UPDATED: The Indians, on the way to one of their worst performances of the season, scored five runs in the eighth inning to beat Kansas City and avoid a sweep by the Royals.

View full sizeJohn Sleezer / Kansas City Star via MCTAsdrubal Cabrera ties the game in the eighth inning Thursday in Kansas City, Mo., with a sacrifice fly that scores Jason Donald.

Updated at 12:40 a.m.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Next time manager Manny Acta calls a team meeting, maybe he should wait until after the game.

Acta talked to his ballclub Thursday afternoon. They'd lost nine of their previous 12 games and he was trying to get them turned around.

The Indians, with Acta's words ringing in their ears, went out and for seven innings played one of their worst games of the season. Why the Royals weren't leading, 10-0, is their own fault because the Indians certainly gave them enough opportunities as they made four of a season-high five errors.

Maybe it just took time for Acta's words to sink in because in the eighth inning the Indians scored five runs to come from behind and beat Kansas City, 7-3, at Kauffman Stadium. The Indians avoided getting swept in Kansas City for the first time since May 2006 with the victory.

"About the seventh inning that's what I was thinking about," Acta said. "We made those errors. We made some blunders running the bases. I was thinking, 'Bad meeting, bad meeting.' But it turned out to be a good meeting at the end."

Royals pitcher Kyle Davies entered the eighth with a 3-0 lead and in command. The Indians were in disarray.

Trevor Crowe started the rally with a one-out single. He took second on a wild pitch and scored on Matt LaPorta's single after a 13-pitch at-bat against Davies. It was LaPorta's second hit in his past 29 at-bats.

"That was a great at-bat," Acta said. "It's the kind of at-bat that gets everybody fired up ... I think it took a lot out of Davies."

Jason Donald singled as Blake Wood (1-3) relieved. Shelley Duncan followed with his sixth pinch hit of the season, a bloop single to right to score LaPorta and put Donald on third. Michael Brantley walked to load the bases and bring Asdrubal Cabrera to the plate.

Cabrera fouled off two pitches with a full count and sent a line-drive sacrifice fly to deep center field to tie the score. Shin-Soo Choo put the Indians ahead, 4-3, with a single to right to bring Dusty Hughes into the game to face Travis Hafner. Hafner beat out a single to the hole at short as Brantley scored to make it 5-3.

The Indians added two more runs in the ninth on Brantley's ground-out and Cabrera's double. Brantley never left the box after making contact because he twisted his left ankle. He was helped off the field. X-rays on the ankle were negative. He's had injury problems over the past three years with the same ankle.

The win went to Rafael Perez (4-0). Chris Perez recorded the last four outs for his 15th save. It was the second time he's saved a game this season where he's pitched more than one inning.

"The bullpen was tremendous," Acta said.

The Indians made for errors and had a runner thrown out at every base through the first seven innings. Third baseman Jayson Nix made two of errors. Andy Marte, inserted for defense in the eighth, made it a three-error night for Tribe third-sackers.

It was the first time since July 12, 1996, that the Indians have won a game while making five errors.

LaPorta and Mitch Talbot accounted for the other two errors. It was a hit-the-wall game for LaPorta.

His bases-loaded throw to the backstop in the fourth gave the Royals a 1-0 lead. His brain cramp in the seventh -- he fielded a ground ball and stepped on first thinking it was the third out -- didn't show up in the box score as an error, but all one had to do was look at Cabrera's face as he waited in vain for LaPorta's throw to second to complete a double play to know that it was not well-received.

In the fifth, Talbot victimized himself. After Chris Getz started the inning with a single, Gregor Blanco dragged a bunt single down the first-base line. Talbot grabbed the ball, but made a wild throw to first to put Getz on third and Blanco on second.

Talbot struck out Jason Kendall and intentionally walked Billy Butler to load the bases. He retired Kila Ka'aihue on a pop-up to second, but Wilson Betemit blooped a two-run single into left field for a 3-0 lead.

"It was kind of crazy how we turned it around," Talbot said, "but through it all we gave up only three runs."

To reach this Plain Dealer Reporter: phoynes@plaind.com, 216-999-5158

Gerard shoots a 2-under 69 in the final round at Kahkwa Club in Erie, Pa. Also, Corey Weckerling of Oakwood ties for second at the AccuSport Championships in Clemmons, N.C.

However, he will begin his season as a national champion.

Gerard put the finishing touches on three days of under-par golf when he shot a 2-under 69 on Thursday to win the Erie Junior Golf Classic, a national event conducted by the American Junior Golf Association, at the Kahkwa Club in Erie, Pa.

Gerard, of Rocky River, finished the 54-holes at 7-under 206 to win by three shots over Ryan Cole, of Mount Airy, Md., and Meechai Padungsiriseth, of Bradenton, Fla. Nick Palladino, a recent Mayfield graduate who will attend the University of Rochester, finished in a tie for sixth place at 213.

Gerard, who sat out the start of the St. Ignatius season in order to play in this event, had five birdies and three bogeys. The turning point came on the 214-yard 15th hole. Tied with two others on the tee, he struck a 4-iron shot that stopped two feet from the hole for a birdie. The other players both made bogey.

"I really wanted to play in this event, but now I am ready to start the high school season. This gives me a little adrenaline," Gerard said.

Weckerling ties for second: Corey Weckerling of Oakwood, Ohio, tied for second at 2-over 208 at the AccuSport Championship in Clemmons, N.C. Conducted by the American Junior Golf Association, the 53-hole stroke play event featured 70 boys and 20 girls, ages 12-18, from 16 states, South Africa and Italy. Weckerling carded rounds of 70, 70, 68.

McCoy and Bradford share similar stories in high school and college, but in the NFL, Bradford is the top overall pick expected to open the season as a starter, while McCoy is a third-round pick being slowly groomed by the Browns.

View full sizeChuck Crow / The Plain DealerBrowns rookie and former Texas Longhorns QB Colt McCoy, above, and Rams rookie and former Oklahoma Sooners QB Sam Bradford became friends during their college careers and will share the field Saturday at Cleveland Browns Stadium.

BEREA, Ohio — Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners aren't supposed to get along, but Colt McCoy and Sam Bradford, who arrives Saturday with the St. Louis Rams, are good friends.

They met three times on the field -- McCoy winning twice -- but got to know each other off camera at the 2008 Heisman Trophy ceremony. Bradford won it. They've kept in touch ever since.

"We both kind of have the same story," McCoy said. "He's from a smaller school in Oklahoma City. Played all sports. I did the same thing [in Texas]. We weren't highly recruited coming out of high school. We went to our in-state schools. Kind of a cool story."

The NFL chapters of their stories have different subplots, of course. Bradford was the No. 1 pick of the 2010 draft and signed with St. Louis for $50 million guaranteed. McCoy, the 85th overall pick, got slightly more than $1 million in guarantees.

Bradford is expected to play after journeyman A.J. Feeley on Saturday, but everybody in St. Louis expects him to open the season as the team's starting quarterback. McCoy is competing with Brett Ratliff for the Browns' No. 3 job.

"I think we're all in different situations," McCoy said. "He's the first pick in the draft. He's getting paid a lot of money and he's going to have to go out there and play. We all want to play. He gets to.

"It'll be fun to watch him this weekend, and I'll be pulling for him all year. I know it's probably going to be tough. Anytime you have a rookie quarterback starting, playing, it'll be tough. There's a lot of things you have to learn, a lot of respect you have to earn from teammates. I'm definitely pulling for him and hoping for the best."

Window of opportunity: Scott Kooistra's signing in December was one of those transactions that hardly gets noticed during a losing season. Now it looks like a deft pickup.

Kooistra, a backup lineman in Cincinnati for seven seasons, is a life preserver for an area of the line drowning in camp injuries. He'll probably start at right tackle Saturday against St. Louis.

The Browns have been without their top two right guards and tackles all week. Rookie Shawn Lauvao has been excused for personal reasons, Floyd Womack is out with a knee issue, Tony Pashos has missed substantial time with a shoulder injury and John St. Clair missed most of the week with an undisclosed injury. Pashos and St. Clair returned for Thursday's evening practice.

Kooistra, who has one NFL start at left guard, said he's versatile enough to play every position but center. He played left tackle with the second unit in the Green Bay game.

"If you get the opportunity to go in and show them you can handle the responsibility of starting, that's what you do," Kooistra said. "I'm just looking to show I can compete and get the job done."

On Lauvao: Lauvao is still out with an excused absence. Coach Eric Mangini originally said he expected Lauvao back from his home in Hawaii by early next week. But Thursday he said: "In terms of schedule, it's hard to explain without explaining it. I'm not sure where it's going to go right now. We just have to see. I wish I could tell you more, I just really can't."

Lauvao is now the projected starter at right guard because of Womack's injury. Lauvao was replaced this week by Billy Yates.

Brownie points: Mangini said he expected his starters to play through the first half against the Rams. Quarterback Seneca Wallace will see some time with the No. 1 offense, the coach said. . . . GM Tom Heckert insisted in an appearance on SportsTimeOhio that rookie back Montario Hardesty has not suffered a setback in his recovery from a pre-camp knee injury. Heckert and Mangini are hopeful Hardesty will join the team in practice for the first time next week. . . . Thursday marked the end of two-a-day practices and also the end of practices open to the public, but Mangini said the official end of training camp is "near" but not yet at hand. Mangini also thanked the fans for their "fantastic" attendance and support at camp.

Wash out your mouth: The salty language Jets coach Rex Ryan uses in episodes of HBO's "Hard Knocks" prompted a phone call from Ryan's mother and rebuke by former Colts coach Tony Dungy.

Mangini said: "My mom would probably call me, too, if she heard some of the things that were said. I don't think I'm in a position to judge anybody else's language."

Video: Tony Grossi and Mary Kay Cabot on the final day of training camp

While Acta knows he has a young ballclub, he says the team needs to play better than it has during its recent struggles.

View full sizeThomas Ondrey / The Plain DealerIndians manager Manny Acta felt it was necessary to call a meeting for his team, which has lost nine of its past 12 games heading into Thursday night's game in Kansas City, Mo.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Manager Manny Acta held a team meeting before Thursday's game. The Indians had lost nine of their past 12 games so it made sense.

"I was taking the temperature of the ballclub," Acta said. "I wanted to let the kids know we have a month and a half to play and we're going through a rough stretch right now.

"Yes, we're young, but I have the right to tell them I'm not happy with the way we have played over the last 12 games. We can't sit here and say we're a better ballclub without the guys who have left -- Carlos Santana, Austin Kearns, Jhonny Peralta, Jake Westbrook and Kerry Wood. But still we have to get out there and play and compete.

"I told them to take advantage of this opportunity because we're not going to be rebuilding forever."

Santana, the Indians' cleanup hitter, is out for the season following surgery on his left knee. Kearns, Peralta, Westbrook and Wood were traded last month.

"The whole meeting was about making progress," Acta said. "For us that's the challenge. Once the season is over only eight teams go to the playoffs, 22 will go home. If we're going home, we want to go home being better as a team and as individuals."

Said catcher Chris Gimenez: "The meeting wasn't about effort. Manny knows we're giving effort. It's just that sometimes the results aren't what we strive for. The fact that we're young isn't an excuse."

Rocked: Gimenez said his shoulders and back were sore after his home plate collision Wednesday with Kansas City's Mitch Maier.

"It's funny, I never played football," Gimenez said. "My dad never really wanted me to because he was afraid I'd get hurt. I called my mom this morning and told her now I know what it's like to get smacked around on a football field."

Did father know best?

"He probably made a good life decision right there," Gimenez said with a laugh.

Maier knocked Gimenez down on the play, but Gimenez held Shin-Soo Choo's throw from right field to complete the double play in the second inning.

"My parents saw the play on TV," Gimenez said. "I got a couple of text messages from friends. One of them said, 'That's what happens when you stand on the tracks.' "

On display: Right-hander Jason Knapp, 19, will start for Class A Lake County tonight after missing most of the season recovering from last year's right shoulder surgery. Knapp was acquired from the Phillies last year in the Cliff Lee deal and the Indians consider him a key part to the deal.

Knapp has made five starts for the Indians' Arizona Rookie League club. He's 0-2 with a 1.46 ERA. Left-handers hit .059 (1-for-17) against him, while righties hit .160 (4-for-25).

The 6-5, 225-pound right-hander struck out 18, walked four and allowed two earned runs on five hits in 121/3 innings. The opposition hit .119 against him.

"He was throwing in the high 90s -- from 96 mph to 98 mph," said Ross Atkins, Indians director of player development. "He showed a good breaking ball and a changeup. He overwhelmed that league."

Knapp, 20 on Aug. 31, is expected to make four to six starts for Lake County and then go to the Arizona Instructional League.

"His commitment and worth ethic during his rehab blew us away," Atkins said. "He showed the discipline of a big-leaguer, far beyond his chronological years.

"Emotionally and physically, during the rehab, he showed great maturity."

Quick hits: Aaron Laffey allowed one run on a solo homer Thursday at Lake County as he continued his rehab from a tired left shoulder. His next appearance is scheduled for Saturday at Class AA Akron. . . . Today is the deadline for the Indians to acquire a player from the Yankees to complete the Kearns deal. Look for it to be a minor-league pitcher. . . . It sounds like Carlos Carrasco won't be joining the Indians until the roster expands in September. . . . Acta said he could go with a straight six-man rotation in September to make sure no one is over pitched.

Dwyane Wade did what any good teammate would do when he stood up for LeBron James in a recent radio interview. Wade was in Chicago recently and in his interview with WSCR, Wade said he was surprised by the backlash LeBron has received since signing with the Miami Heat. "With the backlash that LeBron is receiving from this, it...

APLeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

Dwyane Wade did what any good teammate would do when he stood up for LeBron James in a recent radio interview.

Wade was in Chicago recently and in his interview with WSCR, Wade said he was surprised by the backlash LeBron has received since signing with the Miami Heat.

"With the backlash that LeBron is receiving from this, it is fine. I think he has handled this very well. I think he understands that he made a decision that was best for LeBron James and for the James' family. At the end of the day that is what is important to him. It is unfortunate that people can come out and say the things they have said about him but if he shoots back and says anything he might get fined or it is going to be looking like the worst thing ever. I think he has been doing a good job of continuing to focus on his life and his family and move on from. He just wants to play basketball and he wants to put himself in a position to win championships and he has done it."

Wade, James and Chris Bosh all signed with the Heat to form a "super team" of sorts. Despite several reports, Wade says the trio superstars coming together was not planned before it all came together this summer when Pat Riley presented it.

"You never thought that you could bring three players together at all – thought maybe two just like everybody else, but not three. It was something that at the end of the day we couldn't pass up on because it was a once in a life opportunity and there was not many opportunities and times where it could happen."

Have you wanted to check out the Cleveland Indians’ Social Media Deck this summer?  And, do you tweet?  If so, now is your chance to attend cleveland.com Day at the Cleveland Indians Social Deck. Catch the Tribe take on the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday, September 1 with cleveland.com (@denisep, @dan_labbe and @dawgpndgirl)!.  In the spirit of social media,...

View full sizewaitingfornextyear.comJoin us for an afternoon Tribe game on the Tribe Social Deck!

Have you wanted to check out the Cleveland Indians’ Social Media Deck this summer?  And, do you tweet?  If so, now is your chance to attend cleveland.com Day at the Cleveland Indians Social Deck. Catch the Tribe take on the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday, September 1 with cleveland.com (@denisep, @dan_labbe and @dawgpndgirl)!. 

In the spirit of social media, we want to hear why you want to sit with us at the Social Deck in 140 characters or less.  

Post a comment below and please include your Twitter handle at the end of your comment. 

We will randomly select 7 lucky guests to join us on Wednesday, August 25.  Keep in mind that the game is at 12:05.  Have fun and good luck! 

If you have any questions, email Alana Munro.

Defensive lineman Robaire Smith has take on the roll as the elder statesman. Smith will enter his 11th season this fall, and he has the most seniority among the Browns' defensive linemen. Ohio.com reporter Nate Ulrich writes how Smith has been there for the younger players, but Smith (and Shaun Rogers) could miss action due to suspension as a result of gun...

Joshua Gunter/The Plain DealerRobaire Smith

Defensive lineman Robaire Smith has take on the roll as the elder statesman. Smith will enter his 11th season this fall, and he has the most seniority among the Browns' defensive linemen.

Ohio.com reporter Nate Ulrich writes how Smith has been there for the younger players, but Smith (and Shaun Rogers) could miss action due to suspension as a result of gun charges. Smith and Rogers, in separate incidents, were arrested in November and April, respectively, for toting a gun in a carry-on bag at an airport.

The status of both players remains one of the most important mysteries surrounding Browns training camp. When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell visited the team's headquarters earlier this month, he said, ''Both cases are still under review from our staff.''

Rogers has not talked to reporters this summer. Smith has, but he won't say much about playing the waiting game.

''Right now, it's not in our hands,'' Smith said after the Browns practiced Thursday morning. ''But I don't really want to comment about the situation or nothing. I'm just gonna leave it at that.''

Blocking tight end

Jeff Schudel of The News-Herald writes about tight end Robert Royal, and how running back Jerome Harrison is pleased with his blocking ability.

Royal is so good that running back Jerome Harrison called him late in the night shortly after Harrison rushed for a franchise-high 286 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs.

"I called Rob and had to thank him for the way he blocked that day," Harrison said after the morning practice Thursday, pausing on his way to the locker room when he saw Royal being interviewed. "Then I had to call him every week about two or three in the morning after that."

Royal remembers exactly what he told Harrison.

"It was good to finally hear some inspiring words for the rough season I had," Royal smiled and said as Harrison walked away. "It was kind of touching. I told him if he made me cry like that in front of my girl at the time I'd hurt him."

Second time around

First-year cornerback Joe Haden admitted he was nervous last week at Green Bay. He hopes to be up to speed from start to finish this weekend against St. Louis. Haden's confident he can catch on quickly Saturday night, writes Ohio.com's Nate Ulrich.

''Coach said he just wants us to improve from each preseason game, so I'm just [going to] try to get into a groove a little earlier than I did when we played the Packers,'' Haden said. ''[I want to] get comfortable, knock down some passes and intercept some passes early.''

 

Update The Cleveland Browns finished the 2009 season strong, and they made enough improvements during the offseason that they will surely be better than last season's 5-11 finish. One out of their five victories came within the division last season, so how will the Browns finish in the division this coming season? The Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens...

Joshua Gunter, The Plain DealerEric Mangini

Update

The Cleveland Browns finished the 2009 season strong, and they made enough improvements during the offseason that they will surely be better than last season's 5-11 finish.

One out of their five victories came within the division last season, so how will the Browns finish in the division this coming season? The Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens are certainly the favorites. The Pittsburgh Steelers will start the first few games of the season without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, but will the Steelers remain a threat?

The Ohio State Buckeyes are 13 days away from their season opener against Marshall at Ohio Stadium. Many questions surround the Buckeyes, and every team, coming into the season. Associated Press reporter Rusty Miller gives us his 10 questions for the Buckeyes this season. Here are a few: 1) How much depends on QB Terrelle Pryor? This is the...

AP photoOhio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor

The Ohio State Buckeyes are 13 days away from their season opener against Marshall at Ohio Stadium.

Many questions surround the Buckeyes, and every team, coming into the season. Associated Press reporter Rusty Miller gives us his 10 questions for the Buckeyes this season.

Here are a few:

1) How much depends on QB Terrelle Pryor?

This is the same first question as a year ago here. And the answer is the same: Everything.

Pryor had a fine sophomore season in 2009, capped by being named offensive MVP of the Rose Bowl. But one bothersome fact: The Buckeyes might have been at their best when he took a secondary role. Remember, because of a knee injury he didn’t do a whole lot more than hand off and occasionally throw from the pocket over the last four regular-season games.

 
7) What motivates the Buckeyes?

Well, everyone thinks they’ll be good and the Big Ten has already anointed them as the team to beat. They’re also ranked No. 2 in the nation by most publications. Beyond that, Ohio State can become only the second team to win six straight Big Ten titles, matching the record set by the 1972-77 Buckeyes.

The string of titles provides incentive a couple of ways. First, Ohio State players don’t want to be the ones who let it end on their watch and, second, Big Ten teams will either be resigned to their fate or motivated to do something about it. Consider: Almost every player in the Big Ten has spent their career looking up the standings at Ohio State.

 

Tight end in play?

In recent years, the Ohio State offense has not had much use for its tight ends, with the exception of blocking and an occasional pass to catch. Columbus Dispatch reporter Tim May writes how in the past four seasons, tight ends have caught a total of 90 passes for the Buckeyes.

Despite that number, tight end Jake Stoneburner says he will catch plenty of balls this season.

Stoneburner and his coaches think he could present matchup problems for opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the field, what analysts call the potential of such a big man with decent receiver's speed and hands, could further an offense loaded with returning starters and led by quarterback Terrelle Pryor.

"I think it's going to happen this year," Stoneburner said. "I think with how many weapons we have on offense, we're not going to rely too much on one guy. With Terrelle throwing the ball, he'll have a lot of opportunities. And with me and him being pretty good friends, and with him having a lot of confidence in me, I think that'll help, too."

 

Buckeyes and Rams

The St. Louis Rams could now be considered the St. Louis Buckeyes because their trio of linebackers are former Ohio State players in James Laurinaitis, Na'il Diggs and Larry Grant.

Grant just replaced Bobby Carpenter in the lineup. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo likes what he sees in Grant.

In The St. Louis Dispatch:

Asked whether Grant had taken a step forward this summer, coach Steve Spagnuolo said, "That's probably a pretty good way to put it. Just the other night I was watching tape, and he kind of stuck out. … He's got some things about him. He looks like you want an NFL linebacker to look; he plays aggressive.

"If he could smooth some things out from the mental part of it, I think he'll be OK."

 

"I never thought I would miss Peralta's defense. Are the Indians brass going to just keep running Marte, Nix, and Vallbuena out there the rest of the season at third base? Seems like that's going to be hard on the pitching staff. It boggles the mind to think The Tribe doesn't have one infielder in the whole system that can play third base at even a mediocre level."
- denfair

Associated PressJhonny Peralta has played mostly shortstop for the Tigers after being traded by the Indians.

As the classic Cinderella song goes, you don't know what you got until it's gone. That's what some Indians fans are thinking about former third baseman Jhonny Peralta after the Tribe committed five errors - three at third base - in a 7-3 win over the Royals last night. It's hard to believe after watching him all those years, but Peralta is actually second in the majors in fielding percentage this season.

Indians fan denfar comments,

"I never thought I would miss Peralta's defense. Are the Indians brass going to just keep running Marte, Nix, and Vallbuena out there the rest of the season at third base? Seems like that's going to be hard on the pitching staff. It boggles the mind to think The Tribe doesn't have one infielder in the whole system that can play third base at even a mediocre level."

"I personally would like the Indians to sign a Vet like Mike Lowell to man the hot corner next season. He may be on the downside, bu like Scott Rolen he can still hit with the best of them and would provide a nice veteran presence in the clubhouse."

Do you miss Peralta? What's the answer at third base? Get in on the discussion in the comment section below.

"It's not about who starts the game anymore. You can never have too many running backs. Teams are not going to a 2-back system just because it's trendy. Dallas has three blue-chip running backs. Three! Harrison, Hardesty, Hillis, Hooever... Just win, baby."
- BrownsBro

John Kuntz/The Plain DealerJerome Harrison has impressive numbers, so why hasn't he been named the Browns' featured back?

"I agree that the Browns have a superb running back in Jerome Harrison and just hope that they make him their feature back until he proves otherwise."

"It's not about who starts the game anymore. You can never have too many running backs. Teams are not going to a 2-back system just because it's trendy. Dallas has three blue-chip running backs. Three! Harrison, Hardesty, Hillis, Hooever... Just win, baby."

PD Browns reporter is hearing Steelers are on the decline, but doesn't think right now Browns can pass them in the division.

Plain Dealer file photoThe Browns and Steelers will add two more chapters to their rivalry in 2010. Tony Grossi says he hears the Steelers might be on the decline this year, but at this point, he suspects the Browns won't be able to pass them in the standings.

Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, our Web video show about what's going on in Cleveland sports. Today's show is hosted by Branson Wright, who is flying solo. Let's go to the highlights:

• Today's Starting Blocks poll asks you to pick where the Cleveland Browns will finish in the AFC North. Cast your vote now.

• Plain Dealer Browns beat writer Tony Grossi, today's guest, says the Browns will gain ground on the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he predicts they still will finish fourth. However, Tony says he reserves the right to change his pick as the regular season approaches.

• Tony also answers questions about why the Philadelphia Eagles let Browns general manager Tom Heckert leave their organization; about whether the Browns' defensive backfield will be improved this season.

• And in an issue of crucial importance to Browns fans, Tony answers a question about why he does not like to talk about the team's uniforms, despite using the topic of Brown pants to start his game story after last Saturday's Browns preseason win over the Packers.

Tony will return to Starting Blocks TV to answer more questions next Friday, and the SBTV hosts and producers will try to end their ill-fated attempts to display and read the Hey, Tony! questions in the proper order.

Former Major League pitcher Roger Clemens issued a statement through Twitter denying he lied or used Performance Enhancement Drugs. Clemens twitted: "I never took HGH or Steroids. And I did not lie to Congress. I look forward to challenging the Governments accusations, and hope people will keep an open mind until trial. I appreciate all the support I have been getting. I...

New York Post

Former Major League pitcher Roger Clemens issued a statement through Twitter denying he lied or used Performance Enhancement Drugs.

Clemens twitted:

"I never took HGH or Steroids. And I did not lie to Congress. I look forward to challenging the Governments accusations, and hope people will keep an open mind until trial. I appreciate all the support I have been getting. I am happy to finally have my day in court."

The Boston Herald interviewed U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, (D-South Boston). He sat through Clemens’ 2008 testimony as a member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. Lynch said he was not surprised Clemens was charged with perjury.

“There were glaring inconsistencies between Mr. Clemens’ testimony and the testimony of other witnesses who had personal knowledge of all the matters involved,” Lynch told the Herald. “There are irreconcilable facts that someone is not being truthful.”

College basketball coaches get all of the credit for the success of their teams, but some of the credit needs to go to those assistants who are responsible for signing some of the best high school players in the country. Yahoo.com college basketball writer Jason King puts together a list of the top recruiters. Kentucky coach John Calipari has benefited from...

Ohio State assistant coach Jeff Boals

College basketball coaches get all of the credit for the success of their teams, but some of the credit needs to go to those assistants who are responsible for signing some of the best high school players in the country.

Yahoo.com college basketball writer Jason King puts together a list of the top recruiters. Kentucky coach John Calipari has benefited from some of the best players in the country, thanks in part to assistant coach Orlando Antigua.

Ohio State assistant coach Jeff Boals, has been on the Buckeyes’ staff for just 16 months, but Boals has been quick to make his presence felt on a staff that also includes standout recruiter Brandon Miller.

Boals helped land three-star prospects and current freshmen Aaron Craft and J.D. Weatherspoon shortly after leaving Akron for Ohio State. And the Buckeyes have already secured pledges for a pair of four-star standouts from the Class of 2011: Shannon Scott and LaQuinton Ross (although Buckeyes assistant Dave Dickerson was the point man on Ross). While at Akron, Boals helped land Zeke Marshall, a Top 35 national recruit.

Other assistants within the Big Ten include Jerrance Howard of Illinois, and Mark Montgomery of Michigan State.

Cleveland Browns fans set a few attendance records at the 2010 training camp held the past three weeks in Berea. With a new front office and many new players, the anticipation for an improved team this year is high.

Cleveland Browns fans set a few attendance records at the 2010 training camp held the past three weeks in Berea. With a new front office and many new players, the anticipation for an improved team this year is high. The season begins September 12th in Tampa Bay against the Buccaneers.

Staff reports CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Gladiators are pleased to announce that WR Ben Nelson, OL Adam Tadisch and DL Anthony Hoke have each earned All-Arena league honors for their 2010 performances.  Nelson and Tadisch were named to the All-Arena 1st Team, while Hoke was named to the All-Arena 2nd team.  Nelson (6-2, 190, St. Cloud State) started in...

Joshua Gunter / The Plain DealerGladiators receiver Ben Nelson, right,

Staff reports

CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Gladiators are pleased to announce that WR Ben Nelson, OL Adam Tadisch and DL Anthony Hoke have each earned All-Arena league honors for their 2010 performances.  Nelson and Tadisch were named to the All-Arena 1^st Team, while Hoke was named to the All-Arena 2^nd team.

Nelson (6-2, 190, St. Cloud State) started in 14 games for the Gladiators before suffering a season-ending injury in Week 15 versus Spokane.  He finished the season with 151 catches for 1,867 yards and 47 touchdowns.  His 151 catches and 1,867 yards are both franchise records, while the 47 touchdowns is one shy of the 48-mark set by Otis Amey in 2008.  Despite missing the final two games, Nelson finished second in the league in receptions and yards and tied for second in touchdowns. 

Tadisch (6-8, 340, North Dakota State) started in all 16 regular season games for the Gladiators this season.  He split time between guard and tight end, and was the anchor of the line that allowed quarterback John Dutton to pass for 5,104 yards and 100 touchdowns, while only being sacked eight times.  Following the season, Tadisch signed a free agent contract with the New York Jets of the NFL.

Hoke (6-1, 245, Cincinnati) appeared in 15 games (all starts) for the Gladiators in 2010.  A constant threat to quarterbacks, Hoke finished the year with 7.5 sacks – a new Gladiators single-season record and added 9.5 tackles for a loss.  In addition, he recorded one interception and four fumble recoveries, returning the fumble for a touchdown.  He added three pass breakups and two forced fumbles in his first AFL season.

“As an organization, we are all very proud of the effort these men gave this year,” said Head Coach Steve Thonn.  “Ben, Adam and Anthony are all very deserving of these awards and it is nice that they are being recognized for what they’ve done.”

The Cleveland Gladiators thank the fans of Cleveland for all of the support in 2010!  2011 Season Ticket deposits are being accepted now!  For more information, call 216.685.9000 or visit www.clevelandgladiators.com.  Don’t miss all of the hard-hitting, helmet-popping excitement of arena football!  Get ready to Rock the Q and Roll with the Gladiators!

Armando Galarraga's last start against the Cleveland Indians featured a major controversy, with umpire Jim Joyce blowing a call that cost the pitcher a perfect game. Plus, Jhonny Peralta faces his former team for the first time.

Paul Sancya/The Associated PressTigers starter Armando Galarraga gets another shot at the Indians tonight in Detroit.

By SANTOSH VENKATARAMAN, STATS Senior Writer

He'll face the Indians at home again after getting into an argument with catcher Alex Avila during his last start when the Detroit Tigers open a three-game set Friday night.

On June 2, Galarraga (3-5, 4.53 ERA) came within one out of a perfect game when Joyce called Jason Donald safe at first base after a grounder. Replays showed that Donald was out.

Galarraga was praised for his sportsmanship in the aftermath of the call, meeting Joyce at home plate the next day when the teams exchanged lineups to help console the embattled umpire.

The right-hander has received the complete opposite reaction following a 13-8 win over Chicago on Sunday, when he allowed four runs in five innings and didn't get a decision. Galarraga and Avila got in a heated argument after the first inning and had to be separated.

"It was just a misunderstanding. That's it," Galarraga told the Tigers' official website. "You always try to make your (game) plan, but sometimes the plan's not the right way. It's a misunderstanding."

It's uncertain whether Avila will catch Galarraga, 0-3 with a 4.73 ERA in seven home starts since his near-perfect game.

Detroit (58-63) has won 12 of 15 at home against Cleveland (50-71), but it was a four-game road series against the Indians that began the club's slide. The Tigers were one-half game out of first place at the All-Star break before being swept by the Indians from July 16-18.

Miguel Cabrera had two singles in 14 at-bats in that series. He went 11 for 25 with two homers and seven RBIs to help Detroit win six of its first eight against Cleveland.

Cabrera has hit five homers in his last five games.

Three of them came in Detroit's last two contests, but that wasn't enough to keep the Tigers from losing the final three games of a four-game set to New York. They fell 11-5 on Thursday after yielding nine runs in the sixth inning.

"The wheels kind of fell off in the one inning a little bit," manager Jim Leyland said. "You can't make the mistakes we're making right now."

Cleveland won for the third time in 11 games Thursday, 7-3 at Kansas City despite a season-high five errors. The victory came after a pregame speech from manager Manny Acta addressing the poor play.

"We wanted them to know we're not going to be rebuilding forever," Acta said. "These guys are not September callups. These guys have a legit chance to be a long-term part of this club."

The Indians' Justin Masterson (4-11, 5.23) has gone 0-1 with an 8.10 ERA in two career starts against the Tigers. He allowed one hit in six scoreless innings of a 9-1 victory over Seattle on Sunday, but did not get the decision.

Sneak a Cold Treat and trainer Jamie Ness have been a winning combination since Ness claimed the five-year-old for Illinois-based Midwest Thoroughbreds last year, adding a victory in Friday's $50,000 Honey Jay Stakes at Thistledown.

 Sneak a Cold Treat and trainer Jamie Ness have been a winning combination since Ness claimed the five-year-old for Illinois-based Midwest Thoroughbreds last year, adding a victory in Friday's $50,000 Honey Jay Stakes at Thistledown in record time for six furlongs.

While the fans favored Tri Uimet, Ohio's top sprinter in 2009, Sneak a Cold Treat carried jockey Yamil Rosario to his first Thistledown stakes victory as the 5-1 choice. The son of Snuck In discouraged 9-5 favorite Tri Uimet from taking away the early lead with a 22 1/5-second opening quarter-mile, and opened a 5 1/2-length lead at the wire in 1:09 2/5.

That clocking is now the standard for the Honey Jay Stakes, topping a 1:09 3/5 win by I Cant Refuse in 2005. The track record for six furlongs is 1:08 2/5, set in 1987.

Sneak a Cold Treat paid $13, 5.60 and 3.80. Tri Uimet finished second, $3, 2.10, with That's a Heckofacat ($2.80) third, another 2 1/4 lengths back.

Sneak a Cold Treat likes the Thistledown oval. He has 10 victories in 33 career starts and $184,546 in earnings. At Thistledown, Sneak a Cold Treat has won eight of 18 races and $155,000. 

 In an understatement, Ness said in the winner's circle that Sneak a Cold Treat has been a pretty good claim, a $12,500 purchase at Tampa Bay Downs in 2009. All the dark bay gelding has done since becoming a member of Ness's stable is to win six of 12 starts and last fall's $100,000 Best of Ohio Endurance here.

 A sentimental pick for many at 5-2, the nine-year-old Catlaunch made an early move but couldn't rally late. He finished fifth,  10 lengths off the leader.

 Ness said he has the enviable decision of running Sneak a Cold Treat in either the Best of Ohio's endurance or sprint this fall.

Browns coach Eric Mangini is expecting the team's offense to build on last week's sizzling debut in Green Bay when it hosts the Rams in the second preseason game.

Associated PressBrowns QB Seneca Wallace throws a touchdown pass as the Green Bay Packerss' Tramon Williams applies pressure last Saturday. Browns coach Eric Mangini anticipates working Wallace with the first team again tonight against the St. Louis Rams.

CLEVELAND -- So, what does the Browns offense do for an encore tonight against the Rams after its thrilling debut in Green Bay last week? It better be good, because the status quo isn't going to cut it for coach Eric Mangini.

"I'm looking for us to play and operate better than we did against Green Bay," said Mangini. "That's what I typically look for each step in the preseason. I want to continue to do well and improve on the things we didn't do well. There was plenty to improve on from the game and a lot of things I was happy with."

Mangini will play his starters for the first half and maybe into the third quarter, depending on the quality of the reps Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace get. The coach said he anticipates Wallace working with the first team again and has liked what he has seen. Wallace threw two touchdown passes on his three drives against Green Bay, one to Brian Robiskie in the back left corner of the end zone while scrambling left and a 20-yarder to Ben Watson over the middle after faking an out.

"It was nice to see Seneca roll out of the pocket, break contain and throw a touchdown on somebody besides us," said Mangini. "Because he extends the play, it's been really good work defensively. I've been pleased with him. He's an accurate guy. He's got a strong arm, he's confident, he's got poise. The confidence in him has grown each week as we've gotten to know him and he's gotten to know the system."

Likewise, Delhomme gained confidence and some timing with his receivers after marching 80 yards in 11 plays on the opening drive, which ended with a 4-yard TD run by Jerome Harrison. Along the way, Delhomme completed 6-of-7 for 66 yards.

"It's an exhibition game, but it was a good drive," said Delhomme. "It sure beats the heck out of going three-and-out, three-and-out, three-and-out. We started fast, and that's what we wanted to do. It's just a start, but we're hoping we can build on it."

Delhomme relied heavily on No. 1 receiver Mohamed Massaquoi on that drive, hitting him three times for 36 yards -- including a 12-yarder on 4th-and-1 -- but might not have Massaquoi's services tonight. He suffered a strained hamstring on that drive and sat out most of the week. He returned Thursday night for a no-pads practice but was limited. If he sits, Brian Robiskie will replace him, and Josh Cribbs and Chansi Stuckey will see increased action.

"[Robiskie's] done great all spring, summer and in the first game," said Delhomme. "Watching him play a new position this week [for Massaquoi], it's like old hat. He's a kid who truly gets it."

Massaquoi's absence has given Delhomme a chance to get some much-needed reps with receiver Josh Cribbs. They connected on a long TD pass earlier in the week and another in red zone drills Thursday night.

"We've gotten on the same page on a couple of plays, and that's what you want," said Delhomme. "As a quarterback, you have to learn your receivers, their body language, the way they run routes, their head carriage. What are they thinking when their head's a certain way? Are they ready to stop or are they motoring?"

Defensively, the Browns are hoping for more good work from rookie cornerback Joe Haden and rookie safety T.J. Ward. Both had some ups and downs against the Packers' high-powered offense, but gained great experience. Ward, in particular, showed he was ready to start, with seven tackles for second on the team.

"I just want to get better every game, get more experience and show I belong out there," said Ward. "I want to play situations better and know what I'm supposed to be doing all the time."

Haden has been splitting first-team reps with starter Eric Wright because of Wright's sore right leg, but it's been a great chance for the Browns to see him against starters.

"I like a lot of what I'm seeing from him," said Mangini. "He has a lot to learn, and he's working at it. We're trying to accelerate his growth as much as we can."

The Browns will play against No. 1 overall pick Sam Bradford, who's still listed behind A.J. Feeley but is expected to start the season. Bradford completed four of his first six passes last week in a 28-7 loss to Minnesota, and went 6-of-13 for 57 yards overall with no touchdowns or interceptions. He earned a 58.8 rating.

"He's a really good player, and he did some impressive things in college," said Mangini. "I imagine he'll have a very productive professional career. I don't really want it to start this weekend. It can start next weekend. Drafted where he was drafted, it comes with a lot of expectations, but he's lived up to expectations in the past, so I imagine he will in the future."

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m., Cleveland Browns Stadium. TV/radio: WKYC Channel 3; WMMS FM/100.7. Live chat: cleveland.com 2009 records: Browns 5-11, Rams 1-15. What to watch: The Rams finished last in the NFL in points scored last season with 10.9 per game and ranked 31st in points allowed with 27.3 per game. Last week, they were outgained, 414 yards to 150,...

Associated PressNo. 1 pick Sam Bradford probably won't start but will see plenty of action at quarterback behind A.J. Feeley.

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m., Cleveland Browns Stadium.

TV/radio: WKYC Channel 3; WMMS FM/100.7. Live chat: cleveland.com

2009 records: Browns 5-11, Rams 1-15.

What to watch: The Rams finished last in the NFL in points scored last season with 10.9 per game and ranked 31st in points allowed with 27.3 per game. Last week, they were outgained, 414 yards to 150, in a 28-7 loss to the Vikings. No. 1 pick Sam Bradford probably won't start but will see plenty of action at quarterback behind A.J. Feeley. Last week, Bradford completed four of his first six passes, finishing 6-of-13 for 57 yards and a 58.8 passer rating. Rams RB Steven Jackson will provide a good test for the run defense. Last season, he earned his second Pro Bowl berth after leading the NFC with 1,416 yards. The Rams' new starting left tackle is Bedford High School grad Rodger Saffold, their second-round pick. Former Buckeyes linebacker James Laurinaitis started 16 games as a rookie last year, leading the team with 144 tackles (96 solo), most by a rookie in team history. Former Browns center Hank Fraley is the Rams' starting right guard. The right side of the Browns' line still is ailing, with RT Tony Pashos still out with a shoulder injury, RG Floyd Womack out for the preseason with a knee injury and rookie RG Shawn Lauvao back home in Hawaii because of a personal reason. RT John St. Clair returned Thursday and could start.

Browns' key injuries: RB Montario Hardesty (knee), LB D'Qwell Jackson (pectoral muscle), OT Pashos (shoulder), G Womack (knee) and LB David Bowens (knee). WR Mohamed Massaquoi has been limited with a strained hamstring all week.