Kansas City Royals Roundup: Scholarships, Kevin Appier and more

There were lots of Kansas City Royals things going on in and around Kauffman Stadium this weekend. Find out what all went on aside from the three ballgames that you might have missed.

You know the Kansas City Royals hosted Cleveland for games Friday through Sunday this past weekend. What you might not know is what else went on around the Royals organization during that span.

Friday was KU Night at Kauffman Stadium. Members of the University of Kansas football team signed autographs prior to the game, and a couple even went out on the mound to throw out the first pitch.

(As a proud Mizzou alum, I will refrain from the classless mention of the Jayhawks’ 14-70 record since 2010. I’m better than that.)

The highlight of the night, though, happened in the stands during the game. (It certainly didn’t occur on the field.) Four walk-on players found out they had earned scholarships.

Check Out That Check

Also on hand for Friday night’s game was Tim Brown. No, not the former wide receiver who is now in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This was the guy who won $25,000 when Cam Gallagher smacked a grand slam in the sixth inning against Oakland last Monday night.

Brown was presented with his check and even got his jersey signed by Gallagher himself.

Return of the ‘Ape’

The star of the weekend, though, was former Kansas City Royals pitcher Kevin Appier.

On Friday, he pitched in at Harvesters Community Food Network. With the help of several volunteers, over 500 bags of food were packed up.

The team also held a food drive during Saturday’s game as part of a friendly competition against the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

The Kansas City Royals gave away Appier bobbleheads on Saturday night. The Royals Hall of Famer was on hand to sign autographs and also threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Toast the Yost

The Kansas City Royals were unable to get the win on Saturday, but the team still had reason to celebrate. Manager Ned Yost turned 63 on Saturday. He certainly would have preferred a victory as a birthday present, but I think a chance to play with his grandson is a good consolation prize.

Riding in Style

Sunday finally brought a win to the Boys in Blue. It also brought a few classic cars to the Truman Sports Complex parking lot, while some even made it onto the field at Kauffman Stadium.

Kennedy Honored

Also taking the field before Sunday’s series finale was Ian Kennedy. The pitcher received the Bob Feller Act of Valor Award prior to the game. The award recognizes Kennedy’s efforts in supporting military families.

This is just a sampling of the many things that go on at Kauffman Stadium during a typical homestand. There’s always more than just the ballgame to enjoy.

Next: Royals Need to Change Their Focus

So when you plan your next trip to The K, be sure to check out what other fun activities will be going on. Maybe, you will even get to meet some halfway decent football players. (Sorry, I had to.)