. But that’s over now, and it’s fair to ask which of the Royals will we see more of going forward.Beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam Mellinger answer that question and more in this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast. (This particular program started as a SportsBeat Live show aired Tuesday morning.)We begin this episode by reviewing the Royals’ painful loss at the Chicago White Sox on Sunday. KC seemed poised to finish off their third victory in four games against the division leaders, only to have it slip from their grasp.Story links:Keys to the series, game times, pitching matchups as Royals host Mlwaukee Brewers for twoRoyals manager Mike Matheny on replay reviews: “I don’t know what they’re doing”Mellinger MInutes: Maskless at The K, Royals stabilize, Chiefs worries...and UFOs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs’ rookies got their first taste of the NFL during a weekend mini-camp.There weren’t as many first-year players as in previous offseasons, and there wasn’t contact. But coach Andy Reid said he was happy with the event, and we hear from him and the Chiefs’ first draft pick, second-rounder Nick Bolton from Mizzou, in this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast. You’ll also hear from Star beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell, who attended the mini-camp and heard what the rookies had to say.The Chiefs have several more organized team activities (OTA) events before their summer break hits, but this was an important one in terms of getting the Chiefs’ first-year players acclimated to the NFL.Story links:Chiefs conclude rookie mini-camp, leaving Andy Reid happy. Here’s whyChiefs rookie Trey Smith isn’t happy about the NFL Draft. But he’s moved onChiefs acquire cornerback Mike Hughes in trade with Minnesota Vikings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City followed perhaps its most inspired effort of the season, a 2-1 victory over Austin FC, with a listless 1-0 loss at Houston. But the team gets a chance to win the week with a home match Sunday.On today’s episode of SportsBeat KC, Aly Trost of SportsRadio 810 joins Shaun Goodwin in breaking down Sporting’s week and looking ahead to Saturday’s regular-season opener for KC NWSL. Also, the women’s team announced a roster addition that coach Huw Williams called “a difference-maker.”Then there’s Kansas City’s opportunity to show it’s soccer interest once again with the announcement that five Gold Cup games are coming to Children’s Mercy Park in July. What can this mean for the city’s bid to become a World Cup host in 2026?Story links:Looking for a fresh start, she could be just what KC NWSL coach orderedChildren’s Mercy Park will host three Gold Cup games feature U.S. team this summerHere is what Matt Besler wrote in letter he gave to Sporting KC supporters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You knew the opponents. Now you know the dates and kickoff times for the Chiefs’ 2021 schedule.Any surprises?On today’s episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, Chiefs beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell break down 17 games’ worth of an NFL schedule. One take: The Chiefs are favored to win a third straight AFC title and sixth straight division crown. They don’t look at the slate for soft spots or opportunities.Indeed, they look forward to the challenge of playing (fill in opponent).After a break, we discuss the Colts’ signing of tackle Eric Fisher, and the one-day contract presented to Tamba Hali and to make official his retirement as a forever-member of the franchise.Story links:Chiefs made a funny 2021 schedule video using Andy Reid’s oft-repeated phraseLet’s take a guided tour through the Chiefs’ 2021 regular-season scheduleTamba Hali is signing with the Chiefs again. Well, for one day, anyway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring football is over and roster building is all but finished. Next stop for college football is the 2021 season. On today’s SportsBeat KC, Kansas State beat writer Kellis Robinett looks ahead at the Wildcats and Big 12 season with host Blair Kerkhoff. Can this team, which lost its final five games last season after a 4-1 start, push to the top half of the Big 12?After a break, we switch to basketball and although the Wildcats finished with a dismal record (9-20), they played well at the end, pushed eventual NCAA champion Baylor in the Big 12 tournament, and there is reason to feel optimistic about next season.Story links:This week in K-State recruiting: Wildcats remain on lookout for football transfershttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article251291154.htmlCan Bruce Weber’s transfer-heavy roster reach NCAA Tournament next year?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article250633579.htmlK-State Wildcats baseball team still has work to do for NCAA Tournament invitehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article251159094.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maybe the day off is what the Royals need. They return to action tonight at Detroit in hopes of ending a losing streak made more painful because of where the team stood before the skid: In first place in the AL Central and with baseball’s top winning percentage.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star columnist Vahe Gregorian breaks down the malaise with host Blair Kerkhoff in a show that started as a SportsBeat Live. The conclusions: There are no quick fixes or new personnel moves that are going to change fortunes. The Royals must find a away to dig out of this with the players in the dugout.Story links:Key to the series, game times, as Kansas City Royals look to end slide in DetroitHere’s what behind the Kansas City Royals tumble in the AL standingsBetween brutal streak and extreme trends, real Kansas City Royals remain to be definedWith Kansas City Royals slumping badly, Hall of Famer George Brett has a suggestion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every May, Kansas City sports icons George Brett and Tom Watson get together for an event that they wished would go away. It’s the Joe McGuff ALS Golf Classic at LionsGate in Overland Park. And they want it to end because that means enough funds will have been raised to stamp out the disease.But Brett and Watson always answer the call to headline the annual event, and they discussed their relationship with the condition, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, along with several other topics. Brett had a suggestion on how the Royals could reverse their recent misfortune; Watson discussed the new sport that gets his competitive juices flowing and they spoke to each other on how they handled slumps.Story links:With Kansas City Royals slumping badly, George Brett has a suggestionGeorge Brett and a Johnson County ally ramp up Kansas City’s war in ALS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the greatest players to wear a Sporting KC uniform, Matt Besler, returns to Kansas City this weekend....as a member of Austin Football Club. What kind of reception will he receive?Also, Sporting stands at the forefront of developing and advancing homegrown talent. The Star’s Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost of 810 WHB explain why.We also take look back at KC NWSL’s first game at Legend’s Field. A beautiful goal by Mallory Weber got things started on the right foot but the team couldn’t avoid the setback. Still, a memorable night for the expansion club.Story links:Analysis: How and why, Sporting remains at the fore of MLS’s homegrown talenthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/sporting-kc/article251193959.htmlNew faces give KC NWSL a boost in first half but OL Reign prevails in Challenge Cuphttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/mls/fc-kansas-city/article251063894.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas football program now belongs to Lance Leipold. He’s the fifth head coach in a dozen year and his task is a daunting one, turning around a program that hasn’t won more than three games in a season since 2009.On today’s SportsBeat KC, you’ll hear from Leipold at his introductory news conference and from KU beat writer Gary Bedore, who has covered the Jayhawks for more than three decades. Is Leipold the guy who can turn things around in Lawrence?Also, no conversation with Bedore would be complete without updates on Kansas basketball. He brings the latest from the recruiting scene.Story links:Lance Leipold appears to be a sensible hire for Kansas. But...Five takeaways from KU football spring game and the position that stood outBasketball recruit TyTy Washington sets a decisiond date. Jayhawks are a finalist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It will take some time to properly evaluate the Chiefs’ draft haul. It always does. But if they can find a couple of immediate starters from the six they selected, and at least get contributions from the others, history tells us that 2021 will have been a successful draft.Last year, the draft produced starters Clyde Edwards-Helaire and cornerback L’Jarius Sneed. Two years ago, it was wide receiver Mecole Hardman and safety Juan Thornhill.Who could it be this season?On today’s episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, Star beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell share their draft thoughts, break down the picks and predict the immediate-impact players. Did the Chiefs address all of their needs, and what remains in terms of roster-building for the franchise that has appeared in the past two Super Bowls?Story links:Chiefs say they drafted best player available. But there’s more to it hereGrades for the Chiefs’ NFL Draft picks, plus analysis of each players’ fitChiefs receive mostly good NFL Draft grades from national writers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals remain in first place in the AL Central and Daniel Lynch was encouraging in his debut in Monday’s loss to Cleveland. But the Royals have lost three of four. Have they cooled off the hot April?That’s the topic on SportsBeat KC, a conversation with beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian. The show started as a SportsBeat Live with host Blair Kerkhoff.Also, Jakob Junis went to the bullpen to make room for Lynch in the starting rotation, a move that took him by surprise and he struggled out of the pen on Monday. Hear what the group said about this development.Story links:Here’s why Daniel Lynch’s debut with the Royals reflected promise to comeWhy did Royals move Jakob Junis to buillpen? Here’s Mike Matheny’s explanationDaniel Lynch’s debut highlighted by this pitch in Royals’ loss to Indians Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NFL Draft is in the books and six have joined the Chiefs. On today’s SportsBeat KC, we hear from some and about all of them.Missouri linebacker Nick Bolton and Oklahoma center Creed Humphrey were the team’s top two selections, both in the second round. Joining the draft class after that were Florida State defensive end Josh Kaindoh, Duke tight end Noah Gray, Clemson wide receiver Cornell Powell and Tennessee offensive lineman Trey Smith.Andy Reid kicks off today’s show by commenting on the first two selections. General manager Brett Veach sums up the draft and in between you’ll hear from Bolton and Humphrey.Story links:Grades for Chiefs’ NFL Draft picks, plus analysis of each player’s fitWith their final pick of the NFL Draft, Chiefs get even more help for O-lineFollow the Chiefs undrafted free agent signings with our live tracker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas has a new football coach. Again.Lance Leipold faces the considerable challenge of turning around a program coming off a winless season that hasn’t won more than three games in any year since 2009. Leipold comes from the University of Buffalo, where he took the program to three straight bowl games. Before that, he won six NCAA Division III championships at Wisconsin-Whitewater.Beat writer Jesse Newell breaks down the hire and details the task Leipold faces in this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.After a break, you’ll hear from Chiefs general manager Brett Veach, who met with the media late Thursday night after the first round of the NFL Draft. The Chiefs had traded their first-round pick to the Baltimore Ravens for tackle Orlando Brown, so for Veach and the Chiefs, the draft really begins Friday night. The Chiefs have two picks in the second round.Story links:KU hires Lance Leipold as football coach. Here’s what he did at BuffaloChiefs focus on NFL Draft Round 2 with two picks and “maximum flexibility”Here are five players the Chiefs could take in Round 2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gianluca Busio scored Sporting Kansas City’s lone goal in a 1-1 draw with Orlando City in last weekend’s home opener, and it was a beauty. On today’s SportsBeat KC with Star beat writer Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost of WHB 810, we talk Busio and his potential this season.KC NWSL approaches its fourth and final game in the Challenge Cup looking for its first victory of the season. What needs to happen for Kansas City’s newest team to pull off the triumph on Monday at Legends’ Field.Also, did you see Christian Pulisic’s goal for Chelsea this week against Real Madrid? It was the shot heard around U.S. soccer and we discuss its significance.Story links:Busio get it going for Sporting, but KC yields late goal in 1-1 tie against OrlandoWith milestone near, Sporting KC’s Peter Vermes reflects on his tenure in Kansas CityKC NWSL has festive first game, but Brittany, Patrick and scores of fans had a blast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the 58th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs select...Doesn’t have the same ring to it as, say, a single-digit number. But it’s a good thing for the Chiefs. They traded out of the first round to the Baltimore Ravens to land their left tackle in Orlando Brown Jr.So unless the Chiefs trade back into the first round, Thursday they’ll sit on the sidelines and watch the others to go work.Still, there is plenty to discuss about the Chiefs and the draft and we’re doing it on today’s SportsBeat KC with Star columnist Sam Mellinger and beat writer Sam McDowell.We talk about who might be available when the Chiefs draft in the second round - they have two picks in that round - will there be a surprise player available to them? What’s been the team’s recent success in the early around, and we’ll get some final thoughts on the Brown trade.Story links:A Kansas City draft primer: Setting the table for the Chiefs, minus a first-round pickhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article250889779.htmlThe Chiefs fixed the offensive line. Next? Address these needs in the drafthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article250969604.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Best. Record. In baseball.And not after three or four games. The Royals are 14-7, giving them a winning percentage just ahead of the Dodgers, Giants and A’s. Party like it’s 2015.On today’s SportsBeat show, KC Star columnist Sam Mellinger breaks down what’s going right and what could be better about Mike Matheny’s club, and how the second-year Royals manager is pushing all the right buttons.Also, beat writer Lynn Worthy found a moment while traveling with the team to provide an update on Salvador Perez’s thumb injury.Story links:Here’s why their fast start to this season has been crucial for the Kansas City RoyalsRoyals begin two game set in Pittsburgh: Game times and scouting reportMellinger Minutes: Orlando Brown’s drive, Royals keep winning and staying off your phone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The makeover of the Chiefs’ offensive line is complete. They filled their biggest need — left tackle — on Friday with a blockbuster trade with the Baltimore Ravens. The Chiefs got Orlando Brown Jr., a Pro Bowl player, in exchange for draft picks.The Chiefs are set to start next season with an entirely new offensive line than started the 2020 season and will have at least four new starters from the team that lost the Super Bowl. It’s also taken the edge off draft week. The Chiefs surrendered their first-round pick and don’t begin drafting until the second round.Beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell break down the trade, the biggest move of the Chiefs’ offseason, on today’s SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:The Chiefs changed their draft, team and prospects by trading for Orlando BrownOrlando Brown shares a message for Chiefs Kingdom after arriving in Kansas CityChiefs pull big trade for new left tackle. Details of the deal for Orlando Brown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No wonder the Chiefs’ media opportunity with general manager Brett Veach was delayed several times.On Friday, about 90 minutes after Veach spoke in generalities about the NFL Draft, work got out that the Chiefs had acquired offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr., from the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for their first-round draft pick, No. 31 overall. Several other draft picks were involved.It’s a wonder Veach didn’t let out a chuckle during the interview. It’s a huge move for the Chiefs. Left tackle was the priority since the team released Eric Fisher, whose absence form the Super Bowl was painfully felt by the Chiefs in their loss to Tampa Bay.Veach talks more than tackle here. You’ll hear what he says about drafting a wide receiver and singling out Byron Pringle as someone they’ll count on next year. Also discussed: the prospect of trading up, one position the team isn’t scouting, and the unique draft challenges created by the pandemic.Not discussed: The impending trade for Orlando Brown.Story links:Chiefs pull big trade for new left tackle. Details of the deal for Orlando Brownhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article250899744.htmlThree keys to keeping the Chiefs on track starting with the NFL Drafthttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/sam-mellinger/article250877644.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good recent results for Sporting KC and KC NWSL have us talking on SportsBeat KC with Aly Trost and Shaun Goodwin.OK, we’d discuss the games no matter the outcome, but it’s more fun this way, especially after the goals scored by Daniel Salloi and Amy Rodriguez.After a break, there’s plenty to say about the ill-fated European Super League, too. The breakaway alliance appears to be a lost cause for clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United, and that’s good news for Goodwin, a Liverpool native, and SportsRadio 810’s Trost, who grew up in St. Louis, which lost its NFL team operated by Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke.Story links:Kansas City NWSL stays alive in Challenge Cup with draw at ChicagoBoom-boom! Sporting Kansas City opens MLS season with 2-1 victory at New York Red BullsCBS Sports: European Super League collapse explained. What’s next? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three years ago, Steve Wilks path to highest level of football coaching was complete. After years of moving up the ladder, he became coach of the Arizona Cardinals. But the gig lasted only one season after a 3-13 record, and Wilks’ new path has brought him to Missouri, where he’s the Tigers’ defensive coordinator.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Wilks discusses his career, shares his feelings about how things ended in Arizona, and what’s in store for Missouri’s defense this season.After a break, you’ll hear from Mizzou athletic director Jim Sterk on the topic of name, image and likeness. There are many plans that address a college athlete’s ability to cash in on his or her name, at the federal and state level and it’s uncertain which one will be used. Sterk speaks generally about this game-changing rule in college sports.Story links:Once at top of coaching profession, Steve Wilks begins a new path at MissouriSen. Moran introduces bill to establish a bill for student athletes to receive compensation for name, image, likenessReps. Cleaver, Gonzalez unveil bipartisan bill grant name image and likeness rights to college athletes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly 10% of the baseball season has elapsed and the Royals are in first place. It’s the latest they’ve been atop the AL Central since 2016. What’s been going right lately? Starting pitching and Salvador Perez for starters.On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Sam Mellinger join host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss the Royals and wonder if they’re built to keep up these winning ways. This is happening while some key players are off to slow starts.Story links:Danny Duffy’s milestone strikeout comes in loss to the RaysMellinger Minutes: Alex Smith’s KC legacy, Royals momentum, Britt Reid and moreSalvador Perez strikes again as Royals win four-game series from Blue Jays at The K Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs have ideas about who will be their next starting left tackle. Patrick Mahomes doesn’t get to play as much golf anymore because he’s a daddy. And current Chiefs are still singing the praises of former teammate Alex Smith.In their first meeting with reporters since the Super Bowl loss in February, Mahomes, coach Andy Reid and safety Tyrann Mathieu provided updates on several key issues, including Reid’s take on the Britt Reid situation and his thoughts on O-line newcomers Joe Thuney and Kyle Long.Mahomes weighed in on his rehabilitated toe, the early season success of the Royals team in which he has an ownership stake and his mentality entering the offseason after a disheartening championship-game loss to Tampa Bay. And Mathieu talked about his contract status.You’ll hear from Mahomes and Reid on today’s episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City opens its 2021 season Saturday at the New York Red Bulls, and the team will be without regular goalkeeper Tim Melia. In steps 19-year-old John Pulskamp, making his MLS debut.Soccer writer Shaun Goodwin and Aly Trost, WHB Sports Radio 810 host and reporter, break down this development and other aspects of the game in this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, with host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, the topic turns to the KC NWSL, which made its debut a week ago with a loss to the Portland Thorns in the Challenge Cup tournament. There was plenty to like about an effort that included some chippy play at the end.Story links:Guess who’s starting in goal for Sporting Kansas City on Saturday? Hint: He’s just 19Kansas City NWSL makes its debut but is downed by Portland 2-1 in Challenge Cup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s go to the transfer portal to catch the latest updates in college basketball roster building … and reducing. That’s where we are, with more than 1,700 in the portal as of Thursday morning.Missouri coach Cuonzo Martin spent most of his meeting with reporters this week discussing the portal and its effects. The Tigers have lost six players, gained three and aren’t finished recruiting there.In this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast, you’ll hear from Martin on the game’s transfer culture and other topics involving Mizzou basketball.Story links:Transfer portal a new way of roster building for Mizzou and everyone elseList of 2021 men’s college basketball transfersOverland Park’s Joe Pleasant, NCAA Tournament hero, to transfer to Wichita State Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this week, former Chiefs assistant coach Britt Reid, the son of head coach Andy Reid, was charged with DWI in a crash two months ago that injured a 5-year-old girl. On today’s SportsBeat KC, Star reporter Glenn Rice joins beat writer Sam McDowell, columnist Vahe Gregorian and host Blair Kerkhoff in discussing the story and where it goes from here.After a break, beat writer Herbie Teope brings us up today on the latest team and NFL news. A handful of teams have announced they’re opting out of voluntary off-season workouts because of COVID-19 concerns. Is this something Chiefs players are considering? Also, with another mock draft on the horizon, who could the Chiefs be targeting with the No. 31 overall selection?Story links:Former Chiefs Coach Britt Reid charged with DWI crash that injured 5-year-old girlhttps://www.kansascity.com/news/article250564334.htmlVideo: See details of Britt Reid crash that injured 5-year-old girl in Kansas Cityhttps://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250633654.htmlNFL.com: Broncos, Seahawks, Buccaneers won’t take part in voluntary off season workoutshttps://www.nfl.com/news/broncos-seahawks-players-won-t-take-part-in-voluntary-offseason-workouts-over-co Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s going to be the Royals pitcher to stretch out a start? The rotation has produced fewer innings and a higher ERA than relievers for the Royals through eight games. The two starts of Brad Keller, who got the call on Opening Day, have been discouraging. In only two games, a Royals starter has pitched into the sixth inning.But enough has gone right for the Royals to split their first eight games and they continue one of their longest homestands of the season this week. Beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian join host Blair Kerkhoff in bringing you the latest on the Royals.Story links:Royals’ Salvador Perez 1,000 career hits in loss to AngelsTribute to Yordano Ventura is profound but it’s not the only change in Danny DuffyKyle Zimmer achieved a MLB first in the Royals’ resilient performance over the White Sox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices