SportsBeat KC

Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said he would have loved nothing better than to end the COVID-19 pandemic conversation and speak only to this football season. But the latest spike in numbers didn’t allow for that. So football and virus precautions were the primary topics on Big 12 Media Days on Wednesday.You’ll hear from Bowlsby on today’s SportsBeat KC, also from Kansas State beat writer Kellis Robinett and Wildcats football Coach Chris Klieman on various topics. K-State looks to upgrade its receiving corps and improve its defense from last year’s 4-6 team that scored one of the season’s crazy’s outcomes when it defeated Oklahoma by scoring the game’s final 24 points.Story links:Five noteworthy things K-State football coach Chris Klieman said at Big 12 Media Dayshttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/kansas-state/article252751168.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals went young and local with their first few selections in this week’s major league draft, which concluded Tuesday.KC’s first-round selection, left-handed pitcher Frank Mozzicato, was a surprise based on projections. But the Royals’ second and fourth overall picks, Blue Valley Southwest pitcher Ben Kudrna and Park Hill catcher Carter Jensen, are fairly well known around here.What does the youthful trend signal about the Royals? In this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, beat writer Lynn Worthy joins columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian to discuss the draft and other events associated with All-Star week, including Salvador Perez’s terrific performance in the Home Run Derby and why Royals fans were upset with ESPN’s coverage.Story links:Royals fans rip ESPN for coverage of Salvador Perez at Home Run DerbySalvador Perez sets a record for catchers at Home Run DerbyRoyals draft Connecticut high schooler with seven pick. Here are the detailsRoyals select local high school standouts with second and third round picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During this period of international soccer action — Euro, Copa, Gold Cup and more — the biggest world event was a conversation topic in Kansas City on Monday.The city’s bid be a host site for the 2026 World Cup got a lead image as the KC2026 Bid Committee partnered with OUTFRONT Media to create a wallscape that measures 90 x 90 feel on the north-facing side of the building at 1627 Main Street.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Sporting Kansas City director of marketing Aaron Borns and Kansas City Sports Commission president and CEO Kathy Nelson take us inside Kansas City’s World Cup bidding process.After a break, you’ll hear from Gianluca Busio, who made his USMNT debut on Sunday night in the U.S.’s 1-0 victory over Haiti in the Gold Cup opener at Children’s Mercy Park. Busio, 19, spoke to reporters on Friday about his feelings of representing the United States for the first time.Story links:Sporting KC’s Busio adapting, impressing at USMNT Gold Cup camp ahead of Sunday’s matchU.S. Men’s National Team opens Gold Cup soccer run in Kansas City with win over Haiti Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reaction to our list of the top 25 greatest games in Kansas City sports history has been strong. The story was posted on KansasCity.com last weekend and appeared in the Tuesday editions of The Star and many generally agreed with the choices and enjoyed the trip down memory lane.A common thought among those who disagreed was our omission of Chiefs regular season games. One was included: The Joe Montana-led victory at Denver on Monday Night Football in 1994. We consider several more.On today’s SportsBeat KC, Pete Grathoff and host Blair Kerkhoff discuss the list with columnist Vahe Gregorian and Chiefs beat writer Sam McDowell. The podcast was recorded before the stories appeared in the newspaper and on the website.Story link:Check out these 25 best ever games involving Kansas City-area teams. What did we miss?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/article252521933.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas City will feel like the nation’s soccer center over the next couple of weeks.Sporting Kansas City remains molten-hot, collecting a 2-0 victory at the Los Angeles Galaxy last weekend. KC NWSL didn’t just earn a 1-1 draw with FC Gotham, it did so in style with a goal by Mariana Larroquette that made ESPN’s top plays highlights for the day.Add to that the arrival of Gold Cup group play at Children’s Mercy Park starting Sunday with the U.S. Men’s National Team, and it’s a packed schedule. We talk about all of it on this episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast with guests Shaun Goodwin, Cora Hall and Briar Napier.Story links:KC NWSL breaks skid, gains point on Larroquette goal from distance that tied Gotham 1-1Sporting KC scores two late, earns three points at LA Galaxy and takes lead in West raceGold Cup games in KC: It’s homecoming for this U.S. Men’s National Team player Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas Jayhawks didn’t add a new player to their basketball roster over the past week, they simply kept the ones who were eligible to return. And those players could push KU to a preseason No. 1 ranking.The latest to withdraw their names from the NBA Draft consideration are Ochai Agbaji and Arizona State transfer Remy Martin. Late last week, Jalen Wilson made the same decision.The conclusion: KU will be loaded for 2021-22.On today’s episide of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, beat writers Jesse Newell and Gary Bedore discuss recent news and what it means for the Jayhawks and coach Bill Self.Story links:Remy Martin’s dad says it’s disappointing NBA didn’t invite son to G League campMarcus Garrett likes KU’s chances in 2021-22: “Best team in the country now.”Ochai Agbaji withdraws from NBA Draft and will return to KU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Catching up with the Royals means breaking down the latest news. Andrew Benintendi is back, or at least he was for one game. Brad Keller and Mike Minor pitched well the previous two games but the Royals lost them both. Salvador Perez is in the Home Run Derby, and Bobby Witt Jr. and Nick Pratto will be in the Futures Game.Looking ahead, what should the Royals objectives be now that the season has crossed the midway point? In last place in the AL Central, is it time to look ahead to 2022 and start reshaping the lineup and rotation?On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss that topic and more with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Reds get to Mike Minor quickly in seventh, and Royals lose series openerRoyals general manager Dayton Moore on losing: “I’m not making excuses for anybody.”Check out these 25 best-ever games involving Kansas City-area teams What did we miss? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a Kansas City and baseball treasure ... and so is its, president Bob Kendrick. Fortunate are those whose tours through the building at 18th and Vine are led by this man.And now, Kendrick and the museum are bringing its history to the digital world.Negro Leagues 101 is a daily video collection that commemorates the 101st anniversary of the establishment of the Negro Leagues. Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association don’t often see eye to eye, but they do for this project.On today’s episode of SportsBeat KC, our landmark 500th in The Star’s daily KC sports podcast series, Kendrick sits down with host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss that project and other topics, too, such as the importance of incorporating Negro Leagues numbers into MLB’s stats. And no conversation with Bob would be complete without discussing Buck O’Neill.Story links:Black Diamonds: Podcast showcasing Negro League historyNegro Leagues 101 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting Kansas City can’t seem to lose these days. And they’re winning dramatically with their tendency to fall behind early. It helps to have players like Gianluca Busio, who has been named to the national team that will play in the Gold Cup next week.On today’s SportsBeat KC, The Star’s soccer coverage team of Shaun Goodwin, Briar Napier and Cora Hall join host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss Busio and what might be his short future with Sporting KC as he’s getting more interest from European clubs. Also, KC NWSL is getting closer to victory but can’t get over the hump.We wrap up talking the compelling Euro 2020 and one of the group has a strong rooting interest. (Hint: He’s from Liverpool).Story links:Sporting KC’s Busio gets the call, will play for U.S. at home later this monthWomen’s soccer fandom in KC, where advocacy, inclusion, devotion take front-row seats Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are off running camps and playing charity basketball games in this time between mandatory mini-camp and training camp but the conversation never ends. On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Sam McDowell and columnist Vahe Gregorian discuss Frank Clark and the defensive end position, and what is like to be the NFL favorite according to oddsmakers.Yes, the Chiefs are the top choice, and this stretch of expectation is new to Kansas City sports fans. Our teams have won championships but they’ve rarely been widely acknowledged as the league’s best. It’s a different feeling, a superiority complex? How will the Chiefs and their fans handle it?Story links:Thanks to Travis Kelce, Chiefs fans will get free beer this fallhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article252434048.htmlTyreek Hill and Chiefs teammates put on show at charity basketball gamehttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/for-petes-sake/article252415623.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Change has come to the Kansas City Royals. Nothing major, but manager Mike Matheny moved Jorge Soler to No. 2 in the batting order and created a hybrid responsibility for Danny Duffy. On today’s SportsBeat KC, beat writer Lynn Worthy and columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger break down the moves with host Blair Kerkhoff.Also, the championship round of the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, provides the opportunity to discuss Vanderbilt starting pitcher Kumar Rocket, a popular choice for the Royals in mock brackets. The baseball draft starts on July 11.Story links:Emmanuel Rivera makes an immediate mark for Royals in major league debutRoyals jostle lineup, batting order in hopes of igniting offense against Red SoxMellinger Minutes: Let’s have an honest conversation about the Royals. Also: nonsense Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every time he pulls on a USA shirt, U.S. Women’s National Team coach Vlatko Andonovksi feels pressure. He wouldn’t have it any other way.Andonovski is preparing the national women’s soccer team for the Olympics next month in Tokyo, a competition the U.S. is favored to win. That’s the case no matter the event, but the stakes are higher for the two-time defending World Cup champions. In the previous Olympics, the U.S. didn’t reach the podium.Andonovski, who calls Kansas City home and coach’s the city’s former NWSL team to two league championships, spoke with Star columnist Vahe Gregorian and SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff earlier this month about the excitement of the task, the pressure, his life in Kansas City and more.The interview was recorded before the 18-member Olympic team was selected. The final roster was announced last week and here to introduce it on today’s show is none other than Coach Ted Lasso and his AFC Richmond assistant Coach Beard. Actors Jason Sudikis and Brandon Hunt had the honors on social media last week.Story links:He’s Vlatko: How a Kansas City treasure will represent U.S., city at Olympics in TokyoVlatko Andonovski names 2020 U..S Olympics Women’s soccer team Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was a 3-1 final-score week for Kansas City soccer teams. Sporting Kansas City came out on top, while KC NWSL did not.In this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, we talk about both teams’ results with Shaun Goodwin, Cora Hall and Briar Napier.Once again, Daniel Salloi was the story for Sporting KC. He played one of his best games yet on Wednesday, befuddling the Colorado Rapids with two goals and an assist.KC NWSL, meanwhile, got on the board at home for the first time in the regular season and took a rare lead with Marianna Larroquette’s goal. But the Orlando Pride quickly responded, then scored twice more in the second half.We talk about these games, the teams’ upcoming schedules and take a stab at who will win Euro 2020.Story links:Daniel Salloi’s two goals and an assist push Sporting Kansas City past Colorado Rapids.Peter Vermes’ connection to Hungarian soccer about more than signings, family storiesKC NWSL scores first home goal of the season, but a former KC star lifts Pride Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Name, image and likeness...expanded College Football Playoff...Supreme Court ruling, so many changes are coming to college sports. How will they impact the schools?Kansas State beat writer Kellis Robinett and SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff discuss the changes and how it affects the Wildcats on today’s show.K-State, like many schools, has been active in the transfer portal, and the odd path of a football newcomer appears to have concluded with good news for the WIldcats.Story links:Previous Supreme Court case against NCAA created conditions for latest conditionsK-State Q&A: Thoughts on more football transfers and Manhattan’s recruiting appealWildcats, Tigers and even Jayhawks in College Football Playoff? It would have happened Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chiefs defensive end Frank Clark has been arrested twice in the off-season with similar circumstances. In March and last Sunday he was stopped while driving in California and both times a gun was visible in the vehicle. That’s a felony in California. Both times, Clark posted a $35,000 bond.Next is consideration of the incidents by the team and the NFL, which can suspend a player. Unlawful possession of a weapon outside the workplace is covered under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy.Beat writer Sam McDowell speaks with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff about the incidents. McDowell is covering the news for The Star and has spoken to the Los Angeles Police Department, along with gathering comments from the NFL and Chiefs.Story links:NFL reviewing Frank Clark gun arrests. What we know about his situationhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/nfl/kansas-city-chiefs/article252279428.htmlNFL Personal Conduct Policyhttps://www.gloriaallred.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1200518/2021/01/Commissioner-Goodell-NFL-Personal-Conduct-Policy-09-29-14.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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