By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Their victory Thursday in Kansas City was a little unique.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Basketball Writer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michigan transfer Dickinson headed to Kansas next season

By KAREN MATTHEWS Associated Press

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The NFL has said Flores' claims are without merit.

Associated Press writers Rob Maaddi and Stephen Whyno contributed.

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

New York, California probing workplace discrimination at NFL

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

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

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

Smith's acquisition could change those plans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chiefs sign tackle Donovan Smith to 1-year deal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By MARC BOWMAN Associated Press

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.