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

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

With wins of 4-3 and 12-2 over Ellsworth on Tuesday, the Southeast of Saline baseball team is right back on top, defending their title as NCAA league champions for a sixth straight season.

In addition to locking up at least a share of this year’s league crown, these wins move the Trojans to 13-5 overall and allow them to finish at 9-1 in league play, extending their win streak to six in the process.

With a little under a week of baseball left to be played, Sacred Heart, who Southeast split with earlier this season, is the only team capable of evening out with the Trojans, but will need to sweep 5-3 Beloit in order to deny SES the outright title.

As for the Trojans, they took care of business in fine fashion, winning a nailbiter in the opener before breezing by the Bearcats to secure the sweep in the nightcap.

The hero of game one’s pitchers duel was sophomore sensation Cole Gilpin, who pitched yet another gem, tossing a complete game in which he allowed just six hits and two walks, fanning six more in a 4-3 victory.

The Trojans gave Gilpin just enough run support in a game that saw timely RBI hits from Trever Keller, Grady Gebhardt, and Jase VanAmburg.

All of those hits came late, as Ellsworth held a 1-0 lead until the bottom of the sixth, but with their backs to the wall, the Trojans struck back with three of their own to take their first lead of the game.

The Bearcats mustered up two runs in response to even the score going into the home half of the seventh, but the SES had other ideas, wasting no time walking it off to take game one in dramatic fashion.

In game two, Southeast was called upon to come back again as Ellsworth took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the second, but a two-run home half allowed the Trojans to tie things up before blowing it open with a six-run third and ending it early with a four-run sixth.

This time around, it was Luke Gebhardt who joined VanAmburg atop the stat sheet, with that duo combining for two big hits that brought seven runs in to score.

On the bump, the Trojans got a great combined effort from Jake Gebhardt, Killian Vaughan, and Trever Keller, who tossed six total innings of four-hit ball, striking out five in the process.

Southeast will be back in action one final time this Thursday when they host the Russell Broncos for their regular season finale.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="Coverage of SES baseball is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES baseball is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>With wins of 4-3 and 12-2 over Ellsworth on Tuesday, the Southeast of Saline baseball team is right back on top, defending their title as NCAA league champions for a sixth straight season.In addition to locking up at least a share of this year’s league crown, these wins move the Trojans to 13-5 overall and allow them to finish at 9-1 in league play, extending their win streak to six in the process.With a little under a week of baseball left to be played, Sacred Heart, who Southeast split with earlier this season, is the only team capable of evening out with the Trojans, but will need to sweep 5-3 Beloit in order to deny SES the outright title.As for the Trojans, they took care of business in fine fashion, winning a nailbiter in the opener before breezing by the Bearcats to secure the sweep in the nightcap.The hero of game one’s pitchers duel was sophomore sensation Cole Gilpin, who pitched yet another gem, tossing a complete game in which he allowed just six hits and two walks, fanning six more in a 4-3 victory.The Trojans gave Gilpin just enough run support in a game that saw timely RBI hits from Trever Keller, Grady Gebhardt, and Jase VanAmburg.All of those hits came late, as Ellsworth held a 1-0 lead until the bottom of the sixth, but with their backs to the wall, the Trojans struck back with three of their own to take their first lead of the game.The Bearcats mustered up two runs in response to even the score going into the home half of the seventh, but the SES had other ideas, wasting no time walking it off to take game one in dramatic fashion.In game two, Southeast was called upon to come back again as Ellsworth took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the second, but a two-run home half allowed the Trojans to tie things up before blowing it open with a six-run third and ending it early with a four-run sixth.This time around, it was Luke Gebhardt who joined VanAmburg atop the stat sheet, with that duo combining for two big hits that brought seven runs in to score.On the bump, the Trojans got a great combined effort from Jake Gebhardt, Killian Vaughan, and Trever Keller, who tossed six total innings of four-hit ball, striking out five in the process.Southeast will be back in action one final time this Thursday when they host the Russell Broncos for their regular season finale.Photo credit: Kyler Boley

Trojans take two from Ellsworth to secure sixth-straight league title

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor

With their fourth league doubleheader sweep of the season, the Southeast of Saline softball team can officially cross the first order of business off of their list, as the Lady Trojans have claimed at the very least, a share of this year’s NCAA title.

Thanks to run-rule-shortened victories of 16-1 and 11-1, the Lady Trojans now sit at 16-2 overall, and 9-1 in league play, with only Beloit, a team SES split with earlier this season, capable of evening their record.

The Orange Trojans have one final set with 2-4 Republic County on Friday, with a sweep ensuring them the title of co-league champions, and anything less ensuring that Southeast stands alone at the top.

Once again, SES looked untouchable on Tuesday, allowing just six hits across their doubleheader to extend their win streak to five.

Southeast started strong, scoring four runs in the first, and ten in the second before tacking on a singular score in the third and fourth to cruise to a 16-1 win&nbsp;

It was another dominant effort in the circle for Bryna Baird, who allowed just one run on one hit while striking out six.

As for the Lady Trojan lineup, most of their damage came from the middle of their order, as the three through eight spots accounted for nine hits, and all 12 runs driven in on the day.

Game two was more of a contest early as Southeast plated just two in the first, and one in the second and third before exploding for a seven-run fourth to put this game to bed.

Once again, Ellsworth mustered a single run, this time in the fifth, but it was far too little far too late as the Lady Trojans completed the sweep in an 11-1 effort.

At the dish, Chase Gilpin, Bryna Baird, and Lexi Jacobson all recorded multi-RBI games in the nightcap, with the third member of that trio helping her own cause in the circle as well.

Jacobson tossed five innings of one-run ball, allowing just five hits, refusing to issue a single walk, and recording five strikeouts.

The Lady Trojans will return to Gypsum for their regular season finale this Thursday when they host a former league foe in Russell.

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="Coverage of SES softball is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES softball is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>With their fourth league doubleheader sweep of the season, the Southeast of Saline softball team can officially cross the first order of business off of their list, as the Lady Trojans have claimed at the very least, a share of this year’s NCAA title.Thanks to run-rule-shortened victories of 16-1 and 11-1, the Lady Trojans now sit at 16-2 overall, and 9-1 in league play, with only Beloit, a team SES split with earlier this season, capable of evening their record.The Orange Trojans have one final set with 2-4 Republic County on Friday, with a sweep ensuring them the title of co-league champions, and anything less ensuring that Southeast stands alone at the top.Once again, SES looked untouchable on Tuesday, allowing just six hits across their doubleheader to extend their win streak to five.Southeast started strong, scoring four runs in the first, and ten in the second before tacking on a singular score in the third and fourth to cruise to a 16-1 win&nbsp;It was another dominant effort in the circle for Bryna Baird, who allowed just one run on one hit while striking out six.As for the Lady Trojan lineup, most of their damage came from the middle of their order, as the three through eight spots accounted for nine hits, and all 12 runs driven in on the day.Game two was more of a contest early as Southeast plated just two in the first, and one in the second and third before exploding for a seven-run fourth to put this game to bed.Once again, Ellsworth mustered a single run, this time in the fifth, but it was far too little far too late as the Lady Trojans completed the sweep in an 11-1 effort.At the dish, Chase Gilpin, Bryna Baird, and Lexi Jacobson all recorded multi-RBI games in the nightcap, with the third member of that trio helping her own cause in the circle as well.Jacobson tossed five innings of one-run ball, allowing just five hits, refusing to issue a single walk, and recording five strikeouts.The Lady Trojans will return to Gypsum for their regular season finale this Thursday when they host a former league foe in Russell.

Southeast softball bashes Bearcats to lock up league title

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.

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.

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.

Quarterbacks come off board at record rate in NFL draft

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is embarking on a fundraising campaign to raise $25 million for a new building to house its education center and what has become one of the world's unique collections of baseball memorabilia.

Museum president Bob Kendrick said the "Pitch for the Future" campaign is designed to lead to a new 30,000-square foot facility that would be adjacent to the Buck O'Neil Education and Research Center, which is named for the Negro Leagues great who helped to lead the fundraising effort to build the initial museum.

"Our growth from a one-room office to becoming America's National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum has been an amazing journey," said Kendrick, who also announced that Bank of America had already donated $1 million to the project.

"Now," Kendrick said, "we're building an organization that will continue to preserve and celebrate the triumphant story of the Negro Leagues but also fortify our position as one of the nation's most important civil rights and social justice institutions."

Long before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, Black players were largely relegated to disparate leagues spread across the U.S., often embarking on long barnstorming tours. But the preeminent organization was the Negro National League, which was founded at the Paseo YMCA in the historic 18th &amp; Vine section of Kansas City, Missouri.

The league was initially composed of eight clubs, including the Kansas City Monarchs of O'Neil, and featured some of the great players of any era — Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson and Cool Papa Bell — many of whom never got to play in the big leagues.

Robinson also played for the Monarchs before the Dodgers signed him in 1945 and baseball's integration began. Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Ernie Banks and many others also got their starts in the Negro Leagues. But over time, as more Black players signed major league contracts, the era of the Negro Leagues slowly came to an end.

The museum is designed to keep that history alive. It features lockers set up for some of the game's best players, a "Field of Legends" where there are nearly life-sized bronze statues of players on the field, and a collection of memorabilia that includes nearly 200 autographed baseballs donated by Geddy Lee of the Canadian band Rush.

"We share NLBM's mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of African American baseball and its impact on the social advancement of America," Matt Linski, the president of Bank of America Kansas City, said in announcing its donation.

"Our commitment recognizes the importance — culturally and economically — of the 18th &amp; Vine District to Kansas City and we hope it will be an example for other funders to follow," Linski said. "Additionally, this grant is paramount to ensuring greater understanding and better appreciation of the many contributions African Americans have made and continue to make, including Jackie Robinson breaking the major-league color barrier."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683136587086.jpeg" alt="Bronze statues of Negro League greats including pitcher Satchel Paige, front, play their positions on the Field of Legends, which is the centerpiece of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 27, 2005. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is embarking on a fundraising campaign to raise $25 million for a new building in Kansas City, Missouri, to house its education center and what has become one of the world's unique collections of baseball memorabilia. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, file)" />
 <figcaption>Bronze statues of Negro League greats including pitcher Satchel Paige, front, play their positions on the Field of Legends, which is the centerpiece of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 27, 2005. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is embarking on a fundraising campaign to raise $25 million for a new building in Kansas City, Missouri, to house its education center and what has become one of the world's unique collections of baseball memorabilia. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is embarking on a fundraising campaign to raise $25 million for a new building to house its education center and what has become one of the world's unique collections of baseball memorabilia.Museum president Bob Kendrick said the "Pitch for the Future" campaign is designed to lead to a new 30,000-square foot facility that would be adjacent to the Buck O'Neil Education and Research Center, which is named for the Negro Leagues great who helped to lead the fundraising effort to build the initial museum."Our growth from a one-room office to becoming America's National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum has been an amazing journey," said Kendrick, who also announced that Bank of America had already donated $1 million to the project."Now," Kendrick said, "we're building an organization that will continue to preserve and celebrate the triumphant story of the Negro Leagues but also fortify our position as one of the nation's most important civil rights and social justice institutions."Long before Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, Black players were largely relegated to disparate leagues spread across the U.S., often embarking on long barnstorming tours. But the preeminent organization was the Negro National League, which was founded at the Paseo YMCA in the historic 18th &amp; Vine section of Kansas City, Missouri.The league was initially composed of eight clubs, including the Kansas City Monarchs of O'Neil, and featured some of the great players of any era — Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson and Cool Papa Bell — many of whom never got to play in the big leagues.Robinson also played for the Monarchs before the Dodgers signed him in 1945 and baseball's integration began. Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Ernie Banks and many others also got their starts in the Negro Leagues. But over time, as more Black players signed major league contracts, the era of the Negro Leagues slowly came to an end.The museum is designed to keep that history alive. It features lockers set up for some of the game's best players, a "Field of Legends" where there are nearly life-sized bronze statues of players on the field, and a collection of memorabilia that includes nearly 200 autographed baseballs donated by Geddy Lee of the Canadian band Rush."We share NLBM's mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of African American baseball and its impact on the social advancement of America," Matt Linski, the president of Bank of America Kansas City, said in announcing its donation."Our commitment recognizes the importance — culturally and economically — of the 18th &amp; Vine District to Kansas City and we hope it will be an example for other funders to follow," Linski said. "Additionally, this grant is paramount to ensuring greater understanding and better appreciation of the many contributions African Americans have made and continue to make, including Jackie Robinson breaking the major-league color barrier."

Negro Leagues Museum starts drive for new $25M facility

After tying for the top spot at this year's Hesston Invitational on Monday, the Southeast of Saline Golf team collected their second tournament win in as many days, this time, standing head and shoulders above the rest at this year's Marion Invite.

With a team score of just 319, the Trojans finished a whopping 35 strokes clear of their next closes competition in Hutch Trinity, adding yet another dominant win to their resume.

Individually, Southeast accounted for four of the top six, led by Dylan Esch, who would go on to win individually, carding a 75 on the day.

Here then is a look at the team and individual results from this year's invite.

Team Results 1. Southeast of Saline- 319 2. Hutch Trinity- 354 3. Berean Academy- 359 4. Goessel- 421 5. Whitewater-Remington- 437 6. Herington- 439 7. Marion- 467 8. Wichita Classical- 495 9. Cottonwood Falls- 519

SES Individual Results 1. Dylan Esch- 75 3.&nbsp;Joel Huffaker- 79 5. Kayson Lilley- 82 6. Adam Thiel- 83 T17. Miguel Ortega- 99 24. Kirby Davis- 107

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="Coverage of SES golf is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES golf is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>After tying for the top spot at this year's Hesston Invitational on Monday, the Southeast of Saline Golf team collected their second tournament win in as many days, this time, standing head and shoulders above the rest at this year's Marion Invite.With a team score of just 319, the Trojans finished a whopping 35 strokes clear of their next closes competition in Hutch Trinity, adding yet another dominant win to their resume.Individually, Southeast accounted for four of the top six, led by Dylan Esch, who would go on to win individually, carding a 75 on the day.Here then is a look at the team and individual results from this year's invite.Team Results 1. Southeast of Saline- 319 2. Hutch Trinity- 354 3. Berean Academy- 359 4. Goessel- 421 5. Whitewater-Remington- 437 6. Herington- 439 7. Marion- 467 8. Wichita Classical- 495 9. Cottonwood Falls- 519SES Individual Results 1. Dylan Esch- 75 3.&nbsp;Joel Huffaker- 79 5. Kayson Lilley- 82 6. Adam Thiel- 83 T17. Miguel Ortega- 99 24. Kirby Davis- 107

Trojan golf makes it back-to-back, winning Marion Invite

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Tyler Wells was just hoping to hang around long enough to save the Baltimore bullpen, and maybe give the Orioles' hot-hitting lineup a chance to get them back in the game against the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night.

"Whenever I say there's no quit in this team," Wells said later, "there's no quit in this offense."

That was evident by the fourth inning, when Ryan Mountcastle hit a two-run homer to help the Orioles wipe out an early three-run deficit with a five-run outburst. Mountcastle added another two-run homer the next inning and finished with five RBIs, helping the Orioles to an 11-7 victory over the Royals — and a 10th consecutive series-opening win.

"Just a great game offensively," Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said. "Mountcastle was a huge part of our lineup."

He wasn't the only part, though. Adley Rutschman had four hits and an RBI, James McCann had three hits and also drove in a run, and the Orioles finished with 15 hits to go with eight walks against Kansas City pitching.

"They have a lot of ways to beat you," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.

Wells (2-1) allowed three hits over six innings but they were all homers: Bobby Witt Jr.'s leadoff rocket, a two-run homer by MJ Melendez and a solo shot by Salvador Perez. Wells also walked three and struck out four.

Perez, who added a two-run homer in the seventh, left in the eighth inning when Anthony Santander's follow-through hit the catcher on his glove. Perez bruised his middle finger and Freddy Fermin handled the rest of the game.

Ryan Yarbrough (0-4) matched a Royals record by striking out the first five Baltimore batters, including Mountcastle, before things fell apart in the fourth. The power-hitting first baseman followed a double by Rutschman with his first two-run homer, and Yarbrough was pulled after 3 2/3 innings as the Orioles batted through the lineup and scored five times.

Mountcastle added another two-run shot off Jose Cuas in the fifth, his eighth homer of the season, then added a run-scoring double in the sixth, before the Orioles cruised the rest of the way to their 16th win in their last 20 games.

The Royals have lost 10 straight at Kauffman Stadium to match the third-longest streak in franchise history. They also had a pair of 11-game streaks end in 2012 and 2013, the year before they won the first of back-to-back AL pennants.

This bunch appears to be a long way from such lofty heights. The Royals fell to 7-23 under Quatraro, matching the 2005 team that lost 106 games for the worst 30-game start in franchise history.

"It's not where we want to be right now," Witt said. "You're in the big leagues. You can't stay away from that."

Things started well for Kansas City on Tuesday night when Witt hit his first career leadoff homer and Melendez sent an 85 mph changeup deep to right field for a 3-0 lead. But after Yarbrough joined Gil Meche and Brady Singer as the only Royals to begin a game with five strikeouts, the Orioles quickly erased their deficit.

Mountcastle's first homer took care of most of it, an RBI single by McCann tied the game, and Cedric Mullins added a two-run single later in the fourth. Mountcastle's second two-run shot gave him his eighth career multi-homer game, and he helped the Orioles tack on three more runs in the sixth to put the game out of reach.

"I'm happy that we opened up another series with a win," Hyde said.

On the at-bat that forced Perez out of the game, Santander eventually singled after seeing 16 pitches, including 12 consecutive foul balls. ... Orioles RHP Yennier Cano allowed a single in the ninth to end a club-record 32 straight hitless at-bats to start the season. ... The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum announced Tuesday it was planning to build a new 30,000-square foot facility in the 18th &amp; Vine section of Kansas City. The museum is a popular attraction for teams visiting the Royals.

The Royals recalled INF Maikel Garcia, one of their top prospects, along with Fermin from Triple-A Omaha. DH Franmil Reyes was optioned to the same club and INF Nicky Lopez (appendicitis) placed on the 10-day IL.

Orioles: RHP Dillon Tate (flexor strain) allowed two runs in 1 1/3 innings in a rehab stint for Double-A Bowie on Tuesday. RHP Mychal Givens (left knee inflammation) pitched a scoreless inning in the same game against Erie.

RHP Kyle Gibson (3.93 ERA) tries to become the first Orioles pitcher to start 5-0 since Jimmy Key won his first eight decisions in 1997 as the series continues on Wednesday night. RHP Zack Greinke (0-4, 6.10) gets the start for the Royals.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Tyler Wells was just hoping to hang around long enough to save the Baltimore bullpen, and maybe give the Orioles' hot-hitting lineup a chance to get them back in the game against the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday night."Whenever I say there's no quit in this team," Wells said later, "there's no quit in this offense."That was evident by the fourth inning, when Ryan Mountcastle hit a two-run homer to help the Orioles wipe out an early three-run deficit with a five-run outburst. Mountcastle added another two-run homer the next inning and finished with five RBIs, helping the Orioles to an 11-7 victory over the Royals — and a 10th consecutive series-opening win."Just a great game offensively," Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said. "Mountcastle was a huge part of our lineup."He wasn't the only part, though. Adley Rutschman had four hits and an RBI, James McCann had three hits and also drove in a run, and the Orioles finished with 15 hits to go with eight walks against Kansas City pitching."They have a lot of ways to beat you," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said.Wells (2-1) allowed three hits over six innings but they were all homers: Bobby Witt Jr.'s leadoff rocket, a two-run homer by MJ Melendez and a solo shot by Salvador Perez. Wells also walked three and struck out four.Perez, who added a two-run homer in the seventh, left in the eighth inning when Anthony Santander's follow-through hit the catcher on his glove. Perez bruised his middle finger and Freddy Fermin handled the rest of the game.Ryan Yarbrough (0-4) matched a Royals record by striking out the first five Baltimore batters, including Mountcastle, before things fell apart in the fourth. The power-hitting first baseman followed a double by Rutschman with his first two-run homer, and Yarbrough was pulled after 3 2/3 innings as the Orioles batted through the lineup and scored five times.Mountcastle added another two-run shot off Jose Cuas in the fifth, his eighth homer of the season, then added a run-scoring double in the sixth, before the Orioles cruised the rest of the way to their 16th win in their last 20 games.The Royals have lost 10 straight at Kauffman Stadium to match the third-longest streak in franchise history. They also had a pair of 11-game streaks end in 2012 and 2013, the year before they won the first of back-to-back AL pennants.This bunch appears to be a long way from such lofty heights. The Royals fell to 7-23 under Quatraro, matching the 2005 team that lost 106 games for the worst 30-game start in franchise history."It's not where we want to be right now," Witt said. "You're in the big leagues. You can't stay away from that."Things started well for Kansas City on Tuesday night when Witt hit his first career leadoff homer and Melendez sent an 85 mph changeup deep to right field for a 3-0 lead. But after Yarbrough joined Gil Meche and Brady Singer as the only Royals to begin a game with five strikeouts, the Orioles quickly erased their deficit.Mountcastle's first homer took care of most of it, an RBI single by McCann tied the game, and Cedric Mullins added a two-run single later in the fourth. Mountcastle's second two-run shot gave him his eighth career multi-homer game, and he helped the Orioles tack on three more runs in the sixth to put the game out of reach."I'm happy that we opened up another series with a win," Hyde said.THIS AND THATOn the at-bat that forced Perez out of the game, Santander eventually singled after seeing 16 pitches, including 12 consecutive foul balls. ... Orioles RHP Yennier Cano allowed a single in the ninth to end a club-record 32 straight hitless at-bats to start the season. ... The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum announced Tuesday it was planning to build a new 30,000-square foot facility in the 18th &amp; Vine section of Kansas City. The museum is a popular attraction for teams visiting the Royals.MAKING MOVESThe Royals recalled INF Maikel Garcia, one of their top prospects, along with Fermin from Triple-A Omaha. DH Franmil Reyes was optioned to the same club and INF Nicky Lopez (appendicitis) placed on the 10-day IL.TRAINER'S ROOMOrioles: RHP Dillon Tate (flexor strain) allowed two runs in 1 1/3 innings in a rehab stint for Double-A Bowie on Tuesday. RHP Mychal Givens (left knee inflammation) pitched a scoreless inning in the same game against Erie.UP NEXTRHP Kyle Gibson (3.93 ERA) tries to become the first Orioles pitcher to start 5-0 since Jimmy Key won his first eight decisions in 1997 as the series continues on Wednesday night. RHP Zack Greinke (0-4, 6.10) gets the start for the Royals.

Mountcastle's pair of 2-run HRs sends O's to 11-7 win in KC

The Southeast of Saline golf team kept the good times rolling in 2022, emerging on top in a tie with Hesston for first place at this year's SES Invitational.

Individually, four different Trojans would finish inside the top five, led by Dylan Esch, who carded a 79 to finish just seven strokes off the lead.

Team Results T1. Hesston- 324 T1. Southeast of Saline- 324 3. Council Grove- 356 4. Halstead- 367 5. Republic County- 393 6. Solomon- 397 7. Sacred Heart- 424 8. Beloit- 434 9. Herington- 436

Individual Results 3. Dylan Esch- 79 4.&nbsp;Joel Huffaker- 81 T5. Kayson Lilley- 82 T5. Adam Thiel- 82 T30. Eli Sawyers- 102 32. Matthew Redden- 103

By TYLER HENRY Salina Post contributor<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599179528888.png" alt="Coverage of SES golf is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!" />
 <figcaption>Coverage of SES golf is presented by Salina Ortho: Quality orthopedic care when you need it!</figcaption>
 </figure>The Southeast of Saline golf team kept the good times rolling in 2022, emerging on top in a tie with Hesston for first place at this year's SES Invitational.Individually, four different Trojans would finish inside the top five, led by Dylan Esch, who carded a 79 to finish just seven strokes off the lead.Here then is a look at the team and individual results from this year's invite.Team Results T1. Hesston- 324 T1. Southeast of Saline- 324 3. Council Grove- 356 4. Halstead- 367 5. Republic County- 393 6. Solomon- 397 7. Sacred Heart- 424 8. Beloit- 434 9. Herington- 436Individual Results 3. Dylan Esch- 79 4.&nbsp;Joel Huffaker- 81 T5. Kayson Lilley- 82 T5. Adam Thiel- 82 T30. Eli Sawyers- 102 32. Matthew Redden- 103

SES golf shares first at home invitational

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals recalled infielder Maikel Garcia, one of the organization's top prospects, along with catcher Freddy Fermin on Tuesday before opening a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles.

Franmil Reyes was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and infielder Nicky Lopez was placed on the 10-day injured list.

The 23-year-old Garcia appeared in nine games with the Royals last season and had a solid spring but began the year at Omaha, where he was hitting .242 with a homer and 17 RBIs in 24 games. He is primarily a shortstop but has played his last six games at third base, and there's where he will mostly play with the Royals.

"The impression I had in spring training was tremendous," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "Great athlete. Moved all over the field, looked natural wherever he was. He came off a really good winter ball. All of those things were extremely positive."

Fermin, who had his first big league hit April 23 against the Angels, was hitting .304 with five homers through 14 games at Omaha. He will serve as the primary backup to catcher Salvador Perez, which in turn allows young catcher-turned-outfielder MJ Melendez to concentrate on playing right field and working his way out of a hitting funk.

Melendez was hitting .172 with two homers and 10 RBIs entering Tuesday night.

"We're just trying to free him up mentally, physically, you know, let him concentrate on one position," Quatraro said. "Then, you know, he's not worried about game planning or going to the pitcher-catcher meetings."

Reyes, who once hit 30 homers in a season for Cleveland, was being counted upon to provide some power to a young Royals lineup lacking much punch. But he was hitting .186 with two homers and seven RBIs as the primary designated hitter.

The Royals hope Lopez can begin a rehab assignment in about two weeks after he went to the hospital Saturday night for an appendectomy. He was at the ballpark before Tuesday night's game and said he was feeling good.

In other news, Royals left-hander Daniel Lynch allowed two runs on four hits and a walk over 2 1/3 innings in his first rehab outing for Double-A Northwest Arkansas. He went on the 14-day IL on March 30 with a rotator cuff strain.

Outfield prospect Drew Waters, who was the frontrunner to start on opening day, suffered a setback in his recovery from an oblique injury that landed him on the IL in spring training. He was taking a swing when he felt tightness in his lower back.

"We're going to give him a couple of days and reevaluate and see what we can figure out," Quatraro said.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Royals recalled infielder Maikel Garcia, one of the organization's top prospects, along with catcher Freddy Fermin on Tuesday before opening a three-game series against the Baltimore Orioles.Franmil Reyes was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and infielder Nicky Lopez was placed on the 10-day injured list.The 23-year-old Garcia appeared in nine games with the Royals last season and had a solid spring but began the year at Omaha, where he was hitting .242 with a homer and 17 RBIs in 24 games. He is primarily a shortstop but has played his last six games at third base, and there's where he will mostly play with the Royals."The impression I had in spring training was tremendous," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. "Great athlete. Moved all over the field, looked natural wherever he was. He came off a really good winter ball. All of those things were extremely positive."Fermin, who had his first big league hit April 23 against the Angels, was hitting .304 with five homers through 14 games at Omaha. He will serve as the primary backup to catcher Salvador Perez, which in turn allows young catcher-turned-outfielder MJ Melendez to concentrate on playing right field and working his way out of a hitting funk.Melendez was hitting .172 with two homers and 10 RBIs entering Tuesday night."We're just trying to free him up mentally, physically, you know, let him concentrate on one position," Quatraro said. "Then, you know, he's not worried about game planning or going to the pitcher-catcher meetings."Reyes, who once hit 30 homers in a season for Cleveland, was being counted upon to provide some power to a young Royals lineup lacking much punch. But he was hitting .186 with two homers and seven RBIs as the primary designated hitter.The Royals hope Lopez can begin a rehab assignment in about two weeks after he went to the hospital Saturday night for an appendectomy. He was at the ballpark before Tuesday night's game and said he was feeling good.In other news, Royals left-hander Daniel Lynch allowed two runs on four hits and a walk over 2 1/3 innings in his first rehab outing for Double-A Northwest Arkansas. He went on the 14-day IL on March 30 with a rotator cuff strain.Outfield prospect Drew Waters, who was the frontrunner to start on opening day, suffered a setback in his recovery from an oblique injury that landed him on the IL in spring training. He was taking a swing when he felt tightness in his lower back."We're going to give him a couple of days and reevaluate and see what we can figure out," Quatraro said.

Royals add top prospect Garcia before series against Orioles

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Chiefs are re-signing Jerick McKinnon and declined the fifth-year option on fellow running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on Tuesday, solidifying their backfield behind incumbent Isiah Pacheco heading into offseason workouts.

McKinnon, who turns 31 this week, ran 72 times for 291 yards and a touchdown but was at his best out of the backfield, catching 56 passes for 512 yards and nine scores. McKinnon ended the regular season by reaching the end zone in six straight games, helping the Chiefs secure the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.

McKinnon helped the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl and could have scored there, but he gave himself up at the 2-yard line in the closing minutes. That allowed the Chiefs to hit the winning field goal in a 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

"He's certainly a guy that we love and greatly admire," Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said Monday.

Edwards-Helaire, a first-round pick in 2020, was the starter heading into last season, but injuries that have held him back throughout his career resurfaced. He missed much of the season with a high ankle sprain, forcing Pacheco to step into the role of lead running back, and the seventh-round draft pick never gave it up.

Edwards-Helaire came off injured reserve for the Super Bowl, but was inactive for the game.

In other news, Veach acknowledged that the Chiefs will begin working with All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a contract extension. He's entering the final year of an $80 million, four-year deal, and his salary cap hit is $28 million for this season.

The 28-year-old Jones is coming off perhaps his best season. The four-time Pro Bowl pick matched a career high with 15 1/2 sacks in the regular season, then ended a maddeningly playoff oh-for by picking up his first two postseason sacks.

"I think that's on the list of things to do," Veach said. "We get into the offseason, and you know, you're into combine meetings, and then you're into free agency, and then you're into the draft. And then after the draft, let the dust settle and start working on the future and things we can get accomplished in the spring."

Veach indicated that he would like to get an extension done before the Chiefs report to training camp in July.

"We'll get to work and see what we can do," he said.

There isn't nearly the same time pressure to rework the deal of MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though that could be on the agenda soon. He just completed the first season of a 10-year, $450 million contract, but recent deals — including one signed by the Eagle's Jalen Hurts — already have pushed Mahomes to seventh in the league in average yearly salary.

The benefits of working on Mahomes' contracts are twofold: The Chiefs want to keep him happy by paying him among the top tier of QBs, but they also can create some salary cap flexibility by altering the structure of the deal going forward.

"We're a few years into a long deal," Veach said, "but at the same time, we have great communication with Pat, so that'll be a situation where we work through all those things. There's no timing from our end because we're in constant communication."

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Chiefs are re-signing Jerick McKinnon and declined the fifth-year option on fellow running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on Tuesday, solidifying their backfield behind incumbent Isiah Pacheco heading into offseason workouts.McKinnon, who turns 31 this week, ran 72 times for 291 yards and a touchdown but was at his best out of the backfield, catching 56 passes for 512 yards and nine scores. McKinnon ended the regular season by reaching the end zone in six straight games, helping the Chiefs secure the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye.McKinnon helped the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl and could have scored there, but he gave himself up at the 2-yard line in the closing minutes. That allowed the Chiefs to hit the winning field goal in a 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles."He's certainly a guy that we love and greatly admire," Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said Monday.Edwards-Helaire, a first-round pick in 2020, was the starter heading into last season, but injuries that have held him back throughout his career resurfaced. He missed much of the season with a high ankle sprain, forcing Pacheco to step into the role of lead running back, and the seventh-round draft pick never gave it up.Edwards-Helaire came off injured reserve for the Super Bowl, but was inactive for the game.In other news, Veach acknowledged that the Chiefs will begin working with All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones on a contract extension. He's entering the final year of an $80 million, four-year deal, and his salary cap hit is $28 million for this season.The 28-year-old Jones is coming off perhaps his best season. The four-time Pro Bowl pick matched a career high with 15 1/2 sacks in the regular season, then ended a maddeningly playoff oh-for by picking up his first two postseason sacks."I think that's on the list of things to do," Veach said. "We get into the offseason, and you know, you're into combine meetings, and then you're into free agency, and then you're into the draft. And then after the draft, let the dust settle and start working on the future and things we can get accomplished in the spring."Veach indicated that he would like to get an extension done before the Chiefs report to training camp in July."We'll get to work and see what we can do," he said.There isn't nearly the same time pressure to rework the deal of MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, though that could be on the agenda soon. He just completed the first season of a 10-year, $450 million contract, but recent deals — including one signed by the Eagle's Jalen Hurts — already have pushed Mahomes to seventh in the league in average yearly salary.The benefits of working on Mahomes' contracts are twofold: The Chiefs want to keep him happy by paying him among the top tier of QBs, but they also can create some salary cap flexibility by altering the structure of the deal going forward."We're a few years into a long deal," Veach said, "but at the same time, we have great communication with Pat, so that'll be a situation where we work through all those things. There's no timing from our end because we're in constant communication."

Chiefs re-sign McKinnon, decline 5th year on Edwards-Helaire

By JOE REEDY AP Sports Writer

The latest Super Bowl ended up setting a viewer record. Nielsen released a revised number of 115.1 million for Fox Sports' broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs' 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in February. The previous record was the 2015 game between New England and Seattle at 114,442,000 viewers, not including streaming. It also supplanted the 2017 Super Bowl between Atlanta and New England as the most-watched of Fox's 10 Super Bowls.

Upon further review, this year's Super Bowl ended up setting a viewer record.

Nielsen released a revised number of 115.1 million for Fox Sports' broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs' 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in February.

The previous record was the 2015 game between New England and Seattle at 114,442,000 viewers, not including streaming. It also supplanted the 2017 Super Bowl between Atlanta and New England (113,668,000) as the most-watched of Fox's 10 Super Bowls.

Nielsen revised this year's original figure of 113.1 million by 2 million after a review that revealed encoding irregularities as well as issues with out-of-home measurement.

"I really appreciate their diligence in conducting the review and coming to the most correct number possible. Super Bowl Sunday is the most difficult day for them because you have not just the scale but people are watching on English and Spanish, in and out of home, online and all of that has to be stitched together into a credible number. I give them credit for acknowledging the issue, being transparent about it and get to the most correct number they can get to," said Fox Sports Executive Vice President Michael Mulvihill, who is head of strategy and analytics.

The review was initially triggered when NFL Network was credited with over 1 million viewers during the game at a time when their usual number is 80,000. A second review found errors with out-of-home measurement.

The total includes the broadcasts on Fox and Fox Deportes as well as streaming on Fox and the NFL's digital sites.

"It was a little deflating when it seemed like we didn't get the record but now that we know that we did, it's validating. It gives us pride in the year that we had," Mulvihill said.

The numbers for Rihanna's halftime show were also revised from 118.7 million to 121 million.

By JOE REEDY AP Sports WriterThe latest Super Bowl ended up setting a viewer record. Nielsen released a revised number of 115.1 million for Fox Sports' broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs' 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in February. The previous record was the 2015 game between New England and Seattle at 114,442,000 viewers, not including streaming. It also supplanted the 2017 Super Bowl between Atlanta and New England as the most-watched of Fox's 10 Super Bowls.Upon further review, this year's Super Bowl ended up setting a viewer record.Nielsen released a revised number of 115.1 million for Fox Sports' broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs' 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in February.The previous record was the 2015 game between New England and Seattle at 114,442,000 viewers, not including streaming. It also supplanted the 2017 Super Bowl between Atlanta and New England (113,668,000) as the most-watched of Fox's 10 Super Bowls.Nielsen revised this year's original figure of 113.1 million by 2 million after a review that revealed encoding irregularities as well as issues with out-of-home measurement."I really appreciate their diligence in conducting the review and coming to the most correct number possible. Super Bowl Sunday is the most difficult day for them because you have not just the scale but people are watching on English and Spanish, in and out of home, online and all of that has to be stitched together into a credible number. I give them credit for acknowledging the issue, being transparent about it and get to the most correct number they can get to," said Fox Sports Executive Vice President Michael Mulvihill, who is head of strategy and analytics.The review was initially triggered when NFL Network was credited with over 1 million viewers during the game at a time when their usual number is 80,000. A second review found errors with out-of-home measurement.The total includes the broadcasts on Fox and Fox Deportes as well as streaming on Fox and the NFL's digital sites."It was a little deflating when it seemed like we didn't get the record but now that we know that we did, it's validating. It gives us pride in the year that we had," Mulvihill said.The numbers for Rihanna's halftime show were also revised from 118.7 million to 121 million.

Upon further review, Fox sets viewer record for Super Bowl

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13680">Brianna Hernandez-Silva</a>&nbsp;(SR/Las Vegas, Nev.) repeated as the KCAC Offensive Player of the Year headlining Kansas Wesleyan's selections to the 2023 All-KCAC Flag Football teams released by the conference office. The All-KCAC Flag Football teams are selected by a vote of conference coaches.

Hernandez-Silva was a second-team selection at quarterback but was dominating at the position. She threw for 1706 yards in nine KCAC games during the season, with 30 touchdowns against only five interceptions. She completed 60.6 percent of her passes on the season, averaging 189.4 yards passing per game. She also rushed for 562 yards on 83 carries, with seven touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry and 62.4 yards rushing per game. She had 2267 yards of total offense, averaging 251.9 yards per game.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13687">Kendra Velasquez-Munro</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team as a running back. During conference play, Velasquez-Munro had eight carries for 91 yards, averaging 11.4 yards per carry with a touchdown, but excelled as a receiver, with 20 receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown, averaging 15.3 yards per game receiving. She was also an excellent screen blocker for the Coyotes, earning second-team All-KCAC honors at the position. She also served as KWU's punter, averaging 26.7 yards per punt during the season on 16 kicks, earning honorable-mention honors at punter.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13685">Angel Roman</a>&nbsp;(SO/Jacksonville, Fla.) was named to the first-team as a receiver, but it was not the only all-conference nod for the sophomore star. She also earned a second-team nod at utility player and an honorable-mention nod at defensive back. Roman led the Coyotes in receiving, with 38 catches for 428 yards and 11 touchdowns during the nine-game conference season. She averaged 47.6 yards per game receiving. She ranked third on the team in all-purpose yards, averaging 56 per game. Defensively she had 14 flag pulls during conference play, but picked off four passes, and had seven pass break-ups.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13682">Ciaran DeCuir</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was Wesleyan's other first-team offense selection. She ranked second on the team in receptions with 28 during KCAC play for a team-best 477 yards, averaging 59.6 per game. She had six receiving touchdowns, the second highest total on the team.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13688">Lexi Marquez</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team on defense. She led the Coyotes with 40 total flag pulls, and in interceptions with five, one of which she returned for a touchdown.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13679">Ja'Daa Wilson</a>&nbsp;(JR/Crawfordville, Fla.) was named to the first-team on defense. She had 23 flag pulls on the season at defensive back, and also had a team-best seven pass breakups during conference play. She also had a key interception in KWU's KCAC semifinal win over Midland. She also led the Coyotes in punt returns with 12 returns for 94 yards, including one for a touchdown.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14274">Shanya Murape</a>&nbsp;(FR/Toronto, Ontario) was named to the first-team defense. She had 25 flag pulls during the season, which included recording 3.5 sacks on the season. She also had three pass breakups. She also was named honorable-mention at a utility player for the Coyotes. She played several different roles for the Coyotes during the season, including at quarterback.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13683">Nickayla Howard</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team on defense. She had 26 flag pulls on the season which included a sack, and two stops for loss. She had one interception during conference play and had five pass breakups, often playing against some of the oppositions top receivers.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14268">Angel Almaraz</a>&nbsp;(FR/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the second-team on offense at the center position. She was a big part of helping KWU average 37.9 points and 289.6 yards per game during the conference season. She added 24 receptions for 2001 yards and four touchdowns, including the game-winner in KWU's come-from-behind win over Midland.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13684">Alexa Mansur</a>&nbsp;(SO/Henderson, Nev.) was named to the second-team on defense. She ranked second on the team with 38 flag pulls during the c conference eason, and added a half sack and 1.5 stops for loss. She had four interceptions one of which was returned for a touchdown. She led the team with seven pass breakups on the season.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13689">Alexis Jimenez</a>&nbsp;(SO/Miami, Fla.) was named to the second-team on defense. She had 29 flag pulls during the season, and had two sacks, two pass breakups and an interception during conference play.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13690">Ashley Hawthorne</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the honorable-mention team on offense. She had 14 receptions for 124 yards during the conference season, with a touchdown, averaging 13.8 yards per game receiving.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14270">Jazmine Whitfield</a>&nbsp;(FR/Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) was named to the honorable-mention team on offense. She had 16 receptions for 215 yards and five touchdowns during conference play. She also had he also added an interception on defense.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14272">Leila Casillan</a>&nbsp;(FR/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the honorable-mention team on defense. Casillan led the Coyotes with 16.5 sacks on the season and had 22 total flag pulls.

KWU posted an 8-2 record in KCAC play, which included a forfeit win over Bethel during the season. The Coyotes are 13-4 on the season heading into the NAIA Flag Football Finals in Atlanta starting May 18. Flag football remains at emerging sport status at the NAIA level, and the flag football finals are not an official national championship event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683062809628.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU Sports Information<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13680">Brianna Hernandez-Silva</a>&nbsp;(SR/Las Vegas, Nev.) repeated as the KCAC Offensive Player of the Year headlining Kansas Wesleyan's selections to the 2023 All-KCAC Flag Football teams released by the conference office. The All-KCAC Flag Football teams are selected by a vote of conference coaches.Hernandez-Silva was a second-team selection at quarterback but was dominating at the position. She threw for 1706 yards in nine KCAC games during the season, with 30 touchdowns against only five interceptions. She completed 60.6 percent of her passes on the season, averaging 189.4 yards passing per game. She also rushed for 562 yards on 83 carries, with seven touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry and 62.4 yards rushing per game. She had 2267 yards of total offense, averaging 251.9 yards per game.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13687">Kendra Velasquez-Munro</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team as a running back. During conference play, Velasquez-Munro had eight carries for 91 yards, averaging 11.4 yards per carry with a touchdown, but excelled as a receiver, with 20 receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown, averaging 15.3 yards per game receiving. She was also an excellent screen blocker for the Coyotes, earning second-team All-KCAC honors at the position. She also served as KWU's punter, averaging 26.7 yards per punt during the season on 16 kicks, earning honorable-mention honors at punter.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13685">Angel Roman</a>&nbsp;(SO/Jacksonville, Fla.) was named to the first-team as a receiver, but it was not the only all-conference nod for the sophomore star. She also earned a second-team nod at utility player and an honorable-mention nod at defensive back. Roman led the Coyotes in receiving, with 38 catches for 428 yards and 11 touchdowns during the nine-game conference season. She averaged 47.6 yards per game receiving. She ranked third on the team in all-purpose yards, averaging 56 per game. Defensively she had 14 flag pulls during conference play, but picked off four passes, and had seven pass break-ups.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13682">Ciaran DeCuir</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was Wesleyan's other first-team offense selection. She ranked second on the team in receptions with 28 during KCAC play for a team-best 477 yards, averaging 59.6 per game. She had six receiving touchdowns, the second highest total on the team.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13688">Lexi Marquez</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team on defense. She led the Coyotes with 40 total flag pulls, and in interceptions with five, one of which she returned for a touchdown.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13679">Ja'Daa Wilson</a>&nbsp;(JR/Crawfordville, Fla.) was named to the first-team on defense. She had 23 flag pulls on the season at defensive back, and also had a team-best seven pass breakups during conference play. She also had a key interception in KWU's KCAC semifinal win over Midland. She also led the Coyotes in punt returns with 12 returns for 94 yards, including one for a touchdown.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14274">Shanya Murape</a>&nbsp;(FR/Toronto, Ontario) was named to the first-team defense. She had 25 flag pulls during the season, which included recording 3.5 sacks on the season. She also had three pass breakups. She also was named honorable-mention at a utility player for the Coyotes. She played several different roles for the Coyotes during the season, including at quarterback.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13683">Nickayla Howard</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the first-team on defense. She had 26 flag pulls on the season which included a sack, and two stops for loss. She had one interception during conference play and had five pass breakups, often playing against some of the oppositions top receivers.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14268">Angel Almaraz</a>&nbsp;(FR/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the second-team on offense at the center position. She was a big part of helping KWU average 37.9 points and 289.6 yards per game during the conference season. She added 24 receptions for 2001 yards and four touchdowns, including the game-winner in KWU's come-from-behind win over Midland.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13684">Alexa Mansur</a>&nbsp;(SO/Henderson, Nev.) was named to the second-team on defense. She ranked second on the team with 38 flag pulls during the c conference eason, and added a half sack and 1.5 stops for loss. She had four interceptions one of which was returned for a touchdown. She led the team with seven pass breakups on the season.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13689">Alexis Jimenez</a>&nbsp;(SO/Miami, Fla.) was named to the second-team on defense. She had 29 flag pulls during the season, and had two sacks, two pass breakups and an interception during conference play.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/13690">Ashley Hawthorne</a>&nbsp;(SO/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the honorable-mention team on offense. She had 14 receptions for 124 yards during the conference season, with a touchdown, averaging 13.8 yards per game receiving.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14270">Jazmine Whitfield</a>&nbsp;(FR/Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) was named to the honorable-mention team on offense. She had 16 receptions for 215 yards and five touchdowns during conference play. She also had he also added an interception on defense.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/33/14272">Leila Casillan</a>&nbsp;(FR/Las Vegas, Nev.) was named to the honorable-mention team on defense. Casillan led the Coyotes with 16.5 sacks on the season and had 22 total flag pulls.KWU posted an 8-2 record in KCAC play, which included a forfeit win over Bethel during the season. The Coyotes are 13-4 on the season heading into the NAIA Flag Football Finals in Atlanta starting May 18. Flag football remains at emerging sport status at the NAIA level, and the flag football finals are not an official national championship event.

KWU flag football earns player of year, All-KCAC honors

CONCORDIA - After leading the Cloud County Community College baseball team to a 3-1 series win over Colby Community College, T-Bird freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/b3f306db-b567-4039-a0b3-06d64d66c996?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Demitri Shakotko</a>&nbsp;has been named Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference West Division Player of the Week. Shakotko put together his strongest week of the season as the Fredericton, New Brunswick native would go 13-for-17 with eight RBI and four extra-base hits to help Cloud County win the final three games of their series with the Trojans. With multi-hit games in all four games last week, Shakotko would raise his batting average 38 points week over week (.390 to .428) despite entering the series against Colby with 117 at-bats on the year. Shakotko now has a nine-game hitting streak and 19 consecutive game reached base streak to rank sixth in the KJCCC in batting average overall while hitting an astounding .505 in conference play to lead all other qualified players by 26 points in batting average in KJCCC-only contests. Shakotko is the third player from CCCC this season to earn KJCCC West Player of the Week honors, joining&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e3b5bfd1-3929-4e69-a201-033054a8ac76?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Danny Infante</a>&nbsp;(2/21/2023) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2a20342d-b674-4b86-ab50-1f36f5d10fa6?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Kolden Howerton</a>&nbsp;(3/14/23). In total, Cloud County has had four players earn weekly honors with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ea59c25f-c10b-42e6-845f-c628e93ed43d?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Phil Brennaman</a>&nbsp;bringing home KJCCC West Pitcher of the Week honors on April 18th.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683062485097.png" alt="Demitri Shakotko. Image courtesy CCCC" />
 <figcaption>Demitri Shakotko. Image courtesy CCCC</figcaption>
 </figure>Cloud County Sports InformationCONCORDIA - After leading the Cloud County Community College baseball team to a 3-1 series win over Colby Community College, T-Bird freshman&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/b3f306db-b567-4039-a0b3-06d64d66c996?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Demitri Shakotko</a>&nbsp;has been named Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference West Division Player of the Week. Shakotko put together his strongest week of the season as the Fredericton, New Brunswick native would go 13-for-17 with eight RBI and four extra-base hits to help Cloud County win the final three games of their series with the Trojans. With multi-hit games in all four games last week, Shakotko would raise his batting average 38 points week over week (.390 to .428) despite entering the series against Colby with 117 at-bats on the year. Shakotko now has a nine-game hitting streak and 19 consecutive game reached base streak to rank sixth in the KJCCC in batting average overall while hitting an astounding .505 in conference play to lead all other qualified players by 26 points in batting average in KJCCC-only contests. Shakotko is the third player from CCCC this season to earn KJCCC West Player of the Week honors, joining&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/e3b5bfd1-3929-4e69-a201-033054a8ac76?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Danny Infante</a>&nbsp;(2/21/2023) and&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/2a20342d-b674-4b86-ab50-1f36f5d10fa6?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Kolden Howerton</a>&nbsp;(3/14/23). In total, Cloud County has had four players earn weekly honors with&nbsp;<a href="http://cloudtbirds.com/services/go.ashx/ea59c25f-c10b-42e6-845f-c628e93ed43d?elinkdata=49828" target="_blank">Phil Brennaman</a>&nbsp;bringing home KJCCC West Pitcher of the Week honors on April 18th.&nbsp;&nbsp;