SportsBeat KC

The baseball playoffs have started ... without the Royals. That means it’s time to wrap up the season. Manager Mike Matheny said the young starting pitching and bullpen improvement over last year were season highlights and knows the team has to get better offensively. The team’s success in the second half was partly due to the ability to get runners on and move them around. Matheny wants to see more of that next year.After a break, you’ll hear from Patrick Mahomes, who reviewed the Monday victory over the Ravens, looked ahead to Sunday’s game against the Patriots and fielded a couple of questions about fatherhood.One of Mahomes’ four touchdown passes against the Ravens was throwing to tackle Eric Fisher, and Fish gets the last word on SportsBeat KC today, describing the experience.Story links:OK, so how did it go? Royals general manager weighs in on club performance in 60-game seasonChiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and fiancee Brittany Matthews announce they’re expecting a baby Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kansas City Chiefs entered Monday’s game at the Baltimore Ravens as underdogs. After all, the Ravens had won 14 consecutive regular-season games and are led by reigning MVP Lamar Jackson.But the Chiefs were the better-prepared team. Patrick Mahomes had one of his best days in a Chiefs uniform, the defense bottled up Jackson and the KC prevailed 34-20.The Star’s A-team of Vahe Gregorian, Sam Mellinger, Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell, plus colleague Pete Grathoff and SportsBeat Live host Blair Kerkhoff, bring you this breakdown of all the action. Who besides Mahomes stood out? Why do the Ravens have so much trouble with the Chiefs, and did the outcome stamp Kansas City as the Super Bowl favorite?Plus, the group answers your questions and responds to your comments from the audience.Story links:The Chiefs beat the Ravens but that’s no longer the standard. Why the bar is higherChiefs victory over Ravens reiterates aura of invincibility they are buildingHere’s what we learned about the Chiefs in their Monday Night win at BaltimorePatrick Mahomes shames his No. 4 NFL ranking with his play...and perhaps a gestureRavens fans lament losing again to the Chiefs, tip cap to Patrick MahomesChiefs grades: An honor roll type of game for Patrick Mahomes and Coach Spags’ defense Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A funny thing happened to Oklahoma on its way to another blowout victory at home. Kansas State scored the game’s final 24 points and pulled off an upset of the third-ranked Sooners.How did the Wildcats do it?Beat writer Kellis Robinett, who covered the game in Norman, stops by The Star’s daily sports podcast, SportsBeat KC, to break down the first road victory by a K-State team over a top-three opponent with show host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce shares his thoughts about the team’s huge game Monday night at Baltimore. The Chiefs and Ravens appear to be the top teams in the AFC.Baltimore is riding a 14-game regular-season winning streak and the Chiefs are Super Bowl champions. It’s not too early to think about how this game will influence playoff seeding this season.Story links:“I live for big games.” How Skylar Thompson keeps leading K-State to signature upsetsHow a firey halftime speech from Chris Klieman helped K-State upset third-ranked OklahomaThis Chiefs player served his two-game suspension. He could be a difference-maker Monday Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where can the Chiefs and Ravens do damage to each other in their huge Monday Night Football clash? The Star’s A-Team of Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell, Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian break it down on SportsBeat KC.The conversation on our daily sports podcast, which started its life as a SportsBeat Live video installment, provides Chiefs injury updates, looks at the budding Patrick Mahomes-Lamar Jackson rivalry and identifies yet another advantage for Mahomes besides his strong arm and great decision-making.Finally, the group comes up with predictions for the game and provides their favorite sports movies.Story links:For all of Patrick Mahomes elite traits here’s one more: his voice. Let us explainForget Brady-Manning: Mahomes-Jackson is a QB matchup the NFL has never seenChiefs prediction: NFL’s best face off when Chiefs meet Ravels. QBs sure, but also... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Countdown to the showdown in Baltimore continues as the Chiefs and Ravens continue working toward their Monday Night Football encounter. On SportsBeat KC, Patrick Mahomes talks about the game and looks back to last weekend’s victory against the Los Angeles Chargers.You’ll hear Mahomes and later Chiefs Coach Andy Reid give a shout out to Royals outfielder Alex Gordon, who announced his retirement from baseball today after 14 seasons in Kansas City.Also, we get the Ravens’ perspective from Nestor Aparicio of WNST in Baltimore. He’s covered the city’s sports scene for decades as a newspaper reporter and radio host. Nobody loves Baltimore, the city, more than Aparicio.Story links:Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes pay tribute to Alex GordonRoyals World Series star, Gold Glove defender Alex Gordon announces his retirementTwo of Mahomes’ biggest yardage games were against the Ravens. But do Chiefs have the edge? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

College football’s biggest weekend approaches with conference games set for the Big 12 and SEC. On SportsBeat KC, beat writers Souichi Terada (Missouri), Kellis Robinett (Kansas State) and Gary Bedore (Kansas) break down their games, which begins with the prospect of playing the games in this pandemic season.The assignments are rugged with the Tigers playing host to No. 2 Alabama in Eli Drinkwitz’s debut as Mizzou’s coach; the Wildcats visiting No. 3 Oklahoma after losing their opener two weeks ago in an upset; and KU traveling to Baylor, which owns a 10-game winning streak against the Jayhawks.Also, Bedore and host Blair Kerkhoff remember Gale Sayers, the “Kansas Comet” whose death at age 77 was announced on Wednesday. For a high school project, Bedore interviewed Sayers and shares that experience.Story links:Past, present KU Jayhawks react to death of Gale Sayers: “We’ve lost somebody special.”Five takeaways from Mizzou’s Week 1 depth chart ahead of Alabama gameKansas State quarterback Skylar Thompson slowed by injuries as Oklahoma looms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chiefs-Ravens on Monday Night Football on Week 3? Yes, please. The top two AFC contenders that matches the previous two NFL MVPs, Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson, take center stage, and we’re here to take a first look in SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, with columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian.The Chiefs have defeated the Ravens in each of the previous two season, both games at a packed Arrowhead Stadium. This one will be in an empty stadium in Baltimore. Both teams are 2-0 and share a common opponent in the Houston Texans.What are the keys, who needs to step up and how will this one go? Vahe and Sam begin to answer those questions.Story link:Mellinger Minutes: Chiefs’ C+, Butker’s breakout, Chiefs as new Patriots and much moreChiefs, Chargers made like a road trip like no other for veterans sportswriters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just another ho-hum victory for the Chiefs on Sunday? Uh, no. Playing the Los Angeles Chargers in the team’s first game in its new home, the $5 billion SoFi Stadium, the Chiefs got off a slow start and fell behind by 11 points in the second half. But as they did throughout last season’s Super Bowl run they battled back. This time, forcing overtime before taking the 23-20 triumph.Quarterback Patrick Mahomes was clutch and his long touchdown pass to Tyreek Hill and two-point conversion toss to Mecole Hardman in the fourth quarter go on his highlight reel.But the game’s hero was kicker Harrison Butker, who booted three field goals, including a 58 yarder to win the game. It was his second 58 yard field goal of the contest. That distances matched the team record.After the game, the Chiefs coverage team of Sam Mellinger, Vahe Greorgian, Sam McDowell, Herbie Teope and Pete Grathoff joined SportsBeat Live host Blair Kerkhoff and breaking down the game’s highs and lows. After a break, you’ll hear from Butker and his confidence in the game-winning attempt.Story links:Chiefs beat Chargers with less than their best. But now what?Even when they look like they’re out of it, well, the Chiefs aren’t really out of itHarrison Butker finds great moments to add depth to his kicking gameHow one Patrick Mahomes throw got Chiefs back to playing like their old selvesChiefs Andy Reid raises concerns about Chargers “very questionable” hit on Sammy Watkins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals are rolling. Probably too late to climb back into the playoff picture but this feels different than taking on victories at the end of a losing season. The starting pitching has been superb, led by rookie Brady Singer, and the development of young arms are an encouraging sign for the future.Beat writer Lynn Worthy talks about the recent stretch and what lies ahead for the Royals in their final 10 games on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. Another topic: the interruption in Danny Duffy’s season after missing a team flight earlier this week.After a break we’ll hear from Chiefs defensive end Frank Clark, who picked up where he left off last season—feeling healthy and playing well.Story links:Brady Singer follows no-hit bid with dominant outing against the TigersRoyals announce Danny Duffy will return to the pitching rotation in the next seriesYou can see the Royals improving. But is it enough? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SportsBeat KC originated as a video program on Thursday, when beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell joined columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian in breaking down the Chiefs’ opening game victory and looking ahead to Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Chargers.Also, operating the Chiefs offense without big plays, having a defense that’s ahead of the pace compared to last year’s unit, injury updates, and a peek ahead to the opponent the following week — the Baltimore Ravens — are all covered.Plus we take questions and comments from the audience. And the A-Team reveals its favorite fast food items and highway stops.Story links:Chiefs’ Mahomes MVP year. A Super Bowl title run. And now the Chiefs offense is...better?Why teammates told Patrick Mahomes he had one of his best games in Chiefs openerChiefs’ Charvarius Ward among trio of players not to practice on WednesdayChiefs coach Andy Reid is defogging, but pandemic football means more oddities aheadChiefs prediction: No Rivers to pick on (or pick off) Sunday for the Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick Mahomes averaged 301 passing yards per game in his career. So when he delivered 211 through the air against the Houston Texans in the opener, that had to be marked as a sub-standard effort, right? Wrong. Mahomes’ passer rating (123.3), completion percentage (75.0) and three touchdowns in a game that wasn’t in doubt after halftime showed an ability to win a game without an eye-popping yardage total.Mahomes discusses the performance on Wednesday in a conference call with reporters and after an introduction by beat writer Sam McDowell, you’ll hear all of Mahomes’ comments on SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast. After a break Andy Reid covers several topics in his meeting reporters.Story links:Mahomes’ MVP year. A Super Bowl title run. And now the Chiefs offense is....better?Big Red has won 11 of 12 against the Chargers. Remember, they too wanted him in 2013 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was a rough start for Kansas State and other Big 12 programs as college football, battling through COVID-19, opened around the conference last weekend. Beat writer Kellis Robinett joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff to break down what went wrong in the Wildcats’ 35-31 loss to Arkansas State, and talk about how their issues can be fixed.The Wildcats weren’t alone. Kansas and Iowa State were knocked off by Sun Belt Conference opponents, too. A great day for that conference, a lousy one for the Big 12.After a break, K-State coach Chris Klieman checks in. He met with reporters earlier in the day to give his assessment of last weekend’s game and a look ahead at the next — a difficult one — at Oklahoma on Sept. 26.Story links:“There are no excuses:” Why K-State’s loss to Arkansas State was frustrating to Chris KliemanGame day atmosphere much different than usual for K-State’s loss to Arkansas StateMellinger MInutes: Love letter to sports, Chiefs look *really* good, Royals improvement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you didn’t find sports to watch this weekend, you weren’t trying. The NFL, college football, baseball, NBA playoffs, Stanley Cup playoffs, U.S. Open tennis, MLS soccer and more were all in action.Late summer is always a busy time on the sports calendar. The coronavirus has made it even more so. That made for plenty of discussion topics for columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger, starting with how the NFL and sports are handling attendance. The consensus: The Chiefs did it well for their opener last Thursday.Also on the docket: how we watch NFL games through a Chiefs prism, the rough start for Kansas State and Kansas football, and sizzling Royals and Aldaberto Mondesi. We talk about it all on this episode of Sportsbeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Game day atmopshere much different than usual for K-State’s loss to Arkansas StateIt’s just one week, but Clyde Edwards-Helaire looks like a different maker for ChiefsA career first for Brad Keller as Royals complete sweep and win sixth straight Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What night at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs gave the 16,000 fans plenty to cheer for in a 34-20 victory over the Houston Texans. And some boos were heard during the pregame statement by players from both teams displaying unity.Today’s SportsBeat KC originated as a SportBeat Live, a discussion of all things Chiefs, among The Star’s coverage team of Sam McDowell, Vahe Gregorian, Sam McDowell and Sam Mellinger.The big games by rookies Clyde Edwards-Helaire and L’Jarius Sneed, Patrick Mahomes spreading the wealth in a short passing attack, the overall quality play of the defense and other topics are fair game for the A-team.Story links:The Chiefs beat a very good team and then said things like: “I’m pissed off”Chiefs’ opening win tarnished by ugliness of some fans booing during moment of silenceNo hangover for Super Bowl champion Chiefs, who soundly hammer Texans in season openerChiefs report card: Reid’s team win openers. Here’s how they graded out ThursdayIt’s just one week but Clyde Edwards-Helaire looks like a difference-for Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game day has arrived, so let’s talk Chiefs.In this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, rookie running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire discusses the anticipation of his NFL debut. It’s interesting to hear what he expects from himself against the Houston Texans.After a break, NFL Network talent checks in and talks about the Chiefs and the NFL’s opening weekend. Michael Irvin speaks to the challenges of repeating as Super Bowl champion. His Cowboys won three Super Bowls in four years in the 1990s. Kurt Warner comments on Patrick Mahomes, where the start quarterback goes from here and where he can improve.Broadcaster Rich Eisen and former coach Steve Mariucci discuss the challenges of playing football in a COVID-19 world — empty or near-empty stadiums, pandemic fears, a bizzare offseason and more.Story links:The Chiefs have a plan for the chop, and it’s subtle. Here’s what’s in store for ThursdayThe Chiefs want to expand Mecole Hardman’s role. He could be a factor in the openerNFL debut of Clyde Edwards-Helaire has arrived. That’s thrilling for several reasons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How many games will the Chiefs win? How many touchdown passes with Patrick Mahomes throw? The NFL opener between the Chiefs and Houston Texans is the ideal time to pose those questions on SportsBeat Live with The Kansas City Star’s A-Team of Herbie Teope, Sam McDowell, Sam Mellinger, Vahe Gregorian and host Blair Kerkhoff.Hopes are high for a Super Bowl repeat, although that hasn’t happened in the NFL since 2004. Here, our group discusses how that might and might not occur. Also, what newcomers could make an impact? And how did not having preseason games affect the Chiefs? We also catch up on news around the AFC West and take viewers’ questions.Story links:Here’s what Chiefs fans can expect to see on TV when watching Thursday’s openerHow comebacks defined Chiefs’ Super Bowl run and what that says about this seasonNFL debut of Chiefs’ Edwards-Helaire has arrived. That’s thrilling for several reasons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By Tuesday, two games had been removed from this Saturday’s Big 12 football schedule because of COVID-19. But they didn’t involved Kansas State or Kansas. Their seasons are set, for now, to open this weekend against non-conference opponents.It’s unlikely that the Wildcats and Jayhawks — and nearly every college football team that takes the field this season — will be at full strength because of the pandemic. Coaches Chris Klieman and Les Miles have said they’re missing players in practice this week.But ready or not, the Big 12 season is about to begin. Beat writers Kellis Robinett and Jesse Newell discuss the latest college football issues and the teams they cover with host Blair Kerkhoff on this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Chris Klieman dealing with roster unknowns as Kansas State prepares for opening gameBreaking down the five biggest surprises on Kansas State’s depth chart for Week 1Five bold predictions and game-by-game picks for Kansas State’s 2020 football seasonKansas Jayhawks football: 5 bold predictions and game-by-game picks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game week has arrived for the Super Bowl champion Chiefs, who take on the Houston Texans Thursday to open the NFL’s Kickoff Weekend.Quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and DeShaun Watson square off for the first time as the NFL’s two richest quarterbacks by virtue of summer contract extensions.Like all NFL teams, the Chiefs and Texans had to pare their rosters to 53 players Saturday, but with a Thursday game they’ll have had less time than other organizations to work with their final rosters. On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily podcast, general manager Brett Veach breaks down some of the Chiefs’ more difficult roster trimming decisions.You’ll also hear from Mahomes, who speaks on a variety of topics, including the Chiefs’ readiness to defend their championship.Story links:How the Chiefs made their toughest roster decision: Speaks, Wharton, WR, RB and moreFirst Chiefs depth chart reveals three possible starters who weren’t on Super Bowl team Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Conferences playing college football in the fall will have started by Sept. 12, except for the SEC.The nation’s top football conference is waiting until Sept. 26 to kick off. That means more time for Missouri to get work under new head coach Eli Drinkwitz. What can the Tigers get done in the next three weeks? Polish up the offense, for starters.Mizzou beat writer Souichi Terada talks Tigers on this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, with host Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, you’ll hear from Shaun Goodwin, who covers Sporting KC for The Star. The club is coming off a 1-1 draw with FC Dallas, but the game will likely be remembered for the lineup changes made, and the young midfielders played by coach Peter Vermes.Story links:Mizzou’s cornerbacks are making life hard for the MU offense, and that’s not a bad thingA call for unity: Why Mizzou athletes organized a peaceful march for racial equalitySporting KC settles for draw vs. Dallas in midweek showdown at Children’s Mercy ParkA Sporting KC stalwart, sandwiches and high school sports. Here’s how they’re connected Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of the Chiefs’ big roster decisions were made in the form of contract extensions or restructuring, plus a draft the team counted as successful. But cut down day arrives on Saturday and the Super Bowl champion will have to let go of some candidates to trim the roster from 80 to 53. The opener is only five days later, against the Houston Texans.Who’s on the bubble? The Chiefs have some interesting choices to make especially at wide receiver and defensive end. Special teams likely will come in to play in the process. It hasn’t helped players in camp for the first time that there was no preseason games. Their game isn’t on tape.Chiefs beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell along with Star columnist Sam Mellinger and SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff break down the roster, specuate on the cuts, discuss the impending contract extensions of Andy Reid and Brett Veach and more.Story links:As deadline nears, Chiefs’ roster decisions are harder this year. Who makes the cut?The specific life experiences that prepped Patrick Mahomes for stardom with the Chiefs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six days after releasing a fall football schedule, the Big Ten announced it wouldn’t have a season.That was three weeks ago and there has been plenty of blowback since, especially from Nebraska. A group of eight Huskers football players filed a lawsuit claiming the Big Ten’s decision was invalid.On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, Omaha World-Herald columnist Tom Shatel joins host Blair Kerkhoff in breaking down a stretch so wild that both presidential candidates have become involved. Why? The Big Ten footprint includes such election battleground states as Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Iowa and Pennsylvania.Notice the candidates haven’t said much about the Pac-12 shutting down for the fall.Shatel discusses why Nebraska isn’t playing nice with the Big Ten and why some playing options for this academic year are better than others.Story links:Tom Shatel: Omaha World-HeraldNebraska fully committed to Big Ten. So no rogue football schedule Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The question last week — would the Royals move any major pieces before baseball’s trade deadline? — was answered in the affirmative. Closer Trevor Rosenthal, who had regained the form that made him an All-Star in St. Louis, was traded to the Padres.The Royals, it seems, have 2021 and beyond in mind.Rosenthal’s gone, but the KC bullpen, perhaps the most improved part of this year’s team, still turned in a superb performance in Monday’s 2-1 victory over the Cleveland Indians. Greg Holland picked up his first save at Kauffman Stadium in a Royals uniform since 2015.In this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in a conversation about where the Royals go from here, and you’ll hear from Holland, too.Story links:Royals stand pad on trade deadline day, and stop short on going all in on tankingRoyals announce they are canceling 2021 FanFest, announce dates for 2022 eventBubba Starling comes through with a clutch hit and Greg Holland closes out a 2-1 win over Cleveland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The strangest of training camps has ended for the Chiefs and focus turns to Saturday’s cut down date and the season opener the following Thursday against the Houston Texans. Before looking ahead, beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell join SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff and gaze back at the camp that took place for the first time at the team’s practice facility at the Truman Sports Complex because of the coronavirus.Who stood out? Who surprised? Who might start? That kind of daily speculation filled reporters’ notebooks when the team was training at Missouri Western. But the flow of guesswork was slowed this season. The Chiefs return most starters and without preseason games veterans were going to have an edge over newcomers.After a break, you’ll hear from Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt, who met the media over the weekend to discuss many topics from contracts to protests and Native American imagery.Story links:That’s a wrap. Chiefs conclude training camp, shift focus to approaching season opener.Clark Hunt once perferred Chiefs stand for anthem but says now it’s “time to understand”Clark Hunt: Chiefs mulling more changes to Native American imagery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The second half of the shortened baseball season got off to a lousy start for the Royals, that 6-5 loss in St. Louis on Wednesday when the Royals blew a three-run lead in the ninth. It doesn’t get easier as the team begins a three-game series tonight in Chicago against a White Sox team that has won nine of 10.Beat writer Lynn Worthy joins host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC to talk Royals, the upcoming trade deadline and the team’s move that sent outfielder Brett Phillips to the Tampa Bay Rays for shortstop Lucius Fox.Also you’ll hear what Whit Merrifield had to say after Wednesday’s game when asked if the Royals had considered not playing in light of the protests after the Jacob Blake shooting by police earlier in the week in Wisconsin.Story links:With trade deadline approaching Royals deal Phillips to Tampa Bay for infielderRoyals’ Merrifield explains why it was important to play, even as 3 MLB games were postpontedRoyals’ Rosenthal flattered by trade interest but proclaims desire to remain in KC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are one of a handful of NFL teams that is opening its gates to fans for games, at least in the early part of the season. The team also is making moves regarding its Native American imagery and the organization is getting behind a get-out-the-vote initiative.All that while holding the Super Bowl favorite’s role.Team president Mark Donovan spoke to reporters about the off-field issues and you’ll hear the entire interview on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. Donovan dropped some news about a potential polling place at Arrowhead Stadium.Also, you’ll hear what Andy Reid had to say about the recent shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisc., which has reignited protests and prompted cancellations in the NBA, MLB, MLS, WNBA, and some NFL practices.Story links:Chiefs president explains plans for fans in the stands and perceived elevated ticket pricesChiefs want to turn Arrowhead Stadium into a voting location this NovemberHere’s why the Chiefs are banning Native American imagery and evaluating the chopAndy Reid opens Chiefs session with heartfelt Jacob Blake, Kenosha unrest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans clicked through the turnstiles for Kansas City’s first pro sports game since March Tuesday night, as Sporting KC played host to the Houston Dynamo at Children’s Mercy Park. Seating was limited to about 2,300 spectators, but they were loud, energetic and appreciated by coach Peter Vermes and the players.If only they were rewarded with a better result. Sporting KC fell to the Dynamo 5-2 in a game that got out of hand in the second half. “This is one of those times where you say it’s a bad day,” Vermes said. “It happens sometimes. ... After 30 minutes or so, we started chasing shadows.”Star columnist Sam Mellinger and beat writer Shaun Goodwin attended the game — masks on, of course — and share their observations here with host Blair Kerkhoff on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:s:Sporting played Kansas City’s first game with fans in months. Here’s what it felt likeSporting KC, back in action with fans in the stands, coughs up 5-2 loss to HoustonThe fans return: Limited capacity crowd cheers on Sporting KC at Children’s Mercy Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2020 college football was supposed to start this weekend with a handful of games followed by the traditional full slate of games over Labor Day weekend. There won’t be a grand opening for the sport this season. But a staggered beginning with Big 12, ACC and other conferences starting Sept. 12 and SEC schools on Sept. 26.But every day there’s more news about COVID-19 on campus that makes you think a bubble is the best solution to get in a season. But teams are practicing and planning for openers. On today’s SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast, Kansas beat writer Jesse Newell talks college sports and the questions facing the Jayhawks this season.Can Kansas match last year’s victory total of three games, even with two fewer games on the schedule? What’s the quarterback situation and who could emerge on defense? We even get into a little basketball. Because, Kansas.Story links:Why the success of KU’s footbal offense could come down to four letters: “WWDD?”KU Jayhawks football has a new season opener. It will be against a familiar opponentFormer KU football player Isi Holani dies at age 24. Teammates reflect on his impact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans in the stands - the Chiefs were the first in the NFL to make that happen in a preseason practice. It wasn’t the same as a training camp morning at Missouri Western in St. Joseph, where up to 5,000 would attend. But Chiefs players said they enjoyed having the energy of some 2,000 fans in the stands on Satruday.But were they practicing safety measures in the COVID-19 pandemic? Several fans were shown on social media accounts not wearing masks. They’ll get another chance this Saturday, when some 5,000 people are expected to attend practice. So, no headdress, but masks.Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid addressed having fans in the stands and several other topics when addressing media. You’ll hear those comments on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes emphasize the importance of wearing masks at Arrowhead StadiumThe Chiefs practiced with 2,000 fans are Arrowhead. Masks were required, not always worn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As you’d expect, reaction has been swift and full-throated from Chiefs fans and others about the team’s announcement it’s banning headdresses and Native American-style face-painting at Arrowhead Stadium.The team said it made the decision after years of consulting with local leaders from Native American backgrounds. Those discussions have been happening since 2014.Some fans say the team has gone too far with these changes, and that it will hurt fan engagement. Others say the Chiefs were long overdue in implementing these things.The Chiefs have expanded their talks with national interest groups on this topic and said in their Thursday statement that they are still considering the future of other Arrowhead traditions, such as “The Chop” and the pre-game beating of their war drum. They also said they’re exploring a more formalized education program about Native American culture.On this episode of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger join host Blair Kerkhoff to discuss. Each has written about the topic of appropriation of Native customs and imagery, and in this podcast they debate whether the team has made the right moves and/or gone far enough, and what might be next for the organization.Story links:Chiefs to ban fans from wearing headdresses and will review Arrowhead chop at stadiumA statement from the Kansas City ChiefsChiefs fans have mixed opinions about whether Arrowhead chop should remain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For a pair of teams chasing. .500 records, plenty happened in the Royals split of a double header with the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday. In the opener, Brad Keller was dazzling again. He ran his shutout total to open the season to 17 2/3 innings, and is having the best start by a Royals pitcher since Zack Greinke won the Cy Young Award in 2009.In the second game, Matt Harvey made his Royals debut. The former Mets’ starter who faced the Royals twice in the 2015 World Series looked good early but got roughed up in the third inning. The Royals’ plans for Harvey? Beat writer Lynn Worthy breaks it down with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Moustakas finally returns to KC but Keller’s dominance helps shut out his RedsRoyals fall to Reds in Matt Harvey’s debut and Jesse Hahn’s returnReds’ broadcaster uses homophobic slur during Wednesday’s game against the Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting KC is on the verge of a season restart ... for the second time. Every Major League Soccer team was inactive for COVID-19 until the MLS is Back Tournament reopened the season last month. Once the knockout round started, losing teams were finished at the Orlando site and returned home to await the regular season re-start.For Sporting KC, that will have been more than three weeks between games when the team takes on Minnesota United FC on Friday. That game in Minnesota. Sporting returns home on July 25 and some 2,500 fans will be allowed to watch from Children’s Mercy Park, making Sporting KC the first Kansas City team to allow fans.Sporting beat writer Shaun Goodwin discusses the second re-start and fans in the stands, along with several other topics on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. After a break, you’ll hear from Sporting KC CEO Jake Reid, who met with reporters last week to discuss the details of fans returning to see live action.Story links:Sporting Kansas City CEO discusses decision to let fans back in stadium for home games.Sporting KC unveils schedule for remainder of 2020 with reduced capacity at home gamesSt. Louis’ new MLS team accidently leaked its name and crest before unveiling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans are returning to Arrowhead Stadium this season.The Chiefs announced earlier this week that about 16,000 fans will be allowed to attend home games, at least the first three. Tickets will be sold in “pods,” with up to six seats in each pod. The pods will be spread throughout the stadium.It will be a different fan experience, as it as it is for every sport in the COVID-19 world. Star columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian tell us what they think of the decision to allow fans on today’s episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff.After a break, Sam speaks about his column from Sunday and where, and how, high school sports fit right now. He interviewed coaches, administrators and parents about this subject, and came up with conclusions that you might not expect.Story links:Chiefs will allow fans at home games this fall. Here is the capacity they’ll welcomeNot “100 percent full proof:” KC health director on decision to allow Chiefs fans this seasonHigh school football’s happening this fall, in some places at least. Let’s unpack that Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The tight end position in the NFL has been undervalued, but players like the Chiefs’ Travis Kelce and the 49ers George Kittle are beginning to change that. The Chiefs recently announced an extention for Kelce that will pay him an average of $14.3 million annually. WIth four straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons, five Pro Bowls, two All-Pro honors and a big role in helping the Chiefs win the Super Bowl, Kelce deserves to be paid like a major contributor.Also, how exactly did Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy compliment quarterback Patrick Mahomes? Hear it and Mahomes’ response on SportsBeat KC, the Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Story links:Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce got a big raise. But he still might be underappreciated. Let’s access.Why Chiefs offensive coordinator Bieniemy called Patrick Mahomes a “competitive (jerk)“Fresh off new contract, Travis Kelce unveils big plans to help inner-city kids Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sunday will be a day like no other for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, which is celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the league’s founding in Kansas City. Every team throughout baseball will honor the Negro Leagues and the museum during Sunday’s games. Players, coaches and umpires will wear patches and museum president Bob Kendrick will be making appearances on broadcasts throughout the day culminating with an appearance on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.The celebration has taken many forms this year. Toyota has a commercial that features a former Kansas City Monarchs player. Former pitching star C.C. Sabathia has collaborated on a Negro Leagues clothing line and sharing proceeds with the museum. Four former U.S. Presidents led the way with a tip-your-cap salute to the Negro Leagues.Kendrick wasn’t sure a celebration would work in the COVID-19 pandemic spring and summer. But he had faith in the idea and the exclamation point comes Sunday in baseball stadiums around the country. Kendrick shares his thoughts on the day and how it came about on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff.Story links:Bob Kendrick: Negro Leagues players set a world-class example of determination Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The drama in college football this week involved the Big Ten, Pac-12 and the Big 12. Would their conferences have fall sports, including football? That never seemed to be doubt in the SEC. The league issued a statement on Tuesday that called for a “safe return to sports,” by Commissioner Greg Sankey.On SportsBeat KC, beat writer Souichi Terada talks about moving forward in football at Mizzou and the SEC. How are the Tigers handling the COVID-19 pandemic and how the program fared when the conference issued a new football schedule. Also you’ll hear from football coach Eli Drinkwitz, who met with reporters on Wednesday.Story links:So far, so good: Mizzou football has low COVID-19 rates, no opt-outs, and, still, a seasonPac-12, Big Ten won’t play football this fall. Big 12, SEC, ACC on track toward kickoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The lineup is in for college football, at least at the moment.Moving toward a season are the Big 12, SEC and ACC. Not having a season are the Big Ten and Pac-12. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted college sports in a major way in March with the cancellation of the NCAA Tournament.Now it’s playing havoc with college football.On this episode of The Star’s daily sports podcast, K-State beat writer Kellis Robinett chats with SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff about the news of the past few days. How did we come to this, when it appeared all major conferences were on course to play games as scheduled this fall? After a break, you’ll hear from Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby, who says the league is taking its cues from medical professionals.Also revealed Wednesday: the Big 12 football schedules for each team.Story links:How and why the Big 12 is giving it a go with enhanced testing, other protocolsHere’s everything you need to know about K-State’s 2020 football scheduleKU has a new football schedule: “We continue to prepare for our season cautiously” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Chiefs put together their offseason financial puzzle, some top priorities were established: Take care of quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones. Mission accomplished on both fronts.But the Chiefs were also intent on bringing back nearly every starter from their Super Bowl championship team, even if that meant restructuring some players’ contracts.So it was with wide receiver Sammy Watkins. He could have been released to sign with another team and earn a bigger pay day. But the veteran wideout who led the Chiefs with 288 postseason receiving yards and turned in a huge play on their go-ahead touchdown drive in the Super Bowl wanted to stay in Kansas City. “This is my happy place,” he said this week.Hear more from Watkins on this episode of The Star’s daily podcast, SportsBeat KC, along with Mahomes and coach Andy Reid. Each man met with the media earlier this week as training camp got into full swing at the Chiefs’ training facility. For the first time, Mahomes spoke publicly about purchasing a stake in the Kansas City Royals ... and what he thought of the recent Tyreek Hill vs. Mecole Hardman footrace.Story links:“This is my happy place,” Watkins fine with less money, output to stay in Kansas CityMahomes’ Royals investment could lead to buying a team one day. But first things firstWatch the footrace between Chiefs receivers Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By late Monday afternoon, nobody knew if there would be a college football season or how much of one there would be. One newspaper reported the Big Ten was ready to opt out on a fall, 2020 season. The Pac-12 might not be far behind. Where would that leave the Big 12, SEC and ACC?Star columnists Vahe Gregorian and Sam Mellinger discuss the state of college football on SportsBeat KC with host Blair Kerkhoff. How did the sport reach this pivotal juncture? What happens if there is no college football season? And my, don’t think things get political?The sport should know soon about its immediate future. But the circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic could bring changes to the sport, like a commissioner of college football.Story links:Report: Big Ten out of college football for 2020: Some players say #WeWantToPlayhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/big-12/article244847667.htmlWhat’s next for Big 12 football if Big Ten cancels its football games in the fall?https://www.kansascity.com/sports/article244853542.htmlWith college football in flux, some Mizzou players say they want to play despite COVIDhttps://www.kansascity.com/sports/college/sec/university-of-missouri/article244853597.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals ended their week-long skid on Thursday with a 13-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs, which means they’ve won every game they’ve played with outfielder Nick Heath in the starting lineup. Heath, who grew up in Junction City, made his first major league start in the game, collected his first hit and ended the game with a catch that resulted in him crashing into the wall.You’ll hear from Heath, Royals manager Mike Matheny, and beat writer Lynn Worthy talks about the team’s week. What went right, like young starting pitching, and what didn’t. The season continues with a weekend series against another playoff team from last season, the Minnesota Twins. But at least the Royals won’t go 0-for-Chicago this season. The six-game skid came against the White Sox and Cubs.Story links:Royals jump all over Cubs as Merrifield, Franco, Soler homer in 13-run outburstRoyals’ roster decision sends Erick Mejia back down but opens a door for Nick HeathHere’s how Kauffman Stadium looked with virtual fans in stands during Fox’s broadcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Thursday, Chiefs’ offensive lineman Lucas Niang became the first rookie to opt out of this season. Niang figured to compete for playing time with veteran guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif having already opted out. Instead, the door is open for veteran Keleche Osemele to step into a starting role.On SportsBeat KC, we hear from Osemele, who met the media earlier this week. He talks about his previous stops in the NFL and his reaction to getting the news that the Chiefs wanted to sign him. After a break, Frank Clark speaks publicly for the first time since the Super Bowl. Clark played a big role in the team’s success last season in his first year with the team.Story links:Chiefs rookie Lucas Niang elects to opt out of 2020 seasonThis newcomer is excited to contribute, help the Chiefs continue winning. And he’s needed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big 12 schools will play a 10-game football schedule, but precisely when it starts and the one non-conference foe for each school remains uncertain. But these are uncertain times overall for the college sports landscape.Beat writers Kellis Robinett (Kansas State) and Jesse Newell (Kansas) discuss where things stand in the Big 12 and at the Sunflower State schools.After a break, the beat writers talk college basketball in Kansas City, specifically the best moments at Sprint Center for the Jayhawks and Wildcats. Thanks to a recent corporate merger, the building is now officially known as T-Mobile Center. Both programs had some great moments when the building was called Sprint.Story links:Big 12 football moving forward with plans for 10-game schedule in the fallK-State once again looking at famous Lockett family for wide receiver recruitTMobile tweet 0805 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In any other year, the Chiefs would be counting down the days to their first preseason game.In 2020, thanks to the pandemic, there are no preseason games. But there are interviews with Chiefs coaches and players. Head coach Andy Reid discusses this unique preseason, carrying on without running back Damien Williams, who has opted out due to COVID-19, and several more topics on this installment of SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast.After a break, you’ll hear from safety Tyrann Mathieu, the star safety who after one year in a Chiefs uniform has taken on a leadership role with the team. He explains the precautions he and his teammates are taking in the Chiefs’ training camp bubble and how he’s helping to set the tone for another Super Bowl run.Story links:Chiefs vets like Mathieu, Kelce will step up as leaders during this unusual training campAre Chiefs players worried about COVID-19? Here’s what they say about playing during a pandemic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never has the idea of “no time like the present” to make improvements been more true than this baseball season. The Royals have lost seven of their first 10 games, and in a 60-game season, the turnaround time is greatly reduced. That also goes for individuals like Adalberto Mondesi. The promising shortstop is off to slow start, at the plate, in the field and on the base paths.On SportsBeat KC, The Star’s daily sports podcast, columnists Sam Mellinger and Vahe Gregorian break down the team’s and Mondesi’s season and what it will take to get back on track.After a break, the discussion turns to the opt-out decision by Chiefs running back Damien Williams and why some sports and leagues are doing a better job handling the re-start better than others.Story links:Ever real Danny Duffy deals, delivers on doing the right things during the pandemicRoyals crater in seventh as White Sox sweep first series of season at Kauffman StadiumChiefs’ Damien Williams reveals he’s opting out because of his mother’s illness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Kelce says the Chiefs feel safe in their training camp facility at Arrowhead Stadium. The important thing is for players to be responsible when they leave the facility to return home. The Chiefs tight end touched on a range of topics head on SportsBeat KC, The Kansas City Star’s daily sports podcast.Also, on the episode, running back Damien Williams tells Sirius XM that opting out this season was based on a family illness. You’ll also hear from Sporting KC’s Peter Vermes who disappointed in himself after Thursday’s elimination loss in the MLS is Back Tournament.Finally, Kris Bubic tells us how he found out he would make his major league debut as the Royals starting pitcher in tonight’s home opener.Story links:Chiefs vets like Mathieu, Kelce will step up leaders during unusual training campSporting KC gets bounced by Philadelphia in MLS is Back TournamentThis Royals pitcher will make his MLB debut in Friday’s opener against the White Sox Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If only Chiefs running back Damien Williams could return for the playoffs. That’s where he’s done his most damage in a Chiefs uniform with 10 touchdowns in five games over two seasons. But he won’t be in uniform this season, electing to opt-out because of COVID-19. Chiefs beat writer Herbie Teope joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in breaking down the Williams’ decision and what it means for the Chiefs.Also, there was a reason why quarterback Patrick Mahomes landed at the No. 4 spot in the NFL’s list of top 100 players for 2019, and Teope explains why.After a break, you’ll hear from Royals beat writer Lynn Worthy. The Royals are about to conclude their season opening road trip and play the home opener—before no fans—on Friday. What’s going right and wrong for the Royals so far, and how did manager Mike Matheny settle on a second-year pro as his home opener starter.Story links:With COVID-19 swirling, Chiefs running back Damien Williams opts out of 2019 seasonHow could Patrick Mahomes be No. 4 in NFL’s top 100?Stellar early, KC’s Danny Duffy falters late as Tigers squeeze out 5-4 win over Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The newest member of the Kansas City Royals’ ownership group is ... Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Add that to the long and still growing list of accomplishments for the 24-year-old superstar.Let’s see ... first quarterback drafted by Chiefs in first round since 1983; NFL MVP in his first season as starter; Super Bowl MVP in his second; youngest member of an ownership group in Major League Baseball history.In today’s edition of our daily sports podcast, KC Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in a conversation about the news. What does this mean for the Royals and Mahomes’ long-term plans in Kansas City? And perhaps now, with a real stake in the team, Mahomes can light a fire under slow-starting shortstop Aldaberto Mondesi.Story links:Mahomes mania reaches another tier as he joins Royals’ ownership groupMahomes joins elite ranks of sports ownership, and he has to be the youngest, right?The Royals expectation for Mondesi in 2019 includes a Patrick Mahomes comparison Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some sports have been more successful at re-starting than others. Baseball is going through a rough patch now with about half of the Miami Marlins traveling party, mostly players, having contracted COVID-19 during the team’s opening series at Philadelphia. The outbreak has ripple effects with other games being postponed.It’s baseball’s nightmare scenario that hasn’t occurred in some other sports, like soccer, that have re-started in the U.S., or in other countries. So as pro and college football approach, is it time to ask—if behaviors don’t change and coronavirus numbers continue to climb in the U.S.—are the health risks worth continuing the re-start efforts?Star columnist Vahe Gregorian joins SportsBeat KC host Blair Kerkhoff in the discussion. Carry on or cancel? Can you want sports to be played but raise the possibility of it being a bad idea? After a break, you’ll hear from Royals manager Mike Mathney and All-Star Whit Merrifield on how the Marlins’ news hit the Royals’ clubhouse on Monday.Story links:Royals: Marlins’ COVID outbreak bad for all of baseball, potentially devastatingFive Patriots players, including two starters, opt out of 2020 NFL season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Chiefs are working through health precautions and protocols as they report to training camp at the team facility at Arrowhead Stadium.The team says it’s doing everything right and is even somewhat of a model for the NFL. But safety concerns remain amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. On today’s episode of the daily SportsBeat KC podcast, you’ll hear from Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid and trainer Rick Burkholder on the Chiefs’ plans for getting through camp safely.Also, you’ll hear from beat writers Herbie Teope and Sam McDowell and Star columnist Vahe Gregorian on decision by Chiefs offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif to opt out this season and instead practice medicine in his native Quebec.Story links:Chiefs’ Rick Burkholder helped coordinate league wide COVID-19 protocolsChiefs’ Patrick Mahomes had most unusual off-season. But return to camp offers normalcyLaurent Duvernay-Tardif is a true hero for NFL. His opt-out makes world a better place Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve arrived at the latest opening day in baseball history. And now, the sprint is on.A 60-game regular season and the quest to land in an expanded Major League Baseball playoff bracket begins Friday night for the Kansas City Royals. On this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast you’ll hear from seven-time Gold Glove-winning outfielder Alex Gordon on what he believes is a more dangerous KC lineup this season.After a break, Royals play-by-play man Ryan Lefebvre explains how it’s all going to work in the booth this season. The Royals’ TV and radio crews will not travel to road games. But they won’t miss a moment of the action. They’ll be calling all the games from Kauffman Stadium. Lefebvre breaks down the unique challenges of such an arrangement.We’ll finish with sound from the first major sporting event in Kansas City since the shutdown in mid-March. You’ll hear how the Super Start Batteries 400 sounded, from the ‘Start your engines!” command bellowed by Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones to the final laps of the hotly contested NASCAR Cup race in KCK.The first busy sports weekend in Kansas City in more than four months has arrived, with the Royals’ season starting, Sporting KC facing Vancouver Sunday at 10 p.m. in the knockout round of the MLS is Back Tournament, continued racing at Kansas Speedway (ARCA, Xfinity and two trucks series races remain this weekend), and the Chiefs’ rookies reporting to camp.Follow coverage of all these events and more via kansascity.com and the SportsBeat KC podcast, as well as in the printed edition of The Kansas City Star newspaper!Story links:Royals release hype video ahead of 2020 openerRoyals roster is set, and Bubba Starling leads list of first timers on list of 30Hamlin is lights out in his third Cup win at Kansas Speedway Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Royals played three exhibition games (“Summer Camp”) to tune up for Friday’s Opening Day against the Cleveland Indians, and there wasn’t much encouraging about those contests against the Astros and Cardinals. The Royals led for one inning in those three games, with pitchers having a difficult time commanding the strike zone.But those were exhibitions, their first games played since mid-March, and perhaps the Royals worked out the kinks. The 60-game season begins with Danny Duffy on the mound. He’s making his third career Opening Day start. Brady Singer, who pitched well last year in his first full minor-league season, gets the starting assignment in KC’s second game.Beat writer Lynn Worthy previews the 2020 Royalsin this episode of The Star’s daily SportsBeat KC podcast with host Blair Kerkhoff. After a break, you’ll hear from Duffy, the team’s most experienced starting pitcher.Story links:Royals drop final exhibition game in wake of losing Jesse Hahn and Hunter DozierBrady Singer will make major league debut Saturday for Royals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices