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The other top pick: Anthony Bennett is out to prove to everybody that he can play after rocky first season

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Anthony Bennett has shown up in Las Vegas with a different mindset, trying to erase the bad memories from 2013-14.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The story of Anthony Bennett's rookie season last year read like a horror novel.

The joy of being the first overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft quickly turned to frustration as Bennett dealt with one issue after another. It all culminated in one of the worst rookie seasons from a top pick in NBA history.

First, surgery for a torn labrum cost him a chance to play in last year's summer league. By the time he recovered, he showed up to training camp looking nothing like the Mountain West Conference Player of the Year. Overweight and out of shape, Bennett had a hard time just getting up and down the court consistently without calling for a sub. It never got better as Bennett crumbled under the burden of being the top pick in the draft.

"I was just putting a lot of pressure on myself," Bennett said following the Cleveland Cavaliers' 82-70 win on Sunday against the San Antonio Spurs in summer league. "Things weren't going right for me. It was just everything collapsing and everything building up. Got down on myself."

During his rookie season, Bennett missed his first 16 shots from the field, and finished the year shooting a putrid 35.6 percent from the field while making just 24.5 percent from the three-point line. He finished the year averaging 4.2 points to go along with 3.0 rebounds in 52 games - hardly the production expected from the top pick in the draft, even in a class that was considered weak.

But Bennett has shown up in Las Vegas with a different mindset, trying to erase the bad memories from 2013-14.

"I just want to go out there and prove to everybody I can play," he said. "Last year was a setback for me with the shoulder stuff. Just trying to put that in the past. Just trying to come out here and have fun."

Bennett said he's lost between 15 and 20 pounds since the end of last season and is now back down around 240. He played a team-high 30 minutes during the team's second game of summer league, scoring 13 points on 5-for-8 shooting while grabbing a team-high 14 rebounds.

He's made a strong first impression on Cavs head coach David Blatt.

"AB has been good since day one since I came," Blatt said. "He's really working hard to get himself in shape. He's really, really trying to do a lot of different things on the court to help the team. It's a work in progress but he's doing a great job.

"I came in and Anthony came in with a clean slate. Physically he's really worked hard and I think that's the most important thing is for him to get into shape to be the kind of player he can be. Last year is in the past. We're looking ahead and I really believe and hope that Anthony can be a part of what is ahead."

Before the Cavs tipped off Friday night's game against the Milwaukee Bucks, the excitement surrounded this year's first overall pick, Andrew Wiggins, but the first five questions to Blatt following Sunday's game revolved around one player: Bennett.

"What is this, the Anthony Bennett show," Blatt jokingly asked reporters.

Back in the city where Bennett played his college ball for one season, the 2013 top pick has momentarily regained his form, and most importantly, his confidence.

Miami Heat not ready to throw in the towel: Miami's dreams of a fifth-straight trip to the NBA Finals went up in smoke when LeBron James, the biggest off-season prize, chose to go back home to the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, Heat president Pat Riley is looking to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference, and his first few moves could make that a reality. The first goal was getting Chris Bosh to turn down a contract, and perhaps better situation, with the upstart Houston Rockets. Bosh agreed to a max deal, staying in South Beach and welcoming the challenge of a new role.

In Miami, Bosh was known as CB1. It wasn't just a nickname it was a mindset. He knew for Miami to be a championship-level team he was going to have to change his game. That meant less shots, less post-ups, more screens and spacing the floor to make things easier for James and Dwyane Wade. This upcoming year, Bosh may have to revert back to his old moniker, CB4, which helped him become Toronto's all-time leading scorer.

But Riley didn't stop with Bosh. The smooth-talking executive got an agreement from Luol Deng on Sunday. Deng, who was said to be looking for $12M-$13M per year, will get a two-year, $20 million contract. He's not James. Nobody is. But Deng is a pro and was one of the best swingmen on the market this off-season. These moves equal good news for the Cavs as the wine and gold own Miami's first round pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, provided it doesn't fall in the top 10. With these moves and the possibility of re-upping Wade, the Cavs might be getting Miami's selection.

The new guy: Second round pick Joe Harris missed the Cavs' summer league opener with a sprained ankle suffered in practice. On Sunday, Harris made his debut. Inserted into the starting lineup, Harris finished with 4 points on 2-for-6 shooting. He played 21 minutes in the win. On draft night, a team in the midst of a rebuild selected him. Now, he's on a title contender not knowing what his role will be.

"You never know, but at the same time it's also very exciting that you're part of an organization where you're going to have an opportunity to win right away," Harris said following his debut. "Regardless of the pecking order, the fact that the team is winning and has success is the most important thing."

LeBron James' return has people flashing back to where they were upon hearing the news, and Harris has his own story to tell.

"It's pretty funny," he said. "I think (James) announced it in the morning of our shootaround. I got back to the bus and checked the phone and I had like hundreds of text messages. It's insane. Pretty cool though."

Andrew Wiggins puts on show during pregame warm-ups: Before he finished with 13 points on 3-of-11 from the field against the Spurs, Wiggins delighted the crowd, displaying the incredible athleticism that helped him soar to the top spot in this year's NBA draft. If this was Wiggins' audition for the dunk contest during All-Star weekend then my vote goes to him.

Cherry on top: Last year, Matthew Dellavedova was an afterthought when the season began, but Delly, as he is affectionately called, became much more than that by the end of the season. The Australian guard brought energy, toughness and a defensive-mentality to the Cavs' second unit. His feistiness led to him receiving more than 17 minutes per game, a number that increased even more by the time the season wrapped up.

Will Cherry could be this summer's Dellavedova. Last year in summer league, Cherry was glued to the bench, fighting through a foot injury. This year, Cherry is healthy. He led the Cavs in scoring on Sunday with 21 points in 23 minutes after scoring seven in Friday's win against the Milwaukee Bucks.

"I think being healthy there's no explanation for it," Cherry said following his breakout performance. "Being hurt for a whole year you forget how it felt to be healthy. All the moves I was out there doing I felt a little pressure on my foot. Now I have the screw in there, I'm 100 percent and I feel better than I ever have."

He also explains how his health has led to a knew attitude: "That's where a lot of the intensity and fun comes in because I know there's nothing holding me back and I can just go out and play the game."

Cherry, who played for the Canton Charge last year, knows he's fighting an uphill battle to make the roster, but he's hoping his defense will help him stand out to the coaching staff.

"Coming out I was a defensive player, Cherry explained. "That was one of my biggest strengths. Come out there and control the opposing guard and make him feel uncomfortable. All of my career I've been more of an all-around player. I've been working on my shot, but I know defense is the one consistent. That's effort, you can't teach that. I always rely on my defense and sometimes defense is the best way to get your offensive game going."

Blatt exchanging text messages with LeBron James: The 2014 World Cup wrapped up today, and LeBron James was a spectator. The new Cavs head coach is staying in touch with his new superstar any way possible.

"I did not have a conversation (with LeBron), but I have exchanged texts with him," Blatt said. "LeBron is in the middle of a Brazilian tour and I'm leaving him alone because he has been through enough the last few weeks."

It hasn't stopped Blatt from thinking about all the possibilities the team will have on offense now.

"This just happened and I'm just trying to get over the excitement knowing full well that I have a big job figuring out the best way for us to play and utilize the many, many possibilities that are at our disposal," he said. "Our set of limitations has changed and raised exponentially. There are a lot of possibilities to be considered. I'm glad that we're building the team with guys that really want to play and play right.

"David Griffin and our organization are not done. We still have some more pieces to fill. When we do I will be able to speak more intelligently about what kinds of things we're going to do."


Akron RubberDucks come out on short end against Trenton Thunder's Jaron Long

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No RubberDucks batter gets more than one hit against Jaron Long in a 5-1 loss in Trenton.

Akron hitters struggled against Thunder starter Jaron Long, mustering only six hits against Long and seven overall in a 5-1 loss Sunday in a Class AA Eastern League game in Trenton, N.J.

vonSchamann_Duke.pngView full sizePitcher Duke von Schamann 

No RubberDucks batter got more than one hit and they offered little threat to Long (2-0, 3.00 ERA) until the seventh inning.

Trailing, 4-1, the RubberDucks loaded the bases with one out after three straight singles by first baseman Bryan LaHair, outfielder Anthony Gallas and catcher Jake Lowery.

Second baseman Ronny Rodriguez drew a walk off Long to bring in the RubberDucks only run.

Reliever James Pazos replaced Long and struck out outfielder Jordan Smith. The inning ended moments later when Thunder catcher Francisco Arcia picked off Rodriguez at first.

The RubberDucks would not threaten again, with Pazos pitching 2 2/3 scoreless innings for the save. Pazos had four strikeouts.

RubberDucks starter Duke von Schamann (3-5, 4.61) gave up five runs on 10 hits in seven innings. Reliever Trey Haley pitched one scoreless inning. 

Cleveland Browns to use live dog as a mascot for the upcoming season

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Browns expected to have a bullmastiff lead team onto the field.

BEREA, Ohio -- The Browns reportedly are entering the live mascot business. 

Kevin Griffin, the Browns vice president of fan experience and marketing, told 92.3 The Fan on Sunday the club will use a bullmastiff as its mascot this season after years of just having costumed canines roaming the sidelines.

The dog will be named Swagger and lead the team onto the field before games. It's the latest attempt by the Browns to play off the Dawg Pound.

Canton McKinley High School has used live bulldogs for years. The same with the University of Georgia.

The NFL employs few live animal mascots. The Seattle Seahawks boast Taima the hawk, the Denver Broncos use a white Arabian horse named Thunder II and the Baltimore Ravens have two ravens, Rise and Conquer.

Early favorites to win NBA Central Division, Eastern Conference emerging with busy weekend of free agent signings

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Knicks team president Phil Jackson sees a much tougher road to the conference title this year with powers shifting across the East, including LeBron James.

LAS VEGAS -- Oddsmakers have made quite a statement since LeBron James left Biscayne Boulevard for Carnegie Avenue.

With James returning to Cleveland, the Cavaliers are a 7-5 favorite to win the Eastern Conference title, and a 4-1 favorite to win the NBA championship. To put that in perspective, the Miami Heat are a 30-1 long shot to get to the NBA finals for a fifth straight year.

Charles Barkley told viewers on NBA TV: "We have to pull for the Cavaliers now. We have to pull for that team." But being a sentimental choice just means James will continue to have a rather large target on his back.

And even though the road to the Eastern Conference championship may not go through South Beach any longer, there's no guarantee it rolls through Cleveland either.

Not yet.

Forget the East for a moment, as the Central Division alone takes on an entirely new complexion, with James returning to the Cavs and Pau Gasol headed to Chicago to create a formidable frontcourt for the Bulls alongside Joakim Noah. Both teams have a legitimate shot at challenging the Indiana Pacers. But if the two-time defending division champ Pacers convince Lance Stephenson to return, the chore will be that much more difficult.

Obviously, with James back the Cavaliers are immediate contenders in the conference. But unless they find a way to bring in Kevin Love from Minnesota, they'll have plenty of tweaking to do with a mix of talent, including Kyrie Irving, last year's MVP of the All-Star Game, Andrew Wiggins, this year's No. 1 draft pick, and a bevy of youth that will need to mature quickly.

"I've seen a good bit of film to be honest, but the team is changing," said Cavaliers coach David Blatt, whose team defeated the Spurs, 82-70, Sunday in NBA Summer League action. "Certain things apply (from last year), but I'm sort of at the point I'm moving ahead of that because I'm beginning to see the shape of the team and the type of roster that we're gonna have. I believe - I can't say for sure - but I believe we're still a few moves away from what will ultimately be our team, and that's kind of exciting."

Sunday the free-agency dominoes continued to fall, as Carmelo Anthony announced on his website he would return to the New York Knicks, in a shorter yet similarly dramatic way as James' essay via Sports Illustrated on Friday.

Thus, the playing field has conceivably been leveled in the Eastern Conference.

"(It'll be) much more competitive this year," said Knicks team president Phil Jackson following Sunday's team practice. "The East last year, I thought - until the very end when the Knicks made a run, Toronto got going, Washington got going - all the teams were languishing under or around .500. But I think this year, more talent spread around the East will probably be more competitive."

The Toronto Raptors have Kyle Lowry, the Washington Wizards announced a deal that will bring in Paul Pierce and then there's the case of Miami, which still can be a force with Dwyane Wade - who won a title before James arrived - and Chris Bosh returning and the addition of Luol Deng from Cleveland.

''LeBron's still in the East," Knicks coach Derek Fisher said. "It still makes my job difficult. Anytime guys at that level - LeBron, Carmelo - those types of guys, they shift the league."

-- By W.G. Ramirez, a freelance sports reporter in Las Vegas and the Southern Nevada correspondent for Associated Press. (Follow him at @AP_WG)

What impact will the return of Lebron James have on Johnny Manziel?: Hey Mary Kay

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What impact will the return of Lebron James have on Johnny Manziel? Did the Browns fail to do their due diligence on Manziel? Will Mitchell Schwartz fare better this season with John Greco next to him? These and other questions answered in Hey Mary Kay!

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Hey Mary Kay!

Hey Mary Kay: What impact will the return of Lebron James have on Johnny Manziel?

-- Jess Androsek, Bay Village, Ohio

Hey Jess: I think the return of King James could have a tremendous positive impact on Manziel. For starters, Manziel is no longer the biggest sports star in town, so the pressure is off of him a bit. In addition, James and Manziel are friends, and Manziel is represented by James' marketing firm, LRMR. James will serve as a mentor to Manziel and help him deal with the pressures of superstardom. If there's anyone who can understand Manziel's sometimes inexplicable fame, it's James. What's more, James and his LRMR partner Maverick Carter will line Manziel up with plenty of endorsement deals. I think the King will be good for the Prince.

Hey, Mary Kay: Is it just me or did the Browns fail to do their due diligence with Johnny Manziel?  All these money photos seem to show his true character and it's not pretty. Where's his agent during this? These photos definitely don't help him with endorsement companies. This young man just doesn't get it and seems destined for trouble.

- Bob Johnson, East Hartford, Conn.

Hey Bob: The Browns did do their due diligence and reached the conclusion that Manziel was worth the off-field trouble.  However, I do think that Manziel put his nose to the grindstone after his college season and focused on preparing for the draft. He wasn't seen out as much and he spent plenty of time in San Diego working out with quarterback guru George Whitfield, the Massillon native. It seems like he's cut loose since being drafted, and my guess is that he'll get focused again once camp starts on July 26th. His agent, Erik Burkhardt, who helped him keep a low profile before the draft, hasn't said much since then.

Hey, Mary Kay:  Is Josh Gordon acting like a Brown? I don't hear the owner telling Gordon to cool it...What a joke..

- Joe Smith, Louisville, Ohio

Hey Joe: I know that the Browns have reached out to certain professionals to get Gordon the help they feel he needs in the aftermath of his recent DWI. Question is, how long will they stick with him? I think they'll wait to see how long his suspension is, and give Gordon a chance to get on the right track. If he tests positive again, I think they'd be inclined to move on.

Hey, Mary Kay: I was surprised to see that Bleacher Report ranked the Browns defensive line 27th.  From all the recent articles about the Browns  I thought the DL was supposed to be one of their strengths.  What is your spin on this?
Thanks.

- Ken Knapp, Hollywood, Fla.

Hey Ken: I agree with you. I think that's way too low, especially when you consider that Jabaal Sheard will be playing up on the line more in Mike Pettine's multi-front scheme. If Desmond Bryant is the player he was before his heart ablation to correct an irregular beat, he'll be a force once again. I think Phil Taylor and Ahtyba Rubin will fare well in this attack-minded scheme.

Hey, Mary Kay:  Just for fun, I want you to pretend you are the current Browns GM! If your Browns find out that Josh Gordon is indeed suspended for the entire season, what are you going to do? Do you make a trade for a legit experienced receiver (Andre Johnson?) or go into the season with the guys we have on the roster? Or would you have done what most of us would have done and draft a receiver, knowing Gordon would more than likely be suspended. Maybe you do not need a superstar to win games, but do you think this roster of receivers is good enough or possibly healthy enough to be competitive?

- Paul Vocca, Cottonwood, Ariz.

Hey Paul: I don't believe the Browns will trade for Johnson, who's 33 and due to make $10 million this season, $10.5 million in 2015 and $11 million in 2016. I think they'll continue to look for quality receivers on the street, the waiver wire, in trades and on practice squads. In the meantime, they'll hope that Nate Burleson is 100% recovered from surgery in May to repair the plate in his arm and that Miles Austin puts the nagging injuries that sidelined him during minicamp behind him. They'll also have to hope that Andrew Hawkins continues to look as good as he did in offseason workouts and that Anthony Armstrong can make an impact. They're also hoping that Charles Johnson, plucked off the Packers' practice squad last season, is a bonus when he recovers fully from his torn ACL.

Hey Mary Kay: I'm most pleased that it looks like the Browns want to start guard Joel Bitonio between All-Pros Joe Thomas and Alex Mack. Remembering right tackle Mitchell Schwartz's excellent first season when he was paired with right guard John Greco, do you agree his reduced second season performance was due more to right guard Shawn Lauvao's weak performance than a sophomore slump? I'm hoping the Browns pair them again as RT/RG starters this year.

- Alan Fojt, Manassas, Va.

Hey Alan: The new Browns coaching staff is excited about Mitchell Schwartz and his potential in Kyle Shanahan's zone-blocking scheme, which emphasizes quickness off the ball, smarts and agility. John Greco is a leading candidate to start at right guard next to Schwartz, which should make for a solid combo. Bitonio, the Browns' second-round pick, is the frontrunner to start at left guard providing he's fully recovered from the sprained ankle suffered during organized team activities.
 

Where is Trent Dilfer? Catching up with the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterbacks since 1999

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Catching up with former Browns QB Trent Dilfer. Dilfer is eighth on our list, as over the next few weeks we look back at all the Browns' starting quarterbacks since 1999.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Former Browns quarterback Trent Dilfer spent a lot of his NFL career developing younger quarterbacks coming into the league after him. 

After his stint with Tampa Bay, where he went as a first round draft pick, Dilfer went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens where he became a Super Bowl winner. But after his time there, Dilfer's career was on-again-off-again a backup quarterback. 

Teams liked the veteran experience Dilfer could bring, and like always, they were looking for their franchise quarterback, and believed Dilfer could help develop one.

Dilfer is eighth on our list, as over the next few weeks we look back at all the Browns' starting quarterbacks since 1999. Here is a look at his career highlights and lowlights, his time in Cleveland, and what he's been doing since his days in a Browns uniform.

Trent Dilfer, 2005

4-7 as a Browns starter

Before the Browns

Trent Dilfer was drafted fourth overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1994 NFL Draft. After six seasons with Tampa Bay, Dilfer became a free agent and signed with the Ravens, where he went on to win Super Bowl XXXV.

After his season with the Ravens, Dilfer played with the Seattle Seahawks for four years. With the Seahawks, Dilfer was signed as a backup to help groom quarterback Matt Hasselbeck.

Hasselbeck struggled in 2001, so Seattle put Dilfer in as the quarterback for the final two games of the season. Dilfer won both games, as they were hoping for a wildcard playoff spot, but fell short when the Raven defeated the Minnesota Vikings.

How he came to the Browns

After signing on to a longer contract with Seattle following the 2001 season, Dilfer tore his Achilles tendon in 2002, and therefore became the backup to Hasselbeck. Dilfer was then traded to the Browns.

"I wanted one more chance of starting and Seattle agreed by giving me that chance by trading me to Cleveland," Dilfer said. "I was pumped. Cleveland kind of rejuvenated me from a career standpoint."

The Browns' General Manager, Phil Savage, brought Dilfer in to "reshape the culture of the team," Dilfer said. The two knew each other from when Savage was with the Ravens while Dilfer was there.

Browns highlights

According to Dilfer, his biggest highlight as a Brown was defeating the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field in Week Two. Before that day, Dilfer had never won at Lambeau before. He ended the day going 21-for-32 for 336 yards and three touchdowns.

"We played decent early on," Dilfer said of the 2005 Browns. "We were competitive, we put points on the board, and we were moving the ball."

Browns lowlights

Though Dilfer had the highest completion percentage of his career at 59.8 percent with the Browns, he didn't enjoy playing for then-offensive coordinator Maurice Carthon.

"Honestly, the only thing that was a bummer was I had the worst offensive coordinator I've ever had in my career," Dilfer said. "If you ask anybody on that team that year, they'd say the same thing. We didn't have unrealistic expectations.

It was a terrible hire by (then-Browns head coach Romeo Crennel). It put all of us in a terrible situation. That's the only reason. I made it very clear that I was not going to play one more snap as long as he was there."

How he left the Browns

In May of 2006, the Browns granted Dilfer's wish and traded him to the San Francisco 49ers, where he spent his final NFL season.

"It wasn't a matter of want to, it was I couldn't," Dilfer said of playing longer in Cleveland. "I couldn't justify looking my teammates in the eyes and knowing we had no chance with him as an offensive coordinator."

What he's doing now

Dilfer resides in California with his wife, Cassandra, and three daughters.

Currently, Dilfer is an ESPN analyst during the NFL season. He commutes from California to Bristol, Conn., where he does the postgame on primetime SportsCenter Sunday nights with Chris Berman and Tom Jackson, and recaps the day.

Then, the following day, he heads to Monday Night Football and works Monday Night Countdown and postgame on site. He gets home to California Monday night or Tuesday morning, he said.

During the spring and summer, Dilfer runs the ESPN Elite 11 Quarterback Camp. The camp is for developing rising high school senior quarterbacks. They also do a television show around the camp.

Touchdowns and the Cleveland Browns fans

One of Dilfer's most memorable times in Cleveland was throwing to wide receiver Antonio Bryant for the game-winning touchdown against the Bears in Week Five. The Browns scored two touchdowns in the final six minutes of regulation to defeat Chicago.

Another favorite memory of Dilfer's was during the Packers' game, when he threw a touchdown to tight end Steve Heiden against the blitz.

And finally, one of Dilfer's biggest memories of his time in Cleveland was the fans.

"When I went to training camp in Berea and saw the excitement and enthusiasm of the fan base (that was cool)," Dilfer said. "I'm kind of a football junkie and I never understood the Browns fan base, just because it was the Midwest. To see that being from California was pretty awesome."

Tearing his patella tendon

Dilfer said he didn't have very many bad memories as his time as a Brown. But getting hurt was one of them.  

"Getting hurt and tearing my patella tendon (was a lowlight)," Dilfer said. "It was one more setback from injuries. That was a bummer."

What he wants to do in the future

Dilfer enjoys what he does now, being an analyst for ESPN and managing the Elite 11 Quarterback Camp. He says he thinks he'll do both "for a long time."

"I think I've found a nice thing where in the falls I enjoy the broadcasting and then in the spring we're trying to train the young quarterbacks," he said.

Contact reporter Lexi Pluym by email (apluym@cleveland.com) or Twitter (@LexiPluym). Or log in and leave a message in the comments section below.

Solon LB John Sensibaugh has a head for business and instincts for the game: 31 in 31 football series (slideshow, video)

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Sensibaugh has led Solon in tackles each season since his sophomore year and is a standout business student in the classroom.

SOLON, Ohio -- Whether he's dissecting a finance report, or studying a lineman's stance, John Sensibaugh believes performance is dictated by preparation.

"You put in the hard work and at some point there's a part of your background that just clicks," says the three-year starting linebacker in the middle of Solon's defense. 

A senior, who works harder than anybody on the field according to coach Jim McQuaide, Sensibaugh garnered awards in the classroom and honors on the field last year when he led the Comets in tackles for the second consecutive season. 

In the spring, he was named the top junior student by the Solon business department. But it is Sensibaugh's passion for breaking down game film - sometimes within hours of walking off the field - that separates him from his peers.

"We talk to our guys about never staying the same, you either get worse or you get better," McQuaide said. "He's the epitome of that. When he leaves and goes on to be successful it will be because of his effort."

Sensibaugh first caught McQuaide's eye when he participated in the Solon Saturns youth football program as early as fourth grade.

"He finishes a drill harder than anybody else," McQuaide said. 

Every day in July, check out a profile featuring one of the many standout football players in Northeast Ohio as part of the 31 in 31 series.

Perhaps that comes from his football lineage. Sensibaugh's father, Doug was a linebacker at Ohio Northern, and his grandfather, Mike, played safety at Ohio State in the late 1960s. Mike Sensibaugh still ranks as the Buckeyes' all-time leader in interceptions for a single season and career.

Doug Sensibaugh marvels at his son's ability to soak up the intricacies of the game. He says the young linebacker is extremely teachable and makes adjustments on the fly.

"He picks up the little tendencies," Doug Sensibaugh said. "From looking at how a lineman's feet are - whether they're on their heels or on their toes - to tell if it's a run or a pass. He gets those tendencies and it's fun to see."

Sensibaugh has drawn interest from a few Mid-American Conference and Big Ten schools. He sees himself fitting in at a MAC school with strong academics where he can major in business with an eye on management.

"I just have to work hard in the weight room and get bigger and play at that high level," he said.

Also a mainstay on the Solon lacrosse team, Sensibaugh says he is looking forward to his senior year and the opportunity to bring his team together and have fun.

"It's not worth playing unless you absolutely love the game of football, and that's me," he said. "I love absolutely everything about the game."

More about Sensibaugh

Height: 6-foot-0

Weight: 201 pounds

Position: Linebacker

Grade: Senior

2013 stats: Made 107 tackles and had one interception which he returned for a touchdown.

Awards/honors: Second team All-Northeast Lakes District defense; first team All-Northeast Ohio Conference Valley Division; NOC Scholar-Athlete Award.

With deep Cleveland roots, Paralympians Tatyana McFadden and Dartanyon Crockett inspire at Gateway to Gold event (slideshow, videos)

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Humility helps Tatyana McFadden and Dartanyon Crockett reach aspiring Paralympians in Gateway to Gold talent search event at Case Western Reserve. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Kelli Anne Stallkamp listened carefully and quietly as Paralympic superstar Tatyana McFadden instructed her on proper wheelchair racing technique.

Kelli Anne, a 14-year-old sled hockey player from Lima, Ohio, didn't really grasp McFadden's status as the face of U.S. Paralympics.

But Kelli Anne's mother sure did.

"Oh, my God, she has no idea how lucky she is,'' said Jeanna Stallkamp, wide-eyed as the scene unfolded in Case Western Reserve's Veale Center on Sunday.

It was just one of many such moments for 10-time Paralympic track and skiing medalist McFadden, as well as judo silver medalist Dartanyon Crockett, who were the main draws at the Gateway to Gold talent search conducted by the U.S. Paralympic Committee.

The event drew 36 youth and adult athletes with a wide variety of physical impairments to be tested in four sports – track and field, sitting volleyball, cycling and rowing. Most were teens and pre-teens, some of whom had just returned from national competitions, and others who were there to try something new.

Both with deep Cleveland roots, McFadden and Crockett were appropriate choices to set the tone throughout the day.

"All the people that are here today, I was in their same position, trying to figure out where I can get involved locally,'' said McFadden, whose mother, Debbie, is from Fairview Park. "It all starts through the adaptive sports programs. The idea is to reach out to everyone, not just to the one who is going to be a Paralympian. It reaches out to one girl who just wants to stay active, and that's why this is so important.''

McFadden and Crockett were easily approachable throughout the five-hour event, and they appeared to take seriously their roles as instructors and mentors.

"They are so humble and so down-to-earth with these kids,'' Jeanna Stallkamp said. "They want to teach.''

McFadden is a regular on the Gateway to Gold tour, which will make 28 stops across the country this year. Crockett was a newcomer, and was humbled by the opportunity to help his hometown. He grew up in the Kinsman neighborhood on the East Side, and graduated form Lincoln West, where he was a wrestler.

"It's great to be able to give back. I was in the same situation as many of these kids, not knowing what I wanted to do, and being a little insecure,'' said Crockett, who is visually impaired. "Being an unknown, off-the-radar kid from Cleveland, to having people tell me how inspirational I am, it's still hard for me to believe, because it's just me living my life. I've never thought of me being inspirational.''

That changed after Crockett moved to Colorado Springs, Colo., to live at the U.S. Olympic Training Center four years ago. Crockett had an unstable home life after his mother passed away when he was 8, and his father battled substance and alcohol addiction. Crockett is one of 12 children and often couch-jumped, staying at the homes of friends and relatives.

"It took a little bit of time, but I realized how powerful my story is, and how much people look up to me. That give me more drive to be better the next day than I was the day before,'' he said.

"When I did one of my first speaking engagements around 2011, one of the kids came up to me and said, 'I think you're so great. You're my hero.' The word 'hero' stuck. All my life, I was just a blind inner-city kid from Cleveland, just kind of struggling. This kid who I don't even know told me I'm a hero? I have my own idea of hero, and it wasn't me.

"It just stuck, how influential something I thought was so small can be to someone else. That was my 'ah-ha' moment. It didn't change me in how I live my life because I try to be myself, so I don't have to be different around someone else. It gave me more of an outlook on what I want to do with my life.''

McFadden was born with spina bifida in Russia and adopted by her American parents at age 6, a story that resonated with Avon Lake 12-year-old Nelya Stary Schasfoort, who was adopted out of Ukraine.

"She's someone I can look up to in the years I'll be doing this,'' Schasfoort said.

Schasfoort was perhaps the athlete who most caught talent searchers' attention when she sprinted down the track and later crushed a stationary bicycle test.

"A lot of people noticed,'' she said, almost embarrassed. "I just started track two months ago. I want to keep doing this – for a very long time.''

Crockett arm wrestles.jpgView full sizeCleveland native Dartanyon Crockett, a 2012 Paralympic silver medalist, arm wrestles Mia Lewis of Livonia, Mich., while Kelli Anne Stallkamp (purple shirt) watches during the Gateway to Gold talent search at Case Western Reserve on Sunday.  

Born with arthrogryposis, Schasfoort has low muscle tone in her upper body and until recently had been primarily a swimmer nicknamed "The Bullet" for her extraordinary backstroke and butterfly ability despite not using her arms. Her long, powerful legs had one coach predicting Sunday she'll be competing for a spot on the junior national Paralympic track or cycling team team by age 14.

In addition to frequently offering advice and pointers, McFadden an Crockett also had fun. Crockett playfully arm wrestled Elliott Prior of Amherst and Mia Lewis of Livonia, Mich., while McFadden glided alongside wheelchair track athletes.

The day ended with McFadden and Crockett racing each other on the indoor track. Crockett got smoked by McFadden, who last month added two world records to her long list of wheelchair track accomplishments that includes three Paralympic gold medals, 14 world championships and two Boston Marathon victories.

It was Crockett's first time in a racing chair, and he playfully asked for a rematch.

But as he did most of the day at every sport test, energetic and outgoing 12-year-old double-amputee Theo Hardesty of Lima stole the show on his new running blades. He jumped in at the start and ran past McFadden and Crockett, who coasted behind him. Hardesty grinned the entire 100 meters.

Hardesty stood out – not because he was different, but because he was having the most fun.

"They are at a place where they can feel accepted,'' Crockett said. "They don't have a title or condition added onto their name. They're just people here, and that's how it should be everywhere.''


Trevor Bauer superb again as Cleveland Indians defeat Chicago White Sox: DMan's Report, Game 94, Sunday

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The Indians enter the All-Star break having won eight of 12.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians played the White Sox in the finale of a three-game series Sunday. Here is a capsule look from The Plain Dealer reporter Dennis Manoloff:

Game: 94.

Opponent: White Sox.

Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland.

Time of day: Afternoon.

Time elapsed: 3 hours.

Attendance: 18,070.

Result: Indians 3, White Sox 2.

Records: Indians 47-47, White Sox 45-51.

Scoreboard watch: The Indians pulled within 7.5 games of first-place Detroit (53-38) in the AL Central. The Tigers lost to the Royals, 5-2, in Kansas City. Mo.

Progress: The Indians went 6-4 on their final homestand before the All-Star break (2-1 vs. Kansas City, 2-2 vs. Yankees, 2-1 vs. White Sox). They have won eight of 12 overall.

Late uprising: The Indians scored twice in the eighth inning to overcome a 2-1 deficit. They notched their 25th comeback victory.

Hit splits: The White Sox held an 11-9 advantage in hits. The Tribe improved to 8-35 when being out-hit.

Rare air: The Tribe is 9-34 with three or fewer runs.

Overcoming themselves: The Indians struggled at home against White Sox lefty John Danks, who is not to be confused with Steve Carlton. They were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position and stranded 10. The top four in their lineup combined to go 2-for-16 with three strikeouts.

Yet they found a way to win.

Starring roles: Right-hander Trevor Bauer and catcher Yan Gomes carried the Tribe. Bauer pitched 6 2/3 shutout innings. Gomes called a good game and delivered an RBI single in the second and go-ahead two-run homer in the eighth.

Supporting cast: Tribe left fielder Mike Aviles, designated hitter Nick Swisher and closer Cody Allen made significant contributions. Aviles went 2-for-4 and authored a four-star defensive play; Swisher was 2-for-4 and scored on Gomes' homer; and Allen struck out two in a perfect ninth that secured his 11th consecutive save.

Swisher entered Sunday at 17-for-110 (.155) in day games.

Bauer power: Bauer walked three and struck out a career-high 10 -- all swinging. He exited with a 1-0 lead. He lost his opportunity for a victory when the White Sox scored two in the eighth against Bryan Shaw.

Shaw was credited with the victory in the box score, but don't be fooled: Bauer won the game.

Back-to-back gems: In his previous start, July 8 against the Yankees, Bauer allowed three runs (two earned) on four hits in seven innings of a 5-3 victory. He walked two and struck out six.

Bauer began the season with the Class AAA Columbus Clippers. He enters the break as the Tribe's second-most dependable starter, behind Corey Kluber. Bauer is 3-4 with a 3.84 ERA in 12 starts for Cleveland.

Nasty stuff: Against the White Sox, Bauer relied primarily on a fastball-curveball combination. He sprinkled in changeups, cutters and sliders. The White Sox did not hit many balls hard.

Bauer's command of the mid-90s fastball and 12-to-6 curve got better as the game unfolded. He consistently threw the fastball on the inner half, which set up the sharp breaking stuff down and/or away.

Refusing to buckle: Bauer's excellent start hinged on his performance in two stretches.

1. In the first two innings, the White Sox had four hits and one walk. Bauer threw 37 pitches but -- as has been his m.o. this season -- rode competitive juices to escapes.

Aviles helped immensely with his defense. After Conor Gillaspie led off the second with a single, Gordon Beckham flied to left near the line. Aviles caught the ball and unloaded, Yoenis Cespedes-style, to first baseman Carlos Santana to double off the jogging Gillaspie by a half-step. Plain and simple: Aviles had caught Gillaspie napping.

The play turned out to be enormous because Tyler Flowers followed with a single. Leury Garcia's single pushed Flower to third. With Alejandro De Aza batting, Garcia stole second.

De Aza flied to left to end the threat. 

2. The White Sox put runners on first and second with none out in the sixth but failed to score.

Dayan Viciedo singled and Gillaspie walked. When Bauer absolutely needed a strikeout, he got it, Beckham swinging through an 0-2 curve. Bauer set up the hook with a 96-mph fastball that Beckham missed.

Flowers fell behind, 0-2, and tapped a curve in front of the plate. Gomes fired to third for the force.

Garcia, after taking a ball, fouled a 96-mph fastball, swung and missed at a slider and flailed at a curve. 

TB10K: Here is a list of Bauer's strikeout victims (final pitch in parentheses):

First inning: De Aza (77-mph curve).

Third inning: Jose Abreu (96 fastball).

Fourth inning: Gillaspie (79 curve); Beckham (83 slider); Garcia (79 curve).

Fifth inning: De Aza (80 curve); Carlos Sanchez, 80 (curve).

Sixth inning: Beckham (81 curve); Garcia (81 curve).

Seventh inning: Sanchez (81 curve).

Finally: The Indians don't play again until Friday in Detroit. They have a four-game series against the Tigers.

The Indians have faced 10 teams that are at or above .500 by the break. Their combined record against them: 22-30.

Pilot Flying J CEO Jimmy Haslam says he's looking forward to putting "this whole unfortunate episode" behind him

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A Pilot attorney says Pilot Flying J has cooperated fully with government investigators and will continue to do so.

CLEVELAND, Ohio-- Pilot Flying J Chief Executive Jimmy Haslam said today his truck stop chain has been committed to making right the losses inflicted on customers in the fuel rebate investigation that has engulfed his Knoxville, Tenn.-based company.

"We, as a company, look forward to putting this whole unfortunate episode behind us, continuing our efforts to rectify the damage done, regaining our customers' trust and getting on with our business," Haslam said in a statement released this afternoon.

The Justice Department today announced a criminal enforcement agreement with Pilot Flying J that says the company will not be prosecuted if it pays $92 million over the next two years and fully cooperates with the government's investigation of fraud in Pilot's diesel fuel rebate programs. (See agreement in document viewer below.)

Individuals may still be prosecuted, both the government and Pilot said in separate statements released Monday. A spokeswoman at the Department of Justice office in Knoxville, Tenn., said there would be no further comment from prosecutors because a criminal investigation is on-going.

Haslam, owner of the Cleveland Browns, has said since the FBI raid on his family-owned business in April 2013 that he had no prior knowledge that Pilot's sales team was cheating trucking customers of fuel rebates and discounts they were owed.

In a news release, U.S. Attorney Bill Killian said that "The terms of this agreement, including the significant monetary penalty and the very serious consequences if Pilot fails to comply, demonstrate quite clearly that no corporation, no matter how big, influential, or wealthy, is above the law.

"In addition, the company's agreement to fully cooperate with the United States, including its obligation to identify its employees' criminal conduct, will assist the ongoing federal investigation."

Pilot, in the agreement, acknowledged and accepted full responsibility for any criminal conduct committed by its employees, including people involved with the operation and oversight of Pilot's diesel fuel sales, a division of the company with about 90 employees.

Ten employees, including top sales officials, have pleaded guilty and are cooperating with investigators in the on-going criminal probe.

Pilot fired the executive who figured prominently in secretly recorded meetings at the truck stop chain where federal agents say fuel rebate fraud was discussed, Vice President of Sales John "Stick" Freeman, in May. President Mark Hazelwood, the company's No. 2 executive, is also gone.

The agreement, signed on Friday by Pilot attorneys, says the company will use its best efforts to make any present or former directors, officers or employees available for interviews or testimony, as requested by prosecutors. That includes identifying witnesses who may have material information.

Aubrey Harwell, an attorney for Pilot, said in the company's statement: "The past 15 months, since the federal government served a search warrant on the company's headquarters, have been very trying for all involved.

"The company has cooperated fully with the government and will continue to do so. As to its customers, the company has gone to extraordinary lengths to understand and identify any wrongdoing and make it right."

Virginia Hearey, a former federal prosecutor who is head of the white-collar crime unit at Calfee Halter in Cleveland, said a criminal enforcement agreement is a type of deferred prosecution in which the two sides agree to specific facts, and to the understanding that the government would win the case if it decided to prosecute.

Pilot's $92 million penalty is "a very high payment," she said. Added to that is the unstated and likely significant cost of the self-monitoring for compliance with audit standards that Pilot has agreed to do, essentially becoming a partner with the government in making sure the company avoids future fraud.

Hearey said she couldn't say one way or another, without seeing the actual agreement between Pilot and the government, how, if at all, it affects further prosecution of individuals.

"That's the $92 million question," she said.

Andrew Pollis, at the law school at Case Western Reserve University, said a criminal enforcement agreement doesn't affect the ability to prosecute but may have some impact on what happens in those prosecutions. Without adversarial friction between the company and the government, the company could cooperate more fully than when it had the threat of felony charges hanging over its head.

Pilot, the largest operator of travel centers in the United States, has 23,000 employees and 650 retail operations nationwide.

Cleveland Browns provide registration information for Family Day tickets

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The Family Day scrimmage will be held in Akron this year as the stadium undergoes renovations.

BEREA, Ohio -- The Browns released information Monday for their upcoming intrasquad scrimmage in Akron. Here are select details from the club's news release:

The Browns will host their annual Family Day intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 2 at University of Akron's InfoCision Stadium. Gates will open at 10:30 a.m with the scrimmage set to start an hour later.

To attend the free event, Browns fans can register for general-admission tickets by visiting www.ClevelandBrowns.com, beginning at 10 a.m. Thursday. Individuals have the opportunity to request up to six seats, as space permits. Fans are encouraged to contact the Browns ticket office directly (440-891-5050) with questions.

From 9:30-11:30 a.m., the team will set up fan-engagement elements on Vine Street, including a Browns alumni autograph area (10-11 a.m.), a zip line, inflatables, face-painting stations and a food court.

The location will also hold a First and Ten booth, the team's signature community program, established to inspire fans to volunteer in and help their communities; and a Browns PLAY 60 area.

After the final whistle, Browns players will sign autographs. Select Browns fans will also be given jerseys off the backs of their favorite athletes.

It will mark the first time Family Day has extended outside of Cleveland. Since 1946, Cleveland has played 19 preseason games in Akron, with the most recent exhibition contest drawing 30,751 fans on Sept. 8, 1973.

Browns PNC Bank Debit Card holders can gain access to Family Day at 10 a.m. by showing their cards and tickets at Gate 1, located at the southwest corner of the stadium. Each Cleveland Browns PNC Bank Debit Card will allow a maximum of five ticketed guests.

Ed FitzGerald: LeBron's return worth millions to Cleveland, Cuyahoga County

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LeBron James's return to Cleveland could help bring almost $50 million a year in new economic activity to the city and region, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald said Monday.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- LeBron James's return to Cleveland could help bring almost $50 million a year in new economic activity to the city and region, Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald said Monday.

FitzGerald said his fiscal office worked with Positively Cleveland, the local convention and tourism bureau, to reach that figure.

The primary basis of his argument is the expected spike in attendance at Quicken Loan Arena associated with James's return to the Cavs. 

"I think there is a measurable economic value," FitzGerald said at an afternoon news conference. "When people say this is just about an athlete making money, there's more to it than that. Other people will make a living."

FitzGerald said his estimates are conservative. The FitzGerald administration as its baseline used an economic impact study -- the accuracy of which received mixed reviews from economists interviewed by the Northeast Ohio Media Group -- that the Cavs commissioned and released earlier this year.

For what it's worth, The Plain Dealer, working with economists, in 2010 roughly estimated James played a key role in $200 million in annual downtown spending -- $48 million during the regular season, and $150 million in regional spending for a deep playoff run.

FitzGerald's numbers are just that -- estimates. But here the higlights of FitzGerald's talk on Monday:

1. Cuyahoga County will save $3.5 million a year because of increased ticket taxes

This is the firmest of the figures FitzGerald went over.

Cuyahoga County is still on the hook for $64.3 million (as of the beginning of this year) of money borrowed in the 1990s to help build Progressive Field and the Q.

Taxes on tickets at Quicken Loans Arena helps offset the county's annual debt payments. That means when attendance is down, the county has to cover more of the payment itself.

Cavs attendance spiked from around 11,000 a game to around 19,000 during the 2003-2004 season, James's rookie year. Average attendance fell off to around 16,000 a game after James left in 2010.

FitzGerald said he expects that between increased attendance and playoff games, the county will save $3.5 million a year on its Gateway payments while the Cavs sell out games.

2. More fans downtown means more jobs, increased sales tax collections

FitzGerald said with the increased attendance, his fiscal office expects annual spending by Cavs fans will increase from $136 million to $170 million. That will support 550 new jobs, with employees (not including players) that make a total of $38 million a year.

In all, the Cavs are currently responsible for $215 million in annual economic output, according to the Cavs study cited by FitzGerald on Monday. (A press release from FitzGerald's office initially mischaracterized this number.) The number would increase to $268 million, assuming increased attendance, according to FitzGerald.

Both numbers assume the team's economic impact increases as money spent by fans is re-circulated into the local economy.

Nate Kelly, FitzGerald's deputy chief of staff for economic development, told reporters on Monday that the post-James Cavs could have a total economic impact worth $500 million.

It's worth noting this is a much more aggressive interpretation of the data – about twice so – than the study the Cavs financed.

3. 'The most underestimated, maligned big city in America'

FitzGerald pivoted his speech from talking about James's return, to comparing the condition of downtown Cleveland in 2010, when James left, to 2014, when he will return.

Incidentally, that time frame roughly coincides with FitzGerald's four-year term in office. He highlighted county-financed downtown improvements, including the completion of renovations to the convention center/construction of the medical mart, plans to build a 30-story convention center hotel and renovations to Playhouse Square.

He said his administration has intentionally focused its efforts on downtown development, and would continue to do so. He said the investments helped lure the 2016 Republican National Convention, which will give the city an opportunity to improve its national image.

"I think Cleveland is the most underestimated, maligned big city in America, and its reputation doesn't fit with its reality, even before these big improvements," FitzGerald said.

Live updates: 2014 NBA Summer League Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Philadelphia 76ers

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Get scoring updates and analysis as the Cavs take on the 76ers. You can also chat with other fans in the comments section below.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The Cleveland Cavaliers remained undefeated in summer league play on Monday night, beating the Philadelphia 76ers 86-77. The Cavs finished the preliminary rounds 3-0. They will begin the playoffs either Wednesday or Thursday, depending on the seed they receive. 

Scoring Summary

End of 1st Quarter: Cavs 15, 76ers 11. Matthew Dellavedova, Anthony Bennett and Jack Cooley lead the team in scoring with four points. Andrew Wiggins has one point - it came on a free throw. 

End of 2nd Quarter: Cavs 48, 76ers 29. Bennett leads the team in scoring with 11 points. Cooley has nine. Wiggins has three. K.J. McDaniels has seven for Philly. 

End of 3rd Quarter: Cavs 64, 76ers 51. Bennett leads the way with 13 points. Dellavedova has 10. Wiggins with eight points, three rebounds, two steals, two blocked shots and two turnovers. 

End of game: Cavs 86, 76ers 77. Dellavedova finishes with a team-high 19 points. Shane Edwards, who played with the Canton Charge last season, recorded a double-double, with 14 points and 11 rebounds. 

MLB All-Star Game 2014 Home Run Derby: Live chat with Paul Hoynes

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Chat with Northeast Ohio Media Group Indians writer Paul Hoynes live from Target Field in Minneapolis as the game's sluggers square off.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - Seattle's Felix Hernandez will start Tuesday night's All-Star game for the American League and Adam Wainwright of the St. Louis Cardinals will open for the National League. But before all that, there's the fun and festivities of tonight, which will see the game's top sluggers square off in the 2014 Home Run Derby at 8 on ESPN.

The participants for the American League will be: Toronto's Jose Bautista; Oakland's Josh Donaldson; Minnesota's Brian Dozier; Baltimore's Adam Jones; and Oakland's Yoenis Cespedes, the defending champion.

For the National League, the hitters will be: Colorado's Troy Tulowitzki; Cincinnati's Todd Frazier; Colorado's Justin Morneau; the Dodgers' Yasiel Puig; and the Marlins' Giancarlo Stanton.

During tonight's action at Target Field, join Northeast Ohio Media Group Indians reporter Paul Hoynes from the press box for a live chat in the comments below:

Benedictine linebacker Jerome Baker among preseason candidates for high school Butkus Award

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Jerome Baker listed among top high school linebackers in the country.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — It’s been a busy couple of days for Benedictine linebacker Jerome Baker.

After announcing his verbal commitment to Florida on Friday, Baker was named to the preseason watch list for the 30th annual Butkus Award on Monday.

The Butkus Award honors the nation’s best linebackers at the high school, college and professional levels. Fifty-one players were named to the high school watch list. Semifinalists will be announced on Oct. 27, and the winner will be notified on or before Dec. 9.

Last year’s high school Butkus Award winner was Raekwon McMillan from Liberty County, Georgia. McMillan is now enrolled at Ohio State.

Baker, considered by some national recruiting services as the top player in Ohio, had 120 tackles last season. He also plays running back, and rushed for 1,400 yards during his junior year.

He’s one of six players from Ohio on the high school watch list, joining Dublin Scioto’s Nick Conner, Toledo Central Catholic’s Chris Green, Cincinnati St. Xavier’s Justin Hilliard, Columbus Marion-Franklin’s Anthony McKee and Massillon Jackson’s Reagan Williams.

Hilliard and Conner are both committed to Ohio State.

Florida has the most players on the high school watch list with seven. Ohio and Texas each have six.

Contact high school sports reporter Bill Landis by email (blandis@cleveland.com) or Twitter (@blandis25). Or log in and leave a message in the comments section below.


NFL says Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam not in violation of league policy

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BEREA, Ohio -- Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has agreed to pay a $92 million penalty as part of a federal fraud investigation into his family-owned company Pilot Flying J. But it appears the NFL will not subject him to any supplemental discipline. In reviewing the investigation the league finds no wrongdoing by Haslam that violates its personal-conduct policy.  "There...

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has agreed to pay a $92 million penalty as part of a federal fraud investigation into his family-owned company Pilot Flying J.

But it appears the NFL will not subject him to any supplemental discipline. In reviewing the investigation the league finds no wrongdoing by Haslam that violates its personal-conduct policy. 

"There have been no allegations of any personal conduct that is in violation of NFL policy," wrote NFL spokesman Greg Aiello in an email.

Pro Football Talk first reported the league's response.

All players, coaches, executives, owners and league and team personnel are subject to the policy. For instance, Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay could be disciplined for a drunk-driving arrest in March.

On Monday, the Justice Department announced a criminal enforcement agreement with Pilot Flying J that states the company will not be prosecuted if it pays the massive fine over the next two years and cooperates with the government's investigation of fraud in Pilot's diesel fuel rebate programs.

The federal probe remains ongoing and individuals might still be prosecuted, according to a government statement. Haslam has maintained since the FBI raid in April 2013 that he had no prior knowledge his sales team was bilking trucking customers of fuel rebates and discounts owed.

Ten employees have pleaded guilty, and are cooperating with investigators. 

Akron RubberDucks defeat Trenton Thunder, 5-2, in 10 innings

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The RubberDucks (56-41) trail the Richmond Flying Squirrels by one game for first place in the Western Division.

A two-run homer from catcher Alex Lavisky and an RBI double by third baseman Justin Toole gave the Akron RubberDucks the victory over the Thunder in 10 innings Monday in a Class AA Eastern League game in Trenton, N.J.

wolters_tony.pngView full sizeTony Wolters 

The RubberDucks took a 2-1 lead into the eighth inning, scoring in the first on an RBI single by designated hitter Anthony Gallas and an RBI double by Lavisky in the fifth.

The Thunder were able to tie the game in the eighth on an RBI single by catcher Francisco Arcia.

The RubberDucks took control in the 10th with one out. Gallas walked, and Lavisky followed with a homer to left field of Thunder reliever Manny Barreda. With two outs, outfielder Jordan Smith doubled, and Smith scored on a double by Toole.

Lavisky finished 2-for-5 with a double, homer and three RBI. Toole and shortstop Tony Wolters also were 2-for-5, with Toole also driving in a run.

RubberDucks starter Joseph Colon gave up one run in five innings, throwing 88 pitches, 55 for strikes. Akron used five pitchers, with reliever Shawn Armstrong (4-1, 3.65) getting the win after pitching 1 1/3 scoreless innings with two strikeouts.

The RubberDucks (56-41) trail the Richmond Flying Squirrels by one game for first place in the Western Division.

Notes: The RubberDucks are off until Thursday for the Eastern League All-Star break. Their next game is 7:05 p.m. Thursday against the Erie SeaWolves in Akron. ... The RubberDucks won six of eight on their road trip before the break. ... Akron shortstop Francisco Lindor was 0-for-2 in the Major League Baseball All-Star Futures Game on Sunday in Minneapolis. ... Lindor, Armstrong and Colon will play in the Eastern League All-Star Game on Wednesday. 

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam can't escape judgment on social media

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The news of Browns owner Jimmy Haslam's deal with the Justice Department is getting mixed reaction on social media.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Monday was a big day for Browns owner Jimmy Haslam.

It was announced early in the day that Haslam's company Pilot Flying J had reached a criminal enforcement agreement with the federal Justice Department. Pilot Flying J will not be prosecuted if it pays $92 million over the next two years and fully cooperates with the government's investigation of fraud in Pilot's diesel fuel rebate programs.

In addition, the NFL announced it had no plans to discipline Haslam, saying there are allegations of him violating the league's personal conduct policy.

Federal investigators and Flying Pilot J officials say individuals may still be prosecuted. Still, it was a day of good news for Haslam, who said his company is looking "forward to putting this whole unfortunate episode behind us." 

But while a U.S. attorney said the agreement shows that "no corporation, no matter how big, influential, or wealthy, is above the law," the news is being greeted with mixed reactions on social media:

Scroll below to see more reactions from social media. 

Cleveland Cavaliers stay undefeated and continue to gain valuable experience at Summer League

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David Blatt still doesn't know what it feels like to lose an NBA game.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- David Blatt still doesn't know what it feels like to lose an NBA game.

OK, so it's only summer league, but don't try telling the new head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers that there's nothing for his team to gain or learn during this run.

"It's great experience for our guys," Blatt said after the Cavs' 86-77 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. "We've got a full gym everyday so that's kind of nice and it also gives them energy I think to play a little bit harder."

Matthew Dellavedova, who is now trying to prove himself to a new coaching staff, led the team in scoring with 19 points. Three other players scored in double figures as Shane Edwards and Anthony Bennett each chipped in with 14. Andrew Wiggins added 10 on 4-of-8 from the field.

"We've got a really competitive group of guys and we've been working hard and it just shows that we want to win and play as a team," Dellavedova said. "Hopefully we can keep it going."

There's still plenty of work to do for the Cavs, especially after committing 23 turnovers, including five from last year's top pick Anthony Bennett.

"I didn't think we played as well today as we did yesterday, but maybe that's the back-to-back effect," Blatt explained. "I did like the fact that we were gritty. We stayed in there and we played hard. Just didn't have a stellar performance."

Even though it's his first time coaching in the NBA, Blatt understands how unique and difficult this setting can be. However, he's pretty specific in what he wants to see from his guys moving forward.

"Playing the right way," he said. "There's so many moving parts, but there's always a right way to play. The right decisions, understanding time and circumstance, reading the clock, throwing the extra pass and making an extra effort or extra rotation on defense. Those are the things that should be habits that you have. If not, you have to learn them here.

"It goes one of two ways," he added. "It's either one step forward and two steps back or two steps forward and one step back. I thought we were the latter."

USA, USA, USA: The summer is going pretty good so far for Cavs point guard Kyrie Irving. First, he was offered a new max extension to stay in Cleveland for at least six more years, which he accepted. Then, he learned LeBron James was coming to town. Today, he becomes one of 19 players invited to participate in training camp for a spot on this summer's U.S. national team.

The 22-year-old two-time All-Star will report to Las Vegas at the end of this month in hopes of being one of the 12 players to participate in the 2014 World Cup of Basketball in Spain. Portland's Damian Lillard, Chicago's Derrick Rose and Golden State's Stephen Curry are the other point guards invited. Russell Westbrook, who helped Team USA win a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics, withdrew to rest his knee.

Here's the rest of the 19-man invite list: Bradley Beal, DeMarcus Cousins, Anthony Davis, DeMar DeRozan, Andre Drummond, Kevin Durant, Kenneth Faried, Paul George, Blake Griffin, James Harden, Gordon Hayward, Kyle Korver, Kevin Love, Chandler Parsons and Klay Thompson. 

Irving spent some of the night on the Cavs' bench trying to help his teammates, but did not want to answer questions about his extension or the addition of James. 

YouTube sensation: It started back in high school for Andrew Wiggins. Nicknamed the "Canadian LeBron," Wiggins was able to do things athletically that few his age were able to do, and he became prominent on YouTube. His highlight reel has had a few new additions during his time in Las Vegas, appearing on the top plays every night. On Sunday, it was before the game with a behind the back 360-dunk. In the second quarter against Philadelphia, Wiggins left the crowd buzzing again with his latest maneuver that had his coach impressed.

"I think everyone knows what a fabulous athlete he is," Blatt said. "That was one of the highlights of the week, no question."

Cavs owner Dan Gilbert also liked what he saw. 

The crowd was so impressed that they chanted for a replay, and booed when they didn't get one.

Battle of 2013 picks: 13 months ago there was a healthy debate about what the Cavs would do with the top pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. With no consensus No. 1 player, some people sided with Victor Oladipo. Others liked Ben McLemore. Some thought Nerlens Noel was worth the wait, even though he was coming off knee surgery. The Cavs didn't take any of those guys. Instead, they made the surprise pick, announcing Bennett's name first. 

Noel missed all of the season rehabbing his knee injury, and Bennett had one of the worst seasons ever by a first overall pick. On Monday, the two played against each other for the first time.

"No. We just wanted to go out there and win," Bennett said when asked if there was a little extra to Monday's game because of the matchup.

Bennett scored 14 points, grabbed four rebounds and committed five turnovers. He shot 5-of-12 from the field, including missing all three of his three-point attempts.

Noel got off to a quick start. He finished the game with 12 points on 6-of-10 from the field. He also grabbed six rebounds, had two steals and four blocked shots, including an eraser against Bennett. 

Yes, the debate will rage on.

Tourney time: Monday's game was the final one for the Cavs in the preliminary round of summer league. Now they'll be seeded tournament-style the rest of the way. Depending on the seeding, the Cavs' next game will be either Wednesday or Thursday.

Oakland's Yoenis Cespedes repeats as Home Run Derby champion

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Oakland's Yoenis Cespedes started slowly, but gained momentum to win his second straight Home Run Derby Title on Monday night at Target Field.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – Oakland outfielder Yoenis Cespedes won his second straight Home Run Derby title on a chilly Monday night at Target Field.

Cespedes, who had to win a swing-off to get out of the first round, beat Cincinnati's Todd Frazier in the final round, 9-1. Cespedes, in synch with batting practice pitcher Mike Gallego, hit 30 home runs in the competition.

Toronto's Jose Bautista hit 10 in the first round to earn a bye in the second and advance to the semifinals.

Miami's Giancarlo Stanton did the same for the National League, rocking the ballpark with six long home runs in the first to jump to the semifinals.

Stanton, however, went homerless in the semifinal match against Frazier. It wasn't as if Frazier buried Stanton. He hit just one homer in the semis after hitting six homers in the second round to beat Troy Tulowitzki.

In AL semis, Cespedes beat Bautista, 7-4.

This was the first year that players were given byes in rounds and it seemed to have a negative affect on Bautista and Stanton.

"I think the change hurt some of the players," said Cespedes, through ESPN's Pedro Gomez, who serves as interpreter. "Not only did they have to wait, but they didn't get as much time in the cage."


Cespedes is just the second player to win consecutive home run derbies. Ken Griffey Jr. did it 1998 and 1999. He is just the third player to win multiple titles along with Griffey (three) and Prince Fielder (two).

"I just found out that Ken Griffey Jr., was the only other player to win consecutive titles in the Home Run Derby," said. "This motivated me. After I got out of the first round, I started to find my swing."

He is the first Cuban to win the derby and the second member of the A's. Mark McGwire won it in 1992.

After hitting just three homers in the first round, he hit two in a "swing-off' to advance. The average distance of his 30 home runs was 401 feet with his three longest registering at 452, 447 and 446.

The derby was delayed by rain and that may have accounted for Cespedes' slow start.

"The rain definitely affective us," said Cespedes. "The thing is, that all of us were eady to go and all of a sudden it start to rain, so we had to cool our bodies down and get ready again."

Cespedes, Bautista, Brian Dozier, Jones and Josh Donaldson represented the American League.

Frazier, Stanton, Tulowitzki, Yasiel Puig and Justin Morneau represented the National League.

Cespedes went into the All-Star break for the A's with 14 homers. Frazier hit 19 homers in the first half for the Reds.

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