Devil Rays Rays beaten, bruised [AP photo] Lack of power, clutch hitting result in a 6-2 loss to the Royals as Russ Johnson winds up disabled. Closer a working paradox Hans Smith is confusing, at best. Castilla starts over in Houston KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The prospective employer wanted to check references, so a call was put in to Devil Rays manager Hal McRae. Castilla saves T.B. a bundle KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Devil Rays took a loss on Vinny Castilla's contract, but they might have softened the blow.

Bucs
McKay sick in hospital
Bucs' first coach in intensive care at St. Joseph's.

NHL
Lemieux ignites 3-goal 2nd
Penguins star leads the 4-2 come-from-behind win over the Devils with two assists to even the East final series at 1.

Pro basketball
Hornets take charge with win on the road
They step up 94-86, are one win from East final.

Talent translates for Miracle
Brazilian center Cintia dos Santos has standout skills for WNBA.

Mutiny
TSA lease deal very close
Unlike seasons past, it appears the Mutiny's future in Tampa is solid. General manager Bill Manning confirmed that the club is close to signing a lease renewal with the Tampa Sports Authority that will keep the team in Raymond James Stadium through 2006. Its three-year lease runs out in November. Manning said talks with TSA president Henry Saavedra began last year.

Shorts
Sports briefs
Nemechek injured in crash during testing

NFL briefs
Rumor mill starting to heat up for Rice

College basketball
Donovan offers anti-escape plan
GAINESVILLE, -- Despite the loss of recruit Kwame Brown, basketball goes on at Florida.

Outdoors
Captain's corner
The Tampa Bay area is the state's tarpon fishing capital.

Preps
TC has confidence in rookie
TAMPA -- A freshman will start on the mound for Tampa Catholic in today's Class 3A state semifinal, and no Crusader is batting an eye.

Crusader's time for redemption arrives
Tony Moscato is playing a dangerous game, and he doesn't care.

State tournament sidelines
Quotable