By DAVID BRANDT AP Baseball Writer

PHOENIX — Nick Ahmed took a healthy swing in the eighth inning, but was a little off on his timing. The ball squirted off the end of his bat, rolling slowly up the first base line.

That gave Christian Walker time to sprint home with the decisive run for Arizona.

It was far from a classic, but these are the kind of games the Diamondbacks have lost for years. Now a few of them — including Monday night's 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals — are starting to go their way.

"We're not going to score 10 every game or throw a no-hitter," Walker said. "So to win these tweeners, where we feel we have a chance to win, but it's a matter of executing and holding them off one more inning, for me, these are the games when you look back and you're proud of the season, these are the wins that need to happen."

Ahmed — who was pinch-hitting — brought home Walker with his one-out roller off reliever Aroldis Chapman (0-1) that was essentially a swinging bunt. First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino tried to get Walker at home, but the throw was late.

"That ball — you can't plan for that," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "I thought Vinnie made a nice attempt."

The NL West-leading D-backs improved to 13-11. The Royals have lost nine of their last 10 and fell to 5-18.

Arizona lefty Andrew Chafin (2-0) got the win with 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. He struck out Salvador Perez and Franmil Reyes to end the game. The veteran reliever threw 35 pitches, a long outing by his standards.

"The adrenaline of the game is going to help push through any issues," Chafin said. "Just taking it one pitch at a time and doing everything I can to get the job done."

Edward Olivares hit a solo homer in the first to give the Royals an early lead, but the Diamondbacks built a 4-2 advantage by the fourth, scoring two runs in both the second and third off Kansas City starter Brad Keller.

Keller struggled to throw strikes, giving up four runs in four innings on four hits and six walks. He threw 95 pitches.

"He just didn't have his normal command," Quatraro said.

Arizona's Tommy Henry threw 4 1/3 innings in his first start of the season, giving up three runs on four hits and four walks. The left-hander was called up from Triple-A to take the rotation spot of four-time All-Star Madison Bumgarner, who was designated for assignment last week.

The Royals cut the D-backs' lead to 4-3 in the fifth on Perez's RBI double and then tied the game in the eighth on Kyle Isbel's RBI single. Pasquantino had a three-hit night while Michael Massey and Perez both had two hits.

Arizona's Geraldo Perdomo and Pavin Smith also had two hits.

Royals: Reyes was reinstated from the paternity list. INF Nate Eaton was sent to Triple-A Omaha.

Diamondbacks: To make room for Henry on the roster, RHP Drey Jameson was optioned to Triple-A Reno. ... Walker was out of the starting lineup for a second straight game after getting hit by a pitch on the left forearm Saturday. He pinch-hit in the eighth and walked.

The three-game series continues Tuesday. The Royals will send RHP Brady Singer (1-2, 8.14 ERA) to the mound against RHP Ryne Nelson (1-0, 4.91).

By DAVID BRANDT AP Baseball WriterPHOENIX — Nick Ahmed took a healthy swing in the eighth inning, but was a little off on his timing. The ball squirted off the end of his bat, rolling slowly up the first base line.That gave Christian Walker time to sprint home with the decisive run for Arizona.It was far from a classic, but these are the kind of games the Diamondbacks have lost for years. Now a few of them — including Monday night's 5-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals — are starting to go their way."We're not going to score 10 every game or throw a no-hitter," Walker said. "So to win these tweeners, where we feel we have a chance to win, but it's a matter of executing and holding them off one more inning, for me, these are the games when you look back and you're proud of the season, these are the wins that need to happen."Ahmed — who was pinch-hitting — brought home Walker with his one-out roller off reliever Aroldis Chapman (0-1) that was essentially a swinging bunt. First baseman Vinnie Pasquantino tried to get Walker at home, but the throw was late."That ball — you can't plan for that," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "I thought Vinnie made a nice attempt."The NL West-leading D-backs improved to 13-11. The Royals have lost nine of their last 10 and fell to 5-18.Arizona lefty Andrew Chafin (2-0) got the win with 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief. He struck out Salvador Perez and Franmil Reyes to end the game. The veteran reliever threw 35 pitches, a long outing by his standards."The adrenaline of the game is going to help push through any issues," Chafin said. "Just taking it one pitch at a time and doing everything I can to get the job done."Edward Olivares hit a solo homer in the first to give the Royals an early lead, but the Diamondbacks built a 4-2 advantage by the fourth, scoring two runs in both the second and third off Kansas City starter Brad Keller.Keller struggled to throw strikes, giving up four runs in four innings on four hits and six walks. He threw 95 pitches."He just didn't have his normal command," Quatraro said.Arizona's Tommy Henry threw 4 1/3 innings in his first start of the season, giving up three runs on four hits and four walks. The left-hander was called up from Triple-A to take the rotation spot of four-time All-Star Madison Bumgarner, who was designated for assignment last week.The Royals cut the D-backs' lead to 4-3 in the fifth on Perez's RBI double and then tied the game in the eighth on Kyle Isbel's RBI single. Pasquantino had a three-hit night while Michael Massey and Perez both had two hits.Arizona's Geraldo Perdomo and Pavin Smith also had two hits.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Reyes was reinstated from the paternity list. INF Nate Eaton was sent to Triple-A Omaha.Diamondbacks: To make room for Henry on the roster, RHP Drey Jameson was optioned to Triple-A Reno. ... Walker was out of the starting lineup for a second straight game after getting hit by a pitch on the left forearm Saturday. He pinch-hit in the eighth and walked.UP NEXTThe three-game series continues Tuesday. The Royals will send RHP Brady Singer (1-2, 8.14 ERA) to the mound against RHP Ryne Nelson (1-0, 4.91).

Diamondbacks edge Royals 5-4 on Walker's sprint home

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

When Rick Ball moved to Great Bend in 1974 he was looking for a good way to exercise. Living close by, he eventually joined the golf
club, which has been known for years as Stoneridge Country Club. 

Along with
other investors, Ball eventually spent time in ownership of the 18-hole golf
course located on the northeast side of Great Bend on 24th Street. Although Stoneridge has had multiple owners since Ball and other investors sold the course in 2007, they “carried”
a financial note with the business.


The previous ownership failed to make mortgage payments for years, and after a
long, drawn-out court proceeding the new Club at Stoneridge owners took over ownership of the course last
December. Currently closed, Ball is now looking at what it will take to reopen
a once well-kept golf course. "It's going to take the involvement of former and new members; I'm not going to be able to do it by myself," said Ball. "We'll get others involved as soon as we get our arms around what all needs to be done." 
Ball said the court proceeding to foreclose on the course
dragged on for nearly two years.

There are over 120 acres throughout the golf course which has not been watered recently and has weeds taking over sections.
Ball noted the course needs to be addressed first but felt
like the clubhouse is also essential to make the venture successful. The clubhouse
features a bar and restaurant with a large kitchen, multiple banquet and
conference rooms, golf shop and a fitness room. Conversations have taken place with City of Great Bend officials on whether or not
the city wanted to get involved with the property to make the club into
a partial public course. Ball said he is open to continue those
conversations. "It would be nice to have the city involved somewhat," said Ball. "I'm a private businessman so I like to do things private, but there is a place for the city to participate also. If we don't go forward, I would consider this a negative for Great Bend if there is not a golf course for people to play. It helps bring businesses and people to town."

At the time, Ball does not have plans to keep or maintain the swimming pool at the
country club.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"There are people that have offered to step up and help financially to get it done," said Ball. "We'll welcome that if we make the final decision to go forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682110924001.jpeg" alt="After removing the previous owners, Rick Ball is figuring out what is needed to reopen Stoneridge Country Club in Great Bend." />
 <figcaption>After removing the previous owners, Rick Ball is figuring out what is needed to reopen Stoneridge Country Club in Great Bend.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostWhen Rick Ball moved to Great Bend in 1974 he was looking for a good way to exercise. Living close by, he eventually joined the golf
club, which has been known for years as Stoneridge Country Club. Along with
other investors, Ball eventually spent time in ownership of the 18-hole golf
course located on the northeast side of Great Bend on 24th Street. Although Stoneridge has had multiple owners since Ball and other investors sold the course in 2007, they “carried”
a financial note with the business.
The previous ownership failed to make mortgage payments for years, and after a
long, drawn-out court proceeding the new Club at Stoneridge owners took over ownership of the course last
December. Currently closed, Ball is now looking at what it will take to reopen
a once well-kept golf course. "It's going to take the involvement of former and new members; I'm not going to be able to do it by myself," said Ball. "We'll get others involved as soon as we get our arms around what all needs to be done." 
Ball said the court proceeding to foreclose on the course
dragged on for nearly two years.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/bHfWZ26B-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Gb Post Stone Ridge" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>There are over 120 acres throughout the golf course which has not been watered recently and has weeds taking over sections.
Ball noted the course needs to be addressed first but felt
like the clubhouse is also essential to make the venture successful. The clubhouse
features a bar and restaurant with a large kitchen, multiple banquet and
conference rooms, golf shop and a fitness room. Conversations have taken place with City of Great Bend officials on whether or not
the city wanted to get involved with the property to make the club into
a partial public course. Ball said he is open to continue those
conversations. "It would be nice to have the city involved somewhat," said Ball. "I'm a private businessman so I like to do things private, but there is a place for the city to participate also. If we don't go forward, I would consider this a negative for Great Bend if there is not a golf course for people to play. It helps bring businesses and people to town."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111141238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>At the time, Ball does not have plans to keep or maintain the swimming pool at the
country club.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;"There are people that have offered to step up and help financially to get it done," said Ball. "We'll welcome that if we make the final decision to go forward."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111360013.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111079567.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111329941.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111185950.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

'New' owners deciding what’s next for closed Great Bend golf course

By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football Writer

Once a fixture at Radio City Music Hall, the NFL draft has been an even bigger hit since it took to the road.

When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell steps to the podium on the giant stage in front of Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri, and announces the No. 1 pick on Thursday night, it'll be ninth draft since it left New York — and it's becoming a major boon for the league, teams and host cities.

"It's the second-biggest thing that we do and it's smack dab in the heart of our 'offseason.' There is no offseason," said Peter O'Reilly, the NFL's executive vice president, club business, major events and international. "And that's a testament to our fans and they're the ones who made the draft so much bigger and more special."

The NFL draft was in New York from 1965 to 2014. Radio City Music Hall, which hosted the draft nine times, saw the Rockettes' spring spectacular push the NFL draft into May in 2014. The league decided it wouldn't be kicked around again in 2015, so it moved the draft to Chicago for two years and saw tremendous results.

Philadelphia hosted the draft at the Art Museum in 2017, and Jerry's Palace in Dallas (aka AT&amp;T Stadium) became the first stadium site in 2018. Nashville and its honky tonks on Broadway drew a record crowd of 600,000 people over three days in 2019.

After COVID-19 postponed the 2020 draft, Cleveland had its turn to shine in 2021 and the party was on in Las Vegas in 2022. Next year, it'll be in Detroit, and the 2025 location will be decided at the league's spring meetings in May.

"We're most proud of the fact that we've been able to reach a lot more fans in different parts of the country, in many markets that have that aren't necessarily going to host a Super Bowl," O'Reilly said. "That opportunity to reach more fans and create this, without overstating it, this pilgrimage of fans, you see it every year."

O'Reilly also said that the drafts aren't "formulaic. You kind of start fresh every year because you get a new canvas and a new city."

The league uses iconic local settings and fan festivals in each city to enhance the draft's profile and boost the size of the crowds. There will be plenty of Kansas City's signature barbecue available — from food trucks — for people who come to the NFL draft and fan events being held at Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial.

The Chiefs just celebrated another Super Bowl victory with a championship parade two months ago and now red-and-clad fans will be joined by thousands of people from all over for a three-day extravaganza.

"I'm excited for the city," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "Obviously, all these people that are coming in for this are excited to be in Kansas City. You better get the barbecue fired up and ready to go because we'll have a lot of folks here."

The first draft was held in a hotel in Philadelphia over two days in February 1936 after Eagles owner Bert Bell convinced the league's other eight owners that teams should select players from college in reverse order of finish rather than sign them as free agents.

Eighty-one players were selected in the first one. Compare that to a record of 487 players chosen in 1976, when the draft was 17 rounds. Four years later, ESPN started broadcasting the draft.

It's down to seven rounds now and has been spread over three days since moving into prime-time in 2010.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682470460132.jpeg" alt="Work continues on the main stage for the NFL Draft Saturday at Union Station in Kansas City, Mo. The draft will run from Thursday to Saturday. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Work continues on the main stage for the NFL Draft Saturday at Union Station in Kansas City, Mo. The draft will run from Thursday to Saturday. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ROB MAADDI AP Pro Football WriterOnce a fixture at Radio City Music Hall, the NFL draft has been an even bigger hit since it took to the road.When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell steps to the podium on the giant stage in front of Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri, and announces the No. 1 pick on Thursday night, it'll be ninth draft since it left New York — and it's becoming a major boon for the league, teams and host cities."It's the second-biggest thing that we do and it's smack dab in the heart of our 'offseason.' There is no offseason," said Peter O'Reilly, the NFL's executive vice president, club business, major events and international. "And that's a testament to our fans and they're the ones who made the draft so much bigger and more special."The NFL draft was in New York from 1965 to 2014. Radio City Music Hall, which hosted the draft nine times, saw the Rockettes' spring spectacular push the NFL draft into May in 2014. The league decided it wouldn't be kicked around again in 2015, so it moved the draft to Chicago for two years and saw tremendous results.Philadelphia hosted the draft at the Art Museum in 2017, and Jerry's Palace in Dallas (aka AT&amp;T Stadium) became the first stadium site in 2018. Nashville and its honky tonks on Broadway drew a record crowd of 600,000 people over three days in 2019.After COVID-19 postponed the 2020 draft, Cleveland had its turn to shine in 2021 and the party was on in Las Vegas in 2022. Next year, it'll be in Detroit, and the 2025 location will be decided at the league's spring meetings in May."We're most proud of the fact that we've been able to reach a lot more fans in different parts of the country, in many markets that have that aren't necessarily going to host a Super Bowl," O'Reilly said. "That opportunity to reach more fans and create this, without overstating it, this pilgrimage of fans, you see it every year."O'Reilly also said that the drafts aren't "formulaic. You kind of start fresh every year because you get a new canvas and a new city."The league uses iconic local settings and fan festivals in each city to enhance the draft's profile and boost the size of the crowds. There will be plenty of Kansas City's signature barbecue available — from food trucks — for people who come to the NFL draft and fan events being held at Union Station and the National WWI Museum and Memorial.The Chiefs just celebrated another Super Bowl victory with a championship parade two months ago and now red-and-clad fans will be joined by thousands of people from all over for a three-day extravaganza."I'm excited for the city," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "Obviously, all these people that are coming in for this are excited to be in Kansas City. You better get the barbecue fired up and ready to go because we'll have a lot of folks here."The first draft was held in a hotel in Philadelphia over two days in February 1936 after Eagles owner Bert Bell convinced the league's other eight owners that teams should select players from college in reverse order of finish rather than sign them as free agents.Eighty-one players were selected in the first one. Compare that to a record of 487 players chosen in 1976, when the draft was 17 rounds. Four years later, ESPN started broadcasting the draft.It's down to seven rounds now and has been spread over three days since moving into prime-time in 2010.

NFL draft a boon for cities, teams since it hit the road

HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;- The Kansas State men's golf team carded a 31-over par 591 over the first two rounds of the 2023 Big 12 Championship on Monday held at the par-70, 7,025-yard Prairie Dunes Country Club. The Wildcats, ranked 24th in the nation by Golfstat, carded a 17-over par 297 in the morning round before a 14-over par 294 in the afternoon, as K-State is in ninth place midway through the championship. Four Wildcats are within two shots of each other heading into Tuesday's third round, led by junior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/luke-o-neill/9691">Luke O'Neill</a>. The Connemara, Ireland, native went 1-over par 71 in the morning and was 6-over par 76 in the afternoon. He will begin play on Tuesday in a tie for 23rd place at 7-over par 147. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/will-hopkins/9688">Will Hopkins</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/tim-tillmanns/9694">Tim Tillmanns</a>&nbsp;are tied for 27th place at 8-over par 148. The senior duo each carded a 5-over par 75 in the first round - including an eagle by Tillmanns on No. 7 - before shaving two strokes off in the afternoon with a 3-over par 73. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-schultz/9693">Cooper Schultz</a>, a native of Andover, Kansas, is tied for 30th with a 36-hole score of 9-over par 149. He, too, eagled No. 7 in the first round and was able to improve in the afternoon 18. Schultz carded a 6-over par 76 in the morning before a 3-over par 73 in the second round. Another Kansas native,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/nicklaus-mason/9689">Nicklaus Mason</a>, carded a 6-over par 76 in the first round with an eagle on No. 7 before shooting a 5-over par 75 in the afternoon. The Shawnee, Kansas, product enters Tuesday's third round tied for 38th at 11-over par 151. Oklahoma, the 10th-ranked team in the nation, holds a 12-shot lead after the first day, as the Sooners are at 6-under par 554 midway through the championship. No. 21 Oklahoma State is in second place at 6-over par 566. The Cowboys have the top individual after day one in No. 72 Jonas Baumgartner at 9-under par 131. He leads Texas Tech's Ludvig Aberg - the second-ranked player in the nation - by two shots. K-State's third round of the 2023 Big 12 Championship begins Tuesday morning with a 9:07 a.m. tee time off No. 10 as the Wildcats are paired with Iowa State. Live results can be followed at Golfstat.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://results.golfstat.com//public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=team&amp;tid=26021" target="_blank">Live Results</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682402288145.jpeg" alt="K-State Golf at Big 12 Championship.jpg" />
 <figcaption>K-State Golf at Big 12 Championship.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan.&nbsp;- The Kansas State men's golf team carded a 31-over par 591 over the first two rounds of the 2023 Big 12 Championship on Monday held at the par-70, 7,025-yard Prairie Dunes Country Club. The Wildcats, ranked 24th in the nation by Golfstat, carded a 17-over par 297 in the morning round before a 14-over par 294 in the afternoon, as K-State is in ninth place midway through the championship. Four Wildcats are within two shots of each other heading into Tuesday's third round, led by junior&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/luke-o-neill/9691">Luke O'Neill</a>. The Connemara, Ireland, native went 1-over par 71 in the morning and was 6-over par 76 in the afternoon. He will begin play on Tuesday in a tie for 23rd place at 7-over par 147. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/will-hopkins/9688">Will Hopkins</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/tim-tillmanns/9694">Tim Tillmanns</a>&nbsp;are tied for 27th place at 8-over par 148. The senior duo each carded a 5-over par 75 in the first round - including an eagle by Tillmanns on No. 7 - before shaving two strokes off in the afternoon with a 3-over par 73. <a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/cooper-schultz/9693">Cooper Schultz</a>, a native of Andover, Kansas, is tied for 30th with a 36-hole score of 9-over par 149. He, too, eagled No. 7 in the first round and was able to improve in the afternoon 18. Schultz carded a 6-over par 76 in the morning before a 3-over par 73 in the second round. Another Kansas native,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/nicklaus-mason/9689">Nicklaus Mason</a>, carded a 6-over par 76 in the first round with an eagle on No. 7 before shooting a 5-over par 75 in the afternoon. The Shawnee, Kansas, product enters Tuesday's third round tied for 38th at 11-over par 151. Oklahoma, the 10th-ranked team in the nation, holds a 12-shot lead after the first day, as the Sooners are at 6-under par 554 midway through the championship. No. 21 Oklahoma State is in second place at 6-over par 566. The Cowboys have the top individual after day one in No. 72 Jonas Baumgartner at 9-under par 131. He leads Texas Tech's Ludvig Aberg - the second-ranked player in the nation - by two shots. K-State's third round of the 2023 Big 12 Championship begins Tuesday morning with a 9:07 a.m. tee time off No. 10 as the Wildcats are paired with Iowa State. Live results can be followed at Golfstat.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://results.golfstat.com//public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=team&amp;tid=26021" target="_blank">Live Results</a>

⛳️ Cats looking for bounce back round at Big 12 Championship

By DAVID BRANDT AP Sports Writer

The NFL never really stops, so the offseason continues with the draft starting Thursday night.

The Carolina Panthers have the No. 1 overall pick and, as usual, a lot of the hype surrounds the quarterbacks. Alabama's Bryce Young, Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Kentucky's Will Levis and Florida's Anthony Richardson are among the coveted prospects.

Here's more to know ahead of the NFL draft:

The draft is a three-day extravaganza in Kansas City, Missouri, starting Thursday night.

The first round begins at 8 p.m. Eastern. The second and third rounds are on Friday starting at 7 p.m. The fourth through seventh rounds are on Saturday starting at 12 p.m.

The draft can be viewed on NFL Network, ABC, ESPN and ESPN Deportes.

Everyone is pretty much asking the same questions about the NFL draft. See how AP's experts on NFL and college football answer them in AP's NFL mock draft.

The Panthers have the No. 1 pick in the draft after making a trade with the Chicago Bears.

After that, the Houston Texans select at No. 2, while the Arizona Cardinals are No. 3. The Indianapolis Colts (No. 4) and Seattle Seahawks (No. 5) round out the top 5.

The Panthers are expected to take a quarterback with the top selection. The candidates include Young, Stroud, Levis and Richardson.

Not every team has a draft pick in the first round. The Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams, Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers will sit the first night out unless they make a trade.

Four of the five teams are out of the first round because of trades. The one exception is the Dolphins. The NFL punished the franchise by taking away its 2023 first-round and 2024 third-round pick after a probe found the team tampered with quarterback Tom Brady and coach Sean Payton.

The most loaded position in this draft might just be tight end. The record for tight ends drafted in the first round is three, most recently done in 2017. There is a chance that gets broken and more tight ends go in the first round than wideouts.

Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, Georgia's Darnell Washington and Oregon State's Luke Musgrave all have their fans and could be among those selected Thursday night.

The draft could also be a semi-renaissance for the running back spot. Texas' Bijan Robinson is one of the most coveted prospects at his position in the past decade. Alabama's Jahmyr Gibbs, Texas A&amp;M's Devon Achane, UCLA's Zach Charbonnet and Tulane's Tyjae Spears are also talented prospects.

AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi and AP College Football Writer Ralph D. Russo contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682363536790.jpeg" alt="Alabama quarterback Bryce Young talks on the field during the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, March 4. The national high school player of the year as a senior in California went on to become the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner as a sophomore at Alabama.&nbsp;Young is in the mix for the first pick in the NFL Draft later this week. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)" />
 <figcaption>Alabama quarterback Bryce Young talks on the field during the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, March 4. The national high school player of the year as a senior in California went on to become the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner as a sophomore at Alabama.&nbsp;Young is in the mix for the first pick in the NFL Draft later this week. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID BRANDT AP Sports WriterThe NFL never really stops, so the offseason continues with the draft starting Thursday night.The Carolina Panthers have the No. 1 overall pick and, as usual, a lot of the hype surrounds the quarterbacks. Alabama's Bryce Young, Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Kentucky's Will Levis and Florida's Anthony Richardson are among the coveted prospects.Here's more to know ahead of the NFL draft:WHEN IS THE NFL DRAFT?The draft is a three-day extravaganza in Kansas City, Missouri, starting Thursday night.The first round begins at 8 p.m. Eastern. The second and third rounds are on Friday starting at 7 p.m. The fourth through seventh rounds are on Saturday starting at 12 p.m.The draft can be viewed on NFL Network, ABC, ESPN and ESPN Deportes.MOCK DRAFTEveryone is pretty much asking the same questions about the NFL draft. See how AP's experts on NFL and college football answer them in AP's NFL mock draft.WHO HAS THE TOP PICKS?The Panthers have the No. 1 pick in the draft after making a trade with the Chicago Bears.After that, the Houston Texans select at No. 2, while the Arizona Cardinals are No. 3. The Indianapolis Colts (No. 4) and Seattle Seahawks (No. 5) round out the top 5.The Panthers are expected to take a quarterback with the top selection. The candidates include Young, Stroud, Levis and Richardson.QUIET THURSDAYNot every team has a draft pick in the first round. The Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams, Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers will sit the first night out unless they make a trade.Four of the five teams are out of the first round because of trades. The one exception is the Dolphins. The NFL punished the franchise by taking away its 2023 first-round and 2024 third-round pick after a probe found the team tampered with quarterback Tom Brady and coach Sean Payton.BIG DRAFT FOR TEs, RBs?The most loaded position in this draft might just be tight end. The record for tight ends drafted in the first round is three, most recently done in 2017. There is a chance that gets broken and more tight ends go in the first round than wideouts.Notre Dame's Michael Mayer, Utah's Dalton Kincaid, Georgia's Darnell Washington and Oregon State's Luke Musgrave all have their fans and could be among those selected Thursday night.The draft could also be a semi-renaissance for the running back spot. Texas' Bijan Robinson is one of the most coveted prospects at his position in the past decade. Alabama's Jahmyr Gibbs, Texas A&amp;M's Devon Achane, UCLA's Zach Charbonnet and Tulane's Tyjae Spears are also talented prospects.AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi and AP College Football Writer Ralph D. Russo contributed to this report.

NFL Draft Guide: How to watch, who will go No. 1

NEW YORK - The NFL announced today it will collaborate with the Emmy-winning show “The Shop UNINTERRUPTED” for a special limited series, featuring top player prospects and personalities in Kansas City for the 2023 NFL Draft. 

Titled “Draft Day in The Shop,” executive producer&nbsp;Maverick Carter and co-creator&nbsp;Paul Rivera will welcome top 2023 NFL Draft prospects&nbsp; Anthony Richardson, Bijan Robinson, Paris Johnson, Jr., and Will Anderson, Jr., into The Shop to have authentic conversations about a range of topics, including pro football dreams, iconic plays, mentorship and life off the field.&nbsp; “As the NFL Draft continues to be a pillar of sports and culture, we’re thrilled to welcome ‘The Shop UNINTERRUPTED’ to the 2023 NFL Draft and showcase this year’s top prospects through intimate, unique conversations in an atmosphere only The Shop can provide,”&nbsp;said Angela Ellis, NFL Media’s vice president of original content and entertainment. NFL Media’s Emmy Award-winning production team –&nbsp;spearheaded by&nbsp;Dallas Hitchcock,&nbsp;head of creative content&nbsp;– leads the NFL’s first special content series with UNINTERRUPTED.&nbsp; This collaboration follows a pivotal past year for The Shop franchise. Last year, The Shop partnered with Amazon Prime Video to introduce TNF in The Shop, an all-new, live presentation of the show during Thursday Night Football. Most recently, season five of The Shop UNINTERRUPTED garnered a nomination from the 44th Annual Sports Emmy Awards.  &nbsp; "We are incredibly excited to collaborate with the NFL as we continue to expand The Shop franchise," said Rivera, co-creator of The Shop and CMO of The SpringHill Company. "The Shop was created to build community and provide a safe space for authentic conversation. With so many eyes on Draft week, we felt it was a perfect opportunity to show up in Kansas City and empower the prospects with a seat in The Shop to tell their 'More Than An Athlete' stories." The&nbsp;“Draft Day in The Shop”&nbsp;content series will air exclusively on NFL+ beginning Thursday at noon ET. Additional content will be available on NFL and UNINTERRUPTED YouTube and social channels throughout Draft weekend (April 27 - 29).  &nbsp; Fans can visit NFL+ for continuous coverage of the 2023 NFL Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NFLNEW YORK - The NFL announced today it will collaborate with the Emmy-winning show “The Shop UNINTERRUPTED” for a special limited series, featuring top player prospects and personalities in Kansas City for the 2023 NFL Draft. Titled “Draft Day in The Shop,” executive producer&nbsp;Maverick Carter and co-creator&nbsp;Paul Rivera will welcome top 2023 NFL Draft prospects&nbsp; Anthony Richardson, Bijan Robinson, Paris Johnson, Jr., and Will Anderson, Jr., into The Shop to have authentic conversations about a range of topics, including pro football dreams, iconic plays, mentorship and life off the field.&nbsp; “As the NFL Draft continues to be a pillar of sports and culture, we’re thrilled to welcome ‘The Shop UNINTERRUPTED’ to the 2023 NFL Draft and showcase this year’s top prospects through intimate, unique conversations in an atmosphere only The Shop can provide,”&nbsp;said Angela Ellis, NFL Media’s vice president of original content and entertainment. NFL Media’s Emmy Award-winning production team –&nbsp;spearheaded by&nbsp;Dallas Hitchcock,&nbsp;head of creative content&nbsp;– leads the NFL’s first special content series with UNINTERRUPTED.&nbsp; This collaboration follows a pivotal past year for The Shop franchise. Last year, The Shop partnered with Amazon Prime Video to introduce TNF in The Shop, an all-new, live presentation of the show during Thursday Night Football. Most recently, season five of The Shop UNINTERRUPTED garnered a nomination from the 44th Annual Sports Emmy Awards.  &nbsp; "We are incredibly excited to collaborate with the NFL as we continue to expand The Shop franchise," said Rivera, co-creator of The Shop and CMO of The SpringHill Company. "The Shop was created to build community and provide a safe space for authentic conversation. With so many eyes on Draft week, we felt it was a perfect opportunity to show up in Kansas City and empower the prospects with a seat in The Shop to tell their 'More Than An Athlete' stories." The&nbsp;“Draft Day in The Shop”&nbsp;content series will air exclusively on NFL+ beginning Thursday at noon ET. Additional content will be available on NFL and UNINTERRUPTED YouTube and social channels throughout Draft weekend (April 27 - 29).  &nbsp; Fans can visit NFL+ for continuous coverage of the 2023 NFL Draft.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NFL, UNINTERRUPTED to collaborate on 'Draft Day in The Shop' series

JUNCTION CITY - Over the weekend, the Junction City High School Tennis team, hosted the Varsity Tennis Invite.

The Blue Jay Tennis team finished in 2nd place at the invitational.

Schools participating in the invitational included: Lawrence Free State, Salina South, Topeka High, Abilene, Manhattan and Junction City.

Blue Jays were lead by Alex Matthews, who finished with a gold medal in the top singles bracket with a 5-0 record.

Carl Baskerville and Nate Rollins paired up to earn a silver medal at the #2 doubles position.&nbsp;

Chris Beers won the bronze medal in the #2 singles, while Alan Leis and David Trammell teamed up in the top doubles position to earn 4th place.

Other Blue Jay tennis participants included Memphis Platt at #1 singles, Tim Nguyen at #2 singles and the doubles team of Ethan Moneypenny and Aidyn Thurn in the top doubles bracket.&nbsp;

The Blue Jays play in the Topeka High Varsity Tennis Invite on Monday, April 24, matches started at 9am at the Kossover Tennis Center.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682349644323.jpeg" alt="JCHS Tennis Invite Medalists, picture from USD 475" />
 <figcaption>JCHS Tennis Invite Medalists, picture from USD 475</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY - Over the weekend, the Junction City High School Tennis team, hosted the Varsity Tennis Invite.The Blue Jay Tennis team finished in 2nd place at the invitational.Schools participating in the invitational included: Lawrence Free State, Salina South, Topeka High, Abilene, Manhattan and Junction City.Blue Jays were lead by Alex Matthews, who finished with a gold medal in the top singles bracket with a 5-0 record.Carl Baskerville and Nate Rollins paired up to earn a silver medal at the #2 doubles position.&nbsp;Chris Beers won the bronze medal in the #2 singles, while Alan Leis and David Trammell teamed up in the top doubles position to earn 4th place.Other Blue Jay tennis participants included Memphis Platt at #1 singles, Tim Nguyen at #2 singles and the doubles team of Ethan Moneypenny and Aidyn Thurn in the top doubles bracket.&nbsp;The Blue Jays play in the Topeka High Varsity Tennis Invite on Monday, April 24, matches started at 9am at the Kossover Tennis Center.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2876.313412586889!2d-95.72657642432995!3d39.02023197169816!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bf02a8d4305c51%3A0xee5dba928f327fc2!2sKossover%20Tennis%20Court!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1682350570795!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>

Blue Jay Tennis Team places 2nd, medal in 3 events

KANSAS CITY&nbsp;— The Kansas City Current earned the team’s first regular-season win with a 2-0 result over the Orlando Pride. This is the Current’s second consecutive win across all competitions, as the team also defeated the Houston Dash in 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup play earlier this week.

Of course, I’m really happy today about the win against Orlando,” said interim head coach Caroline Sjöblom. “We didn’t have that many practices to prepare for this game, but I think that the players followed the game plan today, 100%. So I’m really proud of our players, and of course all the game changers that came in the game as well.”

The Current came out strong in the first half, with several big chances throughout the first 45 minutes. In the 13th minute, defender Hailie Mace charged up the left-hand side and dodged around Pride defender Emily Madril. Her shot forced a diving save from Orlando goalkeeper Carly Nelson, who sent the rebound toward midfielder Cece Kizer. Kizer’s ensuing shot was pushed just out of bounds by the Orlando back line.

Kansas City was knocking on the door in the second half. The action kicked off just two minutes in, when midfielder Debinha raced past the Pride defense to find a perfectly placed ball from defender Kate Del Fava. The Brazilian was tackled at the edge of the box to stop the run.

In the 51st minute, the Current had two in a row. Rookie forward Michelle Cooper muscled past the Orlando defense to rip a shot from the top of the box. Orlando’s goalkeeper was in the right place at the right time to make an easy save. Just seconds later, Debinha intercepted the ball to lay off a quick pass to midfielder Vanessa DiBernardo. She quickly hit a left-footed shot that sailed toward goal but was scooped up by Nelson.

Kansas City did find the back of the net in the 64th minute, when defender Izzy Rodriguez forced high pressure on the Orlando goalkeeper. Nelson attempted to clear the ball out, but defender Hailie Mace intercepted the clearance at the edge of the box. She laid the ball off for Debinha, who charged past two Pride defenders and slid the ball into the far corner of the goal.

Just four minutes later, the Current did it again. It was another run down the left by Mace, who rushed past the Pride back line and sent a cross into the box. Kizer found it at the back post and tapped it in for her second goal of the season.

With two assists, Hailie Mace becomes the first Kansas City Current player to log multiple assists in one regular season match in club history. Goalkeeper Cassie Miller logged her second clean sheet in a row across all competitions, an impressive feat as she faced nine corner kicks from the Orlando Pride. She now has four career clean sheets with Kansas City across all competitions.

The Kansas City Current returns to action next weekend at home, facing NJ/NY Gotham FC on April 30 at 5 p.m. CT. Season tickets, flex plans, and single-match tickets are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascitycurrent.com/" target="_blank">kansascitycurrent.com</a>.

Kansas City CurrentKANSAS CITY&nbsp;— The Kansas City Current earned the team’s first regular-season win with a 2-0 result over the Orlando Pride. This is the Current’s second consecutive win across all competitions, as the team also defeated the Houston Dash in 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup play earlier this week.Of course, I’m really happy today about the win against Orlando,” said interim head coach Caroline Sjöblom. “We didn’t have that many practices to prepare for this game, but I think that the players followed the game plan today, 100%. So I’m really proud of our players, and of course all the game changers that came in the game as well.”The Current came out strong in the first half, with several big chances throughout the first 45 minutes. In the 13th minute, defender Hailie Mace charged up the left-hand side and dodged around Pride defender Emily Madril. Her shot forced a diving save from Orlando goalkeeper Carly Nelson, who sent the rebound toward midfielder Cece Kizer. Kizer’s ensuing shot was pushed just out of bounds by the Orlando back line.Kansas City was knocking on the door in the second half. The action kicked off just two minutes in, when midfielder Debinha raced past the Pride defense to find a perfectly placed ball from defender Kate Del Fava. The Brazilian was tackled at the edge of the box to stop the run.In the 51st minute, the Current had two in a row. Rookie forward Michelle Cooper muscled past the Orlando defense to rip a shot from the top of the box. Orlando’s goalkeeper was in the right place at the right time to make an easy save. Just seconds later, Debinha intercepted the ball to lay off a quick pass to midfielder Vanessa DiBernardo. She quickly hit a left-footed shot that sailed toward goal but was scooped up by Nelson.Kansas City did find the back of the net in the 64th minute, when defender Izzy Rodriguez forced high pressure on the Orlando goalkeeper. Nelson attempted to clear the ball out, but defender Hailie Mace intercepted the clearance at the edge of the box. She laid the ball off for Debinha, who charged past two Pride defenders and slid the ball into the far corner of the goal.Just four minutes later, the Current did it again. It was another run down the left by Mace, who rushed past the Pride back line and sent a cross into the box. Kizer found it at the back post and tapped it in for her second goal of the season.With two assists, Hailie Mace becomes the first Kansas City Current player to log multiple assists in one regular season match in club history. Goalkeeper Cassie Miller logged her second clean sheet in a row across all competitions, an impressive feat as she faced nine corner kicks from the Orlando Pride. She now has four career clean sheets with Kansas City across all competitions.The Kansas City Current returns to action next weekend at home, facing NJ/NY Gotham FC on April 30 at 5 p.m. CT. Season tickets, flex plans, and single-match tickets are available for all home matches at Children’s Mercy Park. For pricing and information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansascitycurrent.com/" target="_blank">kansascitycurrent.com</a>.

KC Current earns 1st regular season home win against Orlando Pride

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports Writer

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Taylor Ward, Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani hit consecutive homers in the sixth inning, and the Los Angeles Angels hung on for a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.

Trout also had two doubles for the Angels, who managed only one hit in the first five innings against Jordan Lyles (0-4) before the heart of their order unloaded on the Kansas City starter during a nine-pitch span.

Ward's drive into the short left-field porch was followed by Trout's fifth homer of the year and Ohtani's 415-foot blast to center for his own fifth homer. Los Angeles hadn't hit back-to-back-to-back homers since June 8, 2019.

Ward scored two runs in the Angels' second victory in five games.

MJ Melendez, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. connected for the Royals, who opened their 10-game trip by losing two of three in Anaheim. Kansas City has lost eight of nine and 11 of 13.

Reid Detmers yielded seven hits while pitching into the sixth for the Angels. Austin Warren (1-0) gave up Witt's homer in the seventh during his second appearance of the season, and Carlos Estévez got his third save with a six-pitch ninth inning.

Lyles yielded four hits over six innings with five strikeouts.

Melendez homered in the first, but Ward scored on Ohtani's flyout later in the inning after advancing on Trout's double.

Pasquantino delivered his fourth homer with one out in the sixth, but Ward tied it again on the first pitch of the Angels' half of the inning. Trout then secured the Angels' first back-to-back homers since April 2 with an 0-2 drive to right, and Ohtani homered to center five pitches later.

Three homers gave the Royals ample opportunity to use an apparently new home run helmet — a silver chapeau resembling a medieval knight's headgear that they placed on the home-run hitter's head upon his return to the dugout.

The Angels are pioneers in this field, trading in last year's home-run cowboy hat this spring for a large samurai helmet suggested by Ohtani.

Freddy Fermín got his first major league hit with a single in the third for Kansas City. The 27-year-old Venezuelan catcher is batting .293 at Triple-A Omaha, and he got a chance in the majors this weekend with Franmil Reyes on the paternity list.

Royals: Melendez left in the fourth inning with lower back tightness. Hunter Dozier replaced him in right field.

Angels: Promising rookie C Logan O'Hoppe will be sidelined for four to six months after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. O'Hoppe was off to an outstanding start after seizing the Halos' starting job behind the plate out of spring training, but he injured himself last week.

Royals: Brad Keller (2-2, 3.00 ERA) takes the mound when Kansas City continues its road trip in Arizona on Monday.

Angels: José Suarez (0-1, 9.26 ERA) has a golden opportunity to get his disappointing season on track when the struggling Oakland Athletics open a four-game series at the Big A on Monday.

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports WriterANAHEIM, Calif. — Taylor Ward, Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani hit consecutive homers in the sixth inning, and the Los Angeles Angels hung on for a 4-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals on Sunday.Trout also had two doubles for the Angels, who managed only one hit in the first five innings against Jordan Lyles (0-4) before the heart of their order unloaded on the Kansas City starter during a nine-pitch span.Ward's drive into the short left-field porch was followed by Trout's fifth homer of the year and Ohtani's 415-foot blast to center for his own fifth homer. Los Angeles hadn't hit back-to-back-to-back homers since June 8, 2019.Ward scored two runs in the Angels' second victory in five games.MJ Melendez, Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. connected for the Royals, who opened their 10-game trip by losing two of three in Anaheim. Kansas City has lost eight of nine and 11 of 13.Reid Detmers yielded seven hits while pitching into the sixth for the Angels. Austin Warren (1-0) gave up Witt's homer in the seventh during his second appearance of the season, and Carlos Estévez got his third save with a six-pitch ninth inning.Lyles yielded four hits over six innings with five strikeouts.Melendez homered in the first, but Ward scored on Ohtani's flyout later in the inning after advancing on Trout's double.Pasquantino delivered his fourth homer with one out in the sixth, but Ward tied it again on the first pitch of the Angels' half of the inning. Trout then secured the Angels' first back-to-back homers since April 2 with an 0-2 drive to right, and Ohtani homered to center five pitches later.TIN CAPThree homers gave the Royals ample opportunity to use an apparently new home run helmet — a silver chapeau resembling a medieval knight's headgear that they placed on the home-run hitter's head upon his return to the dugout.The Angels are pioneers in this field, trading in last year's home-run cowboy hat this spring for a large samurai helmet suggested by Ohtani.FAST FREDDYFreddy Fermín got his first major league hit with a single in the third for Kansas City. The 27-year-old Venezuelan catcher is batting .293 at Triple-A Omaha, and he got a chance in the majors this weekend with Franmil Reyes on the paternity list.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Melendez left in the fourth inning with lower back tightness. Hunter Dozier replaced him in right field.Angels: Promising rookie C Logan O'Hoppe will be sidelined for four to six months after undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. O'Hoppe was off to an outstanding start after seizing the Halos' starting job behind the plate out of spring training, but he injured himself last week.UP NEXTRoyals: Brad Keller (2-2, 3.00 ERA) takes the mound when Kansas City continues its road trip in Arizona on Monday.Angels: José Suarez (0-1, 9.26 ERA) has a golden opportunity to get his disappointing season on track when the struggling Oakland Athletics open a four-game series at the Big A on Monday.

Ward, Trout, Ohtani hit 3 straight HRs, Angels beat KC 4-3

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

Following a brief stumble at the hands of the Omaha Beef last week, the Salina Liberty rebounded in a big way on Saturday, defeating the Southwest Kansas Storm 45-38.

With this win, the Liberty remain in fourth at 5-2, while the Storm fall to 2-4 on the season.

The main attraction of this game was a battle between two quarterbacks debuting for their new teams, and it appears the Liberty have found their missing piece, as Ed Crouch looked every bit as good as advertised in the victory.

The former FCF MVP racked up 179 all-purpose yards under center, tossing five touchdowns through the air and adding one on the ground while surrendering just two interceptions on the day.

On the other side of things, it was a rough day for new Storm signal-caller Josh Hollins, who threw three picks to just one TD, but did add three rushing scores in the loss.

Once again, the Liberty secondary feasted on poor passes, as Deetray Matthews, Trevon Slayton, and Tyrie Allen each recorded an interception on a day that saw Salina break even in their turnover differential.

Salina struck first in this game and never looked back, taking the early 8-0 lead on a connection from Crouch to Anthony Love to open the scoring.

By halftime, the Liberty lead had grown to 22-15, and the offense picked up right where they left off out of the locker room with another Crouch hookup to Love to extend the advantage to 14.

The Storm battled, and actually managed to outscore Salina the rest of the way, but their comeback effort came up short as the Liberty secured the win to get back on track.

With the regular season a little over halfway in the books, the Liberty are in an excellent position to secure a playoff spot, and will have a non-league game at home against the Queen City Insane Asylum this Saturday before resuming league play on May 6th.

Salina will play two of their final three games on the road, with trips to Southwest Kansas and Wyoming bookending a home game with Sioux City before the CIF playoffs get underway.

For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

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>Following a brief stumble at the hands of the Omaha Beef last week, the Salina Liberty rebounded in a big way on Saturday, defeating the Southwest Kansas Storm 45-38.With this win, the Liberty remain in fourth at 5-2, while the Storm fall to 2-4 on the season.The main attraction of this game was a battle between two quarterbacks debuting for their new teams, and it appears the Liberty have found their missing piece, as Ed Crouch looked every bit as good as advertised in the victory.The former FCF MVP racked up 179 all-purpose yards under center, tossing five touchdowns through the air and adding one on the ground while surrendering just two interceptions on the day.On the other side of things, it was a rough day for new Storm signal-caller Josh Hollins, who threw three picks to just one TD, but did add three rushing scores in the loss.Once again, the Liberty secondary feasted on poor passes, as Deetray Matthews, Trevon Slayton, and Tyrie Allen each recorded an interception on a day that saw Salina break even in their turnover differential.Salina struck first in this game and never looked back, taking the early 8-0 lead on a connection from Crouch to Anthony Love to open the scoring.By halftime, the Liberty lead had grown to 22-15, and the offense picked up right where they left off out of the locker room with another Crouch hookup to Love to extend the advantage to 14.The Storm battled, and actually managed to outscore Salina the rest of the way, but their comeback effort came up short as the Liberty secured the win to get back on track.With the regular season a little over halfway in the books, the Liberty are in an excellent position to secure a playoff spot, and will have a non-league game at home against the Queen City Insane Asylum this Saturday before resuming league play on May 6th.Salina will play two of their final three games on the road, with trips to Southwest Kansas and Wyoming bookending a home game with Sioux City before the CIF playoffs get underway.For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

Crouch shines in debut as Liberty quiet Storm 45-38

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Giacomo Vrioni scored two goals a few minutes apart to lead the New England Revolution to a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City on Saturday.

Vrioni first-timed a cross played by Emmanuel Boateng to open the scoring in the 31st minute and made it 2-0 in the 35th minute with a putback of a missed shot by Carles Gil.

Johnny Russell scored for Sporting KC (0-6-3).

The Revolution outshot Sporting KC 16-8, with nine shots on goal to three for Sporting KC.

Djordje Petrovic had two saves for the Revolution. Tim Melia stopped seven shots for Sporting KC.

Sporting played a man down after Andreu Fontàs was shown a red card for denying an obvious run scoring opportunity in the 61st minute.

Both teams next play Saturday. The Revolution host Cincinnati and Sporting KC hosts Montreal.

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Giacomo Vrioni scored two goals a few minutes apart to lead the New England Revolution to a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City on Saturday.Vrioni first-timed a cross played by Emmanuel Boateng to open the scoring in the 31st minute and made it 2-0 in the 35th minute with a putback of a missed shot by Carles Gil.Johnny Russell scored for Sporting KC (0-6-3).The Revolution outshot Sporting KC 16-8, with nine shots on goal to three for Sporting KC.Djordje Petrovic had two saves for the Revolution. Tim Melia stopped seven shots for Sporting KC.Sporting played a man down after Andreu Fontàs was shown a red card for denying an obvious run scoring opportunity in the 61st minute.Both teams next play Saturday. The Revolution host Cincinnati and Sporting KC hosts Montreal.The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Vrioni scores 2 goals as Revolution beats Sporting KC 2-1

By JOE REEDY AP Sports Writer

ANAHEIM, Calif — MJ Melendez was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded as the Kansas City Royals scored five times in the ninth inning to rally for an 11-8 victory over the Los Angeles Angels that snapped a six-game losing streak Saturday night.

Hunter Dozier had three hits and three RBIs, including a two-run single in the ninth that provided some insurance for the Royals. Matt Duffy also had three hits.

The Angels lost despite hitting four home runs for the second time this season. Matt Thaiss gave the Halos an 8-6 lead in the eighth inning with a two-run shot, but José Quijada (0-1) was unable to hold it.

Hunter Renfroe went deep twice and Mike Trout homered for the first time in two weeks. It is the sixth time since 2020 the Angels have lost when hitting at least four homers.

Quijada hit two Royals batters with pitches in the ninth. Nicky Lopez reached to lead off the inning after getting plunked and then scored when Kyle Isbel doubled off the right-center wall. Isbel advanced to third on a throwing error and scored to tie it at 8 on Edward Olivares' one-out base hit.

Quijada loaded the bases with walks to Salvador Perez and Duffy before he hit Melendez with an 0-2 fastball to bring Olivares home with the go-ahead run.

Scott Barlow retired the Angels in order in the ninth for his second save.

Renfroe led off the eighth with a double. Gio Urshela grounded out and Brandon Drury struck out looking before Thaiss connected on a first-pitch slider from Jose Cuas (1-0) to give the Halos an 8-6 advantage.

Renfroe had a pair of solo shots to left field for the 18th multi-homer game of his career. His homer in the fourth inning got the Angels to 3-2. It barely stayed fair and made it over the short wall in the left-field corner as Kansas City outfielder Nate Eaton was unable to get to it in time.

Renfroe's team-leading sixth homer leading off the sixth was a no-doubter.

Trout, out of Friday's lineup after the Angels' cross-country trip, had a two-run shot in the fifth for his fourth of the season.

Kansas City appeared to get out of the sixth with a 6-5 lead after Zach Neto flied out, but plate umpire Mark Ripperger called a balk before the pitch, keeping the inning alive.

Drury advanced to second on the balk and scored the tying run two pitches later when Neto singled to right field.

Royals: LHP Daniel Lynch (rotator cuff strain) went two innings during an extended spring training outing.

Angels: OF Taylor Ward, who has only two hits in his last 26 at-bats, got the night off.

The teams wrap up their weekend series Sunday. Kansas City RHP Jordan Lyles (0-3, 4.62 ERA), who has a 4-4 career mark against the Angels, takes on Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.50). The left-hander allowed five earned runs in his only previous start against the Royals last season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682223582776.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals second baseman Matt Duffy (15) celebrates in the dugout after scoring off of a triple by MJ Melendez during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, Calif., Saturday.&nbsp;(AP Photo/Ashley Landis)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals second baseman Matt Duffy (15) celebrates in the dugout after scoring off of a triple by MJ Melendez during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, Calif., Saturday.&nbsp;(AP Photo/Ashley Landis)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE REEDY AP Sports WriterANAHEIM, Calif — MJ Melendez was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded as the Kansas City Royals scored five times in the ninth inning to rally for an 11-8 victory over the Los Angeles Angels that snapped a six-game losing streak Saturday night.Hunter Dozier had three hits and three RBIs, including a two-run single in the ninth that provided some insurance for the Royals. Matt Duffy also had three hits.The Angels lost despite hitting four home runs for the second time this season. Matt Thaiss gave the Halos an 8-6 lead in the eighth inning with a two-run shot, but José Quijada (0-1) was unable to hold it.Hunter Renfroe went deep twice and Mike Trout homered for the first time in two weeks. It is the sixth time since 2020 the Angels have lost when hitting at least four homers.Quijada hit two Royals batters with pitches in the ninth. Nicky Lopez reached to lead off the inning after getting plunked and then scored when Kyle Isbel doubled off the right-center wall. Isbel advanced to third on a throwing error and scored to tie it at 8 on Edward Olivares' one-out base hit.Quijada loaded the bases with walks to Salvador Perez and Duffy before he hit Melendez with an 0-2 fastball to bring Olivares home with the go-ahead run.Scott Barlow retired the Angels in order in the ninth for his second save.Renfroe led off the eighth with a double. Gio Urshela grounded out and Brandon Drury struck out looking before Thaiss connected on a first-pitch slider from Jose Cuas (1-0) to give the Halos an 8-6 advantage.ALL FOR NAUGHTRenfroe had a pair of solo shots to left field for the 18th multi-homer game of his career. His homer in the fourth inning got the Angels to 3-2. It barely stayed fair and made it over the short wall in the left-field corner as Kansas City outfielder Nate Eaton was unable to get to it in time.Renfroe's team-leading sixth homer leading off the sixth was a no-doubter.Trout, out of Friday's lineup after the Angels' cross-country trip, had a two-run shot in the fifth for his fourth of the season.NOT SO FASTKansas City appeared to get out of the sixth with a 6-5 lead after Zach Neto flied out, but plate umpire Mark Ripperger called a balk before the pitch, keeping the inning alive.Drury advanced to second on the balk and scored the tying run two pitches later when Neto singled to right field.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: LHP Daniel Lynch (rotator cuff strain) went two innings during an extended spring training outing.Angels: OF Taylor Ward, who has only two hits in his last 26 at-bats, got the night off.UP NEXTThe teams wrap up their weekend series Sunday. Kansas City RHP Jordan Lyles (0-3, 4.62 ERA), who has a 4-4 career mark against the Angels, takes on Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.50). The left-hander allowed five earned runs in his only previous start against the Royals last season.

Royals rally with 5 in 9th for 11-8 victory over Angels

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Shohei Ohtani struck out the side on 12 pitches in the first inning Friday night, throwing sweepers that broke horizontally like Frisbees and punctuating them with a 98.7-mph fastball. Angels manager Phil Nevin said he had never seen an inning more dominant during his nearly three decades in the big leagues.

Ohtani remained far too much for the Kansas City Royals to handle in his latest outstanding start.

Ohtani struck out a season-high 11 and allowed two hits over seven innings, and fill-in catcher Chad Wallach hit a two-run homer in Los Angeles' 2-0 victory.

Ohtani (3-0) returned to the mound just four days after a lengthy rain delay limited him to two innings in Boston, and the two-way superstar didn't miss a beat in his spectacular season on the mound. After fanning the side in that incredible first, Ohtani also struck out his final six batters — and in between, Kansas City managed two singles and two walks while getting just one runner to second base.

"From a hitter's standpoint, I would have no idea what to prepare for," Nevin said. "Because he's got 98 in there, but he doesn't usually throw the fastball a lot. The sweeper is kind of unhittable when he's throwing it for strikes. I'm glad I don't have to face him. I'm glad he's on my side."

Ohtani has given up two runs and eight hits over 28 innings with 38 strikeouts while lowering his ERA to 0.64 — the lowest in franchise history through a pitcher's first five starts. Ohtani also extended his franchise record with his 12th consecutive start allowing two runs or fewer.

Wallach stepped up impressively in the absence of injured rookie catcher Logan O'Hoppe, helping Ohtani behind the plate and also delivering the decisive homer in his first major league at-bat of the season.

"I love catching him," Wallach said. "Probably the best stuff I've ever seen, so it's fun for me to be back there and just catch pitches. ... (The first inning) was the best I've ever seen. He was throwing it exactly where he wanted to, and just all the pitches were nasty."

After issuing a leadoff walk in the sixth, Ohtani fanned six in a row to secure his major league-best 12th double-digit strikeout game since the start of 2022.

Carlos Estévez and Jose Quijada completed a three-hit shutout, with Quijada giving up a one-out single to Bobby Witt Jr. before finishing his fourth save in front of Angel Stadium's third sellout crowd of the year.

Kansas City opened a 10-game trip with its seventh consecutive loss and its 10th in 11 games.

"He's special pretty much any night he takes the field," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Ohtani. "He came out, struck out the side in the first, and then I think our at-bats got better over the next four innings or so, and then he introduced that curveball late. We hadn't seen that, and it kept us off balance. He's got a huge arsenal. Overall, the at-bats were pretty good, considering we were facing him. But it wasn't good enough. … (Ohtani) seems like somebody who can do whatever he sets out to do."

Wallach, who joined the Angels earlier Friday from Triple-A Salt Lake, drove a changeup from Ryan Yarbrough (0-2) 424 feet in the third inning for just his second big league homer since 2020.

Kansas City pitched a bullpen game in the rotation slot of injured left-hander Kris Bubic, with opener Taylor Clarke throwing two scoreless innings.

Mike Trout got the night off for the Angels in their return from a disappointing seven-game East Coast trip.

Angels rookie shortstop Zach Neto was hit by a pitch in each of his first two at-bats. He already has been hit by five pitches in his first seven games in the majors.

Royals: Bubic will have Tommy John surgery next week. He made three starts this season and showed improved form before his elbow ligament woes were diagnosed.

Angels: O'Hoppe went on the 10-day injured list with a shoulder problem. The promising rookie hurt himself on swings Monday and again Thursday, but the team hasn't revealed much about the nature of his injury. Wallach and Matt Thaiss are the Angels' two remaining catchers, with Max Stassi yet to make his season debut.

Tyler Anderson (1-0, 6.75 ERA) makes the fourth start of his Angels career in search of his first victory over the Royals, who counter with former Angels right-hander Zack Greinke (0-3. 4.03).

By GREG BEACHAM AP Sports WriterANAHEIM, Calif. — Shohei Ohtani struck out the side on 12 pitches in the first inning Friday night, throwing sweepers that broke horizontally like Frisbees and punctuating them with a 98.7-mph fastball. Angels manager Phil Nevin said he had never seen an inning more dominant during his nearly three decades in the big leagues.Ohtani remained far too much for the Kansas City Royals to handle in his latest outstanding start.Ohtani struck out a season-high 11 and allowed two hits over seven innings, and fill-in catcher Chad Wallach hit a two-run homer in Los Angeles' 2-0 victory.Ohtani (3-0) returned to the mound just four days after a lengthy rain delay limited him to two innings in Boston, and the two-way superstar didn't miss a beat in his spectacular season on the mound. After fanning the side in that incredible first, Ohtani also struck out his final six batters — and in between, Kansas City managed two singles and two walks while getting just one runner to second base."From a hitter's standpoint, I would have no idea what to prepare for," Nevin said. "Because he's got 98 in there, but he doesn't usually throw the fastball a lot. The sweeper is kind of unhittable when he's throwing it for strikes. I'm glad I don't have to face him. I'm glad he's on my side."Ohtani has given up two runs and eight hits over 28 innings with 38 strikeouts while lowering his ERA to 0.64 — the lowest in franchise history through a pitcher's first five starts. Ohtani also extended his franchise record with his 12th consecutive start allowing two runs or fewer.Wallach stepped up impressively in the absence of injured rookie catcher Logan O'Hoppe, helping Ohtani behind the plate and also delivering the decisive homer in his first major league at-bat of the season."I love catching him," Wallach said. "Probably the best stuff I've ever seen, so it's fun for me to be back there and just catch pitches. ... (The first inning) was the best I've ever seen. He was throwing it exactly where he wanted to, and just all the pitches were nasty."After issuing a leadoff walk in the sixth, Ohtani fanned six in a row to secure his major league-best 12th double-digit strikeout game since the start of 2022.Carlos Estévez and Jose Quijada completed a three-hit shutout, with Quijada giving up a one-out single to Bobby Witt Jr. before finishing his fourth save in front of Angel Stadium's third sellout crowd of the year.Kansas City opened a 10-game trip with its seventh consecutive loss and its 10th in 11 games."He's special pretty much any night he takes the field," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said of Ohtani. "He came out, struck out the side in the first, and then I think our at-bats got better over the next four innings or so, and then he introduced that curveball late. We hadn't seen that, and it kept us off balance. He's got a huge arsenal. Overall, the at-bats were pretty good, considering we were facing him. But it wasn't good enough. … (Ohtani) seems like somebody who can do whatever he sets out to do."Wallach, who joined the Angels earlier Friday from Triple-A Salt Lake, drove a changeup from Ryan Yarbrough (0-2) 424 feet in the third inning for just his second big league homer since 2020.Kansas City pitched a bullpen game in the rotation slot of injured left-hander Kris Bubic, with opener Taylor Clarke throwing two scoreless innings.Mike Trout got the night off for the Angels in their return from a disappointing seven-game East Coast trip.KERPLUNKAngels rookie shortstop Zach Neto was hit by a pitch in each of his first two at-bats. He already has been hit by five pitches in his first seven games in the majors.TRAINER'S ROOMRoyals: Bubic will have Tommy John surgery next week. He made three starts this season and showed improved form before his elbow ligament woes were diagnosed.Angels: O'Hoppe went on the 10-day injured list with a shoulder problem. The promising rookie hurt himself on swings Monday and again Thursday, but the team hasn't revealed much about the nature of his injury. Wallach and Matt Thaiss are the Angels' two remaining catchers, with Max Stassi yet to make his season debut.UP NEXTTyler Anderson (1-0, 6.75 ERA) makes the fourth start of his Angels career in search of his first victory over the Royals, who counter with former Angels right-hander Zack Greinke (0-3. 4.03).

Shohei Ohtani strikes out 11; Angels beat Royals 2-0

After a brief stumble last week at the hands of the Omaha Beef, the Salina Liberty will look to get back in the win column this Saturday when they play host to the Southwest Kansas Storm.

The Liberty will enter this contest in 4th place in the CIF standings at 4-2 while the Storm continue to battle in 6th at 2-3.

Salina will return to Tony’s Pizza Events Center with an ace up it’s sleeve this week, following the signing of new quarterback Ed Crouch, who brings a wealth of indoor experience in addition to a championship-winning pedigree.

Crouch was named MVP of the Fan Controlled Football League in 2021 after leading his Wild Aces to an FCF championship, defeating the Glacier Boyz 46-40.

The dual-threat finished that season completing 39 of his 69 passes for 673 yards, 13 touchdowns, and only five picks, racking up an additional 242 yards and 10 TDs on the ground all in just seven games.

Crouch also brings CIF experience as a former signal-caller for the Wichita Force, which only improved the confidence in the Liberty staff to bring the elite talent on board.

“I’m very excited to bring him in,” Liberty head coach Heron O’Neal said. “I saw firsthand what that young man was capable of in Wichita. He’s a dual-threat quarterback with incredible accuracy and the mindset of a competitor. Getting to work with a guy like this is going to be a lot of fun and we believe he’s the missing piece to our offense.”

The first test for Crouch will come in the form of a Southwest Kansas team that ranks third in the league in total defense, and fourth in scoring defense, and one that will unveil a new QB of its own in Josh Hollins.

“They play good defense and they can keep the pedal to the metal offensively,” O’Neal said. “They added a new quarterback from Wyoming and revamped their offensive line to add to a strong core of skill guys. Defensively they’ve always been strong but now they have a weapon at quarterback to really open up their offense.”

In order to get things back on track, Salina will need to ensure that they win the battle in the trenches this week, a task that will be entrusted to several new recruits making their Liberty debuts on Saturday.

“We need to control the line of scrimmage,” O’Neal said. “That’s something we didn’t do in that Omaha game and we didn't really do it against Billings either which led us to bring some guys in on that line.”

Kickoff between the Liberty and Storm is set for 6:35 pm at Tony’s Pizza Events Center, and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.

For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long, stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

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>After a brief stumble last week at the hands of the Omaha Beef, the Salina Liberty will look to get back in the win column this Saturday when they play host to the Southwest Kansas Storm.The Liberty will enter this contest in 4th place in the CIF standings at 4-2 while the Storm continue to battle in 6th at 2-3.Salina will return to Tony’s Pizza Events Center with an ace up it’s sleeve this week, following the signing of new quarterback Ed Crouch, who brings a wealth of indoor experience in addition to a championship-winning pedigree.Crouch was named MVP of the Fan Controlled Football League in 2021 after leading his Wild Aces to an FCF championship, defeating the Glacier Boyz 46-40.The dual-threat finished that season completing 39 of his 69 passes for 673 yards, 13 touchdowns, and only five picks, racking up an additional 242 yards and 10 TDs on the ground all in just seven games.Crouch also brings CIF experience as a former signal-caller for the Wichita Force, which only improved the confidence in the Liberty staff to bring the elite talent on board.“I’m very excited to bring him in,” Liberty head coach Heron O’Neal said. “I saw firsthand what that young man was capable of in Wichita. He’s a dual-threat quarterback with incredible accuracy and the mindset of a competitor. Getting to work with a guy like this is going to be a lot of fun and we believe he’s the missing piece to our offense.”The first test for Crouch will come in the form of a Southwest Kansas team that ranks third in the league in total defense, and fourth in scoring defense, and one that will unveil a new QB of its own in Josh Hollins.“They play good defense and they can keep the pedal to the metal offensively,” O’Neal said. “They added a new quarterback from Wyoming and revamped their offensive line to add to a strong core of skill guys. Defensively they’ve always been strong but now they have a weapon at quarterback to really open up their offense.”In order to get things back on track, Salina will need to ensure that they win the battle in the trenches this week, a task that will be entrusted to several new recruits making their Liberty debuts on Saturday.“We need to control the line of scrimmage,” O’Neal said. “That’s something we didn’t do in that Omaha game and we didn't really do it against Billings either which led us to bring some guys in on that line.”Kickoff between the Liberty and Storm is set for 6:35 pm at Tony’s Pizza Events Center, and as always the game can be heard on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM) courtesy of Eagle Radio.For continuing coverage of Liberty football all season long, stay tuned to the Salina, JC, and Little Apple Posts.

Liberty excited to unveil new weapons in matchup with Storm

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Kansas City Royals left-hander Kris Bubic will have Tommy John surgery next week, the team announced Friday.

Bubic experienced forearm tightness last weekend during his start against Atlanta, and further examination revealed he needed major surgery. Dr. Neal ElAttrache will perform the procedure in Los Angeles.

Bubic went 0-2 with a 3.94 ERA in three starts for the Royals this season, his fourth in the major leagues. The Bay Area native and Stanford product went 3-13 last year in his first full season in Kansas City's starting rotation, and he has one victory in his last 15 starts combined.

But Bubic made major changes to his approach in the offseason and entered this year with increased velocity and a new slider. He had 13 strikeouts and just one walk in his first two starts this season before his final start on a cold, rainy day in Kansas City.

The Royals used right-handed reliever Taylor Clarke as an opener Friday night to fill Bubic's spot in the rotation when they opened a weekend road series against the Los Angeles Angels. Kansas City has lost six straight and nine of 10.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Kansas City Royals left-hander Kris Bubic will have Tommy John surgery next week, the team announced Friday.Bubic experienced forearm tightness last weekend during his start against Atlanta, and further examination revealed he needed major surgery. Dr. Neal ElAttrache will perform the procedure in Los Angeles.Bubic went 0-2 with a 3.94 ERA in three starts for the Royals this season, his fourth in the major leagues. The Bay Area native and Stanford product went 3-13 last year in his first full season in Kansas City's starting rotation, and he has one victory in his last 15 starts combined.But Bubic made major changes to his approach in the offseason and entered this year with increased velocity and a new slider. He had 13 strikeouts and just one walk in his first two starts this season before his final start on a cold, rainy day in Kansas City.The Royals used right-handed reliever Taylor Clarke as an opener Friday night to fill Bubic's spot in the rotation when they opened a weekend road series against the Los Angeles Angels. Kansas City has lost six straight and nine of 10.