By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

For the first time in over a month, the Salina Liberty will hit the road this Saturday for a league contest with the Southwest Kansas Storm.

Salina comes into this matchup in a tie for third at 5-2 while Southwest Kansas enters in sixth at 2-5.

These two met two weeks back in a game that saw the Liberty emerge victorious by a final score of 45-38.

While Salina emerged with a win, the Liberty will be very intentional about shoring up their play in the rematch, specifically in the turnover margin where the team was fortunate to escape with a win.

“I remember the fumbles and interceptions that we surrendered to one of the best defenses in the game and simply put we have to be better than that,” Liberty head coach Heron O’Neal said. “You’re not going to beat too many teams playing the way we did in that game but if we can keep things tightened up like we did last week we should be okay.”

While contending with a stout secondary will be among the top of Salina’s priority list, they will also have to find an answer for nose guard Sidney Jones, who has been more than a handful for opposing fronts this season.

“He’s a problem and we found out just how much of a problem he was in that first game,” O’Neal said. “We’ll have to neutralize him and we’ll have to work against one of the best secondaries in the league but we’re up for the challenge.”

On the other side of the contest, Salina will have to put more pressure on Storm QB Josh Hollins, who ran wild on the Liberty last time with four total touchdowns including three on the ground.

“Our defensive line will have to neutralize their quarterback,” O’Neal said. “He lit us up in that first game and now that we have more film and firsthand experience against him we understand his game and what he can do.”

Kickoff between the Liberty and Storm is scheduled for 6:00 in Dodge City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617387097958.png" alt="Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of Liberty football is presented by Ryan Roofing</figcaption>
 </figure>For the first time in over a month, the Salina Liberty will hit the road this Saturday for a league contest with the Southwest Kansas Storm.Salina comes into this matchup in a tie for third at 5-2 while Southwest Kansas enters in sixth at 2-5.These two met two weeks back in a game that saw the Liberty emerge victorious by a final score of 45-38.While Salina emerged with a win, the Liberty will be very intentional about shoring up their play in the rematch, specifically in the turnover margin where the team was fortunate to escape with a win.“I remember the fumbles and interceptions that we surrendered to one of the best defenses in the game and simply put we have to be better than that,” Liberty head coach Heron O’Neal said. “You’re not going to beat too many teams playing the way we did in that game but if we can keep things tightened up like we did last week we should be okay.”While contending with a stout secondary will be among the top of Salina’s priority list, they will also have to find an answer for nose guard Sidney Jones, who has been more than a handful for opposing fronts this season.“He’s a problem and we found out just how much of a problem he was in that first game,” O’Neal said. “We’ll have to neutralize him and we’ll have to work against one of the best secondaries in the league but we’re up for the challenge.”On the other side of the contest, Salina will have to put more pressure on Storm QB Josh Hollins, who ran wild on the Liberty last time with four total touchdowns including three on the ground.“Our defensive line will have to neutralize their quarterback,” O’Neal said. “He lit us up in that first game and now that we have more film and firsthand experience against him we understand his game and what he can do.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Storm is scheduled for 6:00 in Dodge City and as always, the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

Liberty travel to Southwest Kansas for rematch with Storm

By AVERY OSEN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Brent Rooker and Ramón Laureano hit back-to-back homers, Ryan Noda drove in three runs and the Oakland Athletics outslugged the Kansas City Royals 12-8 on Friday night in a matchup between the bottom two teams in baseball.

Kyle Muller became the first A's starter to earn a win in 33 games this year. The drought was the longest to begin a season in MLB history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

"It's been a long time coming," Muller said. "We have had some opportunities and fell a little short. I don't think the performance was worthy of the first win because we've had some guys have some good outings. We're just going to keep rolling from here."

Rooker, Noda, Esteury Ruiz and Tony Kemp each had three of Oakland's 17 hits, a season high. Ruiz and Noda both scored three times as the A's improved to 7-26 with only their second victory by more than one run.

Nick Pratto homered for the Royals (8-25), who dropped to 2-15 at home. They shaved a seven-run deficit to 9-8 before Oakland scored three times in the final two innings.

"This club has shown a lot of fight and resilience to fight back, and we had a tough series against Seattle and lost some of those games we couldn't tack on runs," A's manager Mark Kotsay said. "Tonight in the eighth inning we were able to tack on those (two) extra runs, which was breathing room."

Rooker launched a two-run homer in the third inning and Laureano followed with a drive to left-center that made it 4-0. It was Rooker's 10th home run of the season, second-most in the American League.

Rooker hit an RBI double in the fourth and Kemp chased Royals starter Brad Keller with a run-scoring double in the fifth.

Keller (2-3) gave up six earned runs, 11 hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings.

Noda added a two-run double in the fifth to make it 9-2 — the biggest lead for Oakland this season.

Muller (1-2) gave up a two-run homer to Pratto in the fourth. The left-hander went 5 1/3 innings, allowing five runs and eight hits. He walked three and struck out one.

For the second consecutive game, the Royals fought back from a big deficit but couldn't complete the comeback. A two-run triple by Hunter Dozier trimmed it to 9-8 in the seventh.

"I mean, disappointing. Or, you know, we don't expect to do that," manager Matt Quataro said about falling into a big hole for a second straight game. "That is what is frustrating is that we know our guys can perform better than that and they know that. That is where the frustration comes, the internal part."

Kansas City recalled RHP Jonathan Heasley and optioned LHP Austin Cox to Triple-A Omaha.

The Royals placed OF Kyle Isbel (left hamstring strain) on the 10-day injured list and recalled INF Nate Eaton.

Oakland sends LHP Ken Waldichuk (0-2, 7.26 ERA) to the mound against Royals RHP Brady Singer (2-3, 8.48) on Saturday.

By AVERY OSEN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Brent Rooker and Ramón Laureano hit back-to-back homers, Ryan Noda drove in three runs and the Oakland Athletics outslugged the Kansas City Royals 12-8 on Friday night in a matchup between the bottom two teams in baseball.Kyle Muller became the first A's starter to earn a win in 33 games this year. The drought was the longest to begin a season in MLB history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau."It's been a long time coming," Muller said. "We have had some opportunities and fell a little short. I don't think the performance was worthy of the first win because we've had some guys have some good outings. We're just going to keep rolling from here."Rooker, Noda, Esteury Ruiz and Tony Kemp each had three of Oakland's 17 hits, a season high. Ruiz and Noda both scored three times as the A's improved to 7-26 with only their second victory by more than one run.Nick Pratto homered for the Royals (8-25), who dropped to 2-15 at home. They shaved a seven-run deficit to 9-8 before Oakland scored three times in the final two innings."This club has shown a lot of fight and resilience to fight back, and we had a tough series against Seattle and lost some of those games we couldn't tack on runs," A's manager Mark Kotsay said. "Tonight in the eighth inning we were able to tack on those (two) extra runs, which was breathing room."Rooker launched a two-run homer in the third inning and Laureano followed with a drive to left-center that made it 4-0. It was Rooker's 10th home run of the season, second-most in the American League.Rooker hit an RBI double in the fourth and Kemp chased Royals starter Brad Keller with a run-scoring double in the fifth.Keller (2-3) gave up six earned runs, 11 hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings.Noda added a two-run double in the fifth to make it 9-2 — the biggest lead for Oakland this season.Muller (1-2) gave up a two-run homer to Pratto in the fourth. The left-hander went 5 1/3 innings, allowing five runs and eight hits. He walked three and struck out one.For the second consecutive game, the Royals fought back from a big deficit but couldn't complete the comeback. A two-run triple by Hunter Dozier trimmed it to 9-8 in the seventh."I mean, disappointing. Or, you know, we don't expect to do that," manager Matt Quataro said about falling into a big hole for a second straight game. "That is what is frustrating is that we know our guys can perform better than that and they know that. That is where the frustration comes, the internal part."ROSTER MOVESKansas City recalled RHP Jonathan Heasley and optioned LHP Austin Cox to Triple-A Omaha.TRAINER'S ROOMThe Royals placed OF Kyle Isbel (left hamstring strain) on the 10-day injured list and recalled INF Nate Eaton.UP NEXTOakland sends LHP Ken Waldichuk (0-2, 7.26 ERA) to the mound against Royals RHP Brady Singer (2-3, 8.48) on Saturday.

Rooker, Laureano go back-to-back as A's outslug Royals 12-8

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Oakland Athletics broadcaster Glen Kuiper apologized after uttering what sounded like a racial slur while describing a trip to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

In a pregame segment on NBC Sports California before the A's played the Kansas City Royals on Friday night, Kuiper talked about a trip to the museum with colleague Dallas Braden but seemingly mispronounced the word "negro," making it sound instead like a slur.

Later in the game, Kuiper apologized on the air without getting into specifics.

"Welcome back to Kauffman Stadium. I just want to ... a little bit earlier in the show, I said something, didn't come out quite the way I wanted it to," Kuiper said. "And I just wanted to apologize if it sounded different than I meant it to be said. And like I said, I just wanted to apologize for that."

The A's later issued a statement, calling the language used by Kuiper "unacceptable."

"The Oakland Athletics do not condone such language," the team said. "We are working to address the situation."

Kuiper has been calling A's games in the Bay Area for about 20 years. He is the younger brother of former major leaguer and Giants announcer Duane Kuiper.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Oakland Athletics broadcaster Glen Kuiper apologized after uttering what sounded like a racial slur while describing a trip to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.In a pregame segment on NBC Sports California before the A's played the Kansas City Royals on Friday night, Kuiper talked about a trip to the museum with colleague Dallas Braden but seemingly mispronounced the word "negro," making it sound instead like a slur.Later in the game, Kuiper apologized on the air without getting into specifics."Welcome back to Kauffman Stadium. I just want to ... a little bit earlier in the show, I said something, didn't come out quite the way I wanted it to," Kuiper said. "And I just wanted to apologize if it sounded different than I meant it to be said. And like I said, I just wanted to apologize for that."The A's later issued a statement, calling the language used by Kuiper "unacceptable.""The Oakland Athletics do not condone such language," the team said. "We are working to address the situation."Kuiper has been calling A's games in the Bay Area for about 20 years. He is the younger brother of former major leaguer and Giants announcer Duane Kuiper.

A's broadcaster apologizes after apparent racial slur

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It's been a long time since Frankie Muniz was "Malcolm in the Middle."

These days, he's more like "Malcolm in the Front."

The multitalented actor-turned-race car driver is leading the standings in the ARCA Series, one of the lower rungs on the NASCAR feeder system, through the first three races in his first full season. His goal is to reach the Cup Series eventually, but the 37-year-old Muniz harbors no misconceptions about just how difficult it will be to climb that ladder.

Especially given he's still trying to learn what all the switches do in his current car.

"I'm so focused on all that I need to learn right now in ARCA," said Muniz, who was eighth-fastest in practice Friday at Kansas Speedway, where the series will race Saturday. "This is the fourth race of 20 this season. I thought I'd do OK; I didn't know I'd be in the points lead at this point. But I'm focused on continuing that and learning."

Muniz has always been fascinated by racing. He saw some in Charlotte growing up and went to the Daytona 500, where he drove the pace car in 2001, the year Dale Earnhardt was killed in a last-lap wreck. And during his younger days, when he was starring as the titular character on the Fox sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle," he dabbled in competitive racing.

Muniz entered 14 races in 2006 in the Formula BMW USA series, and the following year, moved up to the Champ Car Atlantic Series. He continued racing until 2009, when a crash left him with injuries that led to him stepping away.

He focused primarily on acting, though by that point "Malcolm in the Middle" had long finished its seven-year run on Fox and was fast becoming a cult classic, and began moonlighting as the drummer in the indie rock band Kingsfoil.

Muniz's comeback, so to speak, began in late 2021 when he drove a late model at Kern County Raceway Park in Bakersfield, California. Next came an ARCA Series test at Daytona last year, and in January, Rette Jones racing announced that Muniz would be behind the wheel for the No. 30 Ford full-time this season.

"I love my past. I love everything I've done," Muniz said, "but I don't remember ever saying I wanted to be an actor. I wanted to be a garbage man, honestly, and acting took over my life. This chance in racing was me saying: 'What do I want to do? What do I want to accomplish in my life?' And here I am. I chose this. And when I put my helmet on and leave pit land, as much as I don't know, I feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be."

Turns out that's at the front of the pack.

While he's yet to win through three ARCA Series races, Muniz has been the model of consistency. He's the only driver to finish all 316 laps, and that's why he leads 18-year-old Jesse Love by the narrowest of margins in the points race.

"It's a great achievement for Frankie to be leading in the ARCA Racing Series championship point standings as a Rette Jones Racing driver, but it is very early in the season," said the team's co-owner, Mark Rette. "Still, Frankie is incredibly focused and he knows that if he just focuses on his craft behind the wheel, the points will follow."

One thing Muniz has going for him is the support of Ford. The racing powerhouse recently had him at its world headquarters for some events, and his car this weekend is carrying the "Built Ford Proud" banner on it.

"Obviously that's an integral part of making those leaps," Muniz said, "the fact that I'm in with an amazing manufacturer."

That will only take Muniz so far, though. He also understands that showing enough ability to rise through the ranks is of the utmost importance, and he doesn't have a whole lot of time to do it. Muniz is basically getting his start in stock car racing at the same age that many drivers are beginning to think about what comes next.

That's an added bit of pressure that many of his peers don't have.

"There's good and bad, obviously, with being my age," Muniz said. "I've been through a lot in my life — a lot of good, a lot of bad. I have experienced some things, even racing in the past. I feel like I pushed hard in racing, but I always felt like I could have pushed harder, tried harder. I have this opportunity now here I get a second chance to do it the right way."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683324165710.jpeg" alt="Actor-turned-race car driver Frankie Muniz leans on his car before the ARCA 200 auto race Feb. 18 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. Muniz is the surprising points leader in the ARCA Series heading into Saturday’s race at Kansas Speedway in his first full season in stock car racing. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, file)" />
 <figcaption>Actor-turned-race car driver Frankie Muniz leans on his car before the ARCA 200 auto race Feb. 18 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. Muniz is the surprising points leader in the ARCA Series heading into Saturday’s race at Kansas Speedway in his first full season in stock car racing. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Kan. — It's been a long time since Frankie Muniz was "Malcolm in the Middle."These days, he's more like "Malcolm in the Front."The multitalented actor-turned-race car driver is leading the standings in the ARCA Series, one of the lower rungs on the NASCAR feeder system, through the first three races in his first full season. His goal is to reach the Cup Series eventually, but the 37-year-old Muniz harbors no misconceptions about just how difficult it will be to climb that ladder.Especially given he's still trying to learn what all the switches do in his current car."I'm so focused on all that I need to learn right now in ARCA," said Muniz, who was eighth-fastest in practice Friday at Kansas Speedway, where the series will race Saturday. "This is the fourth race of 20 this season. I thought I'd do OK; I didn't know I'd be in the points lead at this point. But I'm focused on continuing that and learning."Muniz has always been fascinated by racing. He saw some in Charlotte growing up and went to the Daytona 500, where he drove the pace car in 2001, the year Dale Earnhardt was killed in a last-lap wreck. And during his younger days, when he was starring as the titular character on the Fox sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle," he dabbled in competitive racing.Muniz entered 14 races in 2006 in the Formula BMW USA series, and the following year, moved up to the Champ Car Atlantic Series. He continued racing until 2009, when a crash left him with injuries that led to him stepping away.He focused primarily on acting, though by that point "Malcolm in the Middle" had long finished its seven-year run on Fox and was fast becoming a cult classic, and began moonlighting as the drummer in the indie rock band Kingsfoil.Muniz's comeback, so to speak, began in late 2021 when he drove a late model at Kern County Raceway Park in Bakersfield, California. Next came an ARCA Series test at Daytona last year, and in January, Rette Jones racing announced that Muniz would be behind the wheel for the No. 30 Ford full-time this season."I love my past. I love everything I've done," Muniz said, "but I don't remember ever saying I wanted to be an actor. I wanted to be a garbage man, honestly, and acting took over my life. This chance in racing was me saying: 'What do I want to do? What do I want to accomplish in my life?' And here I am. I chose this. And when I put my helmet on and leave pit land, as much as I don't know, I feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be."Turns out that's at the front of the pack.While he's yet to win through three ARCA Series races, Muniz has been the model of consistency. He's the only driver to finish all 316 laps, and that's why he leads 18-year-old Jesse Love by the narrowest of margins in the points race."It's a great achievement for Frankie to be leading in the ARCA Racing Series championship point standings as a Rette Jones Racing driver, but it is very early in the season," said the team's co-owner, Mark Rette. "Still, Frankie is incredibly focused and he knows that if he just focuses on his craft behind the wheel, the points will follow."One thing Muniz has going for him is the support of Ford. The racing powerhouse recently had him at its world headquarters for some events, and his car this weekend is carrying the "Built Ford Proud" banner on it."Obviously that's an integral part of making those leaps," Muniz said, "the fact that I'm in with an amazing manufacturer."That will only take Muniz so far, though. He also understands that showing enough ability to rise through the ranks is of the utmost importance, and he doesn't have a whole lot of time to do it. Muniz is basically getting his start in stock car racing at the same age that many drivers are beginning to think about what comes next.That's an added bit of pressure that many of his peers don't have."There's good and bad, obviously, with being my age," Muniz said. "I've been through a lot in my life — a lot of good, a lot of bad. I have experienced some things, even racing in the past. I feel like I pushed hard in racing, but I always felt like I could have pushed harder, tried harder. I have this opportunity now here I get a second chance to do it the right way."

Frankie Muniz of 'Malcolm in the Middle' out front in racing

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Baltimore Orioles have come from behind for 11 of their 21 wins this season.

Their victory Thursday in Kansas City was a little unique.

The Orioles raced to a seven-run lead before watching the Royals wipe it out, then pull ahead in the seventh inning. But once more embodying poise under pressure, Ramon Urias hit a go-ahead, two-run single in the eighth inning and added a two-run double in the ninth, allowing Baltimore to escape with a 13-10 victory and its seventh straight series win.

"We fight. We fight every game" said Urias, who entered as a pinch hitter. "Every guy is involved with what we're doing."

That includes Gunnar Henderson and Anthony Santander, who hit homers, and Cedric Mullins, who had a bases-loaded double that helped the Orioles run out to an 8-1 lead by the bottom of the third inning.

The Royals fought back and pulled ahead on Bobby Witt Jr.'s single in the seventh, but Aroldis Chapman (1-2) promptly walked the first two batters in the eighth. Adam Frazier moved up on a balk and joined Jorge Mateo in stealing bases before Urias hit a single through the left side of a drawn-in infield to give the Orioles the lead again.

Yennier Cano (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings for Baltimore, one of the few solid outings by a reliever. Felix Bautista coughed up a run in the ninth before striking out Witt and Hunter Dozier to end the game with runners at second and third.

"The offense did a great job, especially starting off the game," said Orioles starter Grayson Rodriguez, who allowed six runs in 3 2/3 innings. "This team has a lot of fight in it."

Freddy Fermin hit his first career homer, Salvador Perez added a two-run shot and Kyle Isbel went deep for Kansas City before his tying bunt in the seventh inning, when he beat out the throw but strained his hamstring crossing the bag.

He was undergoing an MRI exam after the game, adding injury to another insulting loss for the Royals.

"Somebody has to take it," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of the back-and-forth game. "They did."

The Orioles jumped to their big early lead by capitalizing on mistakes.

The first came when Ryan Mountcastle hit a high two-out popup down the right-field line in the first inning. Three Royals converged on it, but MJ Melendez, who has stopped catching so he can focus on playing the outfield, was unable to make the basket catch. Santander followed the error with his homer off Jordan Lyles over the right-field wall.

In the third, Lyles loaded the bases on a single, walk and hit batter before Mullins cleared them with a double.

Then in the fifth, after Lyles once again got the first two outs, he walked Frazier and uncorked a wild pitch that led to Mateo's run-scoring single. Henderson followed with his two-run shot to give Baltimore its 8-1 lead.

Rodriguez served up Fermin's leadoff homer in the third and another to Perez, the 100th for the veteran catcher at Kauffman Stadium, moving him into a tie with Mike Sweeney and trailing only George Brett for the most in club history.

In the fourth, Isbel went deep before Vinnie Pasquantino followed Fermin's first career triple with a run-scoring single that pulled the Royals within 8-6. They got within a run in the fifth on Michael Massey's double, Isbel tied the game in the seventh on his bunt, and Witt drove in the go-ahead run for Kansas City two batters later.

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said C Luis Torrens, acquired from the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday, will likely join the team "sometime this weekend," when they play a series in Atlanta.

Orioles LF Austin Hays was out of the starting lineup for the second straight day, though Hyde said he was available off the bench. Hays has been dealing with a sore right middle finger. Kyle Stowers again took his place.

The Orioles face the Braves with RHP Dean Kremer (2-1, 6.67 ERA) on the mound for Friday night's opener. The Royals remain at Kauffman Stadium fora three-game set against Oakland with RHP Brad Keller (2-2, 3.56) getting the Friday night start.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Baltimore Orioles have come from behind for 11 of their 21 wins this season.Their victory Thursday in Kansas City was a little unique.The Orioles raced to a seven-run lead before watching the Royals wipe it out, then pull ahead in the seventh inning. But once more embodying poise under pressure, Ramon Urias hit a go-ahead, two-run single in the eighth inning and added a two-run double in the ninth, allowing Baltimore to escape with a 13-10 victory and its seventh straight series win."We fight. We fight every game" said Urias, who entered as a pinch hitter. "Every guy is involved with what we're doing."That includes Gunnar Henderson and Anthony Santander, who hit homers, and Cedric Mullins, who had a bases-loaded double that helped the Orioles run out to an 8-1 lead by the bottom of the third inning.The Royals fought back and pulled ahead on Bobby Witt Jr.'s single in the seventh, but Aroldis Chapman (1-2) promptly walked the first two batters in the eighth. Adam Frazier moved up on a balk and joined Jorge Mateo in stealing bases before Urias hit a single through the left side of a drawn-in infield to give the Orioles the lead again.Yennier Cano (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings for Baltimore, one of the few solid outings by a reliever. Felix Bautista coughed up a run in the ninth before striking out Witt and Hunter Dozier to end the game with runners at second and third."The offense did a great job, especially starting off the game," said Orioles starter Grayson Rodriguez, who allowed six runs in 3 2/3 innings. "This team has a lot of fight in it."Freddy Fermin hit his first career homer, Salvador Perez added a two-run shot and Kyle Isbel went deep for Kansas City before his tying bunt in the seventh inning, when he beat out the throw but strained his hamstring crossing the bag.He was undergoing an MRI exam after the game, adding injury to another insulting loss for the Royals."Somebody has to take it," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of the back-and-forth game. "They did."The Orioles jumped to their big early lead by capitalizing on mistakes.The first came when Ryan Mountcastle hit a high two-out popup down the right-field line in the first inning. Three Royals converged on it, but MJ Melendez, who has stopped catching so he can focus on playing the outfield, was unable to make the basket catch. Santander followed the error with his homer off Jordan Lyles over the right-field wall.In the third, Lyles loaded the bases on a single, walk and hit batter before Mullins cleared them with a double.Then in the fifth, after Lyles once again got the first two outs, he walked Frazier and uncorked a wild pitch that led to Mateo's run-scoring single. Henderson followed with his two-run shot to give Baltimore its 8-1 lead.Rodriguez served up Fermin's leadoff homer in the third and another to Perez, the 100th for the veteran catcher at Kauffman Stadium, moving him into a tie with Mike Sweeney and trailing only George Brett for the most in club history.In the fourth, Isbel went deep before Vinnie Pasquantino followed Fermin's first career triple with a run-scoring single that pulled the Royals within 8-6. They got within a run in the fifth on Michael Massey's double, Isbel tied the game in the seventh on his bunt, and Witt drove in the go-ahead run for Kansas City two batters later.TRANSACTIONSOrioles manager Brandon Hyde said C Luis Torrens, acquired from the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday, will likely join the team "sometime this weekend," when they play a series in Atlanta.TRAINER'S ROOMOrioles LF Austin Hays was out of the starting lineup for the second straight day, though Hyde said he was available off the bench. Hays has been dealing with a sore right middle finger. Kyle Stowers again took his place.UP NEXTThe Orioles face the Braves with RHP Dean Kremer (2-1, 6.67 ERA) on the mound for Friday night's opener. The Royals remain at Kauffman Stadium fora three-game set against Oakland with RHP Brad Keller (2-2, 3.56) getting the Friday night start.

Orioles blow 7-run lead, rally for 13-10 win over Royals

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Basketball Writer

LAWRENCE — All-American forward Hunter Dickinson, arguably the top player in the transfer portal after deciding to leave Michigan, said in a social media post Thursday that he was headed to Kansas for the upcoming season.

Dickinson chose the Jayhawks after visits to Villanova, Kentucky, Maryland and Georgetown.

The 7-foot-1 center led the Wolverines to a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and a trip to the Elite Eight as a freshman during the 2020-21 season. Dickinson averaged 18.6 points in helping them reach the Sweet 16 two years ago and 18.5 points and a career-best 9.0 rebounds last season, when he was voted an honorable mention All-American.

"The initial decision for me to enter the portal was the hardest decision I've ever had to make," Dickinson said in confirming Wednesday night that he would not return to Michigan, which had been a possibility. "The thought of potentially leaving the place I love and called home for three years was and is extraordinarily difficult to process. After conversations with my family and a lot of time in thought, I realized entering the portal was the best decision for myself and my future."

Dickinson had been quiet throughout his closely watched recruitment, though he did say on the "RoundBall" podcast this week that deciding where he would play next season had been weighing heavily on him.

"If I knew where I was going, I would have happily made the decision sooner," he said. "I really am struggling trying to pick a school. The good thing about all this is, all my options, I feel like if I went there, I would succeed. But it's just trying to figure out which one out of them is the best and the one I'm most comfortable at, stuff like that."

With him in the fold, the Jayhawks suddenly become one of the national title favorites heading into next season. They return starting point guard Dajuan Harris Jr., versatile forward KJ Adams and have added former five-star guard Arterio Morris from Texas and Towson sharp-shooter Nick Timberlake to go with one of the nation's best freshman classes.

Elmarko Jackson and Jamari McDowell are 6-foot-3 guards capable of running the point or playing off the ball, Chris Johnson is a touted 6-6 wing and Markus Adams Jr. is a 6-8 inside-outside forward. Jackson and Johnson are both top-10 prospects.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Basketball WriterLAWRENCE — All-American forward Hunter Dickinson, arguably the top player in the transfer portal after deciding to leave Michigan, said in a social media post Thursday that he was headed to Kansas for the upcoming season.Dickinson chose the Jayhawks after visits to Villanova, Kentucky, Maryland and Georgetown.The 7-foot-1 center led the Wolverines to a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and a trip to the Elite Eight as a freshman during the 2020-21 season. Dickinson averaged 18.6 points in helping them reach the Sweet 16 two years ago and 18.5 points and a career-best 9.0 rebounds last season, when he was voted an honorable mention All-American."The initial decision for me to enter the portal was the hardest decision I've ever had to make," Dickinson said in confirming Wednesday night that he would not return to Michigan, which had been a possibility. "The thought of potentially leaving the place I love and called home for three years was and is extraordinarily difficult to process. After conversations with my family and a lot of time in thought, I realized entering the portal was the best decision for myself and my future."Dickinson had been quiet throughout his closely watched recruitment, though he did say on the "RoundBall" podcast this week that deciding where he would play next season had been weighing heavily on him."If I knew where I was going, I would have happily made the decision sooner," he said. "I really am struggling trying to pick a school. The good thing about all this is, all my options, I feel like if I went there, I would succeed. But it's just trying to figure out which one out of them is the best and the one I'm most comfortable at, stuff like that."Turns out that answer was Kansas.With him in the fold, the Jayhawks suddenly become one of the national title favorites heading into next season. They return starting point guard Dajuan Harris Jr., versatile forward KJ Adams and have added former five-star guard Arterio Morris from Texas and Towson sharp-shooter Nick Timberlake to go with one of the nation's best freshman classes.Elmarko Jackson and Jamari McDowell are 6-foot-3 guards capable of running the point or playing off the ball, Chris Johnson is a touted 6-6 wing and Markus Adams Jr. is a 6-8 inside-outside forward. Jackson and Johnson are both top-10 prospects.

Michigan transfer Dickinson headed to Kansas next season

By KAREN MATTHEWS Associated Press

NEW YORK — The attorneys general of New York and California announced Thursday that they are investigating allegations of workplace discrimination at the NFL, citing lawsuits filed by employees that describe sex, racial and age bias, sexual harassment, and a hostile work environment.

Attorneys General Letitia James, of New York, and Rob Bonta, of California, said they have issued subpoenas to NFL executives as part of an examination into the workplace culture at the the league's corporate offices in both states.

The officials, both Democrats, said they are exercising their legal authority to seek information from the NFL regarding allegations of gender pay disparities, harassment, and gender and racial discrimination.

The investigation focuses on the league's corporate offices, not specific teams or players.

"No person should ever have to endure harassment, discrimination, or objectification in the workplace," James said in a statement. Bonta said he and James have "serious concerns about the NFL's role in creating an extremely hostile and detrimental work environment."

The league said it would cooperate with the investigation but called the allegations "entirely inconsistent with the NFL's values and practices."

"The NFL offices are places where employees of all genders, races and backgrounds thrive. We do not tolerate discrimination in any form," league officials said in a statement.

James and Bonta cited a 2022 New York Times story that detailed allegations of gender discrimination by more than 30 former female NFL employees.

The women described a sexist culture at the NFL that they said persisted despite promises of reform that Commissioner Roger Goodell made after the 2014 release of a video that showed Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice punching his fiancee.

One former NFL executive, Theresa Locklear, who held the position of director of business intelligence and optimization, told the Times that after the Rice video became public, managers were told to speak to their staffs about the video and the league's response to it.

Locklear said that when she met with her team, a male employee, Aaron Jones, argued that Rice's fiancée was partly at fault because she had egged Rice on, and other men on the call seemed to agree.

Jones told the Times that he had never spoken to Locklear about Rice and would never have argued that a woman was to blame for her assault.

The attorneys general also cited a lawsuit filed this year in Los Angeles Superior Court by Jennifer Love, a former director for NFL Enterprises, who attributed her 2022 layoff to retaliation for her complaints of "pervasive sexism" and a "boys' club" mentality.

NFL spokesperson Alex Riethmiller said the league had no comment on the Love's lawsuit.

The wide-ranging investigation by New York and California officials into employment practices at the NFL appears to be unprecedented, although complaints of race and sex discrimination have dogged the league and individual teams.

The Washington Commanders, owner Dan Snyder, the NFL and Goodell were sued by the attorney general for the District of Columbia in November for colluding to deceive fans by lying about an inquiry into "sexual misconduct and a persistently hostile work environment" within the team. D.C. and Maryland also investigated and settled with the team over withholding fans' season-ticket deposit money.

Fired Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores filed a federal lawsuit against the NFL and three teams last year over alleged racist hiring practices for coaches and general managers, saying the league remains "rife with racism."

The NFL has said Flores' claims are without merit.

Associated Press writers Rob Maaddi and Stephen Whyno contributed.

By KAREN MATTHEWS Associated PressNEW YORK — The attorneys general of New York and California announced Thursday that they are investigating allegations of workplace discrimination at the NFL, citing lawsuits filed by employees that describe sex, racial and age bias, sexual harassment, and a hostile work environment.Attorneys General Letitia James, of New York, and Rob Bonta, of California, said they have issued subpoenas to NFL executives as part of an examination into the workplace culture at the the league's corporate offices in both states.The officials, both Democrats, said they are exercising their legal authority to seek information from the NFL regarding allegations of gender pay disparities, harassment, and gender and racial discrimination.The investigation focuses on the league's corporate offices, not specific teams or players."No person should ever have to endure harassment, discrimination, or objectification in the workplace," James said in a statement. Bonta said he and James have "serious concerns about the NFL's role in creating an extremely hostile and detrimental work environment."The league said it would cooperate with the investigation but called the allegations "entirely inconsistent with the NFL's values and practices.""The NFL offices are places where employees of all genders, races and backgrounds thrive. We do not tolerate discrimination in any form," league officials said in a statement.James and Bonta cited a 2022 New York Times story that detailed allegations of gender discrimination by more than 30 former female NFL employees.The women described a sexist culture at the NFL that they said persisted despite promises of reform that Commissioner Roger Goodell made after the 2014 release of a video that showed Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice punching his fiancee.One former NFL executive, Theresa Locklear, who held the position of director of business intelligence and optimization, told the Times that after the Rice video became public, managers were told to speak to their staffs about the video and the league's response to it.Locklear said that when she met with her team, a male employee, Aaron Jones, argued that Rice's fiancée was partly at fault because she had egged Rice on, and other men on the call seemed to agree.Jones told the Times that he had never spoken to Locklear about Rice and would never have argued that a woman was to blame for her assault.The attorneys general also cited a lawsuit filed this year in Los Angeles Superior Court by Jennifer Love, a former director for NFL Enterprises, who attributed her 2022 layoff to retaliation for her complaints of "pervasive sexism" and a "boys' club" mentality.NFL spokesperson Alex Riethmiller said the league had no comment on the Love's lawsuit.The wide-ranging investigation by New York and California officials into employment practices at the NFL appears to be unprecedented, although complaints of race and sex discrimination have dogged the league and individual teams.The Washington Commanders, owner Dan Snyder, the NFL and Goodell were sued by the attorney general for the District of Columbia in November for colluding to deceive fans by lying about an inquiry into "sexual misconduct and a persistently hostile work environment" within the team. D.C. and Maryland also investigated and settled with the team over withholding fans' season-ticket deposit money.Fired Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores filed a federal lawsuit against the NFL and three teams last year over alleged racist hiring practices for coaches and general managers, saying the league remains "rife with racism."The NFL has said Flores' claims are without merit.Associated Press writers Rob Maaddi and Stephen Whyno contributed.

New York, California probing workplace discrimination at NFL

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs signed offensive tackle Donovan Smith to a contract for the upcoming season Thursday, adding a veteran to compete for playing time with two open jobs on the offensive line.

The Chiefs were unable to sign franchise left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. to a long-term deal, allowing him to become a free agent, and right tackle Andrew Wylie also signed elsewhere in free agency. The Chiefs countered by signing Jawaan Taylor to handle one of the tackle jobs, but that still left an opening at the other tackle position.

Taylor was expected to move from the right side to the left side to protect the blindside of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and that would have allowed oft-injured Lucas Niang to compete with third-round pick Wanya Morris for the right tackle position.

Smith's acquisition could change those plans.

The 29-year-old Smith, who was released by the Buccaneers on March 7, started 124 regular-season games from the moment he became a second-round pick in 2015 through last season. But Smith struggled much of last season, partly due to elbow and foot injuries that caused him to miss four games, and that helped Tampa Bay reach the decision to let him go.

Smith will have to earn the job, of course, but his experience will be a significant factor. Taylor has played just 18 snaps on the left side in his entire career; Smith has played 8,473 during his eight seasons in the NFL.

Niang earned the starting right tackle job in 2021 but struggled with injuries, first a shoulder problem and then a rib injury that caused him to miss four games. He then tore a patellar tendon in Week 17 and was placed on injured reserve.

Morris was a five-star recruit to Tennessee before transferring to Oklahoma, where he played his last two seasons. He also dealt with injuries, missing time with a shoulder problem, before opting out of the Sooners' bowl game this past season.

"I think we'll have good competition between Niang (and) Wanya, and then I think (Darian) Kinnard has some flexibility, too," Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said earlier this week, in discussing the competition along the offensive line.

"I think all three of those guys will bounce in there. Kinnard will go back and forth to tackle and guard, and I think Wanya has some tackle guard-flex," Veach said. "So I think you'll see (offensive line) coach (Andy) Heck do a great job of just mixing and matching. Then we get to training camp (and) just let the competition speak for itself."

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs signed offensive tackle Donovan Smith to a contract for the upcoming season Thursday, adding a veteran to compete for playing time with two open jobs on the offensive line.The Chiefs were unable to sign franchise left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. to a long-term deal, allowing him to become a free agent, and right tackle Andrew Wylie also signed elsewhere in free agency. The Chiefs countered by signing Jawaan Taylor to handle one of the tackle jobs, but that still left an opening at the other tackle position.Taylor was expected to move from the right side to the left side to protect the blindside of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and that would have allowed oft-injured Lucas Niang to compete with third-round pick Wanya Morris for the right tackle position.Smith's acquisition could change those plans.The 29-year-old Smith, who was released by the Buccaneers on March 7, started 124 regular-season games from the moment he became a second-round pick in 2015 through last season. But Smith struggled much of last season, partly due to elbow and foot injuries that caused him to miss four games, and that helped Tampa Bay reach the decision to let him go.Smith will have to earn the job, of course, but his experience will be a significant factor. Taylor has played just 18 snaps on the left side in his entire career; Smith has played 8,473 during his eight seasons in the NFL.Niang earned the starting right tackle job in 2021 but struggled with injuries, first a shoulder problem and then a rib injury that caused him to miss four games. He then tore a patellar tendon in Week 17 and was placed on injured reserve.Morris was a five-star recruit to Tennessee before transferring to Oklahoma, where he played his last two seasons. He also dealt with injuries, missing time with a shoulder problem, before opting out of the Sooners' bowl game this past season."I think we'll have good competition between Niang (and) Wanya, and then I think (Darian) Kinnard has some flexibility, too," Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said earlier this week, in discussing the competition along the offensive line."I think all three of those guys will bounce in there. Kinnard will go back and forth to tackle and guard, and I think Wanya has some tackle guard-flex," Veach said. "So I think you'll see (offensive line) coach (Andy) Heck do a great job of just mixing and matching. Then we get to training camp (and) just let the competition speak for itself."

Chiefs sign tackle Donovan Smith to 1-year deal

MANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added local backcourt help as former Wichita Heights All-State selection Zyanna Walker has transferred to the Wildcats for the 2023-24 season. Walker will have three seasons of eligibility.

Prior to joining the Wildcats, Walker played in five games and averaged 10.6 minutes per game in the 2022-23 season at Louisville. The product of Wichita, Kansas, notched 13 points (2.6 ppg) on 60.0 percent (6-of-10) shooting from the field including 1-of-2 from beyond the arc. She hauled in seven rebounds (1.4 rpg).

During her high school career at Wichita Heights, Walker was rated as a four-star prospect and ranked #15 in the nation by Prep Girls Hoops. She ranked #38 overall and the #8 guard in the class of 2022 by espnW HoopGurlz. Walker was named the 2022 Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year and to the 2022 Naismith High School Trophy Underclassmen Girls Watch List. At the conclusion of the 2020 season, Walker was selected to the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Class 6A All-State Second Team.

In the 2021-22 season, Walker averaged 25.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 5.1 steals. She also averaged 20 points per game in the 2019-20 season.

K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683225491556.png" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://kstatesports.com">kstatesports.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State SportsMANHATTAN –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball head coach Jeff Mittie has added local backcourt help as former Wichita Heights All-State selection Zyanna Walker has transferred to the Wildcats for the 2023-24 season. Walker will have three seasons of eligibility.Prior to joining the Wildcats, Walker played in five games and averaged 10.6 minutes per game in the 2022-23 season at Louisville. The product of Wichita, Kansas, notched 13 points (2.6 ppg) on 60.0 percent (6-of-10) shooting from the field including 1-of-2 from beyond the arc. She hauled in seven rebounds (1.4 rpg).During her high school career at Wichita Heights, Walker was rated as a four-star prospect and ranked #15 in the nation by Prep Girls Hoops. She ranked #38 overall and the #8 guard in the class of 2022 by espnW HoopGurlz. Walker was named the 2022 Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year and to the 2022 Naismith High School Trophy Underclassmen Girls Watch List. At the conclusion of the 2020 season, Walker was selected to the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association (KBCA) Class 6A All-State Second Team.In the 2021-22 season, Walker averaged 25.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 5.1 steals. She also averaged 20 points per game in the 2019-20 season.K-State concluded its 55th season of action with a 19-17 record and the 33rd postseason appearance in program history with its seventh bid into the WNIT. Earlier this season, the Wildcats became the 19th program in NCAA Division I history to surpass the 1,000-win mark.

K-State women's basketball adds Walker to 2023-24 roster

By MARC BOWMAN Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0 on Wednesday night.

Greinke (1-4) won for the first time in 14 starts, allowing just three singles in five innings and striking out three. He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016.

The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium.

Pasquantino homered into the right-field bullpen to give Kansas City a fourth-inning lead in a game that lasted just 1 hour, 59 minutes. He doubled in another run in the sixth to put the Royals up 2-0.

The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson (4-1) out of the game with four runs in the seventh, highlighted by Pasquantino's second RBI double.

Gibson allowed six runs and 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings, with no walks or strikeouts — the only start of his career in which he had none in either category.

Anthony Santander had a pair of singles for the Orioles, who were shut out for the first time since Oct. 1 against the Yankees.

LHP Kris Bubic, who will undergo Tommy John surgery, was transferred to the 60-day IL.

Baltimore designated RHP Joey Krehbiel for assignment and acquired C Luis Torrens from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. ... Royals RHP Jose Cuas was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and LHP Austin Cox was selected from Omaha.

RHP Grayson Rodriguez (1-0, 4.07 ERA) will face RHP Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.11) in the rubber game Thursday. —

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683165813214.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) congratulates Vinnie Pasquantino (9) as he crosses home plate after hitting a home run during the fourth inning of the game against the Baltimore Orioles in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' MJ Melendez (1) congratulates Vinnie Pasquantino (9) as he crosses home plate after hitting a home run during the fourth inning of the game against the Baltimore Orioles in Kansas City, Mo., Wednesday. (AP Photo/Colin E. Braley)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARC BOWMAN Associated PressKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in three runs, Zack Greinke won for the first time since last August and the Kansas City Royals snapped a 10-game home losing streak by beating the Baltimore Orioles 6-0 on Wednesday night.Greinke (1-4) won for the first time in 14 starts, allowing just three singles in five innings and striking out three. He threw only 44 pitches —- his fewest in a start since tossing 43 for Arizona at Boston on Aug. 14, 2016.The Royals won their second home game of the season to improve to 2-13 at Kauffman Stadium.Pasquantino homered into the right-field bullpen to give Kansas City a fourth-inning lead in a game that lasted just 1 hour, 59 minutes. He doubled in another run in the sixth to put the Royals up 2-0.The Royals knocked Kyle Gibson (4-1) out of the game with four runs in the seventh, highlighted by Pasquantino's second RBI double.Gibson allowed six runs and 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings, with no walks or strikeouts — the only start of his career in which he had none in either category.Anthony Santander had a pair of singles for the Orioles, who were shut out for the first time since Oct. 1 against the Yankees.TRAINER'S ROOMLHP Kris Bubic, who will undergo Tommy John surgery, was transferred to the 60-day IL.TRANSACTIONSBaltimore designated RHP Joey Krehbiel for assignment and acquired C Luis Torrens from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. ... Royals RHP Jose Cuas was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and LHP Austin Cox was selected from Omaha.UP NEXTRHP Grayson Rodriguez (1-0, 4.07 ERA) will face RHP Jordan Lyles (0-5, 6.11) in the rubber game Thursday. —

Pasquantino HRs, Greinke wins 1st as Royals top Orioles 6-0

On Wednesday Junction City High School announced the hiring of three new coaches.

&nbsp;Shambrea Steele, JCHS's new J-Stepper head coach, is currently finishing up her student teaching in Wamego, KS and will graduate this May from Emporia State University with her bachelor's degree in elementary education. Steele will begin teaching this fall for USD 475 as a kindergarten teacher at Seitz Elementary. 

“I cannot wait to start getting to know the dancers and get back to sharing my passion for dancing with our team," Steele said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;JCHS graduate Aryus Jones is the new Blue Jays wrestling coach. Jones currently teaches and coaches at Blue Valley High School in Overland Park, KS.

&nbsp;“I am very proud to be home in Junction City once again. This is truly a childhood dream of mine to be able to return to my city and lead young people into successful futures. I have coached and wrestled all over the country but there is no place like JC. This community is a big part of who I am today and I am truly blessed and beyond excited to get to work with athletes and students. Go Blue Jays!”

After graduating in 2017 from JCHS, Jones went on to wrestle at Fort Hays State University. Jones was formally ranked 7th in the nation of NCAA Division II, 2020 NCAA Championship qualifier (COVID cancellation year), 3x Academic All-American. 

Jones received his bachelor's degree in criminal justice and is currently finishing up his master’s in special education. Jones will be teaching in the special education department at JCHS at the start of the 2023-2024 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conor Reilly is the new Lady Jay basketball coach. Reilly has been the head women’s basketball coach at Hutchinson High School where he has focused on building a reputation for creating a positive, supportive, and disciplined team environment. 

 “Throughout my time as head coach, my teams have gone 52-32. I am incredibly proud of the progress we made together and the many accomplishments we achieved. Through hard work, dedication, and a relentless focus on growth and improvement, we became one of the top teams in the league. I look forward to working with the Lady Blue Jays and building something special in Junction City.” 

Reilly holds a bachelor's degree in education from Bethany College and a master's degree in administration from Fort Hays University. Reilly will begin teaching in the Social Studies Department at JCHS at the start of the 2023-2023 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

JCHSOn Wednesday Junction City High School announced the hiring of three new coaches. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683139636774.jpeg" alt="Shambrea Steele,&nbsp; new J-Stepper head coach at JCHS." />
 <figcaption>Shambrea Steele,&nbsp; new J-Stepper head coach at JCHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Shambrea Steele, JCHS's new J-Stepper head coach, is currently finishing up her student teaching in Wamego, KS and will graduate this May from Emporia State University with her bachelor's degree in elementary education. Steele will begin teaching this fall for USD 475 as a kindergarten teacher at Seitz Elementary. “I cannot wait to start getting to know the dancers and get back to sharing my passion for dancing with our team," Steele said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683139670648.jpeg" alt=" Aryus Jones, new Blue Jays wrestling coach" />
 <figcaption> Aryus Jones, new Blue Jays wrestling coach</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JCHS graduate Aryus Jones is the new Blue Jays wrestling coach. Jones currently teaches and coaches at Blue Valley High School in Overland Park, KS.&nbsp;“I am very proud to be home in Junction City once again. This is truly a childhood dream of mine to be able to return to my city and lead young people into successful futures. I have coached and wrestled all over the country but there is no place like JC. This community is a big part of who I am today and I am truly blessed and beyond excited to get to work with athletes and students. Go Blue Jays!”After graduating in 2017 from JCHS, Jones went on to wrestle at Fort Hays State University. Jones was formally ranked 7th in the nation of NCAA Division II, 2020 NCAA Championship qualifier (COVID cancellation year), 3x Academic All-American. Jones received his bachelor's degree in criminal justice and is currently finishing up his master’s in special education. Jones will be teaching in the special education department at JCHS at the start of the 2023-2024 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683139707001.jpeg" alt="Conor Reilly, new Lady Jay basketball coach" />
 <figcaption>Conor Reilly, new Lady Jay basketball coach</figcaption>
 </figure>Conor Reilly is the new Lady Jay basketball coach. Reilly has been the head women’s basketball coach at Hutchinson High School where he has focused on building a reputation for creating a positive, supportive, and disciplined team environment. “Throughout my time as head coach, my teams have gone 52-32. I am incredibly proud of the progress we made together and the many accomplishments we achieved. Through hard work, dedication, and a relentless focus on growth and improvement, we became one of the top teams in the league. I look forward to working with the Lady Blue Jays and building something special in Junction City.” Reilly holds a bachelor's degree in education from Bethany College and a master's degree in administration from Fort Hays University. Reilly will begin teaching in the Social Studies Department at JCHS at the start of the 2023-2023 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

JCHS announces new coaches

KANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Aroldis Chapman&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for March/April. The awards are determined by a local media vote.

Pasquantino slashed .279/.375/.500 (29-for-104) over 29 games through the end of April. His .375 on-base percentage over that stretch led all Royals and ranked 9th in the American League, trailing leader&nbsp;Matt Chapman&nbsp;(.465 OBP). Pasquantino also led the club in total bases (52), hits (29), doubles (8), home runs (5) and walks (15) over the first month of the 2023 season. He drew nearly as many walks as he had strikeouts (16) and his 7.56 rate of plate appearances per strikeout ranked 10th best in the AL. Pasquantino reached base safely in 26 of his 29 games played, including in 21 straight from April 5-27, which matched his career-best on-base streak and at the time was the 4th-longest active streak in the Majors. Over his 21-game run, he slashed .312/.398/.584 (24-for-77) with 11 extra-base hits (6 doubles, 5 home runs). Of his team-leading 5 home runs in April, 3 either tied the game or gave the Royals a lead, including his game-tying 2-run homer with 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th inning on April 16 vs. Atlanta. This marks Pasquantino’s second consecutive monthly honor, following last September/October.

Chapman led all Royals pitchers with a 1.74 ERA (2 ER in 10.1 IP) over 11 appearances in March/April and posted a 16.5 K/9 rate (19 K in 10.1 IP), which led all American League relievers (min. 10.0 IP) and trailed only Philadelphia’s&nbsp;José Alvarado&nbsp;(17.5 K/9) for the highest rate in the Majors. Of his 11 relief outings, 9 were scoreless, and he held opponents hitless in 7 of those appearances. He earned his 1st save as a Royal on April 8 at San Francisco, where he spun a 1-2-3 9th inning with 2 strikeouts in a 6-5 victory. On April 4, he threw 10 pitches of at least 100.0 mph in the 9th inning, marking just the 10th time since 2008 that a Royals pitcher has thrown at least 10 pitches at that speed. His 0-2 pitch in that game to&nbsp;Bo Bichette&nbsp;registered at 103.5 mph, matching the fastest pitch by a Royal since data is available (2008), previously done by&nbsp;Kelvin Herrera&nbsp;on April 17, 2012. After making just 11 appearances this season, Chapman has thrown 7 of the fastest 10 pitches ever recorded by a Royal. This is Chapman’s first monthly honor as a Royal after signing with the club as a free agent in January. The 14-year veteran has earned seven All-Star Game selections and was named the&nbsp;Mariano Rivera&nbsp;American League Reliever of the Year in 2019.

Kansas City RoyalsKANSAS CITY, Mo.—The Kansas City Royals announced this afternoon that infielder&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino&nbsp;and left-handed pitcher&nbsp;Aroldis Chapman&nbsp;have been named Royals Player and Pitcher of the Month, respectively, for March/April. The awards are determined by a local media vote.Pasquantino slashed .279/.375/.500 (29-for-104) over 29 games through the end of April. His .375 on-base percentage over that stretch led all Royals and ranked 9th in the American League, trailing leader&nbsp;Matt Chapman&nbsp;(.465 OBP). Pasquantino also led the club in total bases (52), hits (29), doubles (8), home runs (5) and walks (15) over the first month of the 2023 season. He drew nearly as many walks as he had strikeouts (16) and his 7.56 rate of plate appearances per strikeout ranked 10th best in the AL. Pasquantino reached base safely in 26 of his 29 games played, including in 21 straight from April 5-27, which matched his career-best on-base streak and at the time was the 4th-longest active streak in the Majors. Over his 21-game run, he slashed .312/.398/.584 (24-for-77) with 11 extra-base hits (6 doubles, 5 home runs). Of his team-leading 5 home runs in April, 3 either tied the game or gave the Royals a lead, including his game-tying 2-run homer with 2 outs in the bottom of the 7th inning on April 16 vs. Atlanta. This marks Pasquantino’s second consecutive monthly honor, following last September/October.Chapman led all Royals pitchers with a 1.74 ERA (2 ER in 10.1 IP) over 11 appearances in March/April and posted a 16.5 K/9 rate (19 K in 10.1 IP), which led all American League relievers (min. 10.0 IP) and trailed only Philadelphia’s&nbsp;José Alvarado&nbsp;(17.5 K/9) for the highest rate in the Majors. Of his 11 relief outings, 9 were scoreless, and he held opponents hitless in 7 of those appearances. He earned his 1st save as a Royal on April 8 at San Francisco, where he spun a 1-2-3 9th inning with 2 strikeouts in a 6-5 victory. On April 4, he threw 10 pitches of at least 100.0 mph in the 9th inning, marking just the 10th time since 2008 that a Royals pitcher has thrown at least 10 pitches at that speed. His 0-2 pitch in that game to&nbsp;Bo Bichette&nbsp;registered at 103.5 mph, matching the fastest pitch by a Royal since data is available (2008), previously done by&nbsp;Kelvin Herrera&nbsp;on April 17, 2012. After making just 11 appearances this season, Chapman has thrown 7 of the fastest 10 pitches ever recorded by a Royal. This is Chapman’s first monthly honor as a Royal after signing with the club as a free agent in January. The 14-year veteran has earned seven All-Star Game selections and was named the&nbsp;Mariano Rivera&nbsp;American League Reliever of the Year in 2019.

Pasquantino, Chapman earn Royals monthly honors

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— One day after earning Player of the Week honors, Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha was named to the NWSL March/April Best XI, presented by Mastercard,&nbsp;by the NWSL Media Association and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent.&nbsp; 

This is her eighth time earning this monthly award, moving her into a tie with Abby Erceg for the fourth most all-time.

Debinha has scored in each of the last three games, including the club’s first brace last week against NJ/NY Gotham. Although the first for the Current, it was the fourth time in her career that the Brazilian midfielder has scored two or more goals in a game.

Mastercard and the NWSL launched the Best XI of the Month awards platform with the First Team and Second Team honors for the 22 top players of the league after the 2021 season. Mastercard believes that our world is full of brilliant possibilities and unlocking the potential in every person across all parts of their life is what Priceless is all about. The development of the Best XI is a further commitment from the company to connect NWSL fans to the league and the athletes they love.

The NWSL Best XI of the Month is selected each month of the regular season by the NWSL Media Association, a collection of writers that cover the league on a consistent basis, and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent. The full team for March/April is below:

NWSL MARCH/APRIL BEST XI, PRESENTED BY MASTERCARD

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673314121733.png" alt="Debinha. Photo courtesy Kansas City Current" />
 <figcaption>Debinha. Photo courtesy Kansas City Current</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City CurrentKANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;— One day after earning Player of the Week honors, Kansas City Current midfielder Debinha was named to the NWSL March/April Best XI, presented by Mastercard,&nbsp;by the NWSL Media Association and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent.&nbsp; This is her eighth time earning this monthly award, moving her into a tie with Abby Erceg for the fourth most all-time.Debinha has scored in each of the last three games, including the club’s first brace last week against NJ/NY Gotham. Although the first for the Current, it was the fourth time in her career that the Brazilian midfielder has scored two or more goals in a game.Mastercard and the NWSL launched the Best XI of the Month awards platform with the First Team and Second Team honors for the 22 top players of the league after the 2021 season. Mastercard believes that our world is full of brilliant possibilities and unlocking the potential in every person across all parts of their life is what Priceless is all about. The development of the Best XI is a further commitment from the company to connect NWSL fans to the league and the athletes they love.The NWSL Best XI of the Month is selected each month of the regular season by the NWSL Media Association, a collection of writers that cover the league on a consistent basis, and the NWSL’s on-air broadcast talent. The full team for March/April is below:NWSL MARCH/APRIL BEST XI, PRESENTED BY MASTERCARDGK – Phallon Tullis-Joyce (RGN)D – Naomi Girma (SD)D – Emily Fox (NC)D – Becky Sauerbrunn (POR)D – Sam Staab (WAS)M – Debinha (KC)M – Crystal Dunn (POR)M – Jess Fishlock (RGN)F – Bethany Balcer (RGN)F – Sophia Smith (POR)F – Lynn Williams (NJY)

Kansas City Current's Debinha earns second honor this week

By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football Writer

The Brock Purdy impact was in full effect in this year's NFL draft. A year after the San Francisco 49ers found their starting quarterback with the final pick of the draft, teams were far more aggressive when it came to drafting quarterbacks in the later rounds. Three quarterbacks went in the fourth round for the second time in the past 10 drafts and four quarterbacks went in round five for the first time since 2002. That led to a record 12 QBs going in the first five rounds for the first time ever in the common draft era that started in 1967.

The Brock Purdy impact was in full effect in this year's NFL draft.

A year after the San Francisco 49ers found their starting quarterback with the final pick of the draft, teams were far more aggressive when it came to drafting quarterbacks in the later rounds.

Three quarterbacks went in the fourth round for the second time in the past 10 drafts and four quarterbacks went in round five for the first time since 2002. That led to a record 12 QBs going in the first five rounds for the first time ever in the common draft era that started in 1967. The previous high was 11 in 1995.

The run on QBs started early with Bryce Young going first to Carolina and C.J. Stroud going second to Houston — marking the ninth time quarterbacks went 1-2 in the common draft era, with five of those coming in the last 12 drafts.

Indianapolis then took Anthony Richardson fourth, marking the fourth time that three quarterbacks were taken with the first four picks.

Things slowed down from there with Will Levis waiting until round two to go to Tennessee and Hendon Hooker being drafted in the third round by Detroit.

Then the run on QBs started late in the fourth round when Fresno State's Jake Haener went 124th overall to New Orleans. Six more quarterbacks followed in the next 37 picks as the philosophy of passing on late-round QBs who historically have little chance of developing into top-flight starters changed.

Some of that could be because of Purdy, who went from being "Mr. Irrelevant" as the final pick of the 2022 draft to winning his first seven starts as a rookie to help the 49ers reach the NFC title game last season.

While the chances that the QBs that went on day three of the draft will develop into starters are low, the payoff if it happens was high enough to justify the risk.

Two-time national champion Stetson Bennett went to the Rams the pick after Haener, with the Raiders taking Aidan O'Connell with the final pick of the fourth round. The Rams and Raiders had been the only teams not to select a QB in any round the previous six drafts.

The fifth-round run started with Clayton Tune going to Arizona at No. 139, followed by Dorian Thompson-Robinson (140 to the Browns), Sean Clifford (149 to the Packers) and Jaren Hall (164 to the Vikings).

The final two QBs off the board were Tanner McKee to the Eagles in the sixth round and Max Duggan to the Chargers in the seventh.

In all, 14 quarterbacks were drafted last weekend, tied for the second most in the last 2 drafts behind the 15 from 2016.

This draft was viewed as a strong one for tight ends and that played out on day two when a record five went off the board in the second round and three more in the third.

It took a while for the first tight end to go with Buffalo trading up to take Dalton Kincaid with the 25th pick.

But that all changed Friday with Detroit taking Sam LaPorta with the third pick of the second round and Las Vegas grabbing Michael Mayer one spot later. Green Bay then took Luke Musgrave 44th, Dallas drafted Luke Schoonmaker 58th and Jacksonville took Brenton Strange 61st.

This marked the first time in the common draft era that five tight ends were taken in round two and the six that went in the first rounds tied 1974 for the most ever.

Tucker Kraft, Darnell Washington and Cameron Latu went in round three with the nine tight ends going in the first three rounds breaking the record of eight reached in 2006 and 2019.

While the drafts were notable to tight ends and quarterbacks, the volume of picks was focused as usual in the trenches and on the perimeter.

There were 56 defensive backs drafted — the most of any position — as the increased of extra DBs in nickel and dime packages have put a premium on depth at that spot.

Teams also combined 43 offensive linemen, as well as 43 defensive linemen. Receivers came in next at 32.

Only six specialists were taken but the 49ers did surprise many by drafting kicker Jake Moody 99th overall — the highest pick for a kicker since Tampa Bay took Roberto Aguayo with the 59th pick in 2016.

After years of dominating on the field and in recruiting rankings, it was no surprise that Alabama and Georgia led the way with 10 draft picks each.

The Bulldogs have now had 25 players taken in the past two drafts from teams that have won national championships each year. New England sixth-round Ameer Speed played on the 2021 title team before transferring to Michigan State, giving Georgia 26 draft picks from that team that ended a four-decade championship drought.

Fourteen members of that 2021 defense have been drafted with five going to the Eagles: Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean in 2022, and Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith and Kelee Ringo this year.

By JOSH DUBOW AP Pro Football WriterThe Brock Purdy impact was in full effect in this year's NFL draft. A year after the San Francisco 49ers found their starting quarterback with the final pick of the draft, teams were far more aggressive when it came to drafting quarterbacks in the later rounds. Three quarterbacks went in the fourth round for the second time in the past 10 drafts and four quarterbacks went in round five for the first time since 2002. That led to a record 12 QBs going in the first five rounds for the first time ever in the common draft era that started in 1967.The Brock Purdy impact was in full effect in this year's NFL draft.A year after the San Francisco 49ers found their starting quarterback with the final pick of the draft, teams were far more aggressive when it came to drafting quarterbacks in the later rounds.Three quarterbacks went in the fourth round for the second time in the past 10 drafts and four quarterbacks went in round five for the first time since 2002. That led to a record 12 QBs going in the first five rounds for the first time ever in the common draft era that started in 1967. The previous high was 11 in 1995.The run on QBs started early with Bryce Young going first to Carolina and C.J. Stroud going second to Houston — marking the ninth time quarterbacks went 1-2 in the common draft era, with five of those coming in the last 12 drafts.Indianapolis then took Anthony Richardson fourth, marking the fourth time that three quarterbacks were taken with the first four picks.Things slowed down from there with Will Levis waiting until round two to go to Tennessee and Hendon Hooker being drafted in the third round by Detroit.Then the run on QBs started late in the fourth round when Fresno State's Jake Haener went 124th overall to New Orleans. Six more quarterbacks followed in the next 37 picks as the philosophy of passing on late-round QBs who historically have little chance of developing into top-flight starters changed.Some of that could be because of Purdy, who went from being "Mr. Irrelevant" as the final pick of the 2022 draft to winning his first seven starts as a rookie to help the 49ers reach the NFC title game last season.While the chances that the QBs that went on day three of the draft will develop into starters are low, the payoff if it happens was high enough to justify the risk.Two-time national champion Stetson Bennett went to the Rams the pick after Haener, with the Raiders taking Aidan O'Connell with the final pick of the fourth round. The Rams and Raiders had been the only teams not to select a QB in any round the previous six drafts.The fifth-round run started with Clayton Tune going to Arizona at No. 139, followed by Dorian Thompson-Robinson (140 to the Browns), Sean Clifford (149 to the Packers) and Jaren Hall (164 to the Vikings).The final two QBs off the board were Tanner McKee to the Eagles in the sixth round and Max Duggan to the Chargers in the seventh.In all, 14 quarterbacks were drafted last weekend, tied for the second most in the last 2 drafts behind the 15 from 2016.TOP TIGHT ENDSThis draft was viewed as a strong one for tight ends and that played out on day two when a record five went off the board in the second round and three more in the third.It took a while for the first tight end to go with Buffalo trading up to take Dalton Kincaid with the 25th pick.But that all changed Friday with Detroit taking Sam LaPorta with the third pick of the second round and Las Vegas grabbing Michael Mayer one spot later. Green Bay then took Luke Musgrave 44th, Dallas drafted Luke Schoonmaker 58th and Jacksonville took Brenton Strange 61st.This marked the first time in the common draft era that five tight ends were taken in round two and the six that went in the first rounds tied 1974 for the most ever.Tucker Kraft, Darnell Washington and Cameron Latu went in round three with the nine tight ends going in the first three rounds breaking the record of eight reached in 2006 and 2019.BY POSITIONSWhile the drafts were notable to tight ends and quarterbacks, the volume of picks was focused as usual in the trenches and on the perimeter.There were 56 defensive backs drafted — the most of any position — as the increased of extra DBs in nickel and dime packages have put a premium on depth at that spot.Teams also combined 43 offensive linemen, as well as 43 defensive linemen. Receivers came in next at 32.Only six specialists were taken but the 49ers did surprise many by drafting kicker Jake Moody 99th overall — the highest pick for a kicker since Tampa Bay took Roberto Aguayo with the 59th pick in 2016.ALMA MATERSAfter years of dominating on the field and in recruiting rankings, it was no surprise that Alabama and Georgia led the way with 10 draft picks each.The Bulldogs have now had 25 players taken in the past two drafts from teams that have won national championships each year. New England sixth-round Ameer Speed played on the 2021 title team before transferring to Michigan State, giving Georgia 26 draft picks from that team that ended a four-decade championship drought.Fourteen members of that 2021 defense have been drafted with five going to the Eagles: Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean in 2022, and Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith and Kelee Ringo this year.Alabama dominated the top of the draft with quarterback Bryce Young becoming the first Crimson Tide player since Harry Gilmer in 1948 to go first and edge rusher Will Anderson going third.It marked the fourth time since 2000 that college teammates went in the first three picks of the same draft with Ohio State's Chase Young and Jeff Okudah going at No. 2 and 3 in 2020, Oklahoma's Sam Bradford and Gerald McCoy going at No. 1 and 3 in 2010, and Penn State's Courtney Brown and LaVar Arrington going with the top two picks in 2000.The next schools on the list of most draft picks were two of the other teams to make the College Football Playoff with Michigan having nine players picked and TCU eight.