President Barack Obama and House Speaker John Boehner put partisanship aside, at least on the golf course, and teamed up to triumph on the final hole Saturday in their long-awaited links outing.

WASHINGTON  — President Barack Obama and House Speaker John Boehner put partisanship aside, at least on the golf course, and teamed up to triumph on the final hole Saturday in their long-awaited links outing.

The match pitted the political rivals against Vice President Joe Biden and Ohio's Republican Gov. John Kasich. The match was won on the 18th hole, with the winning partners each pocketing a $2 prize.

The question now is whether a partnership forged on the tees, fairways and greens of a military base course can yield success in the policy arena. Obama and Boehner find themselves on opposite sides of everything from deficit reduction to the military campaign in Libya.

Aides to both men played down the chances of deals being struck on the par-72 East Course at Joint Base Andrews, but acknowledged the outing could improve a relationship that is respectful, but hardly close.

Tee time for the foursome was 9:30 a.m. at Obama's home course at the base outside Washington.

The White House made a rare exception and allowed the press to watch Obama and his playing partners finish the first hole, a par 5.

Biden was cool under pressure, sinking a 15- to 20-foot putt.

"Did you all catch that?" Obama shouted to reporters gathered near the green.

The president, dressed in dark pants, a white polo shirt and a baseball cap, putted for par, tapping in a short shot after missing a 12-footer.

Kasich, a former congressman, missed a 30-footer, then tapped in for par. Boehner, one of the best golfers in Congress, gave a hearty "Oh yeah!" after draining a short putt.

Obama, who is not in Boehner's links league, patted the speaker on the back as they headed toward the second hole, the president driving their cart.

After wrapping up the match, the foursome headed to the clubhouse, where they had a cold drink and talked with service members. They also caught some action at the U.S. Open, the professional tournament going on in suburban Maryland.

While Obama is an avid golfer, he rarely plays with anyone outside of his small cadre of close aides. His rounds run long, usually well over five hours, and those close to the president say he revels in the chance to get out of the spotlight.

Obama's penchant for privacy extends to his social life. He surrounds himself with a tight inner circle of family and friends, and rarely socializing with other politicians in Washington. In fact, Saturday's golf outing was one of the first time Obama and Boehner have gotten together for anything other than a policy meeting.

White House spokesman Jay Carney said earlier in the week that the outing was "meant to be an opportunity for the speaker and the president, as well as the vice president and Ohio governor, to have a conversation, to socialize in a way that so rarely happens in Washington."

The Obama-Boehner golf outing coincided with White House and congressional negotiations on a long-term deficit reduction plan and raising the government's borrowing authority. Republicans have insisted on significant cuts of about $2 trillion over 10 years or 12 years before agreeing to increase the current $14.3 debt ceiling, which the government says it will surpass Aug. 2.

While aides for both men tried to lower expectations that deal on the deficit — or anything else, for that matter — would be reached on the course. But it couldn't hurt.

"It may move you a little bit closer toward the kind of compromise that we need to get the things done that the American people expect us to get done," Carney said. "If it takes a few hours out on the golf course to help that process, I think it's a worthwhile thing to do."

An appreciation of Jim Tressel, along with a guess at how he will eventually be remembered.

View full sizeMarvin Fong / The Plain DealerIn 2006, Jim Tressel reflected his Cleveland roots as he coached Buckeye standouts Troy Smith (10) and Ted Ginn, Jr. (7), both former Glenville stars, as Ohio State made another run at a national championship.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Jim Tressel stood before a microphone at Kinnick Stadium last November, in no mood to hear about winning ugly.

After fielding several questions about Ohio State's sputtering offense in a narrow victory over Iowa, the Buckeyes' coach said, "Before you put quill to paper, think about how tough that Iowa defense was that we faced."

Taking umbrage at Tressel's little jibes was a cottage industry for a few reporters, but some of us felt that one was pretty funny. "And me without my parchment," one guy said.

Hypocrisy is most reporters' favorite flaw in public officials, though, and so Tressel's lies in the cover-up of the memorabilia scandal came back to haunt him. Particularly damning was one remark he made in the first news conference devoted to it last December. Before the cover-up was exposed, Tressel said his players had ignored the "moral sensor" everyone has that should have told them right from wrong.

Cited even more frequently was the pretentious title of one of his books, "Life Promises for Success: Promises from God on Achieving Your Best."

A truer picture of Tressel is that of a man who for a decade fully inhabited the narrative of this state's pride, who embodied the aspirations of fans in this city, and who did more than anyone else to fulfill them.

It has been nearly three weeks since Tressel resigned under fire on Memorial Day, a holiday close to his heart because of his deep patriotism. It is still hard to believe that such a compelling, almost uplifting, story ended so badly.

Tressel was an underdog when former OSU athletic director Andy Geiger plucked him from the relative obscurity of Youngstown State in Division 1-AA. It was a choice some, including me, felt was beneath Ohio State. The "quill" I used for that column should have been dipped in invisible ink.

Once at Ohio State, Tressel began to beat Michigan like a tom-tom. His second team won the national championship in double overtime in 2002 as a 13-point underdog against a Miami Hurricanes team that had won 34 straight games.

That game resonated with the fans of Cleveland, in the suburbs of which Tressel had been born and raised. The last Cleveland championship team, the 1964 Browns, had been big underdogs against Johnny Unitas and the Baltimore Colts. Afterward, talented divas like Kellen Winslow, Braylon Edwards and, especially, LeBron James came to be reviled as swaggering underachievers. Afterward, the Browns, Indians and Cavaliers mostly struggled. Only Tressel's gritty Buckeyes came through.

Tressel identified closely with Cleveland fans because he was one of them. As the son of Baldwin-Wallace's great coach Lee Tressel, he attended Browns games with the complimentary tickets given in that era to area college coaches and their families.

He held the football as a boy when his neighbor Lou "The Toe" Groza practiced field goals in a park.

On the day after the Tribe won the 2007 American League Central Division championship, Tressel wore an Indians jersey to work in the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the better to razz Minnesota Twins fan and OSU linebacker James Laurinaitis.

Less obvious was the value Tressel placed on sportswriters. In many ways, he considered us adversaries. But in a small measure, he identified with us.

Tressel had a Plain Dealer paper route as a boy. He was a quarterback for his father at B-W, where he wrote a column for the school newspaper called "J.T.'s Grapevine." At Ohio State, he did not try to dictate the stories we wrote, but he certainly was aware of them. Events in Cleveland sports often provided his frame of reference.

After Tressel suspended Ray Small for the 2010 Rose Bowl, he spoke of the many chances he had given the wide receiver from Glenville.

"How many shots would you say he got?" a reporter asked.

"More than LeBron takes," Tressel said.

From head to toe, a distance, Tressel once disclosed, of 5 feet, 9 inches, he "got" the romance of college football. As a boy, he wore Ohio State quarterback Rex Kern's No. 10 jersey. As a coach, after another No. 10, Troy Smith, led a whirlwind comeback to steal a victory in Ann Arbor in 2005, Tressel said, "Years from now, little boys will run through the leaves in their backyards with a football, pretending to be Troy Smith."

Years after Tressel's current infamy and the travail he brought upon the Ohio State program, fans will probably remember the good times. The scandal cannot permanently flip the script "The Vest" wrote.

In a state that obsessively followed his team, in a city that had waited a long time to cheer, he made dreams come true.

On Twitter: @LivyPD

Boston police don't provide estimates, but size of the crowd appeared larger than all but the one that celebrated the Red Sox first championship in 86 years in 2004.

Associated PressBoston fans cheer as a duck boat carrying Bruins players goes by during today's parade for the NHL champions.

BOSTON, Massachusetts -- Screaming fans dressed in the black and gold of the Boston Bruins smiled, waved and stood on trees and bus shelters as they watched the NHL champions — and the Stanley Cup, of course — roll through city streets on a balmy, breezy day.

And the players they adore gave it right back.

Tim Thomas beamed. Zdeno Chara pumped his fists. Patrice Bergeron signaled to the massive crowd to shout even louder.

Then, as the nearly two-hour "rolling rally" celebration of the Bruins' first title in 39 years neared its end early Saturday afternoon, Andrew Ference raised one finger, then two, then three, orchestrating a familiar chant.

"Let's Go Bruins!" the fans responded. "Let's Go Bruins!"

But there's no need for the Bruins to go any further.

They've already arrived.

The long journey began in Vermont in late September with two days of training camp and ended in Vancouver on Wednesday night with a 4-0 victory over the Canucks in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals.

In between, the Bruins started the season with two games in Prague against the Phoenix Coyotes — losing then winning on a shutout by Thomas — and grew into a team determined enough to win three of its four postseason series in seven games and good enough to knock off the Canucks, the NHL's best team in the regular season.

The Bruins' trip to their sixth championship got a big boost from their fans, who stuck by them all the way to Saturday's celebration on a sunny day with temperatures reaching the low 80s. Crowds were so deep on the sidewalks that many fans might not have been able to see the players.

Police announced nine arrests of people "charged with, among other things, Public Drinking and Disorderly Conduct." Police commissioner Edward Davis said, "exemplary fan behavior was on full display throughout the day and all along the parade route."

In a 15-minute program outside the TD Garden before the rally, Boston mayor Thomas Menino thanked the Bruins for "a fabulous season."

Team president Cam Neely, one of the greatest forwards in club history but never a champion, said, "It's finally our time. How amazing is this?"

Chara, the captain, then told the fans, "We couldn't have done it without you," and shared a conversation he had with Neely.

"I promised him when we win a Cup I will hand it to him. So here we go. Come on, Cam," he said as Neely stepped forward, smiled broadly and took the trophy.

At one point, Bergeron and rookie Brad Marchand, who each scored two goals in Game 7, did a poor imitation of the rap song, "Black And Yellow."

Playoff MVP Thomas spoke briefly to the crowd, holding the Cup aloft the whole time.

"You guys wanted it. We got it and we want to share it with you today," said the goalie, one of the few Bruins still sporting a playoff beard. "Let's have some fun."

Then players — wearing white hats and black T-shirts proclaiming them Stanley Cup champions — and team officials boarded 18 colorful duck boats, tourist vehicles designed to travel on land and water. This day, they carried passengers who excelled on ice.

"We all love each other," said first-line forward Nathan Horton, sidelined for the series with a severe concussion early in Game 3. "We all care about each other. We all play for each other. That's the way it's been all year and that's why we won the Cup."

Playmaking center Marc Savard, limited to 25 games this season by the effects of a career-threatening concussion, rode in the same duck boat as Horton.

The possibility of playing again after missing the playoffs "is really the furthest thing from my mind right now," Savard said. "I just want to enjoy it here and let the boys take the spotlight here because they earned it."

About 20 minutes into the trip to Copley Square, a route of about three miles from the arena where the Bruins were 3-0 against the Canucks in the finals, Thomas said, "It's awesome to be sharing it with everybody. This is the day you really look forward to."

While Boston police no longer provide estimates, the size of the crowd appeared to be larger than all but the one that turned out to celebrate the Red Sox first championship in 86 years in 2004.

Pay The Man cruised to her third win in four starts this season in the $50,000 J. William Petro Memorial Handicap.

NORTH RANDALL, Ohio -- Pay The Man padded her record earnings Saturday, as the seven-year-old mare with jockey Luis Gonzalez in the saddle cruised to her third win in four starts this season in the $50,000 J. William Petro Memorial Handicap at Thistledown. 

Notching her 19th win in 49 career starts with a fourth straight victory in the Petro Memorial, Pay The Man boosted her career earnings to $719,526, the most ever banked by an Ohio-bred mare. Pay The Man is the daughter of Bernstein, a lightly-raced stallion that earned $173,120 in his career.

With Slides Choice a late scratch, there weren't any fillies and mares left in the field of five to challenge Pay The Man, who had a strong winning performance on a Memorial Day program here in the $50,000 Angenora Stakes. This time, Pay The Man was a wire-to-wire six-length winner for trainer Miguel "Angel" Feliciano and Pyrite Stables, owned by Dr. Dan Frazier of Clearwater, Fla.

Pay The Man proved again she can handle a variety of distances. The recent Angenora Stake was a six-furlong dash, while the Petro Memorial is a longer 1 1/16 miles. There was a timid early challenge from stablemate Adreamfordarlene, ridden by Ramon Ramos and owned and trained by Feliciano. Pay The Man handily kept Adreamfordarlene on her outside. Heading into the stretch, Pay the Man easily dominated the field.

Pay The Man clocked 1:45.1 to return $3, 2.20, 2.10. Honey Be Fleet (2.60, 2.10) moved up on the rail to take second, 1 1/4 lengths in front of Adreamfordarlene (2.20).

It was the second straight race that the Tim Hamm-trained Slides Choice has been scratched. The five-year-old beat Pay The Man last year in the $50,000 Rose DeBartolo Memorial and the $75,000 Best of Ohio Distaff.

Awesome at Belmont: Four-year-old mare Awesome Maria was a bold winner in the $250,000 Ogden Phipps Handicap at Belmont Park, a 1 1/16-mile Grade I event. It was the fourth win in as many starts this season for the Todd Pletcher-trained mare, ridden by John Velasquez.

Former Indians Kenny Lofton, Carlos Baerga and Wil Cordero were at Progressive Field on Saturday.

View full sizeChuck Crow / The Plain DealerKenny Lofton spent time with the Indians in spring training, and will do so again in 2012.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Clubhouse confidential: Former Indians Kenny Lofton, Carlos Baerga and Wil Cordero were at Progressive Field on Saturday.

The Indians invited Lofton and Baerga for the weekend to do some meet-and-greet with fans. Lofton worked with the Indians outfielders and worked on the players' base-running in spring training. Baerga said he'll join him next spring.

Cordero brought his kids to the ballpark and spent time visiting with Orlando Cabrera. Cordero and Cabrera are former Montreal Expos.

Baerga said he's planning a reunion of the 1995 Indians. "Kenny and me are going to fly to Arizona and find Albert Belle and bring him back with us."

Words to live by: "It's safe to say I didn't want him going to third base in that situation whether he got hurt or didn't," manager Manny Acta on Matt LaPorta's dash from second to third base in the third inning Friday on a grounder to short.

LaPorta twisted his ankle in a rundown and was placed on the disabled list Saturday.

Stat of the day: The Indians, 5-13 in interleague play last year, won their first four games this year.

"Owners make a ton of money and are very wealthy, and the players make a ton of money and are very wealthy," says Lakers' Luke Walton, "so its kind of hard for (fans) to sympathize with either side when (they) are hard-working people trying to make it..."

Associated PressAn NBA work stoppage would halt the momentum gained from an intriguing season that was capped by the championship series win of the Dallas Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki (right) over the Miami Heat and Dwyane Wade (left).

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia -- NBA players who just finished a season capped by the highest rated championship series in more than a decade are concerned about how their labor dispute and a potential work stoppage before next season will affect their surging fan base.

Luke Walton said the packed road arenas the Los Angeles Lakers played in this season suggest the league's popularity is at a high point, and he's most concerned about how fans would respond if the labor issues aren't resolved and cause a delay to the start of the next season.

"The idea of the lockout and losing fans is probably the scariest thing of all," the eight-year veteran said. "Even moreso than missing games or losing out on your salary for however long you lose those games, it's losing the fan support because it's at an all-time high right now."

The numbers bear it out.

All three networks that televise NBA games reported a huge increase in viewers, led by a 42 percent increase for TNT. ABC had 38 percent more viewers, and ESPN had 28 percent more.

Arena capacity was 90.3 percent, its seventh straight year of 90 or better, and the 17,306 average was up 1 percent from last year and is the fifth highest in the league's history.

With the emergence of Derrick Rose as the league MVP, young teams in Oklahoma City and Memphis rising up to challenge traditional powers such as the Lakers and NBA champion Dallas Mavericks, and even the New York Knicks on the rise with the addition of Carmelo Anthony, the league seems to have as many viable contenders as in recent memory, which adds to its allure.

To stop the momentum with a lockout that fans might perceive as a selfish battle between already rich greedy owners and greedy players, Walton said, would be taking a huge risk.

"We know how dangerous it can be. We've seen it happen before. We've seen it happen in our sport with the last lockout. We saw it happen in baseball, hockey, and it's damaging," he said at the NBPA's annual Top 100 camp for elite high school players. Walton was taking part in a coach program for players at the camp, which wraps up Sunday at the University of Virginia.

"The popularity is at the top," he said. "It's high, and the ratings were record-breaking the last few years, and from the fans' perspective, the owners make a ton of money and are very wealthy, and the players make a ton of money and are very wealthy, so its kind of hard for them to sympathize with either side when these guys are hard-working people trying to make it and they're spending their hard-earned money on tickets and merchandise and all that stuff."

Walton isn't the only one.

"We would probably lose fans if we have a work stoppage," said Royal Ivey of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who said he came to the camp "to get my feet wet" in the coaching program.

The Grizzlies' Tony Allen also was taking part in the coaching program, and while he said a work stoppage would "put a needle in the balloon" of momentum, he sees a rather simple solution.

Financial restraint by management.

"If you're a GM, you've got to be smarter with your money," he said, echoing a thought career scoring leader Kareem Abdul-Jabbar voiced Friday. "If you don't want to give a guy $197 million and you believe he's only worth 60 percent of that, sign him for just 60 percent of it."

Abdul-Jabbar, who highlighted the importance of education in his chat with the campers, said he understands why fans won't be sympathetic to arguments over enormous amounts of money.

"There's a lot of guys that are overpaid, and that's another issue that the owners need to deal with because certain people are overpaid and that's ballooning the salaries to the point where the owners can't recoup their investment," the Lakers' assistant coach said.

"Everybody should be able to feel satisfied. The players should feel satisfied that they are getting paid adequately and the owners should feel satisfied that they are getting a good return on their investment," he continued. "In a perfect world, that's how it will end up."

Kotoch is a Cleveland-based sports agent who operates probasketball draft.com

View full sizeAP photoJonas Valanciunas would have an immediate impact on the Cavaliers' defense if he gets their draft nod on Thursday, says probasketballdraft.com's Joe Kotoch.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Kotoch is a Cleveland-based sports agent who operates probasketball draft.com

First round

1. Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke

On Irving: The Cavs have the opportunity to select the best player in this draft. Irving is a legitimate PG with All-Star abilities who can score, distribute, and defend. Considering Byron Scott's track record with developing PG, this choice should be easy.

2. Timberwolves: Derrick Williams, SF, Arizona

3. Jazz: Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky

4. Cavaliers: Jonas Valanciunas, C, Lithuania

On Valanciunas: While Cleveland has been linked to Kantner more openly, this is their pick, presuming Valanciunas' agent secures a buyout that will get the Lithuanian to Cleveland within a season or two. Behind closed doors the Cavs absolutely love Valanciunas, who was among the best rebounders in Europe this past season. Valanciunas has loads of upside and would excite fans with his impressive style of play on defense.

5. Raptors: Enes Kanter, C, Turkey

6. Wizards: Jan Vesely, SF, Czech Republic

7. Kings: Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU

8. Pistons: Kemba Walker, PG, UConn

9. Bobcats: Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

10. Bucks: Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego State

11. Warriors: Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State

12. Jazz: Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

13. Suns: Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas

14. Rockets: Jordan Hamilton, SF, Texas

15. Pacers: Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

16. 76ers: Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas

17. Knicks: Bismack Biyombo, C, Congo

18. Wizards: Marcus Morris, PF, Kansas

19. Bobcats: Nikola Vucevic, C, USC

20. Timberwolves: Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania

21. Trailblazers: Kenneth Faried, PF, Morehead State

22. Nuggets: Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee

23. Rockets: Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

24. Thunder: Kyle Singler, SF, Duke

25. Celtics: Jeremy Tyler, C, Tokyo Apache/USA

26. Mavericks: Davis Bertans, SF, Latvia

27. Nets: Josh Selby, SG, Kansas

28. Bulls: JaJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue

29. Spurs: Nikola Mirotic, SF, Montenegro

30. Bulls: Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA

Second round

31. Heat: Reggie Jackson, PG, Boston College

32. Cavaliers: Jimmy Butler, SF, Marquette

On Butler: The Cavs need to infuse talent to their perimeter and Butler is a great value pick in round two. Butler is an efficient scorer and a physical defender who could be an instant starter for some teams or an effective player off the bench.

33. Pistons: Iman Shumpert, PG, Georgia Tech

34. Wizards: Jordan Williams, C, Maryland

35. Kings: Justin Harper, PF, Richmond

36. Nets: Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia

37. Clippers: Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra

38. Rockets: Bojan Bogdanovic, SG, Croatia

39. Bobcats: Nolan Smith, PG, Duke

40. Bucks: Norris Cole, PG, Cleveland State

41. Lakers: Malcolm Lee, SG, UCLA

42. Pacers: Jon Leuer, PF, Wisconsin

43. Bulls: Shelvin Mack, PG, Butler

44. Warriors: Keith Benson, C, Oakland

45. Hornets: Travis Leslie, SG, Georgia

46. Lakers: Diante Garrett, PG, Iowa State

47. Clippers: Justin Holiday, SG, Washington

48. Hawks: Chandler Parsons, SF, Florida

49. Grizzlies: Cory Joseph, PG, Texas

50. 76ers: Michael Dunigan, C, Oregon

51. Trailblazers: Demtri McCamey, PG, Illinois

52. Nuggets: Malcolm Thomas, PF, San Diego State

53. Magic: DeAndre Liggins, SF, Kentucky

54. Cavaliers: Adam Hanga, SG, Hungary

On Hanga: Hanga is a good shooter who still needs a season or two in Europe to continue developing. Hanga has nice size and good elevation on his jumper. The Cavs likely will want at least one pick on draft night to stay overseas.

55. Celtics: David Lighty, SG, Ohio State

56. Lakers: Greg Smith, PF, Fresno State

57. Mavericks: Scotty Hopson, SF, Tennessee

58. Lakers: Jereme Richmond, SG, Illinois

59. Spurs: Willie Reed, PF, St. Louis

60. Kings: Andrew Goudelock, PG, Coll. of Charleston

Moll covers the NBA Draft for The Hoop Doctors and his blog can be found at thehoopdoctors.com.

View full sizeAP photoTurkish center is "easily the best 'can't miss' prospect" in the draft, says The Hoop Doctors' Allen Moll.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Moll covers the NBA Draft for The Hoop Doctors and his blog can be found at thehoopdoctors.com.

First round

1. Cavaliers: Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke

On Irving: Despite the possibilities of either taking Williams at No. 1 or trading up for the Top 2 picks in the draft, the Cleveland fan base would never let management live down not drafting a potential 10-year starter at PG that many compare to Chris Paul. Despite measuring out poorly at the combine (10 percent body fat to Brandon Knight's 4 percent), Irving remains the consensus best player on most draft boards. If they select Williams at No 1, look for the Cavs to grab either Knight or Kemba Walker as a fallback option at No. 4.

2. Timberwolves: Derrick Williams, SF, Arizona

3. Jazz: Brandon Knight, PG, Kentucky

4. Cavaliers: Enes Kantner, C, Kentucky

On Kantner: The Turkish big man's stock is soaring as he has been projected to go as high as No. 1 in some mocks. He's easily the best "can't miss" prospect with virtually no downside in the lottery by both measuring out well and besting every other big in attendance at the combine. Utah is so high on Kantner that they are considering now taking Kantner at No. 3 instead of Knight. If they do decide to pair Kantner with Al Jefferson up front, Cleveland will be forced to go with either Vesely, Valanciunas, or Thompson with the fourth pick.

5. Raptors: Kemba Walker, PG, UConn

6. Wizards: Jan Vesely, SF, Czech Republic

7. Kings: Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU

8. Pistons: Jonas Valanciunas, PF, Lithuania

9. Bobcats: Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego State

10. Bucks: Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

11. Warriors: Marcus Morris, SF, Kansas

12. Jazz: Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania

13. Suns: Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas

14. Rockets: Darius Morris, PG, Michigan

15. Pacers: Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

16. 76ers: Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas

17. Knicks: Kenneth Faried, PF, Morehead State

18. Wizards: Tobias Harris, SF, Tennessee

19. Bobcats: Chris Singleton, SF, Florida State

20. Timberwolves: Tyler Honeycutt, SF, UCLA

21. Trailblazers: Jordan Hamilton, SG, Texas

22. Nuggets: Justin Harper, PF, Richmond

23. Rockets: Bismack Biyombo, C, Congo

24. Thunder: Kyle Singler, SF, Duke

25. Celtics: Nikola Vucevic, C, USC

26. Mavericks: Nolan Smith, SG, Duke

27. Nets: Marshon Brooks, SG, Providence

28. Bulls: Shelvin Mack, SG, Butler

29. Spurs: Jon Leuer, PF, Wisconsin

30. Bulls: Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia

Second round

31. Heat: JuJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue

32. Cavs: Jeremy Tyler, C, Tokyo Apache

On Tyler: I'm sure Cleveland would be ecstatic if the imposing Tyler is still on the board, as many have him going late in the first round. The highly-ranked high school prospect developed his game overseas for the last two seasons and definitely looks the part of an NBA center. Possessing a 7-5 wingspan, Tyler impressed everyone at the combine by showing off some outstanding low-post footwork, a developing mid-range game, and better than expected mobility, all packed in a 6-11, 265-pound frame. At 19, he's nowhere near a finished project, but could be a diamond in the rough behind Varejao and Kantner up front.

33. Pistons: Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra

34. Wizards: Travis Leslie, SF, Georgia

35. Kings: David Bertans, SF, Latvia

36. Nets: Norris Cole, PG, Cleveland State

37. Clippers: Josh Selby, PG, Kansas

38. Rockets: Jordan Williams, PF, Maryland

39. Bobcats: Chandler Parsons, SF, Florida

40. Bucks: Jimmy Butler, SF, Marquette

41. Lakers: Reggie Jackson, PG, Boston College

42. Pacers: Rick Jackson, PF, Syracuse

43. Bulls: DeAndre Liggins, SF, Kentucky

44. Warriors: Malcolm Thomas, PF, San Diego State

45. Hornets: Nikola Mirotic, SF, Montenegro

46. Lakers: Malcolm Lee, SG, UCLA

47. Clippers: Cory Joseph, PG, Texas

48. Hawks: Greg Smith, C, Fresno State

49. Grizzlies: Keith Benson, C, Oakland

50. 76ers: David Lighty, SG, Ohio State

51. Trailblazers: Michael Dunigan, C, Estonia/Oregon

52. Nuggets: Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois

53. Magic: Iman Shumpert, PG, Georgia Tech

54. Cavaliers: LaceDarius Dunn, SG, Baylor

On Dunn: Since most late second-round selections rarely amount to anything, Cleveland would be wise to snatch up Dunn, who set numerous Big 12 records for points and 3-point shooting as a four-year contributor at Baylor. The former McDonalds All American is an instant offense-type player and one of the nation's best scorers despite a down senior year. While he has range anywhere inside the gym, defense and size (6-4) are concerns.

55. Celtics: Andrew Goudelock, PG, Charleston

56. Lakers: Chris Wright, SF, Dayton

57. Mavericks: Scotty Hopson, SF, Tennessee

58. Lakers: Ben Hansbrough, SG, Notre Dame

59. Spurs: Demetri McCamey, PG, Illinois

60. Kings: E'Twaun Moore, SG, Purdue

The top 10 questions heading into Thursday's NBA draft

View full sizeAP photoWhile differing scenarios still exist, it seems more and more likely that the Cavaliers will select Kyrie Irving with the first pick of Thursday's NBA draft. But after that, there are plenty of questions.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Every day brings more questions and rumors about Thursday's NBA draft. The amount of information keeps growing, but somehow it doesn't make things any clearer.

So with the better part of five days to go, here are the top 10 questions Cavaliers fans are asking about the annual talent show.

Q: Why don't the Cavs just announce their plans?

A: Unlike 2003, when LeBron James was the clear cut No. 1 pick in the draft, the Cavs have nothing to gain by declaring their intentions this early.

As an organization, the team's strategy always has been to accumulate assets and maintain flexibility, and keeping mum on their plans at this point is in their best interests.

Although virtually every mock draft has the Cavs taking Duke point guard Kyrie Irving No. 1, team officials have maintained they haven't yet made up their minds -- and that's entirely possible because they are still waiting to see what kind of offers they get for that pick or for the fourth selection. Moving up or down is still possible. And don't forget -- the $14.5 million trade exception also remains in play.

While the media would be happy to know the pick in advance, playing coy keeps more options open.

Q: Will Cleveland take Kyrie Irving or Derrick Williams first?

A: Irving still looks like the likely choice. Coach Byron Scott has had his best success with talented point guards such as Jason Kidd and Chris Paul. Paul is Irving's favorite player, and while comparisons between the two are a bit of a stretch, Irving still seems to have the potential to be a very good player, although not necessarily in Paul's class. Baron Davis seems ready, willing and able to mentor a youngster like Irving, and the Cavs would be able to bring him along slowly rather than have to throw a 19-year-old into the fire so soon after playing just 11 games last season with a toe injury. The Cavs were very impressed by Williams in his workout last week, but as the team is currently constructed, it would seem that Irving is a better fit.

Q: What's the difference between Enes Kanter and Jonas Valanciunas at No. 4?

A: Both are very young with tremendous upside, but observers seem to think Kanter is more polished offensively and defensively and much stronger. He already has been in the United States for a couple of years, which is another slight advantage. Valanciunas has a complicated contract situation in Lithuania, although most figure his team will agree to a buyout. If the Cavs decide he's their guy, money will not stop them from making the pick. But Kanter is here now and would seem to be the safer pick.

Q: What's the strength of this draft?

A: It's got to be point guards. Three -- Irving, Kentucky's Brandon Knight and Connecticut's Kemba Walker -- are projected to go in the first five picks, with BYU's Jimmer Fredette not far behind. Fredette is a fan favorite after leading the NCAA Division I in scoring last season, but he has played extremely well in his workouts -- perhaps convincing some scouts who wondered if his game would translate from college to the pros.

Q: Who are the best small forwards or shooting guards?

A: If point guards are the strength of this draft, wings are the weakness, which is not good news to teams like the Cavs -- or the Timberwolves, for that matter. The best available are San Diego State's Kawhi Leonard, Colorado's Alec Burks or Texas' Jordan Hamilton. The problem is that all would be a reach at No. 4, which is why there is ongoing chatter about trying to move down in the draft, picking up another player or pick and then drafting one of the aforementioned candidates.

Q: Will there be many trades?

A: It seems every year there are many predictions of trades and very few come to pass. That might be different this year with Minnesota picking No. 2. The Wolves don't need Irving or Williams, and immediately after the Wolves got the No. 2 pick in the lottery, there was talk of trading the pick in order to add some veterans to a very young team that just got younger with the addition of Ricky Rubio.

Q: Who are some players who might be available in the second round at Nos. 32 and 54?

A: In all likelihood, this will be where the Cavs will look to increase their scoring. How about a guy like Purdue's E'Twaun Moore or Iowa State's Diante Garrett? Maybe Washington's Isaiah Thomas or Marquette's Jimmy Butler.

Q: Which player with local ties has the best chance of being drafted?

A: Right now it looks as if Cleveland State's Norris Cole could sneak into the end of the first round, followed by Ohio State's David Lighty in the second. It doesn't look as if OSU's Jon Diebler will be drafted, but with his shooting ability, he likely will get free-agent offers, which might enable him to find a better fit. Ohio State's Dallas Lauderdale also won't get drafted, but could find a spot with the right team.

Q: What's the deal with all the European players?

A: In a conference call with reporters, ESPN's Fran Fraschilla made a great point that when Perry Jones, Terrence Jones, Jared Sullinger and Harrison Barnes elected to go back to school, that opened the door for a number of international players. Obviously, picking European players is nothing new. The Cavs took two -- Vitaly Potapenko and Zydrunas Ilgauskas, in that order -- in 1996. A number of these Euros likely would have been in the top 10 or 15 picks last year. But Franschilla and ESPN's Chad Ford also pointed out that this is an unusually solid draft class from Europe. Ford said he doesn't see any European players being selected in the lottery next year.

Q: Is there a player would could make a surprise splash in this draft?

A: A couple of guys who seem to be moving up are Washington State's Klay Thompson and USC's Nikola Vucevic. Providence's Marshon Brooks missed some workouts with an injury, but seems to be an intriguing prospect, as is Morehead State's rebounding machine Kenneth Faried.

On Twitter: @pdcavsinsider

Both Kyrie Irving and Derrick Williams will likely be off the board -- one of them, to the Cavs -- when Cleveland picks again at No. 4.

Associated PressJonas Valanciunas, here shown with the basketball during a Euroleague game, might be considered by the Cavaliers as the fourth overall pick.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- As Thursday's NBA draft approaches, it's likely that -- barring a trade -- the Cleveland Cavaliers will make the fourth overall pick after:

(1) they have taken either Duke point guard Kyrie Irving or Arizona forward Derrick Williams with the first pick in the draft;

(2) whichever of the two they didn't take, Irving or Williams, will have been selected by either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Utah Jazz.

ProBasketballNews, in its mock draft, predicts that with the No. 4 pick, the Cavaliers will take:

Jonas Valanciunas, C/F, Lithuania: If Irving is the top selection, it intensifies the emphasis on grabbing another big man since the Cavs were so thin up front once Anderson Varejao was lost. Valanciunas will be bought out of his deal with his domestic club, ensuring no Ricky Rubio-type concerns derailing this decision. Jan Vesely could be the choice here as well.

Plain Dealer and cleveland.com Cavaliers coverage includes Mary Schmitt Boyer's analysis of the draft, five days away.

Pick and rolls

A photo gallery of the top point guards in the draft, on Sports Illustrated's SI.com.

Who should be the No. 1 pick, Kyrie Irving or Derrick Williams? By Sean Deveney for SportingNews.com.

The top 102 draft prospects, on CBSSports.com.

A story about Kyrie Irving and his father, Drederick Irving. By Marc J. Spears on Yahoo! Sports.

Mock drafts on:

InsideHoops.com

NBA.com

NBADraft.net, on FoxSports.com

  ASSOCIATED PRESSTiki Barber in 2007 East Rutherford, N.J. -- Tiki Barber says failures off the field after his retirement from football in 2006 led to a yearlong bout with depression. The 36-year-old Barber, the New York Giants' career leading rusher, acknowledged in an HBO report to be aired Tuesday that he now needs football more than it needs...

ASSOCIATED PRESSTiki Barber in 2007

East Rutherford, N.J. -- Tiki Barber says failures off the field after his retirement from football in 2006 led to a yearlong bout with depression.

The 36-year-old Barber, the New York Giants' career leading rusher, acknowledged in an HBO report to be aired Tuesday that he now needs football more than it needs him.

Barber has spent the past four months working out in an attempt to make a comeback, although his chances rest on the league and its players reaching a new collective bargaining agreement.

Barber said football represents a necessary anchor in a life turned upside down by the depressive aftermath of scandalous divorce and disintegration of his television career.

"The game never needs you because there's always someone else to come and take your place," he said. "But right now, I need the game."

The Associated Press attempted to telephone Barber, but his old cell phone number now leaves a message saying the person who has the number is not available.

"I need to prove to myself that I can be successful at something," told HBO. "I know I'm going to be successful as a football player. I don't know why. The odds say 'No.' I'm 36 and I haven't played in four years. But I just know."

The report recounts the downward spiral Barber's life took shortly after his retirement. What started as a promising career as an NBC football analyst ended in his firing. His marriage to his college sweetheart collapsed. And his relationship with a 23-year-old NBC intern which continues today soiled a well-honed, family man image.

Barber said he was unable to deal with losing his $2 million per year job, which started as a football analyst for Football Night in America and progressed to a featured role on the Today Show. But his demotion to on-field duties and, eventually, to unemployment, led to depression.

"I crafted this career, right?" he said. "And I had gotten to the point where I was right where I wanted to be and then I failed. It's hard to deal with."

Barber said after his job at NBC ended, he didn't do anything for a solid year.

"I remember there were days where I would literally wake up, have coffee, get something to eat and sit on the couch and do nothing for 10 hours," he said. "I started to shrivel. I didn't have that confidence. I didn't have the, that aura anymore."

Barber said his marriage actually started to crack six months after he ended his 10-year playing career.

His well-honed image as all-around good guy would take a huge hit when moved in with Tracy Lynn Johnson while his wife was pregnant with twins.

The story that hit the tabloids painted him as an adulterer, though Barber said he and his wife had separated before he accelerated his relationship with Tracy.

"I was in a bad marriage," Barber said in the interview "It was in trouble for a long time. And we decided to get separated. But Ginny got pregnant in the middle of it. And a lot of people think children save marriages; sometimes it makes it worse. And we split soon after she was pregnant.

"And I was on my own for a few days, and then I moved in with Tracy. And then, five months later, here comes the New York Post stalking me."

Barber said he never second-guesses his relationship with his girlfriend.

"NBC, marriage. I mean, the only thing that felt right was Tracy," Barber said. "It was the only thing that made me not really feel depressed."

The cycle broke around the time of the Super Bowl in Dallas in February, when friends and former coaches encouraged him to try a comeback.

Now, as he tries to rebuild his image through football, he endures daily workouts at New Jersey strongman Joe Carini's gym.

"There's a lot of coaches who I both have played against and played for who I think know what I'm about," Barber said. "And that gives me the belief that this opportunity is for real. And not only am I going to be on a team, I'm going to be a big part of a team."

By Charles Odum Associated Press   JOHN AMIS/ASSOCIATED PRESSJohnathan Taylor has been paralyzed since an outfield collision while playing for the University of Georgia. He was still drafted by the Texas Rangers, and meets the Rangers' Josh Hamilton Saturday. ATLANTA - Three months after a devastating on-field collision between University of Georgia outfielders Zach Cone and Johnathan Taylor left...

By Charles Odum Associated Press

JOHN AMIS/ASSOCIATED PRESSJohnathan Taylor has been paralyzed since an outfield collision while playing for the University of Georgia. He was still drafted by the Texas Rangers, and meets the Rangers' Josh Hamilton Saturday.

ATLANTA - Three months after a devastating on-field collision between University of Georgia outfielders Zach Cone and Johnathan Taylor left Taylor partially paralyzed, the two were side by side again on Saturday as draft picks of the Texas Rangers.

Cone said he believes Taylor will walk again because "he's the most positive person I've been around."

Taylor showed his positive attitude when asked about his goals.

"Right now my goal is to get better during the rehab and focus on trying to get my legs back under me again and start walking and running and get back on that field again, like I always wanted," Taylor said.

Cone, the 37th overall pick in this month's draft, agreed to terms on a deal with the Rangers on Saturday and is headed to Class A Spokane.

Taylor, drafted by Texas in the 33rd round last week, was with Cone and first-round pick Kevin Matthews, a left-handed pitcher from Richmond Hill (Ga.) High School, before the Rangers' game against the Braves. Matthews, who also agreed to terms on Saturday, will report to the Rangers' rookie team in the Arizona League.

Taylor was left paralyzed from the chest down after he broke his neck in the collision with Cone. He is undergoing outpatient treatment at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.

Rangers senior director of player personnel A.J. Preller said the team has made a donation to the fund established for Taylor's rehabilitation.

"It's something gong forward we'll be out there supporting him any way possible," Preller said.

"His goal is to get better every single day. That's a goal we talk to our players about in our organization. That's what we're going to put in front of Zach and in front of Kevin, every single day to try to go out there and make yourself better. That's where it's a very good match."

Cone said he feels better by seeing Taylor make progress.

Cone was knocked unconscious but he made the catch before colliding with Taylor on the play against Florida State. The speedy Taylor, who drove in the game-winning run against the Seminoles the day before, was playing center field when he crashed into Cone, who was playing in left.

Cone managed to walk off the field. An ambulance drove onto the field to take Taylor away.

"It was really a scary moment," Georgia coach David Perno said Saturday.

"You've seen a lot of different collisions and a lot of serious injuries, but you've never seen one as serious as this."

The collision may have left Cone's psyche scarred. He hit .363 with 10 homers and 53 RBIs as a sophomore but only .275 with four homers and 35 RBIs this year as a junior.

"Yeah, it's a lot of ups and downs, having to go through what we went through wasn't easy," Cone said. "It kind of got me a little bit."

Perno and Cone said they were impressed the Rangers drafted Taylor.

"This is awesome," Cone said. "It shows a lot about the Rangers organization and how they care about their players. After our accident, it was hard for both of us. To be here right now and know we're both teammates again, it's awesome. You can't even bring words to it."

Some doubt Taylor will walk again. His mother, Tandra Taylor, says she knows better. She says she heard the same thing when she shattered her right knee in a car accident two years ago.

"They didn't think I was going to walk," Tandra Taylor said as she wore a blue Rangers T-shirt on Saturday. "They even thought about amputating my leg."

Tandra said her recovery took two years.

"As soon as I came back, this happened to him," she said, adding her son shows the same determination to disprove the skeptics and already shows "great improvement."

"He has not missed one day of therapy," she said. "If they would let him go seven days, he would.

"He's coming back. He's definitely coming back because you can't stop someone who is determined to do something, no matter what they say."

Rangers director of amateur scouting Kip Fagg said after talking with Tandra Taylor, the team will not sign Taylor to a contract.

"Our focus right now is for Johnathan to stay here in Atlanta and rehabilitate from his injury and finish his school," Fagg said. "That's the most important thing right now."

Taylor and Cone were on the field for batting practice and Taylor met several players including one of his favorites, Josh Hamilton. He said he often played the Texas Rangers on video games before he was surprised to be drafted with Cone by the team.

"It's a dream come true," he said.

"It's a great thing after what we both have been through. We have stayed strong together. I thank the Rangers for what they did, keeping us together."

Carrasco didn't allow a hit until the sixth inning, as the Indians steadily pulled away for their second straight win over the Pirates.

View full sizeAmy Sancetta, Associated PressCarlos Carrasco started Saturday night's game in solid fashion once again for the Indians.

CLEVELAND, Ohio --  Indians right-hander Carlos Carrasco lost a no-hit bid in the sixth inning and shutout bid in the seventh, but his body of work proved more than enough to stifle the Pirates on Saturday night at Progressive Field.

Carrasco gave up one run on four hits in 6 1/3 innings as the Indians won, 5-1. Grady Sizemore went 2-for-3 with a double and triple.

The Indians (38-31) have won four of six, including the first two of a three-game series against Pittsburgh.

The Pirates slipped to 35-35.

Carrasco allowed one runner through five innings: He walked Lyle Overbay in the second.

Pittsburgh catcher Mike McKenry, who entered the game hitting .143, led off the sixth with a liner toward second. As Orlando Cabrera leaped, the ball struck his glove and fell to the ground. Cabrera was unable to recover.

Official scorer Bob Maver immediately ruled the play a hit. The crowd booed. With one out, Jose Tabata singled off the glove of diving third baseman Jack Hannahan. Carrasco rallied with strikeouts of lefty Xavier Paul (3-2 changeup) and righty Andrew McCutchen (3-2 slider).

Carrasco's change-ups to lefties have played a large role in a three-start winning streak.

The Pirates broke through in the seventh. Garrett Jones led off with a double to right-center and advanced to third on a grounder. Overbay drove him in with a single to right, pulling the Pirates within 3-1. Carrasco's scoreless-innings streak ended at 21 1/3. It had been the longest active in the majors.

Joe Smith relieved and got the final two outs with no further damage.

The Indians accounted for the final margin with two runs in the eighth. Michael Brantley had a sacrifice fly and Shin-Soo Choo an RBI single.

Leading off the first, Sizemore was hit by Pirates lefty Paul Maholm's full-count pitch. Sizemore advanced to second on Brantley's grounder and to third on Asdrubal Cabrera's single to right. Carlos Santana hit a sacrifice fly to left; Sizemore easily beat the off-target throw.

Maholm's scoreless-innings streak was snapped at 13.

The Indians made it 2-0 in the second. Austin Kearns opened with a single and moved to third on two grounders. Sizemore grounded a double inside the first-base bag, ending an 0-for-10.

The Sizemore RBI double ended Carrasco's opportunity to win three consecutive games by 1-0 scores. He beat Minnesota on June 7 and the Yankees on June 13.

Orlando Cabrera homered to left in the sixth for a 3-0 lead.

Carrasco improved to 7-3 and lowered his ERA to 3.87.

A quick Q&A with the Indians right-hander.

View full sizeChuck Crow / The Plain DealerCarlos Carrasco is second on the Indians' pitching staff in victories with seven following Saturday's win over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A quick Q&A with the Indians right-hander, who improved to 7-3 following Saturday's 5-1 victory over the Pirates.

Q: When you were growing up in Venezuela, did you play other sports besides baseball?

A: Sometimes I liked to play basketball, but my parents didn't let me. They were afraid I'd break my fingers. They wanted me to play only baseball. Sometimes when I played baseball, I'd be playing with a tennis ball, but they didn't let me throw it because it wasn't the same weight as a regular baseball. They were afraid I'd hurt my arm. "I started playing baseball when I was four years old. When I was 13, I said to my mom, "The time is coming. I want to sign. I want to be in the big leagues.' It never bothered me that they didn't let me play other sports. I think the decision my parents made is the reason I'm here now.

Q: What was the toughest part about coming from Venezuela to the United States for your first spring training with the Phillies?

A: I came here for spring training when I was 16 years old. The first two weeks of spring training, I called the Director of Latin American operations and asked him to buy me a plane ticket so I could go back to Venezuela. I really missed my family. He told me, "Ok, I can do that, but you'll be suspended two or three years from playing baseball. You won't even to be able to play winter ball.' "I made the decision I must stay.

Q: How did you get your nickname Cookie?

A: Chris Perez gave me that nickname. He saw me eating cookies and milk and started calling me Cookie.

Q: What's your best pitch?

A: My best pitch is a fastball when I've got good location. In my bullpen sessions between starts, our pitcher coach Tim Belcher has me throw only fastballs to both sides of the plate. It's really helped my command.

Q: What was your reaction when the Phillies traded you to Cleveland as part of the Cliff Lee deal in 2009?

A: When I got traded to Cleveland I said, "This is going to be my opportunity to play in the big leagues.' A month later, the organization brought me up in September."

The Tribe remains at the top of the AL Central, but that doesn't ease the concerns showing up from fans' emails.

View full sizeBret Hartman, Associated PressCarlos Santana has had his ups and downs at first base, but Matt LaPorta's injury will give him extended playing time there for a while.

Hey, Hoynsie: What in the heck is Carlos Santana doing playing first base? He's like a fish out of water there. He made two mental errors in the last game alone. -- Thom Amberbach, Charlotte, N.C.

Hey, Thom: He's been playing first base since spring training. Manager Manny Acta does it to keep his bat in the lineup -- and now he'll play there a lot as Matt LaPorta heals his ankle sprain. It's a good idea as long as Santana hits, which is something he hasn't done for a long time.

Hey, Hoynsie: When I was watching a game on ESPN, the pitcher struck out the batter. After the strike out, a backwards "K" showed up in the score window on the screen. I have seen this before when fans keep track of strikeouts at the ballpark. I know that a "K" is a symbol for a strikeout, but why is it sometimes backwards? -- Jared Smith, Layton, Utah

Hey, Jared: K and a backward K stand for the two kinds of strikeouts. The normal K is for a swinging strikeout. The backward K is for a called strikeout. Some people use Ks and Kc.

Hey, Hoynsie: GM Chris Antonetti must have a lot of pressure to make the right moves to right the ship before the trade deadline. Any idea how much input Mike Hargrove has now with talent evaluations? -- Fredrick Henning, South Euclid

Hey, Fredrick: I'm sure Hargrove is available to give an opinion on players and their talents, but the man with the final call is Antonetti.

Hey, Hoynsie: What do the Indians' stadium personnel do with leftover promotional items? Why do they only give extra-large T-shirts? -- Adrienne Davis, Oberlin

Hey, Adrienne: Checked with Curtis Danburg of the Indians and he said leftover promotional items are often given to various charities. As for the free t-shirts being only one size, Danburg said people would never get into the ballpark on time to watch the game if they had to distribute a variety of sizes.

Look at it this way, if extra-large is too big, you can always use it as a blanket.

Hey, Hoynsie: What's wrong with Fausto Carmona? Would it help to give him a break in the bullpen and call up another starter? -- Steve Alex, Gainesville, Fla.

Hey, Steve: I saw enough of Carmona in the bullpen in 2006 to convince me he can't close. He did pitch well in a set-up role, but the Indians are solid there with Tony Sipp, Vinnie Pestano, Joe Smith and Rafael Perez.

Manny Acta says Carmona needs to throw his best pitch, a sinking fastball, more. He also needs to throw his change-up slower. If his fastball is 93 mph and his change-up is 89, that's not enough separation. Carmona wasn't great Wednesday against Detroit, but he was better.

Hey, Hoynsie: I just read your Fausto Carmona article. He still speaks little English? How many players on the team are not U.S. citizens? -- Barb Lanzer, Cuyahoga Falls

Hey, Barb: I'm guessing the story you're referring to is when Carmona talked to reporters on June 11 after hitting Mark Teixeira with a pitch the day before at Yankee Stadium.

Carmona hasn't used an interpreter in at least two years, but with the number of reporters he was talking to on that occasion, he felt more comfortable using one. Even with the interpreter, Carmona answered half the questions himself before the interpreter could translate the question.

English is a second language to several Indians, but they all give a sincere effort to talk to reporters in English. It's a credit to them and the team.

Not sure how many players aren't U.S. citizens. I'm not sure how that matters as long as they can play ball.

Hey, Hoynsie: Pitcher A pitches 4 innings before leaving the game with a 3-0 lead. Pitcher B comes into the game and completes the final 41/3 innings. The final is 3-1. Can Pitcher B get a win and a save? Has this ever happened? -- Jeff O., Minneapolis

Hey, Jeff: Don't ever throw that many fractions at me again in the guise of a baseball question. I just flashed back to my senior year in high school -- I was in the slow math class -- at Cathedral Latin and my nervous tic is back.

A pitcher cannot win and save the same game. The win would go to pitcher B and there would be no save. The starting pitcher has to go at least five innings to earn a win.

View full sizeAmy Sancetta, Associated PressAn avid fan says he has the reason for the struggles of Grady Sizemore and several other Indians. Can Paul Hoynes get the word out?

Hey, Hoynsie: Please talk to Manny Acta. The Indians' hitters are standing too close to the plate. Asdrubal Cabrera has moved closer. So has Grady Sizemore and Shin-Soo Choo. Carlos Santana is so close to the plate he can't even swing at an inside strike. -- Geoffrey Lee, Strongsville

Hey, Geoffrey: I'll pass it along.

Hey, Hoynsie: I've been very impressed with right-hander Vinnie Pestano. Do you expect him to get more leveraged opportunities? -- Dan Lawrence, Davis, Ohio

Hey, Dan: When you use a work like "leveraged" it makes me think you work in the Tribe's front office. Pestano has been pitching in key situations all year. He's having a great rookie year.

Hey, Hoynsie: Considering their production, salaries and future salaries, can you give one good reason why Fausto Carmona, Grady Sizemore, Travis Hafner and Shin-Soo Choo would be Indians beyond this season? -- Bill Flowers, Colorado

Hey, Bill: Since you asked, here goes: Carmona will make $7 million next year. Not bad for a starting pitcher, working on his second straight 200-inning season.

Sizemore has a club option worth $9 million in 2012. If he can rebound and play like he did when he first came off the disabled list in April, he's a bargain.

Hafner is guaranteed $13 million next year. He's not going anywhere.

Choo is having an off year, but the guy from 2009 and 2010 is still there. Plus he'll be affordable.

Hey, Hoynsie: I just finished watching the Indians get blanked against the Yankees. I get sick of hearing people say "don't panic." Also, Manny Acta's answer is "every team goes through this." First, no one is panicking, but most Clevelanders can see reality and this team just cannot hit consistently. What's the answer? -- Alan Wilson, Milwaukee

Hey, Alan: I was going to ask you the same thing.

Hey, Hoynsie: Who do you think will finish higher in the final standings: the Tribe or the Twins? -- Ted Belak, Sierra Madre, Calif.

Hey, Ted: The Indians can't beat the Twins and the Twins have trouble beating anyone else but the Indians. I'm going with the Twins.

Hey, Hoynsie: Back in 2007, the Indians had no problem sending Cliff Lee back to the minors. Do you see that happening with Fausto Carmona? -- Barry Elliott, Jackson Center

Hey, Barry: No, because Carmona is out of options. Lee had options available so he could be sent down.

Hey, Hoynsie: We have been hearing for years that the Indians will spend money and make trades when they are ready to compete. They are tied for first place yet there has not been one significant move to bolster the roster. Is this because even the front office believes this year's start was an aberration and the team doesn't really have the horses to compete yet? -- Patrick Kenney, North Tonawanda, N.Y.

Hey, Patrick: You hit the nail on the head. For the Indians to make a big stretch-drive addition, this team needs to stop bailing and start sailing again.

Hey, Hoynsie: I don't expect you to name names, but are any pitchers suspected of scuffing or wetting the ball these days? It would seem hard because they throw out any ball in the dirt. -- Jim Claeys, Cuyahoga Falls

Hey, Jim: I haven't seen any fingernail files fly out of pitcher's back pockets lately, but I'm sure the dark arts are still practiced.

One former Indians catcher used to get around the fact that most balls are thrown out of a game once they touch the playing surface, by scuffing the ball just handed to him by the umpire on his shin guard before throwing it to the pitcher.

One more thing: it's not easy to throw a scuffed ball. It takes practice.

Hey, Hoynsie: Is there any chance that the Indians will make a play for Prince Fielder this winter in free agency? -- Zachary Hitchcock, Ft. Campbell, Ky.

Hey, Zachary: I can't say no loud enough or long enough to answer your question.

Hey, Hoynsie: Is there an issue between Carlos Santana and certain Tribe pitchers? It seems like there are a lot of animated mound conversations when he's behind the plate. It's interesting that Carlos Carrasco's performance has improved with Lou Marson catching. -- Steve Cornelius, Avon Lake

Hey, Steve: When a runner gets on second base, it seems like Santana spends a lot of time going to the mound to change signs. As for Carrasco and Marson, remember they came up through the Phillies' system together. Marson has caught him for a long time.

Hey, Hoynsie: The Tribe's tailspin seems roughly to have commenced with Travis Hafner's latest stint on the disabled list. Statistically, how important historically has a healthy Hafner been to the Indians' success? -- Bob Beeson, Fort Myers, Fla.

Hey, Bob: The Indians have been brutal since Hafner injured his oblique muscle on May 18 during batting practice. One man does not a lineup make, but the last time Hafner played a full season, the Indians won the AL Central and came within one victory of reaching the World Series in 2007.

Hey, Hoynsie: How do you feel about the Indians picking up Scott Kazmir? -- Mark W., Berea.

Hey, Mark: I'm running a high-grade fever and calling 911.

-- Hoynsie

An old friend's future plans and the looming draft dominate this week's mailbag.

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, The Plain DealerZydrunas Ilgauskas' NBA career may be at an end, and the former Cavaliers standout is also apparently cutting his ties to Cleveland by selling his home.

Hey, Mary: Z's home in Avon Lake just came up for sale. Does this mean he will be playing in Miami again next season? Thanks. -- Bruce Clarke, Avon Lake

Hey, Bruce: I've seen the sign, too. I don't think Zydrunas Ilgauskas knows what he will do next season. He has a player option to stay with the Heat, but I wouldn't be surprised to hear that he's retiring. I don't think he plans to be back in Northeast Ohio any time soon.

Hey, Mary: I am really curious about the Cavs' trade exception. They asked for an extension and haven't received word yet, but are they shopping it around? I hear all these rumors about Danny Granger and Andre Iguodala going here and there, and I admit I wish the Cavs would look for a wing like either of them. -- Chris Zanon, Canton

Hey, Chris: Rest assured that the Cavs are trying hard to use that trade exception. Not sure Granger is on their radar but I do think Iguodala could be someone they're interested in.

Hey, Mary: Since Marshon Brooks sat out his workout with the Cavs, will that affect the decision of the Cavs? Has there been any clues of the Cavs taking Brooks if they acquire another mid-first rounder? -- Eric Karaba, North Ridgeville

Hey, Eric: I don't sense that the Cavs have much interest in Brooks. I'm not sure how much his missing his workout because of injury has to do with that.

Hey, Mary: I don't understand why the Cavs just don't stand pat and see how the draft goes. Minnesota really doesn't need Derrick Williams, so I can see them taking Kanter and then Utah doesn't need Williams and they're very interested in Knight. So it's possible Williams can fall to No. 4. Why do we insist on moving up? -- Vinny, Euclid

Hey, Vinny: I don't see anything wrong with trying to improve their draft position, especially if they'd be able to get the top two players in the draft. You could be right, but you might be wrong about Minnesota and Utah. If the Cavs can take those picks out of the equation, why not do it?

Hey, Mary: Where are your tweets? I use to use them as an inside to what is going on with the Cavs. They were the first place that I would check. Very disappointed. Even if you are guessing or stating your personal opinions, I would like to hear from you everyday. -- Ro Chapman, Port Clinton

Hey, Ro: Wow, everybody gets a day off or vacation, don't they? Not promising every day, but when there's news and I'm working, I will tweet it.

Hey, Mary: With the NBA draft looming, I would love to see the Cavs get the first, second and fourth picks. Since Minnesota has such a young team, what if we offered them any four Cavs for the second pick excluding Davis, Varejao and Hickson? I would think adding Jamison, Sessions, Parker and a backup big man would be attractive for them. We take Irving, Derrick Williams and Kanter then look to shore up small forward in second round. Am I dreaming? -- Glen, North Royalton

Hey, Glen: Really? You think adding a couple of 35-year-old guys and a point guard they traded to Cleveland last summer would be attractive to Minnesota? I don't think the Wolves would share that opinion. I'm afraid you're dreaming. If the Cavs can somehow pry away the No. 2 pick from Minnesota, it almost certainly will cost them the No. 4 pick.

Hey, Mary: Since [some in the Miami organization] may be upset with LeBron ... is it possible the Cavs could trade back for him? The Heat need a point guard, so the Cavs could send them Baron Davis, the No. 1 overall pick, a future young center in Anderson Varejao, Samardo Samuels, a new first-aid kit and some of the old Cleveland Rockers basketballs in hopes of bringing in a new women's team and LeBron? -- Owen, Berea

Hey, Owen: You're kidding, right? On the way-off chance you're not, Heat couldn't fit in Davis et al under the salary cap in its current configuration.

Hey, Mary: Do you think there is any chance Cavs draft Williams first and then trade him for another top-10 pick and a player? For example, drafting him and then trading to Washington for McGee and the sixth pick. We could walk away with three potential starters (PG at 4, SF/SG at 6 and McGee.) The other idea is picking Williams and then, assuming Williams is a PF, trade Hickson for a top 10 pick, getting Leonard or Burks for Hickson. Not sure if teams value Hickson that high, but many feel it is a weak draft. Bigger question: Should the Cavs try to move Hickson if they do draft Williams or do the Cavs feel Williams can play SF? Can Hickson coexist with Williams? -- Jay

Hey, Jay: I think any and all options are on the table, but if the Cavs trade away the No. 1 pick or a player who was the No. 1 pick, they're going to have to get an All-Star caliber player in return. I don't think the Cavs want to trade Hickson, so if they pick Williams, they will be confident he can coexist within the existing roster. They do not see Williams as a small forward. Also, I've been told the Wizards will not trade McGee.

Hey, Mary: All the mock drafts have the Cavs taking a big with the fourth pick, but why? The Cavs have options at four and five. Why is no one talking about a SF or SG at the No. 4 spot? We have a lot of need there. I know the draft is thin for those spots, but if I was making the fourth pick I'd take Kawhi Leonard (6-7, 7-3 wingspan, a rebounding machine). Another option, Alec Burks. I think there is a better chance to wait until the second round and then take a big (Jeremy Tyler, JaJuan Johnson, Jordan Williams, Jon Leuer) -- Jared Smith, Layton, Utah

P.S. As I [watched] the finals, I can't help but think Dan Gilbert should write another letter to LeBron James. This letter should include a thank you for saving Mr. Gilbert from wasting potentially hundreds of millions of dollars. I think LeBron [proved] he could never be that championship leader the Cavs wanted him to be. If LeBron had resigned with the Cavs, we are seeing what Cleveland would have been, a great regular-season team, but led by someone who is not really a leader and can't get the job done.

The only way Cleveland could have won with James would have been to get a true leader with star ability (Shaq in his LA days, Kobe Bryant a few years ago, Tim Duncan), people who don't fold under pressure (I mean hurt their elbow in the playoffs). So now that I realize we are rid of LeBron, I hope for a bright future.

Hey, Jared: You answered your own question -- the draft is thin at SF and SG -- and No. 4 is too high for the players you mentioned. I do think the Cavs are examining moving down and would consider those players later in the draft, but they're going to have to acquire a great player or multiple picks to do so. As for Dan Gilbert writing another letter, I think his pen pal days are over.

-- Mary

McIlroy moved closer to his first major Saturday at Congressional by stretching his lead for the third straight day with a 3-under 68 to set the 54-hole record at the U.S. Open.

AP Photo | MATT SLOCUMRory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, reacts after making his birdie putt on the 11th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open.

BETHESDA, Md. — With each remarkable round, with each record-setting performance, Rory McIlroy is making that Masters debacle seem like a distant memory.

A U.S. Open title could erase it altogether.

McIlroy moved closer to his first major Saturday at Congressional by stretching his lead for the third straight day with a 3-under 68 to set the 54-hole record at the U.S. Open — a mind-boggling 14-under 199 — and build an eight-shot lead going into the final round.

That's twice the size of his lead going into the last day at Augusta National.

And this time, the 22-year-old Northern Irishman says he has learned from his mistakes.

"At Augusta, it was all a little bit new to me, going into the final round with the lead," he said. "I didn't know whether to be defensive, aggressive, go for it, not go for it. But now, I know what I need to do, which is a great thing to have. I have a clear mind going out there tomorrow, and I just need to stick to my game plan."

This time, history is on his side.

No one has ever blown more than a five-shot lead at the U.S. Open. No has ever lost any major when leading by more than six shots going into the final round. And over three days on a rain-softened course, no one looks to be close to McIlroy.

"It's just phenomenal," defending champion Graeme McDowell said. "You run out of superlatives to describe what he's doing this week. He's decimating a field."

For those curious whether he would crumble, as McIlroy did in the final round at the Masters when he lost a four-stroke lead and shot 80, he answered with a combination of smart play early and aggressive shots when he found his rhythm.

His only bogey came from a shot that was about 5 feet too long and tumbled into a back bunker on the par-3 10th. On the next hole, facing one of the most daunting shots on the course from deep rough, he hit a 7-iron that covered the flag and settled 18 feet away. McIlroy pumped his fist when he made the birdie putt. It was a knockout punch to everyone else.

When he walked off the 18th green with a par, he was eight shots clear of Y.E. Yang and one round away from his first major.

"I wanted to catch up a little bit," Yang said. "But at the same time, the player with the better shot, with the better putt, with the better composure is leading right now. So I have no regrets. Right now, the better player is leading.

"I think it's actually a race for second place right now."

His performance has been so inspiring that comparisons to Tiger Woods' record-setting romp at Pebble Beach in 2000 gave way to questions whether McIlroy ultimately would be the one to challenge Jack Nicklaus and his 18 majors.

"What is he, 22 years old? If you are going to talk about someone challenging Jack's record, there's your man," fellow Irishman Padraig Harrington said. "Winning majors at 22 with his talent, he would have 20 more years ... where he could be competitive. It would give him a great chance."

McIlroy, perhaps still wary of what happened at Augusta, is not ready to celebrate.

"Paddy, Paddy, Paddy," he said quietly as he shook his head and smiled. "I'm still looking for my first one. I've put myself in a great position to do that tomorrow, and then we'll see what happens from there. It's nice to have all these complimentary things said about you, but until you actually do these things, they don't mean anything."

With more rain overnight and cloud cover through the third round, scores resembled a regular PGA Tour event instead of a major championship designed to be the toughest exam golf has to offer.

There were 26 rounds under par, the most ever for the third round of a U.S. Open.

Lee Westwood and Jason Day provided the early challenge — if it could even be called that — with rounds of 65. Webb Simpson, who narrowly made the cut, was among the first out and shot 66.

"It's not a true U.S. Open test out there, to be honest," McDowell said. "There were some tough pins out there, no doubt. I'd like to see it tougher than it was. That's the weather — you can't control that. Take nothing away from him. Rory is doing a phenomenal job out there."

Woods was the only player under par when he built his 10-shot lead at Pebble Beach. There were 20 players under par through three rounds at Congressional. But soft conditions tend to make it easier on everyone, and McIlroy has been the best all week in any condition.

The USGA made no apologies for the low scores, attributing that to the weather — and to McIlroy, the star of this U.S. Open.

"If he wasn't in the field, we'd be talking about a pretty tight U.S. Open," said Jeff Hall, part of the team setting up the golf course. "Rory is just obviously playing at a level that's a bit above everybody else this week. There certainly are a number of birdies being made, but some folks are not finding it quite as easy as others."

About the only drama Saturday, even after McIlroy reached 14-under par, was whether he also would break Woods' record 10-shot lead through 54 holes at a U.S. Open. McIlroy had a nine-shot lead, but failed to birdie the par-5 16th and Yang added two late birdies.

Yang wound up with 70 and will be in the last group with McIlroy again. Westwood, Day and Robert Garrigus (68) were at 5-under 208.

"It definitely wasn't as easy as it was the first couple of days," McIlroy said. "I knew that I was going to feel a little bit of pressure and a little bit of nerves, and it took me a few holes to get into the round."

If there was a turning point, it might have come on the third hole.

McIlroy pushed his tee shot into the rough, and a tree blocked a clear shot at the green. Studying his options with caddie J.P. Fitzgerald, McIlroy pointed to a gap, then backed off and reached for a wedge to pitch back into the fairway. His third shot stopped 3 feet from the cup for a par, and he was on his way.

"That gave me a little bit of momentum," McIlroy said. "I sort of found my rhythm quite quickly after that."

Day played the opening three rounds with McIlroy at the Masters, and knew what he was capable of doing. The Australian still gave it his best shot, shooting a 32 on the tougher back nine, finishing with a rare birdie on the 18th.

All that, and he was still nine shots behind.

"The way he's playing out there, it's almost Tigeresque," Day said. "It's unbelievable how good he's playing. Obviously, to have the lead that he has in the U.S. Open is pretty ridiculous, and at such a young age. The next generation is starting to kick up now, and he's the guy that's leading it."

Westwood, considered the best player without a major, wasn't ready to concede even as McIlroy was passing his first big test.

"He had a big lead in a major and didn't deal with it before," Westwood said. "There's pressure on him with regards to that. So we'll see. All I can do is control my game and try and shoot as low a score as possible for me."

Cinesport video: U.S. Open Round 3

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The NBA draft has served as a turning point, good and bad, at one time or another for every one of the league's teams.

View full sizeAP photoThere haven't been many NBA drafts that went as well for the Cavaliers as their 1986 effort, which landed Brad Daugherty in the first round.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The NBA draft has served as a turning point, good and bad, at one time or another for every one of the league's teams.

The Cavaliers achieved some of their best seasons after taking Brad Daugherty with the first pick in the 1986 draft, and reached new heights with the 2003 No. 1, LeBron James.

On the other hand, the selection of Chuckie Williams in 1976, with players such as Alex English and Dennis Johnson available, did nothing to bolster a Cavaliers' team which had just advanced to the Eastern Conference finals and would have to wait 16 years to return.

Following is an analysis of the Cavaliers' first-round draft history. The picks are graded, based on what overall pick the player was, the talent available in the draft and the player's value to the Cavaliers -- including eventual trade value. Barring a trade, two players will be added to the list on Thursday, when the Cavaliers make a pair of first-round picks: the first and fourth selections overall. Because of trades, the Cavaliers had no first-round picks in 1977, 1979, 1981, 1990, 1992, 1994, 1998, 2005, 2007 and 2010.

1970: John Johnson

Seventh pick, 6-7 forward, Iowa.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 15.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 4.5 apg.

Grade: B+. Complete yet underrated player who later helped Seattle win a championship.

1971: Austin Carr

First overall pick, 6-4 guard, Notre Dame.

As a Cavalier: 9 seasons, 16.2 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.9 apg.

Grade: A-. Knee injury in fourth season sidetracked potential Hall of Fame career, shortening his minutes on the court and robbing him of some explosiveness.

Video of the 1971 draft and a young Austin Carr

1972: Dwight Davis

Third, 6-8 forward, Houston.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 10.5 ppg, 7.1 rpg.

Grade: C. A talent-thin draft, although Milwaukee took (but couldn't sign) ABA star Julius Erving with 12th pick.

1973: Jim Brewer

Second, 6-9 forward, Minnesota.

As a Cavalier: 6 seasons, 7.5 ppg, 7.7 rpg.

Grade: C. Standout defender, rebounder was one of top big men in a poor draft crop.

1974: Campy Russell

Eighth, 6-8 forward, Michigan.

As a Cavalier: 6-plus seasons, 16.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.8 apg.

Grade: B+. One of the most gifted and versatile offensive players in team history.

1975: John Lambert

15th, 6-10 forward-center, USC.

As a Cavalier: 5-plus seasons, 3.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg.

Grade: D-. Lloyd (soon to become World B.) Free, Gus Williams and Dan Roundfield were still on the board.

1976: Chuckie Williams

15th, 6-3 guard, Kansas State.

As a Cavalier: 1 season, played 65 minutes.

Grade: F. After Austin Carr's knee injury and with Dick Snyder aging, Cavs failed in attempt to bolster shooting guard spot.

1978: Mike Mitchell

15th, 6-7 forward, Auburn.

As a Cavalier: 3-plus seasons, 19.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, .495 field-goal percentage.

Grade: A. Traded by infamous owner Ted Stepien to the Spurs, he averaged 22 points in next 41/2 seasons before injury. Died of cancer on June 9.

1980: Chad Kinch

22nd, 6-4 guard, UNC-Charlotte.

As a Cavalier: 1 season, played 29 games.

Grade: F. Coach Stan Albeck left the Cavs to coach the Spurs virtually hours after making this pick.

View full sizePD file photoJohn Bagley was a valuable and versatile point guard in the 1980s for the Cavaliers.

1982: John Bagley

12th, 6-0 point guard, Boston College.

As a Cavalier: 5 seasons, 9.4 ppg, 6.2 apg.

Grade: B-. Ability to get into the paint kept him in the league for 12 years.

1983: Roy Hinson

20th, 6-9 forward, Rutgers.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 13.6 ppg, 7.3 rpg, .516 field-goal percentage.

Grade: A. Shot-blocker later traded to 76ers for 1986 first overall pick, which turned into Brad Daugherty.

1983: Stewart Granger

24th, 6-3 guard, Villanova.

As a Cavalier: 1 season, 4.5 ppg, 2.4 apg.

Grade: D. It's a guessing game at No. 24, and this guess didn't pan out.

1984: Mel Turpin

Sixth, 6-11 center, Kentucky.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 10.4 ppg, 5.4 ppg, .516 field-goal percentage.

Grade: D+. Cavs took Tim McCormick at No. 12, then dealt him and more for Turpin, who was skilled but never in good playing shape.

1985: Keith Lee

11th, 6-10 forward, Memphis State.

As a Cavalier: 2 seasons, 6.7 ppg, 4.8 ppg.

Grade: D-. Lucky Utah. Cavs were one of 12 teams (three with two picks each) to pass on John Stockton in 1984 draft; one of 12 teams to pass on Karl Malone in 1985. Cavs drafted Charles Oakley at No. 9, but sent him to Chicago for the 11th pick -- Lee -- and journeyman guard Enis Whatley.

1986: Brad Daugherty

First overall pick, 7-0 center, North Carolina.

As a Cavalier: 8 seasons, 19 ppg, 9.5 rpg, 3.7 apg, .532 field-goal percentage.

Grade: A. Had five healthy seasons after superb rookie year, and coaches named him to All-Star team all five times.

1986: Ron Harper

Eighth, 6-6 guard, Miami (Ohio).

As a Cavalier: 3+ seasons, 19.4 ppg, 5.1 apg, 2.3 spg.

Grade: A. Future teammate Michael Jordan had to smile when Harper was dealt for rights to Danny Ferry.

1987: Kevin Johnson

Seventh, 6-2 point guard, California.

As a Cavalier: Half a season, 7.3 ppg, 3.7 apg.

Grade: A. Key player in the trade to Phoenix for all-star forward Larry Nance, Johnson became one of the era's premier point guards, but Mark Price schooled him in Cavs' practices.

1988: Randolph Keys

22nd, 6-7 forward, Southern Mississippi.

As a Cavalier: 2 seasons, 90 games, 5.9 ppg.

Grade: D. Longtime search for a small forward who could score came up empty here.

1989: John Morton

25th, 6-3 point guard, Seton Hall.

As a Cavalier: 2-plus seasons, 4.8 ppg, 3 apg.

Grade: D. Couldn't approach remarkable NCAA Tourney performance as a pro.

View full sizeScott Shaw / The Plain DealerBefore he was traded in the deal that brought Shawn Kemp to Cleveland, Terrell Brandon emerged as one of the NBA's best point guards.

1991: Terrell Brandon

11th, 5-11 point guard, Oregon.

As a Cavalier: 6 seasons, 12.7 ppg, 4.9 apg.

Grade: A. Top-notch backup to all-star point guard Mark Price for four years, Brandon was an all-star in his two seasons as a Cavs starter.

1993: Chris Mills

22nd, 6-6 forward, Arizona.

As a Cavalier: 4 seasons, 12.6 ppg, 5.4 rpg.

Grade: B. Typical of the Mike Fratello-coached Cavs, he was solid but unspectacular on offense and pesky on defense.

1995: Bob Sura

17th, 6-5 guard, Florida State.

As a Cavalier: 5 seasons, 8.1 ppg, 3.7 apg.

Grade: C+. Severe ankle injury hindered his time with Cavs, but his ability to get into the paint, pass and defend resulted in long career.

1996: Vitaly Potapenko

12th, 6-10 center, Wright State.

As a Cavalier: 2-plus seasons, 6.7 ppg, 3.5 rpg.

Grade: D-. Decent role player. Kobe Bryant, picked No. 13 by Charlotte, refused to play there, and would have rejected Cleveland, too. Steve Nash, Jermaine O'Neal and Peja Stojakovic were available.

1996: Zydrunas Ilgauskas

20th, 7-3 center, Lithuania.

As a Cavalier: 14 seasons, 13.8 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 1.65 bpg.

Grade: A. Played just 111 games in first five seasons due to foot injuries, but became two-time all-star and Cavs' all-time leader in games, rebounds and blocked shots.

1997: Derek Anderson

13th, 6-5 guard, Kentucky.

As a Cavalier: 2 seasons, 11.3 ppg, 3.6 apg.

Grade: B. Concern about his fragile knees and potential contract demands prompted a trade early in his career.

1997: Brevin Knight

16th, 5-10 point guard, Stanford.

As a Cavalier: 3-plus seasons, 9 ppg, 7.6 apg, 2 spg.

Grade: B. Playmaking abilities were somewhat offset by lack of shooting range.

1999: Andre Miller

Eighth, 6-2 point guard, Utah.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 14.5 ppg, 8.2 apg, 4.2 rpg.

Grade: A. Had they not traded him, the Cavs would have won more games in the 2002-03 season, and thus likely would not have gotten LeBron James.

1999: Trajan Langdon

11th, 6-3 guard, Duke.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 5.4 ppg, .396 3-point percentage.

Grade: D. A pure shooter who couldn't free himself for an open shot.

View full sizeJoshua Gunter, The Plain DealerTrajan Langdon never got a grip on his NBA career, playing just three seasons in the league.

2000: Chris Mihm

Seventh, 7-0 center-forward, Texas.

As a Cavalier: 3-plus seasons, 7.1 ppg, 5 rpg.

Grade: D. Ability to rebound, block shots and shoot was negated by injuries and occasional lack of passion.

2001: DeSagana Diop

Eighth, 7-0 center, Oak Hill, Va., Academy.

As a Cavalier: 4 seasons, 1.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg.

Grade: F. Has made 177 free throws and about $33 million in his career. Drafted ahead of Joe Johnson, Richard Jefferson, Gerald Wallace, Tony Parker, etc.

2002: Dajuan Wagner

Sixth, 6-2 guard, Memphis.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 9.4 ppg, 1.9 apg, .365 field goal percentage.

Grade: D. Opponents quickly figured out his limited offensive repertoire, and then injuries and illness ended his career.

2003: LeBron James

First, 6-8 forward-guard, St. Vincent-St. Mary High.

As a Cavalier: 7 seasons, 27.8 ppg, 7.0 apg, 7.0 rpg.

Grade: A. Team's best-ever player.

2004: Luke Jackson

10th, 6-7 forward-guard, Oregon.

As a Cavalier: 2 seasons, 46 games, 2.7 ppg.

Grade: F+. Back injury robbed him of athleticism before his Cavs career began. Between his pick and Orlando taking Anderson Varejao at No. 30, players such as Al Jefferson and Jameer Nelson were drafted.

2006: Shannon Brown

25th, 6-4 guard, Michigan State.

As a Cavalier: 1-plus seasons, 38 games, 4.7 ppg.

Grade: B-. Limited to garbage-time experience with Cavs, but eventually dealt in a major trade before becoming a rotation player on two Lakers' title teams.

2008: J.J. Hickson

19th, 6-9 forward, North Carolina State.

As a Cavalier: 3 seasons, 9.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg.

Grade: Incomplete. Still trying to figure out parts of the game, but has a real chance to prove he should have been drafted much higher.

2009: Christian Eyenga

30th, 6-6 forward, The Congo.

As a Cavalier: 1 season, 6.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg.

Grade: Incomplete. Drafted as a project, he's shown -- ahead of schedule -- that with experience, he might be a keeper.

Carl Edwards was impressed by how hard it was to pass teammate Ricky Stenhouse Jr. as the two fought for the lead.

Associated PressCarl Edwards (60) passes teammate Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (6) with less than 10 laps remaining to win the NASCAR Nationwide Series Alliance Truck Parts 250 at Michigan international Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich., Saturday, June 18, 2011.

BROOKLYN, Mich. (AP) — Carl Edwards was impressed by how hard it was to pass teammate Ricky Stenhouse Jr. as the two fought for the lead.

After Edwards finally moved ahead, Stenhouse remained in second to give owner Jack Roush a 1-2 finish at Michigan International Speedway.

"This is coming home for me," said Roush, who has ties to Michigan dating to when he began working for Ford during the 1960s. "The fact that we've been able to have the success we've had in our backyard is really fun."

Edwards passed Stenhouse with less than 10 laps remaining Saturday to earn his fourth NASCAR Nationwide victory of the year. He had finished second in three straight Nationwide races since winning at Dover in May, but he was able to slip underneath Stenhouse and then cut in front of him before holding on to win by 1.669 seconds in the No. 60 Ford.

It was Edwards' 33rd career Nationwide victory.

"The laps kept ticking down, and I was driving harder and harder and I was not catching him," Edwards said. "His car wasn't as balanced as mine, and we were able to get by him. With 15 to go, I didn't think we were going to be able to get him."

It was Roush Fenway's record fifth series win at Michigan. After his victory, Edwards did his usual back flip, then went running into the stands to celebrate. He finished second in a Nationwide race at MIS in August and won one in 2008. He also has two Sprint Cup wins at this venue and will race in that series Sunday.

Mark Martin, seeking his 50th Nationwide win, was the leader coming out of the third and final caution on the 100th of 125 laps. Edwards and Kyle Busch quickly passed him, but Stenhouse moved to the lead not long after that.

Stenhouse led laps 104-116, but Edwards remained patient and denied Stenhouse what would have been his second win of the year.

"It was more work than I thought it was going to be," Edwards said. "I really had to drive hard. He is really getting good at this. He is going to be very tough."

Edwards, the Sprint Cup points leader, isn't eligible to earn Nationwide points. Stenhouse now leads the series standings. Elliott Sadler, eighth Saturday, is second. Reed Sorenson, the points leader entering the race, finished 11th following an early pass-through penalty for a commitment-line violation.

"I guess that is a good thing for us for sure for the championship, but it doesn't do anything for us not winning," Stenhouse said. "We are right there where we need to be, we just have to cap it off. We have to get a little bit better. I think Carl is a little better at practice, getting his car where it needs to be."

Busch, trying to match Martin's mark of 49 victories, had to settle for outlasting pole-sitter Paul Menard in a hard-fought race for third.

"We certainly won a lot of races in three years so maybe I shouldn't be in this position so fast, but yet it is a little frustrating that we're not able to get another win to tie and then another win to break," Busch said. "We've been close — seems like every week we're a solid third, fourth, fifth-place car."

Although Menard had won the pole earlier in the day, he led for only one lap. Edwards led for 62 laps, and Stenhouse led for 38.

Menard was the beneficiary of the final caution, which began on the 95th lap. Martin arrived for a pit stop moments before the yellow flag and was able to move to the front when the leaders went for pit stops during the caution, but he fell back and finished seventh.

Brad Keselowski, who edged Edwards to win in Michigan last year, led for 11 laps, the most of anyone besides Edwards and Stenhouse. Keselowski, however, fell back after a pass-through penalty for an uncontrolled tire. He finished ninth.

"That's racing," Keselowski said. "Stuff happens. It's just part of the deal."

Cinesport video: NASCAR

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Pat Shurmur's experience with the Rams bodes well for Colt McCoy and the Browns' new West Coast offense.

View full sizeAP photoA close look at how Pat Shurmur worked with rookie quarterback Sam Bradford last season reveals some hints on why Shurmur has been bullish on Colt McCoy running the West Coast offense, says Terry Pluto.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- With the solstice coming on Tuesday, there's more daylight to ponder the latest news from Northeast Ohio's pro teams.

About the Browns ...

1. I've been doing some work on how the Browns want their new West Coast offense to work. As one operative told me, "It's quarterback friendly, but the quarterback must be efficient, accurate and have timing with the receivers." That's why the Browns are thrilled about the various player workouts being run by quarterback Colt McCoy. While you can't install the offense without coaches, linemen, etc., being there -- you can have the quarterbacks and receivers working on the type of patterns that will be used.

2. Based on some research, I've learned that St. Louis had McCoy ranked as the No. 2 quarterback in the 2010 draft, behind Sam Bradford -- their top pick. The Rams coaching staff (and that includes current Browns head coach Pat Shurmur) liked McCoy because they believed he'd be very effective in the offense. That 73 percent completion rate in his last two years at Texas along with McCoy's leadership traits made him attractive.

3. His lack of size -- optimistically listed at 6-1 -- was not a major negative. The Rams' (and now the Browns') form of the West Coast offense will have the quarterback moving around the pocket and delivering quick-strike short and medium passes -- waiting for a chance to surprise the defense with a throw downfield. Shurmur definitely was impressed with McCoy when the Rams researched and interviewed him in 2010.

4. So the West Coast offense requires an accurate, precision passer. That's why it's strange when there is an ESPN story and some suggestions from fans that the Browns grab former OSU quarterback Terrelle Pryor in the supplemental draft. Why? The things this offense requires are the weakest parts of Pryor's game. As for making him a receiver, that is a long-term project -- assuming it works at all.

5. The Browns also have Seneca Wallace, who has been helping McCoy and the receivers at the second Camp Colt. Yes, Wallace is athletic, but what makes him a fit in the West Coast offense is his career 60 percent completion rate. He completed 63 percent last year.

6. Accuracy is key because receivers must be connected with passes in stride. Consider that in 2009-10, Browns QBs completed only 49 percent of their passes. McCoy was at 60 percent last season.

7. Tight end Ben Watson led the Browns with 40 catches for first downs. Then came running back Peyton Hillis (25), receiver Mohamed Massaquoi (24) and slot receiver Chansi Stuckey (21). So no receiver recorded more than 24 first downs. The Rams had three receivers with at least that many: Danny Amendola (35), Brandon Gibson (33) and Daniel Fell (24). Amendola was an undrafted 5-11 receiver from Texas Tech in 2009. He caught 43 passes as a rookie, 85 last season. The Browns believe they can find someone from their current group of receivers -- Brian Robiskie, Massaquoi or rookie Greg Little -- who can surprise and thrive in the offense.

8. In St. Louis, Shurmur's offense threw 590 passes compared to 429 runs last season. In 2009, it was 543 passes to 411 runs with a collection of Marc Bulger, Kyle Boller and Keith Null at quarterback. Steven Jackson carried the ball 330 and 324 times in the last two seasons, but the Rams rarely gave the ball to anyone else.

9. By comparison, the Browns threw 478 passes compared to 413 runs in 2010. It was 443 passes, 498 rushes in 2009. So the play calling will swing more toward passing, but the Browns believe the passes will be more successful because they are shorter. But the real advantage may be the Browns matching their quarterback to the offense.

10. But the Browns believe the West Coast offense will help the running game. In Shurmur's two years calling the plays, Steven Jackson gained 1,241 and 1,416 yards for the Rams, averaging 326 carries. Because Peyton Hillis (270 carries for 1,177 yards) takes such a beating, the Browns need Montario Hardesty to stay healthy -- and it would be wise to sign a veteran running back.

View full sizeAP photoEnes Kanter doesn't bring much experience to his lofty status in this week's NBA draft. But at 6-11, his strengths are rather apparent to all NBA observers.

About the Cavaliers ...

1. What to do with the fourth pick? It could come down to Enes Kanter or Jonas Valanciunas. The Cavs can say they are still considering what to do with No. 1, but it would be a complete shock for them to pass on Kyrie Irving. Byron Scott loves point guards, especially those who are a legitimate 6-3, as is Irving. He loves point guards who can shoot: Irving was 52 percent from the field, 46 percent on 3-pointers and 90 percent at the foul line.

2. Scouts can complain that Irving played only 11 games at Duke because of a toe injury, but he did score 31 in his last appearance in the NCAA tournament against Arizona. But at least they have 11 games of video to scout, along with watching some high school showcases.

3. But when it comes to the No. 4 pick, the Cavs could be truly guessing because there is so little research available. As of now, it's expected the first three picks will be Irving (Cavs), Derrick Williams (Minnesota) and Brandon Knight (Utah). Supposedly, the next three best players are Jan Vesely, Kanter and Valanciunas. No one is sure in what order.

4. Kanter may be the safest bet because he has no European contract ties. He has spent the last year attending some classes and working out with Kentucky's scout team during practice. Enrolled at the school, he was ruled ineligible by the NCAA because he was paid when playing in Turkey. He is a bullish 6-11, 260 pounds. One scout compared him to Vitaly Potapenko, others say he will be better than that. But his experience is so limited and he's only 19.

5. The Cavs have recently become intrigued with Valanciunas, who is 7-foot and also 19. He also may have contract problems in Europe, meaning it's possible he won't be able to play this season. Some have compared him to a young Pau Gasol.

6. ESPN's Fran Fraschilla wrote: "If Valanciunas plays in the NBA this coming season, he will be one of the youngest players in the league at 19. However, with a potential lockout looming, it would not surprise me if the young Lithuanian spends another year honing his skills in Europe. While it won't make fans of the team that drafts him happy, it may be the best way for him to mirror what Gasol did in his rookie season."

7. Vesely is the most experienced and athletic of the three Europeans. He's 6-11, 220 pounds and extremely athletic. There are a lot of dunking highlights on the Web. He shot only 54 percent from the foul line, so don't be fooled by those videos of him making jumpers. The outside shot is a significant work in progress.

8. Fraschilla wrote: "The comparisons to [Andrei] Kirilenko are logical because both are athletic European forwards who play with great energy but are under-skilled offensively. ... But if Vesely wants to swing for the fences, the best-case scenario would be for him to emulate the career of Shawn Marion. ... That might be asking an awful lot of Vesely right now. But in a draft devoid of potential stars, finding a spot in an NBA team's rotation would be a good first step."

9. If the Cavs are faced with a choice between the two centers and Vesely, I have no clue what they should do. That's also why they are working so hard to try and secure the No. 2 pick (for Williams), or perhaps even move back a bit -- and add a veteran as part of a trade.

10. The two wing players who have intrigued teams are Alec Burks and Klay Thompson, but neither are expected to go as high as No. 4. But if the Cavs move back, they could become a factor. My dream for the Cavs is they end up flopping picks with Minnesota (which supposedly likes Kanter), the Cavs adding Williams in exchange for the No. 4 pick and some other players. Perhaps the Cavs take a bad contract from Minnesota (using their $14 million exception) to help the deal work.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerFausto Carmona's status in the Indians' starting rotation has become uncertain due to his struggles and the success of some of the Tribe's minor-league arms.

About the Indians ...

1. The Indians believe Jeanmar Gomez and perhaps Zach McAllister are ready to help their rotation. The problem is figuring out who loses a spot. Fausto Carmona has been the worst of the five. His 5.79 ERA is the highest of any AL regular starter, according to ESPN.com. He ranks 53rd. Mitch Talbot (5.02) is 50th. It seems one of these guys could be put in long relief soon unless they find some consistency. Both are out of minor-league options.

2. In addition to having the highest ERA of any AL starter, Carmona also has allowed the highest rate (40 percent) of his baserunners to score. He also has the highest home-run rate, allowing 14 homers in 91 2/3 innings, compared to 17 in 210 innings in 2010. Even in his worst seasons (2008 and 2009), Carmona never allowed homers at such an alarming rate. While control often was a problem in 2008-09, now it's simply being hit hard. His velocity has not dropped much. But his pitches are often high and flat in the strike zone.

3. Of the 53 AL starters, Justin Masterson (3.16) is the top Indian at No. 16. Then comes Josh Tomlin (3.93) at 29 and Carlos Carrasco (4.09) at 32. The average AL starter has a 3.96 ERA. The Tribe's starters are at 4.33, ranking 12th out of 14 teams. At Class AAA, Gomez is 6-1 with a 2.28 ERA and has allowed only one earned run in each of his last three starts.

4. Glad to see the Tribe didn't return Cord Phelps to Columbus when Travis Hafner returned. He's off to a slow start, but the rookie second baseman deserves a chance to stick around for more than few weeks. The Indians also believe that Orlando Cabrera will be more effective if he doesn't play 6-7 games a week, so it makes sense to pair him with Phelps.

5. With Matt LaPorta out because of a sprained ankle, I just wish I could feel more positive about the 26 year old. He's hitting .242 (10th among AL first basemen) with eight homers (ninth), 31 RBI (seventh) and a .723 OPS (eighth). It's not awful in a season in which hitting is down, but the Indians should expect more from a guy who led all of the minors in homers when acquired (along with Michael Brantley) in the CC Sabathia deal of July 7, 2008.

6. The Indians need a strong bat from the right side, but LaPorta is .182 (7-of-44) vs. lefties with only one homer. By contrast, he's at .260 with seven homers in 154 at bats vs. righties. His defense is good digging out throws in the dirt and on reaction plays with hard-hit balls -- but there are major problems on bunts and other plays where he seems confused.

7. This is not writing off LaPorta. The Indians have no other first basemen at the top levels of the minors. It's just a wish that he showed more for them to write him into the long-range plans. It is a chance to Travis Buck to show if he can help.

8. Meanwhile, Vinnie Pestano has been incredible. The 1.44 ERA is only part of it. Right-handers are batting .115 (6-of-52), lefties .188. In 25 innings, he has walked 10, allowed 12 hits and fanned 32. And you have to love how he runs to the mound from the bullpen.