Browns coach Mike Pettine said Terrelle Pryor doesn't necessarily have to play in Chicago Thursday night to make the team.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Mike Pettine isn't putting undue pressure on receiver Terrelle Pryor to make his debut in the preseason finale Thursday in Chicago.

"I don't want to say make or break,'' said Pettine. "I'm not going to deal with an absolute, saying he has to play, but we want to see him out there. I can't say today that he definitely will, but he should be. He was close to being able to go, and give it another week, we're hopeful he'll be out there and we'll be able to see him."

Pryor returned to practice on a limited basis last week with his strained hamstring, but wasn't ready to run fullspeed by Saturday night. Rather than risk it, the Browns opted to keep on the sidelines in streetclothes.

He'll survive the first cut from 90 to 75 on Tuesday, and hope he doesn't get a pink slip Saturday during the final trim to 53.

Cornerback Joe Haden believes other teams would give Pryor a chance at receiver if the Browns cut him, and a league source said there will be interest. Two premier receivers have been lost to torn ACLs this season in the Packers' Jordy Nelson and the Panthers' Kelvin Benjman. PIttsburgh's Martavis Barnett is suspended the first four games of the season for violating the substance abuse policy, pending an appeal.

The Browns could use a big body receiver like Pryor because rookie Vince Mayle is coming along slowly after thumb surgery and Dwayne Bowe has missed the most of camp with a hamstring injury.

* Dwayne Bowe's return

Bowe, who started against the Bucs, dropped a pass and appeared to be in the wrong spot on another throw from Josh McCown. He was targeted three times but didn't catch a pass.

"That's a part of two guys together in a new system,'' Pettine said. "They need to play together. (Bowe) didn't have very much practice time. That showed up in the game. This is a tough sport to just walk out there and play. Those guys have to be on the same page and understand where each other is going to be. Hopefully, now that Dwayne is back, we will get some more quality reps with him out there with Josh."

* Johnny Manziel's status

Pettine indicated that Manziel will continue to rest his sore elbow for awhile and not start throwing yet. He had previously been ruled out for Chicago.
"I just think there's a prescribed rest period,'' he said. "I'll get the medical update today, just see what their plan is for him, when to start throwing again. Given that the MRI was negative, we think rest will be the answer. To me, there's no need to think beyond that until we get to that point, and if it looks like it is more than that, then we'll address it appropriately.''

* Other starters will join Josh McCown on the bench

Pettine will try to get out of the Bears game healthy, and will rest other starters in addition to Josh McCown, which he announced in Tampa Saturday night.
"We'll make the decision on the other guys,'' Pettine said. "Some of it's going to depend on who's available, what we need and our position requirements to get through, but we will rest a number of guys on Thursday."

 * Caution flag

Pettine re-iterated that McCown can't run around and get hit as much as he did in Tampa, when he was hit hard on two of his three runs and drilled once on a sack.
"Much more good than bad (decisions) but just the questionable ones on some of the scrambles and some of the hits he took,'' said Pettine. "They jumped offside on the one and we had a free play, and he ended up taking an unnecessary hit. He's a competitive guy. I knew that it meant a little bit more to him being Tampa. He has to understand that it is a long season and we need him out there."

* Cam Erving will have to wait his turn

Pettine acknowledged that John Greco will likely start the season at right guard.
"I just think that starting five will be difficult to crack so I would say Greco is the leader,'' said Pettine. "It's not a slight against Cam at all. We're very encouraged with where he is and see him being a big part of what we do."

The U.S. flag flew at half-staff at Turner Field on Sunday, one day after a fan died following his fall from the upper deck into the lower-level stands during a game between the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees.

ATLANTA -- The U.S. flag flew at half-staff at Turner Field on Sunday, one day after a fan died following his fall from the upper deck into the lower-level stands during a game between the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees.

Mary Beth Hauptle, an investigator with the Fulton County Medical Examiner, identified the victim as Gregory K. Murrey, 60, of Alpharetta, Georgia. Murrey was pronounced dead at Grady Memorial Hospital.

The Braves said Sunday they are "deeply saddened" by Murrey's death.

"Greg was a valued and longtime season-ticket holder and an incredibly passionate Braves fan," the team said in a statement. "This tragic loss is felt throughout Braves Country, and the thoughts and prayers of the entire Braves organization continue to go out to his family and friends."

The Braves displayed a photo of Murrey on the videoboard and observed a moment of silence before Sunday's game.

The fall in the seventh inning immediately followed the introduction of Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez as a pinch hitter.

Yankees react to fan's death

Lt. Charles Hampton of the Atlanta Police Department homicide unit said foul play is not suspected at this point. He said no fans were hurt in the 200-level seats where the man fell from section 401, landing close to an area where players' wives and families sit.

Braves president John Schuerholz said grief counselors have been made available to players' friends and family members who witnessed the fall.

"It's just sad and we're all dealing with the sadness and the tragedy of it for the gentleman's family and anybody who happened to witness it," Schuerholz said. "It's difficult and that's what our focus is now."

A Braves security officer blocked an Associated Press reporter from entering section 401 on Sunday without a ticket.

Braves second baseman Jace Peterson said his girlfriend was close to the spot Murrey fell.

"It was within 10 feet from her," Peterson said. "So everybody whose families were here definitely experienced some part of it. It's not good for anyone to see something like that.

"A lot of player families were right there. I heard some pretty graphic stuff. It's not something I really want to get into. It's just unfortunate."

Yankees catcher Brian McCann's mother, who is a nurse, was one of the first to assist Murrey following his fall.

"She ran to him," said McCann, who began his career with the Braves. "She was in the mix trying to do everything she could."

This was the third fan death from a fall at Turner Field in eight seasons. In 2013, a fan's death was ruled a suicide; In 2008, police cited alcohol as a factor after a man died.

Major League Baseball said it had been in contact with the Braves and was monitoring the situation.

A sellout crowd of 49,243 was the largest of the season at Turner Field. The Braves are set to move into a new suburban stadium in 2017.

Schuerholz said now is not the time to say if the latest death at Turner Field would affect plans for the new stadium, including the height of the rails which line the bottom of each section of seats.

"We made our plans long before this event occurred," Schuerholz said. "Every facility that's getting built, there's a great deal of communication with architects and engineers and the league in terms of abiding by league standards for the industry. We certainly will do that."

Adam Staudacher and his girlfriend were returning to their seats near where Murrey fell.

Staudacher, 33, from Atlanta, said it appeared Murrey landed headfirst on a 3-foot-wide walkway between sections. He estimated 20 EMTs immediately surrounded the fan and began doing CPR, adding they treated him for "five to seven minutes" before taking him away.

Staudacher said he saw no movement from the fan.

"There were a ton of kids right there," he said. "It was a disturbing scene. Disturbing doesn't really go far enough."

MLB has said it is studying the issue of fan safety in the wake of several people being hurt by foul balls and flying bats this season. Some players have called for more protective netting around the field.

A fan died at Turner Field on Aug. 12, 2013, after falling 85 feet from a walkway on the fourth level of the stadium. Investigators from the Fulton County Medical Examiner's office later ruled that the death of Ronald Lee Homer Jr., 30, was a suicide.

In 2008, Justin Hayes, 25, died after falling down a stairwell in Atlanta during a game against the Mets. Police said alcohol contributed to his fall that caused head injuries.

Two fans died at major league games in 2011.

In Texas, a man fell about 20 feet to the ground beyond the outfield fence trying to catch a baseball tossed his way by Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton. Shannon Stone, 39 and a firefighter in Brownwood, Texas, was attending the Rangers game with his young son.

Earlier that year, a 27-year-old man died after falling about 20 feet and striking his head on concrete during a Colorado Rockies home game. Witnesses told police the man was trying to slide down a staircase railing at Coors Field and lost his balance.

Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona said fan safety is always a concern.

"I think the powers that be are constantly trying, one, give the fans the experience they want while also making it as safe as possible," Francona said. "People smarter than me spend a lot of time trying to make it the best it can be."

Cleveland's second-round pick, Sir'Dominic Pointer, will suit up for the Cleveland Charge.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Sir'Dominic Pointer, the Cleveland Cavaliers' 53^rd pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, will play for the Canton Charge of the NBA Development League, a league source informed Northeast Ohio Media Group.

Pointer, 23, will not attend training camp with the Cavaliers and instead will report to Canton once its camp opens up, the source said.

The Charge is the Cavaliers' D-League affiliate.

Cleveland is intrigued with Pointer's size and defensive tenacity, and they see him as a potential versatile lockdown defender. They are committed to investing in his development to becoming a well-rounded player.

This was viewed as the logical path to pursue with the Cavaliers' logjam on the perimeter for the 2015-16 season.

In five Summer League games with Cleveland in July, he averaged 5.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.0 steals in 18.4 minutes per game. As of now, offensively, he's predominantly an athletic slasher who needs to develop a consistent outside shot.

The upcoming season with the Charge will present Pointer with an opportunity to hone his game under the watch of the Cavaliers' front-office staff.

The former St. John's standout produced 13.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.0 steals during his senior campaign.

Free-agent guard Jared Cunningham and undrafted guard Quinn Cook will participate in Cavaliers training camp.

"You can't look too far ahead. If you look too far ahead, you start putting pressure on yourself and not playing good baseball. You've got to take one game for what it is -- good, bad or indifferent -- and the next day you have to do the same thing over and over. Then, once you get towards the end, then you can start looking a little bit. You can peek. Not look. Peek."

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians have climbed past the Tigers, Orioles and White Sox. They have nearly tracked down the Rays and the Angels.

Should the Tribe eke past Tampa Bay and Los Angeles, the Twins and Rangers would be the final hurdles standing in the Indians' way. Of course, that assumes Terry Francona's club will continue its recent surge, in which it has won five straight and eight of 10. It also assumes the other teams involved in a crowded race for a Wild Card spot won't take off in similar fashion.

That is a lot to assume. And with the calendar about to flip to September, it's a tall order.

"You can't look too far ahead," said left fielder Michael Brantley. "If you look too far ahead, you start putting pressure on yourself and not playing good baseball. You've got to take one game for what it is -- good, bad or indifferent -- and the next day you have to do the same thing over and over. Then, once you get towards the end, then you can start looking a little bit. You can peek. Not look. Peek."

The Indians sit five games behind the Rangers for the second Wild Card spot. The Yankees maintain a strong grip on the first Wild Card berth. Josh Tomlin, who tossed seven strong innings on Sunday, doesn't plan on checking the standings until the end of the regular season.

"No, no. Win tomorrow," Tomlin said. "Win tomorrow and look up Oct. 4 and see where we're at."

Baltimore has dropped 10 of its last 11. The Angels have lost eight of 10, including the three-game sweep over the weekend at Progressive Field.

Here is what Francona, Brantley, Tomlin and Abraham Almonte had to say after Cleveland toppled the Angels for the third straight day.

Francona, on what has changed for the Indians in recent weeks:

"After that day at the trade deadline when we met with all of those guys [Brantley, Yan Gomes, Jason Kipnis] and then the younger guys, it just seemed like from that point on, the energy's been really good and consistent. That was something we had been fighting for all year and we weren't getting it."

Brantley, on the atmosphere in the clubhouse and in the dugout:

"I just think we're playing team baseball. There's not any secret behind it. When you come into a locker room, and guys are working hard, getting better every day, asking questions and want to get better every day, it's fun. It's fun to teach younger guys. It's fun to watch them develop right in front of your eyes. Everybody in this locker room is a great teammate."

Francona, on Tomlin, who has posted a 3.08 ERA through four starts since joining the rotation:

"He's so easy to pull for. He's such a good teammate. He probably had his best breaking ball yet, since he's been here. Had a bunch of depth to it and his fastball was crisp. The one solo homer, we had just scored a bunch and he threw a first-pitch fastball, which is what you want to do. Other than that, he was really good. He started cramp up a little bit in his back leg so we were keeping an eye on him. That's why we got Zach [McAllister] up. Then he went out and had an eight-pitch inning. Actually looked like he was throwing better."

Tomlin, on the cramping:

"I didn't feel it the whole game, but in the sixth inning the hamstring area started cramping. It wasn't any pain or anything, it would just catch on me every now and then. It was just something I had to kind of work through and keep it stretched out so I could keep pitching."

Almonte, who broke the game open with a grand slam, on embracing his opportunity at playing every day:

"It feels great. I've been talking about this for a long time: I feel so comfortable here. I feel free. They let me play. They don't expect too much from me. They tell me to play hard, enjoy, having fun, and I like it."

Francona, on what Almonte has provided since joining the Indians:

"He never misses a cut-off man. He's paying attention to the game. It's exciting. He's done a heck of a job. He started out obviously real hot and went through kind of a lull but he's coming back again and has had some huge hits for us."

Tomlin, on working his way back after significant injuries in two of the last three years:

"It's tough any time you're away form the guys and the competition. It's tough, but it's something that you deal with over the course of a career and I've unfortunately dealt with it two of the last three years. It was pretty rough in that close of a span to deal with it, but hopefully that's in the past now and I can continue to go out there and try to compete."

Shapiro's tenure with the Indians is coming to an end. The Toronto Blue Jays are expected to announce on Monday that Shapiro will join their organization.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Mark Shapiro was sitting in his office in Tucson, Ariz., in 1992, the final year the Indians held spring training at Hi Corbett Field.

Shapiro, in his first spring camp with Cleveland, heard a thump. Then he heard another thump. And another thump.

Shapiro was 25 years old, a newly minted assistant in the Indians' baseball operations department. He walked out of his office to find Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Feller throwing a baseball against the cinder block that formed the outside of his office wall.

Nearly a quarter of a century and multiple promotions later, Shapiro's tenure with the Indians is coming to an end. 

The Toronto Blue Jays are expected to announce that Shapiro will replace Paul Beeston as president and CEO in their organization's front office. A source told cleveland.com that an official announcement would come on Monday.

Beeston is retiring at the end of the season.

Shapiro has served as president of the Indians for five years. Prior to taking on that role, he was the organization's general manager for nine years, assistant general manager and director of minor league operations.

Beeston had planned to retire last year, and Shapiro was one of several names linked to the opening. When asked if he had any dialogue with the Blue Jays about the position last winter, Shapiro told cleveland.com:

"I have 23 years here. Nothing is forever, but I've made a lot of decisions along the way to stay here because I appreciate the things that are here and I want to be here."

FoxSports.com reported earlier this month that Toronto had interviewed former Tigers president Dave Dombrowski for the vacancy, but Dombrowski instead landed in Boston's front office.

Shapiro learned under former Indians general manager John Hart before he succeeded his longtime boss as general manager after the 2001 campaign. Immediately, the Indians began a rebuilding phase. Shapiro passed the baton to Chris Antonetti following the 2010 season.

The Blue Jays, who will host the Indians for a three-game series beginning Monday night at Rogers Centre, stand atop the American League East division. General manager Alex Anthopoulos added star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and pitcher David Price to Toronto's roster prior to the non-waiver trade deadline. Anthopoulos' contract is reportedly set to expire at the end of the season.

Toronto presently operates a payroll exceeding $130 million. The Indians' payroll, at about $76 million, ranks 26th of the 30 teams in baseball.

When reports surfaced earlier this month that Shapiro could make for a leading candidate for Toronto's impending vacancy, the 48-year-old declined comment. He did, however, alert members of his staff ahead of time that such a report was bound to be leaked, according to Tribe manager Terry Francona. 

Francona's contract, which runs through 2018 and includes options for 2019 and 2020, also includes an out clause, should Antonetti or Shapiro no longer be involved in the organization's front office structure. Francona said he would not use the clause as leverage to obtain another job.

During Shapiro's tenure as GM and president, the Indians tallied four winning seasons (2005, '07, '13, '14). The club sits at 63-66, good for third place in the AL Central.

The RubberDucks face eight batters in the sixth inning before getting an out.

Flying Squirrels first baseman Ricky Oropesa hit two homers in a nine-run sixth inning, including a grand slam that effectively buried the RubberDucks in a 12-2 loss Sunday at Canal Park in Akron.

The RubberDucks led, 2-1, heading into the sixth when the wheels came off. Oropesa led off the inning with a solo homer off Akron starter Duke von Schamann, and two batters later outfielder Engel Beltre added a two-run shot. 

Reliever Jacob Lee replaced Schamann (1-2, 7.40 ERA) and fared no better. Lee allowed a single, a walk, a two-run triple, another walk, then hit a batter with a pitch before being replaced by Josh Martin.

By that time RubberDucks pitchers had faced eight batters and had no outs, but Martin managed to strike out designated hitter Hunter Cole.

However, Oropesa returned to the plate with the bases loaded and hit it over the center-field wall for his second home run of the inning. Oropesa finished 2-for-4 with five RBI.

Martin walked a batter before finally getting the last two outs.

The loss spoiled a solid night by RubberDucks second baseman Ronny Rodriguez, who went 3-for-4 with three doubles. 

The struggling RubberDucks (68-66) have lost three straight and 10 of their past 12 games. They are 7 1/2 games out of first and are in a tie for third place with Richmond in the Western Division of the Class AA Eastern League.

Browns coach Mike Pettine, when asked if Ray Rice would be under consideration if they need to add a back, didn't rule him out.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- With Browns running back Duke Johnson suffering a concussion Saturday night against the Bucs, coach Mike Pettine once again hasn't ruled out adding controversial running back Ray Rice to the roster.

During a conference call on Sunday, Pettine acknowledged that the Browns might have to add a back, and that they'll examine the list of free agents, which includes the former Ravens' Pro Bowler.

"We'll wait and see how long Duke is potentially out,'' said Pettine. "We'll have a whole series of meetings this afternoon. We'll start with the defense first and when we get to the offense, I'll bet the running back will likely be one of the first topics discussed.''

With running backs Shaun Draughn and Glenn Winston still ailing, the Browns might have no choice but to add to the pile. Draughn (thumb) saw some action on special teams in Tampa and Winston is still out after undergoing a recent knee scope.

"We'll see where the conversation takes us,'' said Pettine. "I think we need the medical report first, kind of see where Shaun is, make sure the other guys came out of it okay, get an update on Duke and weigh all of those factors. Getting Shaun back certainly helps.''

Asked specifically if Rice is an option, Pettine said, "If we do come to the decision that we need to add a back that is not here, we'll look at the list of backs that are available.''

The list right now is short, and Rice one of the best choices on it. But he poses a potential enormous distraction, considering that he was suspended two games last year for knocking his then fiance out cold in an elevator and dragging her out of it.

If the Browns can exercise some patience, some quality backs should become available in the first round of cuts from 90 to 75 on Tuesday and the final cuts to 53 on Saturday.

The problem is, they might find themselves shorthanded for the preseason finale against the Bears Thursday night, and they're trying to get out of the preseason healthy.

Plenty of starters will rest during that game, including quarterback Josh McCown. It's likely that members of the first team offensive line will also rest, which could put the starting backs in harm's way if the blocking is insufficient.

As it stands, Johnson won't play in Chicago, and Draughn is still wearing a cast on his left hand and probably won't be ready to carry the ball yet. Running back Luke Lundy is coming off a concussion and didn't play in Tampa. The Browns also have newcomers Jalen Parmele and Timothy Flanders who could help carry the load in practice and the final preseason game.

If the Browns just need an extra back to carry them through the Bears game, they're unlikely to sign Rice. But if they feel they need a longer-term replacement for Johnson, they might give it more thought.

Johnson, who missed the previous three weeks of camp with a strained hamstring, suffered the concussion on a second-quarter field goal drive when he jumped for a high pass from Josh McCown and was blasted by cornerback Mike Jenkins.

Johnson lost his mouthpiece and then walked gingerly to the sidelines, where the medical staff quickly determined that he needed a neurological exam and took away his helmet. Soon, he was on his way to the locker for more thorough tests, and was diagnosed with a concussion.

"He'll be in the league's concussion protocol so we'll know more as the week goes on,'' said Pettine.

Pettine acknowledged after the game that losing Johnson again was the "biggest downer of the night.'' The Browns think so much of their third-round pick out of Miami that they gave him the start in Tampa over Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West despite the fact that he had barely practiced all preseason.

"We've seen what he can do at practice and that's important,'' said Pettne. "That's why we were so positive, so optimistic about it. But football's about availability and he hasn't been available for much of the preseason. While we're hopeful about the potential, at the same time, it is discouraging to not have him out there.''

Two other available backs are Ahmad Bradshaw, 29, former of the Giants and Colts, and Pierre Thomas, 30, formerly of the Saints.

If the Browns do decide to explore Rice, they'd have the blessing of Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, who recently told ESPN he'd be fine with him if his football wanted him.

Rice also has some history with the coaching staff here. Pettine spent a year with him in Baltimore and running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery tutored him for six there, during which time he made the Pro Bowl three times and rushed for more than 1,000 yards four times.

Here are some other quick hitters from Mike Pettine's conference call Sunday:

* He said he's hopeful receiver Terrelle Pryor can play Thursday in Chicago. He said Pryor was close to playing in Tampa Bay. "We want to see him play. We're hopeful.'' He added that whether or not he plays in Chicago won't make or break Pryor.

* He repeated what he said after the 31-7 victory over Tampa Bay: that Josh McCown will not play in Chicago. Other starters will also rest.

* On McCown taking big hits: "He's got to understand it's a long season and we need him out there.''

* He said John Greco had the inside track to start at right guard. He added that it's not a slight on No. 19 overall pick Cam Erving.

Terrelle Pryor, Barkevious Mingo and Justin Gilbert all partipated in Monday's light practice; Veteran running back Fred Jackson will be on the list of free agents for the Browns to consider. Watch video

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns receiver Terrelle Pryor was back on the practice field Monday after sitting out Saturday night's 31-7 victory over the Bucs, and linebacker Barkevious Mingo participated in position drills for the first time since undergoing a knee scope Aug. 6.

It was just a light practice in shorts and no pads, but the sight of Pryor running routes is a sign that he might play in Thursday's preseason finale in Chicago. The return of Mingo means he's got a shot to play in the play in the opener Sept. 13 against the Jets in New York. Pettine said Pryor will try to play on a limited basis, and that Mingo is on pace to play in the opener.

The Browns also have a new running back to consider if they decide they need to add one because of Duke Johnson's concussion: 34-year-old Fred Jackson, who was cut today by the Bills.  Pettine said, however, that the club won't be adding a running back this week. When asked specifically about Jackson, he said he prefers to focus on the players that are here.

When asked Sunday about whether or not they'd consider former Ravens back Ray Rice,  Pettine said "if we do come to the decision that we need to add a back that is not here, we'll look at the list of backs that are available."

Pettine spent a year with Rice in Baltimore and a year with Jackson in Buffalo in 2013. When they were together in Buffalo, Jackson rushed for 890 yards on 206 carries for a 4.3-yard average. He also caught 47 passes for 387 yards and a TD.

Neither Johnson nor cornerback Pierre Desir, who both suffered concussions in Tampa, were outside at practice today. Pettine said he doesn't know the severity of Johnson's concussion.

As for Pryor, Pettine said Sunday that the Chicago game won't make or break his spot on the roster. They knew when they signed the former quarterback that he was a developmental project, and they didn't expect him to be a finished product as a receiver by the end of camp.

If he can show something in Chicago without aggravating the muscle, it will give the Browns a little data heading into the final cuts on Tuesday. If he can't go, they will have to make their decision based primarily on his upside potential. Other teams will give Pryor a shot at receiver if the Browns cut him, a league source said.

Several other players returned to the light practice Monday, but that doesn't necessarily mean they'll be ready to play Thursday night. They are: cornerbacks Justin Gilbert (hip flexor), Robert Nelson Jr. (hamstring), and K'Waun Williams (abdominal); safety Jordan Poyer (concussion); and defensive lineman Ishmaa'ily Kitchen.

Quarterback Johnny Manziel rested his sore right elbow, as expected, wearing a sleeve.

Departing team president Mark Shapiro stands strongly behind GM Chris Antonetti and says the Indians don't need to look outside the organization for help in baseball matters -- Bud Shaw's Sports Spin.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Chris Antonetti sat with Mark Shapiro's wife and children in the as the team-president-for-now announced his impending move to Toronto to serve the Blue Jays in the same capacity.

There is no plan to replace Shapiro here, but owner Paul Dolan allowed that if Antonetti feels he needs some help in baseball matters after Shapiro's departure he might well look around to fill the gap.

Unsolicited, Shapiro said, "Chris doesn't need any help."

Why, you ask? (And I know you do.) A reasonable question given a so-far sub-.500 season and a necessary unburdening of two contract anvils (Nick Swisher, Michael Bourn) that weighed heavily on the organization.

Shapiro came up through the farm system and graduated to the GM job. Why not bring in a president of baseball operations, new eyes to evaluate the Indians' "winning culture" and "mission statement?"

Those are Shapiro catch phrases. Disgruntled fans have targeted and trashed his words during lean seasons. The Tribe didn't make the playoffs nearly enough to silence the criticism, after all.

"I would go back to the process and leadership," Shapiro said in applauding Antonetti for maturing in his role and fine-tuning a thorough approach to combat the challenges that come with the market size and financial constraints.

Laugh at the language if you will. But every aspect of how the Indians do business is connected to the market and ownership challenge. You say it's an excuse. I say it's a pretty damn good one most years.

If you don't have a creative plan to make do with less - not just make do but rise above your means - the challenge only gets bigger, the odds of beating it worse.

I don't see the closed shop -- if that's the right term, baseball-wise -- as arrogance. It's more necessity than that. Even you prefer to call it a preference, it's one based on a need to embrace a certain way of doing business in a sport that makes it nearly impossible for some teams to outspend inevitable mistakes.

Shapiro says Antonetti would be open to an external voice if that voice is a fit. In fact, he offers proof.

"Tito has been that guy for us," Shapiro said.

Francona had a brief connection to the Indians, working for them after Philadelphia fired him as manager in 2000. He didn't come back to the Tribe directly from managing in the organization (Mike Hargrove, Charlie Manuel, Eric Wedge). He came empowered (unlike Manny Acta) after winning two World Series in Boston.

Certainly, he already felt enough of a connection to Antonetti and Shapiro to include an out clause in his contract that protected him against their departures.

Francona has already said that clause won't be an issue with Shapiro leaving. Dolan said Monday he never thought it would be.

"I didn't have any doubts about (Francona's) commitment," he said. "I was comfortable he would be comfortable (staying)."

All the same people were together, of course, when the Indians signed Bourn and Swisher. So there's that. Shapiro said the organization knew the risks.

"Most of you probably applauded those (signings)," he said.

Which is probably true and also beside the point. There's no media "process." The Indians are responsible for those two big swings and misses.

Shapiro allowed that they "stepped outside our character" on those big-money deals and that it was "probably not the wisest thing to do." Translation: don't expect to see that kind of expenditure again.

Feel better? Didn't think so. What the Indians did is get out over their skis in wanting to give their new manager weapons and wanting to excite the fan base. What was left of the enthusiasm over those signings disappeared during this season. Now, Shapiro, who was basically an advisor to Antonetti, is heading out the door in another month.

Left behind is a terrific pitching staff, a Top 5 manager, and some good players (Jason Kipnis, Michael Brantley, Yan Gomes) signed for years to come.

It's hardly a dismal picture unless you don't see a minority ownership partner signing up anytime soon to boost the payroll. But that's not a front office failing.

Shapiro was asked if he's leaving the organization better off than when he found it?

"Absolutely - 1992?" he said, laughing. "That's an easy one."

Nothing comes easy in northeast Ohio, as one two-time NBA champion once said in a "coming-home" essay. What some people won't ever acknowledge is that sustained success comes a lot harder in a sport with no salary cap.

That's the nature of Major League Baseball more than the nature of how the Indians conduct business.

Something has to give. The Indians have won five straight games and the Blue Jays have won eight of their last nine game.

TORONTO -- Here are the lineups for Monday night's game between the Indians and Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.

INDIANS

2B Jason Kipnis.

SS Francisco Lindor.

LF Michael Brantley.

1B Carlos Santana.

DH Ryan Raburn.

C Yan Gomes.

RF Jerry Sands.

CF Abraham Almonte.

3B Mike Aviles.

RHP Danny Salazar, 11-7, 3.30.

BLUE JAYS

LF Ben Revere.

3B Josh Donaldson.

RF Jose Bautista.

DH Edwin Encarnacion.

SS Troy Tulowitzki.

1B Chris Colabello.

C Russell Martinez.

CF Kevin Pillar.

2B Ryan Goins.

LHP David Price, 13-4, 2.42.

Meyer left open the possibility of changing quarterbacks during a game if one isn't playing well, or changing the depth chart during the week if one doesn't practice well. Watch video

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- There's no wrong decision as long as there is a decision. Seven days removed from the start of the defense of their national championship, Ohio State's coaches are claiming no quarterback choice has been made.

That's a bit of a surprise, if you believe it.

But here's the bigger surprise - talk that there won't be a choice.

That the answer as Ohio State's quarterback won't be J.T. Barrett or Cardale Jones, but both. 

Ohio State's depth chart will be released on Tuesday and while it shouldn't list five potential starters at quarterback, like Alabama did on Monday, it won't tell us anything. Urban Meyer reiterated again Monday that he'll announce the starter by sending someone onto the field after 8 p.m. in Blacksburg, Virginia on Labor Day.

But he said he wants to make the choice by Wednesday, when the Buckeyes will start their game prep in earnest.

Yet during the dodging and ducking Monday (we see the smiles behind your evasions, guys), the idea of a two-quarterback system kept popping up -- the system that both Jones and Barrett have said they don't favor.

"I don't think it would be best," Barrett said two weeks ago. "I think that would be kind of tough. It would be weird if we switched like every quarter."

It's the Buckeyes' choice to not give away their secret. But why bring in this scenario? Are they merely muddying the water with thoughts of a shared role? Or is Meyer being honest?

Because picking both is the only way he could go wrong. Tough choices are part of the job. Making one here would help the Buckeyes. And that may be what Meyer does. But for now ...

"There is a chance they'll both play," Meyer said as part of his first answer to the first question posed to him Monday.

Meyer all along has said the human element will be the most difficult part of this process, and how the guy who isn't starting handles the news is the most intriguing part of the story. But he's called this battle refreshing because of the genuine friendship between the competitors. So the outlook of the loser emerged as less of a concern. Refreshing means the choice isn't so hard.

If you make a choice.

"I don't think it's going to be hard, because they handle it," Meyer said. "I've had a couple conversations with them already. I think it's going to be matter of fact. If you're not going to play early, get ready, because I'd like to see both guys involved."

How? Playing both every game as part of a plan? Looking for a hot hand and sticking with it? Maybe the best way to explain Meyer's thinking on this is to give the exchange from Monday as I tried to gauge where he stands on this.

This isn't meant to bore you, and you can watch the video of my exchange with Meyer at the top of this post. But Meyer admitted he hasn't done this before. This isn't like playing both veteran Chris Leak and freshman change-of-pace Tim Tebow at Florida in 2006, because Meyer keeps insisting Jones and Barrett are similar players.

Here are his answers to my questions.

Q. Are you open to the idea of playing two quarterbacks more than you were a couple months ago?

"I'm not sure yet. We're still debating that."

Q. Is the only thing what gives this team the best chance to win or is there something in there of guys deserving a chance to play, earning a chance to play ... 

"No, at this point it's at that moment who can -- because they both won. I don't know J.T.'s record, but it's pretty good. Cardale, I believe, is 3-0. So who gives us at that moment a chance to win."

Q. If the skill sets are similar, right, what would it be about giving both a chance?

"Performance at practice, accuracy, leadership, toughness, all the things that you look for in the quarterback."

Q. Would that change within a game though?

"Sure, absolutely."

Q. A guy's not looking so sharp, let's put somebody else in?

"Absolutely, it could be weekly too. If he had a bad Tuesday practice and Tuesday's our first of normal, and third down is on Wednesday, and they have a bad Wednesday, absolutely. That's not uncommon. That is the same with the other positions as well. You have to show up every day and compete."

Q. Is there any part of that, doing that at quarterback that could be not a great thing for the team? Or do you think that would just push it?

"Oh, you mean about naming the quarterback?"

Q. Do you want -- people talk about if someone's looking over their shoulder and they have a bad start to a game or a tough day at practice?

"Those are all things that we have to hit on. I'm not very experienced in this. If you look, check the annals of college football history, I'm not sure that's happened. So I think I have to do what's best for the team at that moment. That is you have two very good players that are very invested. What is the best chance of moving this team down the field and putting them in the endzone? That is kind of the mindset I've had right now.

"But I think those things I'm constantly thinking about because I don't want players -- and we try not to do that here. That's why we talk about 4 to 6, A to B, don't worry about mistakes, go as hard as you can, and we'll fix it. Mistakes are fixed by great effort."

So playing both might be easy. It might be what both have earned. When I asked offensive coordinator Ed Warinner the benefit of playing two quarterbacks, his search for an answer landed on that.

"The number one benefit is they're both great people that work extremely hard and have led this team to big wins and played very hard for us," Warinner said. "The benefit would be that they both ... get some reward because the reward for our guys is they work 12 months a year to go play 12 games."

But there are plenty of players who work hard and don't play. What's best for the team is what makes that choice. Why would that change at quarterback? The only rationale for two quarterbacks is some explanation that two options would make life harder on opposing defenses and easier for the Ohio State offense.

Not that it might make two players happy.

"It would be nice. Maybe on the inside one wouldn't be as crushed as he would be if he didn't get any playing time at all," said Tyvis Powell, Jones' roommate and Barrett's friend as well. 

There's certainly a chance none of this is true. The players have continued to share first-team snaps, but no one knows the plan in Meyer's head. There's every reason to trust Meyer to make this call.

The Buckeyes can win, and big, with either Jones or Barrett. With a chance to start in the future (Barrett) or a big NFL check waiting for him (Jones), either should be able to handle news that they aren't the guy.

But not making a choice? That's hard to imagine. Why offer the chance to create an ongoing issue when there's no reason for there to be one?

Ohio State can win playing either quarterback. Maybe they can win playing both. But that's a risk they don't have to take.

Mark Shapiro knew that the last day was an inevitability. When the Blue Jays came calling in late July, when owner Paul Dolan provided permission for the sides to negotiate and when the now 48-year-old received the blessing from his family, Shapiro knew the last day was near.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Mark Shapiro remembers the first day. He can recall climbing the stairs of Gate A at Municipal Stadium. He remembers walking down the hall to his cubicle, which sat outside of John Hart's office. He remembers the nervous enthusiasm of a 25-year-old assistant in the baseball operations department.

He never envisioned the last day. He isn't sure how he'll feel when the Indians' season reaches its endpoint, when he walks out of the Progressive Field offices for the final time, when he ditches the contents of his wallet for some loonies and toonies.

Shapiro knew, though, that the last day was an inevitability. When the Blue Jays came calling in late July, when owner Paul Dolan provided permission for the sides to negotiate and when the now 48-year-old received the blessing from his family, Shapiro knew the last day was near.

"He said almost from the day he started [as team president]," Dolan said, "that there would come a day when he built an organization that he would no longer need to be a part of."

Citing respect for Toronto's organization and its surge toward its first postseason berth since 1993, Shapiro shied away Monday from explicitly detailing what enticed him about the role as Blue Jays president and CEO. He contended that overseeing a franchise that operates with a payroll nearly twice that of what he had at his disposal in Cleveland "played very little, if at all" into his decision-making. He did admit, however, that he could "understand why that might be the impression from the outside."

After all, Shapiro said his greatest challenge was ensuring that he "never let" the small market claim "be an excuse."

"Every situation has its own challenges," Shapiro said. "They play in a division with the Yankees and Red Sox. You can't look at pure payroll as a driver for the change. It truly is a leadership position that I feel is a unique one for a lot of different reasons that'll talk about in a couple months. It's an incredibly different place that will allow me to grow and develop."

Shapiro kept returning to those trusty keywords as he explained his decision to reporters on Monday. After 24 years in a variety of roles with the Indians -- farm director, general manager, president -- he wanted to continue his occupational ascension.

"I outgrew any role here, unless Paul wants to hand the team to me from an ownership perspective," Shapiro said, laughing. "It just became, 'How do I continue to grow and develop?' This afforded a greater opportunity to even expand my leadership beyond what it is here."

That first year in Cleveland, Shapiro and his younger brother, David, packed up a U-Haul truck and drove down Ontario Street toward Shapiro's new downtown residence. He pointed to the corner of Carnegie and Ontario, where one soon-to-be-demolished building stood in the place Jacobs Field would open its gates two years later.

Shapiro arrived to the Indians' organization when the franchise was on the cusp of its most cherished era. He spearheaded a series of rebuilding phases, some that produced a winning season or two and others that never prospered. He captained the ballpark's first significant renovations project and hopes to provide a voice in any discussions that eventually arise regarding Rogers Centre, where the Blue Jays play.

Through it all, he built relationships. A lot of them. Rarely does a front-office executive stay in place for so long.

"Those relationships, those bonds," Shapiro said, "are what made this decision so incredibly difficult and painful at times for me over the past weeks."

Shapiro's wife and two children will finish out the school year in Cleveland before they join him in Toronto. His son, Caden, will play his baseball season in familiar surroundings once he completes his recovery from a scooter-induced foot injury.

Eventually, everyone will leave their comfort zone and venture to a territory unknown, north of the border. Shapiro had an idea that day would eventually arrive, he just never imagined what it would be like to leave the only franchise he has ever known.

"I'm a lot about wanting to become better, wanting to grow, wanting to develop," Shapiro said. "To do that, you have to be challenged. To do that, you have to take on new challenges and sometimes be a little uncomfortable."

Get live updates and chat with beat writer Paul Hoynes as the Indians open a three-game series with Toronto on Monday night at Rogers Centre.

TORONTO -- Danny Salazar will face David Price in the series opener Monday night between the Indians and Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Chat and get live updates with beat writer Paul Hoynes.

Game No. 130: Indians (63-66), Blue Jays (74-56).

First pitch: 7:07 p.m.

TV/radio: SportsTime Ohio WTAM, WMMS.

Usain Bolt has won 17 World Championships and Olympics gold medals, tying him with Carl Lewis for the most ever. We recap each of Bolt's medals.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Usain Bolt has won 17 gold medals in the Olympics and IAAF World Championships. See a recap of each medal below.

Bolt is tied with Carl Lewis for the most championship gold medals. 

At the just-concluded World Championships in Beijing, Bolt swept the 100, 200 and 4x100-meter finals for the third consecutive championships (2012 London Olympics, 2013 World Championships in Moscow). The 29-year-old Jamaican also swept the three events at the 2008 Olympics and 2009 World Championships. He won two golds at the 2011 Worlds.

He is the world-record holder in all three events.

How dominant has Bolt been? He is 17-1 in finals since 2008. The only time he did not win a gold medal, he was disqualified by a false start in the 100-meter final of the 2011 World Championships. He was favored to win the race.

Bolt has 19 career medals, including two silvers he won in 2007 as a 21-year-old.

Bolt's 11 career World Championships gold medals is a record. He had been tied with Carl Lewis, Michael Johnson and Allyson Felix with eight each. Felix won her ninth gold last week in the 400.

Looking ahead to the 2016 Rio Olympics, Bolt could become the most decorated track and field athlete ever. Lewis won 20 career World and Olympic medals. He won nine Olympic gold medals.

Middle-distance runner Paavo Nurmi, the "Flying Finn'' of the 1920s, holds the record for most Olympic track medals and gold medals (12 overall, nine gold). But he competed before the World Championships were started.

Lewis and Cleveland's Jesse Owens won four gold medals at one Olympics. Owens won the 100, 200, 4x100 and long jump in 1936 and Lewis equaled the feat in 1984. 

For the record, we'd love to see Bolt in the long jump. Or the 400. Or the 800.

Here's a recap of Bolt's 17 golds, two silvers at the World Championships and Olympics:

2015 World Championships, Beijing

• 100: Gold, 9.79 seconds
• 200: Gold, 19.55
• 4x100: Gold, 37.36

2013 World Championships, Moscow

• 100: Gold, 9.77
• 200: Gold, 19.66
• 4x100: Gold, 37.36

2012 Olympics, London

• 100: Gold, 9.63 (Olympic record)
• 200: Gold, 19.32
• 4x100: Gold, 36.84 (World record)

2011 World Championships, Daegu*

• 200: Gold, 19.40
• 4x100: Gold, 37.04 (World record)

2009 World Championships, Berlin

• 100: Gold, 9.58 (World record)
• 200: Gold, 19.19 (World record)
• 4x100: Gold, 37.31

2008 Olympics, Beijing

• 100: Gold, 9.69 (World, Olympic record)
• 200: Gold, 19.30 (World, Olympic record)
• 4x100: Gold, 37.10 (World, Olympic record)

2007 World Championships, Osaka

• 200: Silver, 19.91
• 4x100: Silver, 37.89

*--Disqualified in 100-meter final, false start.

"Internally, we'll look at it to see if there's a gap we need to fill," Dolan said, "but right now our plan is to move forward as is."

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians will not receive compensation from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for the services of Mark Shapiro.

In fact, the Indians might not even replace the man who will leave the franchise after 24 years to join Toronto as the organization's president and CEO.

At the outset, those who reported directly to Shapiro will now deal directly with owner Paul Dolan.

"We will take our time and settle on the best internal structure to run this team going forward," Dolan said Monday.

Shapiro oversaw both the baseball operations side and the business side of the Indians' organization. He served as the club's general manager for nine years before he advanced to the role of president in 2010.

"Internally, we'll look at it to see if there's a gap we need to fill," Dolan said, "but right now our plan is to move forward as is."

Dolan said that if GM Chris Antonetti determines he needs an additional baseball voice, he could hire some form of a special advisor. He stressed, however, that "in no way is that a replacement of the president. That would be a niche role on the baseball side."

It doesn't appear as though there will be a transition similar to the one completed five years ago, when Shapiro moved from GM to president and Antonetti slid over from assistant GM to GM.

"Chris has not expressed interest there," Dolan said. "It's not where his focus has been. Mark had talked about being team president for a long time."

As far as the managerial position, both Dolan and Shapiro emphasized that Terry Francona is expected to remain with the organization. Dolan said he is "very confident that [Francona] is happy."

"He may have come here because of his relationship with both Chris and I," Shapiro said, "but the relationship he has forged with Chris over the past few years is one of the most unique ones I have seen in my time in the game. I would say there is zero question about Terry. He is here, he is committed here and committed to his partnership with Chris."

Shapiro, Antonetti and Dolan have discussed the potential for Shapiro to recruit members of the Indians' front office to join him in Toronto. However, Shapiro said Monday, he is not presently considering anyone.

"If that's a conversation going forward," Shapiro said, "it's one that I'll have with the utmost respect for what's being done here. My web in the game runs pretty deep. They're doing well (in Toronto). My nature is to go in and meet the people there, understand their own challenges, the structure, the process, who's there, and after that we can see if there will be any changes."

Browns coach Mike Pettine has no idea how long Duke Johnson will be out with his concussion, but he has no plans to add a back this week. Watch video

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns running back Duke Johnson was idle with his concussion Monday and will sit out Thursday night's game in Chicago, but the Browns have no plans to add a running back this week, coach Mike Pettine said.

"For the immediate future for this week, we are not,'' said Pettine. "We'll wait and see. Duke was obviously out today. We should get word (on his status). We will wait and see where we are with it."

Pettine, who said Sunday the Browns might have to add a running back, said he doesn't know the severity of Johnson's concussion or when he'll return.

Longtime Bills running back Fred Jackson, who spent the 2013 with Pettine in Buffalo, was cut Monday, but he could be picked up by another team by the time the Browns decide if they need a back.

"We are aware of who is available,'' said Pettine, who also didn't rule out Ray Rice on Sunday.  "I will leave it at that."

The Browns also terminated the contract of backup running back Jalen Parmele on Monday, leaving them a little shorthanded in the backfield for the preseason finale.  But third-year back Shaun Draughn, who was signed by the Browns as a free agent last December, made progress Monday in his bid to return from a thumb injury suffered during the Orange and Brown scrimmage Aug. 7.

 "He handled (the ball) some today,'' said Pettine. "The further he gets along, the more they can remove from the cast. He will get to the point where he will just have a protective covering on it and not a cast. There is a chance, even Thursday night, that he will handle the ball some."

Pettine said Draughn doesn't have to play against the Bears to make the team. The Browns liked him enough to re-sign him as an exclusive rights free agent in March, and he has a good chance of making the roster, especially with Johnson ailing. The two play similar roles, including their ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.

"We already have a lot of information on Shaun,'' said Pettine. "Whether he plays Thursday or to what extent he can play, I don't think that will be a determining factor when we do the final evaluation of the roster. We had him here for the end of last year and through the season. We know who he is. When things settle down from Thursday night, we have enough information to make an evaluation, is what I am trying to say."

If the Browns do decide to add a back, Jackson would be the kind of mentor running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery could use in the room. When Jackson and Pettine were together in Buffalo in 2013, Jackson rushed for 890 yards on 206 carries (4.3-yard average) and nine touchdowns. He also caught 47 passes for 387 yards and a touchdown.

Pettine also spent a year with Rice in Baltimore, but the three-time Pro Bowler comes with the potential distraction of his domestic violence incident.  Still, his name has come up in discussions in Berea.

Running backs Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West ran with more authority in Tampa, with Crowell gaining 27 yards on eight carries with a long gain of 10, and West gaining 26 yards on seven rushes for a 3.7-yard average, with  a long gain of 17. The best average, however, was turned in by quarterback Josh McCown who gained 20 yards on his three carries for a 6.7-yard average.

Cleveland Browns beat writers Mary Kay Cabot and Dan Labbe report on what happened in Berea Monday. Also, videos on the running backs and Terrelle Pryor. Watch video

BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns beat writers Mary Kay Cabot and Dan Labbe take a look what happened in Berea during practice on Monday, August 31, 2015 as roster cuts begin and players return from injuries. 

Topics include:

• Preparations underway for the final preseason game in Chicago.
• Linebacker Barkevious Mingo returned to practice, but is not likely to play Thursday night.
• Defensive backs Justin Gilbert and K'Waun Williams also both returned from injuries today. 
• Terrelle Pryor continues to practice, but it is unknown if he will play against the Bears.
• Head coach Mike Pettine said they are not going to add a running back in the immediate future despite injuries to Duke Johnson and Shaun Draughn.
• Glenville product wide receiver Shane Wynn was the most significant roster cut today.
• The roster has to be down to 75 by 4 p.m. Tuesday.

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Browns linebacker Barkevious Mingo practiced for the first time since undergoing a knee scope Aug. 6 and Terrelle Pryor is hoping to play in Chicago Thursday. Watch video

BEREA, Ohio -- Barkevious Mingo, Terrelle Pryor and Justin Gilbert were among the injured players that returned to action Monday, but it doesn't necessarily mean they'll play Thursday night in the preseason finale in Chicago.

It was a light session in shorts and no pads, the perfect opportunity for some of the injured guys to ease their way back in. Here are some quick hitters from the day:

* Pryor, who sat out the Bucs game, is hoping to see action against the Bears.

"We'll know a little bit more tomorrow because tomorrow will be full-speed tempo in pads,'' said Pettine. "Today was a just a jog-through. He looked good out there today. I think tomorrow will truly tell. If he does go against Chicago, he will be limited as far as the number of plays he is going to play. We are not just going to put him out there and say, 'Play the whole game.' We will have a clear plan for him on Thursday and we are hopeful that he can go." 

* Mingo practiced on a limited basis for the first time since undergoing a knee scope Aug. 6. He'll be limited when the Browns are in pads on Tuesday but is aiming for the Jets Sept. 13.

"Because today was jog-through pace, he was able to go through a lot,'' said Pettine. "That was encouraging to see that he truly is on pace to be back potentially for Week 1."

Said Mingo: "It's 2 weeks away or a week away. if I had my choice, I'd be out there. but we'll see how everything progresses in the coming week or weeks, however long we've got.''

* Phil Taylor is still limited but making progress after what Pettine described as "a serious knee injury.'' Taylor said he's gone through two scopes on the knee. But Pettine said the second scope was more extensive.

"He did some good things,'' said Pettine. "That is more of a confidence test than anything out there to be able to go out there and know that it is full speed and push off of it and change direction and take on double teams. I think just like anybody else, (OL) Alex (Mack), anybody coming off leg injury, (DL) Armonty (Bryant), a lot more of it is the mental than it is the physical. It was good to get him out there. As limited as it was, it was good to get him out there playing."
He said he doesn't know when he'll be able to play this season.
"I don't because that was a pretty serious knee injury and those things take time,'' said Pettine. "I just don't have a good answer for that."

* Pettine isn't worried about Dwayne Bowe, who missed most of camp with a strained hamstring.

"He just needs to play in our system,'' said Pettine. "There is plenty of tape, years and years of tape to go back and look at it. That is why he's here. He just needs to play in our system, and it's been unfortunate that he's been hurt. Dwayne is a professional, and we are confident he will be able to perform at a high level when he is out there." 

* Cornerbacks Justin Gilbert (hip flexor) and K'Waun Williams (abdominal) participated in the jog-through, but it doesn't sound like Gilbert, at least, will play Thursday. Robert Nelson Jr. (hamstring) also practiced.

 "Gilbert went today just because of the tempo of practice,'' Pettine said.
Cornerbacks Pierre Desir (concussion) and Charles Gaines (hamstring) were idle Monday.

* Linebacker Nate Orchard sat out the Bucs game and Monday's practice with a back injury, but Pettine doesn't expect it to be anything serious.

"We are confident just a little bit of time and treatment and rehab will take care of it. I don't see it as anything at this point that will cause him to miss games."

* Johnny Manziel continues to rest his sore right elbow, and Pettine doesn't know when he'll throw again.

"He is on the training room protocol with it. There is not any real update with Johnny."

* Pettine, on the kicking competition: "It is close. It is close. We are going to discuss that. We still have some moves to make to get to 75. We are going to get together here tonight to make the decision as to whether or not we can still carry two or whether we are going to have to make a decision here quickly."

* Pettine praised Glenville High product Shane Wynn, whom the Browns cut Monday. He's eligible to return on the practice squad if he clears waivers.

"He made plays,'' said Pettine. "I think Shane got caught up in the numbers a little bit. We loved having Shane here. We loved his attitude. He was productive for us. He went out and worked hard every day and made plays. I tell those guys, 'Just because the door closes one place, hopefully, it can open others. 'To me it certainly would be open here if we ever needed for him to be back here. He did enough good things and left a favorable enough impression. I think he has an NFL skillset. It just ended up being a numbers thing."

 * ESPN is reporting the Raiders have cut Trent Richardson, the former No. 3 overall pick of the Browns in 2012. To think, former Browns President Joe Banner, now an ESPN analyst, got a first-round pick from the Colts for him.

* The following other Browns did not participate today: OL Michael Bowie (shoulder), DB Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (knee), FB Luke Lundy (concussion), QB Connor Shaw (right thumb), TE Randall Telfer (foot), and RB Glenn Winston (knee).

Manager Terry Francona says the happiness he feels for Mark Shapiro finding a new challenge as presidet and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays outweighs to sadness of having him leave the Indians.

TORONTO - Monday's news that Mark Shapiro was leaving the Indians to become president and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays was old news to manager Terry Francona.

Shapiro had talked to him about it a number of times. On Sunday, Shapiro explained to Francona's coaching staff why he was leaving.

"The happiness for Mark outweighs the fact that we're all going to miss him a ton," said Shapiro before Monday's series against Toronto at Rogers Centre. "He's been really good about keeping us informed while trying to respect everybody's privacy and the fact of how well Toronto is playing.

"So when it finally came, I don't think anyone who was in the loop was really shocked."

A Toronto reporter asked Francona what kind of person the Jays hired.

"You don't have enough time," said Francona. "This guy is intelligent and he takes that intelligence and is very driven and organized.

"Then you take his people skills, because he cares about people probably more than anything else, it's a pretty good combination. Anybody he comes into contact with, he's going to make better."

In 2001, after Francona was fired after four years as Philadelphia's manager, he went to work for Shapiro as a special assistant to baseball operations.

"I'd just been fired and my self esteem probably had taken a hit," said Francona. "Mark is the guy who reached out to me and convinced me to take that role as special assistant.

"It ended up being a wonderful year. One, I ended up getting to know Mark so well. Then I got to know Chris (Antonetti, current general manager). You can't find better people."

As for what made Shapiro leave the Indians after 24 years, Francona said, "You're better off asking him. I just know that under the right situation he was looking for that challenge. I don't know all the ins and outs of the job. I don't need to, but I can guarantee you that whatever he wraps his arms around, he's going to make it better."

He's back: Carlos Santana has 19 RBI in his last 22 games and 26 since the All-Star break.

"I feel much better at the plate right now," said Santana. "Right now, my back isn't bothering me. I feel much better."

Santana said he's been dealing with a sore back for the last few months.

"I think I was tired and did it swinging, but I'm feeling better now," said Santana.

Santana hit .221 (102-for-529) with 10 homers and 40 RBI before the All-Star break. He's hitting .252 (39-for-155) with five homers and 26 RBI since the break.

Newcomers: Right-hander Shawn Armstrong will join the Indians on Tuesday from Class AAA Columbus when the rosters expand. As expected, Francona added that infielder Chris Johnson and right-hander Gavin Floyd will be activated from the disabled list.

This will be Armstrong's second tour with the Tribe this season. He made appearances on Aug. 8 and Aug. 13, throwing 2 2/3 scoreless innings. He struck out four, walked one and didn't allow a hit.

Armstrong, an 11^th round pick in 2011 out of East Carolina University, is 1-2 with a 2.36 ERA and 16 saves at Columbus. He's struck out 80, walked 26 and allowed 13 earned runs in 49 2/3 innings.

The Indians acquired Johnson from the Braves for Michael Bourn and Nick Swisher on Aug. 7. He hit .429 (9-for-21) in six games before getting bit on the left thumb by a spider during the Indians' trip to Minneapolis. The hand became infected and he had to go on the disabled list.

Floyd signed a one-year $4 million free-agent deal in the off-season. He fractured a bone in his right elbow during spring training and needed surgery. He'll pitch out of the bullpen.

Francona said a couple of other players will be joining the Indians in Detroit when they open a three-game series Friday.

Finally: The grand slams by Yan Gomes and Abraham Almonte on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, mark just the second time in Progressive Field history that the Indians have hit slams in consecutive games. Manny Ramirez and Kenny Lofton did it on Aug. 19 and Aug. 20, 2000.

The RubberDucks have lost four in a row and 11 of 13.

RubberDucks pitcher D.J. Brown pitched six solid innings but was outmatched by Erie starter Josh Turley as the SeaWolves won, 2-1, in a Class AA Eastern League game Monday night at Akron.

Erie scored twice in the first inning, stringing together two doubles and a single and taking advantage of a throwing error by RubberDucks third baseman Yandy Diaz.

Meanwhile, the RubberDucks had no answers for Turley (12-8, 3.33 ERA), who held Akron scoreless in seven innings, striking out six and giving up just five hits.

The RubberDucks finally got on the board in the eighth inning, with Bradley Zimmer scoring on a groundout by Carlos Moncrief.

Brown (1-3, 3.86) gave up two runs, neither earned, and six hits.

The RubberDucks have lost four in a row and 11 of 13.