A lockout would put the brakes on the momentum in Cleveland, where the Cavs have the No. 1, No. 4 and two second-round picks in the June 23 NBA Draft.

View full sizeDan Steinberg l Associated PressCavaliers guard Daniel Gibson tied the knot last weekend with Keyshia Cole. The couple may have plenty of time for an extended honeymoon, as the NBA could be joining the NFL in a lockout starting July 1.

"You look at this postseason and the record numbers of people tuning in -- the ratings are at an all-time high," he said. "We have new blood, new faces emerging in the playoffs like Derrick Rose, a young star, and Kevin Durant.

"There's the drama of it all with the Miami Heat and Dallas getting another crack at it, with that 2006 series haunting the Mavericks.

"It would be a shame to bring this to a halt."

Yet, that prospect is looming if the NBA and the players association are unable to reach agreement on a new collective-bargaining agreement. The current agreement expires June 30, and there will be a lockout July 1 if a new deal is not reached.

The NFL has locked out its players while trying to reach a new agreement, so it's possible both the Cavs and the Browns could be out of work this summer.

"It seems like from all indications, that's where we're headed," said Parker, the team's player representative.

That would put the brakes on the momentum in Cleveland, where 14-year-old charmer Nick Gilbert, owner Dan Gilbert's son, won the May 17 lottery to bring home the No. 1 pick in the June 23 NBA Draft. The Cavs also have the No. 4 pick and two second-round picks, plus a $14.5 million trade exception that expires July 9.

Parker is scheduled to attend a players association meeting in New York on June 23, but he doesn't expect a lot of movement leading up to that. The association last week filed an unfair labor practice charge against the NBA with the National Labor Relations Board.

Parker said he did not get advance notice of that move, but he fully supported it and union head Billy Hunter. The players association chief took exception to what he said is the NBA putting forth that progress is being made.

"He's saying, 'No, we're not making the progress that we hoped to,' " Parker said.

Wedding bells: Daniel Gibson and Keyshia Cole tweeted the announcement of their marriage last weekend: "It's official. Mr. and Mrs. Gibson. We appreciate all the well wishes." The couple have a 1-year-old son, Daniel Hiram Gibson Jr.

Combine leftovers: One statistic that raised some eyebrows was Kyrie Irving's 10.2 percent body fat, but it's clearly nothing to worry about at this point. The former Duke point guard, projected by many to go No. 1 in the draft, measured 6-3 1/2 and 191 pounds at the combine.

"I'm still a work in progress," said Irving, who suffered a toe injury last season that limited him to 11 games but has been working out twice a day lately. "It's kind of embarrassing that it's at 10 percent, but it's something that my father has told me I can't really worry about. . . . Eating, not working out is something I wasn't used to. My body fat being 10 percent is something I'm not worried about, but I'm working toward getting better."

Point guard Brandon Knight of Kentucky may have been the best student to take part in the combine. He had straight As in high school and during his one year of college. He said he actually got a B in ninth or 10th grade in a U.S. history class, but it was an advanced course so it counted the same as an A.

The Morris twins of Kansas--Marcus and Markieff -- each have 17 tattoos in exactly the same places.

Cleveland State's Norris Cole and Ohio State's Dallas Lauderdale are among six players scheduled to work out for the Utah Jazz today. Also invited are Purdue's JaJuan Johnson, Butler's Shelvin Mack, Markieff Morris and Jeremy Tyler, who played in Japan last year.

Hot Rod arrested: Police in Gonzales, La., arrested former Cav John "Hot Rod" Williams, 48, on a misdemeanor count related to gunshots fired during a party at his home last Saturday. Gonzales police told The Advocate of Baton Rouge that Williams and relatives told officers that about eight shots were fired by an unknown person attending Saturday's party put on for members of Williams' family. If convicted, Williams faces a fine of up to $500, six months in prison or both. Police said no one was injured and no property was damaged.

Draft tickets: Fans who want to watch the Cavaliers make the No. 1 and No. 4 picks in person at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., on June 23 can purchase tickets for $15 at ticketmaster.com or at the Prudential Center box office.

The last word: From fromer Cav and Laker Ron Harper, on new Lakers coach Mike Brown: "Good for him. He has big shoes to fill. But I'm sure he's going to do a good job. If I had any advice for him, I'd tell him to be who he is. Don't try to change. Be yourself. Don't fall into all that 'Showtime' stuff. Nobody cares about that. All they want you to do is get Ws. That's the key."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: mschmitt@plaind.com, 216-999-4668

Plain Dealer NBA and Cavaliers beat writer Mary Schmitt Boyer answers readers' questions.

View full sizeLynn Ischay l The Plain DealerThere are some trade rumors swirling around Cavaliers guard Ramon Sessions.

Q: Hey, Mary: Do you think the Cavs' lottery picks may have saved the entire franchise? Or, at least keep it from moving in the near future? -- Chuck Wilson, Shaker Heights

A: Hey, Chuck: I think the lottery accelerated the team's chances of improving, although they still may not be very good next season. But there was never any chance of it moving in the near future.

Q: Hey, Mary: Does the NBA still allow teams to buy first-round picks for $3 million dollars and if so, do you think the Cavs would be in the market to buy another pick? -- Doug Becknell, Bolivar, Ohio

A: Hey, Doug: Yes, teams can still buy draft choices for $3 million, but I don't sense the Cavs are interested in doing so this year.

Q: Hey, Mary: With the last name Irving, can we afford to dub Kyrie "Dr. K"? -- Brandon Leggett, Copley

A: Hey, Brandon: I like it, but I think it's a little early for that, don't you?

Q: Hey, Mary: Would the Cavs be interested in Rashard Lewis of the Wizards? Would the Cavs go after Josh Smith with the trade exception and move him to SF? Will Ramon Sessions be traded? Is Marshon Brooks a possibility in round two? -- Darryl Holmes, Houston

Q: Hey, Mary: I heard the Knicks are interested in Sessions. Since the draft is supposed to be weak, any chance the Cavs trade Sessions for their No. 17 pick and then package 4 and 17 to get someone like Rudy Gay? -- Ken Dieckhoner, Brooklyn

A: Hey, Darryl and Ken: I've grouped your questions together because they're so similar. I don't think the Cavs are interested in either Lewis or Smith. I don't think they plan to trade Ramon Sessions at this point, although I have heard the New York rumor. I think we'll have to wait to see what happens in the draft. Brooks is an interesting possibility, but an NBA source has said there's nothing to the Rudy Gay rumors.

Q: Hey, Mary: This may be reaching a bit, but I was wondering what chance the Cavs would have to swap their two picks in this year's second round for Portland's 21st pick in the first round. I know it's a weak draft class, which make the second-round choices less valuable, but it also makes Portland's pick less valuable, too. If the Cavs could pull it off, what would you think about using that new pick to take Lucas Nogueira? I realize he's probably going to need to develop in either Europe or the D-league, but with two picks in the top four, I think we could afford to gamble on a pick like this. -- J. Smith, Rocky River

A: Hey, J.: That seems unlikely. Nogueira is a project and too much of a reach even at No. 21.

Q: Hey, Mary: Here is what I would do with the No. 1 and No. 4 picks and you tell me if I am on drugs. I feel since they are already loaded at the one guard they should grab Derrick Williams with the No. 1 since he will be gone at No. 4. When it comes to No. 4 I say they look to take Brandon Knight or Kemba Walker if they really want to focus on getting a quality point guard. Irving has only played a half a year, which shows he is injury prone and his lack of participation at the combine should be a red flag as it relates to his character. Williams and Knight are both studs and would give us an instant shot in the arm and allow us to compete immediately for the division. If you agree please get word to Chris Grant ASAP so he can take this into consideration if he has not already. Thanks for your time and Go Cavs. -- Mike Stapleton, Carlsbad, Calif.

Q: Hey, Mary: In terms of the Cavs' selections in this draft, I think if I am honest with myself, I would rather have Enes Kanter and Kemba Walker over Kyrie Irving and Jonas Valanciunas as widely reported. However, many analysts see Kanter going at No. 2 or No. 3. Is there a possibility of trading down to Minnesota or Utah and picking up additional young talent, while forgoing Irving, who to me is talented, but untested and injury prone. Love to hear your thoughts. -- Mike Traylor, Rochester

Q: Hey, Mary: What do you think of the Cavs drafting Derrick Williams with the No. 1 pick and Kemba Walker at No. 4? I know this is contrary to what the experts are saying, but I'm a believer in drafting the best talent available and not by position. Also, I see a lot of Derrick Rose in Walker. Both have similar quickness, strength and leadership qualities. I think Williams and Walker would make an awesome one-two punch for years to come. Do you think this at all a possibility? -- Eric Sulzer, Columbus

Q: Hey, Mary: Why would the Cavs draft Kyrie Irving No. 1 overall instead of Derrick Williams? If they drafted Williams they could still get a great point guard in Kemba Walker at No. 4. However, if they draft Irving they have no chance at getting an elite SF or PF. -- Kyle Chormanski, Los Angeles

Q: Hey, Mary: What are the chances the Cavs make a deal with Minnesota and try and get the No. 2 pick? By sending J.J. Hickson and maybe some cash to try and secure Irving and Williams? -- Charles Sewell, Mansfield

Q: Hey, Mary: Given that three point guards are projected to be taken in the top five, wouldn't it be wise for the Cavs to take Derrick Williams with their first pick and then take whichever point guard is left with their next selection? There is just not much depth in the upper ranks of the draft except at point guard, so why not get the best player available at another position and get a quality point guard in the fourth position? Otherwise, we will get a point guard and then a question mark. -- Bill Thelin, Akron

Q: Hey, Mary: Even though the Cavs have the first pick, shouldn't they choose a small forward or shooting guard? Since Anthony Parker and Ryan Hollins are free agents and can decide to leave the team would it not be best to chose a small forward instead of a point guard? The Cavaliers have three point guards that are suiting up next season and if they draft Kyrie Irving the other point guards may not play as much. My best guess is to draft Derrick Williams or even Jan Vesely or Kawhi Leonard. All I am saying is that with either one of the picks they should pick as SG/SF as a player. -- Shawn Iyer, Macedonia

Q: Hey, Mary: While I like the idea of an Irving and Kanter pairing, what do you think it would take to move up to the No. 2 pick to grab Williams to go with Irving? Can they swap picks and Cleveland adds what to the trade -- Sessions, trade exception, take on contracts? Do you think it is even feasible? Do you think it is worthwhile? -- Bill Murphy, Rocky River

Q: Hey, Mary: If the NBA doesn't play all year because of the labor lockout, do the Cavs pick in the same order next year? If so do Cavs only get fourth pick because the first pick belonged to the Clippers, or do we somehow still get the first? Also, what about drafting Irving first this year and trade Hickson for the second pick, then draft Williams, then let the Jazz draft Knight, our fourth pick draft Kanter, then play Williams at the small forward and power forward and see which position he plays best. Also use trade exception on Detroit or someone like that for a player such as Hamilton but also get their lottery pick next year as we did to the Clippers this year. Then we could draft Sullinger or best available players with two picks next year and build through the draft with older vets to teach them. Free-agent centers this year and next -- Howard, Kaman, Chandler, Yao. Also players that might be available in a trade -- Mayo, Paul, Wallace. -- Kevin K., Westerville, Ohio

A: Hey, Mike, Mike, Eric, Kyle, Charles, Bill, Shawn, Bill and Kevin: I have grouped all your questions together because as of today, they all have the same answer. The Cavs are still researching whom they will take with the No. 1 and No. 4 picks. While I still think it's likely they will take Duke point guard Kyrie Irving at No. 1, they haven't interviewed him yet or done any medical tests on him. So all of your observations are valid at this point. I must point out to Mike Stapleton that Irving not taking part in the combine has nothing to do with his character, which has never been questioned. First of all, it was his agent's decision. Second, players have started skipping the combine workouts in order to avoid any potential injury that could jeopardize their status. This is not a great draft for small forwards or shooting guards, two positions the Cavs would like to upgrade. Kemba Walker had a great college career, but Irving is projected higher as a pro in part because he is 6-31/2 and 191 pounds while Walker is 6-1, 184. With regard to trading with Minnesota, because of how things worked out at the lottery, with the Cavs leapfrogging the Wolves for No. 1, the Cavs are the last team the Timberwolves will want to make a deal with. Also, Minnesota doesn't need to dump salary and has no need of bigs. Remember Kevin Love? Finally, Shawn, Ryan Hollins has a player option for next season, which I'm sure he will exercise, so he likely won't be a free agent.

-- Mary

Both agree the Cavaliers will take Duke guard Kyrie Irving with the top pick, but the similarities end there.

View full sizeMindaugas Kulbis l Associated PressCenter Jonas Valanciunas, center, of Lithuania could be the Cavaliers' pick at No. 4 of the first round.

ROUND 1

1. CAVS -- KYRIE IRVING, PG, DUKE

2. Timberwolves -- Enes Kanter, C, Turkey

3. Jazz -- Derrick Williams, PF, Arizona

4. CAVS -- JONAS VALANCIUNAS, C, LITHUANIA

5. Raptors -- Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky

6. Kings -- Kemba Walker, PG, UConn

7. Pistons -- Kawhi Leonard, SF, SDSU

8. Bobcats -- Bismack Biyombo, C, Congo

9. Bucks -- Marcus Morris, PF, Kansas

10. Warriors -- Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State

11. Jazz -- Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU

12. Suns -- Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania

13. Rockets -- Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas

14. Pacers -- Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

15. 76ers -- Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas

16. Knicks -- Kenneth Faried, PF, Morehead State

17. Wizards -- Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

18. Bobcats -- Jordan Hamilton, SF, Texas

19. Timberwolves -- Reggie Jackson, PG, Boston College

20. Trailblazers -- Nikola Vucevic, C, USC

21. Nuggets -- Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

22. Rockets -- Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil

23. Thunder -- Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

24. Celtics -- Jeremy Tyler, C, USA

25. Mavericks -- Davis Bertans, SF, Latvia

26. Nets -- Justin Harper, PF, Richmond

27. Bulls -- Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee

28. Spurs -- Josh Selby, SG, Kansas

29. Bulls -- Travis Leslie, SG, Georgia

30. Heat -- Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA

ROUND 2

32. CAVS -- NIKOLA MIROTIC, SF, MONTENEGRO

32. Pistons (from Raptors) -- Charles Jenkins PG Hofstra

33. Wizards -- JaJuan Johnson PF Purdue

34. Kings -- Jon Leuer PF Wisconsin

35. Nets -- Kyle Singler SF Duke

36. Clippers (from Pistons) -- Jordan Williams C Maryland

37. Rockets (from Clippers) -- Malcolm Lee SG UCLA

38. 76ers (from Bobcats) -- Keith Benson C Oakland

39. Kings (from Bucks) -- Jereme Richmond SG Illinois

40. Lakers (from Warriors) –Bojan Bogdanovic SF Serbia

41. Warriors (from Bulls via Jazz) -- Trey Thompkins PF Georgia

42. Bulls (from Suns) -- Shelvin Mack PG Butler

43. Clippers (from Rockets) -- Nolan Smith PG Duke

44. Pacers –Justin Holiday SG Washington

45. Bobcats (from 76ers) -- Iman Shumpert PG Georgia Tech

46. Lakers (from Knicks) -- Cory Joseph PG Texas

47. Hawks -- Chandler Parsons SF Florida

48. Grizzlies -- Norris Cole PG Cleveland State

49. Hornets -- Scotty Hopson SF Tennessee

50. Trailblazers -- Dmetri McCamey PG Illinois

51. Pistons (from Nuggets) -- David Lighty SG Ohio State

52. Magic -- Andrew Goudelock PG College of Charleston

53. Celtics -- E'Twuan Moore SG Purdue

54. CAVS -- JIMMY BUTLER, SF, MARQUETTE

55. Mavericks -- DeAndre Liggins SG Kentucky

56. Lakers -- Giorgi Shermadini C Georgia

57. Lakers (from Heat) -- Xavi Rabaseda SG Spain

58. Spurs -- Greg Smith PF Fresno State

59. Kings (from Bulls) -- Pablo Aguilar SF Spain

On Cavs picks: As a freshman, PG Kyrie Irving proved he is a dynamic playmaker and facilitator capable of leading a team on both ends of the court. Fears about his toe injury are overblown as he has no history of injuries nor does the injury appear to be lasting. With Byron Scott's track record of developing PGs, the Cavs would be foolish to pass him up.

The Cavs would be fortunate to have C Jonas Valanciunas fall to No. 4 on draft night. At PBD (probasketballdraft.com), we believe Valanciunas has the most upside of any international player in this draft. Roughly 7-0 with a reported wingspan of 7-6, Valanciunas is a pesky defender who has drawn comparisons to Joakim Noah, but his offensive repertoire is much more sophisticated. Valanciunas is a strong finisher at the rim and a perfect fit in the pick- and-roll. With his contract status becoming less of an issue, expect Valanciunas to be highly sought after.

SF Nikola Mirotic is a unique European prospect who plays hard on both ends. Mirotic's offense is noteworthy since he is a great shooter able to take it to the rim as well. While much has been made of his contract issues, Mirotic -- who has mid-first-round abilities -- should be joining the NBA within two seasons. Whatever team drafts Mirotic needs to be patient but will be rewarded.

SF Jimmy Butler has largely been under the radar since the season ended but is a quality wing who will be in the league for many years. He is an efficient scorer who crashes the boards, and a willing defender. What Butler lacks in athleticism he more than makes up for with IQ and polish on both ends.

-- Joe Kotoch is a Cleveland-based sports agent who operates probasketballdraft.com

View full sizeJack Dempsey l Associated PressRichmond forward Justin Harper (32) will end up with the Cavaliers in the second round, according to Allen Moll's mock draft.

Allen Moll's mock draft

ROUND 1

1. CAVS -- KYRIE IRVING, PG, DUKE

2. Timberwolves -- Derrick Williams, PF, Arizona

3. Jazz -- Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky

4. CAVS -- ENES KANTNER, C, KENTUCKY

5. Raptors -- Kemba Walker, PG, UConn

6. Wizards -- Jan Vesely, SF, KK Partizan Belgrade

7. Kings -- Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego St.

8. Pistons -- Jonas Valanciunas, C, Lithuania

9. Hornets -- Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas

10. Bucks -- Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

11. Warriors -- Marcus Morris, SF, Kansas

12. Jazz -- Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania

13. Suns -- Bismack Biyombo, C, Congo

14. Rockets -- Jordan Hamilton, SG, Texas

15. Pacers -- Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

16. 76ers -- Kenneth Faried, PF, Morehead State

17. Knicks -- Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas

18. Wizards -- Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee

19. Bobcats -- Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU

20. Timberwolves -- Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State

21. Trailblazers -- Nikola Vucevic, C, USC

22. Nuggets -- Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA

23. Rockets -- Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

24. Thunder -- Kyle Singler, SF, Duke

25. Celtics -- Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

26. Mavericks -- Travis Leslie, SF, Georgia

27. Nets -- Jeremy Tyler, C, Tokyo Apache

28. Bulls -- Nolan Smith, SG, Duke

29. Spurs -- Norris Cole, PG, Cleveland State

30. Bulls -- Shelvin Mack, SG, Butler

ROUND 2

31. Heat -- JaJuan Johnson, C, Purdue

32. CAVS -- JUSTIN HARPER, PF, RICHMOND

33. Pistons -- Josh Selby, PG, Kansas

34. Wizards -- Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra

35. Kings -- Keith Benson, C, Oakland

36. Nets -- Reggie Jackson, PG, Miami

37. Clippers -- David Bertans, SF, Union Olimpija

38. Rockets -- Lucas Nogueira, C, MMT Estudiantes

39. Bobcats -- Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois

40. Bucks -- Jon Leuer, PF, Wisconsin

41. Lakers -- Bojan Bogdanovic, SF, International

42. Pacers -- Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia

43. Bulls -- Malcolm Lee, SG, UCLA

44. Warriors -- Jordan Williams, C, Maryland

45. Bobcats -- Chandler Parsons, SF, Florida

46. Lakers -- Jimmy Butler, SF, Marquette

47. Clippers -- E'Twuan Moore, SG, Purdue

48. Hawks -- Iman Shumpert, SG, Georgia Tech

49. Grizzlies -- Ben Hansbrough, SG, Notre Dame

50. 76ers -- Justin Holiday, SG, Washington

51. Trailblazers -- Isaiah Thomas, PG, Washington

52. Pistons -- David Lighty, SG, Ohio State

53. Magic -- Demetri McCamey, PG, Illinois

54. CAVS -- DEANDRE LIGGINS, SF, KENTUCKY

55. Celtics -- Malcolm Thomas, PF, San Diego State

56. Lakers -- Scotty Hopson, SG, Tennessee

57. Mavericks -- Andrew Goudelock, PG, Charleston

58. Lakers -- Greg Smith, C, Fresno State

59. Spurs -- Vernon Macklin, C, Florida

60. Kings -- Mathew Bryan-Amaning, PF, Washington

On Cavs picks: With the first and fourth selections, PG Kyrie Irving and PF/C Enes Kantner fit the bill for Cavs. While Irving skipped the workout portion of the scouting combine, Kantner has impressed by measuring out a legit 6-11 in shoes and appears slightly more athletic than we originally thought. There is also a thought of taking the 6-11 but offensively challenged Jonas Valanciunas as high as No. 4 but with the defensive- minded Anderson Varejao already entrenched down low, it would be a wise choice for the Cavs to select the much more polished Kantner or even possibly the 7-0 Lithuanian scorer Donatas Motiejunas. Jan Vesely also could be a choice as a ferocious Blake Griffin-type power player, but contract issues will likely keep him in Europe for a few seasons.

With pick No. 32, they would be lucky if PF Justin Harper is still on the board. He could be one of the sleepers of the draft, a face-up SF in a PF body (6-9, 230). He is a younger version of the aging Antawn Jamison in that he has a developing post game, matched with an extremely long wingspan, and outstanding 3-point prowess (45 percent). Harper is a virtual unknown but helped his A-10 squad to two deep NCAA Tournament runs.

With their final selection at No. 54, Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins is an excellent fit as he can play any position from 1 through 4 and projects as a lockdown perimeter defender.

-- Allen Moll is a contributor for thehoopdoctors.com

Santana might be struggling at the plate, but the team likes the way he calls the game.

View full sizeChuck Crow l Plain Dealer file photoIndians catcher Carlos Santana has struggled at the plate this season, but not behind it. Team officials and coaches are thrilled with his defense and are confident he will hit his way out of an early-season slump.

1. Who is the most recent significant Tribe player to come up from the minors . . . and not go back? I thought it was Grady Sizemore, but he made a return visit at the end of 2004 for 20 days. CC Sabathia came up to stay in 2001. Victor Martinez was up briefly in September 2003. He opened the 2004 season at Class AAA, then came up that summer -- and stayed. So let's say it's Martinez, because his 2003 late-season promotion came straight from Class AA.

2. That's why Josh Tomlin and Carlos Santana really are looking to beat the odds. Both were promoted last season and both have remained with the Tribe. Tomlin (6-2, 2.74 ERA) is off to an All-Star start. In his first 22 major-league starts, he's 12-6 with a 3.70 ERA, holding hitters to a .235 average. Vinnie Pestano joined the club this season and likewise is off to a good start in terms of not having to revisit Columbus.

3. The point is that few come up to the majors and stay -- Manny Ramirez and Charles Nagy did it. But Albert Belle, Jim Thome and Omar Vizquel did not. And it's been much harder since moving into the 2000s for Tribe players to make it to Cleveland and stick on their first try. You can go around the diamond and all the guys who were in the Tribe farm system first have been sent back at least once -- Michael Brantley, Matt LaPorta, Asdrubal Cabrera, Shin-Soo Choo, Lou Marson, Carlos Carrasco, Rafael Perez, Joe Smith, Fausto Carmona and others.

4. Santana entered Saturday hitting .207 with six homers and 21 RBI. The Indians have no intention -- for a variety of reasons -- of sending him to the minors. When it comes to his bat, the Tribe mentions that Santana ranks No. 8 among American League catchers with a .719 OPS (on-base percentage plus slugging percentage). He is No. 5 in homers, No. 6 in RBI, and No. 4 in the entire league with 33 walks. They believe his 1-to-1 ratio of strikeouts (33) to walks (33) shows he's disciplined at the plate and will get untracked at the plate. He's a .290 (.899 OPS) hitter in the minors.

5. And the team likes his defense. The Indians' pitchers and coaches are pleased with his game calling. He has combined with backup catcher Marson to allow a combined total of just eight wild pitches and passed balls: That's the fewest in the majors, where the average is 19.

6. The Indians have allowed only 26 stolen bases, the fourth fewest in the AL, and have thrown out 33 percent of would-be base stealers. Marson also is excellent defensively. Give coach Sandy Alomar Jr. credit for teaching these guys to block balls in the dirt and to help them develop a quick release on their throws.

7. The Indians also have no alternative at catcher at this point, where Marson is a career .210 hitter (.604 OPS) in 372 at-bats. The front office believes defense is a key to the Indians' success this season, and the two young catchers are a big part of it. They control the running game and give pitchers confidence to throw sinkers in the dirt because the catchers seldom allow wild pitches.

8. Baseball is changing to more of a defensive game. Jack Hannahan entered Saturday's game hitting .232, but that humble batting average ranked No. 6 among all AL third baseman. His .674 OPS was No. 7. His 17 walks, No. 5. Hannahan ranks in the top three defensively, according to fangraphs.com and other measurements.

9. The average American Leaguer was hitting .251 with a .712 OPS as of Friday. At this point in 2010, it was .258 and .734. In 2009, it was .267 and .767. So, you can see there is a leaguewide decline in offense,

10. The Indians have the fourth-fewest errors in the AL. They rank No. 3 in defensive efficiency; a year ago, they ranked No. 12. Internally, the Indians had their infield defense ranked as the worst in the AL last season. Now, it has been in the fourth- to sixth-best range all season. That's why the Indians are in no rush to promote Lonnie Chisenhall (.280, 5 HR, 26 RBI, .808 OPS) from Class AAA Columbus, where he has seven errors at third. The same with Jason Kipnis (.292, 5 HR, 29 RBI, .868 OPS), who has eight errors at second base.

11. The minor-leaguer making a major push, however, is Cord Phelps (.315, 7 HR, 35 RBI, .941 OPS). He has only four errors as he bounces between second and short. He has three errors in 23 games at short, where he has "been surprisingly OK," according to one Tribe operative. The biggest surprise is that Phelps hasn't played a lot of short since high school, but he's been adequate. He has no errors in 10 games at second.

12. Yes, the Indians can change some things. If they can ever get Travis Hafner and Sizemore healthy at the same time, they can drop Santana in the lineup as they did Friday. They can consider promoting Phelps as a super utility player, or to take over at second if veteran Orlando Cabrera fades. But whatever they do, they want the defense to stay sound.

ABOUT THE TRIBE ROTATION . . .

1. While many fans agonize over the batting order, I'm far more concerned about the rotation. The Indians are off to a great start primarily because the starters work at least six innings in most games. Hot young prospect Alex White (finger injury) is out for a few months. Carlos Carrasco, who got the win Saturday over the Rays (two earned runs in six innings) has been iffy since coming back from his minor arm problem. Mitch Talbot says he's healthy, but he has to prove it. He has been on the disabled list in each of the past three seasons with an aching elbow.

View full sizePDIndians starter Mitch Talbot.

2. Talbot is throwing 46 percent first- pitch strikes, the lowest of any AL starter. The league average is 56 percent. Josh Tomlin (65 percent) leads the Tribe. Talbot was 8-8 with a 3.99 ERA in the first half of 2010. Since then, his ERA is 5.40, and he's allowed the opposition to hit .310. The Indians say this season is about winning. Well, they shouldn't be patient with Talbot. He can help in long relief.

3. At Columbus, Zach McAllister threw another terrific game -- seven innings, one earned run, four hits, five strikeouts, no walks. He is 7-0 with a 2.29 ERA, walking only 10 (and allowing two homers) in 59 innings with 47 strikeouts. The 23-year-old obtained from the Yankees for Austin Kearns (before the Indians got Kearns through free agency) is close to big-league ready.

4. Also at Columbus is another youngster with promise. Yes, it seems like Jeanmar Gomez has been around a long time, but the right-hander is only 23. He has a 4-1 record and 3.16 ERA for the Clippers. In 14 games with the Tribe, he is 4-6 with a 4.74 ERA.

5. The 27-year-old Talbot is 11-14 with a 4.88 ERA in 34 major-league games. In two of three starts this season, he's failed to last five innings. They can't tolerate that because it chews up the bullpen, which has been among the AL's best this season.

6. Also at Columbus, David Huff is 3-2 with a 4.10 ERA. He's pitched 26 games at Columbus over the past three seasons with a 4.21 ERA. In the majors, he's 13-19 with a 5.84 ERA. At 26, he no longer is a key prospect.

ABOUT THE BROWNS . . .

1. Yes, the Browns are being hurt more than most teams by the lockout because they have a new coaching staff . . . again. With nothing to discuss on the football front, I decided to see exactly how many new coaches have been here since the team returned in 1999.

2. I don't mean head coaches. Pat Shurmur is the sixth in 13 years. But what about coordinators? Shurmur will be the ninth guy calling the plays since 1999. Colt McCoy will be the 10th different Week 1 starting quarterback, and the Browns will be playing the West Coast offense for the first time.

3. Shurmur is the second Browns head coach to call his own plays. Chris Palmer did it in 1999. He had Pete Carmichael as his offensive coordinator in 2000.

4. The only playcaller to survive three years was Bruce Arians (2001-03). He's had that same job for the Steelers since 2007. Brian Dabol (2009-10) and Rob Chudzinski (2007-08) are the only others to survive two full seasons. Terry Robiskie had the job for one full season and 11 games of another. Chudzinski called the plays for the final five games in 2004 when Robiskie became interim head coach after Butch Davis quit. Maurice Carthon called plays for 11/2 seasons and Greg Davidson for half a season.

5. So this really has been a case of the more things change, the more it's the same. New quarterbacks. New coordinators. New systems. The same result -- losing, impatience and more changes. Until a coordinator and a quarterback begin working together with a head coach who has patience and confidence in them, nothing will change.

6. On the defensive side, Dick Jauron is the seventh coordinator. The only one to have the job for more than two years was Todd Grantham (2005-07). So Jauron becomes the fourth defensive coordinator in the past five years. And he is switching the team from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense.

7. Maybe team President Mike Holmgren and owner Randy Lerner have looked at the lists of coordinators and quarterbacks. Let's hope so, and let's hope that with Shurmur and his staff, they have the right guys in the key spots.

ABOUT THE CAVS . . .

1. The Cavs have two picks in the second round -- No. 32 and 54 -- and they should consider Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins at one of those spots. It's impossible to guess where Liggins will fall -- most "experts" have him in the middle or late second round. But the attraction to the junior from Kentucky is that he's 6-6 and a defensive specialist -- something the Cavs desperately need from a wing player.

2. Yes, they also need scoring from the shooting guard/small forward spots. But those players are rare in this draft. You can debate if Derrick Williams is best at small forward or power forward. But after Williams, there is not a single elite prospect at those wing spots. Liggins averaged only 8.6 points, shooting 42 percent (39 percent on 3-pointers) for a Kentucky team loaded with scorers. His job was to defend the opponent's top scorer, and he did it well. At the recent NBA Scouting Combine in Chicago, there was a 3-point shooting drill of 25 shots. Making the most were OSU's Jon Diebler and BYU's Jimmer Fredette with 19. Liggins made 18.

3. There is a lot of pre-draft discussion about the top foreign players, who are so difficult to evaluate. Making it even harder is there are a variety of rules and other issues that prevent these players from working out for NBA teams. Certainly some of them can play -- but there will also be some major busts picked high from this group.

4. Several mock drafts have the Cavs taking center Enes Kanter at No. 4. He certainly is under consideration. At 6-11 and 260 pounds, he does have a powerful inside presence. But he played one year at a prep school. He tried to play at Kentucky, but the NCAA prevented that. He has played in some European tournaments but his body of work is not large. A year ago, he had a monster game in the Hoops Summit, scoring 34 points in competition that included young stars Jared Sullinger, Terrence Jones and Harrison Barnes.

5. Some fans have wondered about Cleveland State's Norris Cole, but he doesn't fit the Cavs, who will be loaded with point guards. Cole makes more sense for other teams. With Duke's Kyrie Irving expected to be the No.1 pick and join current Cavs guards Baron Davis, Ramon Sessions and Daniel Gibson, it's clear the team may trade one of those players.

6. The Cavs were thrilled to see Davis show up Monday to work out and scrimmage with some of the other players. He seems determined to keep his word about getting into the best condition possible for next season.

7. There was a rumor about the Cavs and a deal for Rudy Gay involving draft picks, but I was told there isn't much to it.

Sandy Alomar Jr., who spent 20 years catching in the big leagues, doesn't think San Francisco catcher Buster Posey was injured on a dirty play.

View full sizeMarcio Jose Sanchez l Associated PressGiants catcher Buster Posey will be out for the season, after this gruesome collision at the plate Wednesday night with Marlins base runner Scott Cousins. The play brought some calls for a rule change, but Tribe manager Manny Acta and former catcher Sandy Alomar Jr. disagree.

One vehicle entering an intersection at a high rate of speed with no thought of braking. The other stalled directly in its path. The collision was frightening.

These weren't automobiles, made of metal, plastic and glass. They were baseball players. The intersection they met at was home plate at AT&T Park in San Francisco during the 12th inning Wednesday night.

Florida's Scott Cousins T-boned Giants catcher Buster Posey to score what proved to be the winning run. Posey broke his left fibula and tore three ligaments in his left ankle. He'll need surgery to repair the broken bone and may not play again this season, a big loss for the defending World Series champs.

Replays show Posey giving Cousins a big part of the plate to slide to, but Cousins appears to be bent on contact. Was it a clean play or a cheap shot?

Posey's agent is petitioning MLB to change its rules on collisions at home. Posey in an interview with San Francisco reporters Friday said it was a legal play, but thought Cousins could have slid around him. Giants GM Brian Sabean felt the same and said MLB should consider a rule that requires players to slide into the plate.

Indians first base coach Sandy Alomar Jr. caught for 20 seasons in the big leagues. He went to six All-Star games for the Indians. He bares the scars of his craft.

"The play that Posey was injured on is the worst play in baseball for a catcher," Alomar said. "The ball is coming from right field and the catcher is blind because he can't see the runner."

Alomar saw nothing wrong with the play.

"Posey's toe got caught in the wrong position," Alomar said. "When Cousins' weight got on him, something had to snap. It was a clean play. I didn't see anything dirty about it. Posey was trying to do his job and the runner was trying to score.

"It happened to me all the time. Guys ran me over. Busted my knee. You move on."

Cousins was on third when Emilio Bonifacio hit a fly ball to Nate Schierholtz in shallow right field. Posey, in front of the plate, tried to catch Schierholtz's throw on the bounce, while turning on one knee to tag Cousins. He never caught the ball, but Cousins caught all of him.

"You try to put yourself in a good position, with your knee pointing toward third base so you don't get injured, but the ball dictates everything," Alomar said. "If the ball takes a funny hop, the ball takes your body to where you have to catch it and you get put in harm's way."

No one raised a fuss last year when Boston's Ryan Kalish ended Carlos Santana's season on a collision at the plate. The plays were different because Santana, after taking a throw from right field, turned and blocked the entire plate. Kalish had nowhere to slide but directly into Santana.

Posey clearly gave Cousins a part of the plate. Or did he?

"I'd give guys a part of the plate and then take it away," Alomar said.

Maybe that's why Cousins chose to barge into Posey.

"If that kid doesn't score on that play, his teammates are going to be telling him, 'Why didn't you run the catcher over?' " Indians third base coach Steve Smith said. "The plate [and first base] are the only bases you can run by and still be safe. That's why you don't see third basemen getting smoked."

Manager Manny Acta was sorry Posey was injured, but doesn't think the rules should be changed.

"Guys have been breaking their fingers sliding into [catchers] full of equipment their whole careers," Acta said. "They didn't change the game for them."

Acta points to the Internet and 24/7 news cycles for talk of changing rules.

"If this happened when there were just newspapers, and you read about it in the morning, and you guys didn't have so much work to do, no one would bring this up," he said. "Roy Campanella caught and so did Yogi Berra and so did Johnny Bench and Carlton Fisk and no one ever talked about changing the rules."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: phoynes@plaind.com, 216-999-5158

Santana didn't let last year's knee injury deter him from getting back behind the plate.

View full sizeAP

Q: Last Saturday night against the Reds at Progressive Field, you were hit hard in the facemask with a foul tip. How badly were you hurt?

A: "I think I almost got knocked out. The trainer said, 'Are you OK? Can you continue to play?' I said, 'Yes, I want to help my team win.'

"It's not the first time it's happened. Guys who catch get hit in the mouth, the arm and the body with foul tips. I wear a mouth guard sometimes and it helps a lot, but I wasn't using it Saturday night."

Q: Did you always want to be a catcher?

A: "No, I signed with the Dodgers as a third baseman when I was 17. The first team that looked at me was the Cleveland Indians. They told me they wanted to sign me, but they waited. That same week I went to the Dodgers for a tryout and they signed me.

"I'm very excited to be back with the Indians. When I was younger, my favorite team on PlayStation was the Cleveland Indians. I loved that team with Robbie Alomar, Omar Vizquel and Sandy Alomar behind the plate."

Q: Tell me about your family.

A: "I have two brothers and five sisters. My father, Rafael, played baseball, but not professionally. He's in the military in the Dominican Republic. My mother, Nores, is a psychologist."

Q: What kind of bat do you use?

A: "I've used the same bat all my life. It's a Louisville Slugger, 31 to 32 ounces and 33 1/3 to 34 inches long."

Q: When you injured your knee in Boston last year, were you ever afraid to come back and catch again?

A: "Some people thought I'd have fear when I came back. All I knew is that I was coming back. I didn't know if it would be late or early, but one day I was coming back."

What are the Rays doing 1 1/2 games out of first place in the AL East after 50 games with the second-lowest payroll in the big leagues?

View full sizeAPRays manager Joe Maddon.

It's the end of May and the Indians have received much applause for their unexpected rise to the top of the AL Central. They deserve it, but the Rays have been just as big a surprise in the AL East.

Tampa Bay won 96 games last season to snatch the division from megapowers New York and Boston for the second time in three years. During the off-season, the number of key players that migrated out of Tropicana Field as free agents could have been filmed by National Geographic. The Rays were cutting payroll and the prospects for 2011 did not look good.

They lost relievers Rafael Soriano, Grant Balfour, Dan Wheeler, Joaquin Benoit, Chad Qualls and Randy Choate to free agency. Not to mention core position players Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena. Starting pitcher Matt Garza was traded.

So what are they doing 1 1/2 games out of first place in the AL East after 50 games with the second-lowest payroll ($41.1 million) in the big leagues? It says much about the talent in the organization and their ability to draft and develop players.

It was speculated the Rays' window of opportunity was closing. They've kept it propped open, offering hope to small and midmarket teams.

Scott Dixon took the lead on the first lap of the race, but Alex Tagliani, who fell back to third, is back in first by lap 7. The hard-charger early on is John Andretti, who started at 17 but was up to 10th place by the sixth lap, before falling back to 13th.

Jeff Robertson, Associated PressProfessional stunt driver Tanner Foust flies through the air on the way to setting a new world record by jumping 332 feet in a Pro 2 truck at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway before the Indianapolis 500 auto race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, today.

INDIANAPOLIS — Tanner Foust set a new world record by jumping 332 feet in a Pro 2 truck Sunday at the Indianapolis 500.

Foust is a professional stunt driver whose identity was kept secret until after the stunt was completed.

He rolled down a bright orange ramp replicating the Hot Wheels' V-Drop.

The stunt took place in the fourth turn of the 2.5-mile oval track. Foust broke Johnny Greaves' previous world mark of 301 feet for a four-wheel vehicle.

The 37-year-old Foust and others spent months practicing the jump.

It was just the beginning of the excitement today, race day. By 7:30 a.m., the temperature was already up to 72 degrees at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Drivers were sent to their cars at 11:59 a.m. Singer and actor Jim Nabors, sang the traditional "Back Home in Indiana" at 12:08, then came the familiar, "Gentlemen, start your engines" at 12:10. It was time go racing before 350,000 fans, with Alex Tagliani on the pole at 227.472 mph.

Scott Dixon took the lead on the first lap, but Tagliani, who fell back to third, is back in first by lap 7. The hard-charger early on is John Andretti, who started at 17 but was up to 10th place by the sixth lap, before falling back to 13th. No cautions through the early laps make for a fast start, with an average lap speed of 220.445 mph.

The 34-year-old Japanese driver was running in the middle of the 33-car field when his No. 5 KV Racing Technology-Lotus went high and brushed the wall. He was not injured, but his car sustained significant damage to the right side.

View full sizeAPIndyCar driver Takuma Sato, of Japan, signs autographs for fans at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis on Saturday.

The 34-year-old Japanese driver was running in the middle of the 33-car field when his No. 5 KV Racing Technology-Lotus went high and brushed the wall. He was not injured, but his car sustained significant damage to the right side.

Driver Will Power, who qualified fifth, ended up doing a lap with just three wheels after he exited a pit stop too soon, sending his left rear tire rolling down pit road as he pulled away.

Pole-sitter Alex Tagliani and Scott Dixon, who qualified second, dominated the early portion of the 200-lap race.

Scott Dixon took the lead on the first lap, but Tagliani, who fell back to third, is back in first by lap 7. The hard-charger early on is John Andretti, who started at 17 but was up to 10th place by the sixth lap, before falling back to 13th. No cautions through the early laps make for a fast start, with an average lap speed of 220.445 mph.

Several cars make contact exiting the pits following service, but series points leader Will Power was in the most trouble as his left rear tire came off and rolled through several pit boxes, forcing Power to tour the track on three wheels and return to the pits for new rubber, still under yellow.

Paul Sancya, Associated PressIndyCar driver Scott Dixon, of New Zealand, leads pole-sitter Alex Tagliani, of Canada, as they head to the first turn at the start of the Indianapolis 500 auto race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis today.

The Indians aren't running the bases like their hair is on fire, but they are aggressive.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Manager Manny Acta has loosed hounds this season. He wants the Indians to run the bases aggressively. With that aggression comes mistakes, a few of which happened in Saturday's 7-3 victory over Tampa Bay at Tropicana Field.

In the first inning, Asdrubal Cabrera was picked off third base after an RBI triple. Later in the inning, Travis Buck was doubled off first base after he took off on a pitch that Carlos Santana turned into a sacrifice fly.

In a four-run eighth inning, confusion reigned on Shelley Duncan's bases-loaded single. Michael Brantley scored from third, but Asdrubal Cabrera went back to second when it looked like the ball might be caught at the left field wall before turning on the jets to score. When Cabrera went back to second to tag up, Shin-Soo-Choo went back to tag at first base, but in the process Duncan had to pull up as he rounded first for fear of passing Choo.

"You have to take the good with the bad," said Acta. "We've done a very good job running the bases. You're going to go through some stretches where guys aren't going to make the best decisions.

"You talk to them. Get them to focus on baserunning and go for it."

As for managing his players mistkaes on the bases, Acta said, "Yes, some of it comes from being more aggressive on the bases. But also there are guys who are naturally good baserunners and there are some other guys who need more experience. Especially when you're asking them to do things they probably haven't done in the past.

"On the other hand we do have 31 wins."

Today's lineups:

Indians (31-18): CF Michael Brantley (L), SS Asdrubal Cabrera (S), RF Shin-Soo Choo, LF Travis Buck (L), 1B Carlos Santana (S), DH Grady Sizemore (L), 2B Orlando Cabrera (R), C Lou Marson (R), 3B Adam Everett (R), RHP Justin Masterson (5-2, 2.50)

Rays (27-24): 3B Evan Longoria (R), DH Johnny Damon (L), 2B Ben Zobrist (S), RF Matt Joyce (L), 1B Casey Kotchman (L), B.J. Upton (R), LF Sam Fuld (L), C John Jaso (L), SS Reid Brignac (L), RHP James Shields (5-2, 2.00).

Him vs. me: Upton is hitting .455 (5-for-11) with a homer and three RBI vs. Masterson. Buck is the only Indians Hellickson has faced. Buck is 0-3 against him.

Left vs. right: Lefties are hitting .302 (45-for-149) with two homers and righties are hitting .144 (14-for-97) against Masterson.

Lefties are hitting .245 (24-for-98) with three homers and righties are hitting .191 (22-for-115) with two homers against Hellickson.

Umpires: H Tony Randazzo, 1B Dan Bellino, 2B Larry Vanover, 3B Brian Gorman. Gorman, crew chief.

Quote of the day: "I saw a lot of good hitters but I never saw a better one than Paul Waner. I mean I once threw a side arm spitter right into his belly and he hit it into the upper deck," spit-ball pitcher Burleigh Grimes to the The Sporting News, April 20, 1955.

Next: Indians open three-game series against Toronto on Monday. RHP Fausto Carmona (3-5, 4.73) vs. LHP Jo-Jo Reyes (0-4, 4.70) Monday night. STO and WTAM/1100 will carry the game.

On the track, several drivers were making some serious moves, including Columbus native Graham Rahal, who at one point moved from 29th to eighth; Marco Andretti who moved from 27th to 10th, and Danica Patrick, who moved from 25th to 15th.

Paul Sancya, Associated PressThe 33-car field, led by IndyCar driver Scott Dixon, of New Zealand, heads to the first turn at the start the Indianapolis 500 auto race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis today.

With light fuel loads, TK had little trouble passing in traffic, so interestingly on lap 137, during a roatation of hit pit stops, he pit and only took on limited fuel.

View full sizeAPMarco Andretti, left, is congratulated by a former teammate, Tony Kanaan, of Brazil, after Andretti qualified on the final day of qualifications for the Indianapolis 500 auto race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis on May 22.

Justin Masterson gives up two runs in the third inning.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The Rays, for the second time in three games, shut out the Indians on the way to a 7-0 victory Sunday at Tropicana Field.

In Friday's series opener, left-hander David Price and two relievers combined on a four-hitter in a 5-0 victory. Right-hander Jeremy Hellickson did the heavy lifting Sunday, holding the Indians scoreless for seven innings. Relievers Adam Russell and Cesar Ramos each worked a scoreless inning to complete the a five-hitter.

It's the fourth time the Indians have been shutout this season and the third time in the last 11 games.    

The Rays took the measure of Justin Masterson early and often. Masterson (5-3, 3.07)
entered the game with a 1-5 lifetime record against the Rays, including a loss on May 12 at Progressive Field, and it showed.

The Rays turned a 4-0 lead into a 7-0 advantage with three runs in the fifth. Evan Longoria opened with a double and went to third on Johnny Damon's single. Ben Zobrist scored Longoria with a ground out to first. When Masterson retired Matt Joyce on a fly ball to right it looked like he'd get out of the inning without incident.

Masterson, however, walked Sean Rodriguez and B.J. Upton to load the bases. In his first six at-bats of this series, Upton struck out. Masterson walked him three straight times Sunday.

Sam Fuld followed with a chopper to the middle of the infield. Shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera fielded the ball and threw on the run to first. The ball tipped off Carlos Santana's glove as Damon and Kotchman scored. The play was ruled an single and RBI for Fuld and an error for Cabrera.

Masterson allowed seven runs, six earned, on eight hits in five innings. He walked five and did not strikeout a batter for the second time in 11 starts. After winning his first five starts of the season, Masterson is 0-3 in six starts.

The Rays took a 2-0 lead in the third. After Reid Brignac reached on a bouncing single over the mound with one out, Masterson walked Longoria. Damon singled down the right field line to score Brignac and send Longoria to third.

Longoria scored on catcher Lou Marson's passed ball.

The Indians were facing Hellickson (6-3, 2.80) for the first time and couldn't do much with him. Asdrubal Cabrera doubled off first baseman Casey Kotchman's glove and Shin-Soo Choo walked with one out in the first. The rally deflated quickly when Travis Buck hit into an inning-ending 4-6-3 double play.

Hellickson allowed just two more hits. He struck out six and walked two in 95 pitches.

Choo recorded his seventh assist when he threw out Kotchman in the fourth when he tried to stretch a single into a double. Kotchman left the game with an ankle injury.

His finish came amid shrapnel and heartache for rookie JR Hildebrand who crashed in turn four a short straightaway from victory.

Associated PressIndyCar drivers Dan Wheldon, left, of England, and Scott Dixon, of New Zealand, walk in the pit area on the final day of practice for the Indianapolis 500 on Friday. Wheldon won the race today.

Westwood entered BMW PGA Championship at No. 1, but it was Donald's approach shot on No. 18 -- the first playoff hole -- that will send him to the top when new golf rankings are released Monday.

Associated PressLuke Donald acknowledges the crowd as he walks onto the 18th green during today's final round of the BMW PGA Championship.

VIRGINIA WATER, England -- Luke Donald won a duel for No. 1 with a playoff victory over fellow-Englishman Lee Westwood.

Westwood entered the BMW PGA Championship at No. 1, but it was Donald's approach shot on No. 18 -- the first playoff hole -- that will send him to the top when the new golf rankings are released Monday.

While Donald's approach landed a few feet from the hole Sunday, Westwood sent his shot into a water hazard in the tournament at Wentworth. And just like that, Donald was a winner and No. 1 in the world.

"Sounds pretty good, doesn't it?" asked Donald, who joins Westwood and Nick Faldo as the only Englishmen to hold the No. 1 spot since rankings were introduced in 1986. "It's an amazing accomplishment. It's something I will be very proud of when I look back. I will savor this moment, it's very special. I think I will stay the same person, I hope I do."

The win was only the second in stroke play for Donald in the past five years. He won the Madrid Masters on the European Tour last year. In February, he beat a top field in winning the Match Play Championships in Marana, Ariz.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of staying No. 1," Donald said. "I know Lee and Martin (Kaymer) will be chasing me very hard."

Having trailed co-leaders Matteo Manassero and Donald by two strokes entering the final round, Westwood shot a 3-under 68. Donald shot 70 and both finished at 6-under 278.

Simon Dyson of England (69) finished third at 280, with Marcus Fraser of Australia, Raphael Jacquelin of France and Shane Lowry of Ireland another shot back with 281s.

Donald missed two previous chances to become No. 1, losing to Ian Poulter in the World Match Play final last week in Spain and falling to Brandt Snedeker in a playoff at The Heritage in April.

But his consistency in finishing in the top 10 for the past nine tournaments ensured his first playoff victory on either the European or PGA Tour will give him the No. 1 ranking.

Donald said Westwood's water-bound approach in the playoff was more bad luck than poor execution.

"It wasn't a bad shot, just had a little bit too much spin on it. It was just unfortunate, you don't like to see that," Donald said. "Lee is a champion and has been a great No. 1 for European golf."

After rounds of 72 and 72, Donald began the final day by going bogey-bogey, visibly blanching after duffing his chip at the par-3 No. 2 from just off the green.

Manassaero double-bogeyed No. 3 after needing two shots to reach the green from an adjacent bunker. Donald birdied the next hole to draw even.

Westwood, however, made four birdies in nine holes after a bogey on No. 3 to sit on top of the leaderboard.

Another birdie on the difficult No. 15 green was made possible by one of the shots of the tournament. Having missed the fairway with his driver and receiving a free drop, Westwood carved a 7-iron with draw that rolled within 4 feet of the hole, the putt moving him two strokes ahead of Donald.

That lead evaporated at No. 16.

Westwood three-putted after having dropped his club in his follow through from the tee. Donald, in the next group, landed his approach within a foot of the hole -- and the top two players in the world were even again.

Down the stretch, Donald and Westwood mixed the substandard with the sublime.

Donald's birdie putt lipped out on No. 17 after a brilliant rescue shot from an approach that hit a tree. He landed his tee shot into the bunker at No. 18, not long after Westwood had sent his 5-wood into the gallery.

Both players made par and headed back to No. 18 for the playoff that would result in a new No. 1.

Buss, son of Lakers owner Jerry Buss, also says team should have contacted Kobe Bryant about the hiring. Reporter asks Jim Buss: "If Brown couldn't control LeBron James on offense, how is he going to do so with Kobe?"

Scott Shaw, The Plain DealerFormer Cavaliers coach Mike Brown was hired by the Lakers as their new coach, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from LA fans and media.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- We would be inclined to say "poor Mike Brown" if not for the fact that he has been and will again be well compensated.

Brown coached the Cleveland Cavaliers to the NBA playoffs in all five of his seasons as the team's coach, winning at least one series each year and highlighted by the run to the Finals in 2007 -- albeit being swept by the San Antonio Spurs.

Now, after a year off that followed his firing by the Cavs a year ago, Brown has been hired by the Los Angeles Lakers -- the 2009 and 2010 champions -- to coach them in the aftermath of Phil Jackson's retirement.

That all sounds good. The "poor Mike" inclination is because after five years of dealing with, arguably, the game's biggest ego, LeBron James, Brown will have to work with another player who holds himself in quite high regard, Kobe Bryant.

The difference between Bryant and James, of course, is infinity, as in five championships to none. James' Miami Heat teammates' can help him reduce that title-deficit to four when they play the Dallas Mavericks in the championship series that begins on Tuesday night.

Brown encounters a different fan base with the Lakers than with the Cavs. While Cleveland fans are patient, charitable in their estimations of people and thrilled with any degree of success, the Tinsel Town crowd expects flash, universal adulation and titles.

And while Brown took over for Paul Silas (and interim coach Brendan Malone) in Cleveland, he replaces the 11-time champion Jackson in LA.

Brown's hiring has not been greeted with overwhelming acclaim from Lakers fans and media.

LA executive Jim Buss, the son of owner Jerry Buss, sat down and talked with Los Angeles Times reporter T.J. Simers about Brown's hiring, Bryant and other Lakers' matters -- with mention of the Brown-James Cavs' era, too.

Simers writes:

Not too many happy campers in Lakers Land these days, so much criticism that shortly before sitting down, he put a call into new Coach Mike Brown to apologize.

"I'm surprised by the reaction to Mike's hiring," he says. "I wish people heard him speak. Let him show you what he showed us.

"I wanted him to know they are picking on me, which explains why they are picking on him. But it's a reflection on me, not him. He hasn't done anything wrong."

As for Bryant, he supposedly favored the hiring of former teammate and Lakers' assistant coach Brian Shaw as Jackson's replacement. The Lakers say they interviewed Shaw and Rick Adelman besides Brown.

According to an ESPN.com report, sources say "that Bryant has great respect for Brown and is on board with the hiring, despite not being consulted about the choice."

Simers writes in his Los Angeles Times story, quoting Jim Buss:  

"Looking back on it, we should have contacted Kobe," Buss says. "Kobe said it was management's job to pick a coach. He just said, 'Defense first.' That's what we were doing, but we should have reached out to him."

How will Kobe take to Brown?

"The way Mike impressed the three of us, I would think Kobe would be impressed as well," he says. "Mike is a workaholic and Kobe is the workaholic."

If Brown couldn't control LeBron James on offense, how is he going to do so with Kobe?

"I've seen Kobe go off the place a few times, but I'm sure the coach will know how to handle it," Buss says. "My dad loves Kobe and so do I; we think he has a lot left. And I know Mike has some ideas on how to elongate Kobe's career."

Djokovic's win streak is third longest since Open era began in 1968. Federer's Grand Slam quarterfinals streak is a record.

Associated PressNovak Djokovic celebrates his fourth-round win over Richard Gasquet at the French Open.

PARIS, France -- His 43rd consecutive victory complete, Novak Djokovic ripped off his white baseball cap, pivoted to look up at his parents, coach and other supporters in the stands, then let out a yell.

It was the sort of visceral reaction one might expect at the conclusion of a taut, tense contest, not the rather routine 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 result the second-seeded Djokovic assembled Sunday at the expense of No. 13 Richard Gasquet in the fourth round of the French Open.

"I didn't expect it to be easy, that's for sure," said Serbia's Djokovic, who briefly addressed the crowd in French, drawing laughter and cheers. "Maybe the scoreline says differently, but I really ... had to work."

Each match carries extra meaning these days for Djokovic, whose winning streak began with two Davis Cup victories in December and is the third longest since the Open era began in 1968. Now 41-0 in 2011, he's one win shy of John McEnroe's mark of 42-0 in 1984.

"As soon as he hits a return, he grabs you by the throat," said France's Gasquet, a former top-10 player and 2007 Wimbledon semifinalist who was supported by a partisan crowd Sunday. "To beat him, you need to produce the perfect match and not make any mistakes."

Roger Federer's opponents over the years know that feeling, too. The 16-time major champion moved a step closer to a semifinal showdown against Djokovic by overwhelming No. 14 Stanislas Wawrinka 6-3, 6-2, 7-5, reaching the quarterfinals at a record 28th Grand Slam tournament in a row.

Federer next faces No. 7 David Ferrer of Spain or No. 9 Gael Monfils of France, whose fourth-round match was suspended in the fourth set because of darkness. Djokovic meets 49th-ranked Fabio Fognini of Italy, who set aside a left thigh injury that left him immobile and erased five match points to beat Albert Montanes of Spain 11-9 in the fifth set.

"I have to be honest. I didn't think I could win the match," Fognini said. "I couldn't move. I couldn't serve."

Djokovic saluted Fognini in Italian via Twitter, writing about his pal's "big victory" and "mental strength."

While the elite men are still around — on Monday, No. 1 Rafael Nadal, No. 4 Andy Murray and No. 5 Robin Soderling try to join Djokovic and No. 3 Federer in the quarterfinals — chaos continues in the women's draw.

No. 3 Vera Zvonareva, runner-up at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year, lost the last five games and was defeated 7-6 (4), 2-6, 6-2 by No. 14 Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia. Zvonareva's exit followed those of No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki in the third round, and No. 2 Kim Clijsters in the second, making this the first French Open — and only third Grand Slam tournament — in the Open era with none of the top three seeded women in the quarterfinals.

The past two French Open champions remain, though: 2010's Francesca Schiavone got past 10th-seeded Jelena Jankovic 6-3, 2-6, 6-4; and 2009's Svetlanta Kuznetsova was a 6-7 (3), 6-3, 6-2 winner against No. 28 Daniela Hantuchova, who eliminated Clijsters.

There is no dominant figure at the moment in the women's game, in part because Serena Williams has been off the tour for nearly a year because of a series of health problems, and Justine Henin is retired.

"Everyone is (saying) that we don't really have a leader right now in (women's) tennis, because, it's, like, up and down, I mean, in terms of results," said Pavlyuchenkova, a 19-year-old never before past the fourth round at a major tournament. "It's not like No. 1, or top five, are winning, like in (men's) tennis."

Indeed, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic have won 23 of the past 24 Grand Slam titles.

Djokovic's contribution to that total came at the 2008 and 2011 Australian Opens. He's long been known for his sublime two-handed backhand, service returns and movement on court. Lately, he's improved his serve and fitness (the last thanks to a gluten-free diet he refuses to discuss in any detail).

He's only lost serve twice through four matches at Roland Garros, and against Gasquet saved all three break points. Djokovic also broke Gasquet four times and hit more than twice as many winners, 34-16.

"He plays fast. He hits the ball really early. His return is colossal," Gasquet said. "He's got no weakness."

Prodded at his news conference to name an aspect of his game he'd like to improve for the tournament's second week, Djokovic said he's pleased with his current level and hopes to be able to maintain it.

After improving to 9-1 against Wawrinka, his doubles partner when they won a gold medal for Switzerland at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Federer was asked about whether he — or, say, Djokovic — ever feels unbeatable.

"You'll definitely feel invincible at times, like with certain players who you have a great record against. ... We definitely go into the match thinking, geez, something really crazy has to happen today (for me to) lose," said Federer, whose record run of 23 straight major semifinals ended at last year's French Open.

"The trickier part," he added, "is, all of a sudden, you think, 'I'm winning so much, eventually it's going to snap that streak.' That was the trickier part for me; when everybody started to talk about it, the more there was talk, the more likely it was going to happen. It's kind of tough to keep your head down and just focus, really."

The 24-year-old Djokovic appears to have mastered just that, even with so much attention and pressure on him each time he steps on court.

The Rays shut out the Indians for the second time in the three-game series on Sunday with a 7-0 victory.

Mike Carlson / Associated PressThe Tribe's Justin Masterson had his worst start of the season Sunday, allowing seven runs in five innings as the Tribe lost the series finale to the Tampa Bay Rays, 7-0.

St. Petersburg, Fla. -- For the first time this season Justin Masterson experienced the worst of both worlds. He had trouble getting lefties and righties out.

Lefties were hitting .302 (45-for-149) and righties .144 (14-for-97) against Masterson at the start of Sunday's game against Tampa Bay. When the Rays concluded a 7-0 victory over the Indians, their lefties were 6-for-19 (.563) and righties 2-for-2 (1.000) with five walks against Masterson.

"It looked like all my pitches were pretty much going wherever they wanted to," said Masterson. "I had a tough time controlling the strike zone and they took advantage of it."

The Rays, who shut out the Indians for the second time in three games on a combined five-hitter by Jeremy Hellickson and relievers Adam Russell and Cesar Ramos, did a number on Masterson (5-3, 3.07). He lasted five innings, his shortest start of the season, while allowing a season-high seven runs.

"The ball was here, there and everywhere. It happens," said Masterson. "We'll get back next time to do what we were doing before -- slicing and dicing."

Masterson, after winning his first five starts, has not won since April 26. He's 0-3 with a 3.79 ERA in his past six starts.

"He's only had one shaky outing in his last six starts, and that was this one," said manager Manny Acta. "You can't judge guys on wins and losses. It's a team effort. If these guys go seven innings and don't win the ballgame, it doesn't mean they're struggling."

The Indians still have the best record in the AL at 31-19, but they're being tested. They're 11-11 in their past 22 games, while facing the best pitching the opposition can throw their way. They've faced David Price (twice), Jon Lester, Josh Beckett, Trevor Cahill, James Shields, Jake Peavy and Gavin Floyd in those 22 games.

It shows in their run production. They've scored three or fewer runs in half of those 22 games. That includes being shut out three times in the last in the past 11 games.

"We're just a little bit off right now," said Adam Everett, who started at third base Sunday. "It seems like we're facing the other team's No. 1 and No. 2 starter in every series. That's just the way it's happening.

"We're hanging in there. We're a good team. We just need a couple of breaks."

Hellickson (6-3, 2.80), following Price and Shields in the weekend series, offered the Indians little in the way of comfort. He held them to three hits over seven innings, striking out six and walking two in his first start against the Indians.

Asdrubal Cabrera singled and Shin-Soo Choo walked in the first inning, but the potential rally ended when Travis Buck hit into a double play. That was the best the Indians could muster against Hellickson.

"He reminds me of Josh Tomlin," said Everett. "He's not going to overpower you, but he was in and out with his fastball. He was in and out with his change-up and then he threw his curveball close to the zone for a strike a lot of times."

Tampa Bay used a three-run fifth to take a 7-0 lead. Evan Longoria opened with a double and went to third on Johnny Damon's single. Ben Zobrist scored Longoria with a ground-out to first. When Masterson retired Matt Joyce on a fly ball to right, it looked as if he'd get out of the inning without incident.

Masterson, however, walked Sean Rodriguez and B.J. Upton to load the bases. In his first six at-bats of this series, Upton struck out. Masterson walked him three straight times Sunday.

Sam Fuld followed with a chopper to the middle of the infield. Shortstop Cabrera fielded the ball and threw on the run to first. The ball tipped off Carlos Santana's glove as Damon and Kotchman scored. The play was ruled an single and RBI for Fuld and an error for Cabrera.

The Rays took a 2-0 lead in the third. After Reid Brignac reached on a bouncing single over the mound with one out, Masterson walked Longoria. Damon singled down the right-field line to score Brignac and send Longoria to third.

Longoria scored on catcher Lou Marson's passed ball.

Bradley sank 2-foot par putt at 419-yard 18th hole in the playoff. Palmer's approach went into water and he made a bogey with a 13-foot putt.

Associated PressKeegan Bradley after sinking the winning putt on the first playoff hole at the Byron Nelson Championship.

IRVING, Texas -- Keegan Bradley won the Byron Nelson Championship for his first PGA Tour victory, parring the first hole of a playoff with Ryan Palmer on Sunday.

Bradley, the nephew of LPGA Tour great Pat Bradley, sank a 2-foot par putt at the 419-yard 18th hole in the playoff. Palmer's approach went into the water and he made a bogey with a 13-foot putt.

About an hour earlier, Bradley finished his closing round of 2-under 68 with a par at No. 18, dropping into a squat and hopping a few times in frustration when his 10-foot birdie chance slid by the hole.

Palmer (72) and Bradley finished at 3-under 277, the highest winning score on the PGA Tour this year. It was the fifth playoff in six weeks.

"I don't know what to say. I'm so happy, I can't believe this just happened," Bradley said. "This is a dream come true. I've waited for this my whole life."

The PGA Tour rookie's aunt won 31 tournaments, including six majors. The first victory for the Vermont native who played at St. John's came nine days before his 25th birthday.

On the 172-yard 17th hole, Bradley sank a 12 1/2-foot par-saving putt and responded with an emphatic fist pump. After Bradley tapped in his par putt at No. 18, third-round leader Palmer was in one of the five groups still playing.

Bradley then sat for a few minutes before going to the practice range to prepare for a playoff that almost wasn't necessary for him to become the PGA Tour's sixth first-time winning this season.

Ryuji Imada (71) and Joe Ogilvie (70) finished a stroke back at 2 under. Imada bogeyed three of his last four holes after getting to 5 under.

Defending Nelson champion Jason Day (67) was fifth at 1 under. Only five players finished under par this week at TPC Four Seasons. There were brutal scoring conditions the last three days, particularly for both weekend rounds when the wind was sustained at 25 mph with gusts howling near 40.

It was the highest finishing score for the Nelson since the tournament moved to its current location in 1983.

After Palmer blasted from a greenside bunker to 3 feet for a birdie at the 523-yard 16th hole to get back to 3 under, he gave that stroke right back when he missed a 7-foot par putt at No. 17.

Palmer forced the playoff with a 6-foot birdie putt at No. 18, where there was only one other birdie all day. When the putt dropped, Palmer punched his right fist in the air and then raised both arms over his head.

Bradley and Palmer then played No. 18 again, both going way right with their tee shots to start the playoff.

Tournament volunteers quickly dismantled and moved a temporary lemonade stand to give Bradley a line of sight to the green and avoid the necessity for a drop.

Bradley's approach was dangerously close to sliding off the side of the green into the water, but stayed up. Palmer went in the same direction but his ball didn't stay dry.

Imada was 5 under after his 11-foot birdie putt trickled in at the 170-yard 13th, then blasted out of a greenside bunker to inside a foot at 14th to save par. He missed a 3-foot par chance at No. 17 and then was unable to save par again out of a bunker on the closing hole.

Sergio Garcia, the 2004 Nelson champion who hasn't won since 2008 and hasn't locked up a spot this year in the U.S. Open and British Open, began the day one stroke off the lead and in the final group.

Garcia missed a 4-foot par putt on the opening hole, then slammed his putter down on his bag walking off after his bogey putt. Things only got worse from there on way to a closing 77. He had a double bogey at the par-4 fourth hole after needing four shots to go the final 12 feet — his first chip rolled back to his feet and he ended with a double bogey.

Day, the runner-up at this year's Masters, had his fourth top-10 finish in his last five tournaments.

After a bogey-free front nine with three birdies to get to 1 under for the tournament, Day was even par over a seven-hole stretch without a par on any of the holes. His birdie at No. 10 got him to 2 under before consecutive bogeys, a birdie, a double bogey and then consecutive birdies.

Teenage amateur Jordan Spieth had a rough finish. The 17-year-old player closed with two double bogeys and two bogeys for a 7-over 77 to finish at 6 over — 10 strokes higher than he shot last year at TPC Four Seasons.