The sizzling Cleveland Indians, coming off a four-game sweep of the White Sox in Chicago, are in Kansas City for three games starting Tuesday.

When: Tuesday through Thursday.

Where: Kauffman Stadium.

TV/radio: SportsTime Ohio; WTAM AM/1100, WMMS FM/100.7.

Pitching matchups: RHP Corey Kluber (6-5, 4.16) vs. RHP Luis Mendoza (2-4, 4.16) Tuesday at 8:10 p.m.; LHP Scott Kazmir (4-4, 4.83) vs. RHP Jeremy Guthrie (7-6, 4.11) Wednesday at 8:10 p.m. and RHP Ubaldo Jimenez (6-4, 4.63) vs. RHP James Shields (3-6, 2.99) Thursday at 2:10 p.m.

Season series: Indians lead, 4-3. The Indians lead, 307-491, overall.

Indians update: They're coming off a four-game sweep of the White Sox and have won 14 of 19. The Indians are hitting .270 against the Royals with Asdrubal Cabrera (.500) and Mike Aviles (.313, eight RBI) leading the way. Kluber and Jimenez are each 1-0 against K.C. this year.

Royals update: They're coming off a four-game split with the Twins, but have lost six of 10. Akron native David Lough is hitting .500 (6-for-12) against the Tribe this year. Guthrie is 1-0 and Mendoza 0-1 against the Indians this year. Shields has a no-decision.

Injuries: Indians -- RHP Zach McAllister (right middle finger), C Lou Marson (right shoulder), RHP Brett Myers (right elbow/forearm), RHP Josh Tomlin (right elbow), RHP Frank Herrmann (right elbow) and RHP Blake Wood (right elbow) are on the disabled list. CF Michael Bourn is on paternity leave. Royals -- RHP Felipe Paulino (right elbow) is on the 60-day disabled list.

Next for Indians: Tribe returns to Progressive Field for a four-game series against the Tigers beginning Friday.

Cleveland Indians second baseman Jason Kipnis was named AL Player of the Week for the second time in June, and a loss by the Detroit Tigers put the Tribe atop the AL Central.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- June ended Monday with the Indians resting at their team hotel safe in America's heartland. Yet even in repose the momentum of a season never really stops.

While the Indians gathered themselves for the start of Tuesday's three-game series against the Royals, the energy they generated last month helped carry them into sole possession of first place in the AL Central as the Tigers lost  to Toronto.

Meanwhile, Jason Kipnis, as his head lay upon the pillow, was named American League Player of the Week on Monday for the second time in June.

"I just hope this doesn't stop when June stops," said Kipnis over the weekend in Chicago. "I want to keep this going as long as I can."

Manager Terry Francona says good players are like water, they seek their own level.

"He started out the first four or five weeks really scuffling," said Francona. "But because he'd already done it, you could tell everybody, 'Relax he'll be fine.'

"Good players have a way of getting to their level. It's amazing how that works. He was rising to that level when he really got hot."

Kipnis hit .419 (39-for-93) with 12 doubles, four homers, 25 RBI, 17 runs and 20 walks in 27 games in June.

In spring training, he didn't look good at the plate. It carried into April as Kipnis hit .200 (14-for-70) with one homer and four RBI. He was having problems with his elbows and fans wanted Francona to move him down in the lineup.

Things improved somewhat in May, but at the end of the first two months of the season, Kipnis was still only hitting .238 (43-for-181).

"I'm streaky, but this one has lasted longer than usual," he said. "I can slump with the best of them. Right now I think I'm maturing as a player and hitter. I'm just trying not to change anything."

The best month in Kipnis' career fattened his average from .238 to .299 (82-for-274) with 22 doubles, three triples, 12 homers, 51 RBI, 44 runs and 19 steals in 24 attempts. He has reached base by hit, walk or hit by pitch in 32 straight games, the longest such streak by an Indian since Victor Martinez reached in 45 straight games from Sept. 17, 2005 to May 6, 2006.

The Indians just completed their first four-game sweep of the White Sox in Chicago since 1948. Playing in front of his hometown crowd, here's what Kipnis did:

Game 1 of Friday's doubleheader: Went 3-for-4, reached base six straight times, scored four runs, drove in two and stole a base.

Game 2: Hit a game-tying sacrifice fly as part of a four-run, game-winning rally in the ninth inning.

Saturday: Hit a game-tying two-run homer in the sixth and singled as part of a game-winning rally in the eighth in a 4-3 victory.

Francona rested Kipnis on Sunday.

"He's locked in," said Chicago right-hander Dylan Axelrod, who gave up the two-run homer to Kipnis on Saturday. "He's at the top of his game right now."

Kipnis started turning his season around when he began to concentrate on hitting the ball to the middle of the field. It looks like the left-handed hitting Kipnis is consciously going to left and left-center field, but he says that's not the case.

"I'm just trying to stay through the ball," he said. "The idea of pulling a ball every now and then comes into my head and I try to shoo it away as fast as I can. Right now, I've got a lot of confidence at the plate and I'm seeing the ball well.

"The pitch recognition is there and it leads to a bunch of hits. So I'm happy about it."

Kipnis leads the Indians in average, RBI, hits and on-base percentage. He is one of several offensive-minded second basemen in the AL, including Robinson Cano, Dustin Pedroia and Ian Kinsler.

"It's nice because normally your middle infielders don't hit for power," said Francona. "When you get it out of a second baseman, that's a bonus. It allows us to have some speed in the outfield because we're probably missing some power there."

The flow of the game dictates that some cold times are coming for Kipnis. Francona, however, thinks the converted college outfielder still has room to grow.

"I think as he gets to know the league, he's going to get better," said Francona. "He's an intelligent player and he's got a really good swing. As long as he stays healthy, I think he'll get better."

Ross Beal of Uniontown is the leader in clubhouse

WESTFIELD CENTER, Ohio -- The first round of the 90th Ohio Open was halted by heavy rains that fell on the North and South courses of the Westfield Group Country Club on Monday.

Almost half the field of 265 was on the course when Northern Ohio PGA officials summoned the players off the course following a fast-moving storm that left many fairways and greens under water.

The first round -- of a scheduled 54 holes -- is to resume at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday on both courses. Tee times for the second round are set to begin at 8:30 a.m. on both courses.

"Hopefully that will enable us to get back on schedule," said tournament director David  Griffith.

Of those who finished, Uniontown's Ross Beal posted a low score of 7-under 65 on the North Course and had a 4-shot lead in the clubhouse.

Whether the Indians remain in first place for the final three months depends on multiple factors.

Manager Terry Francona's Indians are fired up and in first place on July 1. Now comes the hard part: Can they sustain?Chuck Crow, The Plain Dealer 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- What did not seem possible on June 10 became a reality: The Indians were alone in first place on July 1.

The Tribe (44-38) leads the Detroit Tigers (43-38) by one-half game in the AL Central. While the Tribe had an off-day Monday in advance of a three-game series in Kansas City, Mo., the Tigers lost at Toronto.

On June 10, the Indians lost at Texas to fall to 30-33. They were tied with the Royals in second place, 5 1/2 games back of Detroit. The defeat June 10 was the Indians' eighth straight. They are 14-5 since, including a current four-game winning streak.

Do the Indians have staying power? Can they challenge for the division, and, if not, a wild card?

It did not happen the previous two seasons, when the Tribe had similar records through three months.

Through July 1, 2011, the Indians were 43-37 and led the Central by one-half game over Detroit. They finished 80-82, second place, 15 games back of the Tigers.

Through July 1, 2012, the Indians were 40-38, second place, 1 1/2 games back of the White Sox and 1 1/2 games clear of third-place Detroit. They finished 68-94, fourth place, 20 games back of champion Detroit.

The Tribe optimist will submit that this edition is different -- from the manager to many of the players. The pessimist will submit that this is Cleveland.

Here is a capsule look at the case for and against the Indians being able to hang in the race for the final three months:

Case for: The Tigers have issues, especially in the bullpen. Closers are overrated -- until a club doesn't have one. The Tigers are blowing games late, and it is having a trickle-down effect. Detroit is five games above .500 despite a combined 145 RBI from Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder and a 12-0 record from Max Scherzer.

Case against: The Tigers are loaded. As such, they are too good to keep slogging and will crank it up again. They have veterans who know how to win. Cabrera and Fielder are doing what they do; no reason it can't continue. Even if Scherzer doesn't finish undefeated, Justin Verlander (8-5, 3.77 ERA) is overdue to return to his dominant self. Detroit's bullpen can't possibly be this bad.

Case for: Terry Francona. Last October, Indians President Mark Shapiro and General Manager Chris Antonetti brought in a proven winner to be their manager. Francona was hugely successful in Boston, highlighted by two World Series rings in a four-year span (2004, 2007). Players love going to work for Francona, whose attributes include knowing how to keep a club together during the inevitable rough times.

Case against: Francona does not play. Managers can only do so much. Even with Francona as manager, the Indians already have had several pronounced skids.

Case for: The Indians have not played their best baseball. Tribe personnel felt the same way the previous two years, but this one is different because the roster significantly has been upgraded from 2011-2012. None of the newcomers -- notably,  high-priced free agents Michael Bourn or Nick Swisher -- is playing out of his shoes. The Indians are in first place despite just two regulars sniffing .300 (Bourn, Jason Kipnis,  .299); two players with 40-plus RBI (Kipnis, 51; Mark Reynolds, 46); and one pitcher with more than six victories (starter Justin Masterson, 10).

The Indians are in first despite injuries to their All-Stars from 2011-2012, shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera and closer Chris Perez, and to Swisher, Bourn, starter Zach McAllister and setup man Vinnie Pestano.

Case against: The Indians aren't capable of playing much better because their roster lacks star power. They don't have anyone close to Miggy and Prince, or Scherzer and Verlander -- guys who can carry clubs for multiple months in a row. Most Tribe players, when healthy, are performing at levels/efficiencies achieved in recent seasons or over their careers. Kipnis, the notable exception, can't be expected to maintain his ridiculous June production rate.

The Indians have been susceptible to losing stretches in part because their rotation does not possess elite arms that can be counted on as stoppers. They don't have starters who make opponents nervous. And the inability to get deep into games on a consistent basis puts too much pressure on the bullpen.

Injuries happen. Every team endures injuries.

Case for: The Indians are versatile and deep. They have received contributions up and down the roster, instead of relying on a handful. They feature 11 players with 20-plus RBI. They are much better equipped to defeat left-handed pitching. Their bench, which includes Mike Aviles and Ryan Raburn, is a considerable upgrade over the previous two years.

Case against: They still need more All-Star caliber players.

Case for: The Indians have their bullpen back. The law firm of Perez, Pestano and Joe Smith, so solid at the back end in the previous two years, is healthy together for the first time since early April. All Tribe relievers, having returned to their roles, should be much better in the second half.  

Case against: Bullpens offer no guarantees of success. Perez has not fully regained his velocity, though he has been sharp in his past two appearances. Even when Perez, Pestano and Smith are right, the Tribe bullpen might struggle because it lacks matchup lefties.

Case for: The schedule is easier. The Indians are done with the Blue Jays in Toronto; the Rangers in Texas; the Orioles in Baltimore; and the Yankees, Rays, Red Sox, Reds and Nationals.

Case against: The Indians have plenty of games remaining against Detroit, young-and-hungry Kansas City and the dangerous, albeit underachieving, Angels. They have home series against Toronto, Texas and Baltimore and a road set against Oakland.

Case for: Help is on the way. Antonetti will deliver an impact arm, at a minimum, before the non-waiver trade deadline of July 31. He will do so because Francona is the manager. Francona did not come to Cleveland to watch the front office stand pat at the deadline. Antonetti will not burden him with Lars Anderson.

Case against: Every contender wants quality pitching, and it is in short supply. The Indians don't have the prospects to withstand a bidding war for the likes of Matt Garza.

The Cleveland Indians would love it if Drew Stubbs bunted more often. The outfielder says it's not always that easy.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Manager Terry Francona wouldn't complain if Drew Stubbs bunted more. Turns out the Cincinnati Reds felt the same way.

Stubbs, however, sees the bunt as something that cuts both ways.

"It's definitely something I'm aware of," said Stubbs. "In Cincinnati, they were always saying, 'Look at the bunt more, look at the bunt more.' Well, if they're not giving it to you, you don't want to force something. If they're playing in tight on the corners, and you don't make a good bunt, then you're mad at yourself for not giving yourself a chance to get a hit elsewhere."

The Indians acquired Stubbs in December as part of a three-team trade with Cincinnati and Arizona.

In Sunday's 4-0 victory, White Sox left-hander Chris Sale retired nine straight before Stubbs started the fourth inning with a bunt single to third. Ryan Raburn doubled him home with two outs, then scored on Carlos Santana's single.

"I think we all hoped we'd see it [the bunt] more because it can be such a weapon for him," said Francona. "Against Sale, that was huge because Sale's stuff is filthy. Now he has to pitch out of the stretch and respect Drew's speed on the bases."

Chicago's first and third basemen were pinching in on Stubbs when he came to the plate to start the fourth. Then third baseman Conor Gillaspie moved back after Sale threw a strike.

"You have to realize, the scouting report is out there," said Stubbs, one of the fastest Indians. "People know that I can run. A lot of teams take it away from you. When I'm feeling good, swinging the bat well, I feel I can do more damage trying to hit the ball.

"But when you have a tough pitcher out there, a tough matchup, and they're not taking it away from you, then you might do it."

As for throwing Sale off his game, Stubbs wasn't sure how much the bunt played into that.

"I know one thing, we had trouble getting anything going before that," he said. "A lot of time you get somebody in the stretch and it takes them out their comfort zone a little bit. Every pitch when I was on first, he was slide-stepping. When pitchers have to do that, it might cause them to make a mistake or two. Then when I got to second, Raburn put a real good swing on that ball."

Nice arm: Left fielder Michael Brantley has seven outfield assists, tying him for third in the AL with Toronto's Jose Bautista and Minnesota's Aaron Hicks.

No. 7 came Saturday when Chicago's Gordon Beckham tried to stretch a leadoff single into a double in the fourth inning and Brantley erased him with a strong throw to second base.

Asked to grade Brantley's arm, Francona said: "I would call it . . . can you say spectacular? He doesn't have a genuine cannon like a Mark Whiten, but he has the ability to make the pivot, come up on balance and be unbelievably accurate with a strong arm.

"That throw he made Saturday, that's not luck. He's done that a few times. He can get himself to balance, and get everything on the throw, with nice carry, and it's unbelievably accurate."

Last year, Brantley played a good center field for the Tribe. With the acquisition of center fielders Michael Bourn and Stubbs over the winter, changes were made, with Brantley moving to left.

"It sounds like we're bragging, but this is what we thought we'd see moving him to left field," said Francona.

Finally: Look for Carlos Carrasco to be recalled and start Saturday against the Tigers. He started the nightcap in Friday's doubleheader against the White Sox as the Indians' 26th man and was optioned to Class AAA after the game. . . . The Indians are 5-0-1 in their past six series, having split the Baltimore series, 2-2. . . . Before Justin Masterson beat the White Sox on Sunday at U.S. Cellular Field, he had been 0-5 with an 8.16 ERA in his previous five road starts.

Eight teams are reportedly interested in former Ohio State center Oden, and the Cavs may be among the five teams he may prefer. Cavs need a backup for Kyrie Irving. Free agents agree to deals and trade activity begins.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- It's a busy time in the NBA.

The flurry of activity began when the league held its draft last Thursday night, with the Cleveland Cavaliers taking UNLV forward Anthony Bennett as the No. 1 overall pick. The Cavs then landed forward-guard Sergey Karasev of Russia with the 19th pick in the first round and Arizona State guard-forward Carrick Felix with the third pick in the second round.

Some trades accompanied the draft and then, as June turned to July on Monday morning, the free agency period began. Players will move to other teams, some will stay where they've been and more trades will be completed.

One free agent who hasn't played in the last three seasons because of recurring knee problems is former Ohio State center Greg Oden. There's some optimism that Oden -- taken by the Portland Trail Blazers with the first overall pick in the 2007 draft -- will be able to resume his NBA career, which thus far consists of just 82 games played.

Several teams have reportedly been interested in Oden in recent months, including the Cavaliers.

Jason Lloyd of the Akron Beacon Journal today posts on his Twitter account:

As of this morning, no real movement on Oden front. #Cavs haven't reached out to Oden's camp during FA period, per source.

And, Alex Kennedy tweets for Hoopsworld.com that Cleveland might be in the running for another point guard, C.J. Watson, who spent last season with the Brooklyn Nets.

Free agency story links

Forward Earl Clark, who has been with the Los Angeles Lakers, will reportedly meet with the Cavaliers on Tuesday. (By Mary Schmitt Boyer, Plain Dealer)

The Cavaliers go into free agency with significant money available under the salary cap. (By Bob Finnan, News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal)

NBA sources confirm that the New York Knicks have finalized a trade for power forward Andrea Bargnani, a former first overall draft pick. The Knicks will send forward Steve Novak, center Marcus Camby, guard Quentin Richardson, a 2016 first-round pick and second-round picks in 2014 and 2017 to the Toronto Raptors for Bargnani. (By Jared Zwerling, ESPNNewYork,com)

The Golden State Warriors are checking out trade possibilities involving their all-star forward, David Lee. (By Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo! Sports)

The Chicago Bulls and veteran forward Mike Dunleavy have agreed in principle on a two-year contract, and center Al Jefferson will meet with the Charlotte Bobcats. (By Adrian Wojnarowksi and Marc J. Spears, Yahoo! Sports)

Center Dwight Howard's priority in free agency is which of -- theoretically -- five teams give him the best chance of winning a championship. (By Sam Amick, USA Today)

Point guard Eric Maynor and the Washington Wizards agree on a multi-year contract. (By Michael Lee, Washington Post)

The New Orleans Pelicans are set to offer a big-money contract to guard Tyreke Evans. (By Zach Harper, CBSSports.com)

The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers are discussing a possible sign-and-trade deal that would move guard O.J. Mayo to L.A. and guard Eric Bledsoe to Dallas ..... and, the Clippers are also talking with the Bucks about a potential trade that would send Bledsoe to Milwaukee in exchange for guard J.J. Redick. (By Brett Logiurato, Sports Illustrated)

Center Marreese Speights opts out of the final year of his contract with the Cavs and becomes an unrestricted free agent. (By Brian Dulik, Elyria Chronicle-Telegram and Medina County Gazette)

Eight teams are interested in Greg Oden, with the Cavaliers one of the five he's most likely to sign with. (Yahoo! Sports)

The Cavs go into free agency with the ability and a willingness to spend, but they may have to wait for the right moves as they want to maintain salary cap flexibility for next summer. (By Jason Lloyd, Akron Beacon Journal)

The Dallas Mavericks contact the agent for center Andrew Bynum. (By Tim MacMahon, ESPNDallas.com)

Keeping track of the movement of all NBA free agents. (NBA.com)

With a 44-38 record, these Indians look about the same as the Tribe teams of the last two years. But this team is built not to fade down the stretch.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Closing my eyes, I can see Terry Francona sitting almost straight up in a chair. His eyes were on fire, his voice was low and stern. He stared hard at a few reporters in the manager's office at Comerica Park.

The date was June 9, and the Tribe had just been swept in a three-game series in Detroit.

The Indians had lost seven in a row, 13 of 17 overall. They were 5 1/2 games behind the Tigers in the Central Division, and seemed to be sinking into an early-season baseball oblivion.

Someone mentioned last season, when the Tribe went from contention in July to an embarrassment in August and September.

Only now, it seemed to be happening in June.

"This is not last year, nor will it be," said Francona. "This is a different team."

It was one of those statements made where the implication was clear -- there will be no further discussion of the topic, no matter how many questions are asked.

The Indians lost the next day, 6-3, in Texas. The losing streak was eight, the overall record 30-33.

Then it all changed, beginning with two victories in Texas.

What looked like a June swoon became a team that came back from the dark side of the baseball moon. The Tribe has won 14 of 19 games, and enters Tuesday's action in first place with a half-game ahead of the Tigers.

Can it last?

Are the Indians a different team, a better team?

They have played slightly more than 50 percent of the 162-game schedule. Their record is 44-38.

Not bad at all.

But the Indians were 43-39 after 82 games last season . . . and finished 68-94.

They were 44-38 in 2011, and ended up 80-82.

Both years, they went from contention to dejection for the fans.

Will it happen again?

A lot will depend on the Tigers, who have roared in August and September in the last two seasons as the Tribe cowered in the Central Division corner.

But this season, the Tigers are 2-9 in extra innings, compared to 5-0 for the Tribe.

Detroit has lost five games when leading in the ninth inning; it's happened once to the Tribe.

The Indians are 17-7 in one-run games, the Tigers are 8-12.

Add it all up, and it shows Detroit has a bullpen crisis -- something that could keep the Tribe close all season.

The different bench

Consider this list:

Utility infielder: Jason Donald/Brent Lillibridge.

Extra outfielder: Aaron Cunningham/Shelley Duncan.

Backup catcher: Lou Marson.

That was the Tribe's bench for much of 2012.

Now this list:

Utility infielder: Mike Aviles.

Extra outfielder: Ryan Raburn.

Backup catcher: Yan Gomes.

That's the Tribe bench this season. Raburn and Aviles have been big-league regulars before.

Of that 2012 group, not a single player is on a current active Major League roster.

General manager Chris Antonetti and his staff didn't just overhaul the bench, they upgraded it.

Different is better

No need to dwell on the lineup from last season. Just know that Jose Lopez batted cleanup . . . 20 times. And he was placed on waivers twice in 2012.

The last four spots in the order were a true dead zone, often containing these names: Johnny Damon, Zeke Carrera, Casey Kotchman, Duncan and Jack Hannahan.

Kotchman is 0-for-20 with Miami and has battled injuries. Hannahan is hitting .188 as a reserve with the Reds. The others aren't even in the Majors.

The only significant loss from the 2012 lineup is Shin-Soo Choo, now with the Reds.

The Indians have added veterans Michael Bourn, Mark Reynolds, Nick Swisher and Drew Stubbs.

Bourn is hitting .299 with 11 stolen bases.

Reynolds has 15 homers and 46 RBI.

Swisher is batting .235 with eight homers and 29 RBI.

Stubbs is a .241 hitter with 30 RBI.

Not all the new acquisitions have met expectations, but the Indians now put out a viable Major League lineup that is tied for third in the American League in runs scored (with Detroit). The Indians were 13th in runs scored last season.

The Indians also are fourth in homers and tied for first with Boston in stolen bases.

As Antonetti admitted, "We're not a perfect team, but we have more power, more speed and better defense, especially in the outfield."

He then credited the Dolan family for allowing the team to sign free agents Swisher, Bourn and Reynolds. Ownership also kicked in $3 million to help the Choo trade go through, adding Matt Albers, Bryan Shaw, Trevor Bauer and Stubbs to the Tribe.

Bauer was the top prospect in that deal and has been a major disappointment so far, as his windup is a mess.

But given the fact that Choo will be a free agent (and not likely to re-sign with the Tribe), adding Stubbs to the outfield along with relievers Shaw and Albers is a nice haul for a player so close to free agency.

Experience matters

Then there's Francona.

He is a manager with enormous experience, two World Series rings from Boston and huge respect among players.

The front office also took his input, adding Aviles and Jason Giambi to the bench. The manager believed it's critical to have veterans who know they aren't going to be regulars, yet also realize how to be prepared to play at any moment.

Last season, the Tribe had the highest ERA (4.78) in the American League. This season, they are 12th at 4.28.

Not a major improvement, but better.

Justin Masterson (10-6) is having an All-Star season. Ubaldo Jimenez is 6-4, compared to 9-17 last season. Scott Kazmir, Corey Kluber and Zach McAllister have all had some nice moments.

"Our goal for this year was to put a competitive team on the field that plays meaningful games in August and September," said Antonetti. "We are moving in that direction. Terry (Francona) is a huge part of that, because he is such a strong leader and a great communicator."

Can the Indians collapse?

Of course it can happen. In three of the last four years, they have lost at least 92 games.

But will it happen again this season?

I'm with Francona on that point -- it won't.

This is indeed a different team.

Terry Pluto: terrypluto.com

Facebook: facebook.com/terrypluto

Faith stories: cleveland.com/pluto/faith

Kluber starts tonight for the Indians -- winners in 14 of their last 19 games -- in Kansas City. He's been especially good when Indians have needed him most -- following a loss. Indians not rushing a move of elite prospect Lindor to Class AA Akron. More Indians story links.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Indians, who have won 14 of their last 19 games to move into first place in the American League Central Division, begin a three-game series against the Royals tonight in Kansas City.

Right-hander Corey Kluber (6-5, 4.16) will start for the Tribe (44-38) while righty Luis Mendoza (2-4, 4.16) takes the mound for KC (38-41).

Cleveland has a half-game lead over the two-time defending division champion Detroit Tigers (43-38).

Check The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com for Indians coverage, including numerous columns, photos, videos and stories, such as Dennis Manoloff's story on the Indians' first-place status and -- having 80 games left -- what their chances might be to contend for the division title or a wild card.

Besides the Indians' 14-of-19 winning surge, they have won their last four games -- all in a weekend sweep of the White Sox in Chicago.

Corey Kluber tonight tries to help the Indians build on their winning ways.

Thomas Moore writes for theclevelandfan.com about some positives and negatives for the Indians so far this season, including how Kluber has been especially effective in a stopper's role, following a Tribe loss with a fine performance:

Kluber has turned into the Tribe's streak buster -- six times he has taken the mound this year following a Cleveland loss and in those starts he has gone 4-1 with an ERA of 2.38 and 40 strikeouts in 41.2 innings of work. In the other game, (May 26 against Boston), he earned a no-decision despite giving up just one run and striking out 10 as the Tribe bullpen fell apart in the ninth inning.

Corey Kluber and the Indians go against Luis Mendoza and the Royals. (By Kathleen Gier, MLB.com)

Ranking the top 10 Indians going into July, based on what they did in June. (By Brian Heise, Wahoo's on First)

A preview of the Indians' three-game series against the Royals in Kansas City. (Let's Go Tribe)

How the Indians' position players would finish the 162-game season statistically at their current paces -- prior to Sunday's 82nd game. (By Jim Ingraham, News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal)

Indians notebook, including notes on second baseman Jason Kipnis and outfielders Ryan Raburn and Drew Stubbs. (By Sheldon Ocker, Akron Beacon Journal)

What happened around the Indians' farm system on Monday. (By Michael Hattery, Indians Baseball Insider)

A summary of the last two weeks for the Indians' Class AA team, the Akron Aeros, and some of its players. (By Jim Piascik, Indians Baseball Insider)

Outfielder Cedric Hunter of the Akron Aeros provides some depth for the Indians organization. (By Ronnie Tellalian, Did the Tribe Win Last Night?)

An update on how things are going for the Indians' high-Class A team, the Carolina Mudcats, and some of its players. (By Tony Lastoria, FoxSportsOhio.com)

Here are what blogs from Cleveland and around the country are saying about the Browns, Cavaliers and Indians. Featured today are Stepien Rules, Did The Tribe Win Last Night? and Bleacher Report.

Here are what blogs from Cleveland and around the country are saying about the Browns, Cavaliers and Indians.

Should the Cavaliers pursue Nikola Pekovic? (AP Photo/Genevieve Ross) 

"Darren Collison

Among the backup point guards available this summer, however, Collison has always been the guy I'd love to see the Cavaliers acquire. He would be able to provide a stable NBA veteran presence along with the ability to contribute on a nightly basis. What I also have always liked about Collison, since spending time with him for a SLAM article I wrote on Darren back when he was with the Pacers, is that his commitment to team is real and contagious.

I know people attach those type of taglines to guys frivolously, but the way people like Frank Vogel and Roy Hibbert spoke about Collison convinced me those intangibles are real in his case. Collison is a student of the game who spends his free time watching film, which is something I'm sure attracted him to Mike Brown and the Cavs.

Though he's struggled some over the last two seasons, he's still a capable starter in this league if needed. At the same time, however, he's also a guy who'd be willing to support Irving in his continued to development and I'd be excited to see Collison land in Cleveland when the free agent dusts eventually settles.

Nikola Pekovic

With Kevin Love signed long-term, and the prospects of doing the same with Ricky Rubio looming, the Timberwolves can't possibly fit what Pekovic is set to earn on an open market into a salary cap structure that doesn't penalize them mercilessly under the new CBA moving forward. So whether or not Taylor would be willing to match an offer for his restricted free agent, I'm not sure he even can.

If the Cavaliers acquired Pekovic, he would have the potential to lock down the center position for the next four years. The 16.3 points and 8.8 rebounds he posted last season would've earned All-Star consideration if the game was still structured to include at least two centers.

When the Dwight Howard sweepstakes conclude, however, Pek is likely to be among the contingency plans that teams in need of a center eventually pursue. So while I'd be all for adding a player of his caliber to the equation, I think the price tag will become too much for the Cavs liking regardless of what Minnesota decides to do. "

Should the Indians look to move Chris Perez? (AP Photo/Pat Sullivan) 

"1. Your Trash is Not Another Team’s Treasure

In the days of the Cleveland Cavaliers playoff runs, this could have been called the “Damon Jones, Donyell Marshall and Ira Newble” clause, but the idea still holds true. You can’t trade guys you no longer want, yet bring back players who make a substantial difference in a pennant race.

Examples include Chris Perez, Lonnie Chisenhall and Nick Hagadone. Perez still has some value on the trade market, but the two-time All-Star closer likely was shopped last winter with no takers meeting the Indians’ price. Young teams out of contention don’t need or want a closer who has a contract that expires at the end of 2014 (nor do they want to pay him the $8 to 8.5 million he could land in arbitration this winter). Certainly a team in contention might have some interest in Perez, but trades between contenders are even more difficult to swing.

Chisenhall and Hagadone once were considered prospects, but really no longer meet the definition. Just because you haven’t established yourself as a full-time major leaguer, doesn’t necessarily mean you still are bursting with upside. Both still could emerge as valuable members of the Indians or another team, but each also has had several opportunities to shine in the big leagues and not taken advantage of them. If you are a team looking to trade off your best player, trading for players who have proven to not put it all together with several big league chances is not exactly what you want in return. Most teams looking to rebuild would rather receive younger players who aren’t MLB ready, don’t have their service time clock already running and have a higher potential at this point.

If the Tribe makes a big trade, it likely will center around its farm system. Which leads us to…

2. Every Trade Possibility is Not a Decision to Trade Francisco Lindor

Indians team President Mark Shapiro often is clear that every player has a value and that no player is untouchable, using the analogy that Babe Ruth was once traded, so anyone can be dealt for the right return.

With that said, every trade does not have to include Francisco Lindor in order to bring back major league talent to help the Tribe this season. Lindor is the Indians’ top prospect, playing in his second XM Future’s Game in two weeks. He is one of the youngest players in the Carolina League at 19 years old, hitting .304 in what is normally a pitcher-friendly league. The Indians entire organization regards him very highly, and at this point, hopes he can be a piece of the big league team by 2015.

Without a doubt, Lindor is the player that has the most value in the Indians farm system and would bring the greatest value, but anyone who believes Lindor is the only piece the Indians have to offer is just not familiar with the Tribe’s system. While the Indians farm system is still in the bottom half of organizational rankings, they do have players, other than Lindor, rebuilding teams would have interest in.

Most fans probably are familiar with Tyler Naquin, but get to know Danny Salazar at Triple-A Columbus; Carlos Moncrief, Ronny Rodriguez, Jose Ramirez, Jesus Aguilar and Matt Packer at Double-A Akron; and Joe Wendle, Jordan Smith, Cody Anderson and Shawn Morimondo along with Naquin at High-A Carolina. Each of them has different value on the trade market, but each is a player other organizations would have interest in (and players the Indians would prefer not parting with)."

How will Jabaal Sheard fit in the new Browns defense? (John Kuntz / The Plain Dealer) 

"Can Sheard transition from that to a 4-3 outside linebacker, a move that is not as easy to make as it may seem?

It seems too early to say.

One can be optimistic about his progress thus far. He was not traded right when Mingo was selected or when the transition was announced, unlike Frostee Rucker, who was quickly sent packing.

Still, being a linebacker means knowing a lot more about what the defense is planning and dropping back when needed rather then simply rushing the passer and stopping outside runs.

At 6'2" and 255 pounds, his size fits the role of a linebacker more, so that's not an issue. His speed may be, however, since he won't be right on the line to make a charge. On the other hand, defenses will be focusing on Paul Kruger and D'Qwell Jackson, which should make things easier.

I'm not worried about his sack numbers.

With three big bodies plugging up the middle and Jackson knowing when to drop into coverage, quarterbacks will still need to fear him.

It's knowing when to adjust on the fly that may be a problem.

That's the big transition Sheard will have to make, accounting for draw plays and the like. The only barrier to that is time, and that's something he does not have much of, especially if Mingo looks particularly good in training camp.

So, does Sheard fit in Cleveland's defense? Really, it depends which way Ray Horton goes. If they do more of a hybrid, where they could throw in the occasional 4-3 formation to go with the 3-4, Sheard will fit in perfectly fine, since he and Kruger both have that versatility to make it work."

Jim Thome returns to the Chicago White Sox as a special assistant to general manager Rick Hahn.

Jim Thome waited for a major-league offer to come in so he could continue to play at the age of 42. But after waiting half of the season, the future Hall of Famer has decided to take a front office position.

ESPN's Ron Jaworski sees better days ahead for Browns second-year QB Brandon Weeden.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Cleveland Browns have gone through an interesting offseason. Tthe new regime addressed the Browns' needs at linebacker, cornerback and wide receiver by bringing in the likes of Paul Kruger, Chris Owens, and Davone Bess either through free agency, the draft, or trades.

They also addressed the quarterback position, bringing in Jason Campbell and Brian Hoyer. Neither Campbell nor Hoyer is expected to emerge from training camp as the starter. That designation belongs to Brandon Weeden.

Weeden had a difficult rookie season in 2012, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns.

Former Eagles quarterback and current ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski is among those who believe Weeden will improve upon his rookie season in 2013.

“There’s no question in my mind that his throwing skill set and [Norv] Turner’s quarterback-friendly system will mesh effectively,” he said, being quoted on Rotoworld.com after studying every one of Weeden’s throws from last season.

Weeden will be without his top wideout from last season, Josh Gordon, for the first two games of the season after Gordon violated the NFL’s substanc- abuse policy. The additions of Davone Bess and David Nelson should help minimize the effect Gordon’s suspension will have on the Browns' passing attack in 2013.

NFL story links

Brian Cushing believes Texans teammate J.J. Watt can be the best defensive player ever. (ESPN.com)

How will Ray Horton utilize all the linebackers at his disposal? (Factoryofsadness.com)

Looking at the NFL’s image problem in the wake of the Aaron Hernandez situation (USA Today.com)

Aaron Hernandez and his troubled past (WSJ.com)

Who will emerge out of training camp as the starting guards for the Browns? (DawgsByNature.com)

Former Browns quarterback Colt McCoy is settling in nicely in San Francisco (Dawgpounddaily.com)

- Compiled by Jacob Gries, Plain Dealer Reporter

Westlake resident to embark on local, national, international projects.

View full sizeTV is an attractive next step for Janice Moodie.LPGA 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- LPGA member and Westlake resident Janice Moodie, who competed in the Women's U.S. Open at the Sebonack Golf Club in Southhampton, N.Y. last weekend, will be involved in several local, national and interntional projects in the upcoming months.

1: Although you missed the cut in the Open with rounds of 84-79 witnesses said you missed just two fairways in your two rounds and your score was not indicative of how you played. Is that how you saw it?

A: That's probably true. I actually felt like I played better than my scores would suggest. As you know, the USGA plays with your mind in the Open. The golf course was very difficult.

2: We have heard you had dinner with Annika Sorenstam, Kelly Tilghman and Brandel Chamblee from the Golf Channel on Saturday. How was that?

A: It was very interesting. It gave me an opportunity to see all three of them in a light different from the general public. Brandel Chamblee was especially interesting. He can sound very aggressive on television but he is very different off the TV. Did you know he grew up in a non-golfing family? It was enlightening to hear what he had to say about that.

3: At this stage of your career and your age (40) are you thinking that you might have played in your last U.S. Open?

A: Not at all. As long as I feel I can compete and as long as I can qualify I will play. Playing in the Open is fun. Even though I missed the cut last week I had a great time.

4: What is on your immediate horizon? We understand your are involved in a variety of projects.

A: I am giving lessons to some of the women members at Avon Oaks, where I've been a member. I've also been named captain of the European team for the Junior Solheim Cup and I will work as a commentator for Sky Television for the regular Solheim Cup. I did television for the Solheim two years ago so, so hopefully, I am growing a little more comfortable with it. The events will be played back-to-back in Denver so I will be gone for about 10 days. And then there are my two boys, Craig (7) and Matt (2 1/2). I will be busy.

Aaron White among 12 players who will compete for Team USA, July 7-16 in Kazan, Russia.

Magnificat junior had six tournament wins before July 1.

View full sizeJunior Jillian Hollis of Rocky River has won five titles, tied for another and has one runner-up finish -- all since April.Special to The Plain Dealer

 CLEVELAND, Ohio - An argument could be made that only Inbee Park is having a better summer than Jillian Hollis.

Park, who won her sixth tournament of the season on Sunday in the Women's U.S. Open to put herself in position to win golf's Grand Slam, performs on a larger stage.

Hollis, of Rocky River, is having the best summer of any junior golfer in Northeast Ohio and probably beyond. The junior at Magnificat has won five outright titles, tied for another, has a runner-up finish in another and earned a spot as the first alternate for an event conducted by the USGA.

Hollis, 16, began her streak in April when she shots rounds of 73-75 in 34-degree weather to win a GolfWeek Junior Tour event at the Phoenix Golf Links near Columbus. 

Later that month she was the medalist in a qualifying tournament for the prestigious Scotty Robertson Memorial when she shot 74. In early May she won another GolfWeek Junior event, this time with two rounds of 75 at Windmill Lakes, and she followed that with a seven-stroke victory in another national event, the Peggy Kirk Bell Invitational in Salisbury, N.C., with rounds of 73-70-70.

"That was an important event for me," said Hollis, the daughter of Michael and Sharon. "All spring I had been trying to string three good rounds together and I was able to do that. It felt good that I was able to finish with two 70s."

Hollis added a win in the rain-shortened Hudson Invitational (75-70) and finished second by one stroke in the Northern Ohio Junior PGA sectional qualifier at Shady Hollow in Canton. 

She survived an eight-hole playoff to become the first alternate for the USGA Junior Girls tournament and last week won the Trusted Choice Big "I" tournament at Highland Meadows near Toledo, site of the Jamie Farr Classic in two weeks. That qualified her for the Big "I" National Championship, to be played Aug. 5-8 at the Country Club of North Carolina in Pinehurst.

Some players improve naturally through maturity and experience. That wasn't necessarily the case for Hollis.

"I realized last spring that golf was something I really wanted to do," she said. "So, I made a determined effort to improve and decided to really go after it. I have worked hard on all aspects of my game. It's satisfying to see my work starting to pay off."

Hollis credits her mother, and personal coach Bob Bourne, one of 11 Master teaching professionals in the Northern Ohio PGA, with her steady progress.

"Bob is the best," she said. "He has helped me with the mental side of the game as much as he's helped with my swing. Any time I have an issue he makes room for me. He's always there. My mom, well, she's been there from the very beginning. Her knowledge is incredible."

Golf is in Hollis's blood. Her grandfather, the late Paul Minnich, was an outstanding amateur in the area and her mother, a graduate of Bay, played three seasons at North Carolina State and another at Ohio State. N.C. State was ranked 17th in the country when the school discontinued the program, prompting a transfer to OSU. She remains a solid amateur.

Titleist is titlist: At least at the Ohio Open. A survey of the 264 players in the field at Westfield on Monday showed an overwhelming number use Titleist equipment and Footjoy shoes and gloves. Titleist led in balls (184 of 264), drivers (90), utility clubs (85), irons (95), putters (99), and wedges (132).  Ninety-eight players wore Footjoy gloves and 106 wore Footjoy shoes. More players (99) used TaylorMade fairway clubs and 81 players used Ping bags. TaylorMade was the runner-up in five of the categories -- balls (41), drivers (89), utility clubs (63), irons (55) and wedges (89).

Hail to the chiefs: Officials of the biennial President's Cup, which will be played at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin Oct. 1-6, are anticipating a sell-out. A message on the event's website said only 7,000 tickets remain for the event that pits 12 players from the United States against a 12-player International team from all over the world, excluding Europe. 

Currently on sale are weekly tickets, available for $210 for grounds access only, or $360 for Captains' Club access. Children 12-and-under will be admitted free (grounds access only) with a ticketed adult. Tickets are available via www.presidentscup.com or by calling 888-401-8000. Out of towners will catch a break regarding hotel space. Ohio State plays at Northwestern on Oct. 5.

Sadly: Condolences to the family and friends of Sue Davies, the former executive secretary of the Northern Ohio PGA. Davies passed away last week following an extended battle with cancer. Davies, 63, served the NOPGA faithfully from 1984 to 1999. A resident of Kirtland, she is survived by William, her husband of 34 years, and two children. Burial is Wednesday at Kirtland North Cemetery.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: trogers@plaind.com, 216-999-5169

On Twitter: @TimRogersCLE

Clarett helped lead Ohio State to the 2002 national championship and has been working hard to get things right after some trouble-filled years. He'd like to make the U.S. rugby team for the 2016 Olympics.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Maurice Clarett achieved phenomenal though short-lived success as an Ohio State running back before years of troubles and controversies.

Now, Clarett is working hard to restore his reputation and to again utilize his athletic talents. He's playing for Tiger Rugby, the rugby development program for the selection of players to the team that will represent the United States in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Clarett, after a brilliant career at Warren Harding High School, helped Ohio State to the national championship in 2002 as a freshman, rushing for 1,237 yards and scoring 18 touchdowns for the 14-0 Buckeyes.

Clarett scored the winning touchdown on a 5-yard run in the second overtime of Ohio State's 31-24 national championship game win over Miami (Fla.) in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 3, 2003.

Clarett would never again play for the Buckeyes, though, as he became embroiled in legal problems. Now, though, for some time Clarett has been trying to get things right.

Plain Dealer Ohio State beat writer Doug Lesmerises wrote about Clarett and his journey last Nov. 21, as Clarett was looking ahead to that week's reunion of the Buckeyes' 2002 national championship team.

Video: Former Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett talks with CineSport about his journey back from troubled times, about appreciating the little things and about his hopes to achieve success as a rugby player:

See the latest list of golf outings across the region.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here is the latest set of golf listings for Northeast Ohio. To submit items for the listings send an e-mail to golf@plaind.com or fax to 216-999-6276. Listings are free.

Joshua Glatz golf outing will be held July 19 at Cherokee Hills G.C. Levels of donations and marketing opportunities can be viewed at www.jggolf.snappages.com. Email joshuaggolf@gmail.com or hamadsharon@yahoo.com.

OFSC Burn Invitational will be hosted by the Ohio Fire Safety Coalition on July 15 at Glenmoor C.C. Visit www.ohiofsc.org.

Hungarian Cultural Garden of Cleveland will host an outing on Aug. 7 at Shaker Heights C.C. A shotgun start begins at 1 p.m. Registration deadline is Aug. 1. Call Mark Yonke at 440-610-7401 or Allen Waddle at 330-656-2218.

Rita Matteo golf outing will be held Aug. 11. Visit www.ritamatteo.org.

Joi Renee Smith golf outing will be held Aug. 16 at Briardale Greens G.C. All proceeds will be donated to the Joi Renee Smith Memorial Scholarship Foundation. Smith was a track athlete at Collinwood and Michigan. The event begins at 9 a.m. Call 216-396-1744 or 216-702-1711.

Summer Classic golf outing will be hosted by the University of Akron men’s basketball team at the Quarry G.C. on Aug. 19. The event will include two flights, with the first set for a shotgun start at 7:45 a.m. and an afternoon flight at 2 p.m. Visit www.zips.com/zfund/events or call 330-972-7117.

Easter Seals golf outing will be held Aug. 26 at Red Tail G.C. with a shotgun start at noon. Visit www.noh.easterseals.com or call 440-324-6600 ext. 12.

For listings of various golf outings in Ohio visit www.ohiogolfoutings.com

Clarifying the credit rating for Haslam's troubled company, which remains an issue for Browns fans.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — When you mess up, you have to fess up.

That’s what I need to do when it comes to my Monday column about Jimmy Haslam and Pilot Flying J. In that story, I wrote that his company’s credit rating had been “downgraded.”

That’s wrong. I used the Wall Street Journal story on Haslam as a source, and I really didn’t convey what the newspaper stated.

Here’s the deal: The Wall Street Journal said that the credit ratings for Pilot Flying J have been put on a negative watch for possible downgrade by Moody’s Investor Services and Standard & Poor’s Corp.

That is different and not as severe as a downgrade. In other words, Moody’s and Standard & Poor are concerned about how the company is doing — primarily because of Haslam’s legal troubles. But they have not yet issued a downgrade.

Standard & Poors wrote they “revised the outlook to negative. ... We affirmed our ratings on the company, including the “BB” corporate credit rating. The negative outlook reflects our expectation that the uncertainty and possible eventual negative outcomes around the U.S. government investigation could lead to higher than assumed uses of cash.

“Also, Pilot’s liquidity position is particularly sensitive to vendor terms and conditions and unfavorable developments in the investigation could induce vendors to tighten payment terms.”

So that’s the deal.

Frankly, there are warning signs in those statements, but no downgrade.

About the debt

I also wrote about Haslam’s company having $4 billion in debt. It doubled since 2010, partly so he could buy the Browns for $1 billion. I’ve been in contact with some people who live in the high finance corporate world. I asked why the NFL would approve his purchase of the Browns with the $4 billion in debt.

The experts didn’t want to be named — and they are not affiliated with Pilot Flying J. They explained that Pilot Flying J issued bonds to cover the debt, and those bonds come due between 2016-19. In the Wall Street Journal story, Haslam said he anticipated being able to pay off the bonds when they are due.

I still wondered why the NFL wasn’t bothered by the $4 billion in debt. The experts said because Pilot Flying J dominates the truck stop business — about 550 locations — it generates a lot of cash. In 2011, Forbes reported that Haslam’s company had $29.3 billion in revenue. It also rated Pilot Flying J as the sixth-largest privately held company in America.

Between the revenue and the assets such as all the truck stops, the experts told me that $4 billion in debt is not extreme.

We don’t know about Pilot Flying J’s profits, because it’s a private company — not traded on a stock exchange. That’s good news for Haslam. If his company sold stock, the prices almost certainly would have taken a huge drop after the April 15th FBI raid.

About the FBI raid

As one expert told me, “The real issue is criminal. Will he be charged? How will the negative publicity impact his business?”

That is my concern about the debt.

Before the FBI raid, when all was well with Flying J, the debt was not a major issue. But Haslam operates in a very competitive business, and the profit margins are small. That’s why you have to sell a lot of fuel to make money. His competitors are romancing Haslam’s big customers.

Small profit margins may be why some sales people cut corners on rebates to trucking companies. And that did happen, as five former employees have pleaded guilty to various charges having to do with defrauding trucking companies on their rebate checks.

Haslam has vehemently denied any knowledge of these illegal practices.

There also are 15 trucking companies suing Pilot Flying J for fraud having to do with the rebates.

“They may be able to roll all of those into one class action suit and pay off the damages over a long period of time,” said an expert. “If Haslam stays out of criminal trouble, he should be able to handle the civil suits.”

But here is the new owner of a beleaguered football franchise dealing with an FBI investigation, civil law suits and $4 billion in debt. He also is battling to save his business and keep disgruntled customers buying his fuel.

The issues are much deeper than his credit rating.

He does have veteran NFL executive Joe Banner to run the team’s daily operations, and that helps. Banner has hired a strong coaching staff, especially the experienced coordinators to help rookie head coach Rob Chudzinski.

In the short term, Haslam’s problems have no impact on the football team. But long term, who knows?

Three golfers - John Hahn, Ross Beal and Tim Ailes - had a three-stroke lead in the Minute Men Ohio Open at the end of play Tuesday. The final round begins at 11:20 a.m. Wednesday at Westfield Country Club.

John Hahn lines up his tee shot on the eighth hole during the first round of the U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club on June 13. Hahn, a Kent State graduate, is part of a three-way tie for lead entering Wednesday'€™s final round of the Ohio Open at Westfield Center. Julio Cortez, Associated Press

WESTFIELD CENTER, Ohio -- One of the largest fields in tournament history has been reduced to a three-horse race.

Kent's John Hahn, Uniontown's Ross Beal and Lewis Center's Tim Ailes are tied for first place and will take a 3-shot lead over their closest pursuer today when the final round of the 90th annual Minute Men Ohio Open is played on the South Course of Westfield Country Club.

The original field of 264 players was reduced to the low 60 scores and ties -- a total of 70 players -- when the rain-delayed first round and the second round were completed Tuesday under ideal conditions.

Hahn, Beal and Ailes are on top of the leaderboard at 12-under 130 and have a 3-shot lead over Upper Arlington's Colin Biles and a four-shot bulge over Westfield member and amatuer Bob Henighan and Canton Brookside pro Gary Robison, the Northern Ohio PGA's reigning senior player of the year who won this title in 1986.

Hahn, 24, is fresh off his first appearance in the U.S. Open. He opened play on the par-70 South Course on Monday, shooting a six-under 64 highlighted by a 30 on the back nine. He tacked on a six-under 66 on the North Course, where par is 72, on Tuesday. He had 15 birdies and three bogeys over 36 holes.

He said winning the Ohio Open would be another step in his progress as a professional.

"It would mean a lot to win," he said. "You look at the names of the players who have won this, guys like Byron Nelson, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf. I respect those names."

Beal, who played at Walsh Jesuit and Youngstown State, has been fighting injuries to his rib and chest muscles since turning professional 18 months ago. At 6-4 and 200 pounds he has always been long off the tee and he showed that in his first round when he drove the 321-yard first hole and made an 8-foot putt for eagle. Not a bad way to get your tournament underway. He had identical rounds of 65 with 13 birdies.

Beal said a win would do wonders for his confidence.

"I haven't won anything significant, probably since 2008, so it's been a long time," he said. "I am happy to be in the hunt with the opportunity to win. That's been my plan."

Ailes, 40, is a former Toledo Open champion and said he has not played in the Ohio Open for at least six years. The layoff didn't seem to bother him as he put together rounds of 64-66. Like Hahn, Ailes, a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan and a pro since 1999, had 15 birdies and three bogeys.

Both courses were in superb shape -- albeit somewhat soft -- despite the heavy rains that fell Monday and similar conditions are expected today. That means the players will take aim directly at the pins in today's final round, scheduled to start at 7:30 a.m., with the leaders going off at 11:20 a.m.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter:

trogers@plaind.com, 216-999-5169

On Twitter: @TimRogersCLE

Collison is a proven player. If Cavs sign Earl Clark, he'd join the group at power forward. J.J. Redick, Eric Bledsoe and Caron Butler are reportedly traded. Pistons would like to acquire Rajon Rondo. Kevin Martin and Minnesota agree on deal. And, more NBA free agency and trade stories.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers could use a veteran point guard to back up Kyrie Irving.

Shaun Livingston, continuing his comeback from a devastating knee injury several years ago, spent most of last season with the Cavs and often looked like not only a fine off-the-bench play-maker, but also a player who could fill in as a part-time starter if necessary.

Livingston, though, is an unrestricted free agent, and though another alliance with the Cavs isn't out of the question, he's also drawing interest from other teams -- such as the Brooklyn Nets, as Tim Bontemps writes for the New York Post.

Several reports have mentioned that the Cavaliers have an interest in Darren Collison, who played for the Dallas Mavericks last season. Collison, in his four-year NBA career, has often started and always played significant minutes. His career per-game averages are 12.1 points and 5.2 assists in 29.5 minutes, while shooting 46 percent from the field -- including 36 percent on 3-pointers -- and 86 percent at the foul line.

Brendan Bowers writes for Stepien Rules that Collison has a great attitude that rubs off on his teammates and refers to coach Frank Vogel and center Roy Hibbert of the Indiana Pacers, for whom Collison played two seasons:

.....his commitment to team is real and contagious.

I know people attach those type of taglines to guys frivolously, but the way people like Frank Vogel and Roy Hibbert spoke about Collison convinced me those intangibles are real in his case. Collison is a student of the game who spends his free time watching film, which is something I'm sure attracted him to Mike Brown and the Cavs.

Though he's struggled some over the last two seasons, he's still a capable starter in this league if needed. At the same time, however, he's also a guy who'd be willing to support Irving in his continued to development and I'd be excited to see Collison land in Cleveland when the free agent dusts eventually settles.

They already have three on their roster, including first overall draft pick Anthony Bennett of UNLV.

Most observers are trying to figure out where Bennett will get his minutes, with the 6-foot-9, 227-pound Tristan Thompson already ahead of him on the depth chart. Cavs general manager Chris Grant said on draft night Bennett is primarily a ‘4,' even though he might be able to play a few minutes at small forward.

Journeyman Kevin Jones is still hanging around. He has a league-minimum contract for next year, but it's not guaranteed.

The 6-11 Anderson Varejao, who is expected to start at center under Coach Mike Brown, might be better suited to play power forward in a perfect world.

Sources say a three-team deal between the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks has been reached. The Clippers will get J.J. Redick from the Bucks and guard Jared Dudley from the Suns. The Suns get point guard Eric Bledsoe and small forward Caron Butler from the Clippers. The Bucks – who facilitated the deal with a sign-and-trade of Redick – get two second-round draft picks. (By Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo! Sports)

The Detroit Pistons would like to trade for Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo, and the Indiana Pacers would trade small forward Danny Granger. (By Ken Berger, CBSSports.com)

The Pacers and David West agree to the framework of a deal, keeping the fine power forward in Indiana. (By Michael Pointer, Indianapolis Star)

High-scoring guard Kevin Martin leaves the Oklahoma City Thunder to sign with the Minnesota Timberwolves, who also keep small forward Chase Budinger. (By Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo! Sports)

Five teams, including the Cavaliers, appear to have the most mutual interest with center Greg Oden. (By Jeff Goodman, ESPN.com)

Forward Josh Smith, point guard Jeremy Lin and guard-forward Andre Iguodala have the attention of the Detroit Pistons. (By Ashley Dunkak, CBS Detroit)

Center Dwight Howard takes over the free agency doings. (By Sam Amick, USA Today)

"Dwight Howard is leaving California for a few days to mull his free agency choice, league sources tell Y! Sports." -- Yahoo Sports! Adrian Wojnarowski on Twitter.com about Howard, who is reportedly being pursued by the team he played for last season -- the Los Angeles Lakers -- and by the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors.

Center Tiago Splitter will get a four-year contract and stay with the San Antonio Spurs. (By Royce Young, CBSSports.com)

Forward Martell Webster will sign a four-year contract to stay with the Washington Wizards. (WJLA.com)

Forward-center Andray Blatche will stay with the Brooklyn Nets. (USA Today/Associated Press)

The Chicago Bulls will waive veteran small forward Richard Hamilton, according to Ken Berger, on Twitter for CBSSports.com. (By Tim Polzer, SI.com)

Twins manager says Indians' Yan Gomes faces "payback" for home plate play last month.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Seen and heard at Kauffman Stadium before Tuesday’s series opener.

Clubhouse confidential: Twins manager Ron Gardenhire is upset at Tribe catcher Yan Gomes for blocking the plate without the ball on June 23 at Progressive Field.

Ryan Doumit scored on the play in the ninth inning, but sprained his right ankle in the process. Gardenhire, during his radio show Sunday on 1500 ESPN, said Gomes tripped Doumit and that the Twins would be looking for “payback.”

Said Gardenhire, “In that play, the plate is open, the ball wasn’t going to be there and the next thing you know [Gomes] sticks his leg out. [That] is not a good thing in baseball. It’s kind of one of those unwritten rules that blocking the plate without the ball or trying to trip someone. ... [You look for] payback.”

The Twins and Indians next meet in a three-game series on July 19 at Target Field.

The future: Baseball America is reporting that the Indians signed 16-year-old Dominican outfielder Junior Soto for $600,000 Tuesday, the first day that international free agents can sign contracts. Soto, 6-2, 190 pounds, reportedly has good right-handed power.

Stat of the day: The Indians entered Tuesday’s game against the Royals tied for first in the AL with 63 steals. 