Quantcast
Channel: Cleveland Sports News
Viewing all 53367 articles
Browse latest View live

Zimmer, Rodriguezes, Frazier rule Carolina League stat sheets: Cleveland Indians Class A Report

0
0

Several of the Indians' brightest prospects are dominating the offensive stat sheets in the Class A Carolina League.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - It's still a couple years away, but there is little doubt that some of the top prospects in the Cleveland Indians farm system are bunched together with the Lynchburg Hillcats in the advanced Class A Carolina League.

The top four of that group include former first-round picks Clint Frazier and Bradley Zimmer, along with Nellie Rodriguez and Luigi Rodriguez, and they dominate the league's offensive stat sheets. Zimmer and the Rodriguezes are headed for the Carolina League-California League All-Star Game later this month. Zimmer, Frazier and Luigi Rodriguez are outfielders, Nellie Rodriguez plays first base.

Here's how they rank among league leaders.

Zimmer: Fifth in average (.302); first in runs scored (51); third in hits (70); tied for second in homers (9); second in stolen bases (26), second in on-base percentage (.401) and third in slugging percentage (.496).

Nellie Rodriguez: 14th in average (.280); sixth in runs scored (37); 10th in hits (63); second in doubles (19); tied for second in homers (9), first in RBI (52); tied for eighth in on-base percentage (.364); fourth in slugging percentage (.496).

Luigi Rodriguez: 21st in average (.273); tied for seventh in runs scored (36); 11th in hits (62); tied for fourth in triples (4); first in home runs (10); tied for sixth in RBI (34); tied for fifth in stolen bases (15); second in slugging percentage (.498).

Frazier: Fourth in runs (38); tied for 12th in hits (61); fourth in doubles (15); tied for sixth in homers (7); fifth in RBI (35). Frazier is hitting .251.

Free swingers: The Hillcats have seven hitters among the top 15 in strikeouts in the Carolina League. The group includes Nellie Rodriguez (first, 73), Frazier (65), Zimmer (62), Luigi Rodriguez (61), Mike Papi (59), Paul Hendrix (57) and Eric Haase (49).

News and notes: Lynchburg has a 34-32 record heading into the weekend, third in the Southern Division but just one game away from being eliminated for the first half title. ... The Hillcats pitching ranks fifth in the eight-team league with a 4.39 ERA. ... Reliever Justin Brantley, the cousin of Indians left fielder Michael Brantley, suffered his first loss of the year on Tuesday, allowing two runs (earned) in 1.2 innings of relief, snapping a 13-inning scoreless streak.

LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS

Midwest honors: Captains first baseman Bobby Bradley and left-hander Sean Brady were named the the Midwest League Player and Pitcher of the Week, respectively, for the week of June 8-14.

In six games, Bradley hit .409 with four home runs, a triple, a double and 10 RBI. Bradley, 19, was drafted in the third round in 2014.

Brady was 2-0, pitching 12 innings and allowing one earned run on only five hits, walking four and striking out 11. Brady, 21, was drafted in the fifth round in 2013.

Streak snapped: The Captains had a six-game win streak snapped on Tuesday when they were held to three hits by the host Great Lakes Loons. It was their second-longest win streak of the year. They won seven straight in early May.

Captains log: Second baseman Claudio Bautisto continues to lead Lake County in hits (72), doubles (19) and average (.305) and is headed to next week's All-Star game. Bradley leads in homers (11) and triples (3). ... The Captains 35-30 record through Thursday is their best heading into the All-Star break since the 2010 team was 44-25. ... The Captains have a 9-2 record against teams from the West Division, including a 5-0 mark at home.


1995 Cleveland Indians: Top 5 moments

0
0

Here are the Top 5 moments (or close to it) of the 1995 Indians season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The 1995 Indians were a great team. Obviously. But it's not just the greatness of a team that makes it memorable. It's individual moments. It's talking to a complete stranger and just mentioning the ALCS that year and knowing you're both thinking about Kenny Lofton barrelling around third base on a passed ball. 

The '95 Indians are bigger than five moments. Not included on this list are Albert Belle's flex or the night they clinched and raised the banner to "The Dance" by Garth Brooks, the favorite song of Steve Olin who died in a boating accident in 1993. Never mind the whole lifting of a city and connecting generations stuff.

Also not included in this list are the little moments that you had that season that you'll never forget. Hey, that's what the comments are for. Mine? Being there for win No. 100 was pretty cool.

With the Indians set to honor the 1995 team this weekend, here are my top 5 moments from that season in chronological order:

July 16: Dennis Eckersley says 'Wow!'

Eck wasn't the first, nor was he the last, to react in awe of the man they called "Baby Bull." The Indians trailed the A's, 4-3, heading to the bottom of the 11th inning and were about to face one of the greatest closers in the history of the game. With two outs and Kenny Lofton standing on second, Ramirez deposited a 2-2 pitch deep into the bleachers and the Indians walked off with their 50th win of the season.

July 18: Albert Belle clears the bases

It was the month of terrorizing legendary closers. Lee Smith was on the mound for the Angels trying to finish off a 5-3 win. Smith gave up a single to Wayne Kirby, a single to Omar Vizquel, walked Carlos Baerga and then watched a win disappear over the wall in center.

September 30: Albert Belle makes history

Belle became the first player in history to hit 50 home runs and 50 doubles, did it in a strike-shortened 144-game season and somehow still didn't win the MVP.

October 3: Tony Pena sends everyone to bed

13 innings into the Indians first playoff game since 1954 ... well, this doesn't need any more set-up.

October 17: Kenny being Kenny

The Indians were one win away from the World Series and facing Randy Johnson at the Kingdome. Clinging to a 1-0 lead (thanks to Kenny Lofton's RBI single in the fifth), the Indians had Ruben Amaro on third and, after a steal, Lofton on second in the eighth inning. Then the ball got away from Mariners catcher Dan Wilson and, well ...

Cleveland's 'story to tell', Indians sign Aiken and more: The End Zone: On & off topic sports talk for June 19, 2015

0
0

The End Zone provides a space for you to discuss all sports news, from to U.S. Open to the Indians' latest game.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Headed into this weekend, the U.S. Open is on many sports fans' minds, but some may prefer to still keep the discussion closer to home.

Welcome to the End Zone, where you can discuss how your favorite golfer is faring, the latest in Browns news, where you're going to watch the Indians game and anything in between. Discussion of any topic is welcome here. 

Take a look at some highlights from today's sports coverage for some jumping-off points:

Keep with cleveland.com/sports over the weekend for all the latest sports news. 

Columbus Clippers prospects showing improvement: Cleveland Indians Class AAA Report

0
0

Columbus Clippers outfielder Carlos Moncrief is finally starting to climb out of the hole at the plate.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Indians prospect Carlos Moncrief has started to climb out of the hitting basement in recent days with some impressive games for the Columbus Clippers.

Moncrief is still below .200 at the plate (.179) but he had some success over his last 10 games. He was 7 of 33 [.212] with five RBI and he walked eight times.

Moncrief, 26, is an older prospect who was drafted out of Chipola College as a pitcher but was moved to the outfield after two years. He has all of the tools for a corner outfielder but he will remain in Columbus if he doesn't continue to improve at the plate.

First baseman Jesus Aguilar is hitting .262 with nine RBI and one home run over his last 10 games. His eighth homer of the season came in Thursday night's 7-1 victory over Durham. Aguilar is hitting .248 and he leads the Clippers with 36 RBIs.

Outfielder Tyler Holt continues to swing a hot bat with a .316 average. He was 12 of 39 [.308] in his last 10 games that included five RBI.

Outfielder Tyler Naquin is hitting .278 in his first nine games with the Clippers after being promoted from Akron. He has one double, one homer and two RBI for Columbus. His combined average is .326.

From the mound: Lefty Nick Maronde's record (0-7) may not indicate success but Maronde has improved over his last few games. He's given up only two earned runs over his last eight innings. But he's managed only three strikeouts over that span.

Familiar faces: In his first eight games with the Clippers, Lonnie Chisenhall is hitting .414 with two homers and nine RBI. ... In nine games for Columbus, shortstop Jose Ramirez is hitting .371 with a double and an RBI.

Upcoming home schedule: June 22, 23, 24 (Norfolk) and June 26, 27, 28 (Durham).

As season went on, David Blatt found his confidence, and Cavaliers found their identity

0
0

Coach David Blatt overcame a steep learning curve in his first year as an NBA coach to guide the Cavaliers to the Finals.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- From the start, David Blatt was charming and sociable. But as his first NBA season went on, the Cavaliers' head coach became defensive. The 19-20 start contributed to his change in demeanor, but most of it was because of what he felt were unwarranted slights.

He had a difficult time with those who didn't respect his overseas coaching credentials. In November he boasted about how he had over 700 wins on his resume. In mid-March he said that he is "one of the more experienced coaches in the world." He hated being called "rookie head coach." When asked a simple question, he found a way to take it as an insult and returned a verbal jab.

To be fair, he faced an overwhelming amount of pressure. He expected to coach a team led by Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson. Soon after, he inherited the best player in the world, and later arguably the NBA's best power forward in Kevin Love through a trade.

In a matter of weeks, the franchise went from a team needing to learn how to win to one expected to contend for a championship.

His relationship with James was dysfunctional. James' postgame comments always seemed to contradict whatever Blatt said just moments earlier. Speculation ran rampant that Blatt's tenure would be cut short. General Manager David Griffin issued a vote of confidence in December, but it was a tough sell as the team was spiraling downward.

The January trades for Timofey Mozgov, Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith gave him a chance to demonstrate that he belonged. With those additions, Blatt drastically changed the Cavs' defensive coverages, and that's when the team took off.

Starting Jan. 15, they went 34-9 to close the regular season, the league's best record during that span. Their defense was smothering, and it became their identity.

In the midst of the run through the late season and all the way through the playoffs, Blatt developed a confidence. He walked with a swagger. In interviews, he wasn't as defensive, but he'd tell you if you were asking what he perceived to be a stupid question.

He finally reached a comfort level, and he took his team all the way to the NBA Finals.

Starting lineups, Game 66: Cleveland Indians vs. Tampa Bay Rays

0
0

Here are the lineups and the pitching matchup for Friday's series opener between the Indians and Rays.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Here are the lineups and the pitching matchup for Friday's series opener between the Indians and Rays.

Pitching matchup: Carlos Carrasco (8-5, 4.38 ERA) vs. Nate Karns (3-3, 3.67 ERA)

Lineup

Indians

1. 2B Jason Kipnis

2. SS Francisco Lindor

3. LF Michael Brantley

4. 1B Carlos Santana

5. DH David Murphy

6. RF Brandon Moss

7. 3B Giovanny Urshela

8. CF Michael Bourn

9. C Roberto Perez

Rays

1. CF Kevin Kiermaier

2. DH Joey Butler

3. 3B Evan Longoria

4. LF David DeJesus

5. 2B Logan Forsythe

6. RF Steven Souza Jr.

7. SS Asdrubal Cabrera

8. 1B Jake Elmore

9. C Rene Rivera

Top 11 moments of Cleveland Cavaliers' season: Chris Fedor

0
0

Chris Fedor lists his Top 11 moments from an impressive season that was capped with a Finals trip. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers' season didn't finish with the championship, but throughout the wild and at-times emotional journey, the team delivered memorable moments, starting with LeBron James' homecoming.

With a mantra of "All In," the city rallied behind a team that turned into underdogs after a few unfortunate injuries. Getting within two victories of an NBA title should leave the Cavs with positive feelings heading into the off-season. 

Here are the top 11 moments of the season:

No. 11

March 25, 2015 - At Memphis: Grindhouse beatdown

A few days before the Cavs were preparing for their final true road test in Memphis, Kevin Love went on the Dan Patrick Show and gave his vote for MVP. Instead of picking his teammate, James, who was leading a charge up the Eastern Conference standings, Love chose his old college buddy, Russell Westbrook, who was putting up historic numbers.

Love's first season in Cleveland was dotted with missteps and, whether he was correct or not in his declaration, his choice was another example.

But there weren't any hard feelings as the Cavs pounded the physical and rugged Grizzlies, the kind of team that had given the Cavaliers trouble during the season. Beating Memphis, 111-89, showed a team capable of winning games with toughness as opposed to pizzazz.

That was the moment the Cavs looked capable of making a deep postseason run.

No. 10

October 31, 2014 - At Chicago: First win

After somehow losing to the lottery-bound Knicks on Opening Night, the Cavs bounced back nicely. Before the season even started, Chicago was expected to be Cleveland's biggest roadblock to an NBA Finals appearance and while it was only one win, it helped the Cavs avoid their first losing streak.

James scored 36 points, Derrick Rose hurt his ankle, Kyrie Irving asked Mike Miller if the atmosphere was similar to the playoffs and the Cavs won in overtime, 114-108.

No. 9

February 26, 2015 - Golden State Warriors: National TV statement

Going into the primetime showdown, the conversation centered on the Golden State Warriors, the team with the best record in the NBA and Stephen Curry, the apparent frontrunner for the MVP. But the Cavs were in the middle of a flurry during the second half of the season and James was healthy again, unlike the first meeting between the two title contenders.

With the spotlight shining, James likely heard the noise as well and had the look of a player wanting to make a statement.

He did.

Aggressive from the opening tip, James scored a season-high 42 points on 15-of-25 shooting and led his team to a 110-99 win. The other MVP candidate, Curry, scored a meager 18 points on 5-of-17 shooting.

No. 8

January 5, 2015 - At Philadelphia: Dion Waiters traded

The Cavs, a team with lofty expectations before the season started, were 19-15. One day earlier, GM David Griffin addressed the media, hoping to quell the swirling rumors.

A ho-hum Monday night in Philly turned into one of the season's biggest moments.

With James resting his injuries and Kyrie Irving missing the game as well, Waiters was primed for a big performance in front of family and friends. It never materialized.

Shortly before tipoff, he was taken out of the starting lineup because of a trade. The rumors swirled of a three-team blockbuster between Cleveland, New York and Oklahoma City, which brought J.R. Smith and Iman Shumpert to the Cavaliers in the first of two shrewd trades that helped the Cavaliers turn the season around.

No. 7

January 28, 2015 - Portland Trail Blazers: No LeBron, No problem

With James watching from the bench because of a sprained right wrist and Love struggling, the night belonged to Irving.

The dazzling young point guard scored an arena-record 55 points, including 24 of the team's final 28.

When the score was tied at 94 late in the fourth quarter, Irving put on a dribbling display before stepping into another three-pointer. Bang.

It was his team-record 11th of the night, one that sent James running onto the floor to greet his teammate with an emotional chest bump.

Two free throws later and the Cavs had a 99-94 win. James had singled out Irving in his letter announcing a return to Cleveland and seeing Irving carry the team to a victory on a night when James was sidelined was a moment of validation.

No. 6

January 15, 2015 - At Los Angeles: Going bowling

In the midst of a west coast roadtrip, the Cavaliers hopped on a bus, heading for practice in Los Angeles. That's what they thought anyway.

Instead, the bus took a detour and pulled into a bowling alley. Head coach David Blatt, who no doubt felt the sizzling heat, felt the team needed to get away from basketball after losing a sixth straight game in Phoenix.

That trip helped the Cavs loosen up and escape the drama that had surrounded them since the off-season.

More importantly, the team beat the Lakers, snapping its season-long, six-game losing streak and reaching the .500 mark again. The Cavs won the next game against the Clippers as well and 10 more after, starting a furious sprint in the second half of the season.

No. 5

June 7, 2015 - At Golden State: Game 2 of NBA Finals

In the first game of the NBA Finals, the Cavs gave the Warriors all they could handle before running out of steam in overtime. The second game of the series also improbably went into overtime. But this time the result was different, with the shorthanded Cavs escaping with a 95-93 win.

James finished with a triple-double, scoring 39 points to go with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

LeBron JamesCleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates after end of the overtime period of Game 2 in Oakland, Sunday, June 7. The Cavaliers won 95-93 in overtime. 

It was Matthew Dellavedova, however, whose legend continued to grow.

Starting in place of the injured Irving, the player known as "Delly" grabbed an offensive rebound late, was fouled and made two go-ahead free throws. He also forced Curry into an airball on the defensive end, capping a disastrous shooting night from Golden State's MVP and earning Dellavedova national praise.

It wasn't just one win in the Finals. Many had written the Cavs off after Irving's knee injury and as soon as the final buzzer sounded, James grabbed the basketball, spiked it off the Oracle Arena hardwood and let the emotions pour out.

No. 4

May 26, 2015 - Atlanta Hawks: Game 4 of Eastern Conference finals

The Cavs were labeled as "underdogs" heading into the conference finals, a notion that James scoffed at.

He let his play do the talking. Averaging a near triple-double, James led the Cavs to a sweep against Atlanta -- a team that won 60 wins in the regular season and earned the East's top seed.

Behind suffocating defense, James' overpowering offense and Irving's return after missing games two and three, the clinching win turned into an early celebration. The Cavs won by 30 points, 118-88, leading to the second Finals trip in franchise history.

No. 3

March 12, 2015 - At San Antonio: Kyrie Irving's flurry

The last time James was in San Antonio, he was forced to watch helplessly as his Miami empire got dismantled. The loss in the NBA Finals led to him searching for a exit strategy. It led him back to Cleveland, joining promising youngster Irving.

With three minutes remaining, and the Spurs extending their lead to 10 points, it appeared it would be another loss.

The Cavs, however, kept fighting. The Spurs led by six with 33.9 seconds left. That's when James' new hand-picked partner delivered.

Irving buried a three-pointer. Then he hit another one at the buzzer to send the game into OT. He scored the final nine points of regulation and 11 of the 18 in overtime. Irving finished with 57 points on 20-of-32 from the field, including 7-of-7 from three-point range on a Gregg Popovich-led team.

That doesn't happen, especially in San Antonio. But it did on March 12, and James left the court in awe. Irving had his signature moment on an enormous stage. And James had his new partner, with Irving stepping into Dwyane Wade's old role.

"The kid is special, we all know it, we all see it," James said. "For him to go out and put on a performance like he did tonight was incredible."

No. 2

October 30, 2014 - Home opener: LeBron James' homecoming

The scoreboard showed a disappointing 95-90 loss to the woeful Knicks. The box score revealed a dreadful performance from James, who scored 17 points and committed eight turnovers.

But none of that mattered. Because James was back in a Cavaliers uniform after once turning his back on the city of Cleveland.

October 30, 2014 was James' night. It was always going to be his night. It was "one of the biggest sporting events ever," which started with his goosebump-inducing pregame introduction.

No. 1

May 10, 2015 - At Chicago: Game 4 of Eastern Conference semifinals

Why were fans so heartbroken when James left Cleveland in the summer of 2010? Why did some cry when James announced his return to Cleveland in the summer? Why was owner Dan Gilbert willing to whatever it took to bring James back?

Because of moments like Game 4 against Chicago.

The officials missed a near-blunder from Blatt when the coach tried calling timeout with none remaining. Then Blatt tried to redeem himself by drawing up a play. But James scratched it. He called his own number, hit a game-winning shot and silenced the Chicago crowd while saving the Cavs.

"I've made big shots before in the postseason. Obviously this was a big one for our team," James said. "You don't want to go down 3-1 to anyone. I was able to regain home court with the shot. For me, I just don't like letting my teammates down."

It looked as if that moment would be the one to lead the Cavs to a title, but the Warriors proved to be too deep and talented in the Finals. 

Kevin Love sacrificed for the Cavaliers early, and was missed by them late

0
0

Kevin Love took time to adjust to his new role and was playing some of his best basketball before a shoulder injury knocked him out of the playoffs. Cavs fans could only wonder what might have been if Love had stayed healthy.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Kevin Love was the final piece. He would complete Cleveland's version of The Big Three.

Sending 2014 No. 1 overall draft pick Andrew Wiggins - a potential franchise player - to Minnesota was a hefty price, but with LeBron James back, the Cavs were forced to immediately transition into win-now mode.

Most knew Love would be the one to sacrifice the most, because as a power forward he wouldn't have the ball in his hands as often as he did as the star in  Minnesota. It became apparent early on that he would struggle in his new role.

After the team's final preseason game in Memphis, a visibly frustrated Love voiced his concerns.

"My entire life I've played the game from inside-out," Love said. "So the more touches I can get inside to get myself going, the better. I'm not accustomed to starting out a game shooting a three, so it's just something that I see."

It was a plea for help.

Love had his moments during the season, but wrestled with consistency within the offense. He was dejected, and kept to himself. He was typically the last player to leave the locker room.

Love posted two five-point games in the first week of February. The Cavs were hot, and when Indiana broke Cleveland's league-high 12-game winning streak on Feb. 6, it was Love who was the most agitated after the game.

"Oh yeah, definitely frustrating," he said of his play. "I think it's one of the toughest situations I've had to deal with, but at the end of the day we're winning basketball games...At the same time, there's no blueprint for what I should be doing, but I'll try my best to figure it out."

Immediately after that story ran, James tweeted:


Love provided floor spacing as a stretch-four forward, which was beneficial to the playmaking of James and Kyrie Irving.

And as he settled in late in the season, Love gave the Cavs hustle, effort, rebounding and everything that David Blatt and the coaching staff asked for.

Love finished the season nearly averaging a double-double: 16.4 points, third-highest on the team, and a team-leading 9.7 rebounds.

Just when Love was playing some of his best basketball, his season came to an abrupt end in the first round of the playoffs against Boston when Kelly Olynyk dislocated his left shoulder battling for a loose ball.

Love was forced to watch the rest of the playoffs from the bench, and Cavs fans could only dream about what might have been if Love had been healthy through the NBA Finals.


'I don't want the easy route': QB Tristen Wallace shows why Buckeyes chose him: Ohio State football recruiting

0
0

"It's about the work ethic," Wallace said. "Ohio State is no doubt the hardest-working university in the country right now. There's no doubt about that. That's what I want. I want a challenge. I don't want the easy route." Watch video

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Tristen Wallace stepped into the drill at the 50-yard-line on Ohio State's indoor practice field at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center on Friday and ripped a perfect spiral on an out route. 

Spectators along the sideline looked at each other with smiles on their faces. 

DeSoto hallways depict Dontre Wilson as a legend, explain why Ohio State should expect more

The looks said it all -- "Wow." 

You could tell that the 2016 quarterback from DeSoto, Texas is an Ohio State-caliber prospect. It was no surprise to those unaware that Wallace is the quarterback the Buckeyes chose in his recruiting class. 

"People may have their doubts or may have their opinions about me coming here with the quarterback situation, but it's not a big deal," Wallace said after his workout. "It's how you approach it. And I am going to approach it that I am going to soak everything up like a sponge and learn."

After Wallace was done throwing, Danny Clark, Ohio State's 2017 quarterback commit, stepped into the drill and fired off a rocket pass of his own. 

Wallace is aware of the challenges. The Buckeyes' current QB situation is nuts -- Braxton Miller, Cardale Jones and J.T. Barrett are fighting to be the Buckeyes' starter in the fall -- but the future isn't much clearer. 

Ohio State welcomed in two top quarterbacks in the 2015 class in Torrance Gibson and Joey Burrow, then Clark is coming in right after him. 

There's a distinct possibility that Wallace could never see the field if things aren't done right. There is too much talent for him to see the field without playing his best. 

But that didn't stop him from committing to Ohio State. 

"It's about the work ethic," Wallace said. "Ohio State is no doubt the hardest-working university in the country right now. There's no doubt about that. That's what I want. I want a challenge. I don't want the easy route." 

Rated the No. 3 dual-threat quarterback in the 2016 class in the 247Sports composite rankings, Wallace shouldn't feel like he has anything to worry about. The 6-foot-3, 228-pound prospect is one of the best in the country. He racked up scholarship offers from Baylor, Mississippi State, Nebraska, TCU, Texas, UCLA and others before committing to the Buckeyes. 

And he looked the part on Friday. Wearing an Ohio State Nike DryFit shirt and Ohio State cleats, Wallace was flinging the ball around the field while working with Urban Meyer and Buckeyes quarterback coach Tim Beck. 

He's the guy Ohio State selected. He's the one that proved to Meyer that his value was worth shutting down other top 2016 quarterback prospects. The Buckeyes were involved with many. 

Right now, that was a wise choice. Wallace said he's completely done with the recruiting process, that he's 100 percent, all-in for the Buckeyes. 

But he's one option of many. He understands that seeing the field in the future isn't going to be an easy path. 

"They chose me for a reason," Wallace said. "It just means I have to work even harder. I have to go out every day and prove them right, try to get better and be coachable. That's the No. 1 thing with these coaches. Just be coachable and take in everything they're saying and just apply it to your game."

Cleveland Indians tab right-hander Cody Anderson to make major league debut on Sunday

0
0

Cody Anderson posted a 4-11 record and 5.44 ERA in 25 starts with Double-A Akron last year. Three months into the 2015 season, he'll make his major league debut.

Cody Anderson.pngCody Anderson will get his MLB debut as Sunday's starting pitcher for the Indians. 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cody Anderson posted a 4-11 record and 5.44 ERA in 25 starts with Double-A Akron last year. Three months into the 2015 season, he'll make his major-league debut.

The Tribe tabbed Anderson to make Sunday's start against Tampa Bay. They are confident his 2014 campaign was an aberration. Based on his career minor-league numbers, that might be the case.

After he fashioned a 9-4 record and 2.34 ERA in 23 starts for Class A Carolina in 2013, Anderson was named the organization's Pitcher of the Year. He earned the same distinction from the Carolina League.

So what happened in 2014?

"By his own admission," said Indians manager Terry Francona, "I think he felt like he was starting to maybe be on the radar and just tried to be a little better than he was ready to be."

The Indians placed Anderson on the 40-man roster after the 2014 season. He logged a 1.69 ERA in nine starts for the RubberDucks. In 48 innings, he totaled 35 strikeouts against only nine walks. He merited a promotion to Triple-A Columbus, where he compiled a 2.33 ERA in three starts, with 18 strikeouts in 19 1/3 innings.

Anderson was scheduled to fly into Cleveland on Friday night. He'll spend Saturday with the club before he is officially added to the roster on Sunday. Francona said he expects Anderson to make more than just one start.

"He worked so hard over the winter," Francona said. "He's a big, strong kid. He didn't have a lot of flexibility. And, because of that, it was kind of hard for him to drive the ball down in the zone. He worked so hard at it at the strength and conditioning camp that, now all of a sudden, he's throwing the ball downhill. He's got a little two-seamer to go with it. So now, with all that strength and velocity, he's working down and he's having a lot of success."

As Kyrie Irving matured, so did his game - and his impact for the Cavaliers

0
0

Kyrie Irving saw his game - and his relationship with LeBron James - grow to new levels in 2014-15.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Kyrie Irving was already an accomplished player and was eager to show LeBron James, his new teammate, why.

Out of the gate, he played his flashy game with little regard to who was on the floor. He was unstoppable for the most part, but some of the shots he took were head-scratchers. James bit his tongue.

The four-time MVP had never played with a ball-dominating, scoring point guard of Irving's ability. Each player would need to adjust his game, but Irving found out that he would be the one going first.

On Nov. 5, Irving led the team with 34 points in a loss to Utah. But in 45 minutes he failed to register an assist.

The night before in a loss to Portland, there were reports James and Irving had a dispute in the locker room, prompting Irving to dash without addressing the media. Irving missed 14 of his 17 shots that night. That's when James said the team was developing "bad habits."

As the team's point guard, for Irving to not have a single assist was inexcusable, and James couldn't stay quiet any longer.

"He came up to me and was like, 'One, you can never have another game with no assists,' " Irving said, describing James' words. "'You can damn near have just one, two, three, but you can't have zero.' "

That's when Irving's maturation began. He realized he wasn't going to impress James just by getting to the basket; it would take making his teammates better.

Game-by-game, Irving won over James. He started to pick his spots, deferring to teammates before imposing his will. For large portions of the season, he was the Cavaliers' most consistent player. Irving and James made the Eastern Conference All-Star team together. He turned into a player James could rely on and trust.

"Everybody was putting pressure on what me and 'Bron were going to do," Irving said. "How was I going to have to adjust? How was I going to have to be a more pure point guard? 'Be this, be that...' For me, I was just like God blessed me with a lot of talent that I'm thankful for, and I really worked my tail off to have that ability to be one of the best players on any floor at any given time. That's just the confidence that I have in myself."

It was a gigantic blow for the Cavs when Irving fractured his kneecap in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. He made tremendous strides throughout the season, and no one appreciated his sacrifices more than James.

Asdrubal Cabrera greets his former team with a home run: Cleveland Indians notes

0
0

The Rays shortstop, playing his first game in Cleveland since the Indians dealt him to Washington last July, socked a solo home run to right in the second inning on Friday.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Asdrubal Cabrera watched the first pitch sail wide. Carlos Carrasco followed up the wayward, 95-mph fastball with a change-up.

Cabrera pounced on it, providing a fitting reminder of the pop he occasionally wielded at the plate during his tenure with the Tribe. The Rays shortstop, playing his first game in Cleveland since the Indians dealt him to Washington last July, socked a solo home run to right in the second inning on Friday.

Cabrera joined the Indians during the stretch run in 2007. Then, he was known as a young defensive wizard, a native Venezuelan who wore No. 13 and aspired to play shortstop the way Omar Vizquel did in Cleveland for 11 years. Cabrera eventually developed some power to accompany his defensive prowess. He slugged 25 home runs in 2011, his first All-Star season. He returned to the Midsummer Classic in 2012.

As he aged, his defensive range decreased. His offensive numbers tumbled in 2013, when he posted a .299 on-base percentage and .700 OPS. Jose Ramirez replaced him at shortstop following his trade to the Nationals last summer.

In eight years with the Indians, he compiled a .270/.331/.410 slash line with 82 home runs.

"At times, he struggled as a player, more than he wanted to," said Tribe skipper Terry Francona. "But he always wanted to play every day and he fought through a lot of frustration and genuinely cared about winning. I always admired that a lot about him.

"When he didn't play well, he owned it. But he really cared. You get to see a guy in the dugout through a lot, thick and thin and frustration -- that was the thing that stuck out to me, that he wanted to win."

Neck and neck: Yan Gomes is listed as day-to-day with a stiff neck. Francona sat him on Friday, as Roberto Perez batted ninth and caught. Gomes exited Thursday's victory against the Cubs.

No-mentum: Francona was pleased, but not surprised, with how his team bounced back from Wednesday's 17-0 loss. The Indians struck first on Thursday en route to a 4-3 victory.

"Regardless of how bad you get beat up the day before, it really doesn't carry over," Francona said. "We got on the board first. That's always important."

Good cause: Members of the Indians' roster, coaching staff and front office will serve as guest bartenders at The Corner at Progressive Field following Wednesday's game against the Tigers. The matinee begins at noon.

Tips and 20 percent of proceeds will go to VeloSano, an annual charity bike ride event that benefits cancer research at the Cleveland Clinic. Fans unable to attend the game can attend the event starting 30 minutes after the last out of the contest. The event is expect to wrap up about 3 1/2 hours after the final pitch.

Former Glenville High WR Shane Wynn ecstatic to join Cleveland Browns: 'It's an unreal feeling' '

0
0

Former Glenville High product Shane Wynn, who scored dozens of TDs in high school, is getting a chance to play for his hometown Browns. He's hoping to make the final roster.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Former Glenville High receiver Shane Wynn was working out back at Indiana Friday afternoon when his phone started blowing up.

"Everybody heard the news before I did,'' Wynn told Northeast Ohio media group. "I'm playing for the Cleveland Browns. It's an unreal feeling to be honest.''

Wynn, the Indiana product, is coming back home. Waived by the Falcons on Thursday, he was awarded to the Browns via waivers on Friday. To make room, they waived rookie receiver Paul Browning, the undrafted free agent from Colorado State-Pueblo.

"To fulfill a dream of playing in the NFL and for your hometown -- that's crazy,'' said Wynn, who was signed by the Falcons as an undrafted rookie following the draft. "I still can't believe it right now, but when I get back to Cleveland, it will probably sink in.''

Wynn is the second Glenville player on the Browns roster, joining his good friend and Pro Bowl safety Donte Whitner.

"Donte is definitely going to be excited,'' said the diminutive Wynn (5-6, 167).  "I know him and Joe Haden pretty well. I met Joe at a barbershop downtown when I was in high school. Joe actually came to see me play at Glenville, and ever since then we've been close.''

Wynn, who helped Glenville get to the state championship game in 2009, scored on a fly route in front of Haden that game, one of his more than 30 TDs in high school.

"He was proud,'' said Wynn. "Him and Donte? This is going to be crazy right there.''

Wynn, who grew up on the border of Cleveland and East Cleveland, began his football career with the East Cleveland Chiefs, the Pop Warner team that was  chronicled in the 2005 Plain Dealer series, a Season on the Hill.

"First you start with the Chiefs in Cleveland, then you got to Glenville, then you leave home and go to Indiana, and then you end up right back in Cleveland,'' he said. "It definitely is a dream come true.''

Wynn's high school coach, Ted Ginn Sr., was thrilled to hear the news.

"With him going to the Cleveland Browns, that's a hometown dream,'' Ginn Sr. told NEOMG. "When you're trying to build a team, you want people that are in for the mission. You can't find a guy who will be about the mission more than Shane Wynn.''

Ginn watched the pint-sized Wynn turn on his blazing 4.29 speed and dart past big, hulking defenders. At 5-6, he's the shortest player on the Browns roster, even smaller than Andrew Hawkins (5-7) and Taylor Gabriel (5-8).  

 "That's probably the biggest misconception of Shane,'' he said. "His size doesn't indicate who he is as a player. If you watch Shane, his hands are oversized for his size, He's got real strong hips and waist. He plays like he's six feet. That's where the discrepancy comes in when people look at him.''

As a senior, Wynn returned nine punt and kicks for touchdowns. He also won state titles in 2009 and 2010 in the 4x200m relay and the 4x400m indoor relay.

"If the game were on the line, that's who I would use and I did that for four years with Shane, in track and field and in football,'' said Ginn Sr. "He's a very explosive kid, very competitive, very athletic. He's overcome every odd that you could every think of. The benefit of him serving in this community will be off the chain. He's a player and a great kid.''

Wynn knows he wouldn't be here without Ginn Sr.

"That's my dog,'' said Wynn. "I'm happy I could make him happy.''

He also might not be here without his mentor Ted Ginn Jr., who plays for the Panthers.

"If he's not the main reason I'm here, he's a big part of it,'' said Wynn. "He's going to be pretty pumped up.''

Ginn Jr. knocked the little devil off Wynn's shoulder in high school.

"He always showed tough love to me and didn't let me do stuff,'' Wynn told the Plain Dealer last month. "When I was in high school, he fought me because he didn't let me do something I wanted to do.''

Wynn is also ecstatic to come to the land of little receivers, where Hawkins and Gabriel are treated like giants. Together, they can be three mini-amigos.

 "I like that,'' Wynn said. "I see that. I couldn't have ended up in a better situation than this.''

Wynn has never met Hawkins or Gabriel, but he feels like he already knows them. In fact, he's spent the entire offseason studying film of Browns offensive skill players, including fellow speedster Travis Benjamin.

"Kyle Shanahan is the offensive coordinator at Atlanta,'' said Wynn. "We just watched the film on the Browns. I've seen Hawkins and Gabriel and those two are remarkable players. I'm really stuck on Hawkins right now to be honest. He's pretty fast.''

Wynn, who finished his Hoosier career tied for second in school history in receptions (189), seventh in receiving yards (2,189) and tied for third in receiving touchdowns (20), doesn't tell tall tales.

"I'm 5-6,'' he said. "I wanna believe I'm 5-7, but I'm not.''

But he isn't short on personality or character.

 "I have the ability to brighten up a room whenever anyone's down,'' he said. "I'll bring my work ethic to the Browns facility and a happy face and more speed.''

He hopes to make it stick here after things went south in Atlanta.

"All I can do is go out there and learn what I have to learn and do what I have to do,'' he said.

When he called his mother, Kimberly, and told her the news, she couldn't believe it.

But he totally understood.

"I still can't either,'' he said.

Live updates and chat: Cleveland Indians vs. Tampa Bay Rays, Game 66

0
0

Get live updates and chat with beat writer Zack Meisel in the comments section below as the Indians and Rays battle at Progressive Field.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Get live updates and chat with beat writer Zack Meisel in the comments section below as the Indians and Rays battle at Progressive Field. Cleveland's Carlos Carrasco will oppose Tampa's Nate Karns.

Game 66: Indians (31-34) vs. Rays (38-30)

First pitch: 7:10 p.m. ET at Progressive Field

TV/radio: STO; WMMS FM/100.7; WTAM 1100.

Iman Shumpert's arrival started the transformation of Cleveland Cavaliers' defense

0
0

While his offensive contributions were unsurprisingly sporadic, Shumpert gave the Cavs exactly what they were looking for in early January: A defensive pillar, who agitated All-Stars during the memorable playoff run.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- On Jan. 5, 2015, Iman Shumpert was getting ready to watch his New York Knicks teammates take the court for a regular-season matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. Hours later he boarded a plane, on his way to Cleveland along with J.R. Smith, as the two newest ingredients in Cleveland's championship elixir.

That one phone call from general manager David Griffin changed the Cavs' fortunes.

In the Eastern Conference, playing against lethal backcourts seemingly every night, the Cavs needed a feisty, athletic defensive-minded wing player. They were trying to defend the perimeter without any athleticism, using older veterans Shawn Marion and Mike Miller.

They needed that to change quickly after the Cavs stumbled to a 19-20 record behind a leaky defense. They needed a player like Shumpert, who gained a reputation early in his career as a tough, hard-nosed defender.

Behind his signature flat-top hair cut, creative rap verses, flashy style choices and a streaky shooting stroke was a player with potential to one day be a part of the NBA's All-Defensive Team.

He arrived, along with Smith, two days before the Cavs made another trade. This time for center Timofey Mozgov, a much-needed rim protector.

The new trio, and Shumpert in particular, gave LeBron James and the Cavs a new belief that the early championship hopes and high expectations weren't a fallacy.

While his offensive contributions were unsurprisingly sporadic, Shumpert gave the Cavs exactly what they were looking for in early January: A defensive pillar, who agitated All-Stars during the memorable playoff run. 


Tristan Thompson blossomed in an expanded role for the Cavaliers during their playoff run

0
0

Tristan Thompson had started 189 straight games for the Cavaliers, showing vast improvement in each of his three seasons. When LeBron James singled Thompson out in his heartfelt letter announcing the return to Cleveland, Thompson's role was set to expand.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Tristan Thompson had started 189 straight games for the Cleveland Cavaliers, showing vast improvement in each of his three seasons. When LeBron James singled Thompson out in his heartfelt letter announcing the return to Cleveland, Thompson's role was set to expand.

He was about to become more than an undersized center with an unsightly offensive game -- the "other" Cavs first round pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. He was about to become the starting power forward on a team with championship dreams.

Then everything changed.

On Aug. 23, 2014, after months of rumors, the Cavaliers completed the blockbuster trade for Kevin Love, the final member of Cleveland's formidable Big Three. Love was a guy the Cavs had coveted for years, a three-time All-Star who was about to rip away Thompson's starting role.

But Thompson didn't sulk or complain. He moved to the bench and attacked his new job with the same ferocity that he shows when fighting for rebounds. He embodied Cleveland's selfless culture and "team-first" credo.

Then, in the first round against Boston, Love suffered a dislocated shoulder and was lost for the playoffs.

Some began writing Cleveland's epitaph, but Thompson and his teammates made sure it didn't happen.

The Cavs fought the adversity and built a new identity centered on defense and rebounding, with Thompson leading the transformation in the starting role. His insatiable thirst to grab every rebound helped the Cavaliers limit opponents' possessions, bailed out poor offensive sets and killed the opponent's spirit, one rebound at a time. His defensive versatility allowed the Cavs to use schemes that wouldn't have been possible with Love occupying the power forward spot. 

Making the NBA Finals takes hard work, toughness and determination. It takes a team willing to do the little things that don't always appear in the box score -- things that define Thompson.

For all those reasons, Thompson showed why betting on himself and rejecting a contract offer prior to the season was so wise. He earned a large new contract with his postseason performance and the Cavs will have to fight off a handful of suitors to keep him in Cleveland.

Tampa Bay's Steven Sousa leads 2015 AL Rookie of the Year watch

0
0

Tampa Bay outfielder Steven Sousa, among rookies in the American League, has had an impressive start to the season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Quick, name the AL and NL Rookies of the Year in 2014 as named by the Baseball Writers Association of America? If you said White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu and Mets right-hander Jacob deGrom, give yourself a pat on the back.

Here's a quick look at the leading candidates for the AL Rookie of the Year award:

1. RF Steven Sousa, Rays, .228 (51-for-224), 14 homers, 31 RBI, .780 OPS: Sousa, 26, leads the Rays in homers and steals (eight). On Monday against Washington he walked five times. The last AL rookie to walk five times in a game was Jim Norris of the Indians in 1977.

2. CF Billy Burns, A's, .323 (60-for-186), two homers, 14 RBI, .793 OPS: Burns, 25, leads AL rookies in hits and steals (14). The A's recalled him in May and he's started 29 straight games in center field and scored 29 runs.

3. RHP Nate Karns, Rays, 4-3, 3.53 ERA: Karns, 27, made five big league starts with Washington and the Rays before this season. He made his 14th start this season Friday and beat the Indians. He's struck out 72, walked 31 and allowed 67 hits in 79 innings.

4. SS Carlos Correa, Astros, .319 (15-for-47), three homers, seven RBI, .921 OPS: Houston made Correa the No.1 pick in the 2012 draft and just brought the 6-4, 210-pound right-handed hitter to the big leagues. He's made quite an impression in only 11 games.

5. OF Joey Butler, Rays, .336 (47-for-140), six homers, 19 RBI, .903 OPS: Butler, 29, leads all AL rookies in batting average and slugging percentage. Butler's big league experience consisted of 14 games with Texas and St. Louis before this year. He has 10 doubles and a .536 slugging percentage.

6. RHP Lance McCullers, Astros, 3-2, 2.45 ERA: The Astros drafted Correa with the first pick and McCullers with the 41st pick in 2012. McCullers made his big league debut on May 18 and has struck out 46 with 11 earned runs in 40 1/3 innings. Seattle knocked him around on Friday.

7. LF Mark Canha, A's .247 (42-for-170), eight homers, 26 RBI, .739 OPS: Canha spent all last season at Class AAA New Orleans with the Marlins. He ranks second among AL rookies with eight homers and has scored 26 runs.

8. LF Delino DeShields, Rangers, .269 (39-for-145), 12 RBI, .744 OPS: DeShields is currently on the disabled list with a strained left hamstring. He ranks second among AL rookies with 38 runs and 13 steals. He's shown extra base power with nine doubles and four triples.

9. RHP Carson Smith, Mariners, 1-2, 1.59 ERA, four saves in five chances: The 6-6 Smith ranks second among AL rookies with 30 appearances. He's struck out 34, walked five and leads AL rookies in saves.

10. RHP Aaron Sanchez, Blue Jays, 5-4, 3.55 ERA: Sanchez, selected by the Blue Jays in the first round in 2010, is third among AL rookies with 66 innings. His control is questionable (32 walks, 42 strikeouts), but he's 2-0 in his last three starts.

Others to consider: Joey Gallo, Rangers, Alex Colome, Rays, Francisco Lindor, Indians, Kela Keone, Rangers, Devon Travis, Blue Jays (DL).

Next week: NL Cy Young watch.

Cleveland Browns have Terry Talkin' about Johnny Manziel, spring surprises and tight ends -- Terry Pluto (photos, video)

0
0

Johnny Mazniel says all the right things, but can he play? Can the Browns find good tight ends? Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- There was little that surprised in Johnny Manziel's press conference. He knows what to say about changing his life and being a good teammate.

"Off the field, I was a little bit of a distraction," he said. "I feel bad about that today... It's not fair for (Joe) Haden having to be answering questions about me every day. It's not fair for Joe Thomas and all these guys to just continue to have questions asked about me. I don't think that's fair at all, and I don't want that on them."

Manziel has his former high school coach living with him. He says he is working hard. The Browns have been quietly complimentary about his work ethic. They also said he was working hard last season. But when he had a chance to start late in the season, it was obvious that he wasn't physically or mentally prepared.

New offensive coordinator John DeFilippo praised Manziel's "improved pocket awareness." He said Manziel is "getting to his second and third progressions."

The Browns have been using Manziel quite a bit under center, and working out of the huddle. Sounds like basic stuff, but Manziel was always in the shotgun and rarely used a huddle at Texas A&M. In many ways, he is learning what it means to do the fundamental things in the NFL.

DeFilippo said Manziel has had "very, very few issues pre-snap with him in terms of delay of games, forgetting motions, not sending a shift we wanted... The big picture thinking with Johnny, he's improved a great deal."

The day that I watched Manziel, he made a few good medium throws. He also had trouble converting on the red-zone drills, often over-throwing receivers in the end zone. At times, he seemed afraid to make a mistake.

The Browns have not made a big deal about it, but it still appears that the 6-foot Manziel has trouble seeing the field when standing in the pocket. He tends to roll out quickly.

DeFilippo did say Manziel needed to improve his accuracy, and that was clear on Thursday. At times, Manziel seemed to be rushing things. I do think confidence also is an issue. He was shocked by how poorly he played last season.
 

For all the discussion about Manziel's off-field issues and his 10 weeks in a rehabilitation center, the biggest question is if he has what it takes to be an NFL quarterback. Right now, he's not even close to the caliber of play that Josh McCown has shown at quarterback.

Connor Shaw and Thad Lewis are not receiving much of a chance right now. McCown is with the first string, and Manziel receives most of the work with the backups.

ABOUT TAYLOR GABRIEL

The Browns wrapped up their minicamp Thursday and I asked Mike Pettine what players have impressed the coaches -- players who have not been mentioned much.

The first name from the lips of the Browns coach was Taylor Gabriel. The coaches absolutely love the 5-foot-8, 170-pound receiver from Abilene Christian. As a rookie, he caught 36 passes for an average of 17.3 yards. That 17.3 average was No. 3 in the NFL.

Something many missed about Gabriel's 2014 season was how he was negatively impacted by the return of Josh Gordon.

In the five games that Gordon played, Gabriel averaged only 29 snaps. He caught four passes. Former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan became focused on passes to Gordon. Taylor was forgotten even when on the field.

In the 11 games that Gordon was suspended, Gabriel caught 32 passes and had a nice season.

Gabriel is in the mix with veterans Andrew Hawkins, Dwayne Bowe and Brian Hartline. Travis Benjamin also is working at receiver.

Gabriel dropped only four passes. He's quick. His 7.6 YAC (yards after catch) ranked No. 4 in the NFL. The Browns need to find ways to put the ball in his hands.

Gabriel made the team as an undrafted free agent. The Browns knew very little about him when he came to camp for a tryout. He spent time with former Browns receiver Miles Austin and Hawkins -- learning everything the veterans could teach him.

Special teams coach Chris Taber has been working with Gabriel as a punt returner.

"He's one of the guys that we've been developing for a long time," said Tabor. "He has gotten much better at it. He looks so much more comfortable doing it right now."

At Abilene Christian, Gabriel averaged 18 yards a punt return, including three for touchdowns. Returning punts was absolute misery last season, so maybe Gabriel can change that.

ABOUT EMMANUEL BIBBS AND TIGHT ENDS

When talking about tight ends, Pettine talked about two categories:

"Y" tight ends are primarily blockers. For the Browns, that would be Jim Dray. Gary Barnidge can also fill that role.

"F" tight ends are primarily receivers. That's Rob Housler, a veteran free agent signed in the off-season. Barnidge also can help in this role.

Sixth-rounder Randall Telfer is out with foot surgery and could miss part of the season.

Then Pettine mentioned a kid named "Bibbs."

I was thinking, "Who?"

The young man in question is E.J. Bibbs, an undrafted free agent from Iowa State. He has impressed the coaches and could find a spot at least on the practice squad.

Bibbs is an interesting prospect. He was expected to be drafted, but had meniscus knee surgery a few weeks before Iowa State opened the season. Then he had a knee problem late in the year, missing the final two games.

Obviously, he wasn't 100 percent physically, yet Bibbs was named first-team All-Big 12. He caught 45 passes in 10 games, eight for touchdowns. He's 6-foot-3, 260 pounds. He is more of a "F" or receiving tight end. The knee issues prevented him from being drafted, but he's an outstanding pick-up after the draft.

ABOUT THE BROWNS

1. Offensive coordinator John DeFilippo is treating Duke Johnson like a new toy. The rookie running back not only has been lined up in the backfield, he has been used in the slot -- and even lined up like a wide receiver. The Browns believe their third-rounder can be a major weapon as a pass catching back. Special teams coach Chris Tabor has been using Johnson as a kick returner.

2. Pierre Desir looked very good in Thursday's practice. The second-year cornerback is 6-foot-2 and 206 pounds, that size helping him in coverage of taller receivers. He was inactive for the first 11 games, then had some nice moments in the final five games. Pettine loves defensive backs, so Desir could be a factor.

3. Cameron Erving's main position will be right guard when training camp opens. This doesn't mean John Greco has lost his job -- but it's obvious the coaches believe Erving's best spot to start is right guard. If Greco is the "sixth man" on the offensive line, the Browns are in much better shape than a year ago when Paul McQuistan had that job.

4. The Browns have shown some defensive fronts that look more like a 4-3 than their standard 3-4. Pettine said that's true. He mentioned that when Armonty Bryant (now an outside linebacker) is on the field, they could have a 4-3 look. Bryant was a defensive end earlier in his career. He showed potential as a pass rusher until suffering a knee injury early last season.

5. Ohio State Coach Urban Meyer and Glenville coach Ted Ginn and will be at an event called Walking The Talk. Also taking part will be former OSU quarterback Troy Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. It will be July 10 starting at 10:30 a.m. at Kalahari resort in Sandusky. The cost $55. It's to benefit the Ted Ginn foundation. I've admired the work done by Ginn for years. For more information, go to www.tedginnfoundation.org.

Cleveland Cavaliers have Terry Talkin' about the roster for next season -- Terry Pluto (photos)

0
0

The Cavaliers have lots of roster decisions with free agents, contract options and the salary cap. Oh, and the draft is coming.

CLEVELAND, Ohio --I need a break from the LeBron James/David Blatt debate. It's great stuff for talk shows, but think about last season.

When Blatt had a lopsided roster that lacked size and athleticism, the Cavs opened the season with a 19-20 record. When David Griffin reworked the roster and added Timofey Mozgov, Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith -- the Cavs began to win, and win big.

And suddenly, Blatt did not appear overmatched as a coach. The Cavs finished the season with a 33-9 record. After the trades, they were 33-3 when they had a healthy LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving.

So let's look at the roster, specifically those who require decisions about their future.

Restricted free agents: Tristan Thompson, Iman Shumpert and Matthew Dellavedova. The Cavs want all of them back.

Team option: The Cavs have a $4.9 million option on the 7-foot-1 Mozgov. They will pick it up for the 2015-16 season. The real question will be signing the Russian long term because he could be in for a huge raise if he reaches free agency in the summer of 2016.

Player option: Smith can play next season for the Cavs for $6.5 million, or he can decline the option and become an unrestricted free agent. Mike Miller has a $2.8 million option for 2015-16. I expect him to pick it up because he had such a poor year, it's hard to see him having much market value. He is a very close friend of James.

Big options: James and Love both have player options for next season. Both are expected to decline their option and become a free agent. The Cavs believe both will sign back with the Cavs. Both players have said they want to stay.

Unrestricted free agents: Shawn Marion plans to retire. James Jones likes being with the Cavs and probably would sign a veteran minimum contract to return. Jones makes sense as a veteran shooter at a modest price. Kendrick Perkins will be a free agent ... not sure if the Cavs will bring him back.

The big deal contract: Brendon Haywood has a $10 million non-guaranteed clause in his contract for 2015-16. He is expected to be used in a trade by the Cavs.

ABOUT TRISTAN THOMPSON

The 6-foot-10 Thompson made a huge statement in the playoffs. He moved into the starting lineup when Love was injured.

During the regular season, Thompson averaged 8.5 points and 8.0 rebounds in 27 minutes a game. He started only 15 times.

But in the playoffs when he was needed, Thompson was a force -- averaging 9.6 points and 10.8 rebounds.

Most revealing were the NBA Finals. When production from players such as Smith, Shumpert and Dellavedova decreased, Thompson's production soared. He averaged 10 points and 13 rebounds, shooting 50 percent against Golden State.

Thompson is only 24. He has not missed a game in the last three seasons. Represented by Rich Paul (also the agent for James), Thompson turned down a four-year, $52 million offer from the Cavs before the start of the season.

His agents know that 2016 will lead to a huge salary cap increase. Thompson is restricted, meaning the Cavs can match any offer that he receives.

Remember this NBA truth: BIG MEN GET PAID BIG!

I was wondering if the Cavs shouldn't offer him a maximum contract, something like $70 million for four years.

Why do that for a player with obvious limitations on offense?

Because what is a maximum contract now may not be close to a maximum contract in the summer of 2016. If those estimates of a salary cap increase of 30 percent are true (because of the new television contract), it may be wise to give him the maximum now.

ABOUT IMAN SHUMPERT

The Cavs plan to extend a $3 million qualifying offer to Shumpert, who is a restricted free agent.

He can receive an offer from another team, but the Cavs have an option to match it. Fewer restricted free agents ever end up leaving their teams.

Should the Cavs dig deep into their salary cap to pay Shumpert? It's a tricky question. The Cavs love his defense.

Shumpert is only 24, but he has durability issues. He had knee surgery and missed 37 games during the 2012-13 season.

He had a dislocated shoulder when the Cavs traded for him in January, and he missed 20 games this season. In the playoffs, he dealt with a groin pull and that cranky shoulder.

In the Finals, Shumpert played 35 minutes a game, but averaged only 6.5 points and shot 25 percent from the field. Like J.R. Smith, he was exposed as a role player when the Cavs were without Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love.

I like Shumpert, but would be very careful about a long-term commitment. He supposedly wanted close to $10 million annually to extend his contract with the Knicks. That was part of the reason he was traded to the Cavs.

During the regular season, the 6-foot-5 Shumpert averaged 7.2 points and shot 41 percent from the field with the Cavs. He played 24 minutes a game.

ABOUT MATTHEW DELLAVEDOVA

A Cleveland folk hero, Delly had a couple of huge playoff games for the Cavs. But overall, he averaged 7.2 points, shooting 35 percent in 25 minutes a game. It was 7.5 points and 28 percent shooting in the Finals.

Delly's defense and hustle mean a lot to a good team. The Cavs coaches and players love having him, and opponents sometimes hate his physical defense.

He's a guy you want, but at the right price. You don't make a big commitment to Delly. The guard is a restricted free agent.

ABOUT J.R. SMITH

With one word from him, Smith could be paid $6.5 million to play for the Cavaliers next season.

Or he could exercise his player option to become a free agent, and he's given indications that he plans to do just that.

Perhaps Smith will cash in with the Cavs ... or maybe not.

But I doubt many teams will line up to throw big money at the guard, who will be 30 on September 9.

In many ways, he is a specialist. While the 6-foot-6 Smith is athletic, he seldom drove to the rim or drew fouls. He attempted only 72 free throws in 70 games last season.

Smith helped because he shot 39 percent from 3-point range. He worked very hard on his defense.

In the Finals, Smith's weaknesses were exposed as Golden State's defense paid extra attention to him. He averaged 11.5 points, but shot only 31 percent from the field and 3-point range.

When Smith was part of the healthy Cavs with James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving, he had far more open shots. But when it was just James, Smith struggled. His emotions also were an issue in the postseason as he was suspended for two games because of an incident in Game 4 of the Boston series. He was only one flagrant foul away from being suspended for another playoff game.

I would not give him a long-term contract.

ABOUT JUSTIN ANDERSON

The NBA draft is coming Thursday, and the Cavs do have the No. 24 pick.

Virginia's Justin Anderson is projected to be available in the bottom part of the first round, and I really like the 6-foot-6, 228-pound wing man for the Cavaliers. He played at Virginia, averaging 12.2 points. Coach Tony Bennett has a very conservative, defensive style. That's part of the reason that Anderson's scoring average is not impressive.

Anderson shot 45 percent from 3-point range, a huge improvement from the 29 percent during the 2013-14 season. He's left-handed, an advantage because most defenders naturally shade the men they are guarding to the right.

Anderson can defend, because that's a must when you play for Bennett. With the Cavs, he would be the kind of player who can develop into someone who would fill a J.R. Smith role.

Hitting with runners on has been no simple task for the Cleveland Indians: Zack Meisel's musings

0
0

With men on any base, the Indians own the 28th-ranked OPS in baseball (.686). Only the Mariners (31-37) and the Phillies (23-46) rank worse. With runners in scoring position, the Indians own the 26th-ranked OPS in baseball (.675).

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Jim Thome and Carlos Baerga were the final two. Everyone else had filed into the elevator after Friday's evening of festivities.

"I'm not sure we can fit on here anymore," Baerga said, jokingly, to his former teammate.

A cast of characters from the Indians' 1995 squad occupied most of the space in the elevator. Dennis Martinez and Eric Plunk and Alvaro Espinoza and Julian Tavarez and Mike Hargrove and others stood, waiting for Baerga and Thome to make a decision. Finally, the men who combined for 441 home runs with the Indians squeezed onto the elevator.

Here are five thoughts on the 2015 version of the Indians.

1. Not so crisp with RISP: The Indians have the highest OPS (.751) and wRC+ (115) with the bases empty of any team in baseball. OPS measures on-base percentage plus slugging percentage. The wRC+ (weighted runs created plus) conveys that the Indians excel at creating run-scoring opportunities when no one is on base. The problem for the offense, however, has been when a batter approaches the plate with runners on. The Indians have been dreadful in such situations.

2. Other end of the spectrum: With men on any base, the Indians own the 28th-ranked OPS in baseball (.686). Only the Mariners (31-37) and the Phillies (23-46) rank worse. With runners in scoring position, the Indians own the 26th-ranked OPS in baseball (.675).

"They seem to always trend one way or the other," said Tribe manager Terry Francona. "When it starts to trend the other way, we'll all be a little happier. It seems like we had a lot of innings with first and second and nobody out and then you look up and that's the way the inning ended. I'd rather have the opportunities, but we don't seem to do much with them lately."

3. Deja vu: On Friday, the Indians squandered several prime scoring opportunities in their 4-1 loss to Tampa Bay. Francisco Lindor reached third base with no outs in the first inning, but he was stranded at the hot corner. Lindor and Michael Brantley opened the sixth inning with singles, but Rays pitchers struck out Carlos Santana, Ryan Raburn and Brandon Moss in succession.

"Obviously, it hasn't worked out well lately as far as runners in scoring position," said outfielder Brandon Moss, "but I mean, once you hit the ball, you can't control where it goes. Obviously, striking out stinks, but when a pitcher makes good pitches, you tip your cap and say, 'That sucked,' and you move on. We had some good at bats. We hit some balls hard, we just didn't do it at the right times."

4. Juice not worth the squeeze: With the bases loaded, the Indians have compiled a dreadful .157/.210/.196 slash line in 62 plate appearances. They have just two extra-base hits in such situations, both doubles. With two outs and the bases loaded, the Indians have tallied two hits in 28 at-bats (.071 average).

5. Workin' day and night: Moss believes the best approach is to simply make the opposing pitcher work harder than he desires and hope that things fall into place.

"Sometimes it happens, sometimes it doesn't," Moss said. "I really believe that. If you're getting guys on base all the time, some days you're going to score a lot and some games you just don't get it done. It stinks when you don't, but at the same time, it's a lot worse when you're going up there three-up, three-down every inning, and then you're facing the starter and then the setup and then the closer guy. That's a lot worse."

*****

Note: I'll be signing copies of my Indians book today at Barnes and Noble Woodmere from 12-2 p.m.

Viewing all 53367 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images