Rory McIlroy hasn't said if he will play in the 2015 Bridgestone Invitational since injuring his ankle, and Tiger Woods hasn't qualified, leaving youngsters Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler as the likely top draws.

AKRON, Ohio - Defending champion Rory McIlroy has not yet pulled out of the 2015 Bridgestone Invitational after injuring his ankle, and Tiger Woods has not yet qualified.

But the potential loss of both stars could be somewhat softened by the appearance of the world's hottest golfer, Jordan Spieth, especially if he is on the verge of winning the calendar grand slam a week after Bridgestone.

Spieth, 21, and Rickie Fowler, 26, as the top draws would put pro golf's burgeoning youth movement in a new light, even without the 26-year-old McIlroy.

The world No. 1-ranked McIlroy is not playing in the British Open this week, where he also is the defending champion, because he ruptured an ankle ligament playing soccer with friends in Ireland.

McIlroy announced the injury July 6 and did not give a timetable for his return. He has not commented on his plans to play in the Bridgestone Invitational Aug. 6-9 at Firestone Country Club in Akron, but given the apparent severity of the injury, it would appear unlikely he'll be ready.

"At this point, I know he's still entered and I don't know much more than that,'' tournament executive director Don Padgett III said Tuesday. "He hasn't officially withdrawn. He's waiting to see how his injury shakes out. He's still committed, but I want to wait and see.''

McIlroy came from behind to beat Sergio Garcia by two strokes to win the 2014 Bridgestone Invitational.

Woods has yet to qualify for a field that is to include about the top 50 players in the world competing for a $9.2 million purse. Woods has a long history of dominating at Firestone, and his most recent PGA Tour victory was the 2013 Bridgestone Invitational. But he withdrew during last year's Bridgestone Invitational with a back injury and hasn't done much since, other than post some of the worst rounds of his career. He enters the British Open ranked 241^st in the world.

Spieth has won the Masters and U.S. Open, putting him halfway to becoming the first player to win golf's modern grand slam. He is favored to win the British Open.

POLL: Will Jordan Spieth win golf's grand slam?

If he wins the British Open this week, the Spieth hype will soar at Firestone because the final leg of the grand slam is the PGA Championship the following week, Aug. 13-16, at Whistling Straights on the shores of Lake Michigan in Kohler, Wis.

Spieth is one of just six golfers to win the Masters and U.S. Open in the same year during the modern era, and the first since Tiger Woods in 2002. Ben Hogan is the only player to win the Masters, U.S. Open and British Open in the same year (1953), but he did not play in the PGA Championship because it overlapped with the British Open.

Spieth, who turns 22 on July 27, won his fourth PGA Tour event of the season last week at the John Deere Classic.

"Four PGA Tour wins in one year is an unbelievable feat, and when you have two majors among those four wins, you're really writing history,'' Padgett said. "What he did last week in winning the playoff at the John Deere Classic coming off his U.S. Open win, obviously all eyes will be on him at St. Andrews this week.

"We haven't seen this in quite a while, not since Tiger 15 years or so ago. He's definitely a special player, and to do that at 21 years old is phenomenal.''

Another big draw to Firestone could be Fowler, who followed up wins at the Wells Fargo and Players Championship in May by winning the Scottish Open last week. Fowler has two top-10 finishes in the Bridgestone, including a runner-up in 2011.

"We have a field a great players no matter what,'' Padgett said.

Every day photo editors at Associated Press offices around the world see hundreds of pictures slide across their desks or pop up on their computer screens. And every day they are entranced by a few of those images, so much so that they flag them and transmit them as one of the top photos of the day.  You can...

Every day photo editors at Associated Press offices around the world see hundreds of pictures slide across their desks or pop up on their computer screens. And every day they are entranced by a few of those images, so much so that they flag them and transmit them as one of the top photos of the day. 

You can view today's images in the photo gallery above. It's fun, informational and a good way to catch up on some news you may have missed. 

Enjoy the images, and thanks for looking! 

Tiger Woods claims (once again) that he's not too far away from winning. But it has been seven years since his last major victory -- the 2008 U.S. Open -- and in December he turns 40 -- Bud Shaw's Spinoffs.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Tiger Woods has two majors remaining before his 40^th birthday. His last major win came at the 2008 U.S. Open.

He could've broken a mirror shaving one morning seven years ago (instead of just playing Torrey Pines on a broken leg) and been no worse for wear in golf's biggest events.

Then chased a black cat under a ladder on Native American burial grounds.

On Friday the 13^th.

No further harm, no additional foul.

He'd have been exactly where he finds himself in 2015. And by that we mean not having found himself or his swing.

Sidetracked in far more traceable and meaningful ways - injuries, swing changes, scandal -- Woods arrives at the British Open still four short of Jack Nicklaus' 18 career majors.

Could he win a major in his 40s? Sure. But each year he goes without one adds elevation to his uphill climb.

Right now, he'll need more than a caddy. He'll need a Sherpa.

The only way that changes is if he somehow finds a way to win this weekend at St. Andrews where he has won twice before, or at the PGA in August. The way he's driving the golf ball, St. Andrews is his best chance.

And even then his chances of catching Nicklaus don't change significantly.

It's not enough to say Nicklaus won the Masters at age 46. Or that Phil Mickelson won the British at age 43.

"I know some of you guys think I'm buried and done, but I'm still right here in front of you," Woods told reporters at a news conference at the Old Course on Tuesday. "I love playing. I love competing, and I love playing these events."

No one doubts that. But Woods is 18 months removed from a Top Ten finish, two years from his last win and not far enough removed from shooting 85 at the Memorial and 80 at the U.S. Open.

He is right here in front of everybody this weekend, as he points out.

Sitting there as the 241^st ranked player in the world, as no one ever thought we'd be able to say.

* MLB commissioner Rob Manfred says average time for baseball games this season has decreased nine minutes over last season.

He did not take the occasion to specifically thank Indians' pitchers.

Or, even more apppriately, Indians' hitters.

* Ohio State's talent is turning heads. One belongs to NFL draft analyst Dane Brugler, who projects a motherlode of gems available in the 2016 draft.

After studying the NFL talent at @OhioStFootball, it's not hyperbole to say the 2016 draft class could be historic: http://t.co/RgVjArHI9C

-- Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) July 14, 2015

Based on the jump from college to the NFL and the number of high-round misses annually, neither is it hyperbole to suggest the 2016 class could also be a big disappointment.

* Former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb was arrested (for the second time) on DUI charges.

This one occurred in Arizona, a state with the toughest DUI laws in the country.

McNabb was stopped after rear-ending a car driven by the wife of a tribal police officer.

He then told the cops he had nothing to drink and blamed cough syrup for the accident and his unsteadiness.

Remember when McNabb lectured Robert Griffin III and criticized the Washington quarterback for refusing to come to McNabb for advice?

For some reason, Griffin III still hasn't called.

* In 2003, Rush Limbaugh resigned from a position at ESPN in part after suggesting the media overrated McNabb because they (somehow in concert?) wanted to see a black quarterback succeed.

Earlier this month, Limbaugh hinted that the media hasn't been too kind to RGIII - possibly because they suspect he's a Republican.

And not, I guess, because Griffin III has failed to improve and has (reportedly) alienated some teammates.

* You can't get this kind of quarterback analysis from Ron Jaworski, I'll give Limbaugh that much.

* Former Spurs sharpshooter Matt Bonner blamed a downturn in field goal percentage on getting a new iPhone 6 this past season.

 "Everybody is going to find this hilarious, but here's my theory on how I got it," Bonner told the Concord Monitor.

"When the new iPhone came out it was way bigger than the last one, and I think because I got that new phone, it was a strain to use it. You have to stretch further to hit the buttons, and I honestly think that's how I ended up developing it."

Bonner stressed that he hates to make excuses.

Apparently he just doesn't hate it enough.

* If LeBron James is truly having nightmares over the NBA Finals loss to the Golden State Warriors, as he claimed in an interview with Bleacher Report Radio, then he truly, finally, has reconnected with Cleveland sports fans.

* Me? My recurring nightmare is of Chris Berman doing play-by-play.

During a delicate surgery.

I'm the patient. And his nickname for my doctor is "Thumbs."

* Everyone seems to agree the new Home Run Derby format was an improvement.

If the same idea can improve the Slam Dunk competition, I'm all for it.

But I fear that's the only way to save it to actually jump a shark.

* Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban hasn't given any thought to DeAndre Jordan since the free agent rescinded on a verbal commitment to join Dallas.

Jordan returned to the Clippers after reneging on a four-year, $80 million deal with Cuban's Mavs.

Asked about Jordan by Yahoo's Marc Spears, Cuban said, "Who?"

Added Cuban, "There is no point now in people providing any energy or thought about something when you don't even remember their name. So it's just done. It's not a big deal anymore. It's done."

Clearly no big deal.

* Obviously, Cuban sounds ticked. That's understandable.

At least he isn't calling Jordan "The Player Who Left Before He Came."

That's too long of a title anyway.

And way too petty.

* After an informal online poll in San Diego claimed an overwhelming percentage of residents preferred keeping Comic-Con over the Chargers, the San Diego Union-Tribune conducted a formal poll in conjunction with 10News.

Comic-Con still won the SurveyUSA poll but only by four percent.

So, taking the margin of error into account, it could be viewed as basically a toss-up.

That should make the Chargers feel better?

David Blatt shows some humility by admitting he misjudged how hard it would be to coach in the NBA.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- I give David Blatt credit for honesty.

At a coaching event in conjunction with the Las Vegas Summer League, the Cavaliers coach told the Associated Press: "When I came to the NBA I was under the impression that this was going to be a breeze."

Even if most coaches actually believed that, few would admit it.

The fact that Blatt did is a sign of growth and humility -- both of which will help him next season.

"I had been coaching for 23 years at the highest level in Europe," said Blatt. "I coached in the national team environment, coached professional teams, coached Euroleague teams. I thought I knew basketball and I knew how to coach. Which, in my mind, I did."

He did and he didn't.

Understand that Blatt is a legendary coach in Europe. It was a huge upset when he took Maccabi Tel Aviv to the 2014 Euroleague title, defeating powerhouse Real Madrid.

As The Times of Israel wrote after the victory: "The Tel Aviv team had not been fancied even to make the final four, and only secured its final place with a last-second victory over the mighty CSKA Moscow.

"Maccabi point guard Yogev Ohayon, speaking on Israel Radio seconds after Sunday's victory was sealed, described the win as "unbelievable... I'm in complete shock."

"Other Maccabi players and coaches called it the greatest victory in the team's history, eclipsing even its first, legendary 1977 championship... The delighted surprise at the triumphant culmination of the season contrasted utterly with the team's shaky start in 2013-14, when it lost numerous domestic games, to the point where there were calls for the sacking of Boston-born coach David Blatt."

Blatt became a hero in Russia when he led that country's national team to a 2011 FIBA European title and to a bronze medal in the 2012 Olympics. Russia had not won any medals in major international competitions since the breakup of the Soviet Union -- until Blatt was hired.

Blatt figured he'd won in Israel, he'd won in Russia and he'd also won coaching in Italy and Turkey.

He knew the NBA was different, but it was still basketball, right?

That's why he was so sensitive about being called a "rookie coach." In his mind, he had far more head coaching experience than most head coaches in the NBA. He had been a head coach in various countries for 20 years.  

A DIFFERENT GAME

As Blatt admitted, "When I came over here it was a very, very different game with a whole new set of problems and a whole slew of things to deal with inside and outside of the game."

Nothing prepared him for the media scrutiny that he endured last season.

He would have been smarter to open the season with a more humble attitude when it came to the media.

Simply saying something such as, "I've been a coach for a long time, but I do know that the NBA is a different and new experience... and I have a lot to learn."

Blatt had never coached in a 48-minute game until the 2014 preseason. The NBA 3-point line is a bit longer than the arch in international competition. Coaches also have more timeouts to use in the NBA than they do in the leagues where Blatt coached.

Nothing can prepare anyone for coaching LeBron James -- unless the man had coached a mega star such as Michael Jordan.

I talked to Blatt for a few hours one morning not long after he was hired by the Cavs. This was before James had committed to coming the Cavs, and that possibility was not under discussion. Our interview took place before the free agent period.

I asked Blatt who were the best players that he'd coach.

His answer? Former Cavalier Anthony Parker and former Utah forward Andrei Kirilenko.

No future Hall of Famers there.

A DIFFERENT SETUP

In Europe, the top coaches also serve as general managers. They pick their rosters.

But with the Cavs, it's David Griffin who picks the players. Yes, he consults with his coaches, but it's the general manager's final decision.

Then there is James, who has significant influence on so many decisions impacting the Cavs. Let's face it, a coach/general manager should check with his superstar before making a major trade.

Griffin talked to Kyrie Irving and James before finalizing the deal for Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith. The general manager wanted to be sure that James and Irving could deal with the talented but moody Smith.

The NBA is a players' league.

Basketball elsewhere in the world is more like the college game, from the 40-minute clock to the coaches being king. With the Cavs, he had a player who was called "King James."

HE DID ADJUST

I realized that Blatt was in a tough spot. That's the case with most men who coach James.

The general narrative is that the team wins because of James and the other players. The team loses because the front office hasn't surrounded James with enough talent and/or the coaches did a poor job handling the players.

As I've written before, no coach has ever come straight from Europe to be a head coach in the NBA. Blatt never coached an American team until the Cavs. He was a stranger to his players, the fans and the media.

For that reason, he received little patience from the media when things went wrong. And sometimes, his patience with them was thin.

The Cavs were a major surprise to reach The Finals and lose to Golden State in six games as they dealt with major injuries to starters Kevin Love and Irving. A logical assessment would be that the Cavs overachieved in the postseason.

Yet, Blatt was considered almost an afterthought to the team's success, and doubts remain about him heading into this season.

Blatt still has a lot to learn. A major challenge will be how to manage the minutes of his key players in the regular season so that they are ready for the playoffs.

In the first months of last season, James and Irving were in the NBA's top five in minutes played. Blatt later gave them more rest.

By the end of the playoffs, Blatt had transformed his team without Love and Irving into a gritty, defensive unit. While he never sang Kumbya with James, they got along will enough to help the Cavs to a 14-6 record in the postseason. The two victories against Golden State were the first in Finals history for the Cavs.

No, it wasn't a breeze for Blatt. Sometimes, it felt like a tornado.

But in the end, he weathered the storm.

A schedule of public events for the 78th annual All-American Soap Box Derby, in Akron July 19-25.

AKRON, Ohio -- Young racers from around the country will arrive in Akron next week for the week-long All-American Soap Box Derby. 

The big event, the 78th Annual FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby, runs on Saturday, July 25, with heats beginning at 9 a.m. and finals just after 2 p.m.

Events for champions (the alias given to all race participants), begin with car inspections on Sunday. To read a complete schedule of events leading up to the, click here.

Here's what's open to the public throughout the race. 

Monday, July 20

8-10 a.m. -- Trial runs at Derby Downs

Noon -- Parade of Champions, featuring 400-plus participants from across the country, through downtown Akron's Main Street and ending at the opening ceremony at Lock 3 Park.

12:30-3:30 p.m. -- Champions will bring items to throw into the crowd at Lock 3 Park. There will be food, games and music.

6-9 p.m. -- Champions will have exclusive use of the University of Akron's Student Wellness & Recreation Center, where they will trade badges and play games.

Tuesday, July 21

8 a.m. -- Racing starts with the DQ Rally Challenge. Rally Masters heats start at 8 a.m.

Noon -- Rally Stock heats

2 p.m. -- Rally Super Stock heats

Wednesday, July 22

8 a.m. -- Subway Challenge Local Super Stock races

11 a.m. -- Subway Challenge Local Stock races

Thursday, July 23

8 a.m.-noon -- Ultimate Speed Xooter Race at the Whitney Wahl Pavilion

1:30-3 p.m. -- Parents will have their to shine underneath the checkered flag

4-5 p.m. -- Rally Challenge, Subway Challenge and International Challenge Finals

5-9 p.m. -- The Topside Show is an open house where spectators can view the cars, play games, race on mini tracks and eat lots of carnival food.

5-7 p.m. -- Open Hill: $20 gets you a ride and the "Thrill of the Hill"

Friday, July 24

8 a.m.-3 p.m. -- Super Kids Race 

9 a.m. -- Finalists weigh in and select wheels Topside at Derby Downs

Saturday, July 25

7-8 a.m. -- Champ car finalists check in at Derby Downs

8:30 a.m. -- Opening Ceremonies for the Final Races

9 a.m. -- Heats for the All-American Soap Box Derby

2 p.m. -- Mayor's Cup Race, followed by All-American Finals

7 p.m. -- Awards Ceremony at Akron Civic Theatre

The Browns defenses' have enjoyed good stretches the past four years, but haven't evolved into a complete unit yet.

BEREA, Ohio - One of the Browns' most dominating defensive performances in recent memory ended with familiar heartbreak last December at FirstEnergy Stadium.

It was the day they made Andrew Luck look like Brandon Weeden for 3-1/2 quarters. The day they forced four turnovers and scored two touchdowns against the NFL's third-best offense. The day they showcased the talents of a unit four years in the making.

One stop away from stunning the Colts and climbing to 8-5 in the standings, the Browns defense again demonstrated why it remains one of the league's biggest teases. Luck led the playoff-bound Colts on an 11-play, 90-yard touchdown drive to cap a 25-24 victory and deliver a gut punch to the Browns' playoff hopes.

In a devastated home locker room members of the defense refused to blame a Browns' offense that offered virtually nothing on the day.

"It's frustrating but this is a team game and we're all one," outside linebacker Paul Kruger said. "The defense could've won the game on the last drive, so it's highly disappointing."

The recap isn't meant to open old wounds, but serve as a reminder of how close the Browns' defense is to becoming very good while always leaving its fans wanting more. And after another offseason in which major assets were allocated to improving it, one question persists heading into training camp: If not now, when?

It's time for the Browns' defense to become the sum of its parts, to evolve into the complete unit that can play any way you like. There should be no excuses in 2015 - not with a second season in the same system, not with a burgeoning secondary, all the first-round draft picks and resources dedicated to stopping the run.

The Browns will struggle to reach .500 because of their lack of proven offense, but last season saw the Cardinals and Bills overcome similar problems to win 11 and nine games, respectively. It's what great defenses are capable of doing.

Granted, it's always easier for coaches and organizations to preach patience when a team has its franchise quarterback in place and it's losing games 37-34. Offense excites, it buys more time and goodwill than a club whose fan base must rely on a string of 17-13 games to stay competitive.

Coach Mike Pettine doesn't possess that luxury at the dawning of the Josh McCown era. If the Browns fail to win eight games this season - Vegas is betting the under - he needs to show owner Jimmy Haslam the organization finally has a complete defense, one on which it can establish an identity.

It's not out of the question, but when you hear coaches touting the prowess of journeymen linebacker Scott Solomon and Tank Carder it's far from certain. Especially, in a division with Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco.

In the past four seasons, the Browns twice finished in the top-10 in total defense and scoring defense. They haven't enjoyed such a statistical stretch since their 1999 rebirth. But blown leads, an inability to stop the run with consistency and the lack of a menacing pass rush keep the Browns out of conversations involving elite defenses.

The same unit so stout against the pass a year ago also was gashed by the likes of Lorenzo Taliafaro, Denard Robinson and Alfred Blue. The Browns addressed their deficiencies against the run by selecting massive nose tackle Danny Shelton with the No. 12 overall pick. They tabbed outside linebacker Nate Orchard in the second round and defensive lineman Xavier Cooper in the third. They also added experience in lineman Randy Starks.

It's hard to think of another franchise pouring so many high picks and free-agent dollars into their defense since 2012. Barkevious Mingo. Justin Gilbert. Paul Kruger. Donte Whitner. Karlos Dansby. It's a staggering investment for a franchise so offensively inept. (The Browns haven't finished better than 24th in scoring since 2008.)

Translation: it's put up or shut up time.

Browns' defensive backs led by Pro Bowlers Joe Haden, Tashaun Gipson and Whitner believe they can be a top-three secondary this season. Given an opportunity to pump the brakes on such talk, defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil didn't curb the enthusiasm.

"I'm glad they're confident," he said last month. "I'm glad they're making those statements. I'll say last year was last year. I'll say I think we have the potential to definitely be the best secondary in the NFL. We've got to prove it every year. The best secondaries in my opinion are usually playing in (postseason)."

Pettine and O'Neil make for a good tandem. They coach a solid scheme in a passing league and hold players accountable. A second year in their system should allow defenders to play faster and with more graduate-level detail. O'Neil is a former nose guard at Towson University who used to start a brawl at the beginning of spring football campaigns to let the offense know "who runs the show." His energy is infectious.

Attitude and a good secondary only carry a defense so far, however. The Mingos, Gilberts and Sheltons must deliver. The Hadens and Gipsons cannot regress.

It's time for the Pro Bowl parts, potential and gaudy numbers against the pass to morph into a complete package. It means finding ways to finish games regardless of offensive production and making opponents' second-string running backs resemble, well, second-string running backs.  

The expectations are high and the margin for error is low.

If not now, when?

All-Star second baseman talks about his man cave, collecting autographs, batting leadoff and how the Indians can score more runs in the second half. He also reveals a hidden talent. Watch video

CINCINNATI - Ten questions with All-Star second baseman Jason Kipnis, the Indians lone representative at the 86th All-Star Game at Great American Ball Park. Kipnis earned his selection to the American League All-Star team through the voting of his peers after hitting .323 (112-for-347) with 27 doubles, six triples, six homers and 37 RBI in 87 games.

1. Does the eight-year-old baseball fan come out in you when you're around the best players in the game?

A. "It does. I try not to admit it, but it does. I know I'll try to get some autographs for my own collection. I've got a man cave I've got to fill out and there are a lot of guys here that I want to get autographs from."

2. Who was the toughest pitcher you faced in the first half?

A. "There's a lefty in this room (Chris Sale). I think he's even pumped it up a notch this year. He battles on the mound. It's not just stuff; it's almost like he's pitching angry.

"If you get a hit, he's mad. He's going to make sure you don't get another hit after that.

"He's got a 98 mph fastball that starts from behind me (Kipnis bats left-handed) and a slider that starts from behind me and ends up being a ball away . . .It's not fun."

3. If you had to drive across country with a teammate, who would it be?

A. "It would have to be between two guys - Mike Aviles or Michael Brantley. I have a lot in common with those guys. We have good conversations.

"We debate. It's not an argument; it's a debate. A good healthy debate can make a road trip go by fast."

4. Do you have an All-Star talent other than baseball?

A. "Shower singer, I'm definitely an All-Star singer in the shower. You name it, I take requests in the shower. I do karaoke, it doesn't matter what you've got. I just sing whatever song is in my head that day. "

5. Who came to the All-Star game with you?

A. "My mom, my dad, two brothers, a sister, two aunts and an uncle and three or four of my friends. It's a good group. "

6. Do your brothers still get asked for more autographs than you?

A. "Yes, especially Todd. He's 6-3 and in shape. He gets asked for a lot more autographs than me."

7. How did getting moved into the leadoff spot at the end of April change the first half of the season for you?

A. "It redefined a good at-bat to me. In the two hole or being doing in the lineup, you say a good at-bat has to be a base hit. In the leadoff spot, it might be a 12-pitch a-bat to start the game. I might not get hit, but that's still a good at-bat and I'm all right with that.

"I found out there are more ways to have a positive affect on the team in the leadoff spot than there are in other spots in the order. I think that's had a role in how I've been hitting."

8. You say you're trying to ignore your home run total (six). Why is that?

A. "I've come to terms with what kind of player I am. I've done a good job of ignoring the home-run column this year. I think you can get distracted by certain stats that you want to get.

"I'm 5-10 1/2. I don't need to be swinging for 30 a year. That's not the player I am. I think the player I am, the player I've found, has an opposite field approach and hits the ball where it's pitched. As long as I don't fight that, and I accept what kind of player I am, that' when I'll reach my ceiling."

9. Do you think you can get production from the middle of the lineup in the second half?

A. "Absolutely. Carlos Santana, Brandon Moss and Yan Gomes are guys we're going to need heavily in the second half. That's the thump in the middle or our order.

"Look at teams like Houston, who live and die by the home run, but you see how much affect one swing can have on a game. Our one-swing guys are Santana, Moss and Gomes. When we aren't putting together long rallies or getting a bunch of hits, we might need that long ball. That one swing that keeps us in a game or put us ahead.

"We've got confidence in them and they have confidence in themselves. We've got the pitching staff to keep it low scoring so that one swing might be all that we need."

10. What's your favorite All-Star game souvenir?

A. "To me it's the All-Star jersey that gets signed by the rest of the team. That means a lot to me. I got the first one framed and I'll try to put this one right next to it."

One Ohio State parent was upset with Barrett staying home while Braxton Miller and Cardale Jones went to L.A. So Barrett responded to her.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- In case you were worried, J.T Barrett isn't worried about missing the ESPYs. 

Two Ohio State quarterbacks - Braxton Miller and Cardale Jones - flew to Los Angeles on Tuesday, along with teammates Ezekiel Elliott and Joshua Perry, to represent Ohio State at the ESPYs on Wednesday, getting the chance to hobknob with the sports elite.

Annie Apple, the mother of OSU cornerback Eli Apple, wasn't happy with the idea that two OSU quarterbacks made the trip to see if the Buckeyes would win the award for the best team of 2014 while the third, Barrett, stayed home.

* Why is Braxton Miller going to the ESPYs?

And she made that clear on Twitter, with more than 10 posts Monday and Tuesday. One of them was retweeting my story about Miller's ESPYs attendance, which referenced her first tweets about the issue.

Lot of revisionist history happening here. Right is right & wrong is wrong! No spin: JT not being invited is wrong https://t.co/g0GUiBNaNE

-- Annie Apple (@SurvivinAmerica) July 14, 2015

So Barrett made it clear to her that things were OK on his end.

Lol Mrs. Apple, let's just relax, there's no need to be upset I'm not, thank you though, just know I'm working https://t.co/PzkMzu3Hgl

-- Jt Barrett (@JT_theQB4th) July 14, 2015

@JT_theQB4th You know I have zero chill when it comes to injustice. I know you're working. You're always working. I'll be good by Thursday.

-- Annie Apple (@SurvivinAmerica) July 14, 2015

Thank you https://t.co/VKPt2sYKAy

-- Jt Barrett (@JT_theQB4th) July 14, 2015

Apple's voice isn't one to be ignored. She helped lead the charge last year for the families of players to have some travel expenses covered for the College Football Playoffs. That started with her making points on Twitter.

Now was she making more points.

JT not going to the ESPYs to rep for best team nomination is like Destiny Child winning a Grammy and Beyonce not being invited to attend.

-- Annie Apple (@SurvivinAmerica) July 14, 2015

But Barrett made it clear he wasn't going to make it an issue. Two Ohio State quarterbacks could do their thing in L.A.

LA, here we come [?] #ESPYS

-- Cardale Jones (@CJ12_) July 14, 2015

Ooooooo https://t.co/KdNX84JJud

-- BRAXTON MILLER (@BraxtonMiller5) July 14, 2015

And Barrett will keep doing his thing in Columbus.

Commissioner Rob Manfred says MLB's All-Star voting system was proven to be equitable by the fans who used it.

CINCINNATI - A month and a half ago, Commissioner Rob Manfred was worried about the course of the MLB's All-Star voting. The Kansas City Royals, at that time, had eight players in the American League's starting lineup.

When the 86^th All-Star game began Tuesday night at Great American Ball Park, the Royals have four starters plus manager Ned Yost. After all, they did reach Game 7 of the World Series last year before losing to San Francisco.

"Fans have a way of fixing these things," said Manfred in a pre-All-Star Game meeting with members of the Baseball Writers Association of America on Tuesday. "I think you saw fans in places like Detroit where they have Miguel Cabrera and in Houston where they have Jose Altuve say, "Hey, they voted. They had their say, but our guy is better.'

"That sort of fan reaction is a real good thing for our game. It actually gives you confidence that fan voting is a good mechanism is for engagement, but that they have a way of correcting themselves if things get out of whack."

Manfred added that MLB will continue to monitor All-Star voting to make sure the system isn't being exploited.

The revitalized Home Run Derby encouraged Manfred on Monday night that was won by Reds third basemen Todd Frazier.

"The changes that were made in the home run derby, particularly the addition of a clock and the shortening of the periods from five minutes to four minutes because of weather concerns were great," said Manfred. "I think the addition of the clock made a big difference in the event.

"It's not just that it moves it along, but being on the clock forces the players to swing at everything. We dramatically increased the number of home runs that were hit last night in a dramatically shorter event. That's a great combination for a home run derby."

As to whether that would play a part in the 20-second pitch clock being introduced into the big leagues, Manfred said, "we remain positive that the 20-second clock could be useful in the game in the big leagues."

It is being used at Class AA and Class AAA, but MLB would have to reach an agreement with the players association to have it used in the big leagues.

MLB introduced pace of play rules at the start of this season to shorten games. Manfred said to date the average time of a game has been shortened by nine minutes.

"If that holds, it would be the biggest reduction since 1965," he said.

Regarding the reduction of the 162-game season, Manfred said that would have a serious economic impact on the game. That's impact in a negative way.

He said if the season was cut, it lead to the length of the postseason being increased.

Tony Clark, executive director of the players association, made it clear that one of the negotiating points after the current contract expires at the end of the 2016 season will be how ensure that players get more rest during the season. Clark also met with BBWAA members on Tuesday.

Manfred added that he would consider expansion. There are currently 30 teams in the big leagues.

"I'm bullish on this game," he said. "I think we have a growth business . . .broadly defined. I think a growth business, over a period of time, gets bigger.

"I'm open to the idea that there will be a point in time that expansion is possible."

Manfred says MLB has a list of cities that believe they can support a big league club.

"There are markets out there that are interested in baseball," said Manfred. "We have to examine their viability and see what we can do to improve their viability."

Montreal, former home of the Expos, is one of those cities.

Commissioner Rob Manfred is committed to meeting with Pete Rose, but has to study the the case that led to Rose being banned from baseball in 1989 before setting a date.

CINCINNATI - Like the Ohio River, the endless Pete Rose saga rolls on.

Rose was introduced before Tuesday night's All-Star game as one of the Cincinnati Reds' Franchise Four, representative of the best four players in the history of each major league franchise as determined by fans' voting. The crowd gave Rose, banned from baseball for gambling, a loud ovation as he joined Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan and Barry Larkin on the field.

New Commissioner Rob Manfred has said he'll review Rose's case, but in a meeting with members of the Baseball Writers Association of America on Tuesday morning, he said no firm date has been set.

Rose, 74, applied for reinstatement into baseball in March.

"There's really no change with the process in regard to Pete Rose," said Manfred. "The review of the original investigatory material is ongoing. I'm frankly amazed how much material there is to be reviewed.

"We're taking a fresh look at all that. I remain committed that Mr. Rose deserves an opportunity to tell me in whatever format he feels most comfortable in about what he knows about the issues. "

Manfred said he will have a face-to-face meeting with Rose, but is not ready for it.

"I will schedule that meeting at some point in time when I'm comfortable that I have a good grasp of all the factual material," said Manfred.

Rose, baseball's all-time hits leader with 4,256, agreed to a lifetime ban from baseball in 1989 for gambling on games as the Reds manager. He eventually did admit to gambling, but said he only did so as a manager. A recent investigation by ESPN's Outside The Lines said Rose also gambled on the Reds as a player-manager in 1986.

Tony Clark, executive director of the players association, met with BBWAA members after Manfred. He said the players association has not part in Rose's try for reinstatement.

He did say he was disheartened over the matter.

"I'm disheartened at how we got here," said Clark. "It has nothing to do with reinstatement. I'm just disheartened that the Hit King finds himself in a place where every time you say his name, it's tied to gambling and the situation that has dictated 25 or 26 years away from the game. It's just disappointing."

The American League had too much offense for the National League on Tuesday night and won the 86th All-Star game, 6-3. Watch video

CINCINNATI -- Mike Trout started it and the American League just kept rolling Tuesday night in the 86th All-Star game.

Trout, the first player to win consecutive All-Star Game MVP awards, hit Zack Greinke's fourth pitch of the game for a home run as the American League beat the National League, 6-3, at Great America Ballpark.

Greinke settled down after that as he struck out four in two innings, but the NL could never get any traction against the AL pitching staff. Greinke is the 17th pitcher to strikeout four batters in the All-Star game and the first since Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez struck out five in two innings in 1999 at Fenway Park.

Trout hit 26 homers in the first half for the Angels.

Former Tribe shortstop Jhonny Peralta, a NL starter with St. Louis, made it a 1-1 game as he blooped a single into right field against Houston left-hander Dallas Keuchel in the second inning, but after that it was a slow offensive night manager Bruce Bochy's team.

Kansas City had seven All-Stars on the AL roster and some felt that was overkill. Starting center fielder Lorenzo Cain, however, proved his worth in the fifth as the AL scored twice for a 3-1 lead against Clayton Kershaw. Prince Fielder drove in the first run with a pinch-hit single to left to score Trout from second.

Cain followed with a double past third to score Albert Pujols.

Kershaw, last year's NL Cy Young winner, continued to struggle on baseball's big stage. He went 0-2 in the NLDS last year and took the All-Star game loss on Tuesday.

The three-time Cy Young winner earned a spot on the NL All-Star team when Washington's Max Scherzer was unavailable because he pitched Sunday.

Pittsburgh center field Andrew McCutchen made it a 3-2 game with his leadoff homer in the sixth off Tampa Bay's Chris Archer. McCutchen hit 12 homers in the first half. 

The AL added two more runs in the seventh against Milwaukee's Francisco Rodriguez. Trout was once again the trigger man with a leadoff walk. Boston's Brock Holt pinch ran, stole second and scored on Manny Machado's double to the gap in right center.

Machado advanced to third on a grounder by Mark Teixeira and scored on Fielder's sacrifice fly to left.

Twins second baseman Brian Dozier, pinch-hitting for Tribe second baseman Jason Kipnis, made it 6-2 with two-out homer in the eighth off Pittsburgh's Mark Melancon.

The NL added a final run in the ninth when Ryan Braun tripled and Brandon Crawford delivered him with a sacrifice fly against Twins closer Glen Perkins.

What it means

The AL continues to close in on the NL when it comes to the All-Star game. Thanks to Tuesday's victory, it trails the senior circuit, 43-41 with two ties.

The AL has won 15 of the last 19 All-Star games. That does no include the 7-7 tie in 2002.

The victory means the AL claims home field advantage for the World Series for the third straight year.

Lead the way

Trout became just the sixth player to hit a leadoff homer in the All-Star game and the first since Bo Jackson's monster shot at Anaheim Stadium in 1989. Frankie Frisch, Lou Boudreau, Willie Mays ad Joe Morgan are the other players to do it.

Only Trout, Morgan, Mays and Indians Hall of Famer Boudeau did it to start the game.

Trout is just the fifth player to win multiple MVP awards since its inception in 1962. Mays, Cal Ripken, Gary Carter and Steve Garvey are the others.

Groomed by deGroom

Jacob deGrom, the NL Rookie of the Year last season, started the sixth and struck out the side in order. Kipnis was one of his victims as he swung and missed a fasrball.

deGrom opened the inning by striking out Stephen Vogt, then retired Kipnis and Jose Iglesias. It was Kipnis' only at-bat of the night as Dozier pinch-hit for him in the eighth.  

Clang

Toronto's third baseman Josh Donaldson made an error in the second inning. It was the first error by an AL player since the 2009 All-Star game. Josh Hamilton did the honors in that game.

Just to make sure Donaldson didn't feel bad, Baltimore reliever Zach Britton was charged with an error in the sixth inning.

Go Johnny go

Peralta's RBI in the second made him just the third St. Louis shortstop to ever drive in a run at the All-Star game. He joined Dick Groat, who had RBI in the 1953 and 1964 games and Edgar Renteria, who had an RBI in 2004.

What's next?

The All-Stars return to their respective teams to restart the second half of the season.

The Indians will resume play at Great American Ballpark on Friday, but without the pomp and circumstance of Tuesday's game. Trevor Bauer is scheduled to starr for the Indians.

 

Brian Kortovich of Brunswick spent two days on the set of "Trainwreck" playing basketball against LeBron James as star Bill Hader's body double.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- In the movie "Trainwreck," a game of basketball between Bill Hader's character and LeBron James playing LeBron James goes how you would expect it would. That is to say, James dunks on him, blocks his shots and runs over him like a freight train.

But, thanks to some Hollywood slight of hand, what you probably don't realize is that it isn't just Hader going up against James. In fact, it's also a body double, played by Brunswick native Brian Kortovich.

"When they told me, 'you're playing LeBron James one-on-one,' I couldn't believe it," Kortovich said about being cast in the movie, shot last year in New York City. "They were like, 'No seriously, you are.'

"Great!"

For movies like "Trainwreck," body doubles are hired to stand in for the actors during rehearsals, prevent injuries and make the game action look more authentic. James had his own double, though he obviously didn't need one when it came time to actually film the basketball scenes.

Hader did.

So, Kortovich, who played at Holy Name and Brunswick high schools and then professionally overseas, spent two days last July in a wig and fake sideburns pretending to be Hader on the court.

"I was impressed, Bill's got some game on the court," Kortovich said. "He hit a couple shots, but his talent is definitely in comedy."

This is the third time Kortovich has appeared in a movie-- he played a member of the Miami Heat in 2010's "Just Right" and was Chris Evans' double in "What's Your Number" in 2011.

Kortovich says while playing a game of strip H-O-R-S-E opposite Anna Farris in that movie "wasn't bad," it was nothing compared to sharing the screen with the greatest basketball player in the world.

Kortovich has been on the court with LeBron before -- in high school and in pickup games over the summer several years ago -- but the scene was the first time they were matched up mano a mano.

"He was great," Kortovich said. "Very approachable, very relaxed. It was a week after the announcement [that LeBron was coming back] and he was very professional. He knew his lines and was on time. I was impressed."

LeBron was equally impressed with Kortovich. During a break in filming, Hader's body double sank 35 shots in a row. He saw LeBron standing nearby and wryly challenged him to a shooting contest, "You and me for a steak dinner."

"LeBron goes, 'Heck no, I just saw you sink 35 in a row, why would I do that?" Kortovich said. "That was a honor just to get a 'no' from the greatest player in the world."

While their scene together was brief -- it takes less than two minutes of screen time and you never actually see Kortovich's face -- it's something he'll always remember.

"I flopped too early," Kortovich recalled. "So, I had to do it over a few times to get it right.

"I can only imagine the intensity of taking a charge against him in the NBA Finals."

Kortovich finally saw "Trainwreck" at the premiere in Akron last Friday. What did he think of the finished product?

"You're going to lose five pounds laughing," he said. "It's that funny."

"Trainwreck," starring Amy Schumer and directed by Judd Apatow, opens nationwide on Friday.

Mickey Bey Jr. received a proclamation from Mayor Frank G. Jackson on Monday in recognition of his return to Cleveland for the first time since winning the IBF lightweight title. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Lightweight champion Mickey Bey (21-1-1, 10 KOs) returned to Cleveland for the first time since he won the IBF lightweight title in 2014 - and his trip was non-stop.

There was time with the family, a visit to the barbershop and a proclamation by Mayor Frank Jackson.

There was also time to make plans for Bey to get back into the ring. Bey, who is fighting under Floyd Mayweather's promotional company, gave up his title a few weeks ago because of a low offer to defend his title in China.

"I got a call from Floyd and told me to continue training hard and be ready," said Bey in a video interview with The Plain Dealer at Ty Barber's Barbershop in downtown Cleveland. "I had to take some time off because of surgery. I should return to the ring in early September."

Bey also talked about a fight here in Cleveland later in the year. Fighting at home brings on a totally different type of motivation.

"Fighting in Las Vegas is cool," said Bey about his current residence. "But I can't wait to fight at home."

Back in the ring: Super bantamweight Yuandale Evans (16-1, 12 KOs) returns to the ring on Saturday after years of mismanagement, contract disputes and promoter issues.

Evans, of Cleveland, has not fought since he lost to Javier Fortuna in 2012. He will fight DeWayne Wisdom in Dearborn, Mich.

Evans now works with matchmaker Eric Bottjer, who also does work with Roc Nation.

"Under new management I'll be more active," Evans said. "I've been in the gym working out and sparring over these past few years, but now I get to go in the ring and fight. I'm excited about Saturday. I'll have the excitement as if it's more first fight."

Premier Boxing: Junior featherweight champion Carl Frampton (20-0, 14 KOs) will face Alejandro Gonzalez (25-1-2, 15 KOs) 4 p.m. EST Saturday on CBS and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (48-2-1, 32 KOs) vs. Marcos Reyes (33-2, 24 KOs) in a super middleweight bout on Showtime.

Retirement: Carl Froch retired from boxing this week after a career as a four-time world super-middleweight champ and 33 wins out of 35 fights. Froch, 38, last fought in May 2014 when he knocked out George Groves. Froch says the lack of motivation inspired his retirement.

Return to the ring: "Sugar" Shane Mosely, 43, returns to the ring against Ricardo Mayorga on Aug. 29. Mosely has not fought since 2013. He had a draw and four losses in his last six fights. Mosley knocked out Mayorga in 2008.

Inside the ring: Cleveland's Willie Nelson jumped back into the "elite" boxing discussion last week with his victory over junior middleweight prospect Tony Harrison. After the fight, Nelson (24-2-1, 14 KOs) said he wants one of the belts. Any of them will do," Nelson said on ESPN after the fight. "I want to save the best one for last, Demetrius Andrade ... I want 'K9' [Cornelius Bundrage], [Erislandy] Lara, whoever have a title. That's who I want. Since everyone is jumping on the Floyd Mayweather bandwagon, give me him too."

Add Keith Thurman to the list of potential opponents for Mayweather next month. "Floyd wants me to fight a young man, somebody that's my age, because he doesn't want me to beat up on the elderly. TBE is 'To Be Extinct.' Let's wave goodbye to the old man," said Thurman to reporters after his victory over Luis Collazo ... 1976 Olympic gold-medalist Howard Davis Jr. has late-stage lung cancer. He has been given less than a year to live . . . Mayweather began training for his "final" fight scheduled for September 12 ... Laila Ali was  inducted into the International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame.

Were these real Ohio State fans, or do the shorts on one of the fans indicate something else?

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Two Ohio State fans in the hotel lobby at SEC Media Days drew a lot of attention on Wednesday.

The two Ohio state fans screaming "here come the bridesmaids" as Bama entered #SECMD15 pic.twitter.com/CbE8pEvrbu

-- Derek Ponamsky (@DerekPonamsky) July 15, 2015

Two Ohio State fans TROLLING on Alabama day here in Hoover #BargerMediaDays pic.twitter.com/JoVyzUgbSG

-- Will West (@WillWestWNML) July 15, 2015

Ohio State fans in the lobby at SEC Media Days on "Alabama Day" pic.twitter.com/gUoNbnBq6V

-- Barrett Sallee (@BarrettSallee) July 15, 2015

Troll Tide. Ohio State fans on Nick Saban day at #SECMD15 pic.twitter.com/L2QKXxEhRM

-- Jon Solomon (@JonSolomonCBS) July 15, 2015

That is, if they were Ohio State fans.

@ChaseGoodbread Yep, one guy has Auburn shorts.

-- Jon Solomon (@JonSolomonCBS) July 15, 2015

In this ESPN.com story, reporter Greg Ostendorf talked to the fans and identified Jeff Moorer and James Rivers as Ohio State backers.

"Nick Saban -- they say to be the man, you've got to beat the man. Well, we beat the man. Urban Meyer beat the man. Urban Meyer beat the legend, the myth," Moorer told ESPN.com.

Still, the Auburn shorts? Either way, Ohio State's championship, which included that semifinal win over Alabama, has done one of two things, maybe both.

Emboldened loyal OSU fans everywhere, even in Alabama.

Or turned rooting for Ohio State into one of the best ways to get under Alabama's skin.

Hill inspired people with her fight against brain cancer and raised over $1.5 million for cancer research before she died April 10. Her life will be celebrated in a special presentation at the ESPYs on Wednesday night. The former Division III women's basketball player just wanted to play one game in college.

LOS ANGELES -- Lauren Hill will be honored at the ESPY Awards.

Hill inspired people with her fight against brain cancer and raised over $1.5 million for cancer research before she died April 10. Her life will be celebrated in a special presentation at the ESPYs on Wednesday night. The former Division III women's basketball player just wanted to play one game in college.

The NCAA agreed to let Hill's team, Mount St. Joseph, move up its opening game against Hiram College by two weeks because her condition was deteriorating. Xavier University offered its 10,000-seat arena so more people could attend. Tickets sold out in less than an hour.

She ended up playing in four games and made five layups. LeBron James sent her gifts and tweeted how much of an inspiration she was.

Members of Hill's family will be in attendance for the awards ceremony. There was some backlash when ESPN decided to honor Caitlyn Jenner with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, with many thinking Hill was more deserving.

Hill's mother told USA Today that she wanted to make it clear to Jenner that her family had nothing to do with the criticism.

"I don't think (Lauren) would have had a strong opinion on (the award) either way, to be honest," Lisa Hill said. "She was pretty down-to-earth. She respected (people from) all walks of life and people who were different. She would have never been judgmental or harsh or anything like that. That's just not who she was."

The Cleveland Indians entered the second half of the season in wild card contention but needing so many things to change.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Talking to myself about the Indians as they prepare to start the second half of the season:

Question: Why can't you just write a normal story about the Indians rather than mumbling?

Answer: Because they do have me talking to myself. In fact, it's more like muttering. And that's probably true for many of their fans.

Q: They are only 5 1/2 games out of a wild card spot, right?

A: That's true. And there are six teams in front of them. Their record is a disappointing 42-46. This is not a team that should end up with a 77-85 record, and that's how the season projects. I never bought into the Sports Illustrated hype of the Tribe winning the World Series, but a losing record? I keep looking at how Minnesota is 49-40 and Houston is 49-42. I expected something like that from the Indians this year.

Q: So you are done with them?

A: Not at all. Not with their starting pitching. Not with Cody Allen as one of the best closers in baseball. Not with Terry Francona as manager, because his Tribe teams tend to play better in the second half.

Q: But were they this bad at the All-Star break?

A: In 2014, the Tribe was 47-47 at the All-Star break, 38-30 after. They finished with an 85-77 record. In 2013, they were 51-44 at the All-Star break and 41-26 after to finish at 92-70 and make the playoffs. So this season's 42-46 start is his worst in three years.

Q: Are you blaming Francona?

A: I can second guess some things, but he's a big-time manager with the track record to prove it. I hear the frustration in his voice, even as he is reluctant to criticize his players. He knows this is a better team.

Q: What does the front office think?

A: I talked to Chris Antonetti. The general manager also is frustrated. He talked about how "it comes down to us being more consistent, winning more games. We have had a few good streaks, but can't sustain it for a few weeks." Antonetti knows the Tribe ranks 12th in runs scored out of 15 American League teams. He is looking at ways to improve the offense, but he's not about to trade one of the starting pitchers (unless it's a shocking, monster, franchise-changing deal) to make that happen. The rotation is what can help the Indians climb back into contention.

Q: Do you really believe that?

A: With Cody Anderson as the fifth starter, the Tribe rotation has 32-27 record and a 3.50 ERA. That's the third lowest ERA among A.L. starting rotations. Fifth starters before Anderson had allowed 59 earned runs in 59 innings -- covering 13 starts. So Anderson (2-1, 0.89 ERA) has made a major impact. Other No. 5 starters were 3-8 with a 9.00 ERA.

Q: Why you drinking the Kool-Aid on the Tribe?

A: These guys can pitch. And they should pitch better in the second half, unless one of the starters has an injury. Strong starting pitching and a dominant closer (Allen is 19-of-20 in saves) gives you a chance to win most games.

Q: What happened to Corey Kluber?

A: Nothing, other than his sanity is being tested. He keeps his emotions under control, but what he's endured as a pitcher this season is outrageous. He is 4-10 with a 3.38 ERA. At the All-Star break a year ago, he was 9-6 with a 3.01 ERA. He's basically the same pitcher. Only the Indians never score for him.

Q: Never?

A: Close to never. He lost to Oakland, 2-0, on Sunday. He also opened the season with a 2-0 loss at Houston. Isn't this fun? He receives 2.3 runs of support, the lowest of any big league starter. If the Indians had just given him average run support, he'd probably be something like 10-4 and they would be in contention.

Q: A year ago, the Tribe had terrible defense. How about now?

A: Early in the season, defense was part of the problem. About a month ago, Antonetti promoted third baseman Giovanny Urshela and shortstop Francisco Lindor to take over the left side of the infield. Baseball Prospectus wrote that since Lindor arrived, the Indians have the best defensive infield efficiency in the A.L. Antonetti didn't want to deal with the rankings, but praised the two rookies for "stabilizing the infield ... and their enthusiasm has meant a lot. It's been fun to watch them play. They have brought a real spark."

Q: Are you worried about Urshela and Lindor?

A: We'll see if they hit. Urshela is batting .253, Lindor is at .223. Age is a factor. Lindor is 21. Urshela is 23. The pitchers will work them over. Neither has a full year of Class AAA experience. Anderson started only three games in Class AAA. The Tribe put them in the express lane to the Majors to try and revive the season. The farm system is helping.

Q: So what's the problem?

A: A few numbers jump out. They are 19-26 at home, second worst home record in the A.L. A year ago, they were 48-33 at home. They are 14-22 in the Central Division. They have no chance of a wild card spot unless they play at least .500 ball in their division. So that's the big picture: Start winning at home, and win games in the division.

Q: Why do you refuse to say that these guys just can't hit?

A: I was getting to that. They are 12th in runs scored. Offense is down all over baseball. The average player in the American League is hitting .253. But the Tribe offense is wasting so much good pitching.

Q: Are you ever going to name names?

A: Let's excuse some players from the discussion. Jason Kipnis (.323) is an All-Star. He also has been playing an above average second base. Ryan Raburn and David Murphy have been productive. Who would have imagined that? They have combined to bat .308. Lindor and Urshela just arrived. Nick Swisher is still hurt, so not much to say about him other than this -- who knows if the Indians will ever receive any real help from Swisher? He has two bad knees.

Q: I asked who is NOT doing the job?

A: Last week, I wrote about how Carlos Santana symbolizes the annoying aspects of the Indians this season. He's batting .221 (.736 OPS) with 10 homers and 40 RBI. He actually was 8-of-19 in the last week before the All-Star break. Is he finally getting hot? Santana drives me nuts because he's batting only .193 with runners in scoring position. He so slump prone. His defense at first base is worse than a year ago. How about this? He has no homers and seven RBI in 102 at bats from the right side of the plate.

Q: Who else?

A: Yan Gomes has only three walks compared to 44 strikeouts this season. He is batting .218 with 3 HR and 10 RBI. He missed six weeks early in the season with a knee injury. He is supposed to be healthy. But at bat, he looks nothing like the Yan Gomes who batted .278 (.785 OPS) with 21 HR and 74 RBI last season. Gomes is pressing. He is 3-of-31 with runners in scoring position.

Q: There has to be more than two holes in the lineup?

A: Michael Bourn is hitting .222. He batted .301 in May and showed some life. Since then, it's .174. I don't know how the Indians can keep playing him. Francona started using him only against right-handed pitchers, but it doesn't help. He's not hitting much off anyone, period. His defense has been just average in center.

Q: Should they play Michael Brantley in center?

A: A year ago, that was a good option. This season, Brantley has been battling a bad back. He's played with it, but his mobility is not close to his usual standards in the outfield. Brantley has found a way to bat .292 (.784 OPS) with 5 HR and 46 RBI. He is still Mr. Clutch (.358 with runners in scoring position). But since June 1, he's batting .278 with only 1 HR and 16 RBI and 7 doubles in 136 at bats. He's productive, but the back has hurt his power.

Q: If not Brantley and Bourn, who should play center?

A: The Indians are talking over several possibilities. Tyler Holt is batting .290 at Class AAA Columbus. He has little power, but does a decent job in center and when facing left-handed pitchers. James Ramsey (acquired in the Justin Masterson deal) is hitting only .239 (.706 OPS). He has some power (9 HR), but doesn't seem ready.

Q: What about Tyler Naquin?

A: Like Ramsey, he's batting exactly .239 at Columbus. The team's 2012 first round pick, Naquin had a great start for the year at Class AA Akron (.348, .887 OPS). Class AAA has been a challenge for Naquin. Ramsey, Naquin and Holt can all play center. But none have played well enough to really make the Indians promote them.

Q: Wasn't Jesus Augilar supposed to be a power hitting prospect?

A: He's batting .257 (.712 OPS) with 11 HR and 58 RBI at Columbus. It's .225 in the last 10 games. He's down from a year ago, when he was .314 hitter with 19 HR and 77 RBI for the Clippers.

Q: Are you still going to defend Brandon Moss?

A: I have been doing that for months. He does lead the team with 12 HR and 46 RBI. That is significant. He's hitting only .220 (.723 OPS) and strikes out nearly once in every three at bats. But that's not what bothers me the most.

Q: It's not?

A: A lefty hitter, Moss is batting only .190 (.662 OPS) vs. right-handers. He actually is better against lefties (.274, .831 OPS). He's hitting .185 with runners in scoring position. So the Indians have three key hitters -- Santana, Gomes and Moss -- batting under .195 with runners in scoring position. Moss also is hitting only .193 at home with 2 HR! He has 12 homers and a .245 average away from Progressive Field.

Q: Moss is streaky, right?

A: That's true. But since June 1, he's batting .196 with 6 HR and 18 RBI. He ended the break 0-of-15 with 10 strikeouts. It's been hard to watch lately.

Q: So there's no hope?

A: I doubt the Indians will pay the price in terms of big time prospects and/or starting pitchers to rent a bat for a year or two. I also wouldn't do that. Instead, there is a group of under-achieving hitters -- Santana, Moss, Gomes, Bourn and Swisher -- and they need at least two of them to deliver. Three would make the Tribe contenders in the second half. The three best candidates are Santana, Moss and Gomes. That's the only way that I see things changing for the Tribe.

If they choose to add a player, they would prefer a bat signed past this season. The question, of course, with any potential acquisition is what the Indians would have to part with, prospects-wise.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians might stand pat at the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. They might sell off a few spare parts. They might wait until August and attempt to make a waiver deal.

If they choose to add a player, they would prefer a bat signed past this season. The question, of course, with any potential acquisition is what the Indians would have to part with, prospects-wise. Also, any player earning a considerable salary will likely be off-limits, barring a change in organizational philosophy. Should Mike Aviles, Ryan Raburn and David Murphy become free agents -- the latter two have team options for next season -- the team could have a bit of wiggle room to afford one of these four players in a trade in the coming weeks.

Carlos Gomez, CF, Brewers

Age: 29

Contract: $8 million this year, $9 million next year

Numbers: .273/.322/.450 (.772 OPS), eight home runs, 41 RBIs, seven stolen bases, 1.7 WAR; posted .284/.347/.491 slash line (.838 OPS) and totaled 47 home runs, 146 RBIs, 74 stolen bases, 13.2 WAR the last two years

Details: All-Star in 2013 and '14, Gold Glove Award in '13; his defensive numbers have dipped in each of the last two years

The fit: Gomez could take over in center for Michael Bourn, who has been abysmal at the plate (.562 OPS)

Adam Lind, 1B, Brewers

Age: 32 on Friday

Contract: $7.5 million this year, team option for $8 million next year or $500,000 buyout

Numbers: .292/.375/.512 (.887 OPS), 15 home runs, 52 RBIs, 2.2 WAR; owns a career .275/.331/.470 slash line

Details: Won the Silver Slugger award in 2009 with Toronto. Then, he posted three average seasons before reviving his career in 2013; career .213/.260/.330 hitter against lefties and .294/.353/.514 hitter against righties

The fit: Acquiring Lind would slice into the playing time of either Carlos Santana, Brandon Moss or the David Murphy/Ryan Raburn platoon, unless the team shifted Michael Brantley to center field full-time

Cameron Maybin, CF, Braves

Age: 28

Contract: $8 million this year, $9 million team option or $1 million buyout for next year

Numbers: .289/.356/.418 (.774 OPS), eight home runs, 44 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, 0.6 WAR

Details: Career OPS of .686; stole 40 bases in 2011 and 26 bases in '12; owns a .254/.365/.429 clip against lefties and a .300/.353/.415 clip against righties this season

The fit: He could take over for Bourn in center field, though his career numbers indicate he might not be a huge upgrade

Charlie Blackmon, OF, Rockies

Age: 29

Contract: Will become arbitration eligible for the first time this winter; cannot become a free agent until after the 2018 season

Numbers: .291/.360/.463 (.823 OPS), 11 home runs, 40 RBIs, 23 stolen bases, 2.9 WAR; bats .321/.385/.465 at Coors Field and .253/.329/.460 on the road

Details: Has spent the majority of the season in center field; was an All-Star last season, as he finished the year with a .288/.335/.440 line, 19 home runs, 72 RBIs and 28 stolen bases; owns a .902 OPS against righties and a .601 OPS against lefties this season

The fit: He could play any outfield spot

The Indians are averaging a 4.21 rating, according to the report. Last season, the Indians drew a 6.17 local rating, which ranked fifth in the majors.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- TV ratings for the Cleveland Indians have dropped 30 percent since this time last year.

The change represents the third-largest decrease among the 29 major league teams based in the United States, according to a report by Sports Business Daily. Only the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago White Sox have experienced a steeper decline.

The Indians are averaging a 4.21 rating on SportsTime Ohio, according to the report. Last season, the Indians drew a 6.17 local rating, which ranked fifth in the majors.

The Kansas City Royals, who own the best record in the American League, also boast the best local TV rating, at 12.06. That number is more than double the Royals' rating from the same time last year. The St. Louis Cardinals, Detroit Tigers, Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles round out the top five.

The Indians, who stand at 42-46, rank 29th among the league's 30 teams in attendance. They have averaged 17,513 fans for home games at Progressive Field this season.

The biggest star in harness racing this year, Wiggle it Jiggleit, is nominated for Northfield Park's $400,000 Milstein Memorial on Aug. 14.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The biggest star in harness racing, Wiggle it Jiggleit, is the 4-5 morning line favorite for Saturday's $706,000 Meadowlands Pace at Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Northfield Park officials report there's a good chance the dynamic three-year-old pacer could compete here in the $400,000 Milstein Memorial on Aug. 14.

"Both Wiggle it Jiggleit and Wakakizashi Hanover are nominated for the Milstein Memorial," said director of racing Dave Bianconi on Wednesday. "Wiggle it Jiggleit would be the best horse to ever compete at Northfield Park. We think there's a good chance we'll get Wiggle it Jiggleit for our race, and perhaps both of them."

Bianconi knows a lot can happen in a month of racing between the Meadowlands Pace and the Milstein Memorial. He also knows Wiggle it Jiggleit is a crowd pleaser, and was rated tops in the country in harness racing this week.

Wiggle it Jiggleit's only loss came in the North America Cup at Toronto's Mohawk Racetrack in late June. He seemed to be his usual dominant self until 4-5 choice Wakizashi Hanover snuck past to nip him at the wire.

The Mr. Wiggles gelding has won 14 of 15 and $625,741 for owner George Teague Jr. and trainer Clyde Francis.

OSS at Northfield: The entertaining three-year-olds will compete in four $40,000 Ohio Sires Stakes divisions at Northfield Park on Friday night. The morning line favorites in the pair of trotting divisions are Neely's Messenger and I Know My Chip.

Neely's Messenger was the 2014 Ohio Horse of the Year and 2-Year-Old Trotter of the Year for trainer Marty Wollam, who is in the sulky on Friday. I Know My Chip is trained by Pennsylvanian Ronnie Burke and driven by Chris Page. Both sophomores have shown speed. Neely's Messenger has won in a sizzling 1:55.3 this season. I Know My Chip has posted a career best of 1:55.4.

Veteran trainer Brian Brown of Delaware, Ohio is sending Rock N Randall out as the 8-5 morning line pick in the first pacing division with Page driving. Indian Spirit, who has a 1:53 win for trainer Dan Ater, will have Kyle Ater in the sulky as the early 7-5 choice in the second division takes off from the rail slot.

Thistle's Lewis Memorial: Trainer Ivan Vazquez is saddling three of the eight starters in Saturday's $75,000 George Lewis Memorial at ThistleDown Racino. Juan Delgado will ride Wossamotta, Luis J. Martinez Jr. will handle Geppetto and Megan Fadlovich is aboard Jac's Fact in the 1 1/8-mile distance test. Completing the field are Circle Can Run, Startin Something, Uncle Virgil, Plain Ol' Willard and Deniro's Saint.

Jac's Fact is chasing his fifth win in eight starts this season. The four-year-old colt won the Michael Rowland Memorial here on May 16 and the Gendelman Memorial at Belterra Park in Cincinnati on June 14.

The race honors long-time turf writer and handicapper George Lewis, who died in 1978.

Haskell in spotlight: The $1 million Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, New Jersey is already moving into the horse racing spotlight. That's because thoroughbred rock star and Triple Crown winner American Pharoah is coming to town.

Reserve seats are already gone for the Aug. 2 race. ThistleDown Racino, Northfield Park and off-track betting parlor Cedar Downs in Sandusky will simulcast the Monmouth card.

Obama and Pharoah? Congressman Paul Tonko has asked President Barack Obama to host an official ceremony honoring American Pharaoh, trainer Bob Baffert, jockey Victor Espinoza and the Zayat Stables. The New York Democrat said a White House ceremony honoring the first Triple Crown winner since 1978 "would celebrate the lasting cultural and economic impact horse racing has had across the country."

Jockeys and trainers: There is a tight jockey race going on at ThistleDown Racino. Luis Antonio Gonzalez leads the way with 30 wins. Right behind are Ricardo Feliciano with 28 and Walter De La Cruz (27). Jeff Radosvich is the leading trainer, saddling 26 winners. Nabu Morales (23) is second, followed by Miguel Feliciano (17).

Merriman still leads: Aaron Merriman and Ronnie Wrenn Jr., regulars at Northfield Park, continue to be consistent winners in the race for the national dash championship. Merriman leads with 455 wins this year. Wrenn has 436 victories. Third-place Corey Callahan has faded a bit, with 386 winners.

County fair racing: The Ottawa County Fair in Oak Harbor, just west of Port Clinton, is hosting two days of harness racing. The trotters and pacers will be in action Monday and Tuesday with a 5:30 p.m. post time.

Finefeelinfriskie sparkled at last Sunday's Madison County Fair in London, Ohio for trainer Virgil Morgan Jr. and driver Chris Page. The 3-year-old filly pacer clocked the fastest mile of the day in 1:59. Leading the trotters was I'd Rather Walk, a 2:02 winner for trainer-driver John Ryan Melsheimer.

Every day photo editors at Associated Press offices around the world see hundreds of pictures slide across their desks or pop up on their computer screens. And every day they are entranced by a few of those images, so much so that they flag them and transmit them as one of the top photos of the day.  You can...

Every day photo editors at Associated Press offices around the world see hundreds of pictures slide across their desks or pop up on their computer screens. And every day they are entranced by a few of those images, so much so that they flag them and transmit them as one of the top photos of the day. 

You can view today's images in the photo gallery above. It's fun, informational and a good way to catch up on some news you may have missed. 

Enjoy the images, and thanks for looking!