Matt Capps, Shaun Marcum, Matt Treanor and Luke Carlin re-assigned to minor league camp.

GOODYEAR, Ariz. – The Indians did some spring training house cleaning on Thursday.

They optioned shortstop Justin Sellers to Class AAA Columbus and reassigned right-handers Matt Capps and Shaun Marcum and catchers Matt Treanor and Luke Carlin to minor league camp. Capps (right shoulder), Marcum (thoracic outlet syndrome) and Treanor (left hamstring) will open the year on the minor league disabled list.

Capps, Marcum, Treanor and Carlin came to camp on minor league deals with invitations to big-league camp.

The Indians acquired Sellers from the Dodgers on March 2 for cash. He hit .450 (9-for-20) with three doubles and three RBI for the Tribe. Sellers will play shortstop for the Clippers.

After playing Arizona told at Salt River Fields on Thursday afternoon, the Indians break camp and travel to San Diego to the play the Padres on Friday and Saturday at the University of San Diego.

Extra players making the trip are right-handers Brett Brach and Toru Murata, catcher Tony Wolters, infielders Ryan Rohlinger, Ronny Rodriguez, James Roberts and Jerrud Sabourin and outfielders Tim Fedroff and Tyler Holt.

AKRON, Ohio -- The St. Vincent-St. Mary girls basketball team is coming off a special season, reaching the state tournament for the first time since 1995. The team went 25-3 on the way to an appearance in a state semifinal, where they fell to eventual state champion, 49-45. A big reason why the Irish were so successful this season...

AKRON, Ohio -- The St. Vincent-St. Mary girls basketball team is coming off a special season, reaching the state tournament for the first time since 1995.

The team went 25-3 on the way to an appearance in a state semifinal, where they fell to eventual state champion, 49-45. A big reason why the Irish were so successful this season was because of a starting lineup that consisted of five seniors. Four of those players had played together since fourth grade, and the chemistry the team showed on the court was one for the ages.

One of those seniors, Jordan Korinek, finished her career by averaging 19.4 points and 10.3 rebounds this season, and is a finalist for the cleveland.com player of the year.

In the state game against West Holmes, Korinek had perhaps her finest game with 24 points and 11 rebounds. While that loss is something that will motivate her going forward, she realizes how special this season was for her team.

“Right after the game, I was very disappointed because we competed so hard and were just a couple of plays away from winning that game,” Korinek said. “However, now that I have had some time to get away and look back at the season, I’m able to realize how special this season truly was.” Being able to go out there and play with my best friends is something I will never forget.”

Coach Joe Jakubick, who has coached Korinek since fourth grade, is confident that her best basketball days are still ahead of her.

“For Kent State, Jordan is not just a player they are bringing in to fill spots,” Jakubick said. “She is the type of player that can come in and help change a program. I have been tough on her at times throughout her career, but that is because I can understand how great she can be. That performance against West Holmes was spectacular, but that’s what I expect out of Jordan.”

While she will never play on the same team as her fellow senior teammates, Korinek will still have plenty of time to play basketball and workout with them.

“We decided to step away from the court for a little while, just to get rejuvenated,” Korinek said. “However, we are all ready to get back working out with each other and getting ready for college next year. Being able to workout with my friends will be a great way to help us get ready.”

While she will be a Division I college basketball player last season, Korinek understands that she would not be where she is if it was not for those teammates.

“These have been the four best years of my life, and I will never forget them,” Korinek said. “We have created so many life memories throughout the years, and I look forward to creating more memories at Kent State.”

Korinek joins Stasha Carey and Kristen Confroy as the three finalists for the Cleveland.com player of the year. Tune in next week as the player of the year is announced as well as the all-star team.

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They're battling in courtrooms, and could one day meet over a bargaining table. About the only things the two sides in the debate over big-time college athletics agree on is that things are changing.

The lottery to win a day of fishing on Ohio's premier trout stream at the Castalia Fish Hatchery in Erie County closes on March 31.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Outdoor Calendar for March 28:

March 28: Whitetails Unlimited Big Buckeye Deer Camp, Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, 7033 Glenn Hwy., Cambridge. Featured are a buffet dinner, raffles, exhibits, games and Travis “T-Bone” Turner of Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector television show. For tickets call Chris Fausett (740-680-2119) or Denny Malloy, 330-507-9489. Tickets $30, which includes a WU Deer Camp shirt. Doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m.

March 28: Annual banquet for the Thundering Toms of Trumbull County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Garden Brook Banquet Hall, 4820 Warren Rd., Cortland. Contact Richard White, 330-240-2415, drwhite96@aol.com.

March 28-30: Coyote Hunting Contest, Leetonia Sportsman’s Club, 311 E. High St., Leetonia. Two-hunter teams, entry $30. Enter by 8 p.m. on March 27. For information, contact Bill Harding (330-822-0100, bharding37@comcast.net) or Jeff Cope (330-457-1212, jeffypop321@aol.com).

March 28-30: Morel Mushroom Seminars at Fin, Feather Fur Outfitters locations in Cleveland (March 28, noon-7 p.m.), Canton (March 29, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Ashland (March 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.). Call 419-281-2557 or visit www.finfeatherfuroutfitters.com.

March 29: Buckeye Big Buck Club Free Scoring Day, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Fin Feather Fur Outfitters, Interstate-71 and Rt. 250, Ashland. Call 419-281-2557 or visit www.finfeatherfuroutfitters.com.

March 29: Annual banquet for the Portage County Callers Chapter of the National Wild turkey Federation, VFW, 6000 New Milford Rd., Ravenna. Contact Michael Bedilion, 330-281-7815, turk835@neo.rr.com.

March 29: 14th annual Shreve Spring Migration Sensation, Shreve Elementary School, 598 N. Market St., Shreve. Fee $15, $20 for family. Registration opens at 7 a.m. Workshops, wildlife and wetlands displays, family programs and self-guided tours. Visit www.ShreveMigration.org.

March 29: Streamside Tree Planting volunteers needed, 10 a.m.-noon, Baldwin Creek, Mill Stream Run Reservation, Berea. Gather at the Baldwin Picnic Area on North Quarry Lane. Tools, equipment, refreshments provided. Register with Jared Bartley, 216-524-6580 (Ext. 14), jbartley@cuyahogaswcd.org.

March 29-30: Ohio Hunter Education Course, South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, Erhart Rd. (south of West Smith Rd.), Chatham Twp. Free. Classes 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. both days. Pre-register with Lynn Taylor, 330-606-2683, or Tim Dobriansky, 440-220-2232.

March 30: Turkey Shoot at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m., shoot begins at 9 a.m. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

March 31: Deadline for applying for Castalia Trout Fishing lottery, Castalia State Fish Hatchery, Castalia. Visit www.wildohio.com and access Customer Center, Lottery Applications. Application fee is a nonrefundable $3. Successful permit winners may bring two people older than 16 and three youngsters under 16.

March 31: SCSA Youth Indoor Archery, basic archery instruction with emphasis on safety and basic archery techniques for boys and girls 6 to 15 years of age, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Sessions now full. To be put on a waiting list contact Patrick Martelon, 330-324-2705.

April 1: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Hinckley Lake in Hinckley; Westlake Recreation Center pond in Westlake; and Shadow Lake in Solon. For information visit wildohio.com.

April 3: 8th annual banquet for the Lakeshore Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Port Clinton Elks Lodge, 231 Buckeye Blvd., Port Clinton. Tickets $60, couples $85, jakes $25. Contact Jim Frattaroli, 419-967-0149, jbfratt@aol.com.

April 4: Hunting Heritage Banquet hosted by the North Coast Limbhangers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, North Olmsted Party Center, 29227 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted. Tickets $65, couples $90, Jakes $35. Call Niki Bolling, 440-547-2738, northcoastlimbhangers@yahoo.com. Raffles, exhibits, games. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m.

April 4: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Forest Hill Pond in East Cleveland; and Painesville Recreation Park Pond in Painesville. . For information visit wildohio.com.

April 4-6: Ohio Taxidermy Association annual show and awards, Roberts Centre, Interstate 71 (Exit 50), Wilmington. Wildlife Display open to the public on April 5 from 1-3 p.m. OTA membership open to amateur, youth taxidermists. Visit www.ohiotaxidermists.com.

April 5: 47th annual Invitational Winner’s Trial of the All-Breed Hunter’s Trial Circuit, 8 a.m., Wayne Coon Hunters Association, 4900 Secrest Rd., Wooster. Entries closed. Open to the public.

April 5: The 36th annual banquet of the Trout Club of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval, Cleveland. Tickets $80, $150 per couple. Silent and live auctions, raffles and dinner. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner, live auction and raffle at 7:30 p.m. Contact Karen Menn (216-231-4600 Ext. 3278) or visit www.cmnh.org.

April 5: Annual Banquet of the Lake County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, 5-10 p.m., St. Noel’s Banquet Center, 35200 Chardon Rd., Willoughby Hills. Raffles, exhibits, silent auction. Tickets $45, couple $75. Includes Ducks Unlimited annual membership. Call Time Cline, 440-749-5182.

April 5: Lake Erie Walleye Trail Tournament on Lake Erie at Magee East Marina & Campground. Two-angler teams. Sponsored by the Western Basin Sportfishing Association. For information visit www.wbsa.us or contact Joe Yingling, 419-621-4751, joe.yingling@yahoo.com.

April 5: Lottery drawing for controlled youth turkey hunts at the Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area and the Camp Ravenna Joint Military Training Center. Hunting dates at the Mosquito Area are Saturdays and Sundays from April 19-May 18, and April 19 only at Camp Ravenna. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. at the Trumbull Rod and Gun Club, 6575 Phillips-Rice Rd. (1 mile north of Rt. 88), Cortland. Jakes Day begins at 9:30 a.m. with lottery drawing at 1 p.m.

April 5: 5th annual Vance Outdoors Buckeye Lake Open Bass Tournament, Liebs Island Ramp, Buckeye Lake. Contact Ron Groves (rgroves@vanceoutdoors.com, 740-928-9474.

April 6: Turkey Shoot at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m., shoot begins at 9 a.m. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

April 9: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. OWC will vote on proposed regulations, dates for 2014-2015 seasons. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com.

April 9: Firelands Fly Fishers meeting featuring fly fishing expert Jerry Darkes and his new book, The Inland Seas, French Creek Nature Center, 6:30 p.m., 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village. For information visit www.firelandsflyfishers.org.

April 10: Annual banquet for the Northcoast Limbhangers Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, North Olmsted Party Center, 29227 Lorain Rd., North Olmsted. Contact Shawn Dicket, 216-433-0565, sdickey@nwtf.net.

April 11: Annual banquet for the Huron River Fantails Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Elks Lodge 285, 120 E. Adams St., Sandusky. Contact Doug Johnston, 419-684-7158, dougmjmarcia@att.net.

April 12: Castapalooza! A Celebration of All Things Fly Fishing, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Lake Metroparks Hidden Valley Reservation, Klassen Rd. (south of I-90 off Rt. 528), Madison. Free. Fly casting, fly tying and rigging demonstrations. Fly casting games and prizes.

April 12: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Little Turtle Pond in Akron; and Punderson Lake in Newbury. Both stockings have been listed as hosting youth fishing events on April 12, with adult fishing allowed afterward. For information visit wildohio.com.

April 12: Annual banquet of the Medina County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, 5-11 p.m., The Galaxy, 201 Park Center Dr., Wadsworth. Tickets $70, couples $100. Call Rick Hawk, 330-338-4871, or visit www.ducks.org/ohio.

April 12: Goodyear Hunting & Fishing Club Trout Derby, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Little Turtle Ponds, Firestone Metropark, 2400 Harrington Rd., Akron. Anglers 15 and under. A $1 cash prize for catching tagged fish. A limited number of rods and reels available. Worm available for purchase; minnows not allowed. Call 330-865-8065.

April 12: Youth turkey lottery for Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area hunts on Saturdays and Sunday from April 19-May 18. The drawing is at the East Holmes Sportsmen’s Club, 2.5 miles southeast of Millersburg on Twp. Rd. 310. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Jakes Day events will be held before the 1 p.m. lottery.

April 12: Doug Hanes Memorial Ice Breaker Bass Tournament, Moundwood Ramp, Indian Lake. Contact Bill Cochensparger (bluegillbill@woh.rr.com, 419-201-9031).

April 12: Ottawa County Chapter of Ducks Unlimited annual banquet and fundraiser, Camp Perry Banquet Hall, Ohio 2, Oak Harbor. Tickets $60, couples $85, greenwings $25. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., dinneer at 6:30 p.m., auction at 8 p.m. Visit www.ducks.org/ohio.

April 12-13: Traditional Turkey Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

April 13: Great Lakes Largemouth Series Open Bass Tournament, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

April 13: Turkey Shoot at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m., shoot begins at 9 a.m. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

April 13: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

April 16: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Silver Creek Lake in Norton. For information visit wildohio.com.

April 16: Youth Fishing Program Workshop to teach volunteers to become certified Passport to Fishing instructors with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ODOW District 3 Headquarters, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Free, with pre-registration required. All participants required to have a background check. Volunteers will learn to teach the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station fishing program. To pre-register contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030.

April 17: Ohio Central Basin Steelheaders meeting featuring Dave Dyer on fishing Indiana’s Trail Creek and Lake Michigan for Skamania trout in spring and early summer. Meeting from 7:30-9 p.m. at Ampol Club Hall, 4737 Pearl Rd., Cleveland. Visit www.ohiosteelheaders.com.

April 19: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Buckeye Lake. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

April 19: Spring Fling Walleye Derby pre-derby party, 1-3 p.m., Shines Bait & Tackle, 1287 East 55th St., Cleveland.

April 19-20, 2014: Youth wild turkey hunting spring season. For information visit www.wildohio.com or call 1-800-WILDLIFE.

April 20: Turkey Shoot at the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, 19300 Ridge Rd., North Royalton. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m., shoot begins at 9 a.m. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

April 20: South Cuyahoga Bowmen 3-D Archery Shoots, South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, 5370 Erhart Rd., Chatham Township. Registration 8-11 a.m. Rinehart targets featured. Crossbows welcome. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

April 21: Spring wild turkey hunting season opens through May 18, 2014. For information visit www.wildohio.com or call 1-800-WILDLIFE.

April 24-May 19: Walleye Spring Fling fishing derby, Ohio waters of Lake Erie. Entry $25. Derby begins at 12:01 a.m. on April 24 and ends at 8 a.m. on May 19. Awards party on May 23 from 6-9 p.m. at Elmwood Park Cabin, 600 Elmwood Rd., Rocky River. For information call Frank Murphy, 440-221-2822, visit www.lakeeriefishingderby.com or email lakeeriefishingderby@gmail.com.

April 25: 2d Amendment Freedom Dinner held by the Tinkers Creek Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited, Days Inn & Suites, 4742 Brecksville Rd., Richfield. Featured are dinner, raffles, exhibits, games and Travis “T-Bone” Turner of Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector television show. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets $50, $30 for spouse or child. Ticket deadline is April 22. Call Matt McCann, 330-467-1729 or Denny Malloy, 330-507-9489.

April 26: Fishing Instructor Certification Workshop, Passport to Fishing program, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District Three Office, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Pre-registration required. Contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030, Kenneth.fry@dnr.state.oh.us.

April 26: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Ohio Canal Lock No. 4, Canal Fulton. For information visit wildohio.com.

April 26-27: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

April 27: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

April 27: Team Bass Xtreme/Central Ohio Division, Buckeye Lake. For information visit www.TeamBassExtreme.com.

May 2-4: Catawba Island Boat Show, Catawba Island Club, Catawba Island. For information visit lemta.com.

May 2-4: Lake and Trails Fishing Camp, FFA Camp Muskingum on Leesville Lake, Carrollton. Registration opens Feb. 15 for youngsters 9 to 17 years old. An adult must accompany youth attendees. For information or to sign up visit www.lakeandtrails.org or call Karen Metzger, 330-725-8747.

May 3: 14th annual Mosquito Creek 60 Gun Raffle, Mosquito Creek Chapter of Whitetails Unlimited, Yankee Lake Ballroom, 1814 Rt. 7, Brookfield. For information, tickets contact Denny Malloy, 330-507-9489.

May 3: Lake Erie Walleye Trail Tournament on Lake Erie at Lakevue Marina, Lakeside. Two-angler teams. Sponsored by the Western Basin Sportfishing Association. For information visit www.wbsa.us or contact Joe Yingling, 419-621-4751, joe.yingling@yahoo.com.

May 4: National Field Archery Association Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

May 4: 3-D Archery League and National Field Archery Association League begin weekly shoots begin at Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795. Leagues held each Sunday for 10 weeks.

May 4-June 28: Lake Erie FishCrazy Spring Walleye Derby. Visit www.lakeeriewalleyederby.com for rules. Entry $50, $10 for one-day entry. Weekly, monthly and overall winners.

May 10: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Grand Lake St. Marys. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

May 10-11: Swap Meet and 3-D Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Bring outdoor-related gear to swap or sell. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

May 11: MOMS 3-D Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Mothers shoot for free. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

May 14: Fly Casting Night with Firelands Fly Fishers, Walker Road Park, Walker Rd., Avon Lake. For information visit www.firelandsflyfishers.org.

May 16: Rainbow trout stockings by the Ohio Division of Wildlife at Ohio & Erie Canal, Cuyahoga Heights. For information visit wildohio.com.

May 17: Lake Erie Walleye Trail Tournament on Lake Erie at Sandusky. Two-angler teams. Sponsored by the Western Basin Sportfishing Association. For information visit www.wbsa.us or contact Joe Yingling, 419-621-4751, joe.yingling@yahoo.com.

May 17: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division, Grand Lake St. Marys. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

May 17-18: Cleveland Metroparks Kid’s Fishing Derby. Saturday at Wallace Lake in Berea; Sunday at Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation in Cuyahoga Heights. Stocked rainbow trout and catfish. Youngsters 4-8 years old from 9 a.m.-noon; 9-15 years old from 1-4 p.m. Free, pre-registration not needed, kids-only fishing until 4 p.m. Prizes for biggest, smallest fish. Bring fishing tackle, coolers for fish.

May 23: 7th annual Western Reserve Friends of NRA Banquet, LaMalfa Party Center, 5785 Hensley Rd., Mentor. Admission $130 ($120 before March 15). Doors open at 6 p.m., buffet at 7 p.m., gun raffles, games and prizes. Contact chairman@westernreservefnra.org.

May 24-25: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

June 7: Youth Fishing Program Workshop to teach volunteers to become certified Passport to Fishing instructors with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ODOW District 3 Headquarters, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Free, with pre-registration required. All participants required to have a background check. Volunteers will learn to teach the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station fishing program. To pre-register contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030.

June 7: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Indian Lake. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

June 7-8: Cleveland Lakefront Boating & Fishing Festival, Cleveland Lakefront State Park/East 55th St. Marina. Boating, water safety and fishing exhibits. Free. Fishing trips for yellow perch on the Holiday party fishing boat. Free boat rides and casting instructions.

June 7-8: Native American Fun Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

June 7-8: Championship of the Lake Erie Walleye Trail Tournament on Lake Erie at Huron Public Launch Ramps, Huron. Two-angler teams. Sponsored by the Western Basin Sportfishing Association. For information visit www.wbsa.us or contact Joe Yingling, 419-621-4751, joe.yingling@yahoo.com.

June 8: Team Bass Xtreme/Central Ohio Division, Alum Creek Lake. For information visit www.TeamBassExtreme.com.

June 8: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

June 21-22: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

June 28: Cleveland Hailers Chapter of Ducks Unlimited annual Family Fish Fry/Game Dinner Picnic, 1 p.m., home of Dave and April Blaylock, Cleveland. Tickets $35, couples $60, children $25. DU membership included. Reservations needed. Call 216-749-7758. Games, raffles, family swimming. Texas Hold’em tournament at 11 a.m. Entry $30.

June 28: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division, Tanner’s Creek on the Ohio River. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

June 28-29: Campout and Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

June 28-29: Ohio Archery Association Championship, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Archers can pre-register at

www.OhioArchers.com. Walk-in reservations open at 8 a.m. Fee $40, 28 targets. visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

June 29: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

June 29: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Presque Isle Division, Marina Ramp, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pa. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or call Aaron Gast, 814-314-9847.

June 29: South Cuyahoga Bowmen 3-D Archery Shoots, South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, 5370 Erhart Rd., Chatham Township. Registration 8-11 a.m. Rinehart targets featured. Crossbows welcome. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

June 29: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Alum Creek Reservoir. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

July 6: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Mentor Lagoons Division, Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Boat Ramp, Mentor Lagoons, Mentor. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Joel Prince (jcprince193@gmail.com, 330-936-6434).

July 6: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Toledo Division, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

July 6: National Field Archery Association Shoot, 28 targets, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

July 12-13: Cookout and Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

July 13: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

July 13: 6th annual Catch A Dream 3-D Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

July 13: Team Bass Xtreme/Central Ohio Division, O’Shaughnessy Reservoir. For information visit www.TeamBassExtreme.com.

July 16: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com.

July 19: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division, Ohio River at Maysville. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

July 20: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Toledo Division, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

July 20: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Presque Isle Division, Marina Ramp, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pa. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or call Aaron Gast, 814-314-9847.

July 26: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Indian Lake. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

July 26-27: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

July 27: South Cuyahoga Bowmen 3-D Archery Shoots, South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, 5370 Erhart Rd., Chatham Township. Registration 8-11 a.m. Rinehart targets featured. Crossbows welcome. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

July 27: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Aug. 2-3: Archery Clinic, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration required before July 26. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Aug. 3: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/ Mentor Lagoons Division, Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Boat Ramp, Mentor Lagoons, Mentor. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Joel Prince (jcprince193@gmail.com, 330-936-6434).

Aug. 3: National Field Archery Association Shoot, 28 targets, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Aug. 7: Annual banquet for the Medina County Strutters Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, Buffalo Creek Retreat, 8708 Hubbard Valley Rd., Seville. Contact Bill Suliks, 330-635-0878, bsuliks@aol.com.

Aug. 9: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division, Tanner’s Creek on the Ohio River. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

Aug. 9-10: African Safari Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

Aug. 10: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Aug. 10: South Cuyahoga Bowmen 3-D Archery Shoots, South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association, 5370 Erhart Rd., Chatham Township. Registration 8-11 a.m. Rinehart targets featured. Crossbows welcome. Visit www.scsasportsmen.com.

Aug. 10: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Presque Isle Division, Marina Ramp, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pa. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or call Aaron Gast, 814-314-9847.

Aug. 10: 3-D Hunter Course Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

Aug. 17: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/ Mentor Lagoons Division, Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Boat Ramp, Mentor Lagoons, Mentor. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Joel Prince (jcprince193@gmail.com, 330-936-6434).

Aug. 17: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Toledo Division, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

Aug. 20: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com.

Aug. 23-24: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Aug. 24: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Aug. 30-31: Dog Days Archery Shoot, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

Aug. 31: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Toledo Division, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

Sept. 6-7: Fall Rendezvous Archery Shoot, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

Sept. 6-7: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division, Indian Lake. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

Sept. 7: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Sept. 7: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Presque Isle Division, Marina Ramp, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pa. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or call Aaron Gast, 814-314-9847.

Sept. 9: Youth Fishing Program Workshop to teach volunteers to become certified Passport to Fishing instructors with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ODOW District 3 Headquarters, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Free, with pre-registration required. All participants required to have a background check. Volunteers will learn to teach the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station fishing program. To pre-register contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030.

Sept. 11-14: North American In-Water Boat Show, Cedar Point Marina, Cedar Point Amusement Park, Sandusky. For information visit lemta.com.

Sept. 13-14: Deer Archery Shoot and Corn Roast, Geauga Bowmen, 12575 Sperry Rd., Chesterland. Shoot registration opens at 8 a.m. Fee $10, kids $5. Call Mike Ballash, 440-227-6756 or visit www.geaugabowmen.com.

Sept. 13-14: 3rd annual Ladies 3-D Archery Shoot on Saturday and Early Bird 3-D Shoot on Sunday, Lost Arrow Archery Club, 3370 17th St. S.W., Massillon. Open to the public, crossbows allowed. Registration 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fee $10, $5 for members. Visit www.lostarrowarcheryclub.com or contact Kandi Schane, 330-933-0980 or Janine Harman, 330-828-2372.

Sept. 14: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/ Mentor Lagoons Division, Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Boat Ramp, Mentor Lagoons, Mentor. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Joel Prince (jcprince193@gmail.com, 330-936-6434).

Sept. 14: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Toledo Division, Cullen Park Boat Launch, 4526 Summit St., Toledo. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact Craig Burwell (birdie2277@yahoo.com, 419-701-8440).

Sept. 17: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com.

Sept. 18: State Fish and Wildlife Hearing, 9 a.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com. Public comments on season dates, regulations.

Sept. 20-21: 3-D Archery Shoot, Lake Milton Fish & Game, 4374 Bedell Rd., Berlin Center. Registration opens at 8 a.m. Adults $10, cubs $5. Open to the public. For information visit www.lakemiltonfishandgameclub.com or call Dennis Dabney, 330-414-5795.

Sept. 21: Great Lakes Largemouth Series/Central Lake Erie Division, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Sept. 21: Great Lakes Largemouth Series, Marina Ramp, Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pa. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or call Aaron Gast, 814-314-9847.

Sept. 27: Ohio Mega Bass Tournament Trail, Delaware Lake. For information visit www.ombtt.com.

Sept. 26-27: Masters Walleye Circuit qualifying tournament, two-angler teams, Lake Erie at Huron, Ohio. For information, entries visit www.masterswalleyecircuit.com. MWC Championship to be held Oct. 8-11 at Devils Lake, N.D.

Oct. 11-12: Championship of the Great Lakes Largemouth Series, Ottawa County Launch Ramp, West Harbor, Catawba Island. Two-angler team event. For information, entries visit www.greatlakeslargemouthseries.com or contact David Hoheisel (david@h2hsales.com. 614-361-5548.

Oct. 15: Ohio Wildlife Council monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Ohio Division of Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Rd., Columbus. For information call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildohio.com.

Oct.16-18: Walmart Bass Fishing League/Buckeye Division Regional Championship, Kentucky Lake. For entries, information visit www.flwoutdoors.com.

Nov. 6: Youth Fishing Program Workshop to teach volunteers to become certified Passport to Fishing instructors with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ODOW District 3 Headquarters, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron. Free, with pre-registration required. All participants required to have a background check. Volunteers will learn to teach the basics of fishing and how to run a four-station fishing program. To pre-register contact Ken Fry, 330-245-3030.

HUNTING SEASONS

Youth spring wild turkey: April 19-20, 2014

Spring wild turkey: April 21-May 18, 2014

June 6, 2014-March 7, 2015 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday only)

Coyote and wild boar: No closed season

Groundhog: Closed only during deer gun season.

All but two teams - Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins - sent representatives to Johnny Manziel's Pro Day on Thursday afternoon.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – All but two teams – Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears – sent representatives to Johnny Manziel's Pro Day on Thursday afternoon. 

Manziel, wearing shoulder pads and a helmet, threw more than 60 passes, with very few hitting the ground. With his QB coach George Whitfield simulating pressure by using a broom – the same thing he did with Andrew Luck during his Pro Day – Manziel showed off arm strength, accuracy, improved footwork and mobility.

As was the case for much of his college career, Manziel was back in the spotlight, with all eyes on him. Fans, media members and current NFL players all had something to say about the quarterback known as "Johnny Football" after his day was done.

Big steelhead trout and pan-sized rainbow trout are providing the best fishing heading into a warming weekend around Northeast Ohio.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Big steelhead trout and pan-sized rainbow trout are providing the best fishing heading into a warming weekend around Northeast Ohio.

If rains in the forecast are heavy they could put a damper on the steelhead trout fishing. The rivers are already high, but only slightly stained. The warm rains, however, should trigger a fresh run of the silvery trout.

The steelhead trout fishing has been fair in the major Lake Erie tributaries from the Vermilion River to Conneaut Creek, with a number of smaller jacks joining bigger steelhead that have been in the river for a while. Rainbow trout released by the Ohio Division of Wildlife and the Cleveland Metroparks should provide some quality fishing,

Many of the inland lakes are still partially covered with ice, but the ice is not thick enough for the most part to allow safe ice fishing.

RIVERS AND STREAMS

The steelhead trout fishing has been fair to good on the Rocky, Chagrin and Grand rivers. Anglers are casting small white tube jigs, jigs tipped with maggots, waxworms or minnows and dime-sized spawn bags. Most fishermen are suspending their offerings just off the river bottom in the deeper pools under a float.

As waters warm, fly fishers are getting in on the action with egg and nymph patterns. Swinging streamers with spey rods is also becoming productive.

Suckers are also running up the rivers, providing some action for anglers working the river bottom with small baits.

The Grand River has been warming up this week, with steelhead trout caught at popular spots like Helen Hazen Wyman Park and around Vrooman Rd. As the river warms a couple of degrees, steelhead should be running all of the way to the Harpersfield Dam.

Walleye are being targeted in the Grand River around Painesville Recreation Park, the Painesville Dam and the Uniroyal Hole. Cast brightly-colored floating jigs and twister tails behind a slip sinker or 1/8-ounce lead-head jigs tipped with a twister tail and/or a shiner minnow.

The Cleveland Metroparks made its second stocking of about 600 pounds of 1- to 3-pound rainbow trout in the East Branch of the Rocky River. The best fishing will be the 3- to 4-mile stretch north of Rt. 82 in Strongsville.

INLAND LAKES, RESERVOIRS

The spring stockings of foot-long rainbow trout have begun, with the Ohio Division of Wildlife releasing trout on Wednesday in Granger Pond at Mentor’s Veterans Park in the Lake County Metroparks. A trout release is set for Tuesday at Hinckley Lake in Hinckley, Shadow Lake in Solon and the pond at the Westlake Recreation Center. Forest Hill Pond in East Cleveland and the Painesville Recreation Park Pond will be stocked with trout on Friday.

Ice cover that isn't safe for ice fishing has slowed the action at many lakes around the area, including Pymatuning and Mosquito reservoirs. Some crappie are being caught at both lakes from open waters along the causeways.

The Portage Lakes are quickly losing their ice. Crappie are being caught on Long Lake, where the crappie size limit has been removed this season. A top spot is the canal behind the Kiwanis building on Portage Lakes Dr. Crappie and bass are being caught off the new state park boat ramp at Rex and Turkey foot lakes. North Reservoir is traditionally a very good early season bass lake.

The Maumee and Sandusky river walleye runs are still slow, but anglers are already flocking to the prime areas. Look for warming waters and rain to kick off the spring walleye fishing over the next few days. Brightly colored floating jig heads and twister tails behind a slip sinker have been the top rigs in recent years.

LAKE ERIE

Walleye fishermen had been pushing the envelope and launching boats from Huron to west of Catawba Island. North winds this week had pushed some ice against the Ohio shoreline, but southerly winds in the forecast should open up Lake Erie again to early-season walleye anglers.

DOG TRIAL RESULTS

All-Breed Hunter’s Trial

South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association, Chatham Twp.

All-Age – Pointing: Bill Keplar, English pointer (EP), Huck; John Kelley, German shorthaired pointer (GSP), Casey; Marc Toennies, English setter, Hazel. Flushing: John Kelley, English springer spaniel (ESS), Titan; Lou Monaco, ESS, Casey; Terry Reckart, English cocker spaniel, Tracer.

Gun Dog – Pointing: Deb Hronek, EP, Marcy; Larry Jennings, GSP, Zeke; Brent Close, EP, Max. Flushing: John Kristof, golden retriever (GR), Molly; Dave Rydzinski, Labrador retriever (Lab), Ambur; Ron Burkey, Lab, Faith.

Derby – Pointing: Brent Close, EP, Mickey; Jimmy Nomikos, EP, Buckeye; Autumn Yafanaro, EP, Sampson. Flushing: No awards.

Puppy – Pointing: Bill Keplar, EP, Si; Dennis Barbish. EP, Josie. Flushing: Don Spice, GR, Jaxson.

The fourth annual Castapalooza! on April 12 at the Lake Metroparks Hidden Valley Reservation in Madison Twp. will help anglers celebrate the arrival of the spring steelhead trout season, now that winter is has finally loosened its grip on the Northeast Ohio streams.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The fourth annual Castapalooza! on April 12 at the Lake Metroparks Hidden Valley Reservation in Madison Twp. will help anglers celebrate the arrival of the spring steelhead trout season, now that winter has finally loosened its grip on the Northeast Ohio rivers and streams.

“It’s taken a little longer than usual, but the ice is finally gone from most of the rivers and streams and the steelhead trout fishing is heating up,” said Jerry Darkes, a Strongsville fly fishing expert. “Conneaut Creek still has a bit of an ice problem, but the warming weather should take care of that.”

Castapalooza! A Celebration of All Things Fly Fishing, is a free all-day adventure on the banks of the Grand River, with fly casting, fly tying and tackle rigging demonstrations by top local anglers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In the spotlight are Jeff Liskay of North Olmsted, Hudson’s Will Turek, Greg Senyo of Steelhead Alley Outfitters and Chautauqua Lake pro Steve Wascher of Greenhurst N.Y.

Hidden Valley Reservation is on Klasen Rd., off Rt. 528, just south of Exit 212 on Interstate 90.

“Fishermen should come out and bring questions,” said Darkes. “The demos are designed for both beginning fly fishers and more experienced anglers. It’s a fun day on the river, with games and prizes.”

Fly fishing for trout is the focus of the event, but Darkes is also debuting his new fly-tying book, “Fly Tyers Guide to Tying Essential Bass and Panfish Flies.” The book (Globe Pequot/Lyons Press, 128 pp., $22.95) is geared toward the novice tier, featuring 25 creations ranging from bottom bouncers to top water flies.

“This is the first updated guide on bass and panfish flies in more than a dozen years,” said Darkes. “Warm water fly fishing has exploded over the last decade, and so much has changed among the materials and components we now use to create fish-catching flies.”

This is the second fly fishing book Darkes has had published in the past few months. “Fly Fishing the Inland Oceans: An Angler’s Guide to Finding and Catching Fish in the Great Lakes” (Stackpole, 336 pp., $29.95) is an epic work covering a wide range of fish species and angling locations around the Great Lakes, with 337 color photos.

NRA bound: Harry Arnold (440-888-1163) of the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association has arranged a bus ride for a one-day visit to the National Rifle Association convention in Indianapolis on April 26. Cost is $50. The bus is making stops in Medina and Brookpark. Call to reserve a seat.

Fun at The Fin: The morel mushroom picking season is coming, and Feather Fur Outfitters has ‘shroomin’ seminars at its stores in Cleveland (Friday, March, noon-7 p.m.), Canton (Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and Ashland (Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.). The Ashland store is also hosting Buckeye Big Buck Club Free Scoring Day on Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Plant trees, help fish: Volunteers are needed to help plant streamside trees and vegetation along Berea’s Baldwin Creek in the Cleveland Metroparks’ Mill Stream Run Reservation on Saturday from 10 a.m.-noon. The trees improve water quality and aquatic habitat. Gather at the Baldwin Picnic Area on North Quarry Lane. Tools and refreshments are provided.

Coming right up: The raffle items are spectacular at the 36th annual banquet of the Trout Club of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History on April 5. ... In time for spring turkey, the South Cuyahoga Sportsmen’s Association has an Ohio Hunter Education Course on Saturday and Sunday in Chatham Twp. ... Monday is the online deadline to apply for the Castalia Fish Hatchery lottery. ... The Thundering Toms of Trumbull County and the Portage County Callers have annual National Wild Turkey Federation banquets on Friday and Saturday. ... Get birdy at the 14th annual Shreve Spring Migration Sensation in Shreve on Saturday.

All of the details for those events, and more, are in the Outdoor Calendar at cleveland.com/outdoors.

Conservation corner: A sad documentary revolving around the Pacific Garbage Patch is “Midway: A Message from The Gyre.” Laysan albatrosses nesting on Midway -- one of the most remote islands on the planet – mistakenly bring bits of plastic from the floating mess back to feed baby albatrosses. Tens of thousands of the young birds die each year.

The short clip can be found at: http://bit.ly/1o1PsyW. A feature film is planned for spring.

Johnny Manziel rocked his Pro Day in front of 30 NFL teams, excluding the Browns and Dolphins. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- It takes a lot to dazzle former NFL MVP and Super Bowl MVP quarterback Kurt Warner, but Johnny Manziel did just that during his 45-minute Pro Day Thursday.

"He made me say 'Wow!''' Warner said on NFL Network during Johnny Football's spectacle at Texas A&M.

The Browns and Dolphins were the only two teams not represented at the workout, according to Charean Williams of the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, and boy did they miss a doozy. 

The Browns will soon conduct a private workout with Manziel, who's on the radar for their No. 4 overall pick, but they missed watching his 61-of-64 performance live, including plenty of eye-popping 50- and 60-yard throws on the run.

"I don't think there's very many guys even at the National Football League level that can make those kind of throws,'' Warner told Manziel on the NFL Network set.

Warner also said during the showcase, "With what we've seen, he's been extremely impressive. Overall, I think he's been really, really solid.''

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Manziel's workout No. 1 among the big three, with Blake Bortles second and Teddy Bridgewater third. He predicted Manziel will go as high as No. 3 to Jacksonville.

ESPN's Bill Polian observed that Manziel has "quick, nimble feet,'' but expressed concern that he threw with a lower arm angle, meaning he'll play to his 5-11 height.

Warner, who mostly praised Manziel, also expressed concerned about the arm angle.

"He's dropping his elbow a little bit and throwing it sidearmed,'' Warner said. "You have to get that elbow up to throw it over a linebacker. His deep ball has been impeccable, but on the shorter throws, he's dropping his arm.''

NFL Network Mike Mayock observed that, "He can make every throw mechanically. His arm strength is on par with that of Bortles. He had that beautiful spontaneity on the run and he's confirmed many things. He's not opening up questions for me like Bridgewater did.''

Manziel, who threw in front of eight NFL head coaches, including five with top-10 picks, threw with a helmet and shoulder pads on -- rare for a Pro Day workout.

"My main thing was, I'm not scared of anything,'' Manziel told NFL Network. "I don't play that way on the field, why come out here in a scripted workout and be scared of anything? It's the game we all love, let's throw the pigskin around and have some fun. Let's make it as challenging as we possibly could, let's get throws on the run, let's get stuff in the pocket to reset, let's go out and have fun more than anything.''

He said the deep balls on the move were his idea, "especially the two rollouts on the deep slot corners. They didn't know if I could get out there and make that throw like that, it's probably 50-something yards on the run and I felt extremely comfortable doing it.

"For me the main thing was, we were striving for perfection. One ball hit the ground, so a little disappointed in that, but at the same time, I wanted to make it as challenging as possible and show these guys I'm not scared of anything. I can make any of these throws out here on the field and hopefully compete with anybody.''

As for the necessarily pro skill of throwing from the pocket, he said, "Absolutely. I'm an extremely coachable kid, and I'm ready to learn. That's the biggest thing for me. ''

In regard to off-the-field concerns, he said, "I just want to let these guys know that my focus is football. This is my life. This is what I love to do. I've never been more dedicated and committed in my entire life. I'm so excited. I understand the challenge and the jump. There's no denying that.

"I want to be one of those (stars) one day. I know that the people that I have around me, and the people that I've talked to in those positions, whether it's Peyton Manning, whether it's Tom Brady, I see what it takes for them to be great. You have to put the time in. You have to be dedicated to it 100 percent that way.''

He began the workout by thanking the coaches and GMs in attendance, a group that included head coaches Philadelphia's Chip Kelly, Houston's Bill O'Brien, Pittsburgh's Mike Tomlin, Minnesota's Mike Zimmer and Detroit's Jim Caldwell.

"I wanted to thank them for coming out,'' he told ESPN. "It's kind of tough to get here. I just wanted to thank them and hopefully they enjoyed the day.''

He said he decided two weeks before the NFL Scouting Combine to conduct his Pro Day in the helmet and shoulder pads.

"I've never seen anybody trot out on the field with shorts and a T-shirt on,'' he said. "I'm a guy that I don't have anything to hide. I felt like I could come out here and make any throw that these guys asked me to and I'd do it in shoulder pads.''

Manziel's workout also drew a shout-out on twitter from his friend LeBron James.

Just finished watching my bro @JManziel2 pro day!! Don't take him if u want 2. He's a flat out STAR! Accuracy on point! #StriveForGreatness

— LeBron James (@KingJames) March 27, 2014

Check back later for more coverage of Manziel's Pro Day from Tom Reed, who's in College Station, Texas.

Does the Midwest still look like the NCAA tournament's toughest region?

It didn't take long for the sports pundits to strike once the lineup for the Midwest Region -- aka the "Region of Death" -- was announced on Selection Sunday. Sports pundits and rabid fans alike voiced their bewilderment at the level of competition wedged into that section of the bracket. If a team as good as Louisville can earn just a No. 4 seed, many argued, is this region perhaps too good?

With unbeaten Wichita State claiming the No. 1 seed, the next three slots went to Michigan, Duke and Louisville, respectively. The "eye test" alone sure seemed to indicate that this region was superior to the others. But do we really want so many good teams squaring off so early, people wondered? Critics argued that the tournament's other No. 1 seeds faced a softer level of competition than confronted Wichita State in the Midwest. Was a potential gauntlet of Kentucky, Louisville and either Duke or Michigan a fair draw for a team that finished the season undefeated?

Looking back now, we have the luxury of asking: Did these cries of disparity hold true?

Wither Wichita State?

Wichita State head coach Gregg Marshall walks the sideline against Kentucky during the second half of a third-round game of the NCAA college basketball tournament Sunday, March 23, 2014, in St. Louis. Kentucky won 78-76. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Using statistician Ken Pomeroy's ratings -- which looks at a team's performance in wins and losses, and not just the overall record -- the Shockers were the nation's fifth-best team entering the tournament, behind Arizona, Florida, Louisville and Virginia. (With Wichita State and Louisville, the Midwest is the only region to host two of Pomeroy's top five teams.)

Despite entering the tournament with an unblemished 34-0 record, Wichita State was challenged by the Selection Committee from the get-go. The Shockers ultimately lost to Kentucky in the Round of 32, but they faced an uphill battle even if they had beaten the Wildcats. Had the top four seeds all advanced as far as the Sweet 16, Wichita State's road to the Final Four would have run through Louisville and either Michigan or Duke, all of whom rank in Pomeroy's top 12.

Conversely, let's take the East Region, where Virginia claimed the No.1 seed. Based again on the next three seeds, the Cavaliers potentially could have faced Michigan State and either Villanova or Iowa State -- who rank eighth, 14th and 19th in Pomeroy's ratings, respectively -- on their way to the Final Four. Not quite as tall a task as the Shockers faced in third-ranked Louisville, then tenth-ranked Michigan or 12th-ranked Duke, had everything gone according to plan, so to speak.

Now let's get back to reality: The Shockers did play No. 8 seed Kentucky and they did lose, albeit in close fashion. So what do we make of that? Does the early exit prove that Wichita State's record was inflated by a soft regular-season schedule, thereby justifying the draw given to the Shockers by the Selection Committee? Well, yes and no. Yes, they played a soft schedule, and perhaps they should have been made to prove their worth in a tough region because of it. But they were also thrown into a region so brutally talented than any No. 1 seed would have had just cause to gripe.

What about Kentucky and Tennessee?

Looking at Kentucky and Tennessee -- those two "surprise" teams that are still hanging around in the Midwest -- provides further context as to the validity of this "Region of Death" argument. Because, sure, Wichita State was in the same region as other powerhouses. But even the middling seeds in this region were better than most others. 

Using Pomeroy's index, Kentucky is the 13th-best team in the nation. But in truth, the Wildcats would probably be higher had they not suffered from some early-season struggles. With a team full of freshman itching to make the leap to the NBA, Kentucky needed time to jell. And remember: These ratings aren't based on wins and losses, but on the quality of wins and losses. And Kentucky is a pretty good team in that regard, as their average margin of defeat this season was six points. So they are ranked 13th, but they should probably be in the top 10 based on the team they were at the end of the season.

For comparison's sake, the other No. 8 seeds in the Big Dance -- Memphis, Pittsburgh and Gonzaga -- rank 39, 17 and 23. This means that in addition to a ruthlessly tough lineup at the top of the region, the Shockers were also dealt a far superior No. 8 seed than the other No. 1 seeds. 

That Kentucky beat Kansas State in the Round of 64 wasn't really a surprise. Same goes for the 11th-seeded Vols, who are currently sixth in Pomeroy's index. Tennessee had some damaging losses to the likes of North Carolina State and Texas A&M (twice) during the season. But they also gave Florida a serious scare in the SEC tournament -- as did Kentucky -- before a late-game collapse doomed them. Oh, and the other No. 11 seeds in the tourney? They all rank between 46 and 49. Think of it this way: Why is Dayton, also a No. 11 seed, considered the tournament Cinderella rather than Tennessee? Because people expected more out of the talented Vols, regardless of their seed.

The powerhouse schools earned the "Region of Death" its moniker, but it was the inclusion of these two deceptively powerful teams among the region's lower seeds that made the Midwest truly lethal.

The pesky upset

Duke guard Rasheed Sulaimon (14) walks off the court during the second half of an NCAA college basketball second-round game against Mercer, Friday, March 21, 2014, in Raleigh, N.C. Mercer won 78-71. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Duke's one-and-done performance would seem to undermine the notion that the Midwest was as good as advertised. But make no mistake about it: Mercer's upset over Duke was just that -- an upset. As much as Mercer -- with five seniors in its starting lineup -- won this one, Duke really lost it with a terrible performance. Nobody could have predicted that, which is, I suppose, the beauty of college basketball.

But, does the fact that Duke lost take away some merit from the "Region of Death" claim? Absolutely, if you're judging the validity of that nickname on results. But when the Selection Committee was assembling the lineup there was never any evidence to suggest that this might happen. So a one-game, probably-would-never-happen-again upset, shocking as it may be, doesn't really tarnish the talent level collected in the Midwest.

Duke's flop was kind of like the 2007 New England Patriots: They lost the Super Bowl, but were the New York Giants really a better team, or did Big Blue just get lucky at the opportune moment?

Proof of "Death"

With two of the top four seeds knocked out, the "Region of Death" scenario as it was envisioned wound up unraveling. But what we are left with instead is a collection of top-flight basketball squads from top to bottom, and, in effect, a stronger argument that the Midwest is the NCAA tournament's elite region.

Five-star running back Damien Harris Tweeted a picture of his top 10 on Friday morning, but a report indicates Ohio State stands out with three other programs.

Unlike last year when Jason Kipnis had a terrible spring training, but still made his first All-Star team, this spring he had a great Cactus League season. Just what that means for the season ahead remains to be seen.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here is a three-tiered look at the Indians overall situation at second base from the big leagues, to who would get the first call from the minors if help was needed, and who are the prospects who could help in the years to come:

Indians

Jason Kipnis had a breakout year last season. He went to the All-Star Game, hit .419 in June and became the first second baseman to lead the team in RBI (84) since Hall of Famer Joe Gordon in 1948. 

He is the first Indians player since Grady Sizemore in 2008 to hit at least 15 homers and steal 30 or more bases in one year.

There are two questions that must be answered with Kipnis: Can he get better? And when will the Indians and Kipnis' agents work out an extension? Including this season, the Indians control Kipnis four four more years, but it would be nice to have ownership buy out a couple of his free-agent years.

Utility men Mike Aviles and Elliot Johnson will back up Kipnis at second.

Phone call away

The Indians will have three versatile infielders at Class AAA Columbus in Jose Ramirez, Justin Sellers and Ryan Rohlinger, who could all help. Ramirez, a September call-up last year, is recovered from left thumb surgery. Sellers is expected to start at shortstop at Columbus.

Fire down below

The Tribe will have a bunch of middle infielders at Class AA Akron to watch, including Francisco Lindor, Joe Wendle, Ronnie Rodriguez and Giovanny Urshella. Don't be alarmed because Lindor is scheduled to play shortstop every day for the Rubberducks, but he could probably make due at second base if the Indians had a real need.

Another name to remember is Cuban infielder Yanny Diaz, 22. The Indians signed him at the same time they signed right-hander Leandro Linares last year. He should start at Class A Carolina or Class A Lake County.

Catch all the Indians position-by-position previews being posted Friday:

• 10:30 a.m.: First base
• 11:30 a.m.: Second base
• 
  12:30 p.m.: Shortstop
• 
  1:30 p.m.: Third base
• 
  2:30 p.m.: Left field
• 
  3:30 p.m.: Center field
• 
  4:30 p.m.: Right field
• 
  5:30 p.m.: Catcher
• 
  6:30 p.m.: Designated hitter
• 
  7:30 p.m.: The rotation
• 
  8:30 p.m.: The bullpen

In an interview with the New Yorker, Kobe Bryant said African-Americans should not immediately rush to the defense of a black person simply because of his or her race. He specifically criticized Lebron James and the Miami Heat for posting a photo wearing hoodies in solidarity with Trayvon Martin's family.

Kobe Bryant is shown here in the final moments of a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012. Comments the Los Angeles Lakers star made about the Trayvon Martin case in an interview have put him in the middle of a social media firestorm. (Lisa DeJong/The Plain Dealer)

Comments Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant made about the Trayvon Martin case have put him in the middle of a social media firestorm.

In an interview with the New Yorker, Bryant said black people should not immediately rush to the defense of a black person simply because of his or her race. He specifically criticized Lebron James and the Miami Heat for posting a photo wearing hoodies in solidarity with Martin's family, according to Colorlines.

"I won't react to something just because I'm supposed to, because I'm an African-American," he said. "That argument doesn't make any sense to me. So we want to advance as a society and a culture, but, say, if something happens to an African-American we immediately come to his defense? Yet you want to talk about how far we've progressed as a society?

"Well, we've progressed as a society, then don't jump to somebody's defense just because they're African-American. You sit and you listen to the facts just like you would in any other situation, right? So I won't assert myself."

George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch leader in Sanford, Fla., killed Martin, 17, in February 2012 as the boy was heading home from the store. Martin was wearing a hoodie at the time and that became a symbol of the Martin-Zimmerman story. In July 2013, Zimmerman was acquitted of all charges in connection with the shooting.

People unhappy with Bryant's comments took to Twitter to voice their opinions. Among the responses:

"The more I think about Kobe Bryant's comments on the people jumping to Trayvon's defense w/o knowing facts, the more hypocritical he seems," tweeted Jake Dawson.

"Kobe Bryant's statement about Trayvon Martin makes me dislike him even more," tweeted O is for Oblectation.

Not all the Tweets expressed displeasure with Bryant. Black Conservatives tweeted, "Nothing was wrong w/ Kobe Bryant's statement. The only thing wrong was he was telling the truth. Illuminati mess all over the Trayvon case."

Bryant himself sent out a Tweet about his statements, as The Root reported: "Travon Martin was wronged THATS my opinion and thats what I believe the FACTS showed. The system did not work."

Shortstops always seem to be the center of attention, but Asdrubal Cabrera could really be under a microscope this year. If the Indians contend, will they try to re-sign him? If they go in the tank, how soon before they trade him?

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here is a three-tiered look at the Indians' overall situation at shortstop, from the big leagues, to who would get the first call from the minors if help was needed, and who are the prospects who could help in the years to come:

Indians

Defensive end Joey Bosa said new coach Larry Johnson has a different style than Mike Vrabel. "He's more positive, I dare say," Bosa said.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The Buckeyes replaced a 38-year-old coach who made a three-year stopover in college in the midst of an NFL life with a 61-year-old coach who spent 19 years at Penn State after more than a decade as a high school coach.

The switch from Mike Vrabel, who left to coach with the Houston Texans, to Larry Johnson as Ohio State's defensive line coach has been different.

"It's just a different attitude," said rising sophomore defensive end Joey Bosa on Thursday. "(Johnson) is more positive, I dare say."

"The biggest difference is Coach Johnson doesn't curse," said Michael Bennett, a senior who is expected to be the leader on the line. "They both yell at you, they both pat you on the back, they both for the most part teach the same stuff. Coach Johnson doesn't curse.

"Coach Vrabel had more, like, an NFL aspect to it. Coach Johnson is more likely to treat you like the 18-year-old you are, while Coach Vrabel wanted to treat you like a grown man. Coach Vrabel, he just would expect more of you quicker than Coach Johnson, while Coach Johnson will let you feel it through."

Bennett said if he was a younger player he'd probably want to be treated more like a kid, but as a senior he's ready to be treated like a grown man, which he got from both coaches at this age. He said he loves both coaches. As for the cursing?

"It was funny," Bennett said with a laugh. "Sometimes it was less funny than others."

The Buckeyes liked Vrabel. Bosa's father, John, before the Orange Bowl praised the NFL technique his son was getting, which he felt was preparing for him for the pros. But there was little doubt what you were in for. Vrabel would smile and run with his players onto the practice field, looking like a player himself, and then get on them.

Johnson will get on them, too. But in his own way.

For instance, Bosa referred to Johnson as Coach J. He said the players can call him Coach, Coach Johnson, Coach J, whatever, as long as they don't call him Larry. Could he have imagined addressing Vrabel as Coach V?

"No, that would be bad," Bosa said. "I'm trying not to think about it."

“My style is different, it really is,” Johnson said. “I’m a teacher first. And then I’m going to do all the things I can as fast as I can. I’m trying to play the game in practice. That’s a different style and these guys are buying into it. Not one guy is questioning what we’ve done. And that’s pretty neat.”

That may not be exactly how Vrabel would have described it.

A lot of people laughed when the Indians said Santana was going to winter ball in December to try and make the conversion from catcher to the hot corner. They still might be laughing at the end of April, but Santana did show improvement through the course of spring training.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here is a three-tiered look at the Indians' overall situation at third base, from the big leagues, to who would get the first call from the minors if help was needed, and who are the prospects who could help in the years to come:

Indians

Manager Terry Francona said earlier this week that Carlos Santana will probably be his starting third baseman when the season opens Monday in Oakland. A lot of people laughed when the Indians said Santana was going to winter ball in December to try to make the conversion from catcher to the hot corner. They still might be laughing at the end of April, but Santana did show improvement through the course of spring training.

The switch-hitting Santana will share the job with Lonnie Chisenhall, who also made the opening-day roster despite much speculation to the contrary at the start of camp. How long Chisenhall stays with the club is a matter of conjecture. He has an option left, and Jason Giambi and Michael Bourn are scheduled to come off the disabled list soon.

If Santana needs defensive help in the late innings, manager Terry Francona can insert Mike Aviles, Elliot Johnson or Chisenhall.

Phone call away

One thing is certain, the Indians don't have a prototype power-hitting third baseman in the system. Justin Sellers, Ryan Rohlinger and Jose Ramirez will be rotating throughout the infield at Class AAA Columbus. They can all play third, butl Rohlinger has the most experience, including big-league time with the Giants.

Fire down below

Giovanny Urshella is a true third baseman with a good glove. He'll be at Class AA Akron, but he's never hit well enough to make a serious push to the big leagues. Ronny Rodriguez at Akron and Yaddy Diaz at Class A Carolina are possibilities as well.

Catch all the Indians position-by-position previews being posted Friday:

• 10:30 a.m.: First base
• 11:30 a.m.: Second base
• 
  12:30 p.m.: Shortstop
• 
  1:30 p.m.: Third base
• 
  2:30 p.m.: Left field
• 
  3:30 p.m.: Center field
• 
  4:30 p.m.: Right field
• 
  5:30 p.m.: Catcher
• 
  6:30 p.m.: Designated hitter
• 
  7:30 p.m.: The rotation
• 
  8:30 p.m.: The bullpen

Gee played and started every game for the Cavaliers last season. Although he's gone stretches not playing this season, he's back in Mike Brown's rotation.

NEW YORK – Alonzo Gee might have accumulated 19 DNP-CDs this season, but that doesn't mean the Cavaliers swingman has ever fallen out of favor with coach Mike Brown.

"He could always play, it just was a numbers thing and me still searching throughout the course of the season," Brown said. "So mainly it was an injury thing [that led to playing him recently], but as you guys can see, he's definitely a more than capable player."

He's likely to earn more time tonight against Brooklyn trying to stop the reigning Eastern Conference Player of the Week, Joe Johnson. Johnson averaged 22.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists in four Nets victories last week.

Gee has averaged 21.2 minutes in the last six games, including starting three when Luol Deng sat with an ankle injury. He's contributed an average of 8.5 points in that stretch, as well, but Brown, of course likes most the defense for which Gee always has been known most.

It's a bit of a change from when Gee played and started all 82 games for the Cavaliers last season, but Brown has been impressed with how Gee has handled the new role.

"Zo's been tremendous, whether he's started and I took him out, or he's played some and I took him out, he's been the same guy every day," Brown said. "He's professional, he comes to work, he's always ready when we call on him. Guys like that are invaluable, not only because they help the team, but also because it helps set the tone for the culture of the team."

Cavs vs. Brooklyn

Probable starters: Cavs -- F Luol Deng, F Tristan Thompson, C Spencer Hawes, G Dion Waiters, G Jarrett Jack. Nets -- F Joe Johnson, F Paul Pierce, C Mason Plumlee, G Shaun Livingston, G Deron Williams.

Injuries: Cavs -- Kyrie Irving (strained left biceps), C.J. Miles (sprained left ankle), Anthony Bennett (strained left knee tendon), Sergery Karasev (right knee tendonitis), Carrick Felix (stress fracture, left knee) are out. Nets – Kevin Garnett (back spasms), Andrei Kirilenko (sprained left ankle) and Brook Lopez (fractured right foot) are out.

Officials: Rodney Mott, Sean Corbin, Eric Dalen.

Up next for Cavs: Sunday vs. Indiana.

The Cleveland Browns have a hole opposite Josh Gordon at wide receiver, and a Pro Bowler just became available.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Cleveland Browns have a hole opposite Josh Gordon at wide receiver, and a Pro Bowler just became available.

After reported failed attempts at trading him, the Eagles announced the stunning release of DeSean Jackson.

The team released the following statement in a tweet: "After careful consideration this offseason, Eagles decide to part ways with DeSean Jackson. The team informed him of his release today."

Jackson is 27 years old and coming off a season where he either established or matched his career best totals in catches (82), yards (1,332) and touchdowns (nine). But the playmaker reportedly comes with baggage, which became too much for Philadelphia. The off-the-field issues were outlined by nj.com. About an hour later his release was announced.

Will Michael Brantley open the season in left or center field for the Tribe?

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Here is a three-tiered look at the Indians' overall left field situation, from the big leagues, to who would get the first call from the minors if help was needed, and who are the prospects to watch:

Indians

Left field belongs to Michael Brantley, but he could open the season in center field because of Michael Bourn's strained left hamstring. Brantley is a natural center fielder and played there the entire 2012 season for the Tribe.

In the last two years, Brantley hit .288 in 2012 and .284 in 2013. Defensively, he did not make an error last year in 151 games and has played a franchise-record 254 games without making an error entering this season.

Brantley made at least one start in all of the first eight spots of manager Terry Francona's lineup last year and hit wherever he was placed. Brantley led the club with a .375 (45-for-120) average with runners in scoring position. When the Indians went 21-6 in September to claim a spot in the one-game wild card playoff, Brantley hit .345 (29-for-84).

If Brantley starts in center, Nyjer Morgan would probably start in left. Mike Aviles, Elliot Johnson and David Murphy are options. Murphy started 106 games in left field last year for Texas.

Phone call away

Matt Carson and Tim Fedroff, stationed at Class AAA Columbus, can play left field.

Fire down below

Tyler Holt and Bryson Myles, who are expected to start the year at Class AA Akron, are possibilities.

Catch all the Indians position-by-position previews being posted Friday:

• 10:30 a.m.: First base
• 11:30 a.m.: Second base
• 12:30 p.m.: Shortstop
• 1:30 p.m.: Third base
• 2:30 p.m.: Left field
• 3:30 p.m.: Center field
• 4:30 p.m.: Right field
• 5:30 p.m.: Catcher
• 6:30 p.m.: Designated hitter
• 7:30 p.m.: The rotation
• 8:30 p.m.: The bullpen

League might add a playoff team and eliminate one first-round bye in each conference.

HOUSTON, Texas – There was time when the National Hockey League played an 80-game regular-season schedule only to eliminate five clubs from its 16-team playoff format.

Even by those relaxed standards Browns fans would have been prepping for the draft in December each of the last six years, a towering testament to franchise incompetence.

But those with good memories still recall the sting of missing the playoffs with a 10-6 record in 2007. The Arizona Cardinals knew the feeling a season ago, registering the same mark while competing in the NFL’s toughest division.

So it’s encouraging to hear the league is pushing toward playoff expansion in the near future. Commissioner Roger Goodell said at this week’s NFL Annual Meeting “there’s a tremendous amount of interest” in the plan. Cynics understand that’s code for owners wanting to increase television revenue. Cue the Mark Cuban swine analogies.

There’s an air of inevitability about inflating the playoff pool. Most expect the field to bump from 12 to 14 teams with only one club in each conference earning an opening-round bye. Sports Illustrated’s Gred Bedard makes a reasoned argument for adopting a 16-team format and abolishing byes, a model employed in the NHL and NBA.

Some fans will balk at these ideas. They worry about diluting the product.

Folks, did you watch AFC games last season? That’s the very definition of watered down. The New England Patriots and Denver Broncos are engaging in spectacular off-season roster enhancements for the right to lose by two touchdowns to either Seattle or San Francisco in the next Super Bowl. Not to worry, the league is set up for conferences and franchises to cycle through lows and highs. At least that's what they keep telling us in Cleveland.

The NFL is the most powerful and popular sports league in North America, but it’s not without problems. Player-safety concerns top the agenda and likely ensure Goodell will never get the union to accept an 18-game regular season.

The short and unbalanced schedules are why the league needs playoff expansion. Beyond their lousy draft history and poor play, the Browns have competed in arguably the best division since their 1999 return. The other major sports leagues tout more games and more balance in scheduling. The Cavs and Miami Heat have similar schedules despite playing in different schedules. The Browns and Dolphins? Not so much.

Adding a playoff team to each NFL conference should not lead to muni-course hackers qualifying for grand-slam events. Over the past decade, 14 of the 20 seventh-place teams in the two conferences had winning records, according the SI article. That includes the 2007 Browns.

Lest we forget, four wild-card qualifiers have won Super Bowls in the past 14 years.

Not everything about the new playoff proposal is appealing. Talk of introducing an opening-round Monday night game seems ludicrous. (First-round formats would call for three games in each conference.) Players are so beat up already that penalizing the Monday-night winner with one or two fewer days of rest than its next opponent doesn’t make sense.

That leads to another issue: exposing four more teams to an extra week of punishment. (Two playoff qualifiers, two fewer byes). The players association should lobby for a reduction in preseason games and a spike in postseason pay. Paychecks from teams are based on a 17-week regular season and postseason money from the NFL is a relative pittance (between $21,000 and $23,000 for first-round participants.)

I’m still in favor of rewarding at least one team with a bye, but Bedard’s sweet-16 model is compelling.

Playoff expansion is coming, it’s just a matter of when and in what form. It will add late-season intrigue and keep more fan bases engaged.

The NFL is doing its part. Now, it’s up to the Browns.

Ross scored 15.2 points per game for the Buckeyes, more than four points per game more than any of his teammates.

COLUMBUS, Ohio - LaQuinton Ross has played his last game as an Ohio State Buckeye. He's heading to the pros, with Ohio State making the official announcement on Friday afternoon.

“My experience at Ohio State has been incredible,” Ross said in a statement released by the school. “Coach Matta, my teammates and the staff were amazing to work with on a daily basis. My goal has always been to play at the next level and I believe now is the best time.”

“LaQuinton was an instrumental part of our success over the last three years,” Ohio State coach Thad Matta said in the same statement. “His goal is to compete at the highest level possible. He will have that opportunity because of the work he has put in to prepare for this day. He will be missed at Ohio State and we wish him nothing but the very best.”

The news confirmed a report from ESPN's Jeff Goodman on Monday that said Ross was leaving Columbus. Ross led the Buckeyes in scoring as a junior, averaging 15.2 points per game, nearly doubling his average from his sophomore season.

Ross is the ninth Buckeye to leave the program early for the pros in Matta's 10 seasons at Ohio State. Greg Oden, Mike Conley Jr., Daequan Cook, Kosta Koufos and B.J. Mullens left after as freshmen. Jared Sullinger left his sophomore season. And Evan Turner, Deshaun Thomas and Ross departed as juniors.

Ross is ranked No. 32 on the draft board of ESPN.com analyst Chad Ford.

DraftExpress.com lists Ross as the 50th player off the board in its mock draft, as the No. 18 pick in the second round to Chicago.

NBADraft.net lists Ross as the No. 42 overall pick, No. 12 in the second round, to Denver in its mock draft.